Over two days in late May, the UNSW Centre for Ecosystem Science (CES) Lower Balonne Flow-MER team took our project to the people at the Narran Lakes Nature Reserve Open Day. 

Known as Dharriwaa, meaning ‘common meeting place’ in the local Yuwaalaraay language, Narran Lakes is an ideal location for an event that brings together the community to hear about how Traditional Owners, environmental managers, and scientists are protecting this important wetland system.

From Dirranbandi to Walgett and everywhere in between, busloads of students attended the event on the first day. 

Together with CEWH staff, the team shared information about the wetland’s importance and ecology. They also gave kids a taste of what being a scientist is like, with mini microscopes to peer through at flora and fauna specimens. 

Teachers took away Flow-MER information sheets and fun colouring-in activities to complete back in the classroom.

Day two was open to the whole community, and a diverse range of people attended, including local townspeople, farmers, opal miners, and a lucky few who just happened to be travelling through at the time.

Many people visited the Flow-MER tent to learn more about the Program and environmental water, with locals sharing stories about their experiences with the wetland system. 

Congratulations to the event coordinators, the Narran Lakes Nature Reserve Joint Management Committee and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service on a fantastic event. We’re looking forward to attending next year's event. 

Students visiting the Flow-MER tent at the Narran Lakes Nature Reserve Open Day.

Attendees were treated to a guided cultural tour of both Clear Lake (above) and Salt Lake (below) by members of the NPWS and Narran Lakes Joint Management Committee.