CSSA August Gathering 2026

Hope you can join us at the CSSA January Gathering! For those unable to attend the hall, we will still be on Zoom (details on how to join can be found below) and the Gathering recording will be posted to the CSSA Members-Only Group (usually within 48 hours).

 Our Speaker this month is Randall Robinson - Emphasising the role of plant societies in solutions for habitat-collected plants

Plant societies like the Cactus and Succulent Society of Australia, play a pivotal role in the conservation and ethical stewardship of cacti and succulent plants. These organisations act as hubs for education, advocacy, and community engagement. By promoting awareness of international (CITES) and Australian legislation, plant societies help members understand the legal and ethical implications of collecting and trading habitat-collected plants. This talk will address specific roles the CSSA can take to help shape policies and practices that protect vulnerable species, ensuring that both enthusiasts and the broader community can enjoy cacti and succulents for generations to come.

Randall Robinson is an Honorary Professor at Victoria University, Melbourne whose career reflects a deep commitment to education, research and the advancement of horticultural science. Educated in the Biological, horticultural and
environmental sciences, Professor Robinson has focused his academic work on understanding plant ecology, conservation and sustainable horticultural practice. He has played a pivotal role in horticultural outreach and engagement and has collaborated with specialist plant groups, botanical gardens and conservation organisations to promote awareness of plant diversity and the importance of sustainable cultivation. His work often bridges the gap between rigorous scientific research and its application in gardens and native landscapes, making complex ecological concepts accessible to practitioners and enthusiasts. His extensive collections of plants Orchids, Cacti, Succulents, Clivia and Bromeliads.

 POTM: Hairy cactus

 AT THE HALL:

Members/Visitors/Guests will need to sign in with the CSSA, this is for Society Insurance purposes and must be completed.
For the all-important Supper Break please remember to bring your own mug for a cuppa!

The order of proceedings will be as follows (approximate times):

• 6.00pm Hall will open to set-up the venue and for Sellers (if you can assist with set-up this would be appreciated)
• 6.45pm Members/Guests/Visitors may enter the Hall
• 7.15pm Zoom room will open
• 7.30pm Monthly Gathering starts
• 8.30pm Presentation commences
• 9.30pm Gathering close and pack up (if you can assist with pack-up this would be appreciated)

 FOR THOSE WISHING TO JOIN THE MEETING VIRTUALLY:

CSS Australia Members are provided the Zoom details via email and the Members-Only FB Group.

If you would like to join the Monthly Gathering Zoom room as a Guest/Visitor, please contact us via email (enquiries@cssaustralia.org.au) no later than 24 hours prior to commencement of the Monthly Gathering.

Guests/Visitors are welcome to attend our Monthly Gatherings either at the hall or via Zoom for up to three occasions; after this time, we ask you to become a Member. More information about our Membership is available on our Website (https://cssaustralia.org.au/membership).