A guide that sees birding through a slightly different lens.
VOL. 08
Where The Birders Are: Part One
Read time - 8 minutes, and worth every second!
A directory of our diverse & inclusive birding communities, from everyday birding groups, professional guides, photograph and unique collectives.
Find your bird people here.
Birding Can Be Better Shared
For many of us, birding starts alone, and that’s part of what makes it so special. Those quiet moments with no distractions other than the birds. You’re focused, calm, disconnected from everything else while being completely connected to nature. It’s why birding feels so good for our hearts and minds.
Things are shifting though. Across Australia and around the world, a new wave of birders is emerging, bringing a more social, inclusive, and creative way to bird. Birding isn’t just a solo pursuit anymore, it’s becoming a shared experience, both out in the field and online.
The Changing Birding Scene
It’s funny, within the birding community, we are far more progressed with the rest of the worls perception of what type of person is into birds. For us, we know how diverse, inclusive, and forward-thinking this lifestyle choice is. The mix of ages, backgrounds, and perspectives is remarkable.
It’s when we mention our love for birds that we still sometimes get that look and the classic line, “Birds? Isn’t that for retirees?” It’s such an old-hat reaction. These days, it’s more our turn to be surprised. Where have they been?!
Across Australia, birding is massively different now. There are queer birders, design-minded outdoor types, urban birders who like their city buzz as much as they do their birds. There are social crews that combine birding with coffee, conservation and culture (yep, that's us right there!!!)
Groups like Hot Girls Birdwatch in Darwin, Adelaide Queer Birders, and MAPPA Outdoor in Victoria, each show just how far birding has come, and how naturally inclusive it is. And alongside them, guides like Matt Cornish in Queensland and the team at NT Bird Specialists keep helping new birders find their wings (sorry couldnt help ourselves!). Then there is the extraordinary and inspiring efforts of Callum from Urban Guerillas and Kurt Jones, from Co-Exist Australia.
Inside the community, it’s evolution. Outside of it, it's a revelation.
Finding Your People
This two-part directory is our way of opening the door, to help you find your kind of birders. Maybe you’re looking for a few buddies, a bit more experience, or a group that thinks like you. While putting this together, we realised the same thing ourselves: we’re ready to get out there too. Building LYFER has always been about community, and this guide reminded us just how strong, diverse, and welcoming it already is.
From the long-standing organisations that have kept birding alive for generations, to the new collectives bringing fresh energy, creativity, and inclusivity to the field, every group here plays a part in shaping the modern birding scene.
And if you’ve started your own bird group, or discovered one that deserves a mention, tell us. We want to keep building this directory with your help, because there are still plenty of birders out there waiting to be found.
You’ll meet crews who grab coffee before dawn walks, collectives that blend art with ecology, and new groups making space for queer and youth-led birding. And if you don’t see one near you? Start it. Two friends and a pair of binoculars is all it takes to begin something bigger.
Lastly, it's important to note that these are groups, organisations and tours that stood out to us from what we’ve found, the ones that feel aligned with what LYFER represents. We haven’t joined them all, so you’ll still need to do a bit of exploring yourself, but we hope this helps point you in the right direction.
PLEASE NOTE: Everything here has been researched and written by us, not the groups or guides themselves. It’s not advertising, just our take on who’s out there doing great things. We encourage you to read on, explore, and look a little deeper into the ones that catch your eye. GO BIRDING!!!! :)
TAS
UTAS Avian Club
ABOUT
From what we’ve found, the UTAS Avian Club keeps birding grounded, and accessible for students. It’s less about ticking species and more about getting outside, learning to ID birds properly, and enjoying Tasmania’s landscapes with others who get it.
WHAT THEY DO
They organise relaxed bird walks, weekend trips, and ID sessions across coastal and bushland areas. Some outings link with local researchers, blending hands-on learning with easygoing social birding.
GOOD FOR
Students or younger birders who are keen to learn by doing, and explore Tasmania’s birdlife in good company. It is generally for University Students only but if you fit the bill with some youth behind you, we think it's still worth reaching out.
WHERE
Based in Hobart, with regular sessions across southern Tasmania and the occasional regional trip.
CONNECT
Wildcare Tasmania
ABOUT
Wildcare Tasmania is a volunteer-powered network helping to protect and restore the state’s wild landscapes. It brings people together through conservation, community, and shared purpose, supporting the ecosystems that define Tasmania.
WHAT THEY DO
They run more than 55 volunteer groups working across forests, coasts, and islands on projects like habitat restoration, species monitoring, and reserve management.
