Middle School

The Year 3/4 students recently visited Healesville Sanctuary as part of their Geography inquiry unit exploring the diversity of Australia’s places and environments and how these connect to the stories, knowledge, and custodianship of Aboriginal peoples.

Throughout the day, students learned about the unique animals and ecosystems found across Australia, from mountain forests to grasslands and wetlands. They discovered how each environment supports different species and how these landscapes have been cared for by Aboriginal communities for thousands of years. Many students were surprised to learn how closely animal behaviour, seasonal changes, and land management practices are connected to Aboriginal stories and understandings of Country.

A highlight of the excursion was hearing about the role of the Wurundjeri people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the sanctuary stands. Students learned how Wurundjeri knowledge guides respectful relationships with the land, animals, and waterways, and how these cultural perspectives continue to shape conservation efforts today.

Back at school, students will use what they learned to deepen their understanding of how people interact with environments, and how Aboriginal perspectives help us appreciate the deep connections between land, culture, and identity.

This excursion not only supported our Geography curriculum but also encouraged students to think about their own responsibilities in caring for places and environments that are important to them.