2009 Media Releases

Magical Bush Pantomimes Engage Youngsters

17 December 2009

Frog and Wallaby with Artarmon Students
The Green Tree Frog and the Wallaby chat to students from Artarmon Public School about why they think they are the most important animals in the bush.

More than 350 Willoughby children have participated in Willoughby City Council’s 2009 Christmas bush pantomimes that enable children to experience the bush in a magical and engaging way.

Pre-school and kindergarten students across Willoughby interacted with plant and animal characters while on a bushwalk through their local bushland.

The children were delighted by a native Flannel Flower, Blue Banded Bee, Trapdoor Spider, Green Tree Frog, an echidna, koala, wallaby and a kangaroo on their adventures to find the most important thing in the bush. Children engaged with each of the characters to find out what made them unique and important to the ecology of the bush. The youngsters discovered that all animals and plants have very special features that make them important and they work together to create the bush environment.

Children were also treated to Christmas songs and the arrival of a wallaby carrying none other than a bush Santa.

“The Christmas bush pantomimes provide an inspiring introduction to the bush for our youngsters. For many of the children that attend the pantomimes, it is their first experience of bushwalking and outdoor education conducted in our stunning bushland surrounds,” said Willoughby Mayor, Pat Reilly.

“The characters and atmosphere create a magical experience to enthuse, engage and educate our children about the wonders of the bush, how to care for it and appreciate it,” he said.

The Christmas bush pantomimes are part of Willoughby City Council’s Bushland Interpretive Program which provides guided bushwalks for all ages. The program provides an opportunity for residents to be introduced to the wonders of nature in an experiential way to build a sense of connection to the natural environment.

The next pre-schoolers bush scrambles will be held on Thursday 4 February and will examine the mysterious animals that make their home in the many hollows and hideaways of Willoughby. Pick up a copy of the latest bushwalks brochure from the Help and Service Centre, level 4, 31 Victor Street, Chatswood. Bookings are essential for all bushwalks.

For more information phone Willoughby City Council on 9777 1000 or visit www.willoughby.nsw.gov.au

Media Contact
Media and Marketing Group Manager
Phone: 9777 7703
Mobile: 0421 492 757
Email: rebecca.hill@willoughby.nsw.gov.au