WOODEND STUDENTS LEARN BUSHFIRE READINESS

Grade 5/6 students at St Ambrose Primary School in Woodend recently undertook an important project, addressing a critical issue: the increasing risk of bushfires in Australia. This initiative, developed by the CFA Bushfire Education Unit in collaboration with Dr Briony Towers from Natural Hazards Research Australia, was created to equip students with life-saving knowledge while enhancing teamwork, problem-solving and communication skills.
The Woodend CFA has been very proud to be involved with this important project, with students demonstrating their work at the Brigade’s recent Open Day. 2nd Lieutenant Sue Hobbs stated that: “This was a great program and Woodend CFA members were very impressed with the knowledge and enthusiasm of the St Ambrose students and their supporting teachers”. As a culmination of their work in the ‘Bushfire Education’ unit, the grade 5/6 students hosted an Expo to showcase their projects focused on bushfire readiness.
The Expo was attended by students from all grade levels, as well as parents, grandparents and community members. Special guests included representatives from Woodend CFA in 4th Lieutenant Ben Richardson and Kristy Butler. Another notable attendee was Tom Lowe, also a volunteer with the Woodend CFA and a documentary maker, who has recorded the students’ learning throughout the semester.
Tom added that “The Schools in Fire Country program is very much student-led, so I was keen for their voices to also be reflected in the video. Their enthusiasm was really inspiring to see. The Schools in Fire Country video tries to show that local knowledge and networks can be really effective in creating discussion and learning”. The event was a resounding success, and the talented students earned high praise from everyone who attended. Their hard work and creativity shone through in every project, making the Expo a truly memorable occasion.

Photos courtesy of Tom Lowe