Would you like to learn how to read maps, signs and use a compass in the bush? Come along on an adventure and follow in the steps of the great explorers, as children learn how to read a map, read a compass, and even signs in the bush, to explore new areas or find their way home.

This workshop will be held at Birdsland,  a stunning 75ha bushland reserve in Belgrave Heights with many species of native wildlife and over 130 native birds which have been identified. The Wurrundjeri people lived in the region and it is rich in history.

Starting with the basics of compass and map reading, we’ll then head off on a group bush walk around the lake to test our new skills. Along the way, we’ll learn about the wildlife and history and discover how the bush can also show us compass directions, plus guide us to shelter, water or people if we’re lost. The session ends just like the great explorers, each drawing a detailed map of the area we discovered for our friends and family to use!

This workshop is run by Katie, who is a passionate environmental educator and scientist with many years bush experience using map, compass and bush skills while conducting field research  ‘off the beaten track’  in remote farming, forested and desert landscapes. From an early age her father, an exploration geologist, taught Katie to read maps and the bush to survive and she looks forward to sharing these skills with the next generation of great explorers!

Ages: 5 – 12 years