Mornington Peninsula Ambassadors – Final workshop together

The sun was shining and, as always, our Mornington Peninsula Ambassadors arrived smiling at Jacks Beach, ready for their final coastal workshop on November 10. Despite the army of mosquitos who swarmed in full force before the sun worked its way through the trees, the day was full of activities, a BBQ lunch and the presentation of awards for our well-deserving Ambassadors and volunteers.

Ambassadors began with a talk about local species of frog, including a pair-matching game involving students finding a partner based on the sound of different shakers.

Next, students had the pleasure of meeting and listening to Lionel Lauch as he shared his knowledge on indigenous heritage and culture. Students were amazed by his tools and the many, many resources he identified along the short walk from the coast to the bush.

Following a BBQ lunch, Ambassadors enthusiastically rolled up their sleeves and pitched in, giving the Green Army a hand weeding and pruning the space around Jacks Beach, improving the clearance of walking tracks and over-hanging trees surrounding the car park. The last session gave students an idea of the animals found in Warringine Park and how to identify different skulls of animals that are found in the park, including those of native and invasive species.

Well done to recipients of the following awards:

School of the Year – Mt Martha Primary School

Mt Martha Primary School student Ambassadors with Mandy Robertson

Highly commended school of the Year – Hastings Primary School

Hastings Primary School students including joint Ambassador of the Year Emily Smart (far left), and Coordinator of the Year Jannine Reid (far right)

 Ambassador of the Year – Alexandra Matthews, Tyabb Railway Station Primary School

Ambassador of the Year – Emily Smart, Hastings Primary School

Highly commended Ambassador of the Year – Ashely Unger, Crib Point

Highly commended Ambassador of the Year – Alannah Woods, Crib Point

Crib Point Primary School’s Ashley Unger and Alannah Woods

Co-ordinator of the Year – Jannine Reid, Hastings Primary School

Parent Helper of the Year – Lisa Elvey, Moorooduc Primary School

Outstanding Contribution – Sandi Emile, Rye Primary School

Fundraiser – Dakota Nicholls, Somerville Primary School

And to all our Ambassadors for your wonderful efforts and contribution to the success of another workshop program. Every one of you help to support the health of environments and reverse the negative impacts of litter pollution in our oceans and parklands.

Many thanks to Lionel, the Green Army crew, Jerard, Matt and Hannah from the Shire and our parents, grandparents and volunteers for making the workshops a great day for everyone.