More than 50 field staff and biodiversity officers from councils across South Australia recently met at Pakapakanthi (Victoria Park) to swap ideas, learn from each other and see local conservation work in action.

The day included a tour of remnant and restored grasslands led by City of Adelaide Biodiversity Leading Hand Stephanie Legg. Staff heard about native plant protection, recent discoveries from Park Lands biodiversity surveys and practical ways to improve natural areas.

The group also learned about the Miyawaki planting method, which uses dense planting to create small native forests, and the important role volunteers play in looking after local environments.

Guest speaker Monina Gilbey showed that even golf courses can become valuable homes for native plants and animals. Her work at Glenelg Golf Club has helped bring back threatened plant species and reintroduce the Olive Perchlet fish.

For field staff, days like this are a chance to pick up new ideas, meet people doing similar work and take practical knowledge back to their own council.

If you’d like to learn more about the Local Government Biodiversity Officer Network, please contact Yasmin.Fiorani@cityofadelaide.com.au, Biodiversity, City Operations at the City of Adelaide.