Botanist Stephen Hopper hits Margaret River for ‘unique’ biodiversity Nature Conservation talk

Residents will be offered a unique insight into the region’s native flora when renowned botanist and conservation biologist Stephen Hopper visits town early next month. The director of Perth’s Kings Park and Botanic Gardens will speak as part of Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s Sundowner Series at the Margaret River Heart/ Nala Bardip Mia on November 7. The talk will focus on the rare plants of the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge that the famed biologist says is truly “like nowhere else on earth”. Sundowner Series organiser Jodie Passmore urged interested parties to book their tickets fast. “Stephen brings 50 years of experience observing the unique endemism of our region, and is a leader in his field after developing a new theory on the evolution and conservation of biodiversity on the world’s oldest landscapes,” Ms Passmore said. “This will be a fascinating evening for anyone in our community with an interest in nature, or who wants to learn more. “We hope you can join us for light supper and a drink while Stephen shares his unique insight and love for the iconic flora of the Margaret River region, followed by an audience Q&A.” Dr Hopper is currently based in Albany at the University of WA’s Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management with a focus researching the evolution, ecology, conservation and Indigenous knowledge of global biodiversity hotspots. He has also worked at the World Heritage-listed Royal Botanic Gardens Kew in London, and was WA’s first flora conservation research officer in 1977. Undalup Association’s Zac Webb will offer a welcome to country and join the Q&A panel on the night. Nature Conservation chair Ann Ward said the Sundowner Series was “an excellent opportunity for robust discussion from a range of perspectives in the Margaret River region”. Dr Ward said living in the region came with a responsibility “to be an informed community” taking care of the natural environment. Tickets to the event are $25 and available via natureconservation.org.au.