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The 20th IBRC will offer a range of field trips that will allow delegates to experience the amazing flora, fauna and culture of Northern Australia and the Pacific region.
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Short field trips
Several short field trips will visit sites in the Cairns and Kuranda region and these can be booked through the conference registration page. Select each title below for more information.
cATTANA wETLANDS bAT waLK
Dates: Tuesday 5 August and Wednesday 6 August
Time: 5pm-9pm
Capacity: 80 people on each day
Price: AUD$55
The Cattana Wetlands are a beautiful 80-hectare nature conservation park located about 20 km north of Cairns, Queensland. Originally a sugarcane farm and sand mining quarry, it has been transformed into a thriving wetland habitat. The park features a 420-meter boardwalk through a feather palm forest, freshwater and saltwater lakes, and supports an abundance of plant and birdlife.
The wetlands are a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with species like the Green Pygmy-Goose, White-browed Crake, Comb-crested Jacana, Black-necked Stork (aka Jabiru), Black Bittern and Crimson Finch recorded at the site. The site is also a great spot for detecting a range of echolocating bat species and occasionally Spectacled and Little Red Flying-foxes are observed.
On Tuesday and Wednesday evenings following the conference sessions, up to 80 delegates on each night will be transported on buses to Cattana Wetlands from Cairns Convention Centre (~20 mins) and returned to the Convention Centre at the end of the night. During the evening, delegates will get a chance to look for Spectacled and Little Red Flying-foxes. Sponsors will also be running a bat detecting walk through the wetlands to observe echolocating bats. This will be a fantastic opportunity for delegates to use some of the products that our sponsors will be displaying during the conference. Of course, delegates are welcome to bring their own detectors or other devices to the walk. More details about the walk will be provided closer to the conference, but do remember to pack your head torch and walking boots. Delegates will be guided by Cattana volunteers along paths at the wetland. It is important that delegates follow the directions of Cattana volunteers and stick to paths as crocodiles do occur at the site. Delegates will be provided with a light dinner (sandwiches, fruit platters, water, juices and soft drinks (soda)).
The cost of attending includes return transport and dinner. As places are limited, please apply for just one of the nights.
Time: 5pm-9pm
Capacity: 80 people on each day
Price: AUD$55
The Cattana Wetlands are a beautiful 80-hectare nature conservation park located about 20 km north of Cairns, Queensland. Originally a sugarcane farm and sand mining quarry, it has been transformed into a thriving wetland habitat. The park features a 420-meter boardwalk through a feather palm forest, freshwater and saltwater lakes, and supports an abundance of plant and birdlife.
The wetlands are a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with species like the Green Pygmy-Goose, White-browed Crake, Comb-crested Jacana, Black-necked Stork (aka Jabiru), Black Bittern and Crimson Finch recorded at the site. The site is also a great spot for detecting a range of echolocating bat species and occasionally Spectacled and Little Red Flying-foxes are observed.
On Tuesday and Wednesday evenings following the conference sessions, up to 80 delegates on each night will be transported on buses to Cattana Wetlands from Cairns Convention Centre (~20 mins) and returned to the Convention Centre at the end of the night. During the evening, delegates will get a chance to look for Spectacled and Little Red Flying-foxes. Sponsors will also be running a bat detecting walk through the wetlands to observe echolocating bats. This will be a fantastic opportunity for delegates to use some of the products that our sponsors will be displaying during the conference. Of course, delegates are welcome to bring their own detectors or other devices to the walk. More details about the walk will be provided closer to the conference, but do remember to pack your head torch and walking boots. Delegates will be guided by Cattana volunteers along paths at the wetland. It is important that delegates follow the directions of Cattana volunteers and stick to paths as crocodiles do occur at the site. Delegates will be provided with a light dinner (sandwiches, fruit platters, water, juices and soft drinks (soda)).
The cost of attending includes return transport and dinner. As places are limited, please apply for just one of the nights.
Tolga Bat Hospital (SOLD OUT)
Dates: Sunday 3 August and Wednesday 6 August
Time: Sunday: 8.30am-2pm (departing Tolga back to Cairns at 12:30pm) and Wednesday
Capacity: 50 people on Sunday; 40 people on Wednesday
Price: AUD$65
The trips to Tolga Bat Hospital are now sold out.
