In a partnership between Campaspe Cohuna Local Learning and Employment Network (CCLLEN), Major roads Projects Victoria (MRPV), Echuca East Primary School, Campaspe Shire, local environment groups and Bunnings Warehouse, students were learning how they can help birds and possums at the site of the new Echuca-Moama bridge.
After guest speakers came to the school, students were tasked with constructing nesting boxes and concept designs for the new Echuca-Moama bridge.
‘‘The kids came up with the idea that it would be a helpful thing to do to put some nest boxes in and their response to the program has been fantastic, they have been so excited and really enjoyed this project,’’ CCLLEN executive officer Anne Trickey said.
The idea came about after CCLLEN had sourced funding for education week to provide students with hands-on learning.
‘‘We thought this was a great thing to do for the children to showcase some of the careers involved in the bridge construction — but we also have a project worker working with us at the moment to provide hands-on learning,’’ Ms Trickey said.
‘‘So we were able to provide Jamie Harding’s expertise, and this was a good side project for him to help the students make their ideas come to life.
‘‘He did all the work in preparing the materials for the students, Bunnings then came to the party by donating materials and we had several parents and grandparents helping the students.’’
Ms Trickey said a local environment group will assist with installing the boxes in the correct location in the coming months.
‘‘We’re thrilled to see the children at Echuca East Primary School have been inspired by the Echuca-Moama bridge project team to protect our local wildlife and environment,’’ MRPV head of communications and stakeholder engagement Dave Kristy said.
‘‘It’s also fantastic to see local businesses providing their support and encouragement for this initiative.’’