School excursion
Gondwanan rainforests: An ecosystem at risk
Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography, Dorrigo National Park
Overview
Gondwanan Rainforests is a Stage 6 (Year 12) Geography school excursion in Dorrigo National Park for students studying Ecosystems and Global Biodiversity. There is a 1h 30m specialised ranger presentation, followed by a 2h 30m guided walk.
Read more about Gondwanan rainforests: An ecosystem at risk
On this excursion students will understand why the World Heritage-listed Gondwanan rainforests of Dorrigo National Park are globally significant and protect a range of unique biogeographical characteristics. These include some of the oldest songbirds and flowering plants on Earth.
Students will examine the interaction between topography, aspect, climate and spatial distribution of rainforest across the park. They'll apply this information to understand the critical role of the Great Eastern Escarpment as a moist refuge for rainforest across millions of years.
Students will assess a range of key anthropogenic threats to rainforest ecosystem functionality. These include wildfire and climate warming, with particular reference to endemic threatened animal life present in the park.
NPWS management responses to wildfire and visitor engagement are covered in detail. Students will learn about new and emerging approaches to remote firefighting and the use of innovative wildlife sculptures within the park.
Students will also collect wind speed, temperature and humidity data from above and below the canopy, and discuss the role of the canopy layer in maintaining a moist microclimate.
The ranger-guided walk visits Crystal Shower Falls where students cross a high suspension bridge to walk behind the falls (subject to rainfall-related track closures).
For program outline, safety and practical information about this excursion, see info for teachers
| Stage | Stage 6 (Years 11-12) |
|---|---|
| Learning area | Geography |
| Student outcomes |
GE-12-01. Analyses rural and urban places, ecosystems, global biodiversity and economic activity, for their characteristics, spatial patterns, interactions, and nature and extent of change over time GE-12-02. Analyses geographical processes and influences, at a range of scales, that form and transform places and environments GE-12-04. Evaluates responses and management strategies, at a range of scales, for sustainability GE-12-07. Selects and applies geographical inquiry skills and tools, including spatial technologies, fieldwork and ethical practices, to investigate places and environments |
| Objectives |
Students will:
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Excursion details
- Availability
- Guided. Available on request year round, subject to ranger availability.
- Duration
- 4hrs
- Grading
- Easy. Includes a 4.6km guided walk on a sealed track with sections of uphill gentle gradient. Some steps near the falls.
- Price
-
$370 per group (includes GST). Maximum 30 students per group. For groups over 30 conditions apply.
- Accessibility
- Medium
- Meeting point
- Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.
- Equipment
provided - Yes. Kestrel Weather meter available.
- 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.
Operated by
- School excursion inquiries - North Coast
- 02 6657 5935
- npws.northcoasteducation@environment.nsw.gov.au
Park info
- in Dorrigo National Park in the North Coast region
Dorrigo National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.