The Secret Lives of Orchids

Next date: Monday, 14 September 2026 | 05:30 PM to 06:30 PM

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Think pollination is all about birds and bees? Think again.

Step into a hidden world of trickery, deception and remarkable survival. While most people think of bees and butterflies as pollinators, some of Australia's native orchids rely on tiny flies, elaborate disguises and clever evolutionary tricks to reproduce.

Join PhD candidate Brett O'Keeffe as he uncovers the fascinating relationships between orchids and insects, revealing how mimicry, deception and specialised pollination strategies help some of our most unique native plants survive. Discover the surprising stories hidden within our bushland and learn how understanding these intricate partnerships can help protect threatened orchid species for future generations.

Brett may be familiar to many locals from his hugely popular Christmas Beetle Mystery talk at Nowra Library last December, where he captivated audiences with the incredible science behind one of Australia's most beloved insects. This time, he's back to share another fascinating chapter from the natural world, offering a glimpse into the secret lives of orchids and the tiny flies that hold the key to their survival.

Perfect for nature lovers, gardeners, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone curious about the wonders of the natural world.