The country of Australia is experiencing its most disastrous fire season ever.
Over the last three months, the “Gospers Mountain” fire has burned about 16 million acres in New South Wales and Victoria - - the size of West Virginia. Although the fire is now largely contained, several other fires are still burning out of control in other parts of the country, burning millions of more acres.
Due to the fires, it is estimated that hundreds of millions of animals have perished or are facing starvation or dehydration. Among the most affected are kangaroos and koala bears. People around the world, including Westmoreland students, are rallying to help.
During the week of January 20, students at the Primary Elementary School participated in the always popular “kangaroo” unit in physical education class. The annual unit teaches students different ways to jump, or “hop” like kangaroos. Students also learn interesting facts about kangaroos. At the end of the unit, students become official members of the “Kangaroo Club.”
On Friday, January 24, students who brought in $1 could wear their favorite hat. All proceeds were donated to Wildlife Victoria, an organization in Australia that specializes in wildlife emergency response and is working to save animals affected by the destructive wildfires.
Students are happy they were able to “hop” for Australian fire relief!
For more information on Wildlife Victoria, click here.