Two Year 9 students from Woodleigh School are preparing for a unique opportunity to learn from scientists working on the front line of environmental conservation, and Rotary Club of Mt Eliza is helping them get there.

Ethan and Xavier have been selected to participate in Operation Wallacea, a two-week conservation research expedition to Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, in June/July 2027.

Their journey will take them into tropical rainforests before heading to Hoga Island in the Wakatobi Marine National Park, where they will learn how researchers monitor biodiversity, study wildlife and assess the health of coral reef ecosystems.

Both students have already demonstrated a strong interest in the environment through school projects, tree planting and local conservation activities. Xavier has also explored the importance of protecting local beaches, while their shared interest in marine life and recent open-water scuba diving qualifications have sparked their enthusiasm for the expedition's underwater research.

The experience will provide an opportunity to learn practical field research techniques alongside scientists, including wildlife surveys, forest monitoring, coral reef assessments and studies of marine species.

Importantly, the students hope to bring their knowledge back to the Mornington Peninsula, applying what they learn to a better understanding of local conservation challenges and the protection of native habitats.

Rotary helping young people take action

With the expedition costing approximately $7,000 per student, Ethan and Xavier have been working hard to raise funds to help make their participation possible.

Rotary Club of Mt Eliza has supported their fundraising through two practical community activities.

In August, the students organised a group of 27 family members and friends to help plant more than 500 native trees on private property in Flinders. The project will help establish wildlife habitat and corridors for koalas and other native animals.

More recently, they joined Rotarians, family and friends to pack 2,000 oil testing kits in just four and a half hours, demonstrating the teamwork and commitment that have characterised their fundraising efforts.

Together, the activities have raised $4,300 towards their expedition.

Investing in the next generation

Ethan and Xavier's initiative demonstrates how young people can turn an interest in the environment into meaningful action. Their expedition will give them a deeper understanding of the science behind conservation and the importance of collecting reliable evidence to help protect vulnerable ecosystems.

Rotary Club of Mt Eliza is proud to support young people who are keen to learn, contribute and make a difference.

We look forward to welcoming Ethan and Xavier back after their expedition to hear about their discoveries and how their experiences might inspire further conservation work in our own community.