Young leaders immerse in the magic of nature
Students representing 15 primary schools across the region congregated on Naracoorte Caves National Park recently to explore the outdoors and connect with nature at the South East Natural Resources Management Board’s Earthkeepers Camp.
NRM Education Coordinator Vanessa Freebairn said all of the activities across the two day camp were held outdoors, regardless of the weather.
“The aim of the camp is to immerse students in nature,” Vanessa said.
“Sometimes that involves a bit of rain and mud, but by connecting the students in this way it encourages them care about their environment and in turn protect it.”
A particular favourite amongst students is the ‘magic spot’ activity.
“This activity involves students finding a quiet place in the bush away from others to just sit and be silent in nature for 20 minutes,” Vanessa said.
“This allows them time to really slow down, clear their mind and observe nature. Giving young people permission to be outdoors with no set activity is becoming more important as their lives are often busy with scheduled activities after school and ‘downtime’ has become screen time.”
Jayda from Naracoorte Primary School said she enjoyed taking some time out.
“Finding the magic spots, that was fun and relaxing,” Jayda said.
“I think the best part of the camp was connecting with the outdoors and the wildlife. Even when it rained, that didn’t stop us. It was also fun to meet new people who think the way you do, everyone fits in somewhere.”
The Earthkeepers Camp is the third meeting for the students in the Young Environmental Leaders Program. Following the camp, students will continue to work on their sustainability projects which they will share with each other at the end of the year Expo.
For more information about the Young Environmental Leaders Program, or other NRM school programs, contact the NRM Education team on 87351177.
