From the Classroom

Year 5/6

This week we have been learning about the Southern Purple Spotted Gudgen, now known as the Zombie Fish. The Southern Purple Spotted Gudgeon is a small, colorful freshwater fish native to southeastern Australia. It was once common in rivers and wetlands but faced extinction in many areas due to habitat loss, water pollution, river regulation (like dams), and competition from invasive species such as carp and mosquito fish. 

It was decalred extinct in 1998. Fortunately, it wasn’t completely extinct, as two species of the fish were found in Kerang wetlands in 2019. Thanks to conservation efforts—like habitat restoration, captive breeding, and reintroduction programs—the species is slowly making a comeback in some areas. 

Mrs Watt, Miss Maskell and Miss Knight took the 5/6 students to the wetlands today where we worked with a group of environmental organisations brought together by River Connect, as part of the Zombie Fish Education Day. We participated in hands-on environmental activities based on wildlife, habitat and threats to biodiversity.

The highlight of the day was having the priviledge to release some Zombie Fish into the Shepparton Lake today, Thursday 1st May, supporting the growth of the species.

Foundation Colour Mixing Pumpkins

This week in Foundation Art, our young artists explored the magic of colour mixing by creating vibrant colour-mixing pumpkins! Using primary colours—red, yellow, and blue—they experimented to discover how to make secondary colours like green, orange, and purple. Once their colourful pumpkins were painted, students added creative details using paint pens and oil pastels, bringing each pumpkin to life with texture and personality. It was a fun, hands-on experience that introduced key art concepts while encouraging creativity and fine motor skills.