Mary Cairncross set to buzz this spring

Dr Christine Lambkin (QM Curator of Entomology) is joining the research project.

There are an estimated 30,000 species of flies in Australia and this October, scientists are on a quest to discover those that live in Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve at Maleny, as part of Sunshine Coast Council’s Tiny Giants event. 

Twelve scientists, led by Queensland Museum will partner with council to uncover the hidden invertebrates that keep the rainforest ecosystem ticking.   Under the microscope will be flies, spiders, ants, mites, moths, butterflies and beetles.

From October 21–24, 2021, the community is invited to join in the fun and learn directly from the scientists during four days of diverse walks, talks and workshops for all ages.  

Queensland Museum Curator of Entomology Dr Christine Lambkin said little was known about most invertebrates in Australia.

“There are 178 species already recorded in Maleny and that is only just scratching the surface,” Dr Lambkin said.

Sunshine Coast Council’s Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston invited the community to attend a workshop or a talk during the four-day event. “Visitors can learn about insect trapping methods, skill-up on macrophotography and butterfly identification or listen to an expert panel on how to get involved in invertebrate citizen science and much more.”

The program is available under ‘See and Do’ at mary-cairncross.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au