25th October 2023 | 

A memorable field trip to Maria Island exploring this iconic place and hearing from dedicated wildcarers, parks managers, and the best bird and ecology guide this side of town! The day started off on the right foot, too, with a visit by a friendly magpie. 

We were all interested in in awe of Anne and Peter Booth from Friends of Maria Island, who shared their two decades of weed control efforts on the island, specifically targeting Montpellier Broom. They demonstrated how ongoing commitment and consistency has paid off - read more about the group's weed control efforts here! 

We were lucky to have keen birder and ecology expert Cat Davidson talk about local bird species and island ecology. There were lots of stunning sights and curious creatures to see, including many delightful encounters with wombats and their adorable babies, and the field trip culminating at the fossil cliffs with breathtaking views. We were lucky with the weather all day... but as the group awaited the ferry back at the jetty a sudden and intense hailstorm sent everyone scrambling for cover!

Check out the photo gallery below (photos thanks to volunteer photographer Jemima Phelps) which showcases the special landscape and the wonderful time had on this trip. 

A big thanks to Anne and Peter from Wildcare Friends of Maria Island, Jill and Kim from Wildcare Tasmania, Katherine, Emmaline and Lesley from Parks and Wildlife Service, and Cat Davidson for their assistance in running this wonderful day.  

This field trip was sponsored by Wildcare Tasmania, with support from Parks and Wildlife Service and Encounter Maria Island.

Gallery

Photography by Jemima Phelps