Bega Valley Shire Council and Atlas of Life are pleased to present the next Life in our Cemeteries event at the Wonboyn cemetery at 11am on Saturday 29 October.
Council's Environmental Engagement Officer, Erin Moon said this is an opportunity for community members to visit our cemeteries to document the plants and wildlife that live in and around them.
"It is a unique way for attendees to connect with nature and each other," Ms Moon said.
"We had a great crowd at the last event in July, who joined for a day of exploring the unique flora, fauna and local histories at the Bermagui cemetery.
"In Wonboyn we hope to see a similar interest and involvement by the local community.
"Citizen science programs like this help to inform the future management of our shire's endangered ecological communities and threatened species."
Chairperson of Atlas of Life, Libby Hepburn said citizen science is about encouraging the interests and talents of our local communities to help us learn more about our natural environment.
"Everyone who joins the event will explore this fascinating place and can document what they find on the iNaturalist app; so the identity of the plant, insect or animal can be confirmed," Ms Hepburn said.
"Participants will join botanist, Jackie Miles and ecologist Elizabeth Larson who will lead 'walk and talks', identifying and photographing the plants and wildlife of the cemetery and its surrounds.
"Local historian, Fiona Firth will speak on the history of the cemetery, showing participants how to 'read the cemetery' and unlock interesting local stories.
"There will also be a presentation and display from Potoroo Palace with Glenda Wood giving a talk on local orchids."
Atlas of Life assures the community that full care and respect for the cemetery and those interred will be maintained during this event.
