By Tricia Curtis | Regional Coordinator/Manager
Welcome Friends in Wombat Conservation,
We are pleased to share that our Southern Hairy-nosed Wombats at Brookfield recently hosted the Young Environmental Leaders (YEL) forums. Twenty five students from three primary schools located within 100km of the Murray Mallee, were welcomed, to learn about these wonderful wombats, the importance of the Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat species, and, conservation programs available to help preserve the habitat of this endangered species.
The YEL Forum agenda focused on highlighting and learning about local issues, local awesomeness and local action, concerning the Southern hairy-nosed Wombat.
Students were engaged in a range of environmental issues connected to the Southern Hairy-nosed wombat and their habitat, including the importance of ‘watching where you walk’, to ensure protection from destruction of important lichens and mosses, and, ‘watching where you sit’ because of what might live underneath, highlighting the advserse affects these simple actions might have on their environment/habitat.
During the course of the forum the young leaders enjoyed the time to soak up the atmosphere as they discovered the ‘local awesomeness’ while exploring the three different habitat zones within Brookfield and learning how to conduct wombat warren surveys. The students, engaged in the exploration were amazed when they discovered they had seen three different habitats in the same area, and continued to discuss and explore such aspects as, the Lichen growing on the ground, the wombat’s habitat, the wombat’s defence mechanisms and of course wombat poo!
After the in depth discovery of the habitat within Brookfield, the students discussed biodiversity and ‘local action’. The group brainstormed many fantastic ideas on ways to increase habitat and diversity, including volunteering and careers in conservation, which appealed to members of the forum. This, 'day of discovery,' increased their conservation understanding and the simple ways everyone can make a difference. We were also pleased to be able to showcase a local Green Army team, as an example of individuals doing their best to make a difference – by combating weeds at Brookfield – which looked to be an endless task!
The students’ were fascinated with the hands on learning, and filled with questions. Cindy Kakoschke,Coordinator of the Program commented, “This kind of thought provoking information and knowledge is just what we love!” The forum wrapped up with an opportunity for both young leaders and teachers to provide feedback, some of which we share with you now.
Funds that we receive through the generosity of Global Giving donors enable us to spend time with groups, such as these inquisitive young environmental leaders. It is essential that what we learn through our research on the Wombats at Brookfield, is able to be shared with everyone; especially those interested in widening their conservation knowledge and experience. In turn, the enthusiasm shared by others, and especially these young environmental leaders, inspires us, their questions encourage us to seek more answers, and their positive outlook on the future, keeps us motivated. We look forward to your valuable and important continued support in aiding us to deliver programs that inspire a new generation in caring and taking an active part in the conservation of the endangered Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat.
Best wishes for a happy and safe Christmas and we look forward to providing our regular updates to you in 2016.
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