Hands-on farming animal experience

Mount Gambier Child Care Centre teacher Nik Grosvenor shows student Chloe how to hold a chick.

HUNDREDS of children had a sneak peak of this year’s Ag Learning Centre at the Mount Gambier Show in the lead-up to the big event, enjoying a hands-on experience with the many baby animals.

From piglets and puppies to alpacas and chicks, the children with the help of Grant High School students learnt how to properly care for animals commonly on farms throughout the region.

With feeding and milking demonstrations, children who have not been exposed to farming life gained a better understanding of how things work.

Grant High School agricultural science teacher Scott Cram said the centre – which was founded in 2004 – is a great way for students to interact with the community.

“Students don’t have to be studying ag science to be able to take part in the Ag Learning Centre,” he said.

“It is about them connecting with others in the community and learning how to look after the different animals.”

Student Piper Killick said she had a lot of fun being involved.

“I volunteered to take part for a couple of days in the lead-up to the show because I really love animals and getting to spend time with the puppies and chicks,” she said.