St Rita’s College students have continued their strong commitment to the environment, teaming up with Kalinga Park Bushcare for another hands-on bush regeneration working bee.

Nagle House initiated the partnership in 2017, undertaking regular maintenance and tree planting sessions since.

Students work under the guidance of Kalinga Park Bushcare volunteer Bernadette Crook and her husband Len, who have been involved with the group for 10 years.

“We like to provide the opportunity for young people to become involved with the natural environment, and volunteering with a Bushcare group like ours is an easy way to protect our lovely green spaces for the future,” she said.

“We enjoy the enthusiasm that the St Rita’s students bring to the working bees, where they learn about removing weed species and planting and protecting local native plant species.

“Their input at the working bees is valued as it really extends the continuing efforts of our regular volunteers.”

Also on hand to offer students valuable bush regeneration advice was local organisation Bushtekniq.

Year 12 students and Nagle House Captains, Jorja and Katelyn, said the program was a wonderful opportunity to take action in caring for the natural environment.

“Girls from a range of year levels are able to help maintain Kalinga Park, planting more trees, learning new skills about gardening and maintaining current plants,” Katelyn said.

“It is an eye-opening opportunity, one that is so important to continue in future years in order to keep this environment healthy and share awareness about the need for bush regeneration in our local area.”

Jorja said: “It’s such a great experience to be a part of, and it gives students a greater appreciation for Australian native plants and our natural environment."

Students will return to Kalinga Park throughout the year to continue their Bushcare efforts.