Rainforest Revelations

Dr Richard Smith, producer, director and presenter takes us on a journey of discovery across the continent of Australia.  Using brilliant technology and great sound effects,  Richard invites us to join him on a “rollicking adventure” that describes evolutionary processes and explains some research that has contributed to humankind’s understanding of this extraordinarily diverse landscape.

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Another Daintree Rainforest inhabitant is under the scientist’s microscope.  Australian Tarantula or Brush-footed Trapdoor spider may provide a treatment for breast cancer, The Cairns Post reported Monday 9 April 2012:

James Cook University prof Norelle Daly has received a $200,000 research grant from the National Breast Cancer Foundation to analyse whether the venom of tarantulas and funnel web spiders can kill breast cancer cells.

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Always a favourite on Cooper Creek Wilderness Nocturnal Wildlife Tours, the Giant Tree Frog or White-lipped Tree Frog (Litoria infrafrenata) was in abundance last night.  Following a very wet March with 1.5 metres of rain, favourable conditions exist.  Some frogs were bright green, indicating a descent from their diurnal concealment amongst the leafy canopy, or brown-turning-green, following their ascent from the forest floor.  Most were clinging to low vegetation less than 1 metre above ground.

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Spotted through dense tropical rainforest over a rainforest creek, this magnificent Night Citrus Swallowtail Moth (Lyssa macleayi) astonished patrons on a Cooper Creek Nocturnal Tour.  Intrepid travellers with a keen interest in nature, enter the centrepiece of the oldest surviving rainforest in the world with a view to experiencing habitat values on a nocturnal tour.  The last few nights have not disappointed!

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Cheryll Williams is the author of a collection of books entitled “Medicinal Plants in Australia.”  Volume 1 “Bush Pharmacy” is a book designed to enhance our appreciation of the medicinal history of Australia’s flora, its unique contributions to everyday life, and its extraordinary future potential.  Cheryll is also a Daintree Rainforest inhabitant who works with Wildlife Rescue caring for sick and injured animals with her partner Tony Young.

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