Nature play event at new fauna park and playground

Published on 03 March 2020

KANIVA children were able to learn more about nature and the environment at a special event in West Wimmera Shire last week.

West Wimmera Shire Council hosted a Nature Play day at the newly redeveloped Kaniva fauna park. The event included nature-based activities such as birdwatching, identifying plants and having fun with sand and water. The day also included lunch and morning tea.

West Wimmera Shire Council supported playgroup facilitator Katrina Shirrefs said it was a wonderful morning for children and adults alike. She said children thrived in nature.

“With the increase of screen time and technology, kids are playing less outside,” she said. “Nature is important for children’s development.

“Families can support their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of their children by spending more time outside to acknowledge and enjoy the incredible variety available to learn from.”

Ms Shirrefs said children were fascinated by nature. She encouraged adults to help children explore their surrounding outside.

“Be responsive and positive when a child notices something in nature such as a butterfly or a feather,” she said.

West Wimmera Shire Council chief executive David Leahy said the newly developed Kaniva Wetlands and Fauna Park was proving to be a fantastic asset for the town.

Works on the area’s revitalisation project finished last year. The project included a brand new playspace, complete with a flying fox, sand and water play area, and exercise equipment.

Mr Leahy said not only was the area a great spot to local families and travellers, the park also encouraged visitation to the area due to the native wildlife, birds and fauna.

“It is wonderful to see local children taking advantage of these brand new facilities, and learning about animals, bird life and plants at the same time,” he said.

West Wimmera Shire Council will host a nature play event at Goroke on March 6.

Council has zero tolerance for child abuse.