The Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s final Science in the Pub event for 2024 was a great success. Over 30 participants attended despite wet weather. The evening at The Shanti Cafe combined education, community spirit, and great food, all in support of one of Australia’s most vulnerable shorebird species—the Tasman Little Tern.
Guest speaker Simon Kennedy from BirdLife Australia delivered a fantastic presentation about the Tasman Little Tern, whose population is estimated at just 1,200.
Attendees gained valuable insights into the threats facing this endangered species, including habitat loss and predation, and learned practical ways to help protect them right here on the Cassowary Coast
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The event’s timing was particularly significant, as it coincides with the Little Tern’s nesting season—a critical time in their lifecycle. With a low egg-to-fledgling success rate, raising community awareness is essential to safeguarding this iconic shorebird.
Council extends its thanks to Simon Kennedy and BirdLife Australia for their expertise and passion, to Shanti Café for providing a welcoming venue and delicious Thai food, and to all who attended and showed their commitment to conservation.
For those eager to learn more or get involved, BirdLife Australia offers a wealth of information and resources about shorebird conservation.
The Science in the Pub series will return in 2025. Stay tuned for more events that inspire learning and action for a better future.
