VCE VM Project 

Wyndham Central College VCE VM Students Lead Conservation Efforts with “Pick Up for Platypus” Project

The VCE VM Year 12 class of 2025 at Wyndham Central College has demonstrated exceptional initiative and environmental leadership through their community-based project, Pick Up for Platypus, aimed at raising awareness and advocating for the conservation of local waterways and endangered species, with a focus on the platypus.

As part of their studies, students engaged in excursions to the Werribee River and Werribee Zoo, and viewed documentaries to deepen their understanding of how human activity impacts waterways and wildlife. Their learning culminated in a whole-school and community initiative, including presentations at Year Level Assemblies, a presentation to School Leadership to gain approval for a community event, and the organisation of a “Bring a Can Week” to fundraise for Zoos Victoria. Through this initiative, the students aimed to raise $500 via the Victorian Government’s Container Deposit Scheme, successfully raising $320 and recycling over 3,000 bottles and cans—keeping waste out of local waterways.

The project integrated both Personal Development Skills and Literacy, with students producing infographics, t-shirts, and websites to educate Wyndham’s culturally diverse community about supporting waterways and protecting endangered species. They also formed partnerships with local businesses, cleaning companies, and sporting clubs to maximise fundraising opportunities.

Extending their impact to younger learners, the students designed a social story colouring book told from the perspective of a platypus, highlighting the effects of urbanisation, littering, and pollution. To further engage the community, they created a “Mural of Support,” where donors signed cut-out platypuses or puggles, similar to the McDonald’s McHappy Day initiative, to visually represent their contributions.

On 14 November, Year 12 students, Majid, Jamie, Indiana, and Elyssa represented Wyndham Central College at the annual Zoos Victoria Fighting Extinction Showcase, presenting their Pick Up for Platypus project to schools from across Victoria. The showcase provided an excellent opportunity for networking with external agencies, including Members of Parliament, Wyndham City Council, Sustainability Victoria, and various non-government organisations. Students were also acknowledged with a personalised thank you from the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme for promoting recycling and conservation.

The VCE VM class of 2025 deserves high praise for their dedication, creativity, and positive impact on both the Wyndham community and local environment. Their efforts are a shining example of how students can combine learning with meaningful community action.

Ashlin Brown  - VCE VM Teacher