What is a BioBlitz?

A BioBlitz is a fun, self-guided biodiversity survey that helps uncover the rich variety of plants, animals, fungi, and insects living in urban green spaces—contributing valuable data to conservation, research, and education efforts.

You can take part all year round. All you need is your smartphone or a camera. We encourage you to record local plants and animals spotted at Melbourne General Cemetery using iNaturalist or eBird.

Our Project Cultivate areas are rich in biodiversity but at risk of destruction due to human activities. To help protect these biodiversity hotspots, please stay on the paths where possible and ensure pets are kept on lead at all times.

It’s official: biodiversity is back at Melbourne General Cemetery.

Thanks to the power of citizen science, we’ve recorded a remarkable 160% increase in biodiversity at the site since Project Cultivate began in 2023.

A big thank you to the 50+ people of all ages who joined the Project Cultivate BioBlitz, run by the City of Melbourne in March 2026. Over just one weekend, iNaturalist logged 90 observations, with 48 new species added to the site’s records.

1. Get set up

Grab the iNaturalist app from the App Store or Google Play, or jump onto iNaturalist.ala.org.au. Create an account with a username you’ll actually remember — bonus points if it’s nature‑themed!

2. Snap what you see
Found a busy bug? A mystery bird? A plant that brings unexpected joy (and native fauna)? Open the app and take a photo or upload one you’ve already captured. You can also add observations straight to the website.

3. Share your spotting
Once you’ve got your photo, hit Submit. iNaturalist’s clever community (and its AI helper) will pitch in to suggest what species you’ve found.

4. Join the community adventure
Browse what others are discovering, chat in the comments, compare sightings, and become part of a global citizen‑science effort — just by sharing what you see outside.

March 2026 | Insect BioBlitz

Join the Insect BioBlitz this March!

Did you know that Melbourne shares its natural environment with more than 1,500 different insect species?

From 1 to 7 March 2026, SMCT is taking part in the City of Melbourne Insect BioBlitz. Help us discover all the local insects who call Melbourne General Cemetery home.

Learn how to be an iNaturalist and join in one of the many activities in the City during the Insect BioBlitz including a walk and talk session at Melbourne General Cemetery on Saturday 7 March.

Visit the City of Melbourne Insect BioBlitz website for more information on how to get involved

Become an iNaturalist

Wednesday 18 February 2026 06:00 pm to 07:00 pm

This is an online session to learn how to use iNaturalist hosted by Melbourne Gardens for Wildlife. iNaturalist is a free data collection platform to help you record and share what you see in nature .

You will hear from ecologist, entomologist and science communicator Dr Luis Mata who will take you through what iNaturalist is, how to use the platform, and tips for making high-quality observations with a focus on insects.

Location: This training session will take place online (Microsoft Teams)

Register here with the City of Melbourne

Project Cultivate BioBlitz – Melbourne General Cemetery

Saturday 7 March 2026 10:00 am to 11:30 am

Join us at the iconic Melbourne General Cemetery for a morning insect BioBlitz.

As part of a guided walk, you will explore the cemetery’s new native grasslands as part of 'Project Cultivate’. Hear all about what’s been planted by Helen Tuton, Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust Horticulture Assets Manager, and record insects you spot along the walk using iNaturalist.

Location: Melbourne General Cemetery, Macpherson Street entrance, Parkville 3052

Register here with the City of Melbourne