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DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260226T080000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260226T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T013949Z
UID:10001444-1772092800-1772125200@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Chris Mobbs – Bragg Street Park\, Hackett: Increasing biodiversity through water harvesting
DESCRIPTION:Chris Mobbs\, Convenor Bragg Street Park Volunteers\, describes solving a drainage problem and creating an urban oasis with a great increase in the diversity of native plants. \nResidents near a neighbourhood park in Hackett came together to solve a drainage problem. They ended up creating an urban oasis. Their project was funded with a Nature in the City grant in 2021. \nIt is now 4 years since the swales were built\, and they have been very successful in preventing minor flooding in gardens downhill from the park. There have also been great results in increasing the diversity of native plants in the park – many have been planted by the park volunteers\, but many self-seeding eucalypts have grown up in the swales. \nOur volunteer group was very pleased when the ACT Government used our park as a case study in the recently released Stormwater Management for Community Groups guidelines: https://www.act.gov.au/open/stormwater-management-for-community-groups. \nI am pleased that the photo on the cover of these guidelines is one of the swales in our park\, and there are more details on page 25.  As well as the swales successfully capturing water and the great growth of native plants\, we had 5 species of frogs move into the park in the spring of 2023 and 2024. And in spring 2023\, a lovely bearded dragon moved into the park. And last spring\, we counted 4 smaller ones – we think these may have been offspring from the first dragon. \nChris Mobbs has a Bachelor’s in Applied Science (1976) from the then Canberra College of Advanced Education (now Uni of Canberra).  My first job was an interpretation ranger (1976-84) with the then Conservation and Agriculture department (later renamed the ACT Parks and Conservation Service). My activities included taking people on day and night-time walks through Canberra’s nature reserves like Tidbinbilla\, Black Mt\, Mt Taylor\, Mt Ainslie\, and Majura\, and preparing brochures about Canberra’s wildlife. In 1983-84\, I co-hosted\, with Mike Braysher\, the Wildlife Biologist\, a 30-minute segment called Canberra Bush and Fauna once every 3 weeks on ABC local radio morning program (then known as ABC 2CN but today is ABC 666).  From 1984-96\, I worked in the Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service Education Section and then helped manage programs including Save the Bush\, One Billion Trees\, and the Waterwatch program. From 2000-07\, I worked in the Chemical management program of the Federal Environment department before moving to energy efficiency programs until I retired in early 2017. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; several talks are booked out very quickly. Bookings can be made about 30 days in advance until Wednesday night before the talk.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/chris-mobbs-bragg-street-park-hackett-increasing-biodiversity-through-water-harvesting/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Bragg-Street-Park_360wide-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260227T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260227T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260315T095702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260315T095702Z
UID:10001453-1772186400-1772193600@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Friends of ANBG Photographic Group Monthly Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The first regular Photographic Group meeting of the new year takes place on Friday 27 February at 10.00am in the Theatrette. \nThe meeting will kick off 2026 with an expansive ‘show and tell’ session. \nBring up to 12 images on a thumb drive to share with fellow members. Your favourite images of nature and wildlife taken over the past year or so are encouraged. The subject does not have to be in the Gardens. It’s a chance to show off your development as a photographer. \nThe meeting will also be an opportunity to hear about forthcoming Photographic Group activities.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/friends-of-anbg-photographic-group-monthly-meeting-2/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Welcome-in-the-Theatrette_360wide.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends Photographic Group":MAILTO:photo@friendsanbg.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260305T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260305T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T013547Z
UID:10001427-1772713800-1772717400@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Bernadette Duncan ‘Indigenous plant names and tea tasting’
DESCRIPTION:Kamilaroi woman Bernadette Duncan works with her community bringing people to language and knowledge through local teas. Taste the teas as Bernadette leads a talk about using native plants for teas and bush medicine. \nBiography \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; several talks are booked out very quickly. Bookings can be made about 30 days in advance until Wednesday night before the talk. \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DHLQI
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/bernadette-duncan-indigenous-plant-names-and-tea-tasting/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Welcome-in-the-Theatrette_360wide.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260307T083000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260307T113000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260315T095913Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260315T095913Z
UID:10001454-1772872200-1772883000@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Black Mountain Weeding Work Party
DESCRIPTION:We look forward to seeing you at our next weeding work party and morning tea: \nDate: Saturday\, 7 March 2026\, 8:30 to 11:30am\nMeet:  Bottom row of Southern Carpark\, Australian National Botanic Gardens (ANBG). When your come through main gate to ANBG\, turn left immediately and park in this bottom row. If you are not already a member of the Friends of ANBG\, a temporary parking permit will be arranged for you.\nLook for banners. \nWear:  HAT\, sunscreen\, long-sleeved shirt\, long pants\, gloves\, stout shoes. \nWe shall break for delicious morning tea at about 10:00am \nPlease book: if you are planning to come\, please let us know by using this booking link: https://www.trybooking.com/DIFKS\nThis helps us to let you know if arrangements need to change at the last minute (for example\, adverse weather conditions). \nIf you need further information\, please contact Linda by phone 0437 298 711.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/black-mountain-weeding-work-party-3/
