It has been several years since our Beyond Boundaries Camp Program has gone ahead as planned. Much to the excitement of students and staff our Years 3 to 6 students have had the opportunity to attend Camps over the last two weeks. 

Last week, Years 5 and 6 students headed off by coach to Camp Jungai. Jungai is in the scenic Rubicon Valley, two hours from Melbourne. At Camp Jungai, students participated in a range of outdoor activities designed to empower, stimulate, and inspire confidence, developing both their individual skills and ability to work in teams harmoniously. The weather was not particularly kind, however, from all reports, the students embraced the rain and the mud and had a terrific time. 

This week, I had the pleasure of attending the Years 3 and 4 Camp at Camp Gundiwindi. Gundiwindi is situated on the border of Wandin North and Silvan, Victoria. The setting is unique in that it has much natural bushland, a park-like landscape, and open grazing paddocks surrounded by rural and agricultural farms. Adventure based activities include the 150m flying fox, the giant swing, indoor archery, damper cooking, bushwalking, orienteering, farmyard and animal feeding, initiative activities/team building activities, nature trails, and an adventure playground.  

A highlight for me was sitting around the campfire on the last night of Camp. Every student spoke and listened to others’ experiences and what they had learned. There were varied responses from students, however many responses followed a couple of similar themes: 

“When I got on the bus, I was nervous, I didn’t think I could do it, I thought I’d miss my family too much, but I’ve had the best time and I don’t think I’ll feel nervous next time.” 

“I was so scared when looking at the giant swing, I didn’t think I could do it. I did it though, and after I did, I was so proud of myself.” 

“I have become friends with people I didn’t know I got along with. I’m looking forward to playing with them at school.” 

“I now have some friends that are in Year 4 as well as Year 3. It’s great to have met some new friends.” 

I could not be prouder of all the students who attended Camp. They overcame nerves, stepped out of their comfort zones, were kind to one another, met new friends, and did it all with a smile. 

I would like to thank all Barbreck staff who attended the recent camps. Their level of care for the students and enthusiasm for the program is incredible. We are fortunate to have them as part of the St Catherine’s team.  

I look forward to attending more camps in 2023! 

To view and download images from the Beyond Boundaries Camps for Years 3&4 and 5&6, please click here.