SOUTHERN Cross College is on the crest of a wave after receiving the Young Legends Award in the 2006 Australian Clean Beach Challenge.
The national award recognises the students’ commitment to promoting and caring for Queens Beach North under Redcliffe City Council’s adopt-a-beach program.
Three Year 10 marine science classes, working in partnership with Redcliffe City Council, were honoured.
Southern Cross marine studies teacher Peter Slaughter said winning the national prize, after a state accolade last year, reinforced Queens Beach North as a great outdoor learning venue for junior students.
Mr Slaughter said, with Queens Beach North located 1km from the college, it was regularly used for student field trips.
The adopt-a-beach program, sponsored by Redcliffe City Council, was integrated with Southern Cross’s junior marine studies program, he said.
Students enjoyed a variety of tasks associated with coastal geography, including conducting experiments and learning about coastal engineering works, sand replenishment programs and water quality.
The beach served as a home base for the college’s marine science studies where students conduct experiments and undertake monitoring of local foreshore plants, animals and reported findings to the council.
Mr Slaughter said, as members of a Reef Guardian school, Southern Cross students took their role of caring for the beach seriously, picking up litter as they walked the shoreline and collecting rubbish in the bay while snorkelling.
Principal Robyn Killoran said: “It’s beneficial for our students to take on a community project, as it represents not only growth in themselves but also community recognition of their work.”
