~ Beaches of the Bunurong Coast ~
Introduction to the area of study
- The beaches of the Bunurong Coast near Inverloch are ideal for school groups as they are sheltered, easily accessible from parking areas and have picnic and toilet facilities close by.
- Along with the rock platforms, the beaches here offer many opportunities to explore this coastal area, study a variety of ecosystems and gain an insight into what lives in the ocean beyond the low tide areas.
- The beach is an ideal area to pursue disciplined-based learning such as science, SOSE, art and mathematics together with physical, personal and social learning through team work and games.
Possible aims for the visit
- Identify features of a particular marine animal, its habitat and requirements by designing an environmental sand castle
- Study behaviours of specific species such as birds on the beach
- Observe the variety of material that is washed up on the beach
- Identify what makes up sand on the beach
- Study a sand dune ecosystem
- Identify the effects of climatic changes on the beach and surrounding areas
- Identify how human activity affects the beach
- Build a sculpture using sand and other material found on the beach
- Observe wave patterns and design simple structures to deflect waves
- Observe the range of colours on the beach and rock platform
- Play games that have a marine/environmental theme
Work sheets are available from Bunurong Coast Education for all the activities listed above.
Time required
Depending on your focus and the year level involved, these activities would easily fill a day excursion particularly if you also intended to study the rock platform and visit the Shell Museum at the Bunurong Environment Centre, Inverloch.
Equipment required
Students should wear protection from the sun and also sturdy shoes if they are also going to go rockpooling.
Depending on activities planned, students may also need small buckets and spades.
Recommended resources
- Environmental Activities around Inverloch - SGCS, $5
- Beachcombing Guide for South Gippsland Coast Areas - leaflet, $1
- Shells of the Inverloch Area - leaflet, $1
- Rockpooling Around the Bunurong - Eagger & Rowe, $6
- Our Coast - CD, $10
These resources are all available from the Bunurong Environment Centre, Inverloch.
Remember!
Teachers and students are reminded that activities involving the collection or removal of any material, including animals, plants, shells, rocks, sand or seaweed, are not permitted within the Bunurong Marine National Park.
