Last Wednesday, our Year 12 Geography students had the opportunity to visit the Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Area in the Perth Hills as part of their studies on the impacts of land cover change on the natural environment.

Kaarakin is a specialist wildlife centre dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick and injured native black cockatoos. The visit provided students with valuable insight into the real-world consequences of habitat loss, including the decline in food sources for black cockatoos, which have seen their population halve since the 1970s. Now classified as endangered, these birds face ongoing challenges as their natural environments continue to be altered.

During the excursion, students learnt about Kaarakin’s extensive revegetation efforts, which include restoring over 150 acres of former orchards and farmland to native bushland. The experience gave students a deeper understanding of both the ecological and human-driven factors behind land cover change, and the importance of conservation initiatives like those at Kaarakin.

It was an eye-opening and inspiring day for all involved.

Mr Sule Alagic
Humanities Teacher