New Ways to Tackle Tough Weeds

Sunshine Coast Council

Cairncross Conversations 2025: Melissa Hele discusses cutting-edge technology for managing invasive species in our region

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

Explore the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. Immerse your senses in a rainforest filled with plant and animal life overlooking the spectacular Glasshouse Mountains.

See what's on: https://mary-cairncross.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/see-and-do/what-s-on

The growing spread and impact of invasive weeds requires fresh, forward-thinking approaches to management. Rising to this challenge is Melissa Hele, Invasive Species Officer at Sunshine Coast Council.Melissa leads the Invasive Weeds Project, where she and her team are exploring cutting-edge technologies to enhance plant identification and monitor landscapes at scale. Their research includes the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect terrestrial vines, and drone-based artificial intelligence for automated plant detection.Join us for this timely and insightful presentation to discover how data-driven, scalable solutions are transforming the future of invasive plant management on the Sunshine Coast.Registration is essential.This talk will be held in the Rainforest Discovery Centre, Cairncross theatrette, level 1 (accessible by lift or stairs) and is part of Sunshine Coast's <a href="https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/environment/invasive-plants-and-animals" title="https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/environment/invasive-plants-and-animals" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Invasive Species Month</a>.

This event is part of the Cairncross Conversations series: environmental, informative and on-point learning experiences for the community, held at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve's Rainforest Discovery Centre.