Join us for a unique opportunity to visit the Tolga Bat Hospital, where you’ll get an up-close look at bat conservation in action. This day trip includes a stop at a Spectacled Flying-fox camp, where we’ll observe these fascinating bats in their natural habitat and a visit to the hospital to learn about Tolga’s work - rescue, rehabilitation, research, wildlife-friendly fencing and ecotourism. Delegates will be transported by bus from Cairns to Tolga Bat Hospital and back.
The trip will be offered on two different days during the conference, Sunday 3 August before the Welcome Mixer and Wednesday 6 August on the workshop day. The Sunday trip is a great chance to visit if you are attending the National Flying-fox Forum on Wednesday! Participants should bring their own snacks/lunch, as we’ll return after lunchtime. Don’t miss this chance to experience one of Australia’s leading bat care and conservation facilities.
Time: Sunday: 8.30am-2pm (departing Tolga back to Cairns at 12:30pm) and Wednesday
Capacity: 50 people on Sunday; 40 people on Wednesday
Price: AUD$65
The trips to Tolga Bat Hospital are now sold out.
Join us for a unique opportunity to visit the Tolga Bat Hospital, where you’ll get an up-close look at bat conservation in action. This day trip includes a stop at a Spectacled Flying-fox camp, where we’ll observe these fascinating bats in their natural habitat and a visit to the hospital to learn about Tolga’s work - rescue, rehabilitation, research, wildlife-friendly fencing and ecotourism. Delegates will be transported by bus from Cairns to Tolga Bat Hospital and back.
The trip will be offered on two different days during the conference, Sunday 3 August before the Welcome Mixer and Wednesday 6 August on the workshop day. The Sunday trip is a great chance to visit if you are attending the National Flying-fox Forum on Wednesday! Participants should bring their own snacks/lunch, as we’ll return after lunchtime. Don’t miss this chance to experience one of Australia’s leading bat care and conservation facilities.
kURANDA DAY TRIP AND BAT WALK
Date: Saturday 9th August 2025
Times: 8am – 7:30pm
Meals: BBQ Buffet Lunch, plus packed Morning and Afternoon Tea
Luxury coach charter transfers included
Cost: AUD$300 p/p
Capacity: 160 people
Experience one of Cairns’ most iconic day trips, with a batty focus!
On this exclusive tour, start the day with a trip to Kuranda on the famous Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding just metres above the pristine jungle canopy with breathtaking panoramic views of Barron Gorge and Australia’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
Once in Kuranda, take a tour of Rainforestation Nature Park where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of Far North Queensland. Highlights include:
There will also be a small amount of free time (30 minutes) to explore Kuranda Village between activities.
Finish your day with:
Times: 8am – 7:30pm
Meals: BBQ Buffet Lunch, plus packed Morning and Afternoon Tea
Luxury coach charter transfers included
Cost: AUD$300 p/p
Capacity: 160 people
Experience one of Cairns’ most iconic day trips, with a batty focus!
On this exclusive tour, start the day with a trip to Kuranda on the famous Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, gliding just metres above the pristine jungle canopy with breathtaking panoramic views of Barron Gorge and Australia’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
Once in Kuranda, take a tour of Rainforestation Nature Park where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of Far North Queensland. Highlights include:
- Army Duck Rainforest Tour – Travel on both land and water through the lush rainforest.
- Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience & Dreamtime Walk – Learn about local Indigenous traditions through dance, storytelling, and boomerang throwing.
- Koala & Wildlife Park – Encounter some of Australia and North Queensland's most iconic wildlife including Southern Cassowaries, Saltwater Crocodiles, and other unique Australian wildlife.
- Enjoy an Aussie BBQ Buffet Lunch
There will also be a small amount of free time (30 minutes) to explore Kuranda Village between activities.
Finish your day with:
- A scenic Kuranda Scenic Railway back down the mountain through the rainforest back to Cairns
- Just before dusk, visit the Cairns Botanic Gardens to embark on a bat walk and spotlight to look for some of Far North Queensland’s more elusive nocturnal creatures.
- Starts & ends in Cairns (Specific pick-up locations TBA).
- Dinner & accommodation are not included.
- Suitable for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and bat aficionados!
Long field trips, further afield
All post-conference field trips are now at capacity pending final participant confirmations.
You can complete the EOI to be added to the waitlist only.
