Sustainability Team Conference  

On Monday 7 September, five members of our Sustainability team participated in the Student Conference held at Wellington Secondary College. 

The main theme of the conference was “Biodiversity”. Students listened to talks from Monash Council representatives, researchers from Mt Rothwell Biodiversity and Interpretation Centre, and the Monash University Sustainability Team.  Each presentation provided different perspectives for approaching biodiversity in our local and broader environment.  

After this students mixed in random teams with students from other schools to debate on important questions about Biodiversity. The very last activity of the day was a competition organised by the Monash Student team following their presentation, about importance of water in biodiversity. I'm pleased to announce that Wantirna College won the competition by designing the best water filter. 

Here is a reflection on the day by our Sustainability Captain, Lauryn Goh:

The Biodiversity Conference was a great opportunity to meet and collaborate with students from other schools who shared an interest in sustainability and combatting climate change. My favourite part of the day was winning the DIY-water-filter competition as a school group; however, learning about the Odonata Foundations’ endangered species inter-habitat breeding program came at a close second.

The day inspired us to take initiatives to improve Biodiversity at our school. We will be discussing ideas and options, and then liaising with local council and committees in Term 4.

Sustainability Photo Competition

Meanwhile, we encourage all Wantirna College photography students and photo enthusiasts to take part in the State Goverenment's 'Backyard Biodiversity: discover your local icons' photo competition.

The spring school holidays are a great time to look around, notice and capture photos to help Wantirna College win another competition! 

Details can be found here:

https://www.environment.vic.gov.au/sustainability/sustainability-through-your-own-lens

Ozlem Alpcan

Sustainability Team