Leading native bee researcher and renowned science communicator Dr Kit Prendergast, aka The Bee Babette, is set to create a buzz as the guest speaker at an Australian Native Bee presentation during National Bee Day at Redland City Council’s environment centre, IndigiScapes on May 20.
Redland City Council Mayor Karen Williams said Dr Kit, a zoologist and finalist in the WA Young Achiever’s Award, will provide local nature enthusiasts with her scientific insights into everything you ever wanted to know about bees, but were afraid to ask: who they are, what they do and how people can protect them and enhance the critical role bees play in gardens and in natural habitat!
“Our Redlands IndigiScapes Centre is the perfect place to host events for National Bee Day, continuing the centre’s tradition as a hub for community education, information and engagement around all aspects of the local environment,” Cr Williams said.
“IndigiScapes is an eco-wonder and is a unique environmental education centre of which Council is very proud, providing an inviting and tranquil location for residents and visitors alike to be inspired by the native nursery, bush tracks, nature playground and café.
“There’s always more to learn about the vital role that all elements of our ecosystem play in keeping the delicate balance. Events like National Bee Day are a great opportunity for the community to learn about sustainable living and caring for our native fauna and flora.”
Scientists agree that bee populations in Australia are under threat and highlight their important role, including pollinating most of the crops that we eat and many crops that feed farm livestock.
Dr Kit has published over 30 articles on native bee conservation and various aspects of their plant-pollinator and wildlife interactions.
Dr Kit’s presentation will conclude with a morning bee walk at Redlands IndigiScapes Centre through the native botanic gardens to the beautiful nursery.
The IndigiScapes Café is also hosting a special National Bee Day Breakfast with a carefully crafted menu, featuring original culinary delights such as Macadamia and native bee honey muesli parfait; and pollinator pumpkin, bacon and spinach breakfast tart.
Both events will be held at Redlands IndigiScapes Centre, Capalaba on Friday, May 20.
Tickets are being sold separately for both events and are limited for both events. Anyone wishing to attend is encouraged to book early.
For the Australian Native Bee presentation with Dr Kit Prendergast, book tickets here.
For Redlands Indigiscapes Centre Special Bee Day Breakfast, book tickets here.
Dr Kit will also be a guest presenter at the annual Redland City Council Environment and Community Fair on Saturday, 4 June.