Entomologist Michelle Gleeson has never lost her childhood fascination for insects and loves nothing more than to share her passion and educate community, especially children, with her incredibly diverse knowledge of the insect world.
Known as ‘The Bug Lady’, Michelle will speak about her rewarding life as an entomologist, including working alongside her idol David Attenborough, and her popular insect identification book Miniature Lives at Redland Organic Growers Inc’s June 8 meeting at Alexandra Hills.
Ms Gleeson said it was important for us all to understand the role that insects play in our environment.
“Too often, our childhood love of insects fades as we grow up in a society where we are constantly told that bugs are bad, scary or disgusting,” she said.
“That’s why I love teaching children about insects – their love and fascination has not yet been tarnished.
“Insects provide eco-services, that is, jobs that we take for granted but which we rely upon to survive.
“Whether its bees pollinating our crops, dung beetles and maggots recycling nutrients, burrowing insects such as wasps increasing soil aeration and formation, or ants dispersing seeds and protecting them against fires, our ecosystems would collapse if not for the work of these tiny creatures.”
ROGI members ($2) and visitors ($5) are invited to hear Michelle speak at ROGI’s meeting on June 8 at 7pm (6.15pm to browse the library and other offerings) at Bayside Community Church, corner of McDonald and MacArthur Streets, Alexandra Hills.
Usual attractions include the seed bank and plant clinic, seedlings and plants, local honey, jams, wax wraps and more.
To join or renew memberships, visit rogi.com.au or ROGI’s display at IndigiScapes Environment and Community Fair on June 3.
