School excursion

Heritage detectives

Arakoon National Park

Image of a group touring the magnificent granite walls of Trial Bay Gaol

Overview

Help unlock mysteries of the past while exploring historic Trial Bay Gaol from top to bottom. Who were the prisoners and where did they came from? What crimes did they commit to deserve their punishment and what work they carry out in captivity?

Stage	Stage 3 (Years 5-6)
Learning area	History
Student outcomes	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: Hear stories of people and groups who lived and worked at this site in the past, rich and poor, educated and illiterate, free and enslaved Discover the role that people of diverse backgrounds have played in the development and character of this site Use skills of historical inquiry and communication to uncover the history of the gaol Use a range of sources such as photographs, newspapers, oral histories, diaries and letters Explore the site to understand how it has changed Find out why this place is a national park, how it is used, cared for and managed today.

Excursion details

When: Available on weekdays during school term.
Availability: Guided. Available on request.
Where: Trial Bay Gaol, Arakoon National Park
Duration: 2hrs
Grading: Easy. Tracks and paths not suitable for most wheelchairs. If you have someone with special needs, please let us know in advance so that we can plan ahead.
Price: $260 per group, which includes Gaol admission and your own ranger guide. Price includes GST. Max 30 students per group. For groups over 30 conditions apply.
Accessibility: Medium
Meeting point: Main gates of Trial Bay Gaol.
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-3-hsie-heritage-detectives-arakoon-national-park/local-alerts

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - Port Macquarie
02 6566 6168
npws.northcoasteducation@environment.nsw.gov.au
73 Trial Bay Gaol Road, Arakoon NSW 2431

Park info

in Arakoon National Park in the North Coast region
Arakoon 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 Heritage detectives .

Program outline

Excursion program

arrive and take a recess break
welcome
introduction to the site, the Goal precinct and local wildlife

Group activities:

guided activities to explore the Goal, follow the clues and unravel the mysteries
teacher led bushwalk to Monument Hill
bring a picnic lunch to enjoy after the activities

Getting there and parking

Trial Bay Gaol is in Arakoon National Park.

From South West Rocks:

Follow Phillip Drive
Turn left onto Cardwell Street
Continue along Cardwell Street until you reach Trial Bay Goal

Road quality

Sealed roads

Vehicle access

2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

All weather

Parking

Parking is available at Trial Bay Gaol, including designated bus parking.

Find out if your school is eligible to apply for the Unlocking Heritage program. Schools that score an FOEI of 100+ are eligible for a $20 travel subsidy per student.

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). Please note: You're welcome to stay for a picnic lunch and spend some time in this beautiful location.

Maps and downloads

Heritage detectives 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

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 - medium

Not suitable for most wheelchairs. If you have someone with special needs, please let us know in advance so we can plan ahead.