Regenerate & Create!

Published 11th January 2025. Written by Maddison O’Brien

In early November 2024, Watershed Landcare delivered an unforgettable two-day experience that combined hands-on environmental restoration with artistic expression. Hosting 36 Year 9 students and staff from St Leonard’s College in Melbourne. It brought to life the power of collaboration and creativity in landscape regeneration while connecting city kids with the country.

Held at Franks Breakaway Farm on the banks of the Cudgegong River, the program aimed to immerse students in the principles of holistic land management through hands-on activities. The event kicked off with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Peter Swain, who shared the “Tiddalik the Frog” Dreamtime story. This timeless tale conveyed the shared responsibility of caring for land, water, and community, setting the tone for the days ahead.

Under the guidance of Watershed Landcare and Dr Laura Fisher from Mulloon Institute, students learned about the four interrelated ecosystem processes: water, mineral, energy cycles, and community dynamics. The focus was on improving landscape rehydration, which is vital for restoring soil health and ecosystem resilience. Before the students arrived, meticulous preparation had been undertaken, including contour earthworks, seeding, and mulching to create an optimal environment for planting native vegetation.

Armed with tools and tree guards provided by the Watershed Landcare Nursery, the students rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Together, they planted native species along newly constructed contour banks, a strategy designed to slow water runoff and improve soil moisture retention. Mulching and watering followed to ensure the young plants had the best chance of survival. It was a powerful experience, reinforcing individuals’ critical role in restoring degraded landscapes.

Students worked together planting native plants below the contour bank, adding mulch and tree guards. Photo by Gus Armstrong

Afternoons were devoted to creativity, with Laura Fisher and Maddi O’Brien leading an interactive art workshop. Students were invited to reflect on their connection to the landscape and channel their impressions into lino prints. These designs were then pressed onto a large collaborative mural, creating a stunning visual representation of their shared journey. This artistic process engaged students on an emotional level, deepening their understanding of the interconnectedness of ecosystems.

Students carved small stamps representing elements in the landscape and put them together to form a mural, representing the interconnectedness in the ecosystem.

The two-day event was not only educational but also deeply inspiring. Cheryl Nielsen, one of the key organisers, noted the unique synergy created when art and ecology come together. “I’ve witnessed the transformative power of integrating art into environmental projects,” she said. “It enhances learning and leaves a lasting impact on participants.”

Watershed Landcare’s success with “Regenerate & Create” highlights its ability to deliver tailored, meaningful experiences that connect people to the land. Whether it’s students from Melbourne or local community groups, they offer bespoke programs that educate, inspire, and create lasting memories. If you’re looking for a unique adventure that combines learning with hands-on action, Watershed Landcare is ready to bring your vision to life.