Fungi Discovery Workshop

MEDIA RELEASE- Post event

“Gunning District Landcare hosted a Fungi Discovery Workshop at Dalton Hall this Sunday (12 May), as part of the Private Land Conservation Matters project. This initiative, a partnership between Landcare NSW and the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust, aims to raise awareness and support private land conservation efforts across the state.

The workshop, funded through the project, featured ecologist and nature photographer, Alison Pouilot, who led participants through a comprehensive exploration of fungi, including discussing the vital role fungi play in the environment, such as breaking down plant and animal matter, transforming nutrients to make them available to plants, and recycling carbon. Pouilot also shared techniques to identify these often-overlooked organisms. Attendees were treated to a stunning display of mushrooms, mycelium, and lichens, meticulously arranged alongside their companion plants and substrates.

One of the highlights of the workshop was a foray at the Dalton cricket grounds. Participants had the opportunity to put their newfound knowledge to the test, discovering a diverse array of fungi. Many participants were amazed at the diversity of fungi that can be found in a small, unassuming patch of bushland. 

The Fungi Discovery Workshop was a resounding success, thanks to the efforts of Gunning District Landcare and the enthusiastic participation of the community. Events like these serve as a reminder of the incredible diversity and importance of the natural world and create opportunities for community connection.”

The feedback from the Fungi Discovery workshop can be summarized as follows:

1. Presenter's Passion and Communication: The presenter was repeatedly praised for being passionate about the topic and an excellent communicator.
2. Hands-On and Explorative Approach: Attendees appreciated the hands-on displays and the opportunity to explore outside.
3. Sensory Engagement: Participants enjoyed being encouraged to touch and smell different flowering bodies.
4. Organizational Excellence: The organizers and the structure of the workshop were commended.
5. Interactive and Thoughtful Design: The course was well-structured, allowing plenty of time for questions and interaction with other attendees.

This feedback highlights the workshop's engaging presentation style, interactive activities, and effective organization.

 "What do you want to learn next?" from the Fungi Discovery workshop 

1. Uncertainty:
   • Some attendees were unsure of what they wanted to learn next, responding with "Don’t know."
2. Policy and Biosecurity:
   • One participant expressed interest in biosecurity issues and was exploring how the organization could contribute to this area.
3. Volunteer Opportunities:
   • Interest in opportunities for volunteer participation was noted.
4. Continuation of Workshops:
   • Attendees expressed a desire for more workshops like this one and to be notified about future events.
5. Support for Small Landholders:
   • Suggestions were made to include landholders with smaller acreages in initiatives. These properties could become biodiversity havens if proper resources and support were provided.

This feedback suggests a mix of curiosity about biosecurity, a desire for ongoing engagement through workshops, and interest in fostering biodiversity on smaller properties.