The Scenic Rim is a relatively fertile, well-watered part of Australia, with mountains, valleys and a variety of rainforests and open forests as well as shrublands, heathlands, wetlands and other habitats, and includes several important conservation areas, the largest being Lamington National Park (over 20,000 hectares). Not surprisingly then, it harbours one of the highest diversities of wildlife in the country, including many iconic species such as kangaroo, koala, platypus and lyrebird as well as many lesser-known creatures, and some highly endangered ones such as the Coxen's figparrot and the northern race of the eastern bristlebird.

Our group is organizing activities to enhance the appreciation of the wonderful diversity we have here and an understanding of their ecological needs. The Wildlife Expo to be held in July this year showcases this diversity and gives locals and visitors the opportunity to see live bettongs, quolls and other native animals, wildlife artists with work-in-progress, university staff offering relevant courses, wildlife carers, birding groups, wildlife identification, and much more. There will be children's activities, a wildlife photo competition, and the results of the Great WIldlife Discovery Challenge (a series of puzzles and quizzes involving the wildlife of the Scenic Rim). Entry to the Challenge is free, and we have some wonderful prizes (first prize is two nights at O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat) - entries close end of June, and are open to all except committee memebrs and their immediate families.

For more information visit the Scenic Rim Banch website.