In April 2016, Zoologist Milly Formby began learning to pilot a microlight aircraft with the intention to fly from Australia to Siberia to promote urgent action for shorebirds – a group of mostly wetland-dwelling birds that perform the longest feats of migration known to the natural world. But sadly, increasing economic development means many of these birds have lost access to areas they rely on for food and are being pushed towards extinction.
Hear from Milly:
It will be a 12,500km journey that will take me around three months to complete in the microlight. I’ll be flying the migration route of the smallest shorebird species, the Red-necked Stint, which only weighs as much as a Tim Tam. Throughout the flight, I will conduct a research project collaborating with some of the world’s leading shorebird researchers (Danny Rogers, Phil Battley, Clive Minton) to collect data on the behavioural ecology of shorebird migration. I will also produce a documentary film that highlights how we as people are connected to our environment to promote eco-stewardship and understanding of how species extinctions and conservation actions are relevant to people.
Last week, I was at Melbourne’s Avalon Airshow to launch a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for my own set of wings to achieve this goal – a microlight aircraft. I am planning to test my new wings on a shorter flight from Melbourne to Broome at the beginning of 2019. After that, my next stop is Siberia in 2022.
Throughout the crowdfunding campaign, I am hoping to raise as much awareness for shorebirds as I am funds towards this ambitious endeavour, which is being supported by several project partners including BirdLife Australia, Recreational Aviation Australia and The University of Western Australia.
At this stage of the project, any kind of promotion is key. I wondered if NACC would be interested in hearing a talk about the project or if you have any suggestions as to other groups or people in your local area who may be interested? I thought perhaps one of the local schools might enjoy a talk for the students? Any assistance would be most welcome!
For more information or to help crowdfund Milly’s amazing journey, please visit the website>