The recent Year 5 camp at CYC Phillip Island Adventure Resort was an exciting and enriching experience for our students. Over several days, they stepped outside their comfort zones, bonded with friends and tried various thrilling activities.
One highlight was the giant swing, which sent students soaring through the air with many overcoming their fears and supporting one another. The flying fox was another favourite, with students zipping high above the ground taking in the beautiful surroundings. Canoeing provided a tranquil experience, unless, like me, you had a canoe buddy who insisted on paddling directly into the fountain! Archery and disc golf allowed students to hone their concentration and aim with many experiencing a sense of accomplishment after hitting their target. The night walk offered a more reflective moment as students explored the outdoors under the stars, appreciating the peacefulness of nature.
A special part of the trip was witnessing the famous Penguin Parade. The students were thrilled as they watched fairy penguins waddle from the ocean across the beach and up to their burrows. The sheer cuteness of these tiny creatures was a memorable highlight for all.
In addition to the outdoor fun, the food at camp was a hit. Meals were hearty and delicious with many students eagerly awaiting the call for seconds. A frequent teacher refrain was, “Sit down, we’ll let you know when there are seconds!” — a testament to how much the meals were enjoyed.
Our daily devotional times were an opportunity to reflect on God’s love and peace, bringing students and staff together to discuss how we can support one another and live with compassion and kindness.
We extend heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff, always present and attentive to the students' needs and to our fantastic parent volunteers whose tireless efforts ensured the camp ran smoothly. One parent volunteer, Dr Ian Woodcock, shared his thoughts:
“…my major takeaway from the experience was just how much and how genuinely all the teachers cared about the students. I work in a profession where the ability and need to care for others is essential and I strongly felt the whole Year 5 camp team demonstrated this. It was lovely and inspiring to watch. If all year levels have such caring and dedicated teachers as the Year 5 team, then HCC truly is a special place.”
The Year 5 camp was not only a time of fun and adventure but also of personal growth and community building, leaving the students with cherished memories.