BSSA Podcast

The arid zone covers 70% of the Australian landmass. So, how can we restore and protect our country’s largest landscape? Arid Recovery is a wildlife reserve dedicated to conservation research in South Australia’s arid interior. Dr Katherine Tuft is the CEO and manager, undertaking conservation research to find practical on ground solutions to restore the arid landscape. Tori Love sits down with Katherine to discuss the challenges of drought, feral animals, and reintroductions. But, it certainly hasn’t all gone to pot! Katherine shares with us plenty of “nuggets of hope”. From bettongs wising up to predators, to mapping of bush tucker knowledge and artists building heat refuges for our fuzzy friends. Katherine also has some great insights into women in conservation and some advice for budding ecologists. If you want to learn more about Arid Recovery visit their website aridrecovery.org.au/ or follow @KatherineTuft and @AridRecovery on twitter.Host: Tori LoveProducers: Tori Love, Tyler Dornan, Jacob Maher and Adam ToomesMusic: Darcy Whittaker The BSSA podcast is supported by the Biology Society of South Australia For more on the BSSA, head to our website www.biologysocietysa.com or follow us on instagram @biologysocietysa, facebook and twitter @BiolSocSA

Veggie gardening is a hobby growing in popularity, with more and more South Aussies learning to grow their own food. But have you ever thought of growing your own food as more than a pastime, and actually an important branch of agriculture?Some hardcore green thumbs rely on their garden as their main source of food, while others simply grow the occasional herb on their windowsill. No matter your yield or experience, if you’ve dabbled in growing your own food, you might be considered an urban farmer.In this episode, we talk to PhD student Hannah Thwaites, whose thesis is connecting the world of science and people by researching Adelaide‘s urban farming scene. Join us for a chat to see how the humble garden can bring together communities and persevere under a changing climate. Whether you’re a green thumb, or horticulturally hopeful, there is something for everyone in this episode!CREDITS Host: Elisabeth WilliamsonProducers: Elisabeth Williamson and Kiri MarkerCopywriting and distribution: Jacob MaherMusic: Darcy Whittaker The BSSA podcast is supported by the Biology Society of South Australia For more on the BSSA, head to our website www.biologysocietysa.com or follow us on instagram @biologysocietysa, facebook and twitter @BiolSocSA

Marna Banggara means "healthy, prosperous country," and it's the fitting name of an ambitious rewilding project on Narungga Country, Yorke Peninsula. The project is reintroducing the Yalgi, or brush-tailed bettong, which was once widespread across the region. In this episode, we sit down with Chloe Frick, a PhD candidate whose research focuses on the reintroduction of these vital ecosystem engineers. Chloe shares with us the ecosystem benefits of the Yalgi's reintroduction and the innovative methods used in the Marna Banggara project. We also explore the challenges faced during the process as Yalgi behaviour can be a little unpredictable. Despite the challenges, the project is a standout example of a successful animal reintroduction. Tune in to learn about the future of the Marna Banggara project and the promising potential for the Yalgi to thrive in diverse landscapes. And if you ever decide to visit, remember to drive slowly to protect these incredible creatures.Marna Banggara is jointly funded by the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board, the Australian Government, the South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service, WWF-Australia, and Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife, in partnership with the Narungga Nation Aboriginal Corporation.You can follow Chloe on Instagram @chloe_frick. For more info on the Marna Banggara project check out marnabanggara.com.auCREDITSHost: Adam ToomesProducers: Adam Toomes and Kiri MarkerCopywriting and distribution: Jacob MaherMusic: Darcy Whittaker

Join us as we sit down with Megan Folwell, a Ph.D. student from the University of Adelaide, whose groundbreaking research made headlines in 2022. Megan, along with her supervisors, made waves with their unprecedented discovery: snakes have clitorises. In this episode, we embark on a journey with Megan as she unveils the intricacies of snake clitorises, providing the first comprehensive description of these enigmatic structures, known as hemiclitores. Through her groundbreaking research, Megan has expanded our understanding of reptilian anatomy, paving the way for future exploration into the world of female reproductive biology that illuminates the critical role of female reproductive biology in shaping evolutionary trajectories. Follow along with Megan’s journey on Twitter @FolwellMegan, or Instagram @clitohiss.CREDITSHost: Kiri MarkerProducers: Kiri Marker and Elisabeth WilliamsonCopywriting and distribution: Adam Toomes and Jacob MaherMusic: Darcy Whittaker

Are possum parties disrupting your slumber? We sit down with Tara McKenzie, a PhD student from the University of Adelaide, and delve into the nocturnal antics of urban brushtail possums. In this enlightening podcast, Tara unpacks her research on these adaptable creatures and their secret urban lives. Despite their common presence, she exposes the conservation risks they face, challenging our perception of their success in cities. Learn about their quirky diets (peanut butter, anyone?), vital ecological roles, and how to coexist peacefully with them. This engaging discussion will equip you with the know-how to turn your garden into a wildlife haven and give you a newfound appreciation for the symphony of sounds from your furry neighbours. So next time the dusk chorus begins, you'll know the crucial role these creatures play in our urban ecosystem.Find Tara here!https://www.adelaide-parklands.asn.au/blogtwitter.com/taradoesscienceCREDITSHost: Elisabeth WilliamsonProducers: Elisabeth Williamson & Adam ToomesCopywriting and distribution: Jasmin Broadbridge and Jacob MaherMusic: Darcy Whittaker

