Project Overview:

The Pay it Forward – MCC Community Impact for Local Biodiversity project engages all participating Year Nine students at Mount Clear College in meaningful, hands-on environmental stewardship. Through the Year Nine Program, students rotate through a sustainability-focused unit that connects them with local organisations and real-world biodiversity challenges. Working with the Leigh Catchment Group’s Urban Ripple project, Ballarat Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation Inc., and the MCC Legacy Garden initiative, students contribute directly to habitat restoration both on school grounds and in the surrounding community.

Beginning with a biodiversity score of zero in the targeted school garden beds which were stripped during major building works, the project has resulted in the establishment of 354 indigenous plants on-site and 356 off-site, totalling 654 new native species. Students also undertook extensive weeding, rubbish collection, and site maintenance, helping protect Woowookarung Regional Park, which borders the school. This structured approach cultivates environmental awareness, community connection, and tangible biodiversity improvements across the region.

Educational Outcomes  

The project provided students with rich, place-based learning experiences that build ecological knowledge, practical skills, and personal growth. Students learnt to assess biodiversity through surveys, species identification activities, and sound-recording technologies introduced during excursions with partner organisations. Classroom sessions deepened understanding of native ecosystems, invasive species management, and the ecological value of indigenous vegetation.

Hands-on activities—including ground preparation, planting, weeding, rubbish removal, and nesting-box construction—equipped students with skills in land management and sustainable gardening. Collaboration with conservation groups offered mentorship and real-world insight into habitat restoration, wildlife rehabilitation, and the importance of creating habitat corridors.

Beyond technical knowledge, students experienced teamwork, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Many reported the satisfaction of “switching off and helping,” particularly when working alongside elderly residents at Specimen Vale Home. Seeing their Legacy Garden plants thriving has strengthened student pride, belonging, and understanding of how individual actions contribute to long-term environmental improvement.

Environmental Outcomes

The project has restored degraded areas by establishing 654 indigenous plants, reducing weeds, improving habitat quality, and protecting local ecosystems connected to the Woowookarung Regional Park.

Conclusion

The Pay it Forward project has significantly restored and enhanced local biodiversity while providing meaningful learning experiences for all Year Nine students. With over 654 native plants established, major improvements to the Mount Clear College grounds, and strengthened partnerships with community conservation groups, the program delivers lasting ecological and social impact. Students develop practical skills, environmental awareness, and a strong sense of stewardship as they contribute to real habitat restoration. Their work creates a visible legacy for the school and broader community, transforming degraded spaces into growing ecosystems and inspiring ongoing commitment to caring for local landscapes.