The Earth’s environment

Brisbane Water National Park

Info for teachers

Everything you need to know about The Earth’s environment.

Program outline

Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing
Macroinvertebrate search using nets and identification sheets
Map reading and map making using geographical tools and natural material
Viewing of Aboriginal rock engraving and discussing the role of rock engravings in story-telling
Role-play the different jobs of NPWS personnel
Bush walk, viewing native flora and fauna
Farewell and depart

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.

Getting there and parking

Girrakool picnic area 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 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.

Maps and downloads

The Earth’s environment 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.

Accessibility

Disability access level - no wheelchair access

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

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