School excursion

Aboriginal culture

Brisbane Water National Park

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Overview

Bring your students to this unique excursion in Brisbane Water National Park, near Gosford. They’ll experience the park through the eyes of an Aboriginal person on this Stage 2 (Years 3-4) Aboriginal culture Geography excursion.

Read more about Aboriginal culture

Students will learn about First Nations people, their connection to country and the impact of European settlement on the area. They'll engage with Aboriginal culture through fun learning activities. They’ll hear Dreamtime stories and will investigate the connections that First Nations people have to this place.

For program outline, safety and practical information about this excursion, see info for teachers

Stage Stage 2 (Years 3-4)
Learning area Geography
Student outcomes

GE2-1. Examines features and characteristics of places and environments

GE2-2. Describes the ways people, places and environments interact

GE2-3. Examines differing perceptions about the management of places and environments

Objectives

Students will:

  • Recognise that Aboriginal people are the first Australians
  • Investigate the connections that Aboriginal people have to the land, sea and animals of this place
  • Hear stories to understand why country is important to Aboriginal people and how it can be cared for
  • Find out how Aboriginal people describe the weather and the seasons
  • Engage with Aboriginal culture through fun learning activities
 

Excursion details

When

Weekdays during school term.

Where
Brisbane Water National Park in Sydney and surrounds
Duration
2hrs
Grading
Medium. There are uneven surfaces, steps and undulating areas.
Price

$225 per class (maximum of 30 students per class).

Accessibility
No wheelchair access
Meeting point
Girrakool picnic area
Equipment
provided
Yes
Booking
If you would like to organise a NPWS school excursion please get in touch with local staff or use the 'Enquire' link for the online form.
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Current alerts in this area

There are no current alerts in this area.

Local alerts

For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/education/stage-2-geography-aboriginal-culture-brisbane-water-national-park/local-alerts

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Operated by

Park info

  • in Brisbane Water National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region

  • Two picnic areas in this park – Girrakool picnic area and Somersby Falls picnic area – are closed in the evening. They are open 7am to 8pm during daylight savings and 7am to 6pm at other times.

    Other areas of Brisbane Water National Park will be open at all times, however may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

  • Park entry fees:

    $8 per vehicle per day. The park has pay machines that accept both card and coins, or you can pay via the Park'nPay app.

    Other fees:

    You will need a permit to hold a wedding or undertake commercial photography within the park.

    Buy annual pass (//pass.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/).
See more info for teachers

Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about Aboriginal culture.

Program outline

  • Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing
  • Bush walk –environment and culture
  • Morning tea
  • Aboriginal cultural activities (can include weapons and tools, bush foods or art)
  • Local Dreamtime stories
  • Conclusion and farewell 
 

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    Girrakool loop track is located in the northern section of Brisbane Water National Park.

    To get there from the F3 Highway:

    • Exit Central Coast Highway towards Gosford
    • Take the first left onto Wisemans Ferry Road
    • Take the first left onto Old Pacific Highway
    • Take the first left onto Quarry Road
    • The picnic area, where the trail begins, is through the tunnel and straight ahead.
     

    Parking

    • Parking is available at Girrakool picnic area, including 1 accessible parking space.
    • A wooden beam runs along the length of the carpark. People with reduced mobility may need assistance to get across the wooden beam.
    • Please be aware of the carpark opening hours. Gates are locked at closing.
     

    What to bring

    Please wear long pants, closed comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen. Be ready for all weather conditions with a jumper and raincoat. And remember to bring food and any necessary medications.

    It’s a good idea to pack your belongings in a backpack rather than a plastic bag because we have some curious birds who may try to break in and share your lunch with you.

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    Pre activity briefing: participants will be briefed at the start of the activity/day.

    Safety equipment: NPWS staff carry radios and first aid kits, hold current first aid certificates and are aware of emergency procedures.

    Staff accreditation: NPWS staff have current Senior First Aid accreditation. They are experienced in working with groups of students in the natural environment and have excellent knowledge of the specific areas they are visiting including potential hazards. NPWS is committed to a Child Safe and Friendly Environment. Our staff have been screened for child-related employment and have completed a Working with Children Check.

    Emergencies: NPWS staff are trained to deal with emergencies and emergency procedures are in place. Ongoing supervision of a student following first aid treatment will be the responsibility of the visiting school.

    Risk assessment and risk benefits

    Our rangers and guides have the technical skill and experience to assess the risks and the benefits of a variety of activities delivered as part of our learning programs.

    We believe in including opportunities that allow students to learn and experience for themselves through exploration in the natural environment.

    Please make your own risk assessment based on the information provided. Detailed potential risks and controls are provided for the site to assist teachers in risk management planning. Teachers and carers should be aware of, and consider the needs, abilities and medical conditions of students when visiting this site. The supervision of students remains the responsibility of the teacher. The school must ensure an adequate number of adult supervisors are present.

    Accessibility

    Disability access level - no wheelchair access

    • The track is not wheelchair-accessible.
    • Girakool picnic area is wheelchair-accessible.