School excursion

Gondwanan rainforests: An ecosystem at risk

Dorrigo National Park

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Overview

Gondwanan Rainforests is a Stage 6 (Year 12) Geography school excursion in Dorrigo National Park for students studying Ecosystems and Global Biodiversity. There is a 1h 30m specialised ranger presentation, followed by a 2h 30m guided walk.

Read more about Gondwanan rainforests: An ecosystem at risk

On this excursion students will understand why the World Heritage-listed Gondwanan rainforests of Dorrigo National Park are globally significant and protect a range of unique biogeographical characteristics. These include some of the oldest songbirds and flowering plants on Earth.

Students will examine the interaction between topography, aspect, climate and spatial distribution of rainforest across the park. They'll apply this information to understand the critical role of the Great Eastern Escarpment as a moist refuge for rainforest across millions of years.

Students will assess a range of key anthropogenic threats to rainforest ecosystem functionality. These include wildfire and climate warming, with particular reference to endemic threatened animal life present in the park.

NPWS management responses to wildfire and visitor engagement are covered in detail. Students will learn about new and emerging approaches to remote firefighting and the use of innovative wildlife sculptures within the park.

Students will also collect wind speed, temperature and humidity data from above and below the canopy, and discuss the role of the canopy layer in maintaining a moist microclimate.

The ranger-guided walk visits Crystal Shower Falls where students cross a high suspension bridge to walk behind the falls (subject to rainfall-related track closures).

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

Stage Stage 6 (Years 11-12)
Learning area Geography
Student outcomes

GE-12-01. Analyses rural and urban places, ecosystems, global biodiversity and economic activity, for their characteristics, spatial patterns, interactions, and nature and extent of change over time

GE-12-02. Analyses geographical processes and influences, at a range of scales, that form and transform places and environments

GE-12-04. Evaluates responses and management strategies, at a range of scales, for sustainability

GE-12-07. Selects and applies geographical inquiry skills and tools, including spatial technologies, fieldwork and ethical practices, to investigate places and environments
Objectives

Students will:

  • Observe a World Heritage-listed rainforest ecosystem, its geographical features, spatial extent, topography and biophysical characteristics
  • Understand the global significance, biogeographical and evolutionary uniqueness of the Gondwanan rainforests present at the site
  • Assess current and future threats to the rainforest ecosystem with an emphasis on wildfire and climate change impacts
  • Evaluate a range of available management strategies for mitigating these threats, particularly with regard to fire
  • Use topographic maps, GIS imaging, graphs, statistics, photographs and limited fieldwork to analyse and interpret climate, vegetation and other biogeographical data.

Excursion details

Availability
Guided. Available on request year round, subject to ranger availability.
Where
Dorrigo Rainforest Centre, Dorrigo National Park
Duration
4hrs
Grading
Easy. Includes a 4.6km guided walk on a sealed track with sections of uphill gentle gradient. Some steps near the falls.
Price

$370 per group (includes GST). Maximum 30 students per group. For groups over 30 conditions apply.

Accessibility
Medium
Meeting point
Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.
Equipment
provided
Yes. Kestrel Weather meter available.
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-6-geography-gondwanan-rainforests-ecosystem-at-risk-dorrigo-national-park/local-alerts

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Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about Gondwanan rainforests: An ecosystem at risk.

Program outline

  • Arrive Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and meet ranger/s
  • Ranger/s will outline schedule for the day, provide acknowledgement of Country and give a safety briefing
  • Short toilet break for students
  • 1h 30min ranger presentation and discussion in theatrette space, with a break to view the Skywalk
  • 2h 30min ranger-guided walk along Wonga Walk, via Walk with the Birds platform walk to Crystal Shower Falls
  • Return to the rainforest centre for bus departure (option to meet bus at The Glade picnic area to save time and legs).

Getting there and parking

Dorrigo Rainforest Centre is in the western precinct of Dorrigo National Park. To get there:

From Armidale:

  • Drive east along the Waterfall Way for approximately 90 minutes
  • Turn left into Dome Road approximately 2km after you pass through Dorrigo.

From Coffs Harbour:

  • Travel south along the Pacific Highway
  • After crossing the Bellinger River, take the Waterfall Way exit to Dorrigo via Bellingen
  • Turn right at Dome Road and continue for approximately 1.6km to the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.

Road quality

  • Sealed roads

Vehicle access

  • 2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

  • All weather

Parking

Bus and car parking is available in a large carpark at Dorrigo Rainforest Centre, including 2 accessible parking spaces. Additional parking is available at The Glade picnic area, 1km south along Lyrebird Lane.

What to bring

The climate at Dorrigo National Park can be unpredictable, so please be prepared for cold weather by ensuring that all students have a jumper and a raincoat. Fully enclosed shoes, long pants and layers are recommended. Students should bring low-waste lunch and water and bring insect repellent in warmer months.

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

Assistance may be required to access this area. There are wide sealed tracks with gentle-medium sloping sections.

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