There are a number of organisations in the north of Melbourne that offer programs based on the local environments of the Merri, Moonee Ponds and Darebin catchments in the Victorian Volcanic Plains Bioregion. 

 

Merri Creek Management Committee runs a variety of environmental programs focussing on the local natural areas of Northern Melbourne, from waterbugs to volcanic history and planning indigenous gardens. All of our programs are hands-on and use an engaging approach to learning. Merri Creek and the surrounding areas provide an extensive oudoor learning classroom. We provide activities as excursions or incursions and link to curriculum priorities in recognition of our place on Wurundjeri Country.

Check out our brochure (pdf) on environmental education activities.

Darebin Creek Management Committee (DCMC) works with schools and the community to raise awareness and educate about local waterway health and revegetation in schools and associated reserves as well as the Darebin Parklands in Alphington. Hands on learning activities are tailored to each school and class levels’ needs.

 Check out our website for a wide range of educational materials.

The Moonee Ponds Creek Coordination Committee (No longer operting - 2020)

In February 2017, 60 stakeholders came together to talk about collaboration in the Moonee Ponds Creek catchment. That process resulted in a commitment by representatives of 18 organisations and 10 supporting partners to achieve an agreed-upon vision for the catchment: To transform the Moonee Ponds Creek into an iconic waterway for Melbourne that enhances its natural capital and provides high social and environmental benefits to local and wider communities. The collaboration group includes representatives from local and state government, community groups, not-for-profits, businesses and research organisations — all with a strong interest in improving the Moonee Ponds Creek.

A La Trobe University
conservation and
education centre

The La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary at La Trobe University, within the Darebin Creek Catchment, offers a wide range of education experiences for schools, professionals and the wider community. They cover a range of fields from habitat restoration, through to archaeology to emphasise practical experience and fun. Their 28 hectare site includes extensive wetlands, remnant woodland with indoor and outdoor classrooms and experienced, professional staff.
Waterwatch is a river health education and monitoring program which aims to increase school communities understanding, participation and ownership of local river health issues. Through monitoring, Waterwatch groups can help to identify pollution sources, determine the major issues facing their local river, creek or wetland, and establish what needs to be done at a local level to help improve its health.

CERES (the Centre for Education and Research in Environmental Strategies, pronounced ‘series’) is an internationally recognised model of a sustainable society. Located on 4.5 hectares on the banks of the Merri Creek in East Brunswick, CERES runs on renewable energy, is a 55 tonne carbon sink, conserves and recycles its water and waste, grows organic food, and teaches diverse audiences about more just and environmentally friendly ways of living.

CERES aims to foster awareness and action on environmental and social issues affecting urban areas. A wide range of educational services are available. Check out our CERES website for more info.

Melbourne Water offers education resources for teachers and students such as fact sheets, excursion opportunities, multimedia inter-actives, and planning documents. Visit the Water Discovery Centre (Werribee Treatment Plant) to learn about Melbourne's water cycle from catchment to coast.