Environment Education Program

The Blackburn Lake Sanctuary (BLS) Environment Education Program is a free visitor service offered by the BLS Advisory Committee and the Friends of the Lake co-ordinated by the City of Whitehorse. It provides environmental and sustainability education programs for local schools and community groups.

Programs are run by the Education Program Officer, employed by the City of Whitehorse, together with a team of enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers.

Environment Education Sessions
Most visits consist of a guided walk and a presentation in the Visitor Centre. These may be combined with hands-on activities or environmental games. Extra information and worksheets can be provided for most programs on request.

Visits take 1 - 3 hours to complete, depending on the activities chosen. Large parties will be divided into smaller groups to protect the Sanctuary's sensitive environment and offer a quality experience.

We can tailor programs for particular curriculum requirements and assist schools with resource material for assignments. We can design programs for primary, secondary, tertiary and adult groups.

Environment Topics include:

  • Wetland Wander - learn about Blackburn Lake and its water

  • Web of Life - discover the plants and animals of BLS

  • Sustainable Sanctuary - look at the ways people interact with the Sanctuary and the effects we have on our environment

  • Sanctuary History - explore the indigenous and European history of the area

  • Field work - take part in water sampling, plant surveys, weeding or planting

    • Blackburn Lake Sanctuary offers the possibility of real-life teaching, learning and understanding. The Sanctuary provides opportunities for practical hands-on experiences of the bush by: weeding; planting; learning about indigenous plants; water sampling; observing birds, animals and insects and learning about the culture of indigenous Australians.There are opportunities for creative expression through painting, photography, writing, storytelling and other media.

    The program aims to develop among visitors:

  • understanding of, and sympathy for, the value of bushland in suburban areas, specifically Blackburn Lake Sanctuary
  • concern to maintain such areas as sustainable environments
  • opportunities for various age groups to experience and learn of the pleasures and challenges of a bushland area and to appreciate its importance to the community

    • Philosophy
    The BLS Advisory Committee believes that having a reasonably intact bushland ecosystem in a suburban area can encourage understanding and appreciation of the bush in those members of the community who choose to live in suburban Melbourne. Positive attitudes can best be developed by using local volunteers who show, by example, their love of the area.

    Bookings
    Bookings are essential and at least 3 - 4 weeks before the event. Maximum of 30 students.

    For bookings or further information please email Jacquie, the Education Program Co-ordinator

    Would you like to beome a volunteer for the Education Program?

    Volunteers are vital to the running of our program.
    New volunteers are always welcome and will receive an induction including a tour of the Sanctuary and Visitor Centre. They are invited to observe education sessions and volunteer training is offered on a regular basis.

    For further information please email Jacquie, the Education Program Co-ordinator  

    Last updated August 9, 2011