What is it about butterflies? Is it their vibrant beauty, their gentle nature, or the wonder of their metamorphosis from caterpillar to a delicate, winged marvel? Or maybe it's their role in pollinating our native plants? Butterflies captivate young and old alike—there’s a sense of magic when one lands on you!

 

Our 'Building Bee, Bug and Butterfly Biodiversity' Garden project celebrates this fascination, encouraging budding entomologists in Wedderburn to explore the many local butterfly species. This initiative raises awareness of the vital role biodiversity plays in our backyards. By focusing on caterpillars, butterflies, and native plants, it teaches students how they can positively impact sustainability and ecosystem services in Wedderburn.

 

Throughout the project, each family in our kinder community has received caterpillars, pupae, and local indigenous plants. Children have watched the life cycle unfold before their eyes, nurturing caterpillars into butterflies and releasing them into the wild. This hands-on experience deepens their understanding of the critical relationship between native vegetation and these pollinators.

 

We’ve also invited families on a nature scavenger hunt to discover local wildlife. With planting packs and insect discovery kits in hand—complete with seeds, nets, magnifying glasses, and more—students have created butterfly-friendly environments in their own backyards.

 

This project made possible by a Junior Landcare grant and supported by Wedderburn Community House, Wedderburn Conservation Management Network, and the Loddon Shire, culminated in the construction of a bee, bug, and butterfly-attracting garden at Wedderburn Kinder. Designed by local landscaper James Cook, this outdoor learning space features local plant species, seating, garden art, and more—all crafted by the community