A group of Denmark Senior High School students took a long walk from Greens Pool back to the school as part of Duke of Edinburgh International awards camp.

The camp took place over the weekend of December 3-5 at the end of which silver awards went to Jordan Proctor, Josh Goncalves and Jed Loton while bronze achievers were Harley Duggan and Will Anderson.

Along the way of their walk, the group collected rubbish littering the trails.

They met Brad Kneebone and the Denmark Bird Group on the Ocean Beach sand flats to learn about protecting the habitat of East Asia/Australasia Flyway birds.

Bird group volunteers helped the students spot the birds feeding on the sand flat and spoke about the importance of protecting their habitat.

Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions ranger Shaun McHenry talked about the Indigenous significance of the area, invasive species and protection of vulnerable species.

Shaun also explained his role as a ranger and offered tips about following his career.

Moving on to an inlet reserve, Nadine Lapthorne and Diane Harwood from South Coast Bush Services helped the group manage invasive weeds in the area.

Lightning weed was the target species over the morning in what had felt like a gym work out. A ute load of the weed was the result.

Teacher Jodie Pollard said the students had felt a sense of achievement in seeing the weeds gone.

“How fortunate we are to have such valuable volunteer groups in our community,” Jodie said.

She was grateful to Brad and the bird crew for the work they do and for sharing their time, Shaun for his inspiring chat and Diane and Nadine who care for the bush and carry out weed management exercises regularly.

Jodie appreciated the extra workout while weeding when everyone’s legs and feet were already feeling it.

“We have learnt so much, have a newfound respect and appreciation of caring for our environment,” she said.

The camp was a joint venture with Denmark Fire and Rescue Service and the State Emergency Service cadets.

James Anderson, Darin Hockley, Rob Jones and Cameron Williams were praised for their support of the young adults and for making the camp such a huge success. 

See all the pictures in the issue.

This article appeared in the Denmark Bulletin, 26 January 2023.