Program overview
This is an authentic and rich first hand investigation on the population dynamics between two animals found locally - one native and one feral. Students investigate the inquiry question through studying the interactions of the Spotted-Tailed Quoll (Dasyurus maculatus) and Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes).
Pre and post visit as well as an assessment task can contribute to a 9hr depth study task.
Biology 11-12 Syllabus (2025)
Evolution and ecosystems
Ecosystem dynamics
Outcomes
- BI-11-03 analyses the relationships between organisms and their environment using the theory of evolution by natural selection
- BI-11WS-03 conducts scientific investigations to collect data and information
- BI-11WS-04 selects and processes qualitative and quantitative data and information
- BI-11WS-05 analyses and evaluates primary and secondary data and information
- BI-11WS-07 communicates scientific arguments using evidence, scientific language and terminology for a specific audience
Content
- Conduct a practical investigation to collect and analyse abiotic and biotic data, to discuss the features of an ecosystem
- Compare abiotic data from a variety of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems
- Explain how abiotic and biotic factors influence the abundance, distribution and diversity of species in an ecosystem
- Compare sampling techniques to estimate distribution and abundance of organisms
- Conduct a practical investigation to examine the distribution and abundance of a plant or animal using belt transect, line transect or quadrat sampling techniques
- Evaluate the validity, reliability and accuracy of ecological sampling data when drawing conclusions about ecosystem dynamics
| 1 |
Abiotic components of the ecosystem Students use scientific field testing equipment to assess various abiotic parameters of the local ecosystem. |
| 2 |
Vegetation transect and habitat assessment Students use our site-specific dichotomous key iBook to identify plant species and graph them along a transect. Students conduct a habitat assessment of the local ecosystem. |
| 3 |
Nest box camera survey Students use a map and GPS to navigate to a selection of our species-specific nest boxes. They then use innovative remote cameras to view inside nest boxes and record use or evidence of use. |
| 4 |
Optional additional activities (time permitting) - Camera traps and human impacts Students view, analyse and record footage from our wildlife camera traps and conduct a human impacts assessment of the bush. |
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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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| 9:30 |
Welcome to Brewongle Safety briefing |
| 9:45 | Abiotic components of the ecosystem |
| 10:45 | RECESS |
| 11:00 | Nest box camera survey |
| 12:00 | Vegetation transect and habitat assessment |
| 1:00 | LUNCH |
| 1:30 | Reflection of activities / Wrap up / Toilets |
| 2:00 | Farewell |
Pre- and post-excursion lessons are available on the excursion Google site
Click image below to access the site. Please ensure students have completed the pre-excursion tasks on this site before their excursion at Brewongle EEC.
| 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 9:30 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.