- Travel to Cairns
- Mangrove Boardwalk visit Learn about the unique, tropical mangroves and saltmarshes of Australia as you move along the boardwalk. Discover the incredible abundance of wildlife, learn the purpose of the mangroves and other tidal wetland systems, and see if you can spot the 11 different mangrove species.
- Cairns Aquarium visit including Living Coral Biobank Tour Discover the natural wonders of The Great Barrier Reef, The Wet Tropics, The Gulf Savannah and Cape York regions as you explore the only aquarium in the world dedicated exclusively to the habitats and species of tropical North Queensland. Take a look behind the scenes at the Coral Biobank, Australia's only facility to house all 400 coral species from the Great Barrier Reef. Here, learn about the conservation program and how coral can be transplanted back on the reef to restore damaged areas.
STEM: Cairns
Secondary School: Ecology, Conservation & Sustainability
Tropical Far North Queensland is the only place in the world where two natural World Heritage sites collide — the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, creating a unique opportunity for students to delve into areas of ecology, sustainability and conservation.
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https://worldstrides.com.au/itineraries/stem-tour-cairns
STEM: Cairns
Secondary School: Ecology, Conservation & Sustainability
Tropical Far North Queensland is the only place in the world where two natural World Heritage sites collide — the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, creating a unique opportunity for students to delve into areas of ecology, sustainability and conservation.
Request Info Request Quote5 Days
Learning areas
EcologySustainabilityConservation
Highlights
Mangrove Boardwalk visitReef Cruise with Marine BiologistTerrestrial Invertebrate Survey Techniques workshopCrocodile Park Rainforest Restoration ProjectDaintree Rainforest Observatory visitCairns Aquarium visit including Living Coral Biobank TourRainforest SpotlightingDaintree Discovery Centre guided visitDaintree Organic Orchard visitCairns Aquarium guided visit
Your Adventure
- Moore Reef Marine Biology Cruise Linked to the Australian Curriculum, this in-depth educational program delves into reef ecology, climate change, marine life identification and predators such as the crown of thorns starfish. During a 45-minute guided snorkel safari, complete a ‘Rapid Monitoring Survey’ to record health observations on aspects of the reef. Identify marine creatures, analyse coral health, and look for signs of environmental impacts. Data collected is then input directly to the ‘Eye on the Reef’ program run by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
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Daintree Rainforest visit
Terrestrial Invertebrate Survey Techniques workshop
Get an introduction to how scientists collect and identify insects for research purposes. Participate in discussions and hands-on experiences of common terrestrial insect collecting methods including sweep netting, beating, malaise traps, tullgren funnels, as well as preservation techniques and the use of keys and reference material for identification. -
Daintree Rainforest Observatory visit
Canopy Crane experience
Located at the Daintree Rainforest Observatory, the canopy crane is the first to be installed in an Australian rainforest. Sitting 47 metres tall with a radius of 55 metres, the crane provides comprehensive access to 1 hectare of rainforest, allowing scientists to analyse processes occurring and the responses of this ecosystem to human induced climate change. - Rainforest Spotlighting With the help of a scientist, investigate what invertebrates are attracted to different light sources in different locations of the rainforest, by examining light sheets throughout the night. Armed with torches, walk around and into the rainforest, searching for insects, other invertebrates and mammals. Using a harp trap, see what bats are present in the rainforest, relax by the bonfire and enjoy some star-gazing.
- Crocodile Park Rainforest Restoration Project Explore the banks of Tin Creek with an experienced wildlife keeper and learn about its significance to local ecosystems whilst taking part in tree planting activities. As you explore, witness large crocodiles being fed, meet gorgeous koalas, and get up close to feed wallabies, kangaroos and quolls – and cruise the wetlands by boat to spot crocodiles, birds and other wildlife.
- Daintree Discovery Centre guided visit Discover the biology, ecology and antiquity of the forest environment. Experience the 23-metre high Daintree Rainforest Canopy Tower, the 10m high aerial walkway and over 900m of elevated rainforest boardwalks.
- Daintree Organic Orchard visit Learn how ice cream is made on site using organically grown and farmed exotic fruit, from trees that are naturally irrigated by mother nature. See the sustainable practices that are implemented at every stage of ice cream production, as the preservation of the pristine rainforest ecosystem and it's inhabitants is top priority at this orchard. Enjoy a scoop (or two!) of delicious ice cream as you marvel at the important work being done here.
- Cairns Aquarium guided visit Follow the journey of a raindrop as it descends from the mountain ranges, joins creeks, streams and flooded billabongs, travels through the rainforest, past the mangroves, through the Great Barrier Reef and finally into the depths of the Coral Sea. This interactive session is held at the Terrestrial and Marine touch tank focusing on these 9 habitats.
- Depart Cairns Bid farewell to Cairns and begin your journey home.
