Learning activities

Map study

Students should have answered the questions on the topographic map at school. They will orient themselves to the area by revising the answers, particularly about distance and vertical drop in the upcoming walk.

3D map

Students view the 3D map of the area and compare it to the topographic map. They will identify the plateau and flooded river valleys caused by the process of erosion

Aboriginal histories and cultures

The students will view a replica Aboriginal engraving to learn about the value and management of cultural sites to the traditional owners of the area.

Field sketch and cross-section

The students will visit a lookout with views over the landscape. There they will complete a field study sketch and cross-section to identify the landforms and describe the biophysical processes that shaped this area.

Geographical tools

Students will use a range of geographical tools to investigate the biophysical features of an area. This will include measuring air temperature, humidity, light, aspect, gradient, soil temperature and pH.

Investigation of fire management

Students will learn about how different stakeholders hold differing views on how fire should be managed in the National Park.

They will also use geographical tools to measure and compare the fire hazard at two different sites

Suggested timetable

Time	Class A, B	Class C, D
10.00am	Acknowledgement of Country, Welcome, Overview of the day Map study
10.10am	Give our worksheets, clipboards and fieldwork backpacks
10.30am	3D Map Engravings	Engravings 3D Map
10.50am	Morning Tea
11.30am	Lookout Formation of landscape Field sketch Cross section	Fire site 1 Perspectives Measurements
11.50am	Fire site 1 Perspectives Measurements	Lookout Formation of landscape Field sketch Cross section
12.10pm	Fieldwork testing	Fieldwork testing
12.30pm	Walking to Bobbin Head with Fire site 2	Walking to Bobbin Head with Fire site 2
1.30pm	Lunch
2.00pm	Depart

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

Syllabus outcomes

Geography 7-10 Syllabus (2024)

Outcomes

• Explains how the diverse features and characteristics of a range of places and environments change over time GE5-DFC-01
• Analyses the processes and interactions that transform people, places and environments GE5-PRI-01
• Accounts for the perspectives of people and organisations on a range of geographical opportunities and challenges GE5-PER-01
• Assesses different approaches to the management and protection of places and environments GE5-MAN-01
• Analyses how Aboriginal Peoples’ Custodianship of Country supports environmental management and enhances Community wellbeing GE5-APC-01
• Applies and evaluates a range of geographical tools to acquire and process geographical information GE5-TAP-01
• Selects and applies concepts and terminology to communicate geographical information for a range of purposes, audiences and contexts GE5-COM-01

Content

Students are learning about:

• The geographical processes that have changed this area over time
• How we can use geographical tools to measure the biophysical processes that exist in this environment
• How Kalkari Discovery Centre, Birrawanna Track and Bobbin are managed and protected
• The different perspectives of people and organisations on fire management in the National Park
• How bushfire risk can be measured
• How Aboriginal Peoples’ Custodianship of Country supports environmental management here?

Geographical tools

Maps (M) - topographic maps to identify direction, scale and distance, grid reference, altitude, contour lines, gradient and a cross-section

Fieldwork (F) - observing, measuring, collecting and recording and communicating data, use of fieldwork instruments

Visual Representation (VR) - annotated diagrams, field sketches

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 to the bus driver on the morning of the excursion.
Cost	2026 DoE $20 per student - GST free 2026 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 - GST free
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, mask. 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.