School excursion

Giidany Miirlarl: A special site

Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve

Overview

Join your Aboriginal guide on Muttonbird Island for Giidany Miirlarl, a Stage 3 (Years 5-6) science and Geography excursion. Students will discover the cultural significance of this special place, meaning ‘moon sacred place’ in local Gumbaynggirr language.

Read more about Giidany Miirlarl: A special site

Students will examine how the environment affects the growth, survival and adaptation of plants and animals of this island and the interactions and connections between people and this special place.

An Aboriginal guide will lead students around this important seabird habitat, sharing stories of Gumbaynggirr People and their connection to Country here.

Together we’ll examine the characteristics and fascinating life cycle of wedge-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds). Students will use their scientific skills of enquiry to examine their environment and its inhabitants. They’ll foster an understanding of this unique coastal ecosystem in action.

This scientific approach is enriched through traditional Dreamtime stories that lend another deeper layer of meaning and cultural understanding.

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

Stage	Stage 3 (Years 5-6)
Learning area	Science and Technology
Student outcomes	ST3-4LW-S. Examines how the environment affects the growth, survival and adaptation of living things GE3-2. Explains interactions and connections between people, places and environments
Objectives	Students will: Recognise that Aboriginal people are the first Australians Learn from a local Gumbaynggirr Person Visit an active nesting rookery for wedge-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds) Use scientific methods of enquiry to learn more about the unique adaptations of these birds. Discuss the demands their breeding cycle places on them. Listen to Gumbaynggirr Dreamtime stories that provide deeper context to the role of this important nesting colony Examine the local environment at Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve and learn what’s involved in its preservation and sustainable management Investigate the deep connections that the Gumbaynggirr People have to the land, sea and animals of this place.

Excursion details

Availability: Guided. Available on request.
Where: Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve in North Coast
Duration: 2hrs
Grading: Medium
Price: $260 per group (includes GST). Maximum 30 students per group. For groups over 30 conditions apply.
Accessibility: Medium
Meeting point: The outdoor learning centre, located at the base of Muttonbird Island.
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-science-giidany-miirlarl-a-special-site-muttonbird-island-nature-reserve/local-alerts

Operated by

North Coast

Park info

in Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve in the North Coast region
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve 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 Giidany Miirlarl: A special site.

Program outline

Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing
Cultural significance of the island
Split into groups (1:30)
Make our way to Giidany Miirlarl
Explore the island with an NPWS Aboriginal guide
Examine the nesting rookery of muttonbirds and discuss their adaptations and unique breeding cycle
Discuss the broader ecosystem and connection between all living things here
Share in Dreamtime stories
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. Remember to bring extra food and water, and any necessary medications. Please bring your belongings in a backpack rather than a plastic bag.

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 - medium

The outdoor learning centre is wheelchair accessible. Muttonbird Island walking track includes sections of steps, a narrow path and steep gradients. It is not considered wheelchair accessible.