Celebrate National Bird Week at Goldfields Libraries!

Goldfields Libraries are going all-out for National Bird Week this year with a range of bird-brained events for all ages! 

The popular Great Library Bird Count will be held again this year from Monday 17-Friday 22 October, challenging children to put their birdwatching skills to the test! Fifteen well recognised Central Victorian birds will be perched around the libraries – find them all to win a prize! 

“Last year over 225 participants completed the challenge across six branches, and this year ten branches will be participating, so it’s going to be huge!” said Tammy Higgs, Goldfields Library Corporation Programs and Events Coordinator. 

The Great Library Bird Count has been inspired by the Aussie Backyard Bird Count, held by Bird Life Australia and Birds in Backyards during National Bird Week. Dubbed Australia’s “biggest citizen science project”, participants use an app to record the birds they identify in their area. Their statistics contribute to an overall national tally of bird species across Australia, giving an indication of how our birds are faring. See www.aussiebirdcount.org.au 

“Our Libraries love being involved in National Bird Week as a way of raising awareness of bird conservation efforts through an interesting range of fun and inspiring activities for all ages,” said Ms Higgs.

Naturalist and bioacoustics researcher Andrew Skeoch will speak at Bendigo Library on Thursday 20 October. Andrew is a well-known nature sound recordist, and will present his recordings from the wild for audiences to enjoy. 

Kyneton Library will host a fascinating display of bird nests carefully collected by Grace Hughes from Monday 10-Friday 28 October. 

Children will be able to participate in nest building activities along with fun, informative sessions about birds, hosted by environmental educator Nicole Howie. Sessions will be held at Bendigo Library on Tuesday 18 and Thursday 20 October, and at Kangaroo Flat Library on Saturday 22 October. 

Accomplished bird photographers Daryl Fleay and Chris Cope will showcase their inspiring works of art at Bendigo Library on Tuesday 18 October. They will share their journey of the years they spent building their collection, and will offer advice on getting started with bird photography. 

All events are free, and further details and booking information can be found at: www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au/birdweek