Digging In: A Day of Dirt, Discovery and Delight at O’Connor’s Park
Our little adventurers took their learning far beyond the classroom with a special excursion to O’Connor’s Park in Mooloolaba - and what a day it was!
From the moment they hopped onto the bus (backpacks zipped and hats on tight), the excitement was high. With their high-vis vests on, gloves at the ready, and water bottles and fruit packed for energy, our little learners were all set for a day of planting, playing and learning with purpose. We were thrilled to be joined by local council member Elliot, who shared some fascinating facts about the native tubestock plants we helped put into the ground. Not only were all the plants local to our region - they were also edible!
Here’s what the kids learned (and loved!):
- Warigal Greens (Native Spinach): You can eat the leaves, but they’re best cooked first.
- Blue Tongue Plant: Once its fruit grows, the fruit turns your tongue bright blue - how cool is that?
- The ‘Toothpaste’ Berry Plant: This mystery native has berries that taste minty fresh.
- Sea-Lice Soothing Leaves: Another special plant with natural sting-soothing powers (perfect for beach-loving kids!).
- Native Mint & Native Violet: Beautiful, useful, and now rooted in the park thanks to our helping hands.
With gloves on and shovels in hand, the children eagerly got stuck into the soil - some planting with methodical focus, others enthusiastically chatting about the plants’ “superpowers” as they dug. The sense of purpose and pride was palpable.
And of course, no excursion is complete without a game or two - after their hard work, the kids played tiggie with the teachers, giggling amongst the trees they’d just helped nurture.
It was more than just a fun outing. This excursion helped our children build hands-on connections with the natural world, learn about sustainability, and contribute meaningfully to their community. They’ll be able to return to O’Connor’s Park with their families, point to the plants they helped grow, and say, “I did that.”
A big thank you to Councilman Elliot for his wisdom and to all our educators who made this special day possible. These moments plant more than trees - they plant lifelong curiosity, confidence, and care for our planet.
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Mooloolaba
0422 584 470
mooloolaba@evolutionearlylearning.com.au
197 Brisbane Road, Mooloolaba, QLD 4557
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