Camp News

Strathbogie camp

On Thursday, 29 November the St Albans Secondary College awarded local farmer David Steen a Lifetime Achievement Award. A Celebratory Dinner was held at the camp to recognise David’s long term support and involvement in the Strathbogie Camping Program.

For over 32 years David has opened his farm to students visiting the camp. It was a fantastic first hand experience of rural life where students saw sheep sheared, feed David’s herd of goats and toured the farm buildings. Of course David was always good for a story or two. David’s support extended to landscaping the campsite, moving fallen trees, mowing and numerous other maintenance tasks. Most done for nothing more than a thank you.

David was presented with a Special Award Plaque, which will be displayed at camp and a Commemorative Medallion for him to take home.

In his acceptance speech he stated that he always found the students polite, well behaved and a pleasure to work with.

Even the local wildlife turned up to approve the Award.

Student reflections 

During our time at Strathbogie camp, we experienced many fun activities. This included kayaking/canoeing, rock climbing at the Dam wall, walking up Mt Wombat to view the beautiful lookout, exploring the Strathbogie cemetery and many more educational ventures. On our journey, we sought Australian animals such as koalas, kangaroos, wombats and echidnas. While on the Goulburn River, we learnt the basic skills of kayaking and the history of the Chinaman's Bridge and its relation to the gold rush. Overall, our time at camp was very insightful and enjoyable!

-Michelle and Eden

The highlights of 8J’s camp were the activities and games we participated in, such as Capture the Flag and Family Feud. Canoeing was extremely fun, even when two of our classmates capsized and the majority of us got sunburnt and developed tan lines. My favourite part of camp would have been hanging out in the recreation room with everyone, telling stories, having pillow fights, and playing games. Even in the bus, it was never boring, as we played Truth or Dare, Heads Up, and sang along to the songs our classmates chose. Overall, camp was one of the best parts of the year, especially with all our friends to enjoy it.

 -Monique