MPavilion Opening November 2020

Come one, come all intrepid ecologists in the making! What life dwells in the ponds surrounding MPavilion and how does it determine the health of the water? Why are leaves shaped the way they are? Why are plants and trees important? What action can you take to help make a positive difference to the planet? Bug Blitz will engage kids in learning about biodiversity and the life around MPavilion in a series of hands-on workshops combining science and the arts.

Come along and meet some spiders, find out what lives in the shrubs and the waterhole around MPavilion and identify birds and bones. Discover the complex ecosystems teeming within the Queen Victoria Gardens in this plantastic opportunity to connect with nature and the many critters within.

Environmental educator, author, naturalist, Dr John Caldow, will introduce the audience to some common arachnids and insects, with stories that build an understanding about the little things that run the world. Working with participants, John will demonstrate how to conduct a quick bug survey in the grounds around the MPavilion, using nets and beating trays. There’ll be plenty of opportunities for ‘hands on’ experiences – taste edible bugs, ease arachnophobia and for the young ones, make a Fingerprint Bug Brooch to take home.

Bug Blitz environmental educator and naturalist, Erin Nowak, will undertake ‘hands on’ macro-invertebrate (water bugs) net sampling in the ponds around the MPavilion. Using digital microscopes and other tools, audience members can examine more closely what they find, learning how to assess water health using bugs as indicators. Erin will guide participants through testing pH, salinity and turbidity, demonstrating the basic suite of tests used to assess pond, stream and river health.

ARTea Art School founder, printmaker, painter and master arts educator, Helen Pollard, will celebrate art for all ages. Helen will offer participants the opportunity to learn how to paint their own Sacred Kingfisher onto a pre cut-out bird shape, to make into fridge magnet to take home.

Workshops are targeted for ages 5–12yrs, however they will be suitable for all ages of people: parents and adults can also participate. Please book your places via Eventbrite.

This MKids event is open to kids of all ages and abilities. MPavilion is pram-friendly, a short distance across grass via paths accessed from St Kilda Road.

This event is made possible by the Hugh D T Williamson Foundation through funding for MPavilion’s Design & Science series of events.