Ten Year 9 and 10 students from Keira High School took to the Minnamurra Estuary by canoe on Earth Day, participating in a hands-on environmental program run by the Illawarra Environmental Education Centre.
The excursion, held on April 22, saw students paddle through the estuary early in the morning, immersing themselves in their local ecosystem as part of a curriculum-linked outdoor classroom experience offered by the centre.
Located within Killalea Regional Park in Shell Cove, the Illawarra Environmental Education Centre is one of 24 environmental and zoo education centres operating across New South Wales under the NSW Department of Education. The centre provides hands-on learning experiences for students from Kindergarten to Year 12, with expert teachers leading programs across science and technology, geography, visual arts, and PDHPE along the South Coast.
Centre principal Nikki Bodel said the location offered students rare access to natural environments.
“We have some of the most beautiful coastal spots and forest environments that we can take public school students out to,” Bodel said.
“Experiential learning, such as canoeing in a local waterway, helps students build a deep, personal connection to their environment and inspires them to become active guardians of our planet.
“Earth Day 2026 reminds us that environmental progress is driven by everyday actions taken by communities and educators alike.
“Through programs like this canoeing excursion, we are proud to support schools in equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to contribute to a sustainable future.”
Keira High School principal Scott Frazier said the activity extended student learning well beyond the traditional classroom setting.
“Students can engage with their local environment and see firsthand the impact of sustainable practices,” Frazier said.
“Participating in Earth Day at the Illawarra Environmental Education Centre gives our students valuable real-world insights into environmental science and conservation.”
Earth Day is observed annually on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. The theme for Earth Day 2026, “Our Power, Our Planet”, aims to highlight that lasting environmental progress depends on the daily efforts of communities, educators, workers, and families.
The Illawarra Environmental Education Centre has encouraged other schools and community groups to explore its available resources and take action throughout the year to support environmental progress.