International Bat (Gulan) Night: connecting community with the fascinating world of bats

Over 200 community members and bat enthusiasts gathered at the Port Macquarie campus for the inaugural International Bat (Gulan) Night, part of the globally celebrated International Bat Night held annually in August. Led by Dr Anke Frank, lecturer in ecology, and co-designed with the Birpai People, Sustainability at Charles Sturt, External Engagement, and the Faculty of Science teams, the event aimed to educate and connect participants of all ages.

Highlights included a bat detector tour, live bat trapping with experts, weaving for bat conservation with Birpai Elders, a bat poster competition, guest lectures about microbats, Birpai bat storytelling with Elder Arli Gili Mehan, community bat stalls, and a visit from Frankie the Giant Flying Fox mascot. This event exceeded expectations with connecting community to nature and provided invaluable education on the fascinating world of bats.