Wildlife motion cameras, GPS orienteering and a rare sighting of the endangered Southern Bell Frog were just some of the exciting adventures of this year’s Limestone Coast Youth Environment Council (LCYEC) camp out.


An initiative of the Limestone Coast Landscape Board, the LCYEC fosters leadership to care for and improve our local landscape.


Sixteen students camped out at Mount Burr Swamp where they were able to explore their local landscape with like-minded peers.


First Nations Elder Uncle Doug Nicholls discussed the First Nations Seasonal Calendar and the stage of the life cycle of native plants and animals during the “cultural ceremonial” time.


Senior ecologist from Nature Glenelg Trust Bryan Haywood visited the swamp and discussed the ongoing restoration of the site plus the opportunities to improve biodiversity in the region.


Limestone Coast Landscape Board Landscape Education Coordinator Vanessa Freebairn said it was very rewarding to have local elders and ecologists visit the camp to share their knowledge.


“It really helps to engage the students with their local landscape,” she said.


“Students were able to explore the swamp under the stars during a night walk.


They were lucky enough to see an endangered Southern Bell Frog.


They also loved the orienteering session using GPS navigation and setting up motion cameras to film night life in the swamp.”


Audrey, a first year Limestone Coast Youth Environment Council member said, “the camp was a great experience.


“It was really fun finding frogs on our night walk.


“I hope to learn more about the local landscape at our upcoming events.”