Building friendships and life skills at Camp Toonallook

Term 1 sees all Year 7 students descending on our Camp Toonallook campus on Gunaikurnai Country on the Gippsland Lakes for their first Outdoor Education experience in Middle School. The program extends over five days during which students participate in water and land activities, including a two-night expedition over to Ninety Mile Beach. This program serves as an orientation to Carey for new students and provides wonderful opportunities for all students to make new connections.

During their time at Camp Toonallook, students partake in a raft build, navigation challenge and tank ball and make snacks for their expedition. Toona also offers a picturesque setting for students to enjoy the sailing component of the program and provides spaces and opportunities for students to connect to each other outside of the traditional classroom setting.

The expedition component of the program introduces many skills and experiences that lay the foundation for future Outdoor Education experiences as students progress through their Carey journey. The Year 7 Program also offers an ideal context for which students can demonstrate and develop the Carey values of Care, Respect and Growth in a safe and supported learning environment.

As part of their expedition, students participate in a kayak journey to their lunch spot and a hike down Ninety Mile Beach. Together, they navigate the challenges of hiking on the sand and arrive at their new campsite. Once at camp, students set up tents on the beautiful Bunga Arm. Here they swim, cook over a fire and enjoy dinner with some impressive sunsets.

With an emphasis on fostering connections, this program aims to unite students and cultivate friendships that will assist in facilitating their transition into Year 7. It also provides opportunities for individuals to cultivate collaboration, ethical decision-making and effective communication skills amidst nature's backdrop. Through engaging in various team activities and challenges, participants learn to navigate diverse perspectives while honing their abilities to communicate respectfully and uphold ethical standards within the group dynamic.

Jake Biddulph
Outdoor Education Teacher