School excursion

Bush tucker in Bongil Bongil National Park

Stage 3 (Years 5-6), Geography, Bongil Bongil National Park

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Overview

Share the bush secrets of the traditional Gumbaynggirr People in Bush tucker – a Stage 3 (Years 5-6) excursion in Bongil Bongil National Park. Aboriginal guides will reveal their special connection to Country and their secrets for health, wellness and survival.

Read more about Bush tucker in Bongil Bongil National Park

With help from your traditional guide, Bonville Creek will reveal its ‘supermarket’, ‘pharmacy’ and ‘hardware store', places that have been serving the wise Gumbaynggirr People for millenia. 

Students are introduced to the seasonal connection the custodians have with this land. They’ll learn how their deep connection to Country has informed the cultural landscape management practices of the region. 

This excursion supports the K-10 geography syllabus and its topic; Factors that Shape Places.

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

Stage Stage 3 (Years 5-6)
Learning area Geography
Student outcomes

GE3-1. Describes the diverse features and characteristics of places and environments

GE3-2. Explains interactions and connections between people, places and environments

GE3-3. Compares and contrasts influences on the management of places and environments

GE3-4. Acquires, processes and communicates geographical information using geographical tools for inquiry
Objectives

Students will:

  • Recognise that Aboriginal people are the first Australians
  • Investigate the connections that the Gumbaynggirr People have to the land, water, plants and animals of this place.
  • Hear stories to understand why this place is important to Gumbaynggirr People and how it can be cared for 
  • Find out how Gumbaynggirr People describe the weather and the seasons 
  • Locate the places they know to create a sense of place within Gumbaynggirr Country 
  • Engage with local Aboriginal culture through fun learning activities 
  • Have the opportunity to ask questions of a local Gumbaynggirr Person

Excursion details

Where
Bongil Bongil National Park in North Coast
Duration
2hrs
Grading
Easy
Price

$305 per group (includes GST). Maximum 30 students per group. Maximum 2 groups.

Accessibility
Medium
Meeting point
Bongil picnic area, 15 minutes south of Coffs Harbour via Williams Road.
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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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-geography-bush-tucker-bongil-bongil-national-park/local-alerts

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Park info

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Info for teachers

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

Program outline

  • Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing 
  • Explore the riverside area next to Bonville Creek 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 Gumbaynggirr People valued and cared for their environment, seeing it as a source of life and nurture.
  • Learn about the Gumbaynggirr connection to the seasons and how these considerations informed cultural land management practices 
  • Farewell and depart
 

Getting there and parking

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    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

    Bongil picnic area has medium accessibility grading and some assistance may be required to access the area.