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Horticulture students revive tornado-hit tourist park
The damage caused by December's tornado to Village Roadshow’s Paradise Country. is now just a memory, thanks to the hard work of these Gold Coast horticulture students.
These Ashmore campus students traded their books for wheelbarrows, rolling up their sleeves to help restore this beautiful space as part of their Certificate III in Horticulture (AHC30722) studies.
Whether it was laying mulch or tending to the grass, their dedication is helping to bring the park back to life for the community to enjoy once again.
Student, Michelle Smith, 40, sees the project as both rewarding and educational.
“Seeing the damage caused by the tornado was shocking,” said Michelle.
“The loss of vegetation has been devastating, especially when you know how much it shaped the visitor experience at Paradise Country.”
“It’s been incredible to be part of the recovery process and learn firsthand how to restore such a beautiful natural space,” she said.
Under the guidance of their TAFE Queensland teacher, Kim Hodgkisson and Paradise Country’s expert staff, the students gain invaluable real-world experience while actively contributing to the regeneration of the environment.
“One of the key goals of the project has been to create a sustainable landscape that will endure future challenges,” said Kim.
“By carefully selecting and planting native species, the students are helping ensure the long-term health and resilience of Paradise Country’s ecosystem.”
For 37-year-old Horticulture student, Luke Walters the real-world experience has reaffirmed his passion for working outdoors and to go after a career in horticulture.
“It feels good to contribute to the recovery of the area—not just for the people, but for the animals too,” said Luke.
"I’ve loved having the opportunity to give back to the community. I didn’t realise how badly the tornado had damaged the area until we saw it firsthand.
"Helping restore some of the natural spaces around the park has been a really rewarding experience," he said.
The project is a vital part of the long-term recovery plan for Paradise Country, which has always prided itself on its lush native vegetation and picturesque scenery.
This collaborative project between TAFE Queensland and Paradise Country demonstrates the essential role horticulturists play in preserving and restoring natural environments.