Ecosure is a proud sponsor of the BROLGA Junior Ranger Program in partnership with CQ University Australia. The BROLGA program places a spotlight on career pathways and study opportunities for indigenous students to empower themselves and others through belief, respect, openness, learning, growing and achieving. Malcolm Mann the BROLGA program coordinator says “The program is about increasing the confidence and knowledge of indigenous primary and high school students in the Capricorn Coast area. It is designed to increase connections to culture, community and provide opportunities for students to increase their education.”
In the first week of March, Ecosure ran one of three courses offered to the indigenous students on the BROGLA program at Nurim (Mr Archer). Our Senior Botanist Geoffrey Sinclair and Senior Environmental Scientist Kelly Smith delivered ‘Botanical Skills for Junior Rangers’. Geoff taught the students introductory skills in Botany, and the importance of plants and trees on our planet. The kids learned the differences between boy and girl Zamias, the scientific name for Grass Trees (Xanthorrhea latifolia), how to identify the native raspberry (Rubus probus) found at Nurim and the She Oak that is endemic to Australia.
We were lucky enough to have Uncle Bill Mann, a Darumbal elder, delivering his knowledge on the traditional use of plants and how to survive in the bush. The students (and adults) really engaged with Uncle Bill and learned a lot about using nature to safely eat, drink and find directions!
The third class run by the Fitzroy Basin Association (FBA) looked at problematic weeds and feral animals and how to manage them. The kids (and mentors) had a fabulous day. It was a great day of learning, sharing, building respect and connection to country all round. If you would like more information about this fantastic program, please contact Malcolm Mann BROLGA Program Coordinator at CQ University: BROLGA@cqu.edu.au
Check out our video from the day below!
https://gopro.com/v/ZNQKZXkW7Ewmw
