STUDENTS LEAD THE WAY
BELGIAN Gardens State School had the honour of being the only school invited to be part of the Sustainability and Science Showcase in Brisbane last month.
The expo aimed to highlight the latest research, actions and ideas to help Queenslanders do their bit to protect the planet.
A group of four students from Belgian Gardens travelled to Brisbane to share information on their school’s programs, including Clownfish Breeding, Endangered Bird Breeding and the Rowes Bay Junior Rangers, a student group that removes marine debris from Rowes Bay.
Belgian Gardens environmental captain Steve Wessel said they were given the opportunity to present their innovative program to Queensland’s chief scientist, Professor Hugh Possingham.
“My fellow environmental captains and I represented Belgian Gardens State School at the Sustainability and Science Showcase at the Queensland Museum,” he said.
“We showcased three remarkable and unique environmental programs that my school operates.
“It was an awesome experience to discuss at length with the public my school’s dedication to environmental awareness. I believe that having this chance to represent my school to a wider community has enhanced my drive to pursue more ways to spread my passion to promote environmental science and awareness.”
Student Isla Hunter said the event had inspired her to nurture and care for the environment in new and different ways.
“I was able to experience a variety of some of Queensland’s leading organisations that highlight the latest scientific research and ideas for a sustainable and greener future for our planet,” she said.
“I felt very proud to represent my school and share the knowledge that I have learnt and educate others about the incredible programs that we run at Belgian Gardens State School.”
Environmental captain Marley Cottone said it was an “unbelievable” opportunity for students at the school.
“My favourite display at the expo was definitely the animals exhibit, where I got to pat the softest animal ever, a Sugar Glider,” she said.
“I also got to pat a Burmese python, a Black Headed python, as well as a Blue Tongue lizard, and I saw and a Legless lizard and a tree snake.”
Jeremy von Bertouch said the expo was “amazing” and featured numerous interesting exhibits.
“My favourite one was the Brampton Island toothbrushes because it inspired me that a young person was running such a successful environmental campaign,” he said.
“I also got to meet some amazing people who gave wonderful insights as to our programs that we run at school.”