17 July 2024
A new nature walk at Broome Senior High School enables students to learn about the rich botanical diversity of the Kimberley region.
Visitors and students can follow the Yawuru Bush Walking Trail to learn about native tree species, such as the gubinge (Kakadu plum), boab tree, sandpaper fig, elephant ear wattle, and river gum.
The educational trail aims to inspire greater connection and respect for the unique landscape.
Small plaques have been placed along the way to share cultural insights about the trees.
Broome Senior High School Principal Mathew Burt said the trail aligned with the school’s Ngapartji Ngaparrtji two-way science program, a type of learning that connects Aboriginal knowledge systems with Western science and the school curriculum.
”Our Yawuru Bush Walking Trail aligns with our culturally responsive learning programs at Broome Senior High School, as it teaches students about the Yawuru language, local plant species, and the Yawuru seasons,“ he said.
Learning about native trees at Broome Senior High School's Yawuru Bush Walking Trail
”The initiative supports a huge range of our curriculum outcomes across all year levels and the trail has already been incorporated into outdoor classroom learning.
"The trail was created in partnership with the local Aboriginal community, Mabu Yawuru Ngan-ga Language Centre, Yawuru Rangers, the broader school community, and local science and land management organisations.
"We extend our gratitude to our Cultural Advisor, Joe Edgar, Aboriginal Education Coordinator, Clare Stack, Yawuru Rangers Jas Cook and Cary Van de Vente for their guidance, and Nyamba Buru Yawuru for their language contributions and cultural information."
The trail was established as part of the school’s 2024 NAIDOC Week celebrations.