Join one of our post-conference field trips to explore unique bat habitats, support local conservation efforts, and connect with communities across Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu. Each trip offers a distinct ecological and cultural experience, with activities ranging from mist-netting and acoustic surveys to rainforest exploration and community engagement.
Participants are required to have travel insurance and need to complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form to apply. Submitting this form indicates a serious intent to participate if accepted. Each trip has different inclusions and may involve certain conditions or requirements (e.g. fitness level, shared accommodation, or community engagement). Spaces are limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-approved basis.
Trip prices are based on current best estimates and will be confirmed when EOIs close mid-May, or earlier if field trip capacity is reached. Trips are currently open to conference attendees only; however, you may note in the final comment section if you wish for a non-registered partner or family member to be considered in the event of extra space.
Note: Trip participants must be rabies vaccinated to take advantage of any bat handling opportunities where permitted.
Participants are required to have travel insurance and need to complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form to apply. Submitting this form indicates a serious intent to participate if accepted. Each trip has different inclusions and may involve certain conditions or requirements (e.g. fitness level, shared accommodation, or community engagement). Spaces are limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-approved basis.
Trip prices are based on current best estimates and will be confirmed when EOIs close mid-May, or earlier if field trip capacity is reached. Trips are currently open to conference attendees only; however, you may note in the final comment section if you wish for a non-registered partner or family member to be considered in the event of extra space.
Note: Trip participants must be rabies vaccinated to take advantage of any bat handling opportunities where permitted.
Bougainville, Papua New Guinea
Bat Research & Community Engagement Field Trip
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Dates: 11th–18th August 2025
Capacity: 10-20 people Estimated Cost per Person: AU$2,295 The Bougainville field trip has now reached capacity and is waitlist only. Includes international flights (Cairns to Buka return group flights), all domestic transportation, accommodation, meals, and field logistics. Visa fees are not included — please check your passport’s specific visa requirements for Papua New Guinea (PNG). This cost estimate is based on 10 participants and is as close to final as possible. The final cost may vary slightly but should not exceed this amount, and is more likely to decrease modestly if more participants join. Final pricing will be confirmed after EOIs close in mid-May/once trip capacity is reached, and before any payments are collected. Note: Flights will be booked as a group by the trip leaders — please do not attempt to book your own flights independently. Note: Participants are required to have travel insurance. Description This immersive eight-day field trip takes you to the remote west coast of Bougainville, PNG, where you’ll assist in documenting the region’s unique bat species while working directly with local communities. Over 5-6 days of fieldwork in lowland forests and coastal roosts, participants will engage in mist-netting, acoustic monitoring, and observational surveys. Participants will also have opportunities to explore the surrounding area and look for birds and other unique wildlife. This trip offers an authentic cultural experience through your stay in Kunua village, with opportunities for meaningful community interaction — including a potential school visit or informal conservation talks. Accommodation will be shared between our local host’s home and nearby village houses, with meals prepared by the community. Facilities are basic (pit toilets, river bathing, limited electricity), and participants must be comfortable in remote conditions with limited amenities. While prior bat research experience is helpful, enthusiasm and willingness to learn are key. This trip is open to participants with a moderate fitness level and an interest in meaningful, cross-cultural fieldwork. Group flights from Cairns to Buka will be booked in advance and are included in the field trip price. A full packing list, itinerary, logistics guide, and travel briefing will be provided upon confirmation. |
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Itinerary
We are currently coordinating group flights with a travel agent and may be able to fly from Cairns to Buka on the same day. If this is possible, the group will follow Option B, avoiding an overnight stay in Port Moresby. If the timing doesn’t allow, Option A will apply, with an overnight stay in Port Moresby before continuing to Buka the next morning.
Both itineraries are provided below to reflect these two potential travel scenarios. The trip cost currently includes the Port Moresby hotel night (Option A), but this will be removed if direct travel to Buka on the 11th (Option B) is confirmed. The final itinerary and cost will be amended once flights are secured.
Option A (Default – Including Overnight in Port Moresby)
Option B (If Direct Cairns–Buka Flights Proceed)
We are currently coordinating group flights with a travel agent and may be able to fly from Cairns to Buka on the same day. If this is possible, the group will follow Option B, avoiding an overnight stay in Port Moresby. If the timing doesn’t allow, Option A will apply, with an overnight stay in Port Moresby before continuing to Buka the next morning.
