Program overview
Discover the dynamic Hawkesbury River landscape through hands-on fieldwork exploring its natural features, geomorphic processes, vegetation and human impacts. Stage 4 students investigate erosion, topography and water infiltration in the field while developing a deeper understanding of how landscapes and landforms are shaped and managed. This excursion also offers a unique opportunity to learn about Aboriginal Peoples’ connection to Country and explore the role of traditional fire management through an engaging fire-making experience.
Geography 7–10 Syllabus (2024)
Landscapes and landforms
Outcomes
- GE4-PRI-01 explains the processes and interactions that change people, places and environments
- GE4-APC-01 explains Aboriginal Peoples’ Custodianship, care and management of Country
- GE4-TAP-01 selects and uses geographical tools to acquire and process geographical information
Content
Dynamic landscapes and landforms
- Location and features of a variety of landscapes and landforms
- Geomorphic processes of tectonic activity, weathering, erosion and deposition that create and shape landscapes and landforms
- Human impacts that modify landscapes and landforms
The value and protection of landscapes and landforms
- Environmental, economic, recreational and cultural value of landscapes and landforms
- Protection of landscapes and landforms on various scales
- Knowledges and Practices used by Aboriginal Peoples to manage and care for Country
| 1 |
Features of the Hawkesbury River and geomorphic processes Overlooking the Hawkesbury River at our lookout classroom, students learn about its environmental, economic, recreational and cultural significance before completing a field sketch showing important features. They then walk to our cave where they observe the geomorphic processes that have shaped the Hawkesbury River landscape. |
| 2 |
The importance of vegetation to the Hawkesbury River landscape Students conduct fieldwork tests in a quadrat on vegetation and topography to develop their understanding of the important role vegetation plays in reducing erosion and protecting the Hawkesbury River landscape. |
| 3 |
Human impacts that modify landscapes and landforms Students take part in an interactive walk observing human impacts at Brewongle. They assess the impact of walking tracks, measure track erosion and compare water infiltration on walking tracks to well vegetated areas in the bush. |
| 4 |
Traditional fire-making Explore how fire is used by Aboriginal Peoples to manage and care for Country and the role it plays in protecting river landscapes. Attempt to start a fire in small groups using traditional fire-making equipment. |
| Activity social story coming soon! | |
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Sample of a 1 group program For multiple groups/classes, the same activities are run on an alternating schedule |
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| 9:45 |
Welcome to Brewongle Safety briefing |
| 10:00 | Features of the Hawkesbury River and geomorphic processes |
| 10:40 | RECESS |
| 11:10 | The importance of vegetation to the Hawkesbury River landscape |
| 11:50 | Human impacts that modify landscapes and landforms |
| 12:30 | LUNCH |
| 1:00 | Traditional fire-making |
| 1:50 | Reflection of activities / Wrap up / Toilets |
| 2:00 | Farewell |
| 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 6 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.