School excursion

Rainforest ecosystems - Minnamurra

Stage 5 (Years 9-10), Science, Budderoo National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

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Overview

Rainforest ecosystems is a Stage 5 (Years 9-10) school excursion in Budderoo National Park which focuses on Science. You'll investigate the biotic and abiotic features of Minnamurra rainforest, the cycling of materials and human interactions.

Read more about Rainforest ecosystems - Minnamurra

Students will then learn about what is done to manage human impacts on this ecosystem.

Students will experience the Minnamurra Rainforest ecosystem and investigate the interactions taking place and gain hands on experience of the living world.

Along the rainforest walk, students will investigate the features of some plants and animals are adaptations for survival in the rainforest environment. Students will also learn about and review solutions to conserving and managing the rainforest ecosystems.

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

Stage Stage 5 (Years 9-10)
Learning area Science
Student outcomes

SC5-14LW. Analyses interactions between components and processes within biological systems

SC5-15LW. Explains how biological understanding has advanced through scientific discoveries, technological developments and the needs of society

Objectives

Students will:

  • Evaluate some strategies used to balance conserving, protecting and maintaining the quality and sustainability of the environment with human activities and needs
  • Take a guided walk through the rainforest
  • Measure and record abiotic factors of the rainforest ecosystems
  • Record the flora and fauna observed during fieldwork; identify introduced species
  • Observe and record adaptations of plants
  • Draw and label a diagram of an animal and its adaptations
  • Complete food chains relevant to the ecosystem.

Excursion details

When

Weekdays during school terms.

Availability
Guided. Available on request.
Where
Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, Budderoo National Park
Duration
2hrs 30min
Grading
Easy. Classroom presentation and guided walk through the rainforest.
Price

Minimum $350 per group for up to 25 students, $14 per student (includes GST)

Accessibility
No wheelchair access
Meeting point
Minnamurra Rainforest Centre.
Equipment
provided
Yes. Worksheet masters, pre and post-activity resources, and additional references will be provided on booking.
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-5-science-rainforest-ecosystems-budderoo-national-park/local-alerts

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Operated by

Park info

See more visitor info

Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about Rainforest ecosystems - Minnamurra .

Program outline

  • Welcome, introductions, safety briefing and acknowledgement
  • Classroom presentation
  • Group discussion and question time
  • Guided walk through rainforest 
  • Optional self-guided walk to waterfall
     

Getting there and parking

Minnamurra Rainforest Centre is located in the foothills of Jamberoo Valley, west of Kiama on the NSW South Coast. To get there from Jamberoo, drive west on Jamberoo Road and turn left onto Jamberoo Mountain Road. Take the first right onto Minnamurra Falls Road, and you’ll find Minnamurra Rainforest Centre about 3km along to the end of the road.

Road quality

  • Sealed roads

Vehicle access

  • 2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

  • All weather

Parking

Car and bus parking is available in a bitumen carpark at Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, including 2 accessible parking spots.

Note that coach bookings are essential prior to arrival.

What to bring

Please wear fully enclosed shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, wet weather gear, and lunch which should be low waste with a refillable water bottle. Students should bring gear in a backpack or similar (not plastic bags). Please note: Students should have their own copy of the excursion worksheet, a clipboard and pencil.

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 - no wheelchair access

Not wheelchair-accessible