The Mid Macquarie Landcare team ran a Bird Photography Workshop on Saturday 7th March with wildlife photographer and ecologist, David Cunningham. Fifteen participants gathered at the Stewart’s property, Minalty Park, in Curra Creek on what turned out to be an ideally overcast morning. David shared practical advice on how to take photographs for maximum impact by considering natural light, composition and shutter speed settings. He also discussed animal behaviour and, how as photographers, to minimise our intrusion on wildlife. As we meandered along the creek, David offered one-on-one advice to help attendants capture the best shots. Participants spotted a wide variety of birds providing them ample opportunity to hone their photographic skills.

The sighting of a Diamond Firetail and a Rainbow bee-eater were amongst the morning’s highlights! One participant, a keen birder, tallied 24 total bird species of the 45 ever recorded on the property. The diversity of birds on local land is an indicator of overall biodiversity and a reminder of the critical role remnant habitat plays in supporting this. There was also a density of mistletoe growth present in the canopy along certain zones of the property, which were particularly active with birdlife and diversity of bird species. 

Mid Macquarie Landcare expressed gratitude to photographer, David Cunningham for his time and effort in sharing is extensive knowledge and skill. A heartfelt thankyou to David and Gail Stewart who kindly hosted us at Minalty Park. Photographs listed were contributed by Nick Segran and David Cunningham, along with Mid Macquarie Landcare's Deborah Cooke and Little River Landcare’s Amy Kerr. And thankyou to Sharon Portelli for sharing her bird count from the day. This workshop was made possible and proudly funded by EnergyCo’s Community and Employment Benefit Program.