The City of Mitcham welcomes all to these free community events.

Parasites – the good, the bad and the ugly
16 August @ 6-7pm | Mitcham Memorial Library

Parasites are far more diverse than the disease-causing organisms most people think they are. They are often vital components of ecosystems the loss of parasites from the ecosystems they are a part of can have cascading negative impacts due to their ecological roles. Join Dr Gerrut Norval as he provides some insight into different forms of parasitism and their ecological roles – and why their conservation is warranted.

Hosted by Dr Gerrut Norval is an ecologist with an interest in parasite-host associations. His research entails natural history studies and chance observations to elucidate the ecology of parasites (primarily ticks) and their hosts.

Friends in our food – zoonotic parasites
23 August @ 6-7pm | Mitcham Memorial Library

Parasites make up 50% of the biodiversity of the world so it is not surprising that they are everywhere, including, potentially, in things we eat. Join Dr Di Barton as she explores zoonotic parasites – what they are, how they get into food and things you should know.

Hosted by Dr Di Barton is a wildlife parasitologist who has worked across a range of host animal groups, from sharks to feral deer. Her major interest is in finding and describing new species, but on the way she has spent a lot of time looking at many different types of parasites, including those that can infect people.

Session are open to all ages, children under the age of 12 years require parental/ guardian support.

Although our skilled staff will be on-site, parent/carers are responsible for the supervision of their children during the session.

If you get tickets but are unable to attend please cancel your ticket as spaces are limited.