Our VCE Unit 3 Environmental Science students stepped beyond the classroom for an unforgettable field adventure at Werribee Open Range Zoo and Mt Rothwell Conservation Centre.

At Werribee, students became field scientists for the day, tackling real biodiversity challenges through hands-on data collection, ecosystem sampling, and conservation case study analysis, all capped off with an exciting safari tour.

At Mt Rothwell, the focus shifted to conservation and management of Australia’s high-risk native species. Students set and checked wildlife traps, collected real field data, and were lucky enough to trap Eastern Quolls, Bettongs, and Long-nosed Potoroos. They even assisted with health checks and microchipping before safely releasing them back into the wild.

A highlight was the spotlighting tour, where students observed endangered species such as the Eastern Barred Bandicoot and the Southern Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby.

An engaging, fun and memorable hands-on experience that provided invaluable insights into conservation and the protection of Australia’s unique biodiversity.