This September, have some froggy fun after dark – with a twist! Frog lessons for wellbeing combine the importance of caring for the environment and cultivating wellbeing in a truly ribbit-ing way.

You can explore local wetlands in Gungahlin, Hackett, and Farrer while practicing the art of whole-body listening under the cloak of night.

Throughout September, you can explore local wetlands while practicing the art of whole-body listening under the cloak of night.

You will learn about our local amphibian species and the importance of their habitats. Fun activities will help sharpen your senses to become present, aware, and mindful of the things around you – even with your eyes shut!

The event is run by ACT FrogWatch and Landcare ACT’s Wellbeing through Nature program.

ACT FrogWatch co-ordinator Anke Maria Hoefer (well known for her frog call imitations) and Landcare ACT’s wellbeing co-ordinator Sally Holliday will co-host these evening explorations.

Together, they will combine the attraction of our four-legged amphibian friends with the joy of being out and about under the stars.

“Frogs are cute, iconic, and a much-loved part of our local environment,” Ms Hoefer said. “But they’re also under threat from habitat loss, climate change, and introduced species, to name just a few.

“Thanks to ACT Government funding, the FrogWatch-run annual FrogCensus keeps a close eye on how they are tracking in the capital region.

“People have a keen interest in frogs, their wetland habitats, and how to recognize them by their calls. They also enjoy being out and about. They’ll leap at opportunities to engage with nature.” 

This is where Ms Holliday comes in. Since Landcare ACT’s Wellbeing through Nature program began last December, she has helped hundreds of Canberrans find tranquillity in the outdoors through nature-based activities, including guided mindfulness walks – but none yet at night.

She knows that “the act of slowing down, focusing your attention, and connecting deeply with your surroundings has myriad benefits for mind and body. Doing this with others creates further opportunities for connection and shared discovery.”

Sounds like an un-frog-ettable mix? Absolutely!

The three events of this series are tailored to suit different audiences, and can be booked on Eventbrite.

The Wellbeing through Nature program is supported by the ACT Government’s Health Promotion Grants scheme.

Froggy Facts After Dark in Gungahlin (Wednesday, 7 September) is a special youth event, for bright young things aged 16 to 26.

Frogs Up Late in Hackett (Friday, 16 September) is just for grown-ups (25+).

Froggy Fun After Dark in Farrer (Wednesday, 21 September) is open to all.

For more information on the activities, contact [email protected] or [email protected].