Pat will look at the complex relationship between plants and animals. Pat is a trained adult educator, and recently retired as a botanical guide and "Ambassador" for the ANBG.

This talk will cover some of the projects at the National Seed Bank, including testing the viability of seed in storage, the exchange of plant knowledge with the Mala women rangers at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, and the germination of Leionema and Phebalium species.

Leo, recently retired from CSIRO, appreciates how pivotal it was for him to see certain species of bird in the wild in Australia and South America and the happy pursuit of a career studying evolution of birds, especially in these countries.

Stephen Hunter, the Photographic Group’s publicity officer, will talk about planning for overseas travel from a photographer’s perspective. He will illustrate his talk with stories and images from visits to Uzbekistan, Italy, India, Peru, Ecuador (Galapagos Islands and Amazon Basin), and the wilds of Patagonia. Stephen will also bring along examples of the photo books he has compiled on his travels as well as the gear he uses to transport photographic equipment.

In its 100 years Mt Stromlo has been at the forefront of astronomical discoveries, but much of its history has remained hidden. Brad, from ANU, will talk about its past and how it is shaping the future of astronomy and Canberra, and how it is helping to combat light pollution.

Kristy, from the ACT Office of Nature Conservation, describes a project to improve restoration through development of spatial planning tools, on-ground work at three key sites, and engaging the Ngunnawal community in Healing Country.