Thirteen-year-old conservationist, environmental educator and photographer Spencer Hitchen has spent more than half of his life learning from many local, knowledgeable environmentalists.
Spencer’s thirst for knowledge about the natural world far exceeded the knowledge his parents could provide from books and the internet. They felt great relief when they found Noosa Parks Association’s Friday Environment Forum where members welcomed him with open arms, answering his endless questions about nature.
On 28 June Spencer will lead an intergenerational fun forum for youth and adults where attendees can learn from him and his mentors. Spencer will speak about his conservation journey and chair a panel discussion with young conservationists and his environmental heroes. There will be short interpretive walks about botany, birds, insects and fungi with local experts, workshops and stalls with conservation groups from across the Coast.
Spencer wants everyone to be inspired to Observe, Learn, Protect- their Local Environment. “I think all kids and adults love the environment and want to protect it, they just need a spark, an idea, to get started,” he said.
Meet the Bird Observers in the carpark at 8.30am to learn about the birds of Wallace Park or begin with morning tea at 10am whilst browsing the exhibits at the Noosa Parks Association Environment Centre, 5 Wallace Drive, Noosaville. Expert presentations for all ages are from 10.30am to 12pm. Entry is by donation by ‘Tap & Go’ on the day. All welcome.
