BMRG staff Ben Hoekstra and Keira McGrath travelled to Adelaide on 28–29 September to attend the 2026 Australasian Turtle Symposium, joining researchers, community groups and passionate turtle enthusiasts from across the country to share knowledge and discuss the conservation of freshwater turtles.
The two-day symposium provided a fantastic opportunity to hear about the latest research, conservation initiatives and community-led projects working to protect freshwater turtle species and their habitats. Ben and Keira also presented an update on BMRG’s freshwater turtle projects, highlighting the important work being undertaken across the Burnett Mary region.
From sharing practical experiences in the field to discussing emerging research and conservation challenges, the event provided valuable opportunities to connect with others working towards similar goals, exchange ideas and explore opportunities for future collaboration.
With freshwater turtles facing a range of threats, including habitat loss, invasive species and changing environmental conditions, events like this play an important role in bringing people together to strengthen conservation efforts.
It was a great opportunity for BMRG to showcase its work, learn from others and bring new ideas and connections back to the region to support the ongoing conservation of our native freshwater turtles.