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12OES - Goldfields Mountain Biking Journey
On Tuesday, the 16th of May, the Year 12 Outdoor and Environmental Studies class left the rain and gloom of Melbourne behind to explore the environmental impacts of gold mining during the Gold Rush of the 1850s in the sunny climes of Castlemaine and its surrounds.
Using mountain bikes as our mode of transport and guided by Cycling Unlimited, we gathered in Fryerstown to commence a 15km ride through rugged and technical bush tracks to Castlemaine. This section of the Goldfields track, known as the "Dry Diggings," is part of a 97km stretch from Ballarat to Castlemaine.
The selection of this track was based on its abundance of gold mining remnants, such as stone cottages, railways, bridges, disused mine shafts, and numerous mullock heaps and tailing piles. These remnants serve as valuable primary data sources for Unit 3 OES and provide students with personal reflective experiences that can be quoted in exams and SACs.
While the track presented some challenging sections, leading to a few thrills and spills along the way, the group exercised caution and respect for the conditions to ensure the accomplishment of our goals and objectives. The downhill sections brought both excitement and trepidation, while the uphill climbs were met with less enthusiasm. However, as the saying goes, what goes up must come down.
Cycling through such historically significant environments on a sunny autumn day was a thoroughly enjoyable experience for everyone involved. We extend our gratitude to Ms Harrison for accompanying us and to Cycling Unlimited for their expert assistance and provision of awesome mountain bikes.
Well done team!
Mr Dietzsch
Outdoor and Environmental Studies Teacher
Year 9 Youth Development
Check out these photos from 9YD's incursion through the Victorian Youth Corps Program. It was an exciting opportunity for students to meet and interact with the police, as well as ask them questions. The Dandenong Police showcased all their day-to-day equipment to the students as well. Take a look at the snapshots!
Mr Anderson
Youth Development Teacher