Learning Beyond The Classroom

Skeleton Creek Water Sample Testing

 On Thursday 19 August 2025, students from the Year 9 Outdoor Education elective participated in an engaging excursion focused on conservation and sustainability practices.

 Partnering with the Werribee River Association, students spent two hours learning about the importance of healthy waterways and how local communities can contribute to environmental stewardship. As part of the experience, students conducted water sample testing at Skeleton Creek near Talliver Terrace Park in Truganina.

 Working in small groups, they measured pH levels, assessed water clarity, and recorded the temperature of the water. Along the way, students also observed a range of local flora and fauna, helping them appreciate the biodiversity supported by the creek environment.

This excursion not only provided students with practical fieldwork skills but also deepened their understanding of how science and sustainability intersect to protect natural environments. It was a valuable opportunity for students to connect with their local community, contribute meaningful data to ongoing conservation efforts, and reflect on their role in supporting a sustainable future.

Werribee Gorge State Park 

Werribee Gorge State Park is renowned for its 500-million-year-old geological history which includes the 200-metre-deep gorge, one of the deepest in Victoria along with its conservation of native flora and fauna. With many unique plant species, birds, native mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, students had the opportunity to observe different animals in their habitat and learn about life in the wilderness.   

In Week 7, Term 3 our Year 9 students completed the Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk located in Werribee Gorge State Park approximately 8km west of Bacchus Marsh and a 40-minute drive from Truganina P-9 College. The excursion involved students who were enrolled in the Outdoor Education elective for 2025. In total 32 students successfully completed the challenging 8km circuit walk. 

The focus of the excursion was teamwork and resilience with students having to pack their own bags, carry their own water, wear appropriate footwear, and support each other in completing the 8km hike which involved steep incline and decline areas and a 50m section of cable handrail. Students demonstrated responsibility by following the ‘Leave no Trace’ philosophy and ensured that any rubbish that was taken into the state park was taken out. 

 Students traversed the Eastern and Western lookout points and explored the Werribee river which included lunch along the flowing river and working together to complete the cable handrail section of the trail which highlighted the enthusiasm and excitement of the students. 

 A special thanks to Charlie Kuhn, Alicia Pettinella and Chris Sangalang for attending the excursion and supporting the students, without them the excursions would not have been the success that it was.

Stefan Bilanovic

Secondary Teacher

Year 9 English & Outdoor Education