GOOD FOR
erfect for anyone who wants to get involved in hands-on conservation, birders, walkers, or nature lovers who value contributing to the places they explore.
WHERE
Active across Tasmania, with projects spanning national parks, reserves, and local habitats.
CONNECT
Birds of King Island - BOKI
ABOUT
Birds of King Island (BOKI) is a local, volunteer-run group working to protect the island’s rare and threatened bird species. It’s a community-driven effort that combines conservation, education, and responsible tourism on one of Australia’s most unique island habitats.
WHAT THEY DO
BOKI runs monitoring programs for endangered species like the King Island Scrubtit and Brown Thornbill, manages habitat restoration projects, and promotes ethical birdwatching across the island.
GOOD FOR
BOKI runs monitoring programs for endangered species like the King Island Scrubtit and Brown Thornbill, manages habitat restoration projects, and promotes ethical birdwatching across the island.
WHERE
Based on King Island, Tasmania, a biodiversity hotspot between mainland Australia and Tasmania.
CONNECT
Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service – Volunteers
ABOUT
Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service coordinates one of the state’s most diverse volunteer programs, connecting people directly with the care and protection of Tasmania’s national parks and reserves. It’s a chance to be part of the work that keeps these landscapes alive and accessible.
WHAT THEY DO
Volunteers assist rangers, restore habitats, maintain walking tracks, and help care for cultural and heritage sites. Projects range from short-term clean-ups to longer conservation placements on remote islands.
GOOD FOR
Anyone keen to contribute to conservation while experiencing Tasmania’s most remarkable wild places firsthand.
WHERE
Across Tasmania, within the state’s national parks, reserves, and remote island sites.
CONNECT
Website:parks.tas.gov.au/be-involved/volunteer
Instagram: @tasparkswildlife
Inala Nature Tours: Bruny Island, Tasmania (Australia-wide)
ABOUT
Inala Nature Tours is one of Australia’s most respected birding and wildlife tour operators, founded by renowned ornithologist Dr Tonia Cochran. Based on Bruny Island, their team of expert guides combine deep field knowledge with a genuine commitment to conservation and research.
WHAT THEY DO
They run small-group and private tours across Australia, specialising in birding, photography, and wildlife encounters. From Tasmania’s endemics to outback specialties, their guides know the calls, habitats, and seasonal hotspots that bring every trip to life.
GOOD FOR
Birders, photographers, and travellers who value expert-led experiences and want a deeper understanding of Australia’s birds and ecosystems.
WHERE
Headquartered on Bruny Island, Tasmania, with tours operating nationwide and internationally.
CONNECT
Shutterbug Walkabouts
ABOUT
Shutterbug Walkabouts is a Hobart-based photo tour company founded by Coreena and Roy Vieth, two local photographers with a deep understanding of Tasmania’s landscapes and wildlife. Their experiences bring together creativity, connection, and the wild character of the island.
WHAT THEY DO
They offer private and small-group photo tours, workshops, and retreats that focus on nature, wildlife, and mindful photography. Sessions range from half-day shoots to multi-day adventures across Tasmania’s forests, coasts, and wilderness regions.
GOOD FOR
Photographers and birders who want to refine their skills while exploring Tasmania’s most scenic and bird-rich habitats in a relaxed, supportive setting.
WHERE
Based in Hobart, with tours operating throughout southern and regional Tasmania.
CONNECT
Connect:
Website: shutterbugwalkabouts.com.au
Instagram: @shutterbugwalkabouts
Email: hello@shutterbugwalkabouts.com.au
ACT
CANBERRA BIRDS
ABOUT
For over sixty years, Canberra Birds (fomrely caleld the Canberra Ornithologist Group), has been the heartbeat of birding in the nation’s capital. What began as a small group of enthusiasts is now a leading voice in bird study, conservation, and community engagement. The group has helped shape how Canberra protects and understands its native birds — from backyards to bush reserves.
WHAT THEY DO
Canberra Birds runs monthly meetings, local and regional field trips, and major surveys that inform real conservation action.
Members contribute to long-term monitoring projects, publish research in Canberra Bird Notes, and share updates through the Gang-gang newsletter.
Their data has influenced major environmental decisions, including the protection of key habitats like Mulligan’s Flat. COG also maintains a detailed database of local bird sightings and leads citizen science projects across the ACT.
GOOD FOR
Anyone from casual birdwatchers to serious field researchers who want to learn, contribute, and explore with a knowledgeable, conservation-focused community.
