Students from Dalby State High School (DSHS) are developing valuable skills beyond the classroom while working with Council to manage Phytophthora multivora in the Bunya Mountains.
Western Downs Regional Council and The Natural Resources Department Team (NRMT) have partnered with the DSHS Trade Centre to construct five feral pig traps as part of a biosecurity pest management project. Senior students have put their skills into practice, with guidance from trade teachers, to independently design and fabricate functional traps.
Once complete, these traps will be deployed in the Bunya Mountains to reduce the presence and ecological effects of feral pigs. The foraging behaviour of feral pigs disrupts soil structure and microbial diversity, resulting in the spread of pathogens such as Phytophthora multivora, leading to Bunya Dieback.
Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Planning and Environment Cr Kylie Bourne said the collaboration is an excellent opportunity for trade students to gain real-world experience.
"This is a fantastic initiative where students can step beyond the classroom and develop hands-on skills that will set them up for future careers, all while supporting a project that truly benefits the region's ecosystem. Students are developing highly transferrable skills in fabrication, planning, and critical problem solving, setting them up for success when they join the workforce." Cr Bourne said.
"Students are developing highly transferrable skills in fabrication, planning, and critical problem solving, setting them up for success when they join the workforce."
Cr Bourne said the project combines the best of both worlds, giving students hands-on, practical experience while making a tangible difference in the community.
"Protecting the Bunya Mountains ecosystem is vital, and this project plays an important role by reducing the impact feral pigs impose on our iconic Bunya Pine trees," she said.
"By decreasing the spread of Phytophthora multivora and soil disturbance, this project helps safeguard the health of the Bunya Mountains ecosystem for future generations."
