Northern Rivers wildlife enthusiasts are invited to attend a new festival celebrating  black-cockatoos later this month.

The inaugural Glossy Festival will bring conservation groups, citizen scientists and families together at Jack Bayliss Park Kingcliff on Saturday, September 19, to raise awareness of the Glossy Black-Cockatoo.

The free event, organised by Conservation Volunteers Australia in partnership with the Glossy Black Conservancy and with support from Tweed Shire Council, will run from 10am to 3pm.

Wildlife presentations, citizen science displays and family activities will be on offer, along with information about how people can help protect and monitor Glossy Blacks across the Northern Rivers.

The Glossy Black-Cockatoo was listed as nationally Vulnerable in 2022, with habitat loss and the destruction of feeding and nesting areas during the 2019–20 bushfires contributing to population declines.

The birds rely heavily on she-oaks for food and hollow-bearing trees for nesting.

Conservation Volunteers Australia project coordinator Kelly Saunderson said the festival would give people a chance to learn more about the species and practical ways to help its recovery.

“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,” she said.

The Glossy Festival is free and will be held at Jack Bayliss Park, Kingscliff, from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, September 19.

PHOTO: A Glossy Black-Cockatoo. Photo: Geoff White.