Most people walk through Cairns Botanic Gardens and see plants. Expert local macro-photographer Bridgette Gower walks through and sees a thousand tiny creatures.
With over 2,000 hours in these gardens, she knows where White-lipped Tree Frogs shelter, where Net-casting Spiders set up at dusk, and which host plants the caterpillars favour. On this two-hour night walk, she shares all of it, from Striped Possums to Papuan Frogmouths.
The route changes with the season. Frogs are reliable year-round. Expect eyeshines before you see the creatures behind them, and the chance to photograph a Papuan Frogmouth sitting perfectly still.
Groups are capped at eight. Bridgette gives real attention to your questions, interests, and camera settings. Photography guidance is part of the experience.
Camera hire available from A$40 to A$80. Beginner to advanced options. Reserve after booking, pay on the day.
Wear comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and long sleeves.
Your guide leads you to the host plants and habitats most active for nocturnal wildlife. Stop at each sighting for as long as you need. Photography guidance is given on the spot. Common sightings include Frogs, Huntsman spiders, Net-casting Spiders, and Garden Orb-weavers, Stick Insects, Bugs and Beetles. Depending on the season, expect possible sightings of Striped Possums, Papuan Frogmouths, Speckled Flying Foxes, Geckos, snakes, and eels in the garden waterways. The walk returns to the main entrance following your tour. Your guide is available for questions before you leave.
Cairns Botanic Gardens main entrance, Collins Avenue (Free parking is available on Collins Avenue. The closest cross street is McCormack Street.). Look for the Telstra Public Phone Box at the entrance. Meet your guide 10 minutes before departure or 30 minutes if renting camera equipment.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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