On Monday, 6 September, 2004, Year 5G and  Year 5R from Rochedale State School went on an excursion to learn about Australia's Gold Rush Days. Cedar Creek State School was also there as our excursion had to be postponed the week before due to the rain. Set up in bush behind Beenleigh, just south of Brisbane by Berrinbah East State School and run by a teacher from the school, the day is a wonderful opportunity for the children to experience first hand the gold rush days and conditions experienced by our early settlers. everyone learnt heaps and had a great day. Here's some photos. The boys posed in their gold rush costumes. The girls posed in theirs. Then we all lined up for the bus. Waiting at the front gate for the bus. Time to get on the bus and be counted. Our bus had seat belts and was very comfortable. Soon we arrived, ready to start our adventure. We were met by a horseman who showed us the way. We all lined up to follow the horseman. We all had to wait in the Cobb & Co Depot. Soon we arrived at Eureka Town. We all sat down while Trooper Johnson talked to us. He told us the rules and where we could go. The billy was boiling for a cup of bush tea. Then we explored the township. Time for a cup of billy tea. The horses waited patiently. Then the children were put into groups. Then we separated to do some role playing The Chinese were often harassed by the diggers. Then we did some role plays at the General store. Then down to the creek to pan for gold. Then we went to the mine shaft for a role play there. The assayer's tent was where the gold was weighed. The children learnt how to weigh the gold. Soon it was time for the tent making competition. Nearly finished! Just tie down those edges! The children all fitted into their tents. This group did well too. Maybe a bit lopsided!! Then Captain Lucas showed us some whip cracking tricks. Then it was time for lunch. Sausages and bread, damper and syrup - yummy!! Then it was off to find some gold!! The ladies exchanged the gold for money. Look what we found!! Wish this was all real!! Then it was time to buy lollies with their money. All the children got something! Then Captain Lucas showed how clever he was. Trooper Johnson dared him to do better. Pretty clever with one whip!! Even better with 2 - the horse was very good too!! Then it was time to hit the road. Back on to the bus, counted back on. Looks like no one is left behind. What a great day we all had!! Close this page to return to Rochedale State School