News Archive

It’s all about the birds and the bees and for Bron Ayre the preservation of our State Floral Emblem; the Red and Green Kangaroo Paw.

Bron took out first place at the Western Australian FameLab Semi-Final with her research on understanding the critical role birds play in pollinating South Western plants. Having only three minutes for her presentation she said it was tough picking one element of her research.

“I chose to compare bird and bee pollinators. Many don’t realise that bird pollination is essential for the survival of Kangaroo Paws – bees just don’t do the job,” says Bron.

Once graduating from Bunbury Catholic College, Bron moved up to Perth to pursue a career in science. At first she hated plants but realised while animals run away plants stay still so she can actually study them. Bron began her research project as a PhD student at The University of Western Australia (UWA) while living on campus at University Hall. In 2016 alone she was invited as a guest speaker to present on her research for over 10 workshops, seminars and leadership forums at UWA and University Hall.

Now she her research lab is based in The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority in Kings Park where every day she soaks in the beautiful scenery and Perth city views.

Bron has enjoyed every moment of this competition where she is thrilled to be amongst scientists from all over Australia.

“Everyone is so passionate about their research, it’s really inspiring to be part of this!” she says.

Bron is all set to present with a new angle on her research in the national FameLab Grand Final hosted by leading astrophysicist, Dr Alan Duffy, at the Western Australian Maritime Museum in Fremantle on Thursday 4 May.

The Australian winner will be flown to London to present at the FameLab International Grand Final at the Times Cheltenham Science Festival in June, competing with scientists from more than 25 countries.

You can catch the grand final on the live stream link at www.australiascience.tv/live-event/famelab-australia-2017-final/

Media references

Kelly Sheppard, Marketing and Communication Officer, University Hall, [email protected]