LOCATION:Lower level ANBG Carpark\, Clunies Ross Street\, Acton\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Weeding
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Weeding%20Work%20Party_360wide_0.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260308T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260314T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T232758Z
UID:10001428-1772967600-1773496800@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Women Botanists\, Balancing the Scale Themed Walks
DESCRIPTION:To mark International Women’s Day on March 8th\, this walk celebrates women in botany – the pioneering female researchers\, scientists\, artists and writers who contributed to the study of plants. Walking through the Gardens we will look at species that reference woman’s contribution to our knowledge and understanding of plants. \nThese free one-hour guided walks commence at 11am and 2pm each day for the week Sunday 8 March to Saturday 14 March. \nMeet at the clock near the café bridge. \nNo booking required for individuals\, but groups of more than six people should contact walks@friendsanbg.org.au a week before the planned walk.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/women-botanists-balancing-the-scale-themed-walks/
LOCATION:Clock near the bridge\, ANBG\, Australian National Botanic Gardens\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2600\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Walk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ANBG-Walk-Group-scaled-e1723612517617.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Australian National Botanic Gardens":MAILTO:test@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260312T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260312T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T222132Z
UID:10001445-1773318600-1773322200@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Professor Eric Warrant 'The art of coming far with a tiny brain: The remarkable navigational abilities of the Australian Bogong moth'
DESCRIPTION:Some migratory insects can travel thousands of kilometres to a very specific place they have never been to before. But how do they know the direction to fly and how do they know when they have arrived? \nIn his talk\, Eric will reveal how the nocturnal Bogong Moth\, Agrotis infusa – uses the Earth’s magnetic field\, the starry night sky and highly specific odours to fly 1000 kilometres to remote caves in the Australian Alps where they spend the summer. \nBiography\nProfessor Eric Warrant is an Australian scientist who is Professor of Zoology at the University of Lund in Sweden. He is a Visiting Fellow at the Research School of Biology at the ANU\, an Adjunct Professor at Adelaide University and is a Corresponding Member of the Australian Academy of Science. Eric studies vision and visual navigation in nocturnal and deep-sea animals\, with his most recent work centred on the sensory basis of long- distance migration in the Bogong Moth. \nBooking link: https://www.trybooking.com/DJKKG \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nBooking link: https://www.trybooking.com/DJKKG \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/kim-pullen-more-treasures-insects-in-fens-and-bogs/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Bogong-Moth-Peter-Caley-provided-20230210-cropped_360wide.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260314T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260314T113000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013605Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260315T042655Z
UID:10001429-1773478800-1773487800@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Growing Friends Autumn 2026 Native Plant Sale
DESCRIPTION:Save the date – it’s happening on Saturday\, 14 March 2026 in the Banksia Centre car park. The sale runs from 9:00-11.30 am but typically sells out by 10.00 am. Don’t be late! \nPlants are generally $6 or $10 per pot (unless otherwise indicated) and purchase is by card only. \nWith over 1000 plants for sale\, and about a hundred native species and cultivars\, there is a plant for every spot in your garden. We have old favourites like Correa ‘Dusky Bells’ and ‘Lemon Twist’\, and the ever-popular yellow Straw Flower (Xerochrysum bracteatum). \nOther popular plants include Brachyscomes\, Banksias\, Callistemons\, Correas\, Croweas\, Grevilleas\, Hakeas\, Leptospermums\, Pimeleas\, Prostantheras\, Telopeas\, and Westringias. Those looking for ACT plants will be tempted by the Alpine Daisy Bush (Olearia algida) and the dainty Chamomile Sunray (Rhodanthe anthemoides). \nThese plants grow in Canberra’s challenging climate of low rainfall\, hot summers and frosty winters. Growing these natives is one of the best ways to provide a better environment for local wildlife\, especially for birds and insects. See the plant description list (PDF\, 612 KB). \nPlants are propagated by the Growing Friends from cuttings or seeds sourced within the ANBG with the support of ANBG staff. All proceeds from the sale go to the Friends to support the Gardens. \nProspective buyers are encouraged to bring their own carry bags and boxes. \nGrowers from the Australian Native Plants Society Canberra will be holding a separate sale on Saturday 21 March in the Southern car park.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/growing-friends-autumn-2026-native-plant-sale/
LOCATION:Banksia Centre Car Park\, Australian National Botanic Gardens\, Canberra\, Australian Capital Territory\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Plant Sale
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Telopea_speciosissima.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260319T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260319T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013650Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T014524Z
UID:10001430-1773923400-1773927000@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Don Fletcher 'Goannas in the Canberra region and what is needed to conserve and restore them'
DESCRIPTION:Don will provide an introduction to goannas\, particularly the local species.  He’ll look at what local research is underway and what we need to do to conserve goannas for the future. \nBiography\nDon Fletcher is a retired ecologist leading the ‘National Parks Association Goanna Project’ which is a citizen science investigation of local goanna species\, mainly Rosenberg’s Goanna (Varanus rosenbergi)\, which is sometimes called the Heath Monitor. \nBooking Link: https://www.trybooking.com/DJUMO \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/kristie-gould-conserving-canberra-healing-country-through-restoration/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Naas-goanna-IMG_7672-rdcd-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260322T084000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260322T223000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260314T082934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260314T082934Z
