Features in this issue

Lasting adventures: A history of LANDSCOPE expeditions

Involving the community and laying the foundations of citizen science

Volunteers at a seabird breeding colony on Pelsaert Island Houtman Abrolhos. Photo - DBCA
Volunteers at a seabird breeding colony on Pelsaert Island Houtman Abrolhos. Photo - DBCA

As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of LANDSCOPE magazine, we look back at a groundbreaking program that saw members of the public invited to join conservation scientists in the field to see and participate in hands-on research activities. LANDSCOPE Expeditions ran from 1992 to 2009 and traversed the State, laying the foundation for some major conservation programs that still exist today. 

From traversing the rugged landscape of the Kimberley, to uncovering rare flora and fauna in the south-west; LANDSCOPE Expeditions promised a share of adventure, discovery and camaraderie.  

Starting in 1992 with a trip to the Gibson Desert, the idea for the expeditions was inspired by The University of Western Australia’s Extension program led by Jean Paton (nee Collins) and Western Australian Naturalists’ Club excursions, led by Kevin Coate and Kevin Kenneally, both of which conducted scientific research trips throughout Western Australia. As the program was designed to raise public awareness of plant and animal species, the eligibility requirements for the volunteers joining the expeditions were simple.

“The only qualifications needed are general good health, common sense, enthusiasm, an ability to adapt to other people, and a sense of humour,” former LANDSCOPE managing editor, Ron Kawalilak said at the time. 

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Other features in this issue

Making ripples for conservation

The beauty and popularity of the Swan Canning Riverpark mask the challenges faced by this iconic symbol of Perth. The health of the rivers evokes passionate advocacy from scientists, conservationists, wildlife carers and ecologists who all came together to raise public awareness of the river system at the second annual River Guardians Festival.

5 minute read

Enchanted by Australian wildlife

After fleeing Czechoslovakia in the 1970s, Jiri and Marie Lochman sought refuge in Australia and were instantly enchanted by the fascinating landscape and its intriguing wildlife. After saving enough for a camera, their creative instincts took over and they forged a path for themselves as successful nature photographers. LANDSCOPE magazine has been lucky enough to feature their photos in almost every edition since 1985.

6 minute read

Millstream Chichester National Park

A rich landscape of rolling spinifex hills, spectacular escarpments and winding tree-lined watercourses makes up the remote 240,000-hectare Millstream Chichester National Park. Located 120 kilometres south of Karratha in WA’s north, the park is known for its lush oases of the Millstream wetlands and Fortescue River pools.

4 minute read

Forty years of contributing to LANDSCOPE

Since the age of nine, Cliff Winfield has been capturing images of the natural world around him. With a keen eye and some amazing mentors, he has developed a good reputation in Western Australia’s nature photography community and his stunning images have featured in almost every edition of LANDSCOPE magazine since its inception in 1985. 

4 minute read

So many turtles, so little time

Dr Tony Tucker came from a generation of scientists that pioneered conservation research. Over time, his dedicated and thorough brand of science made him a leader and a mentor amongst his fellow scientists. Tony’s discoveries and contributions about freshwater crocodiles, freshwater turtles and marine turtles are globally recognised, and have driven positive conservation outcomes for freshwater and marine reptiles across the world. 

4 minute read

The humble Hakea

While fellow Proteaceae family members Grevillea and Banksia are well known and popular, the humble Hakea with its 180 species (and subspecies) holds its own as an impressive genus in this large family. 

3 minute read

Adventure out: SeaWeek at Perth Zoo

Students from John Curtin College of the Arts visited Perth Zoo during SeaWeek. Jasmine Browning and her friends heard from scientists and zoologists about the issues affecting WA’s marine environment and wildlife. 

4 minute read

A brush with nature

After discovering a talent for drawing at a young age, Philippa Nikulinsky has been enchanted by Western Australia’s native species and has spent a lifetime illustrating them along with her husband and fellow artist, Alex. Philippa’s artwork graced the covers of LANDSCOPE magazine for 22 years and earned her an Order of Australia medal. 

4 minute read

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Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.