“The Great Southern Science Council partnered with the Denmark Bird Group in late October to present an art–science collaboration centred on the miracle of the two million migrating shorebirds that fly thousands of kms to Australia each year, and formed part of the Overwintering Project and the Brave New Works Festival.

Over 50 people attended the event, which was held at the Denmark Artshouse. Vivienne Robertson, the Artistic Director of Denmark Arts, welcomed attendees and provided an introduction to the event. Brad Kneebone from the Denmark Bird Group displayed a comprehensive map of the East Asian and Australian Flyway and narrated the moving story of migratory birds making the gruelling journey from Siberia to Australia and return.

A short film followed, titled Invisible Connections, with music and visuals by Anthony Albrecht and Simone Slattery.

A light hearted video was then shown about the famous Godwit E7 which flew from Alaska to NZ non-stop in 8 days. The final video was of a virtual choir consisting of singers from all of the countries and towns the birds cross over or visit on their journey to Australia. A preview of the Overwintering Project and Exhibition to be held in February 2022 was also provided. The GSSC banner was lucky enough to attend the meeting and you can see it just behind the speaker in the above image from the day. Many thanks to Inspiring Western Australia for enabling events such as this.”