WHERE
Based in Canberra, with activities spanning the ACT and surrounding regions, including fieldwork in reserves, wetlands, and regional parks.
CONNECT
NEIL HERMES
ABOUT
Few guides in Australia have a story like Neil Hermes. A Canberra-based ornithologist, author, and expedition leader, Neil has spent over four decades working across Australia and the Pacific, from Kakadu and Uluru to Norfolk Island, where he helped save the Norfolk Island Green Parrot from extinction. With more than twenty books to his name and a lifetime of field experience, he brings unmatched knowledge and enthusiasm to every tour.
WHAT THEY DO
Neil runs private half- and full-day birding safaris across Canberra and surrounding regions, as well as extended expeditions through some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes, including Kangaroo Island, Arnhem Land, and Papua New Guinea.
His tours combine science, storytelling, and discovery, giving guests an in-depth understanding of bird behaviour, conservation, and the delicate balance between birds and people. Beyond guiding, Neil also provides ornithological consulting and corporate advice on bird management and conservation practices.
GOOD FOR
Neil pretty much looks of all level birders, from those eager to learn from the best and those full of knowledge and birding experiences. Neil’s events are best for those who crave expert insight, a bit of adventure, and genuine connection to the science and stories behind Australia’s birdlife.
WHERE
Based in Canberra, with tours available throughout the ACT, Northern Territory, Norfolk Island, Papua New Guinea, and other key birding regions.
CONNECT
Website: neilhermes.com.au
Instagram: @neilhermes
Email: hi@neilhermes.com.au
SA
Adelaide Queer Birders (AQB)
ABOUT
Adelaide Queer Birders is a community-led group creating an inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ birders and allies to enjoy the outdoors together. Their focus is on bulding a strong local birding communication who connect through birds and nature. Honouring complete inclusivity of all birders no matter what age, religion, orientation or birding skills. They foster queer community, connection through birdwatching, in a relaxed no pressure approach.
WHAT THEY DO
AQB hosts regular bird walks through Adelaide’s parks, wetlands, and reserves and sometimes weaved into social picnics too. Their events are intentionally relaxed, designed to make birding accessible and social.
They promote and encourage peer-to-peer knowledge sharing so youre guaranteed to learn something new while out and about too.
Beyond spotting birds, the group also collaborates with other nature and LGBTQIA+ collectives, helping bridge birding with broader wellbeing and culture.
GOOD FOR
Anyone looking for a safe, friendly way to explore Adelaide’s birdlife while meeting people who share an appreciation for nature, inclusivity, and community.
WHERE
Based in Adelaide, with meetups across the city’s green corridors, from adelaide-baed coastal reserves to urban wetlands and hill trails.
CONNECT
Instagram: @adlqueerbirders
Facebook: Adelaide Queer Birders
Email: adelaidequeerbirders@gmaill.com
Check out their linktree bio link on Instagram for the low down on all things events.
Adelaide Bird Club
ABOUT
The Adelaide Bird Club is a locally run group led by Amanda Valance, a well-known and passionate South Australian birder and guide. Amanda knows a heck a lot of things about birds so you are in good company!
WHAT THEY DO
Amanda hosts periodic bird walks, workshops, and ID sessions around Adelaide and regional South Australia. Each outing blends local insight with field education, helping members develop confidence in spotting and identifying native species.
The group also organises seasonal events that focus on migration, habitat awareness, and some photograpy courses too.
GOOD FOR
Based in Adelaide, with meetups across the city’s green corridors, from adelaide-baed coastal reserves to urban wetlands and hill trails. These group gatherings encourage all ages, so it's an ideal one for young families.
WHERE
Based in Adelaide, with events across the city’s reserves, wetlands, and nearby regional parks.
CONNECT
Instagram: @adelaide_bird_club
Facebook: Adelaide Bird Club
BIRDS SA
ABOUT
Birds SA is one of Australia’s oldest birding organisations, established in 1899, and continues to be a cornerstone of South Australia’s birding community. Its strength lies in deep experience, long-standing research, and an active network of birders who know the state’s habitats inside out.
WHAT THEY DO
They run frequent meetings, field trips, and bird surveys, and publish The South Australian Ornithologist, a respected journal documenting local bird research and records.
Their website acts as a hub for upcoming outings, conservation news, and biodiversity updates. The mix of science, community, and field activity makes Birds SA a rare blend of heritage and relevance in 'modern birding'.
