On 24 April 2026 from 8.30-10.00 am, twenty-seven enthusiastic participants, ranging in age from 5 to 84 years, joined naturalist Callum Clarke from Life Gone Wild for an inspiring guided nature walk through Nettleton Park, auspiced by the City of Boroondara.
Blessed with a warm sunny morning, the group enjoyed a fascinating exploration of the park’s rich biodiversity. Participants were delighted to spot an impressive range of birdlife including Gang-gang Cockatoos, Currawongs, Tawny Frogmouths, King Parrots, Musk Lorikeets, Swallows, Spotted Doves, Galahs, Kookaburras, Butcherbirds, Crested Pigeons and more.
Callum shared his extensive knowledge throughout the walk, pointing out the nesting boxes installed high in the eucalypts in 2023, explaining how these have already provided homes for ringtail possums and a pair of Rainbow Lorikeets. He also identified a drey – the leafy nest of a brushtail possum, where they rest and sleep and also where the Tawny Frogmouths perch.
The event attracted strong interest, with most attendees learning about the walk through the Boroondara Bulletin e-news. Interestingly, no participants reported seeing the notices displayed in the park. Most attendees were local Boroondara residents, although five participants travelled from outside the municipality. Apart from members of the Friends Group, many participants came from outside the Glen Iris 3146 postcode area, demonstrating the wider appeal of the event.
The walk also reflected the diversity of our community, with more than half of attendees born overseas. One participant attended with his son, who kindly acted as interpreter, while several visitors from Brazil enthusiastically enjoyed practising their English as they explored the park together.
All attendees were highly engaged and enthusiastic, with many commenting on the quality of Callum’s descriptions and the enjoyment of discovering wildlife in such a special local setting. The event was a wonderful reminder that nature has the power to bring people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures together.
Special thanks to Callum Clarke and Life Gone Wild, and the City of Boroondara, for making this community event possible.
Ruthie Scharley, Back2Nettleton Friends Group 11/05/2026