UID:10001447-1774168800-1774218600@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Cameras and Cafe Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join members of the Photographic Group for a stimulating and friendly photo walk. \nAs usual\, be at the ANBG bus stop at 8.40am to take advantage of the cooler hours. Participants can choose to move around the Gardens as a group or head off with their camera individually. \nWe reconvene for a snack and beverage at Pollen Cafe at around 10.30 am. \nAt least one person from the Friends of ANBG Photographic Group Committee will be there to get things started\, orchestrate introductions and provide help if needed. All levels of photographic knowledge and equipment are welcome.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/cameras-and-cafe-walk-4/
LOCATION:ANBG Bus Stop\, Australian National Botanic Gardens\, Canberra\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Walk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/PhotographicGroup1_0.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends Photographic Group":MAILTO:photo@friendsanbg.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260326T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260326T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T014455Z
UID:10001431-1774528200-1774531800@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Lori Gould ‘Movement and behaviour of Latham’s Snipe at Jerrabomberra Wetlands: the results are in’
DESCRIPTION:Lori\, will present the findings of the tracking research she has carried out over the past 3 years at Jerrabomberra Wetlands as part of the Lathams Snipe Project. They provide an exciting insight into the behaviour of Snipe during their non-breeding season in Canberra. \nBiography\nLori runs an environmental planning and restoration business–Environmental Restoration Design and Planning (ERDP)–which specialises in natural resource management\, particularly landscape rehabilitation\, assessment\, planning\, monitoring and community engagement. Lori is a riparian restoration specialist and over the past 25+ years has managed dozens of large-scale projects (both riparian and terrestrial). Prior to ERDP\, Lori ran consulting company GrassRoots Environmental from which ERDP evolved. Lori also developed community programs at the Jerrabomberra Wetlands for 5 years\, was a Senior Project Manager for 16 years with Greening Australia\, specialising in riparian and catchment management programs to improve water quality and biodiversity in rural Australia and before this a Park Ranger with ACT Parks and Conservation Service for 6 years. \nLori is a PhD candidate studying migratory birds\, holds a Master’s Degree in Integrated Water Management\, a Post Graduate Certificate in River Restoration and Management\, an Environmental Science Degree and Associate Diploma in Animal Science. Lori is also a Fellow of the Peter Cullen Trust. \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DHLQS \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/lori-gould-movement-and-behaviour-of-lathams-snipe-at-jerrabomberra-wetlands-the-results-are-in/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Gould-Snipe-in-habitat-17-Feb-2025-Raw-Shorty.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260327T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260327T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260314T083159Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260314T083159Z
UID:10001448-1774605600-1774609200@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Friends Photographic Group Monthly Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The next regular meeting takes place on Friday 27 March at 10am in the Theatrette. \nThe guest presenter will be Cormac Farrell. Cormac is an environmental scientist and beekeeper\, best known as the Head Beekeeper for the Australian Parliament. He also manages several apiaries throughout Canberra\, including training apiaries\, organic orchards\, and tall rooftop apiaries. \nCormac will talk about his experiences as the head beekeeper of the Australian Parliament\, and how photographs\, video and other media have played a critical role in outreach and communication. \nHe will also touch on how the increasing popularity of native bee photography has helped move the public’s understanding of bees to move beyond honey and towards the role of pollinators in food security and the wider environment.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/friends-photographic-group-monthly-meeting/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Lecture,Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Mulvaney_photo1_360x270.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends Photographic Group":MAILTO:photo@friendsanbg.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260402T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260402T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T014602Z
UID:10001432-1775133000-1775136600@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Linda Swift ‘Australian plants as bonsai’
DESCRIPTION:Linda\, of Canberra Bonsai Society\, will give tips and techniques that bonsai artists use to create mature\, aged-looking trees. \nAbstract\nThe theme for the Australian Plants as Bonsai Exhibition at the Australian National Botanic Gardens in February 2026 is ‘The secret to looking old’. A bonsai tree grows slowly in a small pot. There are tips and techniques that bonsai artists use to create mature\, aged looking tree. Linda Swift will share these tips\, illustrated with images of bonsai trees from the exhibition. \nBiography\nLinda is the manager of Canberra Bonsai Society’s Australia Plants as Bonsai exhibition. She has led the team managing the bonsai exhibition for the Canberra Bonsai Society for the last four years. Linda joined the Canberra Bonsai Society in 2012. Her collection of bonsai has expanded since then\, with the majority of trees being Australian plants. \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DHLQV \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/linda-swift-australian-plants-as-bonsai/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Linda-Swift-Cider-Gum-260402.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260402T133000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260402T153000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260315T043808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T053702Z
UID:10001450-1775136600-1775143800@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Plant Recognition Group – Getting to know native grasses [FULLY BOOKED]
DESCRIPTION:The next Plant Recognition Group workshop will focus on local native grasses (family Poaceae) found in the ACT and the Southern Tablelands of NSW. Dr Michael Doherty will host a powerpoint presentation on grass identification and show selected samples. Binocular microscopes and aids for identification will be available for the workshop. \nWhen:  1:30-3.30 pm on Thursday 2 April 2026\, with extra time for personal practice if you wish. (Please note this is the PRG workshop scheduled for March that is now in early April to accommodate availability of the presenter and volunteers.) \nWhere: Solander Room\, Banksia Centre\, ANBG \nBookings ESSENTIAL: Please send your name and phone number to plantname@friendsanbg.org.au \nThis workshop is now fully booked.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/plant-recognition-group-getting-to-know-native-grasses/