There is so much to explore here.
GOOD FOR
Dedicated birders, researchers, and anyone who values knowledge-sharing and structured field experience within a respected community.
We are quite certain you will need a membership to participate in some events, but the annual fees are very fair and no doubt the money goes to worthy efforts and causes.
WHERE
Headquartered in Adelaide, with activities held all across South Australia’s national parks, wetlands, and reserves.
CONNECT
ADVENTURE ART PHOTOGRAPHY
ABOUT
Adventure Art Photography is run by John Adams, a South Australian wildlife photographer known for combining creative technique with deep field knowledge. His bird photography tours offer an expert-led, immersive way to refine both the art and the ethics of shooting in the wild.
There is so much they offer over at their website and worth a good rummage.
WHAT THEY DO
John has gang of expert photographers and guides run immersive photography tours designed to inspire and educate in equal measure.
Their trips are open to all skill levels, blending expert guidance, hands-on learning, and a strong sense of community. Each tour focuses on technique, timing, and creative expression while exploring Australia’s most striking natural locations.
Guests receive personalised feedback in the field and finish with a celebration of their best shots, turning a day behind the lens into an unforgettable shared experience. Gear up for an epic adventure and life experience.
They make really clear that they truly care about the photographic experience they create, that is community instead of competition and an all-inclusive adventure.
Beyond birding trips also offer landscape photography and astrophotography too.
GOOD FOR
Photographers who want one-on-one guidance in mastering bird and wildlife photography, while experience extraordinary nature locations.
These experiences seem ideal for photographers who want to build their technical, refine their technique or wishing to build a professional portfolio.
WHERE
Based in South Australia, with tours operating around Adelaide and regional birding hotspots.
CONNECT
Website: adventureartphotography.com.au
Instagram: @adventureartphotography
BELLBIRD BIRDING TOURS
ABOUT
Bellbird Tours is one of Australia’s most experienced birding operators, founded in 2007 and based in the Riverland town of Berri. Known for its small-group expeditions and deep local insight, the company has built a reputation for guiding birders through some of the country’s most unique and remote habitats.
Yes Bellbird is huge, if you take a look at their website you'll see just what they cover, but from the reviews, a big operation doesnt mean you dont get an impeccable experience.
WHAT THEY DO
They run expertly guided tours across Australia (and abroad), from the mallee scrub and arid outback to lush coastal wetlands.
Each itinerary is designed for meaningful field time, focusing on rare and hard-to-find species while keeping comfort and accessibility in mind. Their guides, all seasoned birders, combine scientific knowledge with real-world experience, ensuring every tour delivers more than just sightings.
Custom tours are also available for photographers and those chasing specific species.
They offer Grasswren tours, Australian Endemics through to regionally focussed tours. Their international trips take in Bali, Costa Rica, Tanzania to Thailand.
GOOD FOR
Birders and photographers who want expert-led, immersive tours that balance discovery, learning, and comfort, especially those chasing rarities and regional endemics.
WHERE
Based in South Australia, with tours operating around Adelaide, South Australia and beyond!
CONNECT
VIC
LIFE GONE WILD
ABOUT
Life Gone Wild is the evolution of Angus Hamilton’s long-standing work in wildlife storytelling. What began as a travel blog and filmmaking project, including the award-winning Flight of the Helmeted Honeyeater, has grown into guided wildlife experiences across Victoria.
With field experience spanning Madagascar, Komodo Island and northern Vietnam, Angus now focuses on helping people encounter native Australian species in their natural habitats. At the moment its all about the local Victorian birding experiences.
WHAT THEY DO
Life Gone Wild runs small-group wildlife experiences across Victoria, guiding you through habitats where native fauna can be observed in detail from knowledgable guides.
Their offerings include beginner-friendly birdwatching walks, pelagic seabird tours, nocturnal “After Dark” outings, and multi-day Wild Weekends designed for deeper immersion.
Tours operate in locations such as Braeside Park Wetlands, Westerfolds Park, Plenty Gorge Parklands, the You Yangs and Sherbrooke Forest, with a clear emphasis on field-based learning and habitat awareness.
GOOD FOR
Life Gone Wild suits would be ideal for those taking their first steps into birdwatching, as well as wildlife enthusiasts who prefer a bit of structured and proper guided experiences, but with a relaxed vibe.
It works well for solo participants, small groups, and anyone interested in seabirds, nocturnal species or developing a stronger understanding of Victoria’s native fauna through direct observation.
