Wildbark Learning Centre at Mulligans Flat
Wildbark Learning Centre at Mulligans Flat
Wildbark Learning Centre is a brand new nature-based learning centre in the nations capital, providing a positive vision of pro-active restoration practices to inspire the community to care for Australia’s landscapes and wildlife.
Wildbark Learning Centre is situated within Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary which is the largest patch of Box-Gum Grassy Woodland left in public ownership. This is a critically endangered native ecosystem which has suffered a 97% reduction in size since european settlement.
Boasting over 1200 hectares of pristine woodlands encompassed by a 1.8m high predator-proof fence, Mulligans has been the site of a number of research projects. These include many animal reintroductions of species that were once here but have been locally extinct for between 50-120 years.
The ultimate goal of Mulligans Flat is to restore and create an ecosystem that functions just like it would have 200 years ago.
Wildbark Learning Centre is the ideal location for schools to engage in public programs with a trained ecologist. They can explore subjects such as plant and animal interactions, environmental management, cultural heritage and vegetation identification.
Opening Hours
Open 7 days
Programs Available
5. Embark on Enchanting Adventures: Tales & Trails - The Early Learning Edition (ELC, K-2) (1hr or 1.5hrs)
Welcome to a world of wonder and learning, where little hearts and minds come alive with curiosity and joy! Introducing Tales & Trails: The Early Learning Edition – a captivating journey that introduces young explorers to new words and exciting concepts, igniting their imagination and connecting them to the wonders of nature.
Step onto our enchanting discovery trail, a delightful pathway winding through the bush that beckons with promises of adventure. Nestled within this charming journey is the magic of storytelling, where Australian picture books come alive, transporting young listeners into the heart of captivating tales. But the enchantment doesn't end there – we'll delve deeper into the stories, songs, and crafts, bringing them to life through interactive hands-on activities that nurture creativity and connection.
Our hour-long escapade is thoughtfully paced, perfectly tailored for the energetic steps of our young participants. As we wander through the sanctuary, senses awaken, and eyes sparkle with the discovery of both the grand and the intricate. Guided by gentle exploration, children engage their senses to uncover the secrets of the natural world – from the rustling leaves to the songs of birds – and learn the art of identifying animal habitats by deciphering the clues left behind, such as diggings and nests.
Every Tales & Trails adventure boasts a unique theme, intricately tied to the featured book and complemented by a craft activity that invites imagination to take flight. Whether enjoyed as part of a term-long journey or a standalone adventure, each experience is tailored to kindle young minds and nurture their connection to the world around them. *Interested in term/year booking please email us to discuss opportunity for program variations to enhance learning experience.
Beyond the magic of discovery, our young learners will embark on a journey of understanding and empowerment. Through engaging discussions during our field component, children will explore the vital importance of habitat conservation, the footprints we leave on our environment, and the meaningful actions they can take to become guardians of the natural world.
Join us for our Tales & Trails: The Early Learning Edition, where stories merge with nature, and young hearts embark on a lifelong journey of wonder and stewardship.
* We also invite you to stick around and let the little ones enjoy our Nature Playground, where we include tea/coffee for educators and Babyccinos for the children. *Dietaries to be confirmed prior to arrival. (allow 30min + additional cost of $3pp) *To book add-on please add this into booking notes.
Location: Wildbark, 25 Rosenberg Street, Throsby, ACT
Program Information
- Delivery Type:
- In Canberra
- Year Levels:
- Preschool
- Kindergarten
- Year 1
- Year 2
- Social Groups
- Availability:
- Weekdays: 10:00 – 11:00 am
- Weekdays: 12:30 – 1:30 pm
3. School Guided Walk - Journey into Canberra's Untamed Woodlands: A Glimpse Back in Time (2hrs)
Step into a world untouched by the presence of foxes, cats, and modern clearing practices, and behold the splendor of Canberra's woodlands as they existed before. Just a mere 20-minute escape from the city center, this unique adventure offers a rare opportunity to witness endangered wildlife in their natural habitat, a sight unseen for a century.
Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of nature's wonders, where the bustling cityscape gives way to serene woodlands. Stroll through the Sanctuary with our guide/s discussing species that have remained absent for a century, their triumphant return made possible through meticulous restoration efforts. We visit the historic Woolshed, allowing time for a quick snack, drink, toilet or rest. As you explore the sanctuary, our dedicated guides will unveil our mission to breathe life back into the environment and rekindle the presence of lost species.
