Conargo Students Paint the Town Red with Rare Ruby Saltbush

Published on 04 October 2023

Conargo Primary School students are helping to save the region’s rare Ruby Saltbush, and beautify their township at the same time, by participating in a unique program.

After receiving a $16,000 grant from the Pretorus Education Group, the School set about collaborating with local Landcare group, YACTAC (Yanco Creek and Tributaries Advisory Council Inc.) to learn about their local environment. Under the guidance of Principal/Teacher Christine Smith and Teacher Kylie Charlton, the 11 students from Conargo Primary School, from preps to grade 6, embarked on a unique educational journey, supported by environmental experts Bronwyn Hicks and Andrea Mitchell from YACTAC.

The “Saving The Rare Ruby Saltbush Program” created by the School featured the following program highlights:

• Theory Classes: Students delved into classroom lessons focused on plant biology and the specific care required to nurture the Ruby Saltbush. 
• Field Excursions: The young environmentalists explored local sites to differentiate various species of Saltbush and locate mature Ruby Saltbush for seed extraction. 
• Seed Preparation: Students extracted, treated, and dried seeds from mature Ruby Saltbush bushes. 
• Planting & Care: The seeds were sown in propagation posts provided with regular watering and care. 
• First Signs of Growth: The community celebrated as the first new Ruby Saltbush plants began to emerge. 

The project culminated last week, with the students actively participating in the planting process around the Community Hall and Conargo village entrances, assisted by Edward River Council’s Acting Manager of Transport & Facilities Fred Heinze. Photographs captured the palpable excitement among students, teachers, and community members alike.

“This project not only serves as an educational cornerstone but also fosters community involvement and environmental stewardship,” said Fred Heinze. “The 'Saving the Rare Ruby Saltbush' initiative is a remarkable example of how small communities can make significant contributions to local biodiversity. It also aligns perfectly with Council’s aspiration for our villages, and shows the spirit of Conargo, where the legend truly does live on."