45 people from the public attended the Australian National Science week activity Waterbirds need Wetlands on a perfect
morning, with plenty of sun but no wind. Tony Lawson and Chris Davey from COG gave an introductory talk as well as
instructions on how to use binoculars. The group then split into two, one remaining at the wetlands and the other visiting
the Fyshwick Sewerage Treatment Works. After about 45 minutes, a morning tea was held back at the wetlands car-park
and the groups swapped over to the other activity. Telescopes were set up in both the hides and at the ponds to allow
people to have a closer and more stable look at various birds. The tour leaders, Chris Davey and Sue Lashko, did not just
identify birds, but gave lots of extra information, and explained the importance of the wetlands habitat. The star bird of
the day was definitely the Blue-billed Duck. Everyone was fascinated with the bright blue bill of the male. People went
away with a real appreciation of the importance of the Jerrabomberra Wetlands and enjoyed the ease that wetlands birds
can be observed. Lots of people said that they will definitely come back to Jerrabomberra Wetlands and the Fyshwick
Ponds, and a few thought they might join COG.
COG would like to thank the ACT National Science Week Committee for including their event in National Science Week, and are very interested in running the event again next year. Many thanks to: Chris Davey, Sue Lashko, Tony Lawson, Robyn Lawrence, Leo Berzins and Alana Wilkes for their contributions towards this successful day. And to Julian Robinson who turned up late, so missed out on the morning tea and the walks, but helped pack up the marquee.
Robyn Lawrence