School excursion

Aboriginal culture

Tomaree National Park

Students on a school excursion are shown local native edible plants. Photo: Adam Hollingworth © DPIE

Overview

Bring your students to this unique excursion in Tomaree National Park, near Port Stephens. 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: Tomaree Head Summit walk, Tomaree National Park
Duration: 2-4 hr
Grading: Hard. Guided tour and activities happen on uneven surfaces in the park. There are steps and undulating surfaces.
Price: Prices start from $225 per group, up to 30 students for 2 hours. For groups over 30, conditions apply.
Accessibility: No wheelchair access
Meeting point: Zenith Street carpark.
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.

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-tomaree-national-park/local-alerts

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - Newcastle Hunter
02 4927 3267
discovery.newcastlehunter@environment.nsw.gov.au
Hunter Wetland Centre, Sandgate Road, Shortland NSW

Park info

in Tomaree National Park in the North Coast region
Tomaree National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

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

Tomaree Head Summit walk is at Tomaree Head.

From Nelson Bay, follow Shoal Bay Road to the lower Zenith Beach carpark.

Parking

Parking is available at the lower Zenith Beach carpark or upper Zenith beach carpark.

On busy days you may need to find a parking spot on Shoal Bay Road.

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

Aboriginal culture factsheet

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.