Maureen Cooper’s “Bimblebox: A Nature Refuge under Siege” is a wonderful introduction to both the natural and social history of Bimblebox Nature Refuge.

“Bimblebox: A Nature Refuge under Siege” is more than a book – it is a place where science, art, politics, the law, history and passion meet. And they meet inside these covers with some urgency, as the fate of this remarkable place lies in the balance. 

This book will give you glimpses into the heart of critical issues: the birdlife, threatened and otherwise; the scientific and legally vexed issue of “biodiversity offsetting” and cumulative impacts; the crucial role of big ancient tree hollows, past and present political events and more. 

Read, learn, be inspired, act.”
– Professor Hugh Possingham, The University of Queensland

Maureen Cooper has spent much time at Bimblebox, especially in bird observations. Although she now lives in Victoria, she has returned several times, to help with the Artists’ Camp for example. She has produced this book to both celebrate and save the Refuge she knows and loves, and the diverse wildlife it shelters.

A longtime member of Birds Australia, Maureen was the observer who first saw the Black-throated Finch there. Bimblebox is bird heaven: 158 bird species and 12 bird species of Conservation Significance for the Desert Uplands have been recorded there by Birds Australia (and BirdLife Southern Queensland) surveyors and scientists from 2003 to September 2019.

‘Bimblebox: A Nature Refuge under Siege’ contains stories, poems, newspaper clippings, short essays, many colour photos, a brief guide to wildlife, a brief history of the refuge, and a full list of plants and animals sighted at Bimblebox Nature Refuge so far.

We are very pleased to be able to offer our supporters this book.