GeoTalks at Henllys HPB
Every 6 weeks or so throughout the year Professor Cynthia Burek gives a GeoTalks at Henllys HPB to the guests staying at the Henllys Holiday Property Bond Hotel located in Beaumaris, on ‘GeoMôn UNESCO Global Geopark – An introduction to its Geology, Geodiversity & Geoconservation.’
These talks are held in the lounge of Henllys and last between 1 hour and 1 ½ hours. Please note these talks are only for the resident guests. This often depends on the number in the audience and the amount of questions and discussion. The audience is mixed both in gender, age and previous knowledge. Most of the listeners do not know that Anglesey is a UNESCO Global Geopark and even less know what a Geopark is. Audiences vary between 6-27. Since the talks started in 20190 over 345 people have listened to the talks.
GeoTalks at Henllys HPB also involve a small amount of practical work where participants are asked to recognise different minerals and rocks from a small selection in a plastic Chinese take away box! The boxes are shared one between two to encourage discussion. This often results in laughter and learning. It is a pleasant way to think about plate tectonics and the difference between minerals and rocks. Once the geodiversity of GeoMon Geopark is recognised and appreciated, locations are given on maps to show where the different aspects can be located and to encourage the tourists to go and look for themselves. A visit to the Watchhouse is also encouraged.
The success of these talks results in a greater holiday experience for the tourists and the continued request to give the talks by HPB. Books, leaflets and goods produced by the Geopark are on sale after the lecture. The tourists are appreciative of the time and effort made to protect this unique island.
Professor Cynthia Burek
