Exploring Rural and Urban Change – Year 12 Geography Excursion

Our Stage 6 Geography students recently undertook a full-day fieldwork excursion to Parramatta and Berry as part of their study of rural and urban places. The excursion provided an opportunity for students to apply their classroom learning to real-world environments and to collect primary data that will inform their case study investigations and assessment task. Experiences like this highlight the importance of Geography as a subject that helps students understand how places change, how people interact with environments, and how communities can plan for a more sustainable future.

The day began in Parramatta, where students explored Sydney’s rapidly developing “second CBD”. Through observations, environmental quality surveys and field sketches, students investigated how urban renewal, high-density development and transport infrastructure are shaping the character and sustainability of the city. Walking through Parramatta Square and along the Parramatta River, students examined the ways planners are responding to challenges such as population growth, transport demand and environmental pressures.

After completing their urban investigations, students travelled south to Berry, a small rural town on the NSW South Coast. Here, students examined how the town has evolved from its agricultural roots into a popular tourism destination. By mapping land uses and observing local businesses, students investigated the economic role of tourism and how the town maintains its strong community identity and heritage character, including taste testing the famous Berry Doughnuts. Students also considered the impact of infrastructure projects, such as the Berry Bypass, on local traffic patterns and the economy.

The excursion will support students as they complete a comparative fieldwork report evaluating the changes, challenges and sustainability strategies affecting both locations.

A big thank you to the students for their enthusiasm and engagement throughout the day.

Mr Greg Sciortino – Year 9 Coordinator/HSIE Teacher