Internationally recognised botanist Professor Kingsley Dixon AO will headline Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s end-of-year celebration at Tanah Marah on Tuesday, November 17.
The special evening will bring members together to celebrate a year of conservation achievements and look ahead to the future of the South West’s unique natural environment.
Named the 2026 WA Senior Australian of the Year, Professor Dixon will deliver a keynote address titled A Future for the Southwest Biodiversity Hotspot that Respects the Past. His presentation will explore how science, traditional knowledge and practical action can help protect our region’s globally significant biodiversity.
Meet Professor Kingsley Dixon
Professor Kingsley Dixon is a world-leading botanist whose work has helped transform native plant conservation in Australia and beyond.
As Foundation Director of Science at Kings Park and Botanic Garden, he built a research team into one of the world’s leading botanic garden science centres. His groundbreaking research revealed how smoke triggers seed germination in Australian plants after bushfires. This discovery reshaped our understanding of how native plants regenerate following fire.
Today, Professor Dixon continues to champion conservation through science, community education and Indigenous-led native seed programs. He also works to improve mine-site rehabilitation and promote better environmental outcomes.
His keynote will explore how we can combine scientific research, knowledge and practical conservation to safeguard the South West’s biodiversity. Importantly, it will also recognise the history and people who have cared for Country for generations.
Celebrating a Year of Conservation
Nature Conservation’s Acting General Manager Cass Jury said the celebration was an opportunity to recognise what people can achieve when they work together to protect the natural environment.
“It’s been a fantastic year for conservation, with so many people giving their time, energy and passion to protect the places and wildlife we all love,” Ms Jury said. “From restoring waterways and planting native species to tackling invasive weeds, caring for our coastline and connecting young people with nature, our community has made a real difference.
“This evening is about celebrating those achievements, thanking our members for being part of the journey and sharing our excitement for what we can achieve together in the years ahead.”
The celebration will highlight the many conservation wins across the Margaret River Region during 2026. It will also give members the chance to connect with fellow nature lovers and share ideas for the future.
Join Us at Tanah Marah
Nature Conservation warmly thanks Tanah Marah, the beautiful accommodation and events venue at Bramley, for hosting this special occasion.
Members are invited to arrive from 5pm for the organisation’s Annual General Meeting. Professor Kingsley Dixon’s keynote address and the end-of-year celebration will follow, running from 5.30pm to 7pm.
The event is open to Nature Conservation members, who will receive an RSVP invitation by email. Not yet a member? There’s still time to join. Non-members who would like to attend can sign up for membership by the end of this week. To find out more about membership and Nature Conservation’s work across the region, visit www.natureconservation.org.au.