If you look at a map of South-Eastern NSW, you realise that despite Sydney’s immense sprawl, that we are fortunate to have four large world-renowned national parks ringing the city. In this course we look at the geography of these four national parks, their First Nations history, the process of declaring them national parks, and their present day uses and challenges.

DELIVERY MODE

• Face to face

SUGGESTED READING

• NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, List of national parks

COURSE OUTLINE

• An introductory overview of the national parks – their size, creation, flora, and fauna
• World Heritage status for Blue Mountains / Wollemi
• First Nations history, especially for Blue Mountains and Ku-ring-gai parks
• Lobbying and parliamentary action to make these areas into national parks
• A profile of each park, including highlights, history, changes over time, walks and boating activities
• Usage of the four National Parks– visitor numbers, key walks, bushfire management, threats to their environment, what the future may hold.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Expand their knowledge and appreciation of the national parks featured;
2. Appreciate the challenges of maintaining and protecting national parks; and
3. Have a better appreciation of the natural beauty and highlights of each park.