School excursion

The Australian colonies at Jibbon Beach

Royal National Park

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.

We'll learn about the beliefs and values of the Dharawal People and their strong connection to Country. Together we'll examine a number of spiritual sites and enact cultural protocol, showing respect for elders past and present.

We'll traverse a rocky outcrop and view Aboriginal rock engravings up close. Students will learn about the Dharawal seasonal calendar, explore middens and learn about gunyahs (shelters) by recreating an Aboriginal camp.

The group will come away with a deep appreciation for the way of life of the Dharawal People. Students will understand how life changed for the Dharawal People following British settlement in the 1770s.

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

Stage	Stage 3 (Years 5-6)
Learning area	History
Student outcomes	HT3-1. Describes and explains the significance of people, groups, places and events to the development of Australia HT3-2. Describes and explains different experiences of people living in Australia over time HT3-5. Applies a variety of skills of historical inquiry and communication
Objectives	Students will: Examine a range of preserved animals and learn how and why these species were important to the Dharawal People Participate in demonstrations to understand the role of tools and other Aboriginal artefacts Walk along Jibbon Beach and learn about Aboriginal culture through stories and tales of the Dreaming Learn the cultural protocol associated with visiting sites of spiritual and cultural significance Examine Aboriginal rock engravings at Jibbon Beach headland Meet an Aboriginal person and participate in discussions about culture, the environment and the impact of white settlement

Excursion details

When: Weekdays during school term.
Availability: Guided. Available on request.
Where: Royal National Park in Sydney and surrounds, South Coast
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.

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-3-history-the-australian-colonies-jibbon-beach/local-alerts

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - Sydney South
02 9542 0615
npws.royalguidedtours@environment.nsw.gov.au
PO Box 144, Audley NSW 2232

Park info

in Royal National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and South Coast regions
Royal National Park is open 7am to 8.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
Park entry fees:
$12 per vehicle per day. Payment options include Audley Visitor Centre, vehicle entry stations, pay machines and the Park’nPay app.
Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).
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 The Australian colonies at Jibbon Beach.

Program outline

Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety talk
Examine a range of preserved animals, and observe and discuss their unique features
Learn about and demonstrate the use of a range of Aboriginal artefacts
Morning tea and toilet break
Walk and cultural interpretation along Jibbon Beach
Visit Jibbon Beach headland and view Aboriginal rock engravings
Take the Shelly Beach loop walk (time permitting)
Lunch
Farewell and depart on bus

Getting there and parking

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

The Australian colonies at Jibbon Beach 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

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.