Year 9s Build Possum Homes at Bunnings Career Taster Event

Our Year 9 students recently had the exciting opportunity to take part in a Career Taster event at Bunnings Warehouse in Treendale. They were welcomed by Bunnings staff member Christie, who guided them through a hands-on project to support our local wildlife, specifically the much-loved brushtail possums.

Students learnt how to safely and effectively use two different types of drills and worked collaboratively to build five possum homes. They painted and decorated their constructions, transforming them into shelters for our native fauna.

In addition to the building project, students were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the store. They explored the inner workings of the warehouse and gained insight into what it’s like to be part of the Bunnings staff.

Manager Harley Ellis shared tips on employability skills, and students also pitched in by helping return stock to shelves. Through these activities, they experienced firsthand the teamwork, responsibility and customer service that go into running the store each day.

A week later, students presented the finished possum shelters to Sharice from FAWNA (Fostering and Assistance for Wildlife Needing Aid). Sharice shared just how valuable these shelters will be, especially given the hundreds of baby possums that are orphaned or abandoned each year between Dunsborough and Bunbury. The shelters will be a vital resource when it comes time to release the animals back into the wild, providing them with a safe and welcoming place to call home.

This engaging and educational experience aligns with our Mercy value of Service. It gave our students a unique look into the world of retail and community service, while also making a meaningful contribution to local wildlife conservation.

A huge thank you to the team at South Regional TAFE, Bunnings Treendale and FAWNA for their generosity and support with this fantastic Career Taster.