Be a citizen scientist, support wildlife, this Spring Outdoors

Published on 02 September 2026

Love spending time in nature? Why not turn your outdoor adventures into something that helps local wildlife and plants too.

The much-loved Spring Outdoors program is back for 2026 and once again delivered through a collaboration between Manningham, Banyule City and Nillumbik Shire Councils.

This year’s program offers over 50 diverse activities throughout spring, from gardening with native plants to local bird counts.

It’s the ideal way to enjoy the warmer weather, learn new skills and connect with the nature and community.

A key focus of this year’s Spring Outdoors program is supporting citizen science in Nillumbik.

Citizen scientists are everyday people who contribute valuable information about our environment by recording observations, such as counting birds in the backyard, taking photos of a platypus on a riverside walk or capturing frog calls.

Not only is it fun, but findings can help scientists and land managers better protect Nillumbik’s unique plant and animals. Every sighting counts. Whether you spot common or threatened wildlife or even pest animals, observations support important conservation programs.

Mayor Naomi Joiner encouraged locals to embark on citizen science journeys this Spring Outdoors.  

“Citizen science is just one more great reason to enjoy Nillumbik nature this spring. Recording your observations and letting us know what you see and hear in your backyard and beyond is a concrete way to make a difference.”

“The more people who take part, the more we can understand about what’s happening right across Nillumbik.”

Getting started

During Spring Outdoors, join us for citizen science events during the Aussie Bird Count (19 to 25 October) and the Great Southern BioBlitz (27 to 30 November).

Or why not borrow one of our free Biodiversity in Backyards Kits and uncover the wildlife living right outside your door. It includes a motion-triggered camera, as well as a songmeter to record bird calls and other wildlife sounds.

Explore the full Spring Outdoors program.

Learn more about citizen science opportunities in Nillumbik.