Dynamic event looks Beyond Bunya Dieback
OVER 100 ecologists, conservationists and community members gathered at a unique symposium, organised to explore positive and sustainable approaches to Bunya conservation.
Hosted by Brush Turkey Enterprises at The Maleny Community Centre on Friday February 23, co-organiser Spencer Shaw said the death of the Bunya Trees had been observed in SEQ for nearly two decades, and more recently on the Blackall Range over the last four years. He said the symposium was an opportunity for a wide range of knowledgeable presenters and participants to come together, to discuss solutions and find a way Beyond Bunya Dieback.
“We see the loss of these iconic Bunya across the Blackall Range as a call to action, to better management of our natural areas and wider landscape,” he said.
Speaking with GC&M News, Mr Shaw explained that Bunya dieback was a complex occurrence. He said the disease could affect a range of species and also contribute to wider ecological decline.
“The simplest explanation is that exotic Phytophthora species (water moulds) have been introduced into our area.
“Trees that become infected and also subjected to a range of other factors, including soil compaction, loss of soil life diversity and climate change such as drought, flooding and temperature rises, can then die,” he explained.
Mr Shaw said he was thrilled with the response to the event, which provided attendees with insights from a variety of perspectives, an opportunity to explore the cultural significance of Bunya trees and address the challenges posed by Bunya dieback. He said he was pleased the event provided thought provoking discussions and workshops, and a positive platform which encouraged collaborative dialogue aimed at developing community-based solutions.
The symposium featured a diverse line-up of speakers, including Traditional Owners, researchers including Professor Patrick Moss and soil pathologist Dr Louise Shuey and an international key note presentation from Tiakina Kauri.
Mr Shaw said while the symposium was still in its early days in providing a response to managing Bunya dieback, the goal was to bring together a knowledgeable group of people, to share experiences with dieback and ecological decline,and on a more positive note also put together solutions and guidelines.
“This will help us all, whether it be in your back yard or National Park, to keep Bunya on country for millennia to come,” he said.