LOCATION:Solander Studio\, Banksia Centre\, ANBG\, ANBG Clunies Ross St\, Acton\, Australian Capital Territory\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/natural-temperate-grasslands.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends Plant Recognition Group":MAILTO:plantname@friendsanbg.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260404T083000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260404T113000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260322T231701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T231701Z
UID:10001455-1775291400-1775302200@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Black Mountain Weeding Work Party
DESCRIPTION:We thank our volunteers at our March work party who removed almost 1\,000 woody weeds from the area near the Black Mountain Drive. \nWe look forward to seeing you at our next weeding work party and morning tea: \nDate: Saturday\, 4 April 2026\, 8:30 to 11:30am\nMeet:  Bottom row of Southern Carpark\, Australian National Botanic Gardens (ANBG). When your come through main gate to ANBG\, turn left immediately and park in this bottom row. If you are not already a member of the Friends of ANBG\, a temporary parking permit will be arranged for you.\nLook for banners. \nWear:  HAT\, sunscreen\, long-sleeved shirt\, long pants\, gloves\, stout shoes.\nWe shall break for delicious morning tea at about 10:00am \nPlease book: if you are planning to come\, please let us know by using this booking link: https://www.trybooking.com/DIFKT\nThis helps us to let you know if arrangements need to change at the last minute (for example\, adverse weather conditions). \nIf you need further information\, please contact me by email friendsofblackmountain@gmail.com or phone 0437 298711. \nLinda Beveridge\nFriends of Black Mountain
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/black-mountain-weeding-work-party-7/
LOCATION:Lower level ANBG Carpark\, Clunies Ross Street\, Acton\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Weeding
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WeedersAtWork_360wide.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends of Black Mountain":MAILTO:friendsofblackmountain@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260409T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260409T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260326T043709Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T043709Z
UID:10001456-1775737800-1775741400@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Pat Wright 'Who's the Smartest\, Plants or Animals?'
DESCRIPTION:Pat will look at the complex relationship between plants and animals. \nPat is a trained adult educator\, and recently retired as a botanical guide and “Ambassador” for the ANBG. \nBooking Link: https://www.trybooking.com/DHLQY \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/pat-wright-whos-the-smartest-plants-or-animals/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PatWrightReceiving25yearCertificate_360wide.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260410T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260503T163000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260406T053703Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T003736Z
UID:10001466-1775813400-1777825800@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:19th Annual Art Exhibition of the Friends' Botanic Art Group
DESCRIPTION:The 19th Annual Art Exhibition by the Friends Botanic Art Group\, entitled Wetlands\, will be in the Visitor Centre Gallery from 10 April to 3 May 2025\, from 9.30am to 4.30pm. \nIt features artworks of native flora\, with a special focus on wetland plants and habitats. The works are in a variety of media from the more traditional watercolour to linocuts and scratchboard. \nA special Members’ Preview will be held from 2pm to 4pm Thursday 9 April 2026. \nAll works are for sale. \nLudwigia peploides by Cornelia Buechen-Osmond
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/19th-annual-art-exhibition-of-the-friends-botanic-art-group/
LOCATION:Visitor Centre Gallery\, Australian National Botanic Gardens\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Exhibition
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Mignon-Atkinson-Nelumbo-nucifera_360wide-e1775513602240.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends' Botanic Art Group":MAILTO:botanicart@friendsanbg.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260416T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260416T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T014652Z
UID:10001434-1776342600-1776346200@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:The National Seed Bank 'Taking our science and practice to the global and regional stage'
DESCRIPTION: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. \nAbstract\nThis talk will capture some of the exciting projects underway at the National Seed Bank that were presented at the International and Australasian Seed Science conferences held in Perth and Horsham in September last year. These include a progress report on the NSB’s six year long project to re-test collections to determine germination requirements and assess ‘real time’ seed longevity in storage and\, about the NSB’s ongoing relationship with the Mala women rangers at Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park to exchange plant knowledge\, collect seeds and develop a seed bank that represents important plants to Aṉangu and the central desert. The NSB will also introduce an exciting new project to improve knowledge about the dormancy and germination of Leionema and Phebalium (Rutaceae) species. The project will explore what drives germination in situ and to achieve reliable germination ex situ\, providing insights to enhance the conservation and management of these and other ‘difficult to germinate’ Rutaceae species in seed banks around Australia. \nBiography\nSpeakers: National Seed Bank team members: Dr Pip Alvarez\, Millie Stevens\, James Perkins\, ANBG \nDr Pip Alvaraez \nTechnical Officer \nPip has recently finished her PhD with the University of Technology Sydney and Australian Botanic Garden. Her work focussed on understanding how heat stress impacts different stages in a plant’s life cycle\, from seeds up to adults. Pip is involved in conducting germination tests and assists in running the biology laboratory to support research students\, scientists\, data collection and analysis at the NSB.\nMillie Stevens\nSeed Testing Manager\nMillie leads the testing and retesting programs\, investigating the viability and germination requirements of the NSB’s seed collections. Millie’s work also involves managing the biology laboratory to support research students\, scientists and volunteers\, and data collection and management to inform the use and curation of our seed collections.