Community
18 April, 2024
Fluttering into action
'Gazza's Gossip' "Living in what, I believe, is the best part of the planet, it’s always most important that we look after our delicate environment."
More so, it is important that we encourage future generations to understand the importance of protecting our surroundings. If this can be done in a fun way, well that’s even better.
Port Douglas Primary School’s (PDPS) Butterfly Project is taking flight and excitement is buzzing as the students, teachers and the Douglas Grass + Roots Network have come together for this extraordinary initiative.
Spearheaded by a collaborative effort between PDPS, teacher Miss Edmonds and the Douglas Grass + Roots Network, this project aims to not only beautify the community, but also nurture a love for nature and conservation among youth.
The project is also jointly supported by the community sustainable spaces grant, awarded to the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre for facilitating and growing the community garden project.
This grant has been provided by the Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science.
Under the guidance of Miss Edmonds, alongside Tanya Morris from the Douglas Grass + Roots project officer, year 5 and 6 students are rolling up their sleeves to plant butterfly-attracting plants in the neighbourhood centre garden. This garden, envisioned to take the shape of a butterfly, will serve as a sanctuary for these delicate creatures, while providing a picturesque spot for the community to enjoy.
Throughout May and June, students will dedicate themselves to the project, carefully planting seedlings they have been raised and cared for at school. The process promises to be an educational journey, offering hands-on learning experiences in gardening and environmental stewardship.
“We are thrilled to see our students taking an active role in creating a positive impact on our environment,” Ms Morris said.
“This project not only teaches them about the importance of biodiversity, but also instils a sense of responsibility towards preserving our natural world.”
The Butterfly Project goes beyond mere planting, as it symbolises a collective effort to foster a deeper connection with nature.
As Ms Morris explains: “Our goal is to create a space where butterflies can thrive, but more importantly, to cultivate a sense of environmental consciousness within our community.”
“We believe that every individual has a role to play in preserving our planet,” she said.
“Through initiatives like the Butterfly Project, we hope to inspire our community to take action and make a difference.”
As the project progresses, plans are underway to install a plaque within the garden, bearing the names of the participating students. This will serve as a permanent reminder of their dedication and commitment to creating a more sustainable future.
Together, they are hoping to create a haven for butterflies and a beacon of hope for our planet.
For more information and updates on the Butterfly Project, please visit the facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/douglasgrassandroots
I’m keen to see how well this new project is taking off, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.
Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au