What's big, emits the stench of decaying flesh, and draws crowds of thousands? It's none other than the Amorphophallus titanum, commonly known as the corpse flower! In this episode, our guest Matt Coulter, the horticultural curator for the Botanic Gardens of South Australia, enlightens us about this botanical rockstar and much more.Embark on a damp and misty expedition through the Mt. Lofty Botanical Gardens with Matt as he guides our hosts, Alex and Kiri. Explore the Amorphophallus palace, a glasshouse where this master of disguise thrives and reproduces. Then, venture into other shade houses and nurseries where some of our state's most endangered flora are cultivated for conservation.Following the tour, Alex, Kiri, and Matt delve into the topic of plant conservation over a cup of tea. Discover Matt's personal journey into horticulture and the significance of botanical gardens in preserving plant species. So come join us, even if you've forgotten your umbrella – there's much to explore!BONUS: Some of the corpse flowers in their leaf growth phase are on display now at the Adelaide Botanical Gardens in the Amazon Waterlily Pavilion and the Rainforest Conservatory!You can follow the Botanical Gardens on Facebook @AdelaideBotanicGarden, instagram @botanicgardenssa and twitter @botgardenssa.CREDITS Host: Alex Chu and Kiri MarkerProducer: Kiri MarkerEditor: Adam ToomesCopywriting and distribution: Jacob MaherMusic: Darcy Whittaker The BSSA podcast is supported by the Biology Society of South Australia For more on the BSSA, head to our website www.biologysocietysa.com or follow us on instagram @biologysocietysa, facebook and twitter @BiolSocSA

How can we strengthen the bond between people, our landscape and cultural ways of learning?The BSSA podcast is excited to present In The Spotlight, featuring voices of conservation within South Australia that you may not have heard of.Our first guest is Mark Koolmatrie, a Ramindjeri man of the Ngarrindjeri Nation, Chairperson of the State Aboriginal Heritage Committee, founder and educator. Mark uses his wisdom and knowledge to ensure culture is strong and ever present. If you enjoyed this conversation and want to learn more, join Mark on a tour through his website or follow him on twitter @KoolmatrieMarkCREDITSHost: Kiri MarkerProducers: Colette Blyth, Elisabetta Canteri, Tyler Dornan, Tori Love and Adam ToomesMusic: Darcy WhittakerThe BSSA podcast is supported by the Biology Society of South AustraliaFor more on the BSSA, head to our website www.biologysocietysa.com or follow us on instagram @biologysocietysa and twitter @BiolSocSA

In lieu of our annual BBQ and presentation, we have taken to our podcast to bring you this special Q&A panel. This recording brings together professionals from the industry to communicate some insights and grounding knowledge to the budding career conservationist or environmental scientist.Is it important to study the right taxon, or just get something done? What are the strengths of government and non-government conservation? What is it that is truly rewarding in conservation careers? What is most challenging? Find the answers and much more in this episode.Featuring Vicki-Jo Russell AM, Dr Dan Rogers, Jody Gates, and Dr Wendy Telfer. Hosted by Adam Toomes, edited by Kiri Marker, and produced by the BSSA committee.

In this special episode of the BSSA Podcast host Bradley Bianco takes listeners on a short audio guided tour of the South Port Noarlunga Dunes system. The tour starts at the northern trailhead of a track that winds its way through these rare relics of sand hills that would have once spanned the Adelaide Coast. On the tour we have a look at many of the dune's native plants, listen out for some native animals, appreciate the views from the top of the tallest dune and learn about edible plants found growing in the sand. The tour starts here: [https://goo.gl/maps/eVs52c2nU6S7hUXw5] Enjoy!

In today's episode host Bradley Bianco sits down with President of the Friends of Black Hill and Morialata Conservation Parks group, Liz Milner. Liz shares her story of how she became involved in the prominent Adelaide-based Friends Group and some of the amazing work that the Group has done to restore habitat for many species of Threatened fauna. Liz also goes into detail about her ground-breaking strategy to engage a younger audience in on-ground conservation work here in our own backyard. For more info on getting involved with the Friends Group, visit https://www.fobhm.org/ and check out their Social Media at https://www.facebook.com/fobhm.org/

What makes a species invasive? Turns out there's a lot of human behaviour at play between taking a species from the wild, and it becoming invasive in Australia. The story includes a complex pet trade, which is an ermergent global issue for wildlife. PhD Candidate Adam Toomes joins us to discuss the dynamics of alien vertebrate species establishing populations in Australia, and the key stages that we need to be looking at to combat the issue. Hosted by Bradely Bianco and featuring Adam Toomes, PhD candidate at the University of Adelaide. Adam is working with the Invasion Science and Wildlife Ecology research team. For part one of 'The Illegal Wildlife Trade', see episode three of the BSSA Podcast. Produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Kiri Marker; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia.