Both itineraries are provided below to reflect these two potential travel scenarios. The trip cost currently includes the Port Moresby hotel night (Option A), but this will be removed if direct travel to Buka on the 11th (Option B) is confirmed. The final itinerary and cost will be amended once flights are secured.
Option A (Default – Including Overnight in Port Moresby)
- Day 1: Arrive in Port Moresby. Stay overnight at the Hilton Hotel (tentative — pending flight availability for same-day travel to Buka).
- Day 2: Morning flight to Buka (~1.5 hrs), then travel by 4WD (~3 hrs) to Kunua village. Community welcome and field briefing. Potential for bat work in the evening.
- Days 3–6: Field research and engagement activities, including mist-netting, acoustic surveys, boat-based flying-fox observation, school talks, and/or cultural exchange.
- Day 7: Final day of fieldwork and cultural activities. Pack and prepare for early departure.
- Day 8: Early morning return to Buka (~3 hrs by road), then fly from Buka back to Cairns (via connection in Port Moresby).
Option B (If Direct Cairns–Buka Flights Proceed)
- Day 1: Arrive in Buka via international flight from Cairns. Travel by 4WD (~3 hrs) to Kunua village. Community welcome and field briefing.
- Days 2–6: Field research and community activities (as above).
- Day 7: Final day of fieldwork and cultural activities. Pack and prepare for early departure.
- Day 8: Early morning return to Buka (~3 hrs by road), then fly from Buka back to Cairns (via Port Moresby).
Nguna Island, Vanuatu
Bat Research & Community Engagement Field Trip
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Dates: 11th–16th August 2025
Max Capacity: 10 participants Estimated Cost: AU$765 per person (payable to IBRC — this does not include flights, hotel accommodation in Port Vila (first night or any additional nights after the field trip you choose to stay) or visa costs. The total estimated cost of the trip, including these additional expenses, is approximately AU$1,600–$2,200.) The Vanuatu field trip has now reached capacity and is waitlist only. Includes ground and boat transportation from Port Vila to Nguna Island, accommodation in Mere-Sauwia village, meals, and ranger/research fees. Flights, Port Vila hotel accommodation (recommended Melanesian Hotel), and visa costs (if applicable) must be arranged and paid for separately by the participant. To check if you require a visa prior to arrival, refer to the official list of visa-exempt countries. Participants must arrive in Port Vila no later than 11th August to ensure timely transit to Nguna Island on the morning of the 12th. If you wish to arrive earlier, you may do so at your own cost and leisure. Note: Participants are required to have travel insurance. |
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Description
During this field trip, researchers will explore a conservation area on Nguna Island, a volcanic island located just off the north coast of Efate, Vanuatu. The conservation area is managed using traditional practices, and participants will gain insights into the local culture, kastom (customary law), and how these practices contribute to sustainable resource management on the island.
Accompanied by community rangers, researchers will conduct surveys of both insectivorous and fruit bat species, including visits to known roosting sites. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to hike to Mt. Marou, an extinct volcano and one of Vanuatu’s notable tourist attractions.
Meals will be provided locally. This field trip is suited for participants with a moderate fitness level and at least a moderate level of bat handling/research experience, as well as a keen interest in cross-cultural conservation approaches and local capacity building.
A final farewell event will be hosted by the community, offering time for reflection and the opportunity to share outcomes and stories from the field.
A full packing list, itinerary, and travel briefing will be provided upon confirmation.
During this field trip, researchers will explore a conservation area on Nguna Island, a volcanic island located just off the north coast of Efate, Vanuatu. The conservation area is managed using traditional practices, and participants will gain insights into the local culture, kastom (customary law), and how these practices contribute to sustainable resource management on the island.
Accompanied by community rangers, researchers will conduct surveys of both insectivorous and fruit bat species, including visits to known roosting sites. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to hike to Mt. Marou, an extinct volcano and one of Vanuatu’s notable tourist attractions.
Meals will be provided locally. This field trip is suited for participants with a moderate fitness level and at least a moderate level of bat handling/research experience, as well as a keen interest in cross-cultural conservation approaches and local capacity building.
A final farewell event will be hosted by the community, offering time for reflection and the opportunity to share outcomes and stories from the field.
