The desertSMART EcoFair again shone a spotlight on science and sustainability in Central Australia, from the 7th-9th 2020 August as part of National Science Week.
Organised by the Arid Lands Environment Centre, 2020 was desertSMART EcoFair’s 12th year of educating, inspiring and activating the community around science and sustainability.
Festival highlights included a panel with Traditional Owners on how bush communities are managing their Country and a look at the emerging hemp industry.
This year the EcoFair kicked off with an Outdoor Cinema at the Botanic Garden for a retrospective to honour the life and works of Central Australian filmmaker David Nixon who passed away earlier this year
“The three-day program was full of interesting and exciting events to help get the community actively engaged in discussions and actions that contribute positively toward our region’s sustainability."
Friday 7th August
ABC Outside Broadcast @ Olive Pink Botanic Gardens
Local ABC radio presenter Paul Saratore hosted the outside broadcast from Bean Tree Cafe at Olive Pink Botanic Gardens.
David Nixon - Country, People, Technology @ Olive Pink Botanic Gardens
A retrospective of David Nixon showcasing works created and co-created by David Nixon about people and sustainability in Central Australia. Works
Saturday 8th August
Hemp Territory @ Olive Pink Botanic Gardens
An exploration of the science behind hemp farming and the benefits and opportunities for expansion of the hemp industry in the Northern Territory.
Climate Change in Central Australia @ Olive Pink Botanic Gardens
A robust discussion about the uncertain future that climate change poses for Central Australia and the community leaders that are stepping up in the face of what climate science shows is ahead. Speakers include Anne Mooney (Central Australian Aboriginal Congress), Michael Liddle (Desert Knowledge Australia), Norman Frank and Geoff Evans (Julalikari Council Aboriginal Corporation), facilitated by Walbira Murray.
Desert Knowledge Precinct Tour: Exploring Science and Culture on Country @ Desert Knowledge Precinct
ExoFair goers enjoyed a guided tour starting with a Welcome to Precinct, and then a tour of the DKA Solar Centre, Precinct grounds and partner organisations. People got to see solar arrays and ground satellites, arts and culture, and learnt about Indigenous land management.
Sunday 9th August
Garden Gurus Tour @ Alice Springs Community Garden
Local gardener gurus Geoff Miers, Bruce Simmons and Costa (tuning in virtually!) shared tips for growing food in Alice Springs as part of a guided tour of the thriving community garden.
