Published on Tuesday, 5 September 2023 at 10:56:29 AM
MEDIA RELEASE
Narrogin Regional Herbarium Returns to the Public Spotlight
The Narrogin Regional Herbarium, a treasure trove of botanical knowledge, is once again open to the public. Located at the Narrogin & Dryandra Visitors Centre, within the newly refurbished Railway Station, this valuable resource promises to be a source of fascination and education for all.
This reopening is the culmination of dedicated efforts by various organisations and individuals. The herbarium, which had been housed at the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions (DBCA) for many years, was recently gifted to the Shire of Narrogin. Shire President Leigh Ballard in acknowledging the donation, stated “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the former members of the Central South Naturalist Club and to Greg Durrell, Regional Manager of DBCA, for facilitating this significant opportunity to bring the herbarium back into the public domain”.
The Narrogin Regional Herbarium is more than just a collection of pressed and mounted plant specimens; it is a testament to the dedication of individuals who have tirelessly worked to preserve the rich botanical heritage of the region. In particular, the herbarium stands as a tribute to the unwavering commitment of Gwen Warren, Pat Rose, and Carol Taylor, but all of whom were former passionate members of the Central South Naturalist Club. Mr Ballard added, “These individuals devoted countless hours to the meticulous preparation of specimens, ensuring their lasting value for scientific research and public appreciation”.
Visitors to the Narrogin & Dryandra Visitors Centre can already enjoy a portion of the Herbarium dedicated to Foxes Lair and its native wildflowers, which are currently in full bloom (September-October). The display will change regularly to reflect the seasons, offering a dynamic experience for those interested in the region's botanical diversity. Furthermore, the entire Herbarium Collection will be accessible upon request, ensuring that all members of the public have the opportunity to explore and learn from this remarkable resource.
Dr. Neville Marchant, WA Herbarium curator, once described taxonomy as a means of understanding and preserving biodiversity. The Narrogin Regional Herbarium is a living testament to the importance of documenting and conserving our natural heritage.
Doug Sawkins, Friends of Foxes Lair and also a Narrogin & Dryandra Visitor Centre Volunteer and Anna Prysiazhna, Community Development Officer of the Shire of Narrogin were on hand to receive the generous gift from the DBCA.
Ms Prysiazhna noted, “Why not come and discover the wonders of Narrogin's botanical world at the Narrogin & Dryandra Visitors Centre. The Herbarium is a beacon of knowledge and a tribute to the dedicated individuals who have made it possible”.
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Further information on this media release may be obtained by Anna Prysiazhna, cdo2@narrogin.wa.gov.au or telephone 08 9890 0923.
Pictures: Doug Sawkins, Friends of Foxes Lair and also Narrogin & Dryandra Visitor Centre Volunteer and Anna Prysiazhna, Community Development Officer of the Shire of Narrogin.
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