By BRIDGET COOK
LYNDHURST Primary School students made their mark on the local environment this month by taking part in a tree planting day.
As part of the wetlands construction at Villawood Properties’ Marriott Waters community, the school’s Grade 5 and 6 were invited to help plant native trees and shrubs in one of the wetlands.
Teacher Andrew Klimsch said his students were very excited that they were able to take part in creating a living environment and share in the responsibility of looking after a part of their community and school.
“Working with Villawood to create a sustainable environment, provides our students with the opportunity to create a life-long link with their environment and something they can share with their families and friends every time they pass the wetlands,” he said.
Villawood Properties’ executive director Tony Johnson said that planting days were an important part of community interaction and engagement.
“We really enjoy getting involved with our local schools and involving them in some of the great environmental and sustainable work we do as part of our communities,” he said.
“Our children will be the next generation to manage and enjoy our plants, trees and ecosystems such as our wetlands, so it is important that they understand these habitats and why they are so important for the future.”
The students will also be involved in the future maintenance of the wetlands with Australian Ecosystems, who are responsible for the maintenance and planting of the wetlands bodies.
The school will also be participating in educational sessions and integrating tree planting and environmental conservation into some of the educational programs for its students.
Australian Ecosystems construction project manager Carlie Young said they encouraged local schools and community groups to get involved in planting days.
“These days are important for educating young people – the next generation of custodians and protectors of the natural systems and plants and animals that we share the planet with,” she said.
“We hope these planting days help young people understand the value of wetlands and inspire individuals to take responsibility for them, and hand them on to future generations.”
