Tuber forming terrestrial orchids grow in cooler climates such as Victoria. They are not to be confused with epiphyte orchids which grow in trees and rocks in warm humid climate in places like Queensland. Because terrestrial orchids are fragile and hard to spot, Rob urges people to stay on marked paths to avoid trampling them. He also emphasises not handling or picking these tiny endangered species. Their survival depends on it. “Orchids are a popular flower because of their uniqueness so we want to protect them. I’m an orchid hunter and I enjoy photographing them. I’m happy to share my photos online on the iNaturalist website because it helps to educate people. Photography, for me, is about documenting the world,” he says. By identifying species, Rob can help preserve them. Three of the six Thelymitra (sun orchid) species Rob found were previously undiscovered. He had the honour of naming them. He named one, Thelymitra Aurorea, after his favourite Norwegian singer/songwriter/producer, AURORA, aka ‘The Fairy of Pop’. It’s an appropriate name for such a dainty, delicate flower. Its pale colouration with blue spots and pink trichomes reflects AURORA with her blue eyes and signature stripes of pink makeup.
The kind of orchids I’m studying thrive in remnant heathland environments and some are unique to Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula Some of the new species were found at a reserve that hadn’t been publicly accessible for eighty years. This respite gave the native flora and fauna an opportunity to thrive undisturbed. “There was such a density of native orchids in this unexplored place. It was incredible. I had to learn a whole new botanical vocabulary to write up the papers on them,” he says. It also highlights how precious remnant habit in places like HMAS Cerberus might be. Four hundred of the 1,800 known species of native orchids in Australia are found in Victoria. Half of these species are threatened with extinction. Citizen scientists like Rob are working to change the outlook for these fragile flowers, some of which are no bigger than a fingernail. “The kind of orchids I’m studying thrive in remnant heathland environments and some are unique to Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. There aren’t many of these areas left due to housing development and land loss through farming. Some of these species might only flower a few times during their 30 years lifespan, so it’s vital we protect their habitats” he says. continued next page ...
ORCHID DEMONSTRATIONS IN SEPTEMBER Come learn how to care for, repot and divide your orchids - Demonstrations 10:30am every Thursday and Saturday in September. Ever wondered how often to water your Phalaenopsis? How to repot a small orchid seedling or divide a large Cymbidium. Head down to White Hill Orchids and let us answer all your questions. Detailed list of demonstrations can be found on our Facebook and Instagram pages. @whitehillorchids White Hill Orchids offers easy to grow orchids, fern mounts, fertilisers, orchid potting mix and more. Whether you’re just starting your orchid journey or you’re a seasoned collector, there’s something for everyone!
Location (Mornington Peninsula) 430 White Hill Road, Dromana Open: 9am to 3pm Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun
Contact phone: 0451 853 612 email: info@whitehillorchids.com.au @whitehillorchids September 2026 PENINSULA essence | 9