Conargo Primary School students are helping to save the region’s rare Ruby Saltbush, and beautify their township at the same time, by participating in a unique program.
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After receiving a $16,000 grant from the Petaurus Education Group, the school set about collaborating with local landcare group, YACTAC (Yanco Creek and Tributaries Advisory Council Inc.), to learn about their local environment.
Under the guidance of principal/teacher Christine Smith and teacher Kylie Charlton, the 11 students from Conargo Primary School embarked on the unique educational journey.
It has been supported by environmental experts Bronwyn Hicks and Andrea Mitchell from YACTAC.
The ‘Saving The Rare Ruby Saltbush Program’ created by the school featured the following program highlights:
• Theory classes - where students delved into classroom lessons focused on plant biology and the specific care required to nurture the Ruby Saltbush.
• Field excursions - where the young environmentalists explored local sites to differentiate various species of saltbush and locate mature Ruby Saltbush for seed extraction.
• Seed preparation - where students extracted, treated, and dried seeds from mature Ruby Saltbush bushes.
• Planting and care - where seeds were sown in propagation pots and provided with regular watering and care.
• First signs of growth - with the community celebrating as the first new Ruby Saltbush plants began to emerge.
The project came to a close last week, with the students actively participating in the planting process around the Community Hall and Conargo village entrances.
They were assisted by Edward River Council acting manager of transport & facilities Fred Heinze.
“This project not only serves as an educational cornerstone, but also fosters community involvement and environmental stewardship,” Mr Heinze said.
“The ‘Saving the Rare Ruby Saltbush’ initiative is a remarkable example of how small communities can make significant contributions to local biodiversity.
“It also aligns perfectly with council’s aspiration for our villages, and shows the spirit of Conargo, where the legend truly does live on.”
The Conargo School community has helped to bring back the rare Ruby Saltbush.
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