Bringing city kids back to the land
A wonderful group of students visited a local farm to learn, plant trees and create a collaborative masterpiece!
Capacity building - LEP_035_LLC
The issue
Disconnection from nature and lack of awareness about sustainable land management are growing challenges for urban youth. Degraded rural landscapes, particularly along waterways like the Cudgegong River, urgently need restoration to support biodiversity and resilience in a changing climate. There is also a need to foster a deeper, emotional connection to Country and ecology among the next generation to inspire lasting stewardship and care.
The solution
Watershed Landcare hosted a two-day immersive program for Year 9 students from St Leonard’s College, combining hands-on landscape regeneration with artistic reflection. Guided by ecologists, artists, and local Indigenous knowledge holders, students planted native vegetation on rehydration contour banks and created a collaborative mural to explore the interconnectedness of ecosystems. The blend of science, culture, and art provided a holistic experience that engaged both minds and hearts, connecting city kids with rural landscapes in a meaningful and lasting way.
The impact
Thirty-six students directly contributed to landscape restoration by planting native species designed to improve water retention and soil health. Their collaborative mural became a lasting symbol of their connection to Country and commitment to healing the land. The project strengthened urban-rural ties and demonstrated how creativity can deepen ecological understanding. The experience left students more environmentally conscious, empowered, and inspired—echoing long after they returned to Melbourne.
Learnings
This event proved that hands-on action combined with cultural stories and creative expression fosters deep, personal engagement. Students not only learned practical regeneration skills but also built emotional connections to the land. Integrating art into ecological work supports diverse learning styles and reveals the ecosystem as a living, interconnected whole. Strong preparation—like prior contouring and planning—ensures high-quality outcomes. Most of all, creating space for reflection and story makes learning memorable and transformational.
Key facts
- 36 Year 9 students from St Leonard’s College joined the two-day program.
- Native vegetation was planted on contour banks to support landscape rehydration.
- Welcome to Country and Dreamtime storytelling set a cultural foundation.
- Students created a collaborative mural using lino print art.
- The event combined ecology, culture, and creativity to foster deep land connection.