Book the coastal discovery van

Ever wondered about coastal erosion, sediment transport or coffee rock? The coastal discovery van is Sunshine Coast Council’s mobile education centre to answer all these questions and more. Explaining coastal processes and the environment with various interactive displays, learning is more fun with the coastal discovery van.

We encourage schools to jump on board and invite students to explore our marine and coastal environment. Students learn about coastal processes that influence our beaches and waterways, and about key natural coastal values of the region. We provide tailored lesson plans and a coastal guardians passport (PDF, 3944KB) to engage your students.

Last year the coastal discovery van visited many schools to teach about the coastal processes that take place in our backyards. Lessons ranged from prep to grade eight, but the content is best suited for grade four and five. Students engaged with the interactive elements of the van, as the teachers guided them through the lessons.

“The coastal discovery van facilitated a whole school visit for us in term 3, which aligned perfectly with our Science unit" said Emily Smith, teacher at local Montville Primary School.

"All students from across the year levels thoroughly enjoyed the visit and liked completing the discovery passport activity. Both presenters were engaging with the students and they enjoyed the interactive side of the van, being able to see how tides work and using the microscopes to investigate sand and shells etc."

"It was a fantastic incursion and we will be booking the van to come and visit again.”

If you are a school or an organisation that would like to seek use of the van or for more information please contact us via email or visit our website.