The Field Naturalists’ Association of Canberra (FNAC) was formed in 1981. Our members come from a broad range of backgrounds but share an interest in natural history and a desire to learn more about our local species.
We meet at the Australian National University on the first Thursday evening of each month from February to November and have regular outings to places of interest. Upcoming events are listed on our calendar and advertised on our Facebook page.
Meetings
Our monthly meetings are usually an informal affair with an interesting talk from an invited speaker. Talks have covered a diverse range of topics as this list shows. Members are also invited to contribute their observations of interesting plants, animals, and other natural phenomena. A fun part of the evening is always the raffle. Members bring the prizes – books, garden produce etc and most go home with a prize. We also enjoy a chat over a coffee or tea.
Outings
We have regular outings to local places of natural history interest and occasional longer trips to more distant locations. Our walks are at a relaxed pace, focussed on the observation of nature and friendly learning assisted by members with expert knowledge about the plants or animals that we find. Walks are often followed by a gathering at a local café. Examples of recent outings can be viewed here.
Newsletter
Our wonderful editor produces an interesting and informative newsletter each month. Members are encouraged to contribute stories and photographs from our outings and their visits to places of natural interest, observations and unusual sightings and nature related news stories. You can read our newsletters here.
Student Prize
FNAC supports a prize for students at the Australian National University. The Field Naturalists Association of Canberra prize is awarded to the undergraduate student who achieves the best aggregate mark across a range of studies in relevant courses.
Governance
FNAC is an incorporated association listed on the Australian Capital Territory Registrar of Incorporated Associations. We are governed by the rules of our constitution. Affairs of the Association are managed by a Committee and other enthusiastic voluntary office holders who organize our meetings, outings and raffles and produce our newsletters. We are fortunate to have had dedicated and visionary members take on the important role of President, none more so than our longest serving president, Rosemary Blemings who held the position for two periods totalling 17 years and successfully steered FNAC through the difficult times of covid lockdowns.
Membership
If you wish to join FNAC you would be warmly welcomed. Please fill out the membership form here or come along to one our meetings and talk to a committee member.
Contact us
You can contact us here or send mail to our postal address:
Field Naturalists’ Association of Canberra
GPO Box 708 Jamison Centre ACT 2614
Australia
ABN: 38226754538