Program overview
This engaging Early Stage 1 program explores Dharug knowledge, culture and connection to Country while developing a deeper understanding of the natural environment around Brewongle. Students discover the importance of totems, identify traditional bush foods and medicines, and build a Gunyah using natural materials as they follow the story of two Dharug boys, Eddy and Barrugin. They then retrace their journey through nature mapping, using materials from Country to represent their route and record the natural features they encounter.
Human, Society and its Environment K-6 Syllabus (2024)
Outcomes
- HSE-ACH-01 identifies ways that Aboriginal Peoples connect with Country, Culture and Community
Content
People are connected to places
Aboriginal Peoples are the Traditional Custodians of Country
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Describe natural features of land, water and sky Country by engaging with Aboriginal Dreaming Stories and Languages
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Identify specific terms Aboriginal Peoples may use to refer to the Country they connect to
Places can be located and described using geographical information
- Recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples connect to the features of Country or Place in a variety of ways
| 1 |
Dharug totems Students develop an understanding of how Dharug people care for and connect to Country and places through totems. They learn about the needs of a blue tongue lizard and make a home for one using natural materials. |
| 2 |
Bush resource walk and gunyah building Students trace the steps of Eddy and Barrugin, two Dharug boys who ran away from their camp across the river. Students search for bush medicine and food, and build a shelter called a Gunyah. |
| 3 |
Nature maps Students learn to map a route by retracing the footsteps of Eddy and Barrugin. They use sticks, leaves and other objects to create a nature map of their journey and record the natural features of the land around Brewongle. |
| Activity social story | |
|
Sample of a 1 group program For multiple groups/classes, the same activities are run on an alternating schedule |
|
| 9:45 |
Welcome to Brewongle Safety briefing |
| 10:00 |
RECESS Students read “Eddy the Dharug Boy” under the wisdom tree |
| 10:25 |
Dharug totems (Nature play area) |
| 11:15 |
Bush resource walk & gunyah building (Wattungle to Lookout) |
| 12:05 | LUNCH |
| 12:35 |
Nature maps (Wisdom Tree to Bug Pits) |
| 1:25 | Reflection of activities / wrap up / toilets |
| 2:00 | Farewell |
There is no worksheet for this program
Suggested pre-excursion activities
The following books were written by local Dharug women and are suitable stories to read with students to support this excursion. These books incorporate real Indigenous culture and language in engaging and beautiful stories.
- Baby Business by Jasmine Seymour
- Cooee Mittigar by Jasmine Seymour and Leanne Mulgo Watson
- The Lost Girl by Amberlin Kwaymullina and Leanne Tobin
These texts can be borrowed from Brewongle EEC. Please contact us to organise.
| Location | Brewongle Environmental Education Centre, Sackville North |
| Transport |
Buses are booked by the visiting school. A map to the bus parking will be sent with the schools confirmation email. Please ensure you print the map and give to the bus driver the morning of the excursion. |
| Program costs | Program costs |
| Student numbers |
Maximum student numbers are 30 students per class - up to 3 classes per day No minimum student numbers (instead possible minimum costs) |
| Supporting teachers and staff | Minimum requirement is one teacher per attending class |
| Program start and finish times |
Brewongle arrival time is 9:45 am - departure time is 2 pm * discuss prior to your visit if you require alternate times |
| Medical and welfare notifications |
Using the Brewongle medical and welfare form (sent with the confirmation email), inform Brewongle staff of any medical conditions or special requirements prior to the visit This program can be adapted for teachers and students with specific mobility requirements |
| Adverse weather |
Visit our visitor information page to view our weather trigger points for program changes On days where the weather is unsuitable, a Brewongle staff member will contact the organising teacher to discuss alternative arrangements |
| Booking and cancellation policy requirements |
Brewongle booking and cancellation policy Student attendance numbers confirmed 7 days prior to visit Cancellation fees may apply |
| Inclusive learning support | Visit our inclusive education website for further excursion support materials |
Booking enquiries
Get in touch to ask a question, plan a visit or find out more about what we offer
Brewongle EEC provides inclusive learning support through accessible, hands-on, and differentiated programs that cater to diverse learning needs, ensuring all learners can engage meaningfully with curriculum-based experiences in nature.