It takes a lot to make a conservation happen. People and communities, and behaviour shifts are all essential ingredients, as well as as science and biology. PhD candidate Matt Bowie joins us to talk about social marketing, behavior, and economics in conservation projects, and how they come together for his study topic, coffee sustainability. Hosted by Bradely Bianco and featuring Matt Bowie, PhD candidate at the University of Adelaide. Follow Matt on all the social media channels: @bowscovery . Produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Adam Toomes; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia.

Episode fourteen welcomes Tristan O'brien, an ecologist and environmentalist passionate about fostering a connection to nature. We have a chat with Tristan about relating to the land and nature around us, individually and as a society. Tristan draws on his experience running conservation awareness campaigns, and educating others about tuning into nature. Hosted by Bradely Bianco and featuring Tristan O'brien. Learn more about Tristan's work at https://www.1900footprints.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/1900Footprints instagram: @1900Footprints Produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Adam Toomes; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia.

The Nature Conservation Society of South Austrlalia (NCSSA) is one of the core environmental organisations in the state, having helped to establish iconic parks like Deep Creek, and pushing for the original establishment of a department for the environment. We welcomed Michael and Julia from the society to talk about what they are up to now, and the state of the environment in South Australia. Featuring the NCSSA, represented by President Michael Stead and Nature Advocate Julia Peacock. You can learn about the NCSSA and their numerous projects, including opportunities to simply enjoy our local nature, here: http://www.ncssa.asn.au/ https://www.facebook.com/natureconservationsocietysa Hosted by Bradely Bianco and produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Adam Toomes; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia.

Knowing about biology is one thing - but what about the interactions our society has with biological systems? The proposal for developments in the Flinders Chase National Park on Kangaroo Island has become a pivotal conservation issue. Volunteers for the park have put down their tools to lead a counter campaign. We had Bev Maxwell and Colin Wilson on the podcast to tell us what is happening, why they are campaigning against the development, and how they are going about it. Hosted by Bradely Bianco and featuring Bev Maxwell and Colin Wilson, campaigning at Public Parks Not Private Playgrounds: www.facebook.com/publicparksNOTprivateplaygrounds/ or https://ppnotpp.org/ Produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Adam Toomes; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia. *** You can be informed. Native Vegetation Council Minutes are uploaded at at https://tinyurl.com/y6w9p6gy ***The Ammendments to the Park management plan are at https://tinyurl.com/y26kn5ve

Parasitic plants are a component of most ecosystems, and in our native environments they may play a key role. Episode eleven of the BSSA Podcast welcomes PhD candidate Bernardo J. O'Connor in a conversation about the native parasitic vine Cassytha pubescens, and it's potential as a bio-control of invasive plants. Hosted by Bradley Bianco and featuring Bernardo J. O'Connor. Follow Bernardo on twitter: @FacelliEcoLab Produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Adam Toomes; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia.

Dr Kieren Mitchell joins us for a conversation delving deepinto ancient DNA, from it's technical challenges to how it's helping us understand Australia's extinct megafauna. Hosted by Bradely Bianco and featuring Dr Kieren Mitchell. Follow Kieren's research through the Australian Centre for Ancient DNA: @ACAD_Adelaide on Twitter, and @ACAD.Adelaide on Facebook. Produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Adam Toomes; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia.

Episode nine of the BSSA Podcast explores the microbiome, a wonderful world of microbes that has been there all along, but hasn't always been explored. Dr Raphael Eisenhofer from the University of Adelaide joins us to discuss the significance of microbiomes, both for ourselves, other organisms. Hosted by Bradely Bianco and featuring Dr Raphael Eisenhofer. Follow Raphael on twitter: @r_eisenhoffer. Produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Adam Toomes; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia.

Citizen science, genes, and the surprisingly un-quantified lives of our much-loved echidnas. In episode eight of the BSSA podcast we are joined by Tahlia Perry, a PhD candidate at the University of Adelaide and one of the main drivers behind the Echidna Conservation Science Initiative (Echidna CSI). Hosted by Bradley Bianco and featuring Tahlia Perry. Find out more about Echidna CSI by following @echidna_csi. Produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Adam Toomes; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia.

Cephalotus, the Albany Pitcher Plant, is a spectacularly unique carnivorous plant living in the swamps of South-West Western Australia. Cephalotus expert Nick Kalfas joins us in a conversation about carnivorous plants, plant-animal interactions, and the spectacular endemism seen in this species and in the flora Australia. Hosted by Bradley Bianco and featuring Nick Kalfas, PhD candidate at The University of Adelaide. You can find Nick's monogram on Cephalotus here: https://cephalotus.redfernnaturalhistory.com/product/book/. Follow Nick, and quizz him on the best flora destinatios in WA, at instagram.com/kalfasn. Produced by Christopher Jolly and Myall Tarran; promoted by Adam Toomes; intro music by Darcy Whittaker; and support from the Biology Society of South Australia.