Millie Ross

She explores a bush reserve in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs with wildlife ecologist Dr Kaori Yokochi, who is a member of the network for ecological research on artificial light (NERAL). The reserve is home to possums, gliders, a range of birds including owls and microbats. Kaori uses a thermal scope to be able to monitor wildlife at night without using a bright light.

The National Insect Expo brings together experts, collectors and hobbyists to get together and share their passion. The show has been happening for three years, organised by retired entomologist Dr Bert Candusio. He is keen to highlight the importance of insects and invertebrates from a conservation point of view. “These animals here are the foundation of all ecological systems,” he says. His passion was probably kick-started by going on nature walks, aged three, with his grandfather.

Grower: Phil Vaughan Garden: Pomonal nursery and home garden Phil has been developing his plant propagation skills for decades and has been a pioneer in the art of commercially grafting some of Australia’s most rare, hard-to-grow and unusual plants. “It’s all about showing people what we’ve got in this country,” he says. He wants to change people’s perception of native plants to show the range, diversity and incredible colour and form they have.