SCIENCE FACULTY

Exploring Ecosystem Dynamics at Penrith Lakes

Our Year 11 Biology students recently participated in an exciting field excursion to Penrith Lakes, a restored freshwater ecosystem nestled at the foot of the Blue Mountains. This hands-on experience formed a key part of the Ecosystem Dynamics module in the Stage 6 Biology syllabus, giving students the opportunity to explore firsthand the processes that shape and sustain natural environments.

Penrith Lakes offered a dynamic and diverse environment for ecological study. Students observed a wide range of plant and animal life from aquatic macroinvertebrates and bird species to regenerating native vegetation around the wetlands. This rich biodiversity served as a living case study, demonstrating how ecosystems can recover and adapt over time.

The excursion also emphasised the importance of sustainability and ecological management. Students learned about the site’s transformation from a former quarry to a thriving rehabilitated wetland and how ongoing conservation efforts are supported through scientific research and community involvement.