HPGE Bird Project

Niangala Students Soar with Native Bird Study in Small Schools Project

Niangala students recently took flight in their learning through participation in the Small Schools High Potential and Gifted Education project, focusing on the native birds and their habitat found right in our own playground.

Over the course of the project, students observed and studied the various native bird species, gathering valuable information about their behaviours, feeding patterns, and environmental needs. They worked collaboratively to collate their findings and thoughtfully developed a "Where to Next" plan outlining how they can help protect and support these native birds and their habitats in the school grounds.

The culmination of their hard work was presented to an expert panel of, Dr Stephen Debus - School of Environmental and Rural Science (UNE) and book author and Bronwyn Ellis - For more than 40 years, wildlife photographer, ecologist and environmental specialist Bronwyn Ellis has built a meaningful career with Forestry Corporation.

Bronwyn began her journey in 1984 as the state’s sole female Forest Ranger, at a time when forestry was overwhelmingly male‑dominated.

Bronwyn has since worked as a field ecologist and now coordinates ecological monitoring programs within Forestry Corporation’s Environment and Sustainability team.

Since 1998, she has walked more than 3,500 kilometres while undertaking ecological monitoring in state forests, a distance equivalent to travelling from Cape York to Melbourne, helping to protect native flora and fauna across NSW.  We very much appreciated these two experts being a part of this project.

Students confidently shared their research and ideas. Yarrowitch Public School joined the event via ZOOM, making it a wonderful opportunity for cross-school collaboration and learning.

The project not only deepened students’ understanding of local biodiversity but also fostered critical thinking, research skills, and a passion for environmental stewardship.

Thank you to Mrs Makeham for leading the project, her knowledge of our local birds is amazing!

Congratulations to all the Niangala students involved for their enthusiasm and dedication!

Lindsay & Evie-Lee 

Joseph & Holly

Matilda, Miley & Ashton

Aubree, Harry & Georgia