General News
13 August, 2026
Explore world of shorebirds
EVER wondered who the feathered travellers which visit the Cassowary Coast each year and where have they come from?
For the August edition of Science in the Pub, Simon Kennedy from BirdLife Australia will explore the world of shorebirds.
Learn about the region’s familiar local residents, the migratory species that cross continents to reach the coastline and why the Cassowary Coast provides such important habitat.
Mr Kennedy will also explain the recent arrival of H5 bird flu in Australia, what it could mean for Queensland’s birds and how the community can help keep watch safely.
The event is at the Shanti Cafe Mission Beach, 37 Porter Promenade, Mission Beach, at 5.30pm on Tuesday 18 August. Bookings are essential by calling 0435 166 656 to reserve a table.
Mr Kennedy is the wetlands and coastal birds coordinator for BirdLife Australia, based in North Queensland.
His work focuses on the conservation and monitoring of shorebirds and coastal species, including threatened nesting birds such as terns and beach stone-curlews.
“I contribute to research, field surveys and habitat protection across the region, working with communities, volunteers and partners to improve outcomes for Australia’s coastal bird populations,” Mr Kennedy said.
He is involved with Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s shorebird and sea turtle monitoring program.
Mr Kennedy delivered the training at the first volunteer session last month.
Program volunteer Craig Gilbert said it was “incredibly informative and I really enjoyed the discussions throughout the day”.
“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone get involved in the project and to building a better understanding of our region’s shorebird populations through the data we collect,” he said.
“I think this project comes at a particularly important time, given the potential arrival of H5 bird flu and having strong baseline monitoring in place will be invaluable,” Mr Gilbert said.
“Thanks again for all the work you’ve put into getting this project underway.”
Anyone interested in taking part can email: shorebirdseaturtle@ccrc.qld.gov.au to express an interest or find out more about upcoming training sessions.
The program is supported by the Queensland Government under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangement (DRFA).
Read More: Mission Beach