OES Camp

Outdoor Environmental Studies Camp 2 – Thomson River  

Last week, our students embarked on an unforgettable journey along the Thomson River

 in Victoria, immersing themselves in nature while deepening their understanding of environmental systems and sustainability. The camp combined adventure, teamwork, and hands-on learning in a pristine outdoor setting. 

Students paddled through fast-flowing waters and navigated beginner to intermediate rapids, developing essential canoeing skills and river safety awareness. They learned to read water flow, identify hazards, and apply techniques to manoeuvre their canoes confidently and safely. 

Beyond the river, students took full responsibility for their camp life - setting up tents, cooking meals for their groups, and managing their daily routines. This experience fostered independence, collaboration, and resilience. 

The natural environment provided a living classroom where students explored key concepts from their studies, including: 

• Impacts of urbanisation on river ecosystems 
• Food webs and the delicate balance of aquatic and terrestrial life 
• Abiotic and biotic factors influencing biodiversity 
• The role of technology in shaping and sometimes disrupting natural environments 

This camp was not just about adventure (a lot of it was), but it was also about connecting theory to practice, building environmental stewardship, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. 

We’re proud of our students for embracing the challenges and opportunities of this experience with enthusiasm and curiosity!