Love nature and want to learn more about Yarra’s local plants and animals? Get involved in the 2023 City Nature Challenge!

The annual City Nature Challenge is a global citizen science event where participating cities across the world 'compete' for the most observations and most species of plants, animals and fungi.

This year in Yarra, we're joining forces with over 20 councils and organisations to show the world our incredible biodiversity.

How to get involved

Step 1: Download the free iNaturalist app on your mobile device or head to the website to create a free account. iNaturalist is the preferred platform where nature observations are uploaded.

Step 2: Prepare for the challenge by practicing your photo and nature observation skills and become familiar with the iNaturalist platform.

Step 3: Explore Yarra and record as many wild plant, animal and fungi as you can between Friday 28 April to Monday 1 May. All observations captured on the four days contribute to the challenge!

Free City Nature Challenge events in Yarra

Beginner iNaturalist and Plant ID Training
Wednesday 19 April
3pm to 5pm
North Carlton Railway Neighbourhood House - 20 Solly Avenue, Princes Hill

Collingwood Children’s Farm Blitz
Friday 28 April
10am to 12 noon
Collingwood Children's Farm - 18 Saint Heliers Street, Abbotsford 

Bugs and Biodiversity in Burnley Park
Saturday 29 April
10am to 12 noon
Meet at Burnley Backyard - 49 Tudor Street, Richmond 

Helpful resources

• Learn more about the iNaturalist platform in their Frequently Asked Questions and Video Tutorials.
• Watch the iNaturalist training webinar* with Dr Luis Mata
• Watch The Small and Mighty Micro World webinar*
• Watch the Leaves, Feathers and Scales: Macro World webinar*

*Organised on behalf of the 2021 and 2022 Greater Melbourne collaboration by Boroondara, Stonnington, Monash, Hume, Moreland, Banyule, Darebin, Knox, Merri-bek and Mitchell councils.