Cairns to Host 20th International Bat Research Conference

Mittwoch, 11.06.2025
From 3–8 August 2025, the Cairns Convention Centre will welcome over 400 bat research and conservation experts for the triennial IBRC. The event is co-hosted by the Australasian Bat Society and the Pacific Bat Conservation Network.
A painted picture of many colourful bats

IBRC 2025 convenes over 400 global bat experts in Cairns for research, conservation and fieldwork. Picture: Arison Kul from Lae in Papua New Guinea

The 20th International Bat Research Conference will bring symposia, workshops and field trips to Tropical North Queensland, showcasing topics such as wind energy impacts, genomic conservation tools and bat disease management. Delegates will convene at the Cairns Convention Centre, taking advantage of the region’s 44 native bat species and local research community.

Global Collaboration and Local Biodiversity Insights

Organisers highlight six days of scientific exchange, including field excursions to Rainforestation Nature Park, Tolga Bat Hospital, Cattana Wetlands and Kuranda. The conference aims to foster international partnerships and apply First Nations knowledge, while delivering economic and educational benefits as delegates explore nearby natural attractions like the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef.