Students discuss the future of the coast

EARLIER this month, about 160 students from five schools gathered in Torquay to learn, workshop ideas and celebrate coastal conservation at the annual Coast Guardians Forum hosted by the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee (GORCC).

The Year 9 students from Northern Bay College, Surf Coast Secondary College, Geelong Lutheran College, Lorne Aireys Inlet P-12 College, and Sacred Heart College had a day of guest presenters, activities and prizes as part of the GORCC’s award-winning Environmental Education Program.

The day featured special presentations from Corrina Eccles from the Wadawurrung Aboriginal Corporation, Meg Cullen from Birdlife Australia, Deidre Murphy from Corangamite Catchment Management Authority, Alan Beckhurst from Queenscliff Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre, Lachlan McKenzie from Eco Logic, Luke Hynes from Jan Juc Coast Action and Sam Marwood from Edge Pledge.

GORCC chair Ken Northwood said educating the next generation about the precious coastal environment was a major priority for the organisation.

“The Coast Guardians program is aimed at increasing awareness around environmental issues and encouraging social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

“Ultimately, we hope that participants will be able to walk along a well-cared for coastline and enjoy the benefits of their hard work.

“The program is also aimed at fostering partnerships between the schools, GORCC, local community organisations and local environmental volunteer groups.

“We’re incredibly proud of the achievements of our education program, which has been celebrated with awards by the Victorian Coastal Council and was a finalist in the recent VicParks Awards in the Community Category.

“These students are making a real contribution to our coastal landscape and support our conservation team, and the tireless efforts of local volunteers.”

GORCC education activity leader Hilary Bouma said the forum would encourage students to reflect on their achievements throughout the year and share their experiences with other schools.

“Each school protects a different environment along the coast and has a different experience to share with the other schools.

This forum celebrates the students’ personal development and their hands-on contribution to the enhancement of the coast.”