Published on Friday, 5 September 2025 at 4:48:10 PM

The Shire of Dardanup teamed up with Eaton Community College (ECC) students and rangers from Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation last week to help restore and protect a valuable wetland on the College grounds.

Year 7 and 8 students rolled up their sleeves alongside Shire staff to plant a variety of native trees and learn about the importance of wetlands.

The activity also formed part of ECC’s NAIDOC Week celebrations, recognising and honouring the deep connection Aboriginal people have with land and water.

Shire President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said the event was a great way to connect young people with their local environment.

“Wetlands play a vital role in supporting wildlife, cleaning our water and reducing the impact of floods,” Cr Gardiner said.

“Planting days like this give students the chance to learn, contribute and take pride in protecting these special places.”

Cr Gardner said wetlands are important in keeping our environment healthy. They:

• Provide habitat for threatened plants and animals, including fish, frogs, tortoises, marron and nearly 20% of Australia’s bird species.
• Filter pollutants, helping oxygenate and clean our water.
• Reduce the severity of floods and provide refuge for wildlife during drought.

The Eaton Community College wetland is a ‘Conservation’ category wetland of the Swan Coastal Plain, making rehabilitation efforts even more important for the future.

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