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School excursion

Biophysical interactions at Wattamolla

Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography, Royal National Park

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Info for teachers

Everything you need to know about Biophysical interactions at Wattamolla.

Program outline

  • Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety talk
  • Observe and discuss development of the carpark and surf club area
  • Morning tea and toilet break 
  • Conduct a field sketch of the site
  • Measure and compare abiotic factors of fore dune and hind dune
  • Dip-net in a freshwater creek to determine ecosystem health
  • Predict the influence of sea level rise on the freshwater environment
  • Examine physical processes shaping the landscape
  • Return walk to shaded area for lunch
  • Conduct a vegetation transect along a dune
  • Assess current management strategies through a role-play scenario
  • Farewell and depart on bus

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.

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    Wattamolla picnic area is in the eastern precinct of Royal National Park. To get there:

    From Audley:

    • Drive across Audley Weir and continue along Sir Bertram Stevens Drive for approximately 11km
    • Turn left onto Wattamolla Road, 250m past Bundeena Drive, and follow to Wattamolla picnic area.

    From Waterfall:

    • Follow McKell Avenue to the end
    • Turn left onto Sir Bertram Stevens Drive and continue for approximately 9km
    • Turn right onto Wattamolla Road and follow to Wattamolla picnic area

    Road quality

    • Sealed roads

    Vehicle access

    • 2WD vehicles

    Weather restrictions

    • All weather

    Parking

    Parking is available.

    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

    There is no wheelchair access available. If you have someone with special needs, please let us know in advance so that we can plan accordingly.

    Biophysical interactions at Wattamolla Enquire now

    Park info

    • in Royal National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and South Coast regions

    • Royal National Park is open 7am to 8.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

    • Park entry fees:

      $12 per vehicle per day. Payment options include Audley Visitor Centre, vehicle entry stations, pay machines and the Park’nPay app.

      Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).

      Buy annual pass

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