Tree Planting Day

St Joseph's Students Shine at Mt Arthur Coal Ceremonial Tree Planting Day

On Friday, April 4th, students from various HSIE subjects participated in the Mt. Arthur Coal Ceremonial Tree Planting Day. This event took place at a former waste rock dump, which is being transformed into a Box Gum Grassy Woodland as part of the mine site's rehabilitation process. Over the next five years, 50,000 trees will be planted in this area.

The tree species planted, such as White Box and Blakely’s Red Gum, are crucial nectar sources for threatened species like the Regent Honeyeater and Swift Parrot.

Our students represented St Joseph's with pride, contributing to the restoration and preservation of these vital woodlands. Their efforts are fostering biodiversity and helping to maintain the ecological balance of the area for future generations.

At St Joseph's, we believe in the bigger picture. Mary MacKillop’s philosophy of "never see a need without doing something about it" was truly embodied on this day. Our students planted hundreds of trees, contributing to a vision that will benefit future generations, even though they won't see the finished product today.

Additionally, students enjoyed learning about the archaeological significance of the site and examined First Nations artefacts.

This day provided our students with a valuable learning experience outside the classroom. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mt Arthur for hosting us so warmly. We look forward to contributing to this cause every year.

Wendy Thomas

HSIE Leader of Learning