Deloraine High Landcare Group

Project Profile

Issues

Made up of students from Deloraine District High, the Deloraine High Landcare group works to enhance biodiversity within the Meander Valley and surrounding districts through the protection, enhancement and restoration of the natural environment, while providing learning outcomes for students and developing environmental partnerships within the community. Between 2008 and 2009, the students have grown and planted 9000 plants for local Rotary clubs, councils, primary producers and residents.

Project Detail

Deloraine High’s Landcare Group has been nominated for a National Landcare Award for its contribution to the ongoing protection of the local environment.

Students from Deloraine District High work to enhance biodiversity within the Meander Valley and surrounding districts through the protection, enhancement and restoration of the natural environment. Between 2008 and 2009, the students have grown and planted 9000 plants for local Rotary clubs, councils, primary producers and residents.

Deloraine High School’s educational philosophy relates to ‘Community Learning’ which recognises the school community as part of a broader community. The students have worked with local government, service organisations, community groups and local farmers to gain an increased knowledge and understanding of environmental issues including remnant restoration and riparian vegetation.

The activities and programs provide Tasmanian native plants to local landcare groups, community groups and landholders to assist them in environmental restoration projects. As well as providing students with practical hands-on experience, the project has helped students to develop skills in problem solving, responsibility and working as a member of a team.

Student’s sense of achievement is demonstrated by their enthusiasm to work on landcare projects outside of school hours. The students have travelled across the state to learn from other ‘Care’ groups as well as visiting commercial and forestry nurseries to learn about commercial and business operations. In addition, all members of the group have undertaken a landcare activity on their own property. Students have been responsible in consultation with their parents for site and species selection, site preparation and plant management.

The group is currently working on the ‘Swap a Weed for a Native Plant’ program, inviting residents from Meander Valley to bring in an environmental weed from their garden or farm to the school and receive a free native plant. The program aims to build awareness in the wider community of the impact of environmental weeds and provide advice to landowners on weed management. The group was also successful in obtaining a Community Water Grant to install water tanks on all school buildings allowing for irrigation of the school oval and garden beds.

The Deloraine High Landcare Group project has significantly strengthened the bond between the school and the local community. Through the project, the students have set a strong example in northern Tasmania of young landcarers working to improve their environment.

The Deloraine High Landcare Group project is one of 88 finalists in the National Landcare Awards to be announced in Canberra on 24 June 2010.  Commencing in 1991, the Awards celebrate the achievements of individuals and groups that make a valuable contribution to the land and coast where they live and work.

Photography

Deloraine High Landcare Group