School excursion

Bush tucker in Sea Acres National Park

Stage 2 (Years 3-4), Geography, Sea Acres National Park

An Aboriginal guide sharing stories of the Birpai People on a bush tucker school excursion in Sea Acres National Park. Photo: Karina Otoya Davilla © DPIE

Overview

Discover bushtucker secrets with our Aboriginal guide on this Stage 2 (Years 3-4) Geography excursion in Sea Acres National Park. An easy stroll along a boardwalk will reveal this area’s naturally occurring ‘supermarket’, and ‘hardware store’.

Students will be introduced to the stories and culture of the Birpai People as they explore this unique rainforest environment along a 1.3km raised boardwalk. They’ll learn about the deep spiritual and seasonal connections the Birpai People have with Country.

The students will discover how these people lived in harmony and understand the Aboriginal concepts of connection and place. Together we’ll explore how natural medicines provided the basis for the traditional cultural landscape management practices we see today.

This excursion is designed to support the K-10 syllabus’ The earth’s environment topic.

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

Stage	Stage 2 (Years 3-4)
Learning area	Geography
Student outcomes	GE2-1. Examines features and characteristics of places and environments GE2-2. Describes the ways people, places and environments interact GE2-3. Examines differing perceptions about the management of places and environments GE2-4. Acquires and communicates geographical information using geographical tools for inquiry
Objectives	Students will: Recognise that Aboriginal people are the first Australians Investigate the connections that Birpai People have to the land, water, plants and animals of this place. Hear stories about why this place is important to Birpai People and how it can be cared for Find out how Birpai People describe the weather and the seasons Locate the places they know to create a sense of place within Birpai Country Engage with local Aboriginal culture through fun learning activities Have the opportunity to ask questions of a local Birpai Person

Excursion details

When: Weekdays during school terms.
Availability: Guided. Available on request.
Where: Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, Sea Acres National Park
Duration: 2hrs
Grading: Easy
Price: $260 per group (includes GST). Maximum 30 students per group.
Accessibility: Easy
Meeting point: Sea Acres Rainforest 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.

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-2-geography-bush-tucker-sea-acres-national-park/local-alerts

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - North Coast
02 6657 5935
npws.northcoasteducation@environment.nsw.gov.au

Park info

in Sea Acres National Park in the North Coast region
Sea Acres National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

See more visitor info

Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about Bush tucker in Sea Acres National Park.

Program outline

Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing
Explore the boardwalk through the rainforest with your Aboriginal guide
Examine the plants and animals that live and thrive here
Learn how some of these plants and animals were used for food, medicine and tools.
Hear stories of how the Birpai People valued and cared for their environment, seeing it as a source of life and nurture.
Farewell and depart

Getting there and parking

Sea Acres National Park is on Pacific Drive, 5km south of Port Macquarie and next to Shelly Beach.

Road quality

Sealed roads

Vehicle access

2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

All weather

Parking

Parking is available at Sea Acres Rainforest Centre.

By bike

Check out the Bicycle Info website for more information.

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. And remember to bring food and any necessary medications.

It’s a good idea to pack your belongings in a backpack rather than a plastic bag because we have some curious birds who may try to break in and share your lunch with you.

Maps and downloads

Bush tucker in Sea Acres National Park 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 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.