A full packing list, itinerary, and travel briefing will be provided upon confirmation.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Port Vila. Overnight stay in town (hotel accommodation not included in trip cost).
Day 2: Travel by bus ~1 hour, then a 30 minute boat trip to Nguna Island. Community welcome at Mere-Sauwia Village and introduction to the local conservation area. Orientation and brief history of community-based conservation efforts.
Day 3: Day and night surveys at known bat roosting sites with support from community rangers.
Day 4: Visit caves within the conservation area. Diurnal and nocturnal bat surveys continue.
Day 5: Hike to Mt. Marou, an extinct volcano and culturally significant site. Final community engagement and farewell event in the evening.
Day 6: Return travel to Port Vila by boat and road in the morning. Trip concludes and participants may stay overnight in Port Vila or fly home.
Day 1: Arrive in Port Vila. Overnight stay in town (hotel accommodation not included in trip cost).
Day 2: Travel by bus ~1 hour, then a 30 minute boat trip to Nguna Island. Community welcome at Mere-Sauwia Village and introduction to the local conservation area. Orientation and brief history of community-based conservation efforts.
Day 3: Day and night surveys at known bat roosting sites with support from community rangers.
Day 4: Visit caves within the conservation area. Diurnal and nocturnal bat surveys continue.
Day 5: Hike to Mt. Marou, an extinct volcano and culturally significant site. Final community engagement and farewell event in the evening.
Day 6: Return travel to Port Vila by boat and road in the morning. Trip concludes and participants may stay overnight in Port Vila or fly home.
DAintree & Beyond
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Dates: 10th–14th August 2025
Max Capacity: 21 People Estimated Cost per Person: AU$1,325 fully accommodated or AU$985 camping. Includes domestic transportation, accommodation, meals, and tour fees. The Daintree and Beyond field trip has now reached capacity and is waitlist only. Accommodation Note: Accommodation is very limited in this area and the fully accommodated option will require room sharing (optional bed sharing for partners, though additional people may also still share your room). Camping participants need to bring their own tent and bedding — or arrange rental in Cairns at their own cost. This cost estimate is based on 21 participants and is as close to final as possible. The final cost may fluctuate slightly (by approximately AU$100 per person), and will be confirmed before any payments are collected. Note: Participants are required to have travel insurance. Note: Only those listed on the permits will be allowed to handle bats during this field trip; however, all participants will still have opportunities for close-up observation of any bats captured. |
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Description
On this field trip you will have the opportunity to explore the Daintree, the world's oldest rainforest, as well as Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC) Brooklyn Wildlife Sanctuary, which supports a greater diversity of wildlife than any other single property in Australia. The trip begins with a scenic drive from Cairns to AWC’s Brooklyn Sanctuary, where participants will assist the AWC team with a two night bat survey (including acoustic recording and trapping). The trip then continues to the World Heritage-listed Daintree rainforest. Activities include a guided Forest Connections walk, a visit to a flying-fox colony (if occupied), and exploring the 47-metre canopy crane at the James Cook University Daintree Research Observatory. You’ll also visit the Daintree Discovery Centre (a known Cassowary hotspot), have opportunities to explore the Daintree in small groups (short tours or ziplining can be booked at additional cost), and glide along the river on the Daintree’s only zero-emissions boat, Solar Whisper, to observe crocodiles and other wildlife in the evening. Return to Cairns via the breathtaking coastal route through Port Douglas, with a stop for lunch at the iconic Ellis Beach Bar overlooking the ocean. A full packing list, itinerary, and travel briefing will be provided upon confirmation. |
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Itinerary
- Day 1: Depart Cairns and travel to Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC) Brooklyn Sanctuary (~2 hours), with sightseeing stops along the way. Bat survey (including trapping) at Brooklyn overnight.
- Day 2: Learn about AWC and Brooklyn Sanctuary. Second night of bat surveys.
- Day 3: Travel from Brooklyn to the Daintree. Visit Daintree Research Observatory and canopy crane. Participate in a Rainforest Connections walk and visit a flying-fox colony. Bat surveys in the evening.
- Day 4: Visit Daintree Discovery Centre and explore the Daintree. Daintree River wildlife cruise in the late afternoon.
- Day 5: Travel from the Daintree back to Cairns, stopping for lunch along the way (return by mid-afternoon).
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