Gondwanan rainforests: An ecosystem at risk

• Arrive Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and meet ranger/s
• Ranger/s will outline schedule for the day, provide acknowledgement of Country and give a safety briefing
• Short toilet break for students
• 1h 30min ranger presentation and discussion in theatrette space, with a break to view the Skywalk
• 2h 30min ranger-guided walk along Wonga Walk, via Walk with the Birds platform walk to Crystal Shower Falls
• Return to the rainforest centre for bus departure (option to meet bus at The Glade picnic area to save time and legs).

The climate at Dorrigo National Park can be unpredictable, so please be prepared for cold weather by ensuring that all students have a jumper and a raincoat. Fully enclosed shoes, long pants and layers are recommended. Students should bring low-waste lunch and water and bring insect repellent in warmer months.

Dorrigo Rainforest Centre is in the western precinct of Dorrigo National Park. To get there:

From Armidale:

• Drive east along the Waterfall Way for approximately 90 minutes
• Turn left into Dome Road approximately 2km after you pass through Dorrigo.

From Coffs Harbour:

• Travel south along the Pacific Highway
• After crossing the Bellinger River, take the Waterfall Way exit to Dorrigo via Bellingen
• Turn right at Dome Road and continue for approximately 1.6km to the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.

Road quality

• Sealed roads

Vehicle access

• 2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

• All weather

Parking

Bus and car parking is available in a large carpark at Dorrigo Rainforest Centre, including 2 accessible parking spaces. Additional parking is available at The Glade picnic area, 1km south along Lyrebird Lane.

• Gondwanan rainforests: An ecosystem at risk factsheet

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.

Disability access level - medium

Assistance may be required to access this area. There are wide sealed tracks with gentle-medium sloping sections.