School excursion

Rainforest interactions

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

Exploring Minnamurra Rainforest, Budderoo National Park. Photo: David Finnegan

Overview

Rainforest interactions is a Stage 6 (Years 11-12) school excursion that focuses on geography as a learning area. Students will undertake a geographical investigation of the biophysical processes and their interactions at Minnamurra Rainforest.

Read more about Rainforest interactions

Students will observe first-hand the biophysical processes that influence the rainforest environment in Budderoo National Park. We'll discuss the 4 spheres that shape and impact this landscape. Through discussion, students will learn how an understanding of these factors is needed for sustainable management.

Students will undertake a scientific investigation to determine biotic and abiotic factors here. They’ll hone their data collecting skills and use their surveying and mapping skills to form a comprehensive audit of the site and the factors impacting it.

Students will engage in fieldwork to measure biotic and abiotic factors, use sampling techniques to identify vegetation structure, record and assess community diversity and examine human impacts. Students will interpret maps, photographs, satellite imagery, graphs and statistics to support their inquiry.

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	P1. Differentiates between spatial and ecological dimensions in the study of geography P2. Describes the interactions between the four components which define the biophysical environment. P3. Explains how a specific environment functions in terms of biophysical factors. P8. Selects, organises and analyses relevant geographical information from a variety of sources. P9. Uses maps, graphs and statistics, photographs and fieldwork to conduct geographical inquiries. P10. Applies mathematical ideas and techniques to analyse geographical data P12. Communicates geographical information, ideas and issues using appropriate written and/or cartographic and graphic forms.
Objectives	Students will: Identify geographic landforms Identify biophysical processes and their interactions at Minnamurra Rainforest Use field techniques to measure and collect biophysical data Describe the geographical processes that form and transform the rainforest Explain how current management strategies are contributing to the sustainable use of the rainforest Use GPS devices to record features and location Observe and record evidence of erosion, weathering and soil compaction.

Excursion details

When: Weekdays during school terms.
Availability: Guided. Available on request. Different length programs are available on consultation.
Where: Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, Budderoo National Park
Duration: 2-5 hr
Grading: Easy. Fieldwork will take place beside a river along the rainforest path.
Price: Minimum $550 per group for up to 25 students, $22 per student (includes GST).
Accessibility: No wheelchair access
Meeting point: Minnamurra Rainforest Centre
Equipment provided: Yes. Worksheet masters, pre-activity and post-activity resources. 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.

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-rainforest-interactions-budderoo-national-park/local-alerts

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - Minnamurra Rainforest Centre
02 4236 0469
discovery.scr@environment.nsw.gov.au
Budderoo National Park, Minnamurra Falls Road (Tourist Drive No.9), via Jamberoo NSW 2533

Park info

in Budderoo National Park in the South Coast and Country NSW regions
Budderoo National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger. The park gates at Minnamurra Rainforest Centre open at 9am and close at 5pm every day.
Park entry fees:
$12 per vehicle per day only in the Minnamurra Rainforest area. Bus or taxi: $4.40 per adult and $2.20 per child.
Buy annual pass (//pass.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/).

See more visitor info

Info for teachers

All the practical information you need to know about Rainforest interactions.

Program outline

Welcome, acknowledgement of Country and safety briefing
Morning tea and toilet break
Classroom presentation
Fieldwork to measure abiotic and biotic factors
Complete a vegetation transect
Group discussion and question time
Guided interpretive walk through rainforest
Optional self-guided walk to waterfall (teacher to lead)
Lunch
Farewell and depart on bus

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

Rainforest interactions factsheet

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.