Bailed up!
About the program
Students explore the impact of the gold rush on law and order in the colony of NSW, and of bushrangers on the Australian identity.
Students analyse and compare a range of primary and secondary sources, including artefacts and artworks from the period to investigate the threat that bushrangers posed to successful gold miners, the technologies used by the miners and the police to respond to these threats and the consequences for the men who chose to become bushrangers.
A highlight of the program is a re-enactment of the 1864 trial of NSW bushranger John Vane. In the museum’s former courtroom, students act out the trial’s historic proceedings – an immersive experience that helps them to better understand the actions, perspectives and experiences of different people during the gold rush.
Key information
Location
Justice & Police Museum
Corner Albert and Phillip streets
Circular Quay, Sydney NSW 2000
Bookings +61 2 8239 2211
Cost (GST free)
From $200 for up to 20 students
Duration
90 minutes
Session offered
Monday to Friday
Maximum students
50 per session
Supervision ratios
The supervision ratio is 1:10 for primary groups and 1:15 for secondary groups. Teachers and parents attend free of charge at these ratios. One carer per student with special needs will be admitted free of charge
Additional visitor costs
Each additional visitor will be charged at the concession rate of $12
Complementary programs

Onsite
A colonial eye
Students investigate the role of artists during the early colonial period and consider how they contributed to the development of the colony

Onsite
Expanding the colony
Students explore the former farm and examine a range of sources to learn about the expansion of NSW in the 19th century and investigate its impacts on the environment, the people of the Boorooberongal clan and the colonisers