Until recently, BOCA’s public education program within MELBOCA’s area has been the responsibility of BOCA’s Education Coordinator, Annette Cook – whereas some branches have implemented their own education programs with Annette providing any necessary back-up.

BOCA’s view is that the best use of the Education Coordinator’s time and expertise is for Annette to oversee the work of all branches, develop resources and where necessary, provide training to enable branch members to effectively carry out vital education work in their areas.  In line with this view, MELBOCA now has Janet Hand as the MELBOCA Education Coordinator.

Janet, with the help of volunteers, is implementing a program aimed at increasing the public’s knowledge of Australian native birds, their habitat and needs, and important conservation issues.

Recent MELBOCA Education Activities

• Library Displays

BOCA displays were set up at Box Hill Library, The Pines Library, East Doncaster & Wheelers Hill Library, from 1 to 30 November 2009.

• Australian Birdfair, Leeton, NSW

BOCA had displays at this important annual event at Leeton, NSW, 13 to 15 November 2009. Friday, 13 November 2009 had the theme 'Parrots on Parade' for the numerous children from neighbouring schools that attended the Birdfair.

• Talk & Walk at Lyndale Primary School, Dandenong

Annette Cook gave a presentation introducing birds to the pupils at Lyndale Primary School on 18 November 2009. This was followed by a walk with the pupils around the Dandenong Creek Wetlands identifying the birds on Tuesday 24 November 2009.

• Maryvale Aged Care Facility visit to National Office

A craft activity session and talk about small birds in the garden was conducted at National Office, for residents of Maryvale Aged Care Facility 9:30 to 11.30 am, on Tuesday 24 November 2009.

Many of the education activities are a valuable fund raiser for and/or an opportunity to promote BOCA and MELBOCA. These activities will only happen happen with the assistance of volunteers.  Please help Janet so thatsimilar projects can be an ongoing part of MELBOCA’s program.  Volunteers are not left on their own and are supported by experienced volunteers when assisting BOCA or MELBOCA on education activities.

Interested volunteers please contact Janet Hand (Tel: 9842 4177 or info@melboca.org.au) or Annette Cook at BOCA National Office (Tel: 9877 5342 or a.cook@boca.org.au).

Crescent Honeyeater
Photograph by Sonja Ross