Year 9 Outdoor Education Camp

From 3 to 14 of September, two Year 9 Outdoor Education classes undertook a camping trip to the Grampians where they learnt about the importance of outdoor environments. Students were able to get a hands-on experience of the Australian outback and were required to hike and rock climb.

On the first day, students visited Brambuk Cultural Centre to learn about details of Indigenous culture. Students were shown two movies on the creation story and then got to create their own story on a miniature boomerang followed by a demonstration of boomerang throwing.

After their time at Brambuk, students set up camp at Smith’s Mill. At night, students cooked meals on their Trangia’s and were debriefed on their day, as well as told conundrums and campfire stories until it was time for bed.

The next day consisted of a walk from Zumsteins to MacKenzie Falls, with a challenging staircase to overcome. Students set up camp at Mount Stapleton campground.

Day three was hiking day. Many students were challenged in the hike but were rewarded with the full experience and a view that would be remembered for years to come. They returned to Stapleton campground for a big rest.

On the last day, students were lucky enough to rock climb at Hollow Mountain, as well as abseil, which challenged students to overcome their fear of heights and trust their instructor. This was a lasting experience which many students cherished. After rock climbing, students were ready to return home.

This camp gave students an idea of Outdoor Education as a subject and allowed them to decide whether they would continue their studies in this domain.