Wildlife photography exhibition to call rainforest conservatory home

In a world-first, Adelaide Botanic Garden’s eye-catching rainforest conservatory will be the leafy venue for a global nature photography exhibition, set to open next week.

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, on tour from the Natural History Museum in London, will make its return to Adelaide and feature 100 stunning images.

The photographs shine a light on stories and species from around the world and encourage our care and conservation of the planet. They capture fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species, and breathtaking biodiversity from across the planet.

The exhibition is the most prestigious photography event of its kind and will be showcased inside the Bicentennial Conservatory at Adelaide Botanic Garden from 29 September 2023 until 31 January 2024.

It’s the first time the exhibition will be presented amongst a living botanical collection, making this a unique offering for Adelaide visitors who will be immersed in nature as they explore the images.

Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium (BGSH) Director, Michael Harvey, said the lush backdrop will add a never-before-seen layer to the popular exhibition.

“We’ve worked hard to find a way to blend in the unique elements of the conservatory with this world-class exhibition, and we can’t wait for visitors to come and see what has been created,” Mr Harvey said.

The Bicentennial Conservatory is a such a well-known space to many South Australians so to be able to present these wildlife images in amongst its rainforest plants is exciting.”

Natural History Museum Director, Dr Doug Gurr, said the photographic talent on display will encourage curiosity, connection, and wonder.

“These inspiring images convey human impact on the natural world in a way that words cannot – from the urgency of declining biodiversity to the inspiring bounce back of a protected species,” Dr Gurr said.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year was launched in 1965 and showcases the work of some of the world’s best nature photographers. This season, the competition received entries from over 90 countries all over the world.

Exhibition details

Location: Adelaide Botanic Garden, Bicentennial Conservatory (reference C13 on the map)

Dates: 29 September 2023 – 31 January 2024

Times: Open daily from 10:00am until 4:00pm (closed 25 December).

Tickets: $10 for adults, $8 for students and concession card holders, free entry for children 12 years and younger. Tickets are available on the door, or can be booked online. Please note this is a cashless venue.

For more information and to book your tickets, visit the BGSH website. https://bit.ly/ABG_WPY23