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Members of the Limestone Coast Youth Environment Council (LCYEC) experienced an unforgettable afternoon and evening immersed in the natural wonders of the region during their third forum of the year.
The event took participants on an exploration of Mount Burr Swamp, guided by Nature Glenelg Trust Senior Ecologist Bryan Haywood, where students had the opportunity to discover some of the Limestone Coast’s most remarkable wildlife and ecosystems firsthand.
From surveying the endangered dainty bird orchid to witnessing tiger snakes mating in the wild, the forum provided a rare glimpse into the biodiversity that makes the region so unique. Participants also observed microbats resting in a bat box and listened for some of the swamp’s most elusive residents, including the booming calls of the Australasian bittern and the distinctive growls of the growling grass frog.
As daylight faded, the sounds of the wetland came alive with a chorus of native frog species, including striped marsh frogs, spotted marsh frogs, brown tree frogs and common froglets, creating a memorable soundtrack to the evening’s adventures.
LCYEC member Audrey Heenan said the evening felt like nature put on a special performance just for the group.
"I’ve never seen so much wildlife in one night. Every time we stopped there was something new to discover. It felt like the swamp was coming alive around us and it’s definitely an experience I’ll never forget."
The forum concluded around a campfire, where members reflected on the incredible nature encounters and shared stories from the day. Learning about local nocturnal sounds, enjoying live guitar music and toasting marshmallows provided the perfect end to an inspiring event.
Damien Bickley, Limestone Coast Landscape Board Landscape Education Coordinator, said, “Providing young people with opportunities to connect directly with nature creates meaningful and memorable learning experiences. Seeing wildlife firsthand, hearing the sounds of the swamp after dark and exploring these unique environments helps build a deeper appreciation and curiosity for the natural world. These experiences inspire the next generation to care for and protect our environment, ensuring others can experience the same sense of wonder in years to come."
For more information about the Limestone Coast Landscape Board’s education programs, visit our website.
