Leaders of Student Wellbeing

To Walk With Others: An Adventure in Empathy and Teamwork: Year 9 Great Aussie Bush Camp at Tea Gardens.

Recently our Year 9 students embarked on a transformative journey at camp, held this year in the beautiful setting of Tea Gardens. Experiencing travel and a school trip of this kind was a first for this group as Covid had hampered previous attempts throughout primary school. This year's camp was not just about physical challenges and outdoor activities; it was a profound experience that fostered empathy, teamwork, and personal growth among our students.

“I felt proud of myself and felt like I’ve achieved something well beyond my goals”

There was a selection of eight activities that included a heart-pounding ride on the duel flying fox. As students soared over the treetops and creek below, they not only experienced an adrenaline rush but also a sense of shared excitement and encouragement from their peers.

“I felt great, I felt like I could do it again and i felt more confident.”

Raft building, required creativity, cooperation, and mutual support. Working in teams, students had to build rafts using limited materials and then trust each other's skills to navigate across the water and back again. This activity highlighted the importance of listening, patience, and valuing each person's contribution, reinforcing the theme of empathy. Not all the rafts made it back in one piece.

“I learnt that I can to lots of things that I wouldn’t have ever thought I could do before.”

Kayaking provided a serene yet stimulating experience. As students paddled through the calm waters of Bundabah Creek, they helped each other perfect their techniques and shared peaceful moments on the water, not to mention a few splashing moments as well. This activity emphasised the importance of mutual support and understanding, as students worked together in two person kayaks to explore the waterway.

“I really need to update my wardrobe, I didn't have much of a fashion sense before Ben showed me that clothes aren't just for comfort and secondly I learnt I that I could step up in not so comfortable situations.”

The vertical climbing challenges and abseiling tested the students' courage and endurance. Scaling the climbing walls and descending the heights required physical strength and mental resilience. More importantly, it was the words of encouragement and the outstretched hands of their classmates that empowered many to conquer their fears. These activities underscored the power of empathy and the strength found in supportive relationships.

“That once you push yourself out of your comfort zone you feel so much better, more confident and like you do anything.”

The team heights challenge combined elements of balance, trust, and strategic thinking. Navigating elevated obstacles required students to rely heavily on each other's guidance and support. This challenge was a powerful metaphor for life's ups and downs, illustrating that with empathy and teamwork, no obstacle is insurmountable.

“That they can go through tricky phases, and that they need us there to help them through it.”

As the day turned to night, the students continued to bond and grow. The disco night was a celebration of their friendships and shared experiences. Dancing together, students let go of their inhibitions and embraced the joy of the moment, fostering a deeper sense of community.

The trivia and physical challenge night was a blend of intellect and activity, where students competed, combining their knowledge and physical prowess. This event reinforced the importance of valuing each other's strengths and working together to achieve common goals. The laughter and camaraderie during these activities were a testament to the strong bonds formed through empathy and cooperation.

“I have so many more friends in my class than i thought, as in i made so many new friendships over the 3 days.”

Throughout the camp, the Year 9 students demonstrated remarkable resilience, teamwork, and a growing sense of empathy. They learned to listen, support, and uplift each other, creating a nurturing environment where everyone could thrive. The Great Aussie Bush Camp experience was more than an outdoor adventure; it was a journey of emotional growth and strengthened connections.

As the camp concluded, it was clear that the students had gained more than just new skills. They returned home with a renewed sense of empathy, a deeper appreciation for teamwork, and stories of adventure that they will cherish for years. The Year 9 camp was an unforgettable journey of growth, empathy, and fun. I like to thank the staff for supporting the students over the three days and for their unconditional support for the trip.

Mark Coster

Year 9 Leader of Student Wellbeing