Great Southern Bioblitz 2026

Next date: Friday, 27 November 2026 | 12:00 AM - Monday, 30 November 2026

Join us for another exciting year of the Great Southern BioBlitz, where Darebin teams up with more than 25 metropolitan Melbourne councils and a network of environmental partners to share Greater Melbourne’s biodiversity with the world.

Over four days, from 27–30 November, we’re inviting everyone in Darebin to head outside, slow down, and make observations of the incredible plants, animals, fungi, and insects that share our cities.

How to get involved

1. Download the free iNaturalist App on your phone.
2. Join Nangak Tamboree's project (includes Darebin and Banyule).
3. Get outdoors between 27–30 November and take photos of nature.
4. Upload all your observations by 14 December so they count toward the final tally.
5. Help identify other people’s observations to improve data quality.
6. Follow GSB's global project and see how we compare with cities around the world.
7.  Stay tuned for the results!

Why join the challenge

By taking part, you’ll be contributing to one of the largest citizen science biodiversity census in the Southern Hemisphere, helping scientists, councils, and community organisations better understand, protect, and celebrate nature around us.

Participating in the Great Southern Bioblitz is one small way to deepen our connection to Country, the land that the Wurundjeri Woi‑wurrung people have cared for thousands of years.

New to Citizen Science?

Visit our Citizen Science page to learn how to get started and explore in‑person events happening in Darebin as part of the Great Southern Bioblitz.

Our incredible partners

Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary, The Field Naturalists Club of Victoria, the Entomological Society of Victoria, Melbourne Water, the University of Melbourne, the Victorian Environmental Friends Network, and the Port Phillip Eco-Centre.

When

Location

All of Darebin!

Head to the Darebin Creek, Merri Creek, Edgars Creek, Edwardes Lake, your local park or reserve, or simply step into your own backyard, balcony, or nature strip… nature is everywhere.