insect images
The Society's emblem, chosen in 1973, on the 50th anniversary of the Society, is the King Stag Beetle, Phalacrognathus muelleri (Macleay), Family Lucanidae (Coleoptera). Its magnificent purple and green colouration makes it one of the most attractive beetle species in Australia. It is restricted to the rainforests of northern Queensland.

Archive of past Queensland Entomologists

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
                                                   

Iwan Helmsing

Iwan Wassil HELMSING (1884-1940)

Born in England. Did clerical work in England and Germany before going farming in Patagonia and later fruit growing in New Zealand where became an instructor in horticulture. Moved to Australia and became successful banana grower in NSW Tweed River district. Always interested in microscopy and art and travelled with his own microscope since boyhood.  Joined Queensland Department of Agriculture and Stock as an illustrator in 1924 and prepared water colour and black and white illustration of insects used in research papers and advisory leaflets. Also pioneered photomicroscopy in the Department.  Keen leisure bushwalker. Published detailed study of biology and distribution of newly discovered gondwanan moss bug (Peloridiidae) at Lamington National Park in 1937, illustrated with his drawings and photographs.

Obituary: Anon. 1940. Queensland Agricultural Journal  53:413