One of the many great experiences at Yiramalay

In August, as part of the Personal Development circle of the curriculum and the NAIDOC Week celebrations, students and staff set off to Manning Gorge for a weekend of camping and fun. The trip fit well into the theme for NAIDOC – Heal the Country – and provided  opportunities to build and restore connections and relationships.

We arrived at Mount Barnett roadhouse and set up camp before dark and made our way down to the river and had an afternoon swim. After a delicious barbecue dinner, students collected firewood and then sat around the campfire relaxing. These quiet, relaxing moments are so important for the wellbeing of our students and staff, they provide occasions for reflection and rekindling of relationships with others and with the country.

After an early night and an even earlier breakfast, we set off for the Manning Gorge hike, the heat of the day made the walk hot and tiring. Alonso won the prize for perseverance and resilience as he persisted with the walk despite wanting to go back at times. When we finally arrived, Alonso leapt down the cliffs like a rabbit and dove into the ice-cold blue water with a big ‘I deserve this!’ Facilitating safe occasions that build resilience, determination and stamina is a big part of the personal development program for students. It is in these significant moments that students grow to understand their capacity and build self-esteem.

As the weekend went by there where many learning moments for staff and students. On the last day of the camp, we set off in the trusty bus to Bell Gorge, where the day was spent jumping off the cliffs, with Wayne earning the title of somersault champion. After a bumpy, dusty, air-con free, three-hour car trip (with a few jumps at the Lennard River Bridge) we were back at Yiramalay. Tired and dusty but all happy. One of the many great experiences had at Yiramalay. Thank you to all staff and students who made this trip a delight.

Renae Carmichael, Teacher