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Rock-enthusiasts from Miles State School became explorers today in a mineral-packed learning extravaganza.

The Exploring beneath our Feet workshop, has been developed by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) to engage primary students in the wonderful world of geology.

The workshop, delivered in partnership with Arrow Energy, gave nearly 70 students from Years 3 – 6 the opportunity to dig into the world of geological connections between mineral resources and everyday life.

Arrow Energy’s Senior Planning Operations Geologist, Michael Oberhardt was on hand to guide the students and said Arrow was proud to be partnering with the QMEA to foster an early interest in earth sciences.

“Children this age are naturally curious about the world around them and have a fascination with rocks,” said Mr Oberhardt.

“It was great to share my passion for geology with the Miles State School students and help them understand how rocks are formed and the different sedimentary layers that lie beneath their feet,” he said.

“The students were enthusiastic explorers of the earth today and they have learnt a lot about the connection between the resources underground which create the energy and minerals we need in modern day life.”

Katrina-Lee Jones, Queensland Resources Council (QRC) Policy Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, said the primary school workshop had been developed to complement and enhance the Australian science curriculum.

“These students live in a region with a wealth of natural resources, so engaging them in study of geology gives them a greater understanding about why and how the natural landscape around them was created,” said Ms Jones.

“Today the students completed practical science experiments and heard from a senior geologist about the special land features of the Western Downs,” she said.

“I hope today has excited the students about studying earth sciences and planted a seed to continue these studies in secondary school.

“There might even be some future geologists amongst them!”