MARY MacKillop Primary School students gathered with student leaders from across the region for the first instalment of the Young Environmental Leaders Program in Naracoorte earlier this term.
90 students from 23 schools participated in this year’s South East Natural Resources Management Board’s program, which aims to empower young people and ensure they have a connection with nature and the environment.
Students spent the morning of the first forum in Blanche Cave listening to presentations on pest plants and animals, protecting the coast, water in our landscape and the region’s biodiversity.
Following the talks, students then brainstormed ideas for projects they will work on with their schools for the year.
Naracoorte South Primary School student Taylor was excited to be involved and learn more about environmental issues.
“I nominated to be in Young Environmental Leaders Program because I thought it would be cool and interesting,” Taylor said.
“I want to help the environment as much as I can. I also hope to learn more about the red-tail black-cockatoo and how my school can help them.”
Environmental education coordinator Vanessa Freebairn said students were keen to learn and build on their knowledge of environmental issues.
“We’re excited about the enthusiasm of this year’s student group and the support of their schools to learn about our local landscape and the challenges we face in the region,” Ms Freebairn said.
The next meeting of the Young Environmental Leaders Program group will be at the Earthkeepers Camp, scheduled for later in the year.
“This year we’re focusing on local landscape topics – pests, biodiversity, water and soils,” Ms Freebairn said.
“We’re really looking forward to seeing the creative projects the Young Environmental Leaders Program students will lead.”
