VCE Geography Tour to Tropical North Queensland

VCE Geography Students Examine Tourism’s Impact in Tropical North Queensland

Peninsula Grammar’s VCE Geography students recently travelled to Cairns, immersing themselves in the study of sustainable tourism across Tropical North Queensland. The five-day program offered participants the chance to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations as they explored the complex impacts of tourism on the region’s natural and cultural landscapes.

A central focus of the trip was the Great Barrier Reef, where students snorkelled at Fitzroy Island and the Outer Reef. These sessions were not only an opportunity to observe the vibrant marine life but also to collect data on coral bleaching and biodiversity for citizen science initiatives such as Coral Watch and Eye on the Reef. Through active participation, students witnessed the environmental challenges confronting the reef due to increased visitation and climate change.

Further insight into tourism’s influence on local ecosystems came from a visit to a Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. Here, students learned from staff and volunteers about the pressures facing turtle populations and how community involvement and responsible tourism can support conservation outcomes. The hands-on conservation continued with a tree planting project near Kuranda, where students joined local volunteers to restore native vegetation in areas affected by tourism and agricultural development.

The program encouraged students to think critically about industry and community interests. During an environmental debate, students represented stakeholders ranging from developers to conservationists, considering the proposed expansion of the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. This exercise challenged them to evaluate divergent viewpoints when it comes to managing natural resources and promoting economic growth.

Experiential learning continued with a ride on the Skyrail, offering an aerial perspective of the World Heritage-listed rainforest and a chance to consider the role of eco-tourism. Cultural learning was also prioritised, as students joined Traditional Owners on a glass-bottom boat tour, gaining an appreciation for Indigenous stewardship and the importance of Traditional Use of Marine Resource Agreements.

The field trip concluded with a service component, where students assembled hygiene care packs for Indigenous patients and people experiencing homelessness in Cairns. Through these activities, students were encouraged to consider the broader social impacts of tourism and the responsibilities that come with exploring diverse communities.

This experience has reinforced Peninsula Grammar’s commitment to preparing students to be thoughtful, informed and globally aware citizens. The insights gained will inform their studies and their outlook on sustainable futures.

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