THE Lady Nelson Visitor and Discovery Centre will be open after dark this month to host a display of glowing ghost mushrooms, providing a taste of Ghost Mushroom Lane, which is based in the pine forest near Glencoe.
Photographs by Ockert Le Roux of ghost mushrooms were among images attracting interest to the unique species in the South East, prompting him to work with Forestry SA and One Forty One Plantations to create a unique tourism opportunity.
Last year, 18,000 people visited the inaugural forest trail initiative leading to the glowing mushrooms.
This year the concept has expanded to include organised tours in the forest and an inside display at the Mount Gambier visitor centre – a joint initiative between the centre, Forestry SA and Tourism Mount Gambier.
“The success of the ghost mushroom program in its first year was astounding and this indoor display provides an opportunity for those less mobile and unable to walk in the dark forest the chance to see this phenomenon up close,” Mount Gambier City Council tourism and economic development manager Donna Foster said.
The ghost mushrooms are seasonal, first appearing in early May and disappearing by mid-June.
Their soft green glow can only be seen at night, in a dark environment.
The indoor display replicates the forest environment, with a narrative played to provide the audience with background and biological information on the mushroom.
Each week, fresh mushrooms will be harvested and delivered to the visitor centre by Forestry SA, which is also providing tours near Glencoe.
The centre opening hours will be extended on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings during May.
Bookings can be made for one of three sessions at 6pm, 6.30pm or 7pm.
Book via email at visitorcentre@mountgambier.sa.gov.au or call 8724 9750.
Group bookings are welcome.
Visit www.forestrysa.com.au/ghostmushrooms for more details on the mushroom season.