For students, this experience becomes an immersive learning opportunity that aligns seamlessly with the cross-curriculum priority of sustainability.
Our meticulously designed programs cater to a diverse range of age groups, spanning from preschoolers to university students. Each session hones in on the unique needs of plants and animals, fostering an understanding of wildlife management, ecosystem rejuvenation, and the delicate art of animal reintroductions.
Your adventure begins at the playground located at the intersection of Quinane Avenue and Justice Kelly Street, Forde. From there, the journey unfolds, immersing you in a world that time nearly forgot, but where nature's story continues to be written. Join us as we bridge the gap between past and present, and discover the resplendent beauty that lies just beyond the city's bustling facade.
Capacity and Cost: Maximum capacity: approx. 120 students, Cost: $12 per student.
Meal options available: Need something to eat? We are more than happy to support your visit with a delicious lunch selection of sandwiches, pastries & platters, for you, the staff and students to share and enjoy at 'The Woolshed' (menu & pricing available upon request. Dietaries to be confirmed prior to visit).
Click here to download Certificate of Currency and Risk Assessment
Drop off location: Intersection of Quinane Avenue and Justice Kelly Street, Forde
Pick up location: Wildbark, 25 Rosenberg Street, Throsby
Program Information
- Delivery Type:
- In Canberra
- Year Levels:
- Kindergarten
- Primary
- Secondary
- Tertiary
- Social Groups
- Availability:
- Weekdays: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Weekdays: 12:30 – 2:30 pm
2. The Round Robin: An Engaging Expedition for School Groups (1.5hrs)
Designed with larger school groups in mind, the Round Robin offers an immersive and enlightening experience through a carefully curated 4-station guided tour.
Step into the heart of the critically endangered ecosystem at Mulligans Flat as our expert guides lead your students through a captivating journey, unfolding the wonders of the Sanctuary across 4 distinct stations.
Upon a captivating introduction to the Sanctuary, your students will be divided into 3-5 groups, each embarking on a 15-minute exploration led by our knowledgeable Education Rangers at their designated station. The program itself is adaptable to cater to the age and proficiency levels of your group, ensuring a tailor-made educational adventure.
What’s Included:
Station 1: The Story So Far & Endangered Species Re-introductions
Embark on a journey through time, unravelling the tale of Mulligans Flat's conservation efforts. Discover the heartwarming stories of endangered species making a triumphant return to their native habitat.
Station 2: Hollow Homes
Unveil the intricate world of habitat diversity within hollows. Witness the importance of these cozy nooks for a variety of creatures and learn about their significance in sustaining a thriving ecosystem.
Station 3: Coarse Woody Debris
Delve into the realm of decaying wood and its pivotal role in nurturing biodiversity. Unearth the hidden treasures of coarse woody debris and its impact on the delicate balance of life.
Station 4: Reptiles in the Sanctuary
Encounter the mesmerizing world of reptiles that call Mulligans Flat home. Engage with fascinating facts about their behaviour, habitat, and the crucial role they play in the sanctuary's ecosystem.
Additional Station Options (Subject to Availability) -
Station 5: Indigenous Connection to Country (available upon request, subject to ranger availability)
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of indigenous heritage and its deep-rooted connection to the land. Explore the profound relationship between culture and nature.
Station 6: Bushland Scavenger Hunt (available upon request)
Embark on an interactive adventure, unlocking the secrets of the bushland through an engaging scavenger hunt that challenges students' observational skills.
Station 7: Waterbug Detectives (macroinvertebrates) (available upon request, subject to season, water quality, and levels)
Dive into the aquatic realm, becoming detectives of the waterbug world. Investigate the health of aquatic ecosystems through the lens of fascinating macroinvertebrates.
Ignite curiosity, inspire learning, and cultivate a deep appreciation for our precious ecosystems through the Round Robin guided tour at Mulligans Flat. Your students' educational journey awaits!
Capacity and Cost: Maximum capacity: approx. 120 students, Cost: $14 per student.
Meal options available: If you would like to extend your visit and join us for food and drinks, we are able to provide a menu or you can book a babyccino table (menu & pricing upon request).
Click here to download Certificate of Currency and Risk Assessment
Meeting Point: Wildbark, 25 Rosenberg Street, Throsby, ACT
NOTE: Please double check with driver they have entered the address above, not our Mulligans Flat Twilight Tour or Playground locations in Forde.
