A famed Australian palaeontologist and a leading terrestrial ecologist will come together to share stories about Australia’s most famous fossil site next month.

Professor Mike Archer and James Cook University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Iain Gordon will both feature at the 'Science at the Pub' series conducted by the Wet Tropics Management Authority, and provide a light hearted and entertaining look at the region’s dynamic and diverse environment.

The Authority’s Executive Director Scott Buchanan says Prof Mike Archer and JCU’s Prof Iain Gordon will dig into the rich past of two World Heritage site’s – Riversleigh and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Areas.

“Many of the fossils found at Riversleigh are the ancient relatives of the wildlife we see in the Wet Tropics today,” Buchanan says.

“The Professors have an amazing story to share - spanning millions of years - which will give people an insight into just how special our World Heritage listed areas really are.”

Some of Riversleigh’s fossils date as far back as 25 million years ago and include ancestors of the now extinct Tasmanian tiger.

Professor Archer has been exploring Riversleigh for more than three decades, and serves as a member of the Riversleigh Community and Scientific Advisory Committee.

“There will no doubt be some fascinating discussions about the Professor’s past experiences,” Buchanan says.

Prof. Gordon says the audience will embark on a journey deep into the past before glancing briefly into the future.

“I’m looking forward to sharing the history of two great World Heritage listed areas that have much in common,” he said.

Science at the Pub will be held on Monday, March 13 at the Cape York Hotel in Cairns. The event starts at 6.30pm.