A rejuvenated Northern Rivers Science Hub returns in 2023

Graphic for The Message of the Lyrebird film

A rejuvenated Northern Rivers Science Hub returns with a series of events to connect and engage the local community in understanding science and sustainable futures in the Northern Rivers of NSW.

Ivy Young, from Richmond Landcare and the Northern Rivers Science Hub, states “It’s been wonderful to have a revival of our Northern Rivers Science Hub. Thanks to funding from Inspiring Australia we have been able to reignite our Science in the Pub events, giving people an opportunity to come together in a relaxed atmosphere to deepen our understanding of the world around us and how science can improve our interaction with the natural world.”

After a successful Science in the Pub exploring the science behind ecosystem revival at the Eltham Hotel on 11 October, the next two events provide opportunities for the community to learn from and talk directly to scientists and artists about their natural environment.

The Message of the Lyrebird film screening and Q & A

The Message of the Lyrebird: A Cinematic Journey to Unravel Nature’s Message is captivating film, produced by Balangara Films, that offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the magical world of the lyrebird, an extraordinary creature that holds the secrets of Australia’s ancient forests in its song.

No other bird on Earth possesses the unique abilities of the lyrebird, and this documentary takes audiences on a profound exploration of its sophisticated artistry. From the lush Sherbrooke Forest in Victoria, to the picturesque landscapes of the New England Plateau in New South Wales, the film uncovers the lyrical mysteries of these avian wonders. As humanity delves deeper into the heart of nature, we are confronted with an urgent question: is the lyrebird now singing the melancholic tale of human encroachment?

The Message of the Lyrebird is not merely a film; it’s a call to action. Through the lens of this documentary, viewers will gain a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between nature and humanity. The film introduces a diverse cast of characters, including a scientist, a lyrebird sound recordist, a lyrebird keeper, an activist, and local Knowledge-Holders.

For this special special event in the Northern Rivers, there will be a post-film Q&A session with the film director, Mark Pearce, and local ecologist, Iain Stych.

The Message of the Lyrebird Film Screening and Q &A
Thursday 16 November, 6pm
Star Court Theatre, 126 Molesworth St, Lismore NSW 2480
Tickets: General Admission $15, Richmond Landcare Members/concession $10.
Book now


Koalas in the Big Scrub – a conservation dilemma

The Big Scrub Rainforest Day is an annual celebration hosted by the Big Scrub Rainforest Conservancy that informs and engages the local community on all aspects of lowland subtropical rainforest, and its restoration.

For the opening night this year, a Science in the Pub event will feature a panel discussion with experts in ecosystem recovery, endangered species management, carbon sequestration and, of course, conservation of the critically endangered Big Scrub rainforest and its many threatened species, along with a short film screening of Koalas in the Big Scrub: A Conservation Dilemma.

The night will include:

  • a carbon sequestration talk with Dr Kevin Glencross (Southern Cross University Forest Research Centre)
  • a short film premiere, Koalas in the Big Scrub: A Conservation Dilemma
  • and panel discussion with Angie Brace (Friends of the Koala), Dr Rob Kooyman (leading rainforest evolutionary and field ecologist, Macquarie University), , Mark Dunphy (Firewheel Rainforest Nursery), Rhonda James (Friends of the Koala, Bushland Restoration Services)
  • MC for the night: the ABC’s Mick O’Regan

Science in the Pub – Koalas in the Big Scrub
Thursday 23 November, 5.30pm to 9.30pm
The Eltham Hotel, 41 Eltham Rd, Eltham, New South Wales 2480
Tickets: Free and open to all with registration essential
Register now

The Big Scrub Rainforest Day features talks, guided walks, workshops  and tree plantings and is open to all.