Program Overview

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Introduction to the Maria Island Marine Biology Experience

The Maria Island marine biology experience is a practical learning experience designed for year 11 and 12 students. This predominately field-based unit takes place on picturesque Maria Island on the Tasmanian East Coast.

Program Details

Delivery

The program is delivered as a field trip.

When

The program will run from 27th April to 3rd May 2026.

Where

The program will be held on Maria Island.

Capacity

The program is open to 24 senior secondary students.

Cost

The field trip contribution fee is $525, which covers:

• Hobart airport transfers (for interstate students only)
• Accommodation in Hobart on the first and last night (for interstate students only)
• Transport from IMAS in Hobart to Maria Island and return
• Accommodation on Maria Island
• Hire of all required diving and survey gear
• All meals

About the Program

This hands-on marine science program is designed to engage, challenge, excite, and inspire students through a practical introduction to temperate marine biology. The program encourages students to explore issues threatening biodiversity and the productivity of the marine system, including climate change, invasive species, pollution, and debris, along with their associated social and economic impacts.

Program Structure

The program consists of 5 days on Maria Island, followed by a day presenting research findings in Hobart at the state-of-the-art Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS). This unit, A Practical Introduction to Temperate Marine Biology (UCP016), is an introduction to the Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science.

Recommendations

Before applying for this Maria Island unit, students are encouraged to complete A Primer for Marine and Antarctic Science (UCP015), as it helps understand the subject better and improves chances of getting a place in the UCP016 unit.

Accommodation and Facilities

• Students will stay in shared bunk-bed rooms (6-8 people) in the Maria Island Penitentiary.
• Rooms do not have electricity, but power points are available in the dining room for charging devices.
• Flushing toilets are available, but there are no showers.
• Students should bring a sleeping bag and pillow (if desired), and a fitted single bed sheet is optional but recommended.
• The entire Penitentiary is booked for the program, but the dining room (Mess Hall) and bathrooms are shared with other campers.
• Mobile reception is available, but there is no WiFi.
• The Chapel will be set up as a makeshift lab and lecture space, with power points for charging devices.

Food and Dining

• A catering team will prepare all meals and cater to dietary needs.
• Students will be asked to help with washing up after meals.
• Plenty of food and snacks will be available, but students can bring their own (keeping packaging to a minimum, as all rubbish must be taken off the island).
• Maria Island's wildlife may steal unattended food, so it should be stored securely.
• Meals are prepared and eaten in the communal Mess Hall at the Penitentiary.

Links to the Australian Curriculum

The program aligns with several general capabilities and cross-curriculum priorities, including:

• Ethical understanding
• Creative and critical thinking
• Personal and Social capability
• Sustainability

Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Tasmania is committed to creating diverse, inclusive, and accessible educational experiences. When registering, students are encouraged to inform the university of any needs that require support.