Program Information
- Delivery Type:
- In Canberra
- Year Levels:
- Kindergarten
- Primary
- Secondary
- Tertiary
- Social Groups
- Availability:
- Weekdays: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Weekdays: 12:30 – 2:30 pm
1. School Twilight Tour (2hrs)
Embark on a captivating journey with our Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary Night Tour, where time itself turns back, and the ancient Australian bush awakens just as it was a century ago. As the sun sets, the sanctuary transforms into a realm of enchantment, where the hidden world of nocturnal creatures bursts into vibrant activity.
Guided by our expert naturalists, venture deep within the predator-proof fence that shields the sanctuary, allowing native wildlife to thrive without the threat of foxes and feral cats. Prepare to be amazed as you witness the nocturnal wonders of nature unfold before your eyes.
Picture yourself in awe as the elusive Eastern Bettong ventures out to forage on native truffles in the wild, a species thought to have vanished from the Australian mainland for nearly a century. Observe the graceful sugar glider as it delicately feeds on nectar atop a flowering eucalyptus tree, and witness various kangaroo and wallaby species as they graze in their untouched natural habitat.
Delve into the fascinating world of conservation science as you discover how modern advancements are shaping our comprehension and capability to revive these critically endangered woodlands. This night tour at Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary promises not only an unforgettable adventure into the past but also an inspiring glimpse into the future of ecological restoration.
Join us for an evening of wonder and discovery, where the past and the future converge under the starlit Australian skies.
Capacity and Cost: Maximum capacity: approx. 100 students, Cost: $16 per student.
Meal options available: Have you got a busy schedule during your school trip? We offer visiting schools a select menu (menu & pricing upon request).
Click here to download Certificate of Currency and Risk Assessment
Meeting Point: Wildbark, 25 Rosenberg Street, Throsby, ACT
NOTE: Please double check with driver they have entered the address above, not our Mulligans Flat Twilight Tour or Playground locations in Forde.
Program Information
- Delivery Type:
- In Canberra
- Year Levels:
- Primary
- Secondary
- Tertiary
- Social Groups
- Availability:
- Everyday: 5:00 – 10:00 pm
6. Online Classes - Woodlands and Wetlands
Get ready to delve into the captivating realm of Woodland Ecology, all from the comfort of your screen! Journey alongside our seasoned Ranger at Mulligans Flat on a thrilling online escapade.
Through the magic of ZOOM, immerse yourself in our dynamic live online seminars, where we connect you with the brilliant minds of The Woodlands and Wetlands Trust. This interactive experience is tailor-made for budding young minds from year 1 to the tertiary level, offering a unique opportunity to journey into the heart of field techniques and research methodologies.
Unveil the mysteries of Mulligans Flat as we guide you through the captivating DIGIVOL: Secret Life of Critters camera trap network. Peer through the lens of this innovative technology, unveiling the hidden, nocturnal world of the sanctuary's inhabitants. But that's not all – you'll be an active part of our data-gathering team! As our honorary experts, you'll contribute to the real-time collection of vital information about population density and biodiversity, impacting the future of our cherished woodlands.
So, prepare to uncover the secrets of the night, explore the sanctuary's wonders, and play a vital role in the world of scientific discovery. All you need is an internet connection, a curious mind, and a sense of adventure – and we'll handle the rest! Join us for an engaging online experience that leaves no screen unturned in the quest for knowledge and exploration.
Program Information
- Delivery Type:
- Online
- Year Levels:
- Preschool
- Kindergarten
- Primary
- Secondary
- Tertiary
- Social Groups
- Availability:
- Contact attraction to book
4. Embark on a Transformative Journey of "Connection to Country" (1.5hrs)
Unravel the intricate threads of our shared heritage as we unite our narratives in a harmonious tapestry. Join us on an immersive expedition through the woodlands, led by our esteemed Indigenous Ranger, a custodian of ancestral wisdom. Together, we'll delve into the heart of Canberra's natural bounty, uncovering the treasures of bush tucker, ancient stories, and the vibrant creatures that find solace in Mulligans' embrace.
Engage in the art of storytelling, where tales of the land come to life with vivid detail. Immerse yourself in a tangible connection with history as you explore authentic artifacts and discover the profound medicinal knowledge sourced from the earth. A captivating bush tucker cooking experience awaits, offering a hands-on exploration of flavours that have nourished both body and spirit for generations.
