Inspiring people, inspiring conservation…and snot otters

Congratulations to SA 2018 Churchill Fellow Nick Whiterod, who delivered a rich and entertaining presentation on his Fellowship, as one might expect given its intriguing title, at the Payneham Library in Adelaide on Saturday 14 November.

As the inaugural Richard Rischbieth Memorial Churchill Fellow, in 2019 Nick travelled for 66 days meeting with more than 50 experts across cities and towns over five countries (Costa Rica, USA, UK, Republic of Ireland and Sweden). His Fellowship project aim was to develop world-leading reintroduction strategies for threatened South Australian aquatic species.

On the morning after receiving his medallion at the CFA SA dinner on Friday 13 November 2020, Nick shared findings from his Fellowship Report, and explained how he is now implementing these to benefit the conservation of freshwater species in Australia. His presentation led to an engaging Q&A session, and further discussions with the new 2020 Richard Rischbieth Memorial Churchill Fellow, Andrew Christian who had travelled from Port Lincoln to receive his award the day prior also.

The Trust would like to thank Henry Rischbieth for hosting and organising this opportunity for Nick to share his experiences. Henry, who was awarded the 2000 Paraplegic Benefit Fund Churchill Fellowship to study electrical stimulation for people with spinal cord injury and stroke, went on to sponsor the Richard Rischbieth Churchill Fellowship in honour of his late father, a renowned neurologist and passionate supporter of the natural environment.

This event was made even more special by the attendance of numerous members of the Rischbieth family, including Richard’s wife, Judy Rischbieth, and son Peter.

A video of Nick’s presentation will be uploaded to our website soon. Please contact Kirsty Guster if you would like to be updated when it is available.