Educational Packages

Ornithology or criminology, colonisation or fossilization, alpinism or abstract expressionism, probability or sustainability, flora identification or outdoor education, …ok, ok, you get it – Maria Island has much to offer all types of learners!

Encounter Maria Island is well equipped to deal with students in groups of ten or more (and their gear) looking to use Maria Island as a source of demystification or pure inspiration. We welcome enquiries from primary, secondary and tertiary institutions.

Special rates apply to student groups and advice on what to bring and how to pack it is free!

On-island facilities are also well suited to educational endeavours. Sleep in a bunk room at the Penitentiary or camp behind the sand dunes of Darlington Bay. There are cooking facilities and toilets, but no shops – some come prepared. Visit the Accommodation page of this website for more information.

School Discovery Camps

Primary and secondary student groups (from years three to ten) are eligible to partake in Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) ‘School Discovery Camps’ program. Encounter Maria Island is a proud supporter of this fantastic education-based initiative.

The camps offer students a curriculum-based, hands-on, two night, three day experience with educational programs tailored to meet specific requirements. The programs are delivered by highly skilled PWS Discovery Rangers whose knowledge of ‘all things Maria’ is undeniable.

Maria Island National Park is a great venue for school camps, providing students with opportunities to learn about history, geology and wildlife by visiting the UNESCO listed World Heritage Site of Darlington, geological features such as the Fossil Cliffs, and by encountering endangered species like the Tasmanian devil, along with other island residents such as wombats, Forester kangaroos and Cape Barren geese to name a few.

Other activities include rock pool rambles, nocturnal spotlights, whale rescue, devil discovery, an interactive quiz night and bush trails.

If you’re a teacher wanting to find out more about PWS Discovery Camps email parkseducation@parks.tas.gov.au.