The tours are really affordable too so suit anyone on a bit of budget. Dont worry you arent compromising experience here!
WHERE
Life Gone Wild is based in Melbourne, Australia, with tours operating across metropolitan parks and regional locations throughout Victoria.
CONNECT
MELBOURNE BIRD SOCIAL CLUB
ABOUT
The Melbourne Bird Social Club is by us, the LYFER crew. It is our way of bringing birding into the rhythm of city life.
It’s for people who enjoy birds, good conversation, and being out in Melbourne, whether that’s a morning walk, an afternoon gallery stop, or a glass of wine and a good bite to eat after an excellent urban birding adventure.
WHAT THEY DO
We organise small, social gatherings that mix birding with culture and city wandering.
Think bird walks that end at a café, gallery visits with a green detour, shared dinners, and half-day outings that balance nature with urban life.
It’s relaxed, welcoming, and very much about enjoying the moment.
It's all coordinated via the Facebook group page, but the social aspect is saved for the curated events arranged every month or so.
GOOD FOR
MBSC is great for people who like birds but don’t take themselves too seriously, but definitely happy to be social and meet new people.
If you enjoy exploring the city, meeting like-minded people, and believe there’s absolutely nothing wrong with liking birds and a good glass of wine, you’ll fit right in.
Locals and visitors are both welcome.
WHERE
Pretty much in Melbourne city areas, with events across the inner city parks but a few inner city Mebourne suburb trips thrown in.
CONNECT
VIC
MAPPA Outdoor
ABOUT
Mappa Outdoor is a Melbourne-based collective reimagining how people connect with the outdoors, while also giving it a sleek contemporary brand feel.
What began as a side project between two nature-minded creatives Ava & Graham, has evolved into, what we see as a movement, one built on great curiosity, inclusion, and deep connection to nature, even in our urban spaces.
Each experience is executed with a modern fresh feel to see the city’s natural heartbeat.
With Ava and Michael leading the way, Mappa blends thoughtful design, storytelling, and respect for Country to make nature feel accessible, modern, and deeply personal.
WHAT THEY DO
Mappa hosts guided walks, birding sessions, paddle tours along the Birrarung (Yarra River), and mindful outdoor experiences that merge design, storytelling, and ecology.
Their events focus on slowing down, observing closely, and rethinking how people engage with natural spaces. Whether it’s a hike, a paddle, or a creative workshop, each experience invites participants to see the wild side of Melbourne differently, through reflection, inclusion, and care for Country.
GOOD FOR
Urban dwellers, creatives, and modern birders who want to reconnect with nature in thoughtful, design-led ways.
WHERE
Based in Melbourne, with experiences mainly across the city and surrounding natural areas, from rivers and reserves to suburban green spaces.
CONNECT
Birdlife Melbourne
ABOUT
BirdLife needs no introduction and byond all the hard work they do for bird awar ess they support may bird groups around Australia.
Melbourne Birdlife is one of the most active branches of BirdLife Australia, uniting birders, photographers, and conservationists across Greater Melbourne. With decades of experience, the group connects people through research, learning, and time in the field.
WHAT THEY DO
They run frequent bird walks, field trips, and citizen-science surveys across Melbourne and beyond, including long-term monitoring at Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve and the Dandenong Valley wetlands.
Monthly meetings feature guest speakers, while education programs and beginner-friendly outings make birding accessible to all.
GOOD FOR
Birders wanting structured field experience, community connection, and opportunities to contribute to conservation. Education is big here.
WHERE
Based in Melbourne, with activities across Greater Melbourne and regional Victoria.
CONNECT
Website: BirdLife Melbourne
Facebook: BirdLife Melbourne
TIM DOLBY BIRDING
ABOUT
Tim Dolby is one of Australia’s most respected birders, guides, and authors. A former Convener of BirdLife Australia (Victoria), he’s written Finding Australian Birds: A Field Guide (CSIRO) and Where to See Birds in Victoria (Allen & Unwin). With decades of field experience and a background in ecology, conservation, and sound recording, Tim’s tours balance precision, knowledge, and pure enjoyment of birding.
WHAT THEY DO
Tim runs private and small-group birding tours across Victoria and beyond, from Melbourne’s wetlands and forested ranges to the mallee and inland plains.
Each trip is built around the season and your interests, whether you’re targeting rare species or exploring local birding hotspots.
Tours include pick-up, park access, and a packed lunch, and are tailored to all skill levels. Longer multi-day trips extend into regional and interstate habitats, combining expert guidance with comfortable, well-paced travel. His approach blends storytelling and science, offering insight into not just what you see, but why it’s there.
