Year 7 HASS students got their hands dirty and their taste buds firing during an excursion to a local farm. 

The geography excursion with HASS teachers Mr Sam de Vries and Mr John Tilinger was designed to give students a hands-on learning experience focussing on liveability and water use. 

“Students had the opportunity to observe and investigate sustainable farming practices, water management techniques and the factors that contribute to making rural areas a good place to live,” Mr de Vries said. 

The farm relies upon rainwater (60%) and ground water (40%) and has a water treatment plant to ensure 100% of water is recycled. 

Students compared water quality by conducting a taste test of rain and ground water. They discussed the benefits of living on a farm – space, privacy and healthy lifestyle – and concluded that sustainability is achievable.

However, it requires multiple and ongoing small actions, not just one big decision. 

The excursion produced a lot of food for thought and later discussion in the classroom.