Herbaria generosity gifted to people of Eyre Peninsula

This is thanks to the work of four enthusiastic Friends of Parks Members; Sally and Barney Williams; Ian and Chris Abbott and their supportive Volunteer teams - the Friends of Coffin Bay Parks and Friends of Southern Eyre Parks.

Natural Resources Officer Peter Wilkins said the people of Eyre Peninsula have been honoured to receive this donation.

“This fantastic resource from the Williams and Abbots Families will greatly assist the public and staff alike in identifying plants of Lower Eyre Peninsula.”

Sally Williams, assisted by husband Barney, created their herbarium from permitted plant specimens from the Coffin Bay National Park and Kellidie Conservation Park. Sally completed her herbarium in 2010, shortly before passing away.

Ian and Chris Abbott’s herbarium is a comprehensive collection of permitted plants from Lincoln National Park and southern EP. Ian has been collecting for fifteen years and together with Chris has invested more than 3000 hours in the collection. Ian’s work continues as he plans to make an index for both herbaria.

Mr Wilkins said the generosity of the two Friends of Park volunteers and their spouses is admirable.

“We ask people to respect the effort that has gone into these collections, and handle the 133 Volume collection of botanical specimens with great care,” he said.

To access the Herbaria or find out about joining a local Friends of Park group please visit the Natural Resource Centre - Port Lincoln, Level 1, 86 Tasman Terrace or call 8688 3111.

For more information on obtaining a plant collection permit please visit: www.environment.sa.gov.au/managing-natural-resources/Plants_Animals/Permits_licences/Native_plants_in_the_wild