With a distinct love for exploring the outdoors and birdlife in particular, Tatura’s Jacob Dedman has put together not one but two booklets on the birds of Cussen Park.
Spending much of his time behind the lens with his business Digital Journey Photography, Jacob said his family members were always on the go with field guides on hand, searching for wildlife to snap during their travels.
He said creating the second comprehensive guide of bird life was somewhat of a full-circle moment.
Jacob was 13 when he made the first edition, at a time when he was “extremely into birds”.
“I had about 10 bird guides, some being around 500 pages; I wanted to produce one of that size for Cussen Park to showcase the wetland and the fauna,” he said.
As his home-schooling teacher and his mum, Cheryl Dedman admired Jacob’s dedication and suggested a leaflet instead.
“I did not want a leaflet,” Jacob said, with a laugh.
“We decided on a 30-page book with a list of all the birds ever seen at Cussen Park; it was a major project, but we got it done.
“Now four years later, we’ve done the second edition.”
The second book launched on Tuesday, April 19, featuring new snaps, species and a whole new layout.
Jacob also designed both the front and back covers, along with collating information on the birds within.
The launch attracted more than 30 guests, with five councillors in attendance, including City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Kim O’Keeffe.
Representatives from Landcare, RiverConnect and members from Birdlife Murray Goulburn also attended in what Mrs Dedman called a huge show of support.
“So many people in our community have helped with information but also encouragement, a lot of encouragement for Jacob to continue to produce these books,” she said.
Booklets are available at the Tatura Post Office, The Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority office, Greater Shepparton City Council and the Greater Shepparton Visitor Centre
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