Landcare & Fisheries; connecting young people to inspire stewardship along the Darling-Baaka
Western Landcare and NSW Fisheries delivered interactive workshops at a local school to build students’ understanding of river health, native fish, and habitat restoration. Through outdoor ecology‑themed games and hands‑on activities, students designed and modelled fish passageways and “fish hotels,” exploring how these structures support fish movement along the Darling–Baaka.
Capacity building - LEP23-021-27
The issue
Remote communities like Pooncarie often have limited access to place‑based programs and expert educators. While local children already know the Darling‑Baaka and its fish, chances to deepen that knowledge through structured, hands‑on learning are rare. Western Landcare and NSW Fisheries saw an opportunity to strengthen local understanding, connect young people more closely with the river, and inspire stewardship for native fish and river health.
The solution
Western Landcare and NSW Fisheries ran interactive school workshops on river health, native fish, and habitat restoration. Students played outdoor ecology‑themed games, designed fish passageways and “fish hotels,” and worked together to build models showing how their ideas could support fish movement along the Darling–Baaka. Hands‑on activities and local examples helped strengthen understanding of the river system. One workshop also included support from Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder engagement officers, allowing agencies to share resources and expertise and deliver engaging, locally grounded sessions.
The impact
The workshops sparked curiosity and enthusiasm among school students, reinforcing their connection to the Darling–Baaka and its native fish. Teachers reported high engagement and lasting interest in local environmental issues, requesting our return to deliver more educational opportunities. The collaboration between Western Landcare and NSW Fisheries strengthened community relationships, opening avenues for future project collaboration, and highlighted the value of combining local knowledge with scientific learning to care for the Darling-Baaka.
Learnings
Environmental education works best in remote communities when it’s practical, local, and engaging. The mix of outdoor games and real‑life examples helped students grasp complex ideas easily. Collaboration between Western Landcare and NSW Fisheries showed how combining technical expertise with strong community ties strengthens learning. Expanding similar programs to more Darling–Baaka schools could further build environmental awareness and long‑term stewardship across the region.
Key facts
- Focus: Native fish ecology, river connectivity, and habitat restoration
- Outcome: Students gained clearer understanding of human impacts on river health
- Engagement: Strong student interest and participation
- Goal: Build long‑term environmental stewardship in rural youth