on 10/12/2024
Get ready to sing, dance, and discover with Fossil Rock! This innovative kids’ series combines music, science, and adventure to bring the story of the world’s oldest fossils, the Ediacara biota, to life. Launching globally on YouTube on December 14, 2024, Fossil Rock is free to access, ensuring its fun and educational content can reach children, families, and schools around the world.
Filmed at the breathtaking Nilpena Ediacara National Park in South Australia's Flinders Ranges, Fossil Rock introduces viewers to a rich scientific legacy through a playful and engaging format. Written and hosted by talented children’s performer Lucy Rasheed, whose energy and passion captivate young
audiences, the series combines interactive songs and storytelling to spark curiosity and inspire discovery. Technical guidance on the fascinating fossils and their history was provided by US-based world-renowned palaeontologist Dr. Mary Droser, ensuring the series stays true to the extraordinary science behind the Ediacara biota while bringing it to life for a new generation of fossil fans.
"Growing up in the Flinders Ranges, I’ve always been in awe of the incredible landscapes and history that surround us," says Lucy Rasheed. "Fossil Rock is such a special project for me because it combines my love of performing with the opportunity to share the magic of this region with kids everywhere.”
"The challenge with scientific language and concepts is making them not only educational but also entertaining for young minds. Lucy goes beyond that, transforming these complex ideas into catchy, singable songs that kids adore. Her ability to write, perform, and bring such joy to these topics is what makes Fossil Rock so special," says Kylie Claude, producer of Fossil Rock.
Highlights of Fossil Rock
- Filming Location: Shot on location at Nilpena Ediacara National Park in South Australia's Flinders Ranges - a site of global significance, home to the world’s oldest fossils, and part of the region nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status.
- Curriculum Aligned: Designed for educators, aligning with Australian Curriculum in Science and HASS.
- Global Accessibility: Premiering on YouTube, ensuring free and inclusive access for children and educators worldwide.
- Expert Collaboration: Features contributions from world-renowned palaeontologist Dr. Mary Droser, alongside local experts and educators.
- Interactive Content: Combines music, animation, and storytelling to engage kids aged 4–9 in learning about this ancient life.
Expert Collaboration
Fossil Rock has been shaped by the contributions of renowned experts and passionate locals, ensuring both scientific accuracy and an authentic connection to the Flinders Ranges.
- Dr. Mary Droser, a distinguished professor of geology at the University of California, and longtime collaborator with NASA on astrobiology, provided essential technical guidance to ensure the fossils’ story was accurately told.
- Phil and Heather, part of Dr. Droser’s research team, participated on camera, offering valuable on-ground insights into the Ediacara biota and their significance.
- Ross Fargher, local landowner and custodian of the fossil sites, shared invaluable knowledge of the region on camera and provided incredible support during filming.
“It’s incredible to share the Ediacara biota’s story with kids everywhere,” says Dr. Droser. “These fossils hold clues to the origins of animals, and Fossil Rock translates this extraordinary history into something that’s fun and accessible.”
A Call to Action for Educators
Aligned with the Australian Curriculum across multiple learning areas, including Science (Biological and Earth Sciences), HASS, English, and Performing Arts, Fossil Rock is a ready-made classroom resource. Teachers will have access to resources including, activity sheets, and curriculum tables to easily
incorporate the series into their classrooms.
Kate Dilger from the South Australian Science Teachers Association (SASTA) says, “Fossil Rock offers an exciting, curriculum-aligned resource that will inspire both teachers and students. It’s a fantastic way to explore the wonders of science while engaging young learners through music and storytelling.”
Support from the Flinders Ranges Ediacara Foundation
The Flinders Ranges Ediacara Foundation (FREF) has been a cornerstone of Fossil Rock’s development, supporting its mission to connect children with the region’s rich fossil heritage. “We are proud to support this fun and educational project. Fossil Rock highlights the Flinders Ranges' rich Ediacara heritage in a way that will spark curiosity in young minds,” says Mary Lou Simpson OAM,
Founder and Chair of FREF.
Global Accessibility
Fossil Rock will premiere on YouTube, reflecting its mission to be freely inclusive and accessible to families and educators worldwide. By choosing a global platform, the series bridges local stories with international audiences, encouraging greater awareness of South Australia’s Ediacara fossil heritage.
“Fossil Rock is a celebration of our natural history and a resource we’re proud to share with schools and children worldwide,” says Kylie, producer of the series.
Where to Watch
Fossil Rock premieres December 14, 2024, on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@seastarrock
Visit the official website for trailers, behind-the-scenes content, and teacher resources: https://www.seastarrock.com/fossilrock
About Fossil Rock
Fossil Rock is an innovative educational series created to inspire kids to learn about the prehistoric world in a fun, interactive way. Produced by Fastbreak Films and Sea Star Rock, the series highlights South Australia’s rich Ediacara history and its role as a possible world heritage fossil site.
For more information, trailers, and behind-the-scenes content, visit https://www.seastarrock.com/fossilrock.
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