Funding school’s green future

The Birali Steiner School at Beachmere has been given a major boost by Federal MP for Longman Terry Young towards a huge community planting program.

Mr Young secured $16,500 funding from the Federal Government’s Communities Environment Program for planting around the school’s bioretention basin.

“This funding will allow for the planting of natives to complete the bioretention basin at Birali which will greatly enrich the students, community and most of all the environment,” Mr Young said.

Proud moment

“I couldn’t be prouder of the students and wider Birali school community for their hard work protecting our beautiful piece of Moreton Bay.

“I would like to acknowledge Principal Chris Jack, parents and students who are all doing an outstanding job in making our collective backyard a priority.”

After a short delay due to COVID, the school is now looking to run planting workshops for the students and parents, combining education about planting and the benefits of our school's Bioretention Basin around reducing sediment in waterways.

Future goal

Mr Jack says the ultimate goal is to have ongoing education for future students through maintaining the plants/basin. More than 800 native plants and trees have already been planted.

“For generations to come, our staff, parents and students will learn together and build the skills and knowledge they need to positively contribute to our local environment,” Mr Jack says.

The emphasis on the environment is a central part of Steiner’s philosophy at its 26-hectare Moreton Bay campus.

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Header image caption: Federal MP for Longman Terry Young, right, discusses the Birali Steiner School planting program with principal Chris Jack.