ECU's Dr Leanda Mason identifying trapdoor spider burrows in Tammin. Credit: Caitlin Henderson.
The quiet Wheatbelt town of Tammin came alive earlier this month with a weekend of science, storytelling and celebrations to mark 50 years of ecological research on the trapdoor spider.
The Matriarchs of the Wheatbelt festival celebrated the life and legacy of the late Professor Barbara York Main OAM, a pioneering researcher in mygalomorph (trapdoor) spiders.
Led by Dr Leanda Mason, Vice Chancellor Research Fellow at Edith Cowan University, the event honoured Professor York Main's scientific and literary contributions, including the establishment of a long-term study site in Tammin that has been continuously monitoring trapdoor spiders for 50 years.
"This global milestone honours the life and work of Barbara - a pioneering scientist, author, and wise matriarch of Tammin," Dr Mason said. "Known affectionately as 'The Spider Lady', Barbara was one of the first women to earn a PhD in zoology from the University of Western Australia and spent her lifetime studying and advocating for trapdoor spiders.
"Her legacy lives on not just in her research, but in the generations of people she inspired."
The festival theme 'Weaving Stories in Place' reflected a commitment to blending ecological knowledge, heritage and community engagement. Tammin Town Hall served as the central hub for educational activities, with storytelling, performances and interactive workshops.
Among the highlights was an exclusive screening of Lady of the Spiders, narrated by none other than Sir David Attenborough. The documentary highlighted the life and work of Professor York Main, showcasing her groundbreaking research.
Eighty-five trapdoor spider burrows were identified during the citizen survey event. Credit: Caitlin Henderson.
Dr Mason said the citizen survey event was overwhelmingly popular, with participants ranging from local community members, Aboriginal Elders and knowledge-holders, scientists, educators, conservation practitioners, and children, finding and recording 85 trapdoor spider burrows.
"This population will have some spiders translocated to Perth Zoo and ensure protection of this species for the next 50 years," Dr Mason said.
"This was a wonderful opportunity to connect with diverse communities, celebrate a truly unique legacy and be part of honouring a lifetime of research, resilience, and pride in place."
