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Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA), in partnership with the Glossy Black Conservancy and the support of Tweed Shire Council, will host the inaugural Glossy Festival on Saturday 19 September 2026, bringing together conservation groups, citizen scientists and the local community to raise awareness of the Glossy Black-Cockatoo, one of Australia’s smallest and most threatened black-cockatoo species.

The free, family-friendly event will run from 10am to 3pm at Jack Bayliss Park, Kingscliff, and will feature wildlife presentations, citizen science stalls, and family activities, alongside practical opportunities for the community to get involved in habitat protection and species monitoring across the Northern Rivers.

The Glossy Black-Cockatoo was listed as nationally Vulnerable in 2022, with populations continuing to decline as a result of habitat loss, including the widespread destruction of feeding and nesting habitat during the 2019–2020 bushfires. The species relies heavily on she-oak woodlands for food and hollow-bearing trees for nesting, both of which are under increasing pressure across its range.

The Glossy Festival aims to build community connection to this iconic species and give locals of all ages a hands-on way to contribute to its recovery, from habitat restoration to citizen science monitoring programs that help track remaining populations across the region.

“We’re so excited to be hosting the first Glossy Festival for the region,” said Kelly Saunderson, Project Coordinator, Conservation Volunteers Australia.

“It’s going to be a great day, with something for everyone. Come along to hear from wildlife experts, learn more about the amazing Glossy Black-Cockatoo, chat with local conservation groups, enjoy family-friendly activities and discover simple ways you can help protect this special species.”

“As with all threatened species, people hold the key to the survival of Glossy Black-Cockatoos,” said Samantha Morris, Coordinator of the Glossy Black Conservancy. “Which is why we’re supporting this Glossy Festival – a great opportunity to foster a sense of community, celebrate our precious native species, and work together to ensure all of our precious native plants and animals have a secure future.”

Members of the public are invited to attend the free event and learn more about how they can help protect this threatened species.