CSIRO scientist and insect specialist, Dr Saul Cunningham will visit north central Victoria in March to speak on ’Bugs and biodiversity on the farm: Maximising the benefits’.

The North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is hosting Dr. Cunningham’s visit which involves presentations at three events, beginning with the 2013 Future Farming Expo from 9am on Thursday 14 March in the Yarrawalla Hall. 

On the evening of 14 March Baynton-Sidonia landholders are invited to hear Dr. Cunningham speak in the Baynton Hall commencing at 6.30pm, including a short walk (subject to weather) and BBQ dinner.

The visit will conclude on Friday 15 March with a workshop titled ‘Benefits of Bugs’ in the Serpentine Lawn Bowls Club rooms from 10am – 1.30pm, including lunch.

Dr Cunningham researches the fascinating world of invertebrates and how insect communities can be managed for agricultural and environmental benefits.  He is co-author of a CSIRO report ‘Land use change and biodiversity in the High Rainfall Cropping Zone’ which investigates the changing land use in Australia’s prime farming land. The report identifies the new generation of younger farmers as one of the drivers towards more intensive land use, and outlines how farmers can manage changes to retain biodiversity.

Robyn McKay, North Central CMA project officer, said “Retaining biodiversity not only benefits the environment but can have multiple benefits for farmers, including crop pollination and pest control. Very few of us know much about insects, or understand the important role they play in both the environment and food production, so we are very excited about Dr. Cunningham’s visit.”

The sessions are recommended for farmers and those with an interest in conservation and sustainable agriculture.  

More information including a detailed 2013 Future Farming Expo program can be found at www.nccma.vic.gov.au

To reserve one of the limited free places, RSVP to the North Central CMA by 5 pm Tuesday 12 March on (03) 5448 7124 or email info@nccma.vic.gov.au. For the Baynton event, please RSVP to Clare Claydon on (03) 5423 4152 or email clare@knco.net. 

This event and all associated material is supported by the following projects: Farming for Australian Conditions, Regional Landcare Facilitator, Kyneton and Box-Gum Grassy Woodlands, and Loddon Stressed Rivers, hosted by the North Central CMA with funding from the Australian Government’s Caring for Our Country and Clean Energy Future Biodiversity Fund, and locally supported by the Baynton-Sidonia Landcare Group.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551

t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au