Fifty-six, year six students from Palmwoods State School got their hands dirty today to take part in an ENERGEX Junior Landcare Activity Day with Maroochy Waterwatch.
Cerran Fawns, manager of Maroochy Waterwatch said, “Hundreds of native trees will be planted at Federation Park in Palmwoods including the iconic Piccabeen Palm, which gives the community its name”.
The planting extended the existing wetland in the park and provided additional habitat for the 120 bird species sighted in the park.
Ms Fawns added, “The students also investigated the water quality of Paynters Creek and learnt about how to live an environmentally sustainable lifestyle”.
The day is be made possible by funding from ENERGEX as part of a partnership with Landcare Queensland worth over $260,000.
Justin Ward, project coordinator for Landcare Queensland said, “2010 is Education Queensland’s Year of Environmental Sustainability, as well as being the International Year of Biodiversity, so the ENERGEX Junior Landcare days are a great way for a new generation of Landcarers to act locally for global change.”
As part of the students environmental sustainability education they also played the ENERGEX Energy Awareness Game to share ideas about saving energy at home and at school.
Dr Jan Green, ENERGEX environment advisor said, “School students are more aware than ever before of the environment and the need for action and change to ensure a sustainable future”.
This hands on experience teaches the students about the importance of their natural environment through experimental learning.
“By giving students the chance to get their hands dirty planting trees and investigating their local environment, we hope to help nurture a new generation of Landcarers. The Junior Landcare sponsorship is a way for ENERGEX to invest in future generations” she added.
