Racing … Keilor Downs Secondary College students Ashleigh, left, Madeline, Krishna and Tharinda will take part in the Metlink Great Transport Race. 64813
By Natalie Gallenti
KEILOR Downs College students set out on a great race across Melbourne.
The Year 8 youngsters were among nine other secondary schools to participate in the Metlink Great Transport Race qualifying heat today, which kicked off at the Moonee Ponds Clocktower Centre.
Using trains, trams and buses, students set out on an Amazing Race style adventure in teams of four students and one adult supervisor.
Armed with a Melway and using only public transport, teams were required to visit as many pit stops as possible including Highpoint Shopping Centre, Footscray Market and Moonee Valley Racecourse, with the winners making it to the grand final in June.
School co-ordinator Dale Ritchie said the event was a chance for students to gain independence and learn the ins and outs of Melbourne’s extensive public transport network.
Mr Ritchie said while there was a teacher with each group, students got a sense of independence being out on the town together.
The program provided students in Years 7 to 10 the chance to do some real-world learning about safe and responsible public transport travel and how to get to key attractions in their area.
