Have you ever wondered about water bugs and why they’re important? What about people’s relationship with nature? Or the difference in frog calls?

Answering all of these questions and more, The Ginninderry Research Showcase offers a unique opportunity for the public to meet the researchers behind some of the science happening in their backyard.

Taking place next Wednesday 24 July, from 6 pm until 8 pm at The Link, The Ginninderry Research Showcase is presented by Ginninderry in partnership with the Ginninderry Conservation Trust – and unlike traditional research showcases, it promises to be a night full of fun.

With over 30 researchers presenting 14 years of research, everything from frogs to foxes will be discussed, diving deep into a gem hidden in the treasure box that is Ginninderry.

“What makes Ginninderry different from a typical developer is we have done quite a lot of extra research into the ways that we create spaces and the impact that might have on the natural environment,” explains Head of Sustainability & Community Development, Jessica Stewart.

“All of the research done at Ginninderry is fully publicly available…this is all about bringing it to our residents and the public in a way that’s a bit more digestible.”

With researchers from the University of Canberra, the Australian National University, landcare groups, and more delivering three-minute pitches, the night will be a fun insight into the wonders of research projects in Ginninderry.

And for those who consider themselves citizen scientists, there will also be plenty of opportunities to get your hands dirty and test your skills.

“There’ll be a poster hall that you can wander through, and you can meet the scientists behind the research and ask them questions,” says Jess.

“You can help us sort water bugs that we’ll bring in from the dam at the back of The Link – the researchers will be there to help identify them. There will be dung beetles on display and even a competition to see who can guess the frog it is by the call!”.

Attendees will also have their say on future research projects, there will be some light refreshments provided and all ages are welcome to get involved. And the best part? Attendance is free (but registration is essential).

It’s backyard science at its best.

“It’s always really great to see a researcher light up when they talk about the topic that they’ve been spending many years researching and seeing the impact on the way that we have designed Ginninderry,” says Jess.

“I’ll also be glad to see residents and local community members here learning. I think that’s the main thing I want to see and what I’m really excited about – that we can share the knowledge so that we’re all better custodians of the land.”

The Ginninderry Research Showcase will be held from 6 pm – 8 pm on Wednesday 24 July at The Link, 1 McClymont Way, Strathnairn. Tickets + more information from eventbrite.com.au