\nDr James Perkins\nResearch Officer \nJames has recently finished his PhD at the Australian National University. His research explored the chemical ecology and pollination of orchids\, particularly underground orchids (Rhizanthella spp.). focused on the volatile compounds that attract pollinators to these unique plants. James has recently joined the NSB to lead the new research to uncover germination strategies of Leionema and Phebalium (Rutaceae) species. \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DHLRC \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/the-national-seed-bank-taking-our-science-and-practice-to-the-global-and-regional-stage/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Welcome-in-the-Theatrette_360wide.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260418T084000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260418T103000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260415T053317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T053317Z
UID:10001472-1776501600-1776508200@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Cameras and Cafe Walk
DESCRIPTION:The next Cameras and Café Walk will be held on Saturday 18 April 2026. \nLet’s maintain the excellent turnouts for these walks. It is a chance to widen your friendships within the Photographic Group and extend a welcome to fresh faces. \nTo be part of it you need to be at the bus stop at 8.40 am. Participants can choose to move around the Gardens as a group or head off with their camera individually. We reconvene for a chat at Pollen Cafe at around 10.30 am. \nAt least one person from the Friends of ANBG Photographic Group Committee will be there to get things started\, orchestrate introductions and provide advice to anyone who needs it\, especially new members\, or members with new cameras or lenses who would like extra help and support.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/cameras-and-cafe-walk-6/
LOCATION:ANBG Bus Stop\, Australian National Botanic Gardens\, Canberra\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Walk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/colour_fourth_192_rsz.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends Photographic Group":MAILTO:photo@friendsanbg.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260420T133000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260420T153000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260314T090004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260314T090004Z
UID:10001449-1776691800-1776699000@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Plant Recognition Group – Would you like to know more about Myrtaceae?
DESCRIPTION:In April\, Jane Cottee will be facilitating a plant recognition workshop on the Myrtaceae family\, focussing on practical identification tips and useful botanical features and terminology. She will include some local species of Leptospermum\, Kunzea and Callistemon and several other familiar genera. (Eucalyptus genus will not be included in any detail as this has been covered in a separate session.) \nJane taught horticulture for 25 years at Canberra Institute of Technology and has been a Volunteer Guide at the Australian National Botanical Gardens since 2019. \nWhen: Monday 20 April 13.30 – 3.30pm including extra time to practice if you wish. \nWhere: Solander Studio\, Banksia Centre\, ANBG. \nBookings ESSENTIAL: Please send your name and phone number to plantname@friendsanbg.org.au   Seats are limited for this session\, so booking ahead is mandatory. \nPlease advise at least a day in advance if you need to cancel your booking\, so that a member on the waiting list can be offered the place.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/plant-recognition-group-would-you-like-to-know-more-about-myrtaceae/
LOCATION:Solander Studio\, Banksia Centre\, ANBG\, ANBG Clunies Ross St\, Acton\, Australian Capital Territory\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Pam_Rooney_OrchardSwallowtail_on_Callistemon-e1750046013108.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends Plant Recognition Group":MAILTO:plantname@friendsanbg.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260422T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260422T200000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260328T094929Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T094929Z
UID:10001457-1776884400-1776888000@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Masterclass - Designing Resilient Gardens [Sustainable Gardening Australia]
DESCRIPTION:Join horticulturist Alistair Kirkpatrick for a practical\, inspiring session on creating a garden that can handle Australia’s changing climate. Learn how to use plant layering\, diversity and smart design to build shade\, improve soil\, and reduce watering. If your garden struggles with heat\, hail or poor yields\, you’ll walk away with simple ideas to get it thriving again. \nThis one-hour Zoom session costs $33.\nBook here: https://weteachme.com/classes/1046998 \nDo you have a garden disaster story—hail smashing your camellias\, summer sun scorching your tomatoes\, or poor pollination leaving your fruit trees bare and plants constantly dying of thirst? Unsure what to plant\, where\, or when in this changing climate? Don’t give up just yet! Join horticulturist and landscape designer Alistair Kirkpatrick for this one-hour online Master Class. Using the real life case study of his own garden and home\, Alistair will demonstrate the key components needed to make your garden more resilient to whatever the climate throws at it and how this can also impact the resilience of your own home. Topics covered include: \n\nClimate changes across Australia and what they mean for our gardens\nWhat nature teaches us: using plant density\, complexity\, and diversity to adapt\nInsights from scientific research and local observations about what truly thrives\nCreating shade and microclimates using both vertical and horizontal structures\nLayering plants to boost transpiration and support nighttime cooling\nSmarter plant choices\, thoughtful clustering\, and regenerative planting strategies\nWhy certain exotics—though sometimes controversial—might still deserve a place in your garden\nSurface permeability\, raised beds\, and natural irrigation techniques—and how these can help you reduce or even eliminate the need for watering your garden\n\nJoin us and turn your garden challenges into long-term solutions! \nAll sessions are recorded and those booked in will receive the recording link which is active for two weeks. Friends of SGA receive a 15% discount on Master Class full price tickets. You can become a Friend of SGA here. Green Garden Professional (GGPs) receive a 30% discount.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/masterclass-designing-resilient-gardens-sustainable-gardening-australia/
