ONE hundred and thirty children were immersed in the environment they were learning about during a day-long visit to the Gunbower Island forest.
Students from four schools were exposed to an environment and culture learning event at Treetops Scout Camp near Gannawarra.
Activities focused on flora, turtles, native fish, Barapa Barapa indigenous culture, macro-invertebrates and water quality during rotating sessions.
North Central Catchment Management Authority project manager, Adrian Martins said that the forest campsite was a ideal setting for the various activities for students from Lake Charm, Murrabit, Pyramid Hill and Eppalock.
Barapa Barapa representatives spoke about their indigenous culture in this area, including their connection to the Gunbower Island forest area, and guided the students while they painted boomerangs.
Turtles Australia representatives provided an insight into the lives of three freshwater turtles found in this region, the Murray River turtle, short-necked Emydura turtle and the eastern long-necked turtle.
Students were also able to handle some turtles and learn about efforts to protect their nests from predators.
Another segment involved identification of native fish.
Magnifying glasses helped provide a close-up look at macro-invertebrates in trays of water.
Catchment staff also escorted groups in exploration along the Gunbower Creek and adjacent forest to identify trees and shrubs.
