Biodiversity Month aims to promote the importance of protecting, conserving and improving biodiversity both within Australia and across the world.

The Cessnock local government area is home to a very diverse range of plant and animal species that live in distinctive and unique ecosystems.

Cessnock City Library will host a free talk each Tuesday in September and on the first Tuesday of October from 5.30pm to 6.45pm.

There will also be a ‘Talk and Walk’ event on Thursday, October 5 where locals will hear from Birdlife Australia’s Mick Roderick about why Cessnock is a key location for many woodland bird species. This will be followed by a walk in Werakata National Park to look for and identify local birds.

Biodiversity Month celebrations conclude with the Biodiversity Bonanza and native plant giveaway at Cessnock Men’s Shed and Community Garden on Saturday, October 7 from 9am to 1pm. 

Come along to view displays, talk to experts, join the Habitat Stepping Stones program and collect two free native plants and a bag of compost.

Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent encourages locals to go along to one or all of these events.

“There are some fantastic speakers secured for these events, which will be both fun and educational for adults and children alike,” he said.

All Biodiversity Month events are free, but bookings are essential. Reserve your place today by contacting the team at Cessnock City Library on 4993 4399.