LOCATION:Online Zoom session\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot-2026-03-28-204036.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260423T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260423T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013728Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T014725Z
UID:10001435-1776947400-1776951000@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Leo Joseph '12 Birds\, 3 Books\, 5 Cities\, and 3 Continents: An Ornithological Life Not Yet Finished’
DESCRIPTION: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. \nAbstract\nTriggered by glimpses in childhood of Adelaide Rosellas and further ignited by experiences of almost inhaling books on Australian birds\, seeing with awe museum collections of birds and not to mention a lifetime of camaraderie with like-minded friends and colleagues\, I will look back (and ahead) on a life studying the evolution of Australian birds (with a little more yet to come). Having recently retired from CSIRO where I was Director of the Australian National Wildlife Collection from 2005-2025\, I can look back and appreciate how pivotal it was for me to see certain species of birds in the wild\, and to travel across Australian and South American landscapes\, while all the while avidly absorbing the literature of ornithology and working with many colleagues. The result was perhaps dogged yet always happy pursuit of a career studying evolution of birds especially across Australia and South America. \nBiography\nLeo joined CSIRO as Director of the Australian National Wildlife Collection in November 2005. Originally from Adelaide\, he developed an early but lifelong interest in the evolution of birds and especially in a museum collections environment\, one that has always guided his work. He did undergraduate and Honours degrees at the University of Adelaide in 1977-79 and 1981\, respectively. Then he worked in Australia and travelled in South America until doing a PhD at the University of Queensland from 1989-1994. For his thesis\, he investigated the history of habitat diversity in eastern Australian rainforest birds. Then\, from 1994-97\, he held a Visiting Professorship in the Laboratorio De Evolución\, Faculdad De Ciencias\, Montevideo\, Uruguay where he worked on shorebird evolution and the evolution of bird migration. His interest in integrating ecological diversity and evolution was by then well-established. In 1997 he took up a position in the Department of Ornithology at the then Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia\, in the USA. From 2003\, he was Chair of the Department but returned to Australia in 2005. At CSIRO\, he developed an extensive network of collaborators including fellow researchers in Australia\, Europe and North America\, postdoctoral researchers\, PhD students and Honours students. He has amassed a body of work on the phylogeography and more recent evolutionary history of Australo-Papuan birds. He was awarded the D. L. Serventy medal for publication in Australian ornithology in 2018. In 2020 he was elected as a Fellow of the American Ornithological Societies. Despite all that\, he remains a birdwatcher at heart and plans to do a lot more birdwatching in the coming years. \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DHLRE \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/leo-joseph-12-birds-3-books-5-cities-and-3-continents-an-ornithological-life-not-yet-finished/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/leo-joseph-pic2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260424T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260424T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260415T052919Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T052919Z
UID:10001471-1777024800-1777032000@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Photographic Group April Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The next regular meeting takes place on Friday 24 April at 10.00am in the Theatrette. \nStephen 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. \nStephen 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 including in the field. \nThe meeting will also feature a further selection of images submitted for inclusion in the Gardens 2027 calendar \nThe regular show and tell session is on again. Bring up to six images on a thumb drive to share with your fellow PG members. You can include videos of up to ten seconds each if you choose.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/photographic-group-april-meeting/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/244CCc.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends Photographic Group":MAILTO:photo@friendsanbg.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260430T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260430T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T022916Z
UID:10001436-1777552200-1777555800@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Associate Professor Brad Tucker ‘The past\, present and future of Mt Stromlo: Celebrating Mt Stromlo’s 100th anniversary’
DESCRIPTION: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. \nBiography\nBrad is an Astrophysicist/Cosmologist and Associate Professor at the Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics\, Mt. Stromlo Observatory and the National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science\, at the Australian National University. \nBrad has Bachelor’s degrees in Physics\, Philosophy\, and Theology from the University of Notre Dame and a PhD in Astrophysics and Cosmology from Mt. Stromlo Observatory at the ANU. He’s involved in programs using space telescopes to find stars within the first hours of explosion\, as well as surveys to measure the growth rate of the Universe. He’s developing an ultraviolet space telescope\, as well as uses machine learning to combat light pollution as well as gaining insights into the public’s understanding of science. \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DHLRH \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/associate-professor-brad-tucker-the-past-present-and-future-of-mt-stromlo-celebrating-mt-stromlos-100th-anniversary/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Welcome-in-the-Theatrette_360wide.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260504T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260510T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260302T013740Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T013741Z
UID:10001437-1777892400-1778421600@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Way out West (Flora of WA) Themed Walks
DESCRIPTION:The South-West of Western Australia is a Biodiversity Hotspot\, one of two in Australia\, with only 35 recognised globally. \nThese free one-hour guided walks will look at the riches of WA flora\, with their amazing adaptations to the environment. We will also learn about the efforts taken to get them to grow at the ANBG in very different conditions to their native habitat. \nWalks commence at 11am and 2pm each day. \nMeet at the clock near the café bridge. \nNo booking required for individuals\, but groups of more than six people should contact walks@friendsanbg.org.au a week before the planned walk.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/way-out-west-flora-of-wa-themed-walks/
