17 September 2026
Memory Lane, Toonallook: Year 4 camp, seven years later
This term I had the pleasure of being a leader on the Year 4 camp program at Toonallook. I spent three days with Mrs Brooks’ 4B class from the Junior School – Donvale campus, and it was an extremely rewarding and fulfilling experience.
When people hear I recently spent three days at Camp Toonallook with a group of Year 4s, the immediate question is: ‘Why on earth did you volunteer for that?’ However, stepping into a leadership role, spending time in nature and getting to know some fun and enthusiastic young Carey students was a godsend in the midst of a long term.
‘I am grateful that I got to see lots of wild animals in their natural habitat. We saw an echidna, baby possum, pelican, jellyfish and many more amazing creatures.’
– Annie, Year 4B
It was a great full-circle moment for me. Being at Carey since ELC means I have had the privilege to go on dozens of camps and Outdoor Ed adventures, but experiencing Toona as a Year 11 leader is a completely different world compared to being there as a Year 4 camper. Back then, it was all about wide-eyed excitement and trying not to get homesick. This time around, the perspective shifted. My priority was ensuring these Year 4s had the safest, most memorable first experience of Toonallook possible.
I cherished each and every moment – even the late nights reprimanding the kids to go to sleep (even though I was in their position not too long ago!).
‘My sister told me that the food at Toona is the best. It didn’t disappoint. The chicken schnitzel was yum.’
– Raphael, Year 4B
Whether it was playing tank-ball (a Toona-spin on the classic down-ball game), kicking the footy, learning about our marine ecosystems, or braiding the girls’ hair, every second of my time as a leader was fun and memorable.
‘When my duty group was on maintenance we showed care for Toona and looked after this beautiful Carey campus.’
– Avery, Year 4B
‘We went to 90 mile beach. It was spectacular. We saw lots of seashells and artefacts from the ocean. To show respect for the land and the ecosystem we left the shells, feather, stones and pieces from the ecosystem there.’
– Emily, Year 4B
‘I feel that I have shown growth at Toona by trying new things, learning to be more independent and showing teamwork with my classmates.’
– Alice, Year 4B
And to the other Senior School students considering putting their hand up for camp leadership opportunities, I say go for it. Many will use the excuse of having too much work, too many SACs and not enough time to spend a few days in the outdoors, but it was so worth it in the end. It was a welcome refresh, recalibration and reset. I encourage each and every student to give it a shot and get involved.
Ava
Year 11 student
First published in Vox Scholae, edition 2.
