Field Study School Excursions - Sydney - Geography - Ecosystems and Global Biodiversity

Yr 12 Geography
Ecosystems and Global Biodiversity

Available for delivery from Term 4 2024

Intertidal Wetland
Botany Bay, Kurnell

Students investigate natural elements of this intertidal wetland to understand the distribution of mangroves and seagrass on a global, national and local scale. Primary data using a variety of field equipment will be collected to quantify the nature of its biodiversity. Changes overtime at Botany Bay offers case studies that highlight vulnerability, resilience and ecological disturbance. Qualitative data from student observations facilitates an understanding of government responses and management strategies for maintaining ecosystem functioning with a focus on sustainability and the role of contemporary research. A variety of secondary data assists students in meeting their fieldwork requirements at this location.

Temperate pyric sclerophyll forests and woodlands
Bantry Bay, Forestville

Students explore the dramatic landscape of Garigal National Park to investigate the biophysical characteristics of this sclerophyll forest and appreciate the nature of its biodiversity. In order to gain an appreciation of the complexity of its vegetation a profile is constructed by examining significant locations within the ecosystem to identify native flora and collect primary data about the physical requirements that enable the forest to function. Garigal National Park is surrounded by urban residential and commercial areas. This offers an opportunity to understand the impacts, management and response strategies associated with land clearing, invasive species encroachment, erosion and hazard reduction burns. Also explored is current and emerging research into natural and anthropogenic influences on the ecosystem’s vulnerability and resilience.

Rainforest
Mt Keira, Wollongong

Students visit a rare Australian sub-tropical rainforest ecosystem within the Greater Sydney region. Using site specific flora and fauna identification keys as well as a variety of field equipment they investigate the nature of this rainforest’s biodiversity and the physical characteristics that facilitate it’s functioning. Historically the rainforest of the Illawarra area extended along the flat coastal plain. Today it remains in protected patches along the base of the Illawarra escarpment. This presents an opportunity to learn about vulnerability, resilience and ecological disturbance as a result of human-induced modifications on a local scale. Supported by secondary data including maps, aerial photos and historical photos students examine current management strategies and the role of contemporary research in preserving the remaining rainforest of the Illawarra.