LOCATION:Clock near the bridge\, ANBG\, Australian National Botanic Gardens\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2600\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Walk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Guided-walk4-scaled-e1746347810367.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Australian National Botanic Gardens":MAILTO:test@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260507T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260507T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260315T044413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T014826Z
UID:10001451-1778157000-1778160600@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Kristy Gould ‘Conserving Canberra: Healing country through restoration’
DESCRIPTION: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. \nAbstract \nThe Office of Nature Conservation (ONC) led a project as part of the Conserving Canberra Budget Initiative (2023 2025) to improve restoration through development of spatial planning tools\, deliver on-ground work at three key sites and provide opportunities for the Ngunnawal community to be engaged in Healing Country. The project partnered with four Ngunnawal Cultural Advisors to help embed cultural practices into land management\, engaged specialised bush regenerators for on-ground work and a spatial ecologist to develop online tools. Volunteer groups contributed many hours to the project and ONC worked closely with Parks and Conservation Service and the Natural Resource Management Team as delivery partners. This work is continuing for another 12 months ongoing though various other initiatives. \nBiography \nKristy completed her BSc (Environmental Science) at Charles Sturt University in 2004 and has had over 23 years of experience in land management working with ACT Parks and Conservation Service (PCS). Kristy has worked in most areas of PCS as a ranger and an area manager implementing programs including invasive pest and plant\, visitor\, asset maintenance and fire management. During this time Kristy has led several restoration projects including the Grassland Improvement Project (2006- 2008) and the ACT Woodland Restoration Project (2012-2017). Kristy is now working in the Office of Nature Conservation team as a Restoration Program Manager. \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DHLQN \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/kristy-gould-conserving-canberra-healing-country-through-restoration/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Kristy-Gould-Volunteer-Groups-20250319-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260514T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260514T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260311T222047Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T014847Z
UID:10001446-1778761800-1778765400@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Kim Pullen ‘More treasures–insects in fens and bogs’
DESCRIPTION:Kim will discuss bogs and fens as an insect habitat\, the variety of ecological niches that insects occupy and some threats to the fauna. She will give some local examples of the fauna of this habitat. \nBiography \nKim grew up in Canberra and inherited an interest in nature\, and particularly insects\, from his father who was a professional botanist (and a boyhood butterfly and beetle collector). On leaving school he worked first at the ANU\, and later at CSIRO\, assisting with research in grasshopper genetics\, pheromone-based control of insect pests\, and insect-based biological control of imported weeds. Kim then spent six years in Mexico collecting and evaluating weed biocontrol agents for exportation to Australia – as well as teaching English – before returning to Canberra with a family. He eventually came back to CSIRO to assist with faunal studies in South Australian mallee and subsequently on Murray River floodplains\, and prepare a taxonomic inventory of Australian weevils\, among other projects. \nAfter retirement\, he took up a CSIRO Honorary Fellowship\, allowing access to the Australian National Insect Collection. This helped Kim carry out a long-running ambition to compile a catalogue of the insects of the ACT. He now enjoys identifying insects for the general public on citizen science platforms and on social media (when their grandchildren allow it). \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DHLQK \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/kim-pullen-more-treasures-insects-in-fens-and-bogs-2/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Pullen-Pygmyfly-smaller-1.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260520T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260520T200000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260328T233043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T233043Z
UID:10001458-1779303600-1779307200@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Masterclass - Creating a Wildlife Haven: The Must-Know Essentials
DESCRIPTION:Want more birds\, bees and butterflies in your garden? Join Claire Bickle to learn easy\, practical ways to support local wildlife. Discover how to choose the right plants\, create shelter and water\, and make your garden a safe haven—starting this winter. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to make a real difference. \nBook your online Zoom session here: https://weteachme.com/classes/1047138 \nAre you eager to boost local biodiversity but feeling overwhelmed by all the sheer volume of information and advice? Perhaps you want to attract butterflies\, bees\, birds or dragonflies to your garden? Did you know that winter is an important time to support wildlife and support the natural ecological balance of your garden ready for spring. So lets help you get started this winter… \nJoin this one-hour Master Class with Claire Bickle and walk away with the essentials—and the networks—that will help you make a real impact. \nIn this session\, Claire will guide you through the importance of: \n\nUnderstanding your climate\nGetting to know your soil and garden aspects and how to make use of verges or nearby public spaces\nSimple design basics and practical ideas to get you started\nIdentifying your “target audience”—the insects\, marsupials\, birds\, reptiles\, frogs\, bats and more that may call your garden home\nChoosing the right plants and layering them from ground covers to grasses to trees\nDifferent water sources and why they matter for different species\nCreating shelters\, especially for insects like bees and dragonflies\nWhy even small actions can create wildlife stepping stones and nature corridors in urban areas\nBuilding community connections: where to next—catchment groups\, wildlife societies\, native plant clubs\, and more\nWays to stay informed and keep learning through reading and connecting with others\n\nIf you want to support nature in your neighbourhood and feel confident doing it\, this class is the perfect place to start. \nAll sessions are recorded and those booked in will receive the recording link which is active for two weeks. Friends of SGA receive a 15% discount on Master Class full price tickets. You can become a Friend of SGA here. Green Garden Professional (GGPs) receive a 30% discount.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/masterclass-creating-a-wildlife-haven-the-must-know-essentials/
