Saving the Great Barred Frog

In 2017 Bishop Druitt College Coffs Harbour Student Environment Group was successful in winning an Environment Grant through the IEU and Teachers Mutual Bank.

The grant application detailed the need to protect the habitat of the endangered Giant Barred Frog that exists on college grounds and the desire to recognise and promote Indigenous connection to the land management practices.

The result was a collaborative day of action between the environment group and the Goori Group under the guidance and supervision of our external partners, New Earth Regeneration and the Coffs Harbour Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Students spent the day working together weeding, removing rubbish and planting over 100 bush tucker plants along Newports Creek. Students also painted tree stakes that were used to identify the bush tucker species.

Due to the amazing efforts of these students we now have an established trail of bush tucker plants along the creek line. The planting and regeneration works will also help protect and nurture the habitat of the Giant Barred Frog.

The students were exemplary in their dedication to the task and willingness to learn. It was particularly gratifying to watch our secondary students joyfully mentoring the primary students involved on the day.

Special thanks to Goori Group Coordinator Kristy Hart, Coffs Harbour Local Aboriginal Land Council and New Earth Regeneration. Finally, well done to all students involved on the day – you were amazing!

Brett Bennett and Rosey Lang
Student Environment Group Coordinators