Have you ever seen a platypus in the wild?

Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. is holding a Platypus Watch survey! The event will help to record observations of platypus to help scientists monitor these shy mammals. This research aims to find out how platypus are doing during the effects of climate change, flood and drought.

There will be a survey on 3 different creek systems on Sunday, 11 August from 4.45am. The best time to observe platypus is just after dawn, so you must be prepared to sit quietly for up to 2 hours observing a creek on a cold winter morning.

To be a volunteer for this event, you must register your expression of interest before ticket sales close on July 30. Only registered ticket holders will be supplied with survey information.  Places are limited so please register as soon as possible.

Please note:

• Please complete and return survey information and volunteer attendance forms by 11 August for insurance & safety purposes
• This event is not suitable for children under 12 years as it is near water
• All volunteers will need their own or shared transport to reach the locations.

On Sunday 11 August, all volunteers will need to sign in and attend the induction and information session. This will take place at the meeting point car park on Ian Keiler Drive, Springfield Central. After the sign-in & induction, you will be given your survey site and escorted in a vehicle convoy to your viewing location.

We recommend you bring:

• A head torch
• A folding chair
• A camera to take a photo if you see a platypus
• Binoculars (very useful but not essential)

You are welcome to bring earphones to listen to music and a thermos of hot beverages to stay comfortable while you're watching for platypus.

After the watch ends, we will hold a continental breakfast to reward your efforts. Join us for coffee, croissants, yoghurt and fruit at Robelle Domain.