Our Year 11 Biology class went on camp to Stradbroke Island during the first week of Term 4.

Students explored the island and ran scientific investigations across some of the island’s beautiful and varied habitats. Our main focus was to investigate how land management practices have changed on the island from before white settlement to today and decide if the current management practices are adequate. It’s a difficult question, and we were able to get a detailed insight into the ecological history of the island from members of the Aboriginal community, Mark and Brian from Straddie Adventures. We look forward to continuing in partnership with these gentlemen to develop educational programs that give our students the opportunity to have a voice in contemporary issues and apply their findings to real-world problems.

Thanks to the wonderful staff at Tillers Cafe we were well fed during the long days and were able to sit back to a lovely meal each night which was very welcome after hours of fieldwork collecting data. After dinner our work didn’t stop; students spent each night analysing the data and uploading their combined data and photos to share and use. Biology camp is all about working long hours, eating wonderful food and waking up to a beautiful scene each morning on the beach.

Overall, our students were given a unique opportunity to apply biology skills in real life situations. We look forward to the experience next year.

Kerrianne Draper