LOCATION:Online Zoom session\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SustainableAustralia2_360wide.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260521T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260521T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260406T034721Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T034721Z
UID:10001459-1779366600-1779370200@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Andrea Wild ‘Awe and wonder in CSIRO’s collections’
DESCRIPTION:Andrea\, from CSIRO\, will share stories from the new science book Wild Collections. Learn about sharks living in sponges\, orchids flowering underground\, Spotted Handfish guarding their eggs\, quirky tales of worm bums\, Darkling beetles undertaking a decathlon\, and much more. \nAbstract\nThere are 15 million specimens in the National Research Collections Australia\, from caddisflies to daisies\, to a single albatross. \nThey’re not part of a museum\, so what do we use them for? \nWe wonder\, we discover and we take action. We’re using the 50 000 native bee specimens in our collections to discover what native bee species exist and where they live. This will help people take action to preserve the pollination benefits they provide to native plants and make use of their pollination services for agricultural plants. \nAndrea will share some of the stories from the new popular science book Wild Collections. Learn about sharks living in sponges\, orchids flowering underground\, Spotted Handfish guarding their eggs\, weevils rolling dung just like scarabs do\, Giant Kelp towering in Tasmania’s seas\, quirky tales of worm bums\, Darkling beetles undertaking a decathlon\, the curlicues of shark’s eggs and much more. \nBiography\nAndrea Wild is an author and science communicator who works with the biodiversity collections at CSIRO. She has written three books: The Very Stinky Fly Hunt\, Wild Collections and AmAZed\, CSIRO’s A to Z of Biodiversity. \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DKZFY \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/andrea-wild-awe-and-wonder-in-csiros-collections/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/AndreaWildwithBooks_newwebsite.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260521T133000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260521T160000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260415T052600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T052600Z
UID:10001470-1779370200-1779379200@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Plant Recognition Group 'Getting to know agaric fungi (mushrooms and toadstools)'
DESCRIPTION:The next Plant Recognition Group workshop will focus on agaric fungi (mushrooms and toadstools). Heino Lepp from the mycology collection of the Australian National Herbarium will talk about the macroscopic features that help identify agarics and will have fresh specimens on hand.  A compound microscope is necessary for the identification of many species but\, even for an expert\, the first step in identification is a look at the macroscopic features. The aim of the session is to help you learn how to look at agarics in that first step. Binocular microscopes and other aids for identification will be available for the workshop. \nWhen:  1.30 – 4.00 pm on Thursday 21 May 2026.\nWhere: Solander Room\, Banksia Centre\, ANBG \nBooking ESSENTIAL: Please send your name and phone number to plantname@friendsanbg.org.au   Seats are limited for this session\, so booking ahead is mandatory. \nPlease advise at least a day in advance if you need to cancel your booking\, so that a member on the waiting list can be offered the place.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/plant-recognition-group-getting-to-know-agaric-fungi-mushrooms-and-toadstools-2/
LOCATION:Solander Studio\, Banksia Centre\, ANBG\, ANBG Clunies Ross St\, Acton\, Australian Capital Territory\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Amanita_muscaria_3_vliegenzwammen_op_rij.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends Plant Recognition Group":MAILTO:plantname@friendsanbg.org.au
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260528T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20260528T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T095718
CREATED:20260406T035008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T035008Z
UID:10001460-1779971400-1779975000@friendsanbg.org.au
SUMMARY:Dr Roger Farrow ‘Back from the brink or a resilient survivor: The case of Key’s Matchstick Grasshopper\, Keyacris scurra’
DESCRIPTION:Roger\, formerly of CSIRO\, will tell a tale of mystery and suspense involving two geneticists\, some cemeteries\, a taxonomist\, a survey\, sheep\, habitat loss\, citizen scientists and a sceptic. \nBiography\nDr Roger Farrow is an “unretired” entomologist following a career in CSIRO Entomology. Since retirement he has pursued his interest in insect natural history\, publishing an ecological and behavioural guide to the insects of south-eastern Australia (CSIRO 2018) and is currently studying insect pollination. This links to his other interest\, namely native plants and their ecology. This has developed through his membership of the Australian Native Plant Society and the opportunity to participate in field trips to identify plants in a range of different habitats. \nBooking Link – https://www.trybooking.com/DKZFZ \nBooking\nLunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins\, notes\, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development and we thank all those who have donated. \nUnless otherwise indicated\, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette. \nIt is a good idea to reserve a seat at the talks that you wish to attend; talks may be booked out very quickly.  Bookings can be made from about 30 days in advance until the night before the talk or until seating limits are reached. \nThe Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. Many summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends at the ANBG library. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email talks@friendsanbg.org.au.
URL:https://friendsanbg.org.au/event/dr-roger-farrow-back-from-the-brink-or-a-resilient-survivor-the-case-of-keys-matchstick-grasshopper-keyacris-scurra/
LOCATION:ANBG Theatrette\, Clunies Ross Street Acton ACT 2601\, Canberra\, ACT\, 2601\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Thursday Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://friendsanbg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/keys-matchstick-grasshopper.jpg
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