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School excursion

Mountain pygmy-possum

Stage 6 (Years 11-12), Geography, Thredbo-Perisher area in Kosciuszko National Park

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Info for teachers

Everything you need to know about Mountain pygmy-possum.

Program outline

  • Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing 
  • Explore the spatial dimensions of the area and boulder fields
  • Use fieldwork equipment to measure abiotic conditions
  • Observe the relationships between boulders, mountain pygmy-possums and seasonal changes
  • Share local rangers’ experiences of researching mountain pygmy-possums to understand and protect them
  • Discuss human impacts and management strategies
  • Analyse geographical data

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. 

A backpack is essential for carrying all essential clothing – beanie, extra jumper and wet weather gear; as well as water bottle, clip board, pens and pencils.

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.

Getting there and parking

Charlotte Pass Village is in the Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there from Jindabyne:

  • Leave Jindabyne on Kosciuszko Road and follow for around 33km to Perisher Valley
  • Charlotte Pass is just 8km beyond Perisher on Kosciuszko Road

Parking

Carpark is available in summer only.

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.

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Park info

  • in the Thredbo-Perisher area of Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains region
  • The Thredbo-Perisher area is open all year, but some roads and trails may close due to weather conditions or park management issues. Kosciuszko Road is closed between Perisher and Charlotte Pass in winter (June to October long weekends).

  • Park entry fees apply on Alpine Way and Kosciuszko Road

    Winter (June to October long weekends): $29 per vehicle per day (24hrs from purchase); motorcycles $12; bus passengers $11.45 per adult, $3.60 per child per day. Find out more about the winter entry surcharge.

    Rest of Year: $17 per vehicle per day (24hrs); motorcycles $7; bus passengers $6.60 per adult, $2.20 per child per day.

    Passes: Day passes, multi-day passes and annual All Parks Pass available from NPWS visitor centres, local agents and operating vehicle entry stations. Single and Multi-Day passes are also available via the Park'nPay app. Short Breaks Pass: $68 for 5 days park entry at price of 4 days (not valid winter).

    Read our Annual Pass FAQs for information.

    Buy annual pass