Interview with Caley McGillvary – Fungi Enthusiast

Exploring the Fascinating World of Fungi with Caley McGillvary.

In this episode of Strange Intelligences, we explore the fabulous world of fungi with Caley, a passionate fungiphile known for her exciting excursions hunting for mushrooms and spore life.

Caley’s, fungal journey began in Scotland, where the freedom to roam allowed her to explore vast forest trails rich with diverse specimens. Intrigued by their variety, she joined a local club, sparking a decade-long passion that continues today in New Zealand.

With a background in film and television—particularly in horror—Caley brings a unique perspective to the study of fungi. She discusses how these organisms have the potential to save our world by biodegrading plastics, supporting bee populations, and offering innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

Caley experiments with growing moulds and mycelium at home, exploring culinary applications and the intricate relationships between different fungi species.

We explore the concept of fungi intelligence, their unique ways of navigating the world, and their complex interactions within ecosystems. Caley emphasises that fungi are their own kingdom—neither plant nor animal—with incredible diversity and significance often overlooked.

This discussion took place in the context of the Strange Intelligences Lab.

Interview by Dr Maggie Buxton, Director of AwhiWorld and video production and editing by Jarred Taylor.

Caley is a dedicated fungi enthusiast based in Whangārei, New Zealand. With a keen interest in the natural world, she organizes free mushroom foraging walks during the colder months, welcoming everyone to join and learn more about the diverse fungi in the region. These community events educate participants about mushrooms and generate a deeper appreciation for the environment.

Professionally, Caley works for her local council in the walking and cycling sector, promoting safe and sustainable transport options. Her role aligns with her passion for environmental sustainability and community engagement. She brings experience in communications and engagement across various sectors, including sports, arts, culture, and artificial intelligence.

Outside of her professional and mycological pursuits, Caley maintains a website, scotchhopped.com, where she shares her adventures and insights into the natural world. You can also follow her discoveries on Instagram @nzfungi, where she showcases the unique and fascinating fungi of New Zealand.