School excursion

Community and remembrance at Jibbon Beach

Royal National Park

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Overview

This excursion is currently being revised to be delivered in line with NSW Education’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Principles and Protocols. We will be updating this excursion's name and information online soon.

Read more about Community and remembrance at Jibbon Beach

Students will learn which plants were used to heal and which animals provided sustenance and clothing. We'll learn about the gunyah, the traditional Aboriginal shelter made from branches and bark, and how to build one. 

Together we'll come to understand how the Dharawal People lived in harmony with the seasons and their beautiful local environment.

You can learn more about the deep history of the area here.

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

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

HT2-1. Identifies celebrations and commemorations of significance in Australia and the world

HT2-2. Describes and explains how significant individuals, groups and events contributed to changes in the local community over time

HT2-5. Applies skills of historical inquiry and communication

Objectives

Students will:

  • Meet and speak with an NPWS Aboriginal guide and ask questions about their culture and experiences
  • Closely examine the distinctive features of a range of preserved native animals
  • Learn about the local Dharawal People and their unique relationship with Country
  • Observe culturally significant Aboriginal rock etchings and engravings and discover their meanings 
  • Trek along the coast via Shelly Beach, looking out for marine and bird life
  • Foster a growing appreciation for the connectedness between people and place; Aboriginal connection to Country  

Excursion details

When

Weekdays during school term.

Duration
4hrs
Grading
Medium. Guided activities in a park on grass, along a beach, through a bush track and along a headland.
Price

$17 per student for groups of 25 or more. GST included. For smaller groups conditions apply.

Accessibility
No wheelchair access
Meeting point
Bonnie Vale picnic area carpark (enter via Sea Breeze Lane)
Equipment
provided
Yes. All equipment provided.
Booking
Contact your local NSW National Parks office for more information about the updated excursion.
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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-history-community-remembrance-jibbon-beach/local-alerts

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Operated by

Park info

See more info for teachers

Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about Community and remembrance at Jibbon Beach.

Program outline

  • Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety talk
  • Examine preserved animals and their significance to Dharawal and Aboriginal People
  • Examine Aboriginal artefacts
  • Morning tea and toilet break 
  • Cultural interpretation walk along Jibbon Beach
  • View the Jibbon Beach Aboriginal rock engravings
  • Take the Shelly beach loop walk (time permitting)
  • Lunch
  • Farewell and depart on bus

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    Bonnie Vale picnic area is in the Bundeena area of Royal National Park.

    To drive there from Audley:

    • Drive across Audley Weir and continue along Sir Bertram Stevens Drive for approximately 10km
    • Turn left onto Bundeena Drive and continue to Bundeena township
    • As you enter the town, turn left onto Sea Breeze Lane and follow the signs to the carpark.

    What to bring

    Please wear fully enclosed shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, wet weather gear, and lunch which should be low waste with a refillable water bottle. Students should bring gear in a backpack or similar (not plastic bags). Drinking water is not available.

    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

    This site is not wheelchair accessible. If you have someone with special needs, please let us know in advance so that we can plan accordingly.