Woolworths and Landcare Australia are on the lookout for primary schools and early learning centres across Millicent with ideas to help connect young generations with nature and inspire them to play an active role in ensuring the safe future of their environment.

The latest round of the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program is now open, offering primary schools and early learning centres the chance to share in $1m to support the development of hands-on environmental learning projects.

Woolworths Millicent store manager Diana Bradbury said grants of up to $1000 were on offer for projects focussed on sustainable food production, improving waste management practices, enhancing native habitats and deepening First Nations perspectives.

This could include creating a sustainable native garden like Norton Summit Primary School in South Australia has done, allowing children to build their knowledge of flora native to the area.

“Getting children involved with hands-on activities in and around nature is an incredible way to help them explore sustainability in action,” she said.

“Over the years, we have seen some great ideas from schools and early learning centres across South Australia that were brought to life through our Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program, encouraging kids to explore, appreciate and care for the environment around them.

“No idea is too small and we cannot wait to see what’s ahead.”

Through its Junior Landcare program, Landcare Australia has also worked closely with First Nations educator and Wiradjuri man Adam Shipp to develop environmental learning activities for educators and children to learn more about how they can have a connection to Country.

The activities range from exploring First Nations weather to creating an Indigenous plant-use garden and exploring a First Nations peoples’ languages map.

Landcare Australia First Nations educator Adam Shipp is looking forward to the program.

“As a proud Wiradjuri man, I believe it is extremely important that environmental based organisations recognise and work with First Nations groups,” he said.

“By teaching younger generations about traditional ways of caring for Country, we can deepen knowledge of and respect for First Nations culture and practices.

“I look forward to seeing how Millicent students and teachers use the new Junior Landcare resources.”

Landcare Australia chief executive Dr Shane Norrish said Junior Landcare had always recognised the vital role children play in taking care of the natural environment.

“Thanks to the 2023 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program, we look forward to seeing even more children have the opportunity to take on this role,” he said.

“Moreover, as we continue to grow the number of First Nations perspective resources on the Junior Landcare Learning Centre, we are thrilled to be able to support Millicent children and educators in building their knowledge of Traditional Land Management and Cultural Heritage when it comes to caring for our land and water.”

Applications for the 2023 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants close March 17.

Visit juniorlandcare.org.au to find out more about the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants Program and to apply.