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School excursion

Special Offer

Whale secrets

Stage 1 (Years 1-2), Science and Technology, Cape Byron State Conservation Area

Overview

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Discover whale secrets at Cape Byron Lighthouse Headland. Students will experience a playful mix of drama, games, story, and ocean discovery for Stage 1 (Years 1-2) students. This excursion supports the Living World topic of the K-10 Science and Technology syllabus.

Read more about Whale secrets

Students will learn how to identify humpback whales based on their characteristics and features. They will understand how the marine environment provides for the needs of whales species.

They will meet Bowe the humpback whale and explore his life story. Students will make informal measurements and record observations using labels and tables.

Students will come away with a greater understanding of whales and how science helps us how to care for this important species.

There is dedicated time for whale watching and seeking out other marine animals and seabirds from fantastic vantage points throughout this iconic reserve.

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

Stage Stage 1 (Years 1-2)
Learning area Science and Technology
Student outcomes

ST1-4LW-S. Describes observable features of living things and their environments

ST1-5LW-T. Identifies how plants and animals are used for food and fibre products
Objectives

Students will:

  • Learn the external characteristics and features of a humpback whale
  • Investigate how to group whales based on their external features
  • Understand that the marine environment provides for the needs of whales species
  • Identify that whales live in different places to suit their needs
  • Understand ways in which we use science to care and protect whales
  • Explore how whales grow, change and have offspring similar to themselves
  • Learn how whale products are used today and in the past to meet human needs.

Excursion details

When

Weekdays during school term.

Availability
Guided. Available on request.
Where
Cape Byron walking track, Cape Byron State Conservation Area
Duration
2hrs
Grading
Easy. Guided activities in a national park, on formed and uneven bushwalking tracks and on a grassy picnic area. The track from the lighthouse to Wategos Beach is around 1km.
Price

$12 per person (includes GST). Minimum fee of $240.00 (includes GST). Teachers and other staff are free.

Accessibility
No wheelchair access
Meeting point
Cape Byron Lighthouse precinct at the end of Lighthouse Road, Byron Bay. Groups meet on the verandah of the northern side of the Lighthouse Keepers Cottage (visitor centre).
Equipment
provided
Yes
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.
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Operated by

Park info

  • in Cape Byron State Conservation Area in the North Coast region
    • Cape Byron State Conservation Area is open all hours, but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
    • Cape Byron Lighthouse lawn is open 8am to sunset.
    • The Maritime Museum in the former Lighthouse Keeper’s office at the base of the lighthouse is open 10am to 4pm daily.
    • Opening before 8am for events or disabled access can be arranged by prior notice – contact NPWS Byron Bay office during business hours 02 6639 8300.

  • Park entry fees:

    Cape Byron Lighthouse lawn and Information Centre: $10 per vehicle per hour/$4 per hour motorcycles. Maximum 1 hour per vehicle per calendar day, including all NPWS annual passholders.

    Captain Cook lookout, Cosy Corner, and The Pass: $5 per vehicle/motorcycle per hour. Tap and pay card or phone payments accepted at pay machines. Cash and credit cards accepted at Cape Byron Information Centre.

    Coach entry: $30 per coach up to 30 seats; $57 per coach 31 to 43 seats; $94 per coach 44 seats and over.

    Buy annual pass
See more visitor info