Events

 Our cities and suburbs are becoming increasingly brighter at night. New York can no longer claim to be the only ‘City That Never Sleeps’. But what impact is this having on our plants and wildlife –especially species in urban areas? Ecologist Monique Burns leads this fascinating Masterclass about what is really going on in your garden at night and the impacts of the loss of ‘dark sky’. Nocturnal wildlife have evolved for dark environments, and many species provide important functions in your garden once the sun sets.  Monique will cover: 

• Night time pollination- who’s doing what and when 

• The effects of artificial Light at night (ALAN) on pollinators 

• Tips for minimising effects of ALAN on wildlife 

Join us for an illuminating (pun intended!) Masterclass on why turning off landscape and building lighting can benefit not only your energy bill, but your garden’s health as well! 

All sessions are recorded and participants will receive the recording link which is active for two weeks. Friends of SGA receive a 15% discount on Masterclass full price tickets. You can become a Friend of SGA here. Green Garden Professional (GGPs) receive a 30% discount.

Bio 

Passionate about Australia’s biodiversity, Monique completed a BSc at the University of Melbourne before embarking on her Honours year in 2022 investigating urban bee communities at different vegetation types. Monique has worked in the nursery industry, in environmental education at the Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuay, and as an educator and coordinator at the not-for-profit Planting Seeds. She has also contributed to research and maintenance of direct-seeded indigenous meadows while a Research Assistant at the University of Melbourne. Monique is now based in Dubbo, working as an ecologist with NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service.