Yr 11 Environmental Science Camp

In the brief break in the rainy weather on the 19th-21st October, the 23 students from the Year 11 Environmental Science class were lucky enough to enjoy 3 days sunshine on the Environmental Science Camp in Queenscliff. The purpose of this camp was to give students experience of field work in the areas of ecological sampling, land management, marine biology and pollution monitoring and management. Students undertook a session at Melbourne Water Treatment Plant - where they learnt about how sewage is treated and also investigated strategies that Melbourne Water are developing to cope with water shortages in the face of climate change. 

In Queenscliff, students went on an educational 'Marine Biology' boat cruise of Port Phillip Bay to undertake sampling of the seaweed beds. On the boat cruise we worked with a Marine Biologist who taught us about the environmental and geological history of the Bay as well as the types of organisms and interactions that exist. We were lucky enough to see Australian fur seals up close as they thermoregulated in the water and pods of dolphins playing alongside our boat. Students also participated in a shore snorkel run by Queenscliff Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre. Overall it was an amazing experience and gave students first hand experience of the types of work that Environmental Scientists carry out!