For the first time in fifteen years I missed the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS), except for lockdowns and cancellations due to COVID19. Unfortunately, I had to suffer ten days of near perfect diving conditions on the coral reefs between Lizard Island and Cairns, including the Osprey Reef in the Coral Sea.… Continue reading
Read MoreThe discovery of a new species of orchid in Japan underscores the necessity of persistent exploration and conservation efforts for undisturbed native ecosystems.
The orchid, named Spiranthes hachijoensis, was discovered in Tokyo. This discovery will undoubtedly spark interest in the flower which was originally thought to be S.… Continue reading
Read MoreMost of us know what it feels like to have something stolen. It creates a sinking feeling that hits you in the gut. When it comes to plants, that takes it to another level! One day I came out into my front garden (which doesn’t have a fence) and found that a massive clump of bromeliads had simply been ripped out.… Continue reading
Read MoreI find the early weeks of December so hectic that I feel my feet don’t hit the ground. After the visit from the red-suited gentleman and his reindeers, I usually have time to reflect on the year just passed. That’s when I realise that events that seemed so stressful at the time, were just another little bump in the road.… Continue reading
Read MoreBeing recognised for your work by receiving an award is such an honour and I am extremely proud to be sharing this wonderful news with you all. Three of our regular contributors have received awards since our last issue was printed.… Continue reading
Read MoreIt’s that old chestnut, ‘I can’t believe it is November already’. Are you ready for the Christmas period? Sunshine, stock and staff could determine how merry the trading period will be.
Many sectors have had a difficult post COVID period due to supply-side bottlenecks and staff shortages.… Continue reading
Read MoreOnly after the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II did I realise how many Australian organisations had a title that included ‘Royal’. Obviously, we have a Royal Australian Navy and a Royal Air Force for example but there are many more. There are at least ten variations of Royal Agricultural Societies, three Royal Horticultural Societies and a couple of Royal Botanic Gardens.… Continue reading
Read MoreSpring has arrived at last and one can only hope that the weather is milder and calmer without floods, fires and natural disasters. While the pandemic put the brakes on most of us in various ways, as restrictions ease and an element of ‘business as usual’ is occurring, it can feel as though we are playing a bit of catch-up and on a bit of a roller coaster rolling into spring. … Continue reading
Read MoreThe State of the Environment report (SOE) released in July 2022 certainly reminded us of the challenges we face overcoming a stressed environment. Impacts on biodiversity caused by habitat loss, degradation and introduced invasive species continue to contribute to extinctions and deteriorating ecosystems.… Continue reading
Read MoreYou may have noticed that over the past year we have included articles that cover environmental issues and sustainability from plastic recycling to landfills. If you haven’t read any of Bruce Thompson’s articles this year on recycling waste, I suggest you do.… Continue reading
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