Students across East Gippsland learned about the environment and catchments through an engaging mix of wildlife encounters and creative art, as the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA) presented its Catchment Connections roadshow.
The program travelled across the region visiting schools in Swifts Creek, Lakes Entrance, Bruthen, Newmerella and Mallacoota, bringing hands on environmental learning directly to local students.
Delivered in partnership with Black Snake Productions, the program featured live native animals including endangered frog and snake species, turtles, goannas, a sugar glider, bandicoot, masked owl, swift parrot and a fruit bat as part of an interactive presentation focused on biodiversity, waterway health and a special emphasis on threatened species found in East Gippsland.
The East Gippsland CMA teamed up with the East Gippsland Art Gallery to incorporate a creative element into the program. Students took part in guided art sessions, where they decorated a threatened species while learning about it, combining science and creativity to deepen their understanding.
“East Gippsland CMA is always keen to support schools and provide opportunities for students to develop a deeper understanding of the environment,” said Bec Hemming, East Gippsland CMA CEO.
“This program highlights the vital role that healthy habitats play in supporting threatened species, while making learning fun, interactive and memorable.”
By combining wildlife experiences with hands on art activities, the Catchment Connections program continues to inspire the next generation to value and protect East Gippsland’s natural environment.
As part of its commitment to protecting and restoring Victoria’s waterways and catchments, this project is funded by the Victorian Government.
