Students learning on an Aboriginal site

Aboriginal Peoples and Country

HSIE

Students listening to an Aboriginal resources talk
Bushland

Program

Northern Sydney is home to some of the most significant Aboriginal rock engraving sites in the world. These ancient artworks offer a powerful connection to one of the oldest living cultures on Earth.

Throughout the day, students will learn about the local Aboriginal Peoples and visit special cultural sites that are thousands of years old, gaining a deeper understanding of their history, stories, and enduring connection to Country.

Learning intentions

Students are learning about:

Key information

Learning activities

Bush resources talk

Students will explore a variety of bush resources, including food, tools and weapons. They will learn about how Aboriginal Peoples traditionally utilise the land to create tools and weapons and examine the innovative methods employed to shape and use natural materials.

At West Head, this will be presented by Uncle Laurie Bimson, a descendant of Bungaree, the leader of the local clan at the time of European arrival.

Cultural sites visit

Students will explore various important cultural and historical sites hidden within our local area. As part of the experience, they’ll visit a special Aboriginal engraving site, where they’ll learn how these sites tell the stories of Country and how they offer a window into the lives and beliefs of the local Aboriginal Peoples.

Songlines: A Cultural exchange activity

In this fun activity, students will learn how Aboriginal peoples walk Country, share stories, and trade respectfully between Nations. This activity aims to honour the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal Nations in NSW and provide an engaging educational experience.

Suggested timetable

Time Classes A & B Classes C & D
10.00am Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day
10.10am Morning tea
10.30am Bush resources talk Cultural sites visit
11.30am Cultural sites visit Bush resources talk
12.30pm Lunch
1.00pm Cultural exchange activity
2.00pm Conclusion and depart

* Please call the centre if you have more than 4 classes.

Syllabus outcomes

HSIE Syllabus (2024)

  • HS2-ACH-01 describes Aboriginal Peoples’ obligations to Country, Culture and Community

Content

Aboriginal Peoples use and care for the environment sustainably
  • Identify and use appropriate terminology when sharing Knowledges about Country
  • Describe how Aboriginal Peoples sustainably use the resources of Country
People have responsibility to care for Australia's environments
  • Investigate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander food practices that are sustainable
Aboriginal Peoples have the oldest living continuous Cultures in the world
  • Examine how Aboriginal Peoples have engaged in Cultural exchange and trade across NSW
  • Examine NSW sites of archaeological evidence of the oldest living continuous Cultures in the world

Cost and details

Bus access map

Map for access to venue will be sent with the confirmation.

Please ensure you print a copy and provide it to the bus driver on the morning of the excursion.

Cost

2025 DoE $20 per student - GST free

2025 Non-gov school cost $25 per student - GST free, minimum charge $750 per class

NOTE:  National Parks entry is $1.10 per student in addition

Class numbers and size

Up to 4 classes

Max. 30 students per class

Please contact the centre if you have more than 4 classes.

Risk assessments A complete risk assessment will be sent upon confirmation.
What to bring

Backpack, medication, low-waste food, water bottle, sunblock, raincoat, hat, sturdy shoes.

Students wear sports uniform.

Adverse weather On days where the weather is unsuitable (see risk assessment), a Gibberagong staff member will contact the organising teacher to discuss alternative arrangements. Please check your bus company’s cancellation policy.
Medical notifications Notify Gibberagong EEC by completing and returning the medical form before the excursion. This form will be sent out upon confirmation of booking.

Excursion locations