As the sun sets over the forests of East Gippsland, a hidden world comes alive as nocturnal animals emerge from their hollows to feast on eucalypt blossom, sweet sap, and other bush delicacies.
For anyone willing to quietly explore the night forest by torchlight, a whole new ecosystem awaits — accompanied by the distinct screeches of gliders and possums or the distant bark of an owl.
The Bairnsdale & District Field Naturalists Club is inviting community members to experience this firsthand during an evening of spotlighting on Saturday, July 18.
Led by renowned wildlife specialist Jim Reside, the excursion group will depart from the Bairnsdale Bridge Club, located next to the railway station, on Saturday afternoon at 3pm.
Participants will travel north-west of Bairnsdale into the Mt Alfred State Forest for a picnic before setting off to explore the nightlife active within the treetops.
Attendees are reminded to wear warm clothing and are required to bring their own evening picnic, a chair, a torch, and binoculars. The group is scheduled to return by 8pm.
Anyone wishing to join the spotlighting excursion should contact Jim Reside via email (details available at the Advertiser office).