Guided by our adept Ranger, venture beyond the bounds of ordinary experience into the Sanctuary itself, shielded by an impervious predator-proof fence. Here, amidst the absence of foxes and feral cats, native animals thrive, flourishing in their untouched habitat.
Allow this enriching encounter to spark an ongoing quest for understanding. Open your heart and mind to the profound influence of Aboriginal Culture, which has lovingly sculpted the very land upon which we tread and reside. Let the spirit of Connection to Country empower your journey of discovery, inspiring a continuous pursuit of knowledge, respect, and reverence for the remarkable legacy woven into the fabric of our shared homeland.
Capacity and Cost: Maximum capacity: approx. 40 students, Cost: $24 per student.
Click here to download Certificate of Currency and Risk Assessment
Meeting Point: Wildbark, 25 Rosenberg Street, Throsby, ACT
NOTE: Please double check with driver they have entered the address above, not our Mulligans Flat Twilight Tour or Playground locations in Forde.
Program Information
- Delivery Type:
- In Canberra
- Year Levels:
- Preschool
- Kindergarten
- Primary
- Secondary
- Tertiary
- Social Groups
- Availability:
- Weekdays: 10:00 – 11:30 am
- Weekdays: 12:30 – 2:00 pm
7. Adventures With Wildbark Starring Mt Stromlo Observatory - Stargazing (1hour)
Embark on an unforgettable cosmic journey at Mulligans Flat, where the boundless wonders of the universe come to life in the heart of nature. Join us for an enchanting evening hosted by the revered Mt Stromlo Observatory, where the night sky becomes your canvas for discovery.
As the sun bids its adieu and the stars emerge one by one, you'll find yourself immersed in the brilliance of constellations, planets, and celestial phenomena. Gaze upon the shimmering tapestry of the Milky Way, its ancient light revealing the secrets of time itself. With state-of-the-art telescopes and expert guides from ANU Mt Stromlo Observatory at your disposal, the universe's most captivating treasures are within your reach.
But the adventure doesn't stop there for those interested in the 1.5 or 2.5 hour programs. After your cosmic exploration, be guided by the experienced Wildbark Sanctuary Rangers on a captivating walk through Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary. Discover the hidden world of native flora and fauna, as you journey through tranquil landscapes and unspoiled habitats. Catch a glimpse of elusive creatures as they roam free in their natural sanctuary.
Whether you're an astrophysics enthusiast, a nature lover, or a curious soul seeking an unforgettable experience, this is your chance to witness the cosmos and connect with the Earth in a profound and meaningful way. Join us at Mulligans Flat for a stargazing and guided walk adventure that will ignite your imagination and leave you and your group with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
The universe awaits – are you ready to explore?
Objects observed will depend on the scheduled date – in the event of cloudy weather stargazing will be substituted for guided walk/talk or rescheduled. A stargazing session using our outreach telescopes is followed by a Question & Answer session with astronomers.
Program Information
- Delivery Type:
- In Canberra
- Year Levels:
- Kindergarten
- Primary
- Secondary
- Tertiary
- Social Groups
- Availability:
- Contact attraction to book
8. Adventures With Wildbark Starring Mt Stromlo Observatory - Stargazing (1.5hour)
Same as program 7. However, this program allows for extra 30min Stargazing.
Objects observed will depend on the scheduled date – in the event of cloudy weather stargazing will be substituted for guided walk or rescheduled.
Program Information
- Delivery Type:
- In Canberra
- Year Levels:
- Kindergarten
- Primary
- Secondary
- Tertiary
- Social Groups
- Availability:
- Contact attraction to book
9. Adventures With Wildbark Starring Mt Stromlo Observatory - Stargazing + Guided Sanctuary Walk (2.5hrs)
This program is is similar to Programs 7 & 8 in regards to Stargazing, however includes 1.5 hours for Mulligans Flat Sanctuary Twilight Walk followed by 1 Hour of Stargazing experience.
Objects observed will depend on the scheduled date – in the event of cloudy weather stargazing will be substituted for Guided Walk/Talk or rescheduled.
Program Information
- Delivery Type:
- In Canberra
- Year Levels:
- Kindergarten
- Primary
- Secondary
- Tertiary
- Social Groups
- Availability:
- Contact attraction to book