As part of the cultural and social history of the volcanic region, the Centre has an interest in Indigenous experiences and heritage.  We are grateful that some of the Indigenous culture remains and is passed on to visitors and locals.  Basket weaving is an example of local indigenous culture that survives, and today we were privileged to have a class run on this important skill.

A group of about ten people joined in being shown how to use local materials to weave baskets, a variety of which were on display.  Here are some pictures of the weaving being made by participants.

The women demonstrating the basket weaving were Eileen Alberts and Jill Hunter. They are part of Creative Kanawinka which is under the auspices of Kanawinka Geopark.  Materials being used included fresh green sedge, Watsonia, Red Hot Poker, all held together with saddlers thread.

The Volcanoes Discovery Centre has a substantial role in providing education services to children.  The students are given a talk about the formation and significance of Mt Rouse and the volcanic district, and shown through the displays in the centre.  Where possible, the students are also given a tour of Mt Rouse itself.

This week we were visited by over a hundred students from Monivae College in Hamilton.  Shown here are groups listening to the presentation, and studying the timeline of events that formed Mt Rouse.