On 21 November, 2018, John travelled to the picturesque town of Exeter in the Southern Highlands of NSW to deliver a workshop on dung beetles.

The event had been organised by the Exeter Branch of the Country Women’s Association and was held in the Exeter Village Hall. Over 80 enthusiastic and interested people were in attendance.

Following John’s presentation, members of the audience were able to ask questions about the introduction of dung beetles on their properties or other issues of concern. 

These covered a wide range of topics including the appropriate species of dung beetle; the seasons of the year when they were active; property and herd size; ensuring the sustainability of dung beetle populations; animals other than horses and cattle such as alpacas; and many others.

There was also an opportunity for attendees to get up close and personal with dung beetles.

John would like to express his appreciation to the Exeter Branch of the Country Women’s Association for the excellent organisation that went into the workshop and the wonderful morning tea that followed. 

John considered it one of best workshops on dung beetles that it has been his privilege to participate in. 

He would like to express particular thanks to Bec Hogan and Beth Sharp, President of the Exeter Branch of the CWA.