Birds on the brain - Why TAFE is going bird-crazy this October.

Tuesday, 20 October 2026

Wodonga TAFE, part of Northern Victorian Institute of TAFE, is colliding the worlds of birders and artists in celebration of the Aussie Bird Count.

Australia’s biggest citizen science event, the annual bird count aims to improve conservation efforts by taking a snapshot of bird populations across the country. “Right now, one in six Australian birds faces the threat of extinction, making it more important than ever to pay attention.” Home - Aussie Bird Count (Statement from Birdlife Australia.)

This event has been brought to life through the efforts of the OFF (Our Future Footprint) group, which is comprised of TAFE staff members who are passionate about environment, conservation and connection to Country. Activities such as this support the  Wodonga TAFE Environmental Strategy by highlighting the biodiversity profile of our campuses.

Environmental Strategic Project Lead, Emma O’Donovan says the bird count is an easy way for people to make a difference. "I think an event such as this raises awareness of the incredible bird biodiversity that we have across our campuses at NVITAFE. At a time when the entire bird population is threatened globally, this is a simple local initiative that we can participate in to contribute towards something much bigger.”

The McKoy Street campus is well known amongst locals for its beautiful grounds and natural setting along Felltimber Creek. The campus is home to a large number of native bird species, confirmed at the 2025 Bird Count event when staff recorded 35 birds across 15 different species, from the vibrant King Parrot to the iconic Ibis.

To mark the occasion, NVITAFE staff and students have submitted artworks to a gallery exhibition focussed on their favourite feathered friends.  “The exhibition provides an opportunity for students and staff alike to explore their creativity and express their ideas,” says Fleur Rhodes, Educational Leader of Creative Industries.  A total of 14 local artists are involved in the exhibition, with works on display including sculpture, photography, paintings, mixed media and textiles.

Exhibiting artist and Certificate IV in Photography & Digital Imaging student Noah McGrath will be presenting a talk on Friday 23 October, before a guided tour and bird count with BirdLife Australia’s Ben Humphries.

Members of the public are invited to view the gallery during TAFE opening hours, from Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm until the 23 October. The gallery also permanently houses artworks from past artist-in-residence Eddie “Kookaburra” Kneebone.

 

A full digital exhibition is available to view here

All artworks displayed remain the copyright of their respective artists. Please do not reproduce, photograph or distribute artworks without permission.