GOOD FOR
Birders and photographers who value expert-led, flexible field experiences with personal insight and access to Victoria’s best birding locations.
WHERE
Based in Melbourne, with regular tours across Victoria, including the Yarra Valley, Otways, Western Treatment Plant, and Mallee, plus extended tours throughout Australia.
WHERE
Website: timothydolby.com
Email: dolby.timothy@gmail.com
Phone: 0448 801 674
Blog: Tim Dolby’s Bird Trip Report via timothydolby.com
URBAN GUERILLAS
ABOUT
Urban Guerrillas is a youth-focused environmental collective rewilding Melbourne’s (Naarm) urban spaces. Founded by Sam Russell and supported by Callum and Ashton, the group has become a grassroots force for restoring indigenous biodiversity and strengthening the link between youth, birds, and the city’s natural systems.
WHAT THEY DO
Their work mixes community action with creativity, running guided bird walks, native planting days, wildlife photography workshops, and on-the-ground restoration projects around sites like Gardiners Creek. Every event combines learning with hands-on impact, giving participants a tangible way to care for the places birds call home.
They also host educational workshops that explore Indigenous ecology, youth leadership, and biodiversity in city environments. Hey they've also hosted a gig or two too!
GOOD FOR
Modern birders, students, and locals who want to go beyond observation, contributing to real environmental change while reconnecting with nature in the city. This is a group the team at LYFER have on top of their list to get involved in soon.
WHERE
Based in Melbourne, with activities focused on inner-city parks, waterways, and urban green corridors.
CONNECT
Instagram: @urban.guerrillas
Facebook: FB Group
WEEKEND BIRDER
ABOUT
Created by the excllent Kirsty Costa, Weekend Birder needs no introduction. Kirsty devotes her time to creating some of the best podcasts about birding, blending a human touch to the world of birds and birding.
Kirsty also is about bringing people together through birding, organising, along with her birding friends, some educational and social meet-ups.
With a background in science education and conservation, Kirsty has built a relaxed, welcoming space where birding feels open to everyone, no matter their experience or location.
Created by the excllent Kirsty Costa, Weekend Birder needs no introduction. Kirsty devotes her time to creating some of the best podcasts about birding, blending a human touch to the world of birds and birding.
Kirsty also is about bringing people together through birding, organising, along with her birding friends, some educational and social meet-ups.
With a background in science education and conservation, Kirsty has built a relaxed, welcoming space where birding feels open to everyone, no matter their experience or location.
WHAT THEY DO
Kirsty runs Weekend Birder Meet-ups, small, friendly gatherings held across Australia that mix local bird walks, seasonal outings, and nature-connection workshops.
Each meet-up is about more than just sightings; it’s a chance to share knowledge, explore with others, and strengthen the network of modern birders across the country.
Events often link with like-minded organisations and projects (including LYFER), making each one feel part of a bigger movement.
GOOD FOR
Birders who enjoy meeting others, exploring new places, and connecting through shared experiences as well as learning of course!
CONNECT
Website: weekendbirder.com.au
Instagram: @weekendbirder
PHILIP MAHER
ABOUT
Led by Philip Maher, his wife Patrica and some of their family too, Philip one of Australia’s most respected bird guides, the Plains-wanderer Tour is a bucket-list experience for serious birders.
Born and based in Deniliquin, Philip’s lifelong study of the critically endangered Plains-wanderer has made him synonymous with the species, and one of the foremost authorities on Australia’s inland birds.
WHAT THEY DO
Through Australian Ornithological Services, Philip and his partner Patricia Maher run small, highly focused birding expeditions across inland New South Wales. The flagship tour takes guests by 4WD across starlit grasslands in search of the elusive
Plains-wanderer, alongside other rare mallee and inland species. Tours range from one to nine days and can be tailored to species targets or extended into Australia’s arid interior. Every detail — from logistics to ecological context — reflects decades of field expertise and an unmatched respect for the land.
GOOD FOR
Seasoned birders and international visitors chasing rare and hard-to-find species, particularly those drawn to remote, open-country birding guided by one of the best in the field.
In saying that, the experience of night birding is magical and suitable for anyone who wants to experience a once in a life time event.
WHERE
This particularly tour sets off from Deniliquin, southwest New South Wales, although Philip also arranges tours extending through the Riverina, mallee regions, and inland grasslands.
CONNECT
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