21 Nov 2022
QHS students had a fantastic time at the University of Newcastle last week for National Agriculture Day last week.
Students undertook learning of Meat Science, including a Genetics presentation and activity, a soils presentation, a session in Medical and Health, lesson on grasses, weeds and a session on Artificial Insemination.
Dr Oliver Knox and Ivana Oliver Academy from the team at UNE gave a potting shed presented on a worm hunt.
“Students worked through the characteristics of soils and a workshop to decide what kind of soils worms would or wouldn’t like to live in. They then headed outside for a hunt some worms using dish washing or mustard solution,” said QHS Teacher, Mrs Evans, who took students to the event.
Todd Andrews and Justin Matthews from the NSW Department of Primary Industries offered sessions including activities on topics: crops, weeds, pastures, feed rations, right through to technology in agriculture.
Dr Sam Clarke and former QHS student, Dr Peter McGilchrist, brought cattle into the lecture theatre to cover topics related to genetics, breeding and how these factors influence meat quality.
Patricia O’Shane, from the UNE School of Health faculty of Medicine and Health team, provided a discussion about Q fever, signs and symptoms and immunisation - students then went through some practical activities ranging from basic farm first aid and hand hygiene right through to CPR.
“A lovely BBQ lunch provided by UNE Agriculture was enjoyed by all. It was a great opportunity to see UNE campus facilities, learn about the various agricultural topics and we would like to say a huge thank you to Peter Hird for driving the bus,” concluded Mrs Evans.
Thank you to all QHS teachers and staff for offering this to students.