From the 3/4 Classrooms 

Last week, 71 very excited Grade 3/4 students set off for three fabulous days at Oasis Camp in Mt Evelyn, and what an adventure it was! With luggage, nerves and excitement in the air, students were ready for a fun-filled time of new adventures, challenges and plenty of laughter.

After we arrived at the camp, we quickly settled in and divided into our activity groups and began one of the six different activities that were planned – 

• A peaceful Enviro Walk - a 40-minute journey through the natural bushland surrounding Oasis Camp. It was a perfect opportunity to slow down, breathe in the crisp forest air, and appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors. 
• The Crate Climb - Students stacked and climbed milk crates, each one taking them higher and higher. The challenge tested their balance and courage. With cheers of encouragement from classmates below, many surprised themselves with how far they could climb! The triumphant smiles at the top level achieved by individual students (and even some funny wobbles on the way down) made this a true camp highlight.
• The Reptile House brought wide eyes and brave hands! Students had the chance to learn about a variety of reptiles, from slithering snakes to spiky lizards and slow-moving turtles. With expert guides leading the session, students discovered fascinating facts about habitats, behaviours and the importance of these often-misunderstood creatures in our ecosystem. 
• Candle making provided a peaceful moment of creativity. Students chose colours and shapes to create their own unique candles to take home as a memento. It was a wonderful blend of sensory fun and craftsmanship—and many students showed off some serious artistic flair!
• The Flying Fox was a thrill from start to finish! Harnessed in and safely secured, students zoomed through the treetops, feeling the rush of wind in their hair and the joy of “flying” above the campgrounds. The look of excitement on each face was unforgettable and at times even the most hesitant campers gave it a go and walked away proud and beaming!

• Archery and the Low Ropes Course -  

  At the Archery range, students took aim with real bows and arrows, learning how to focus their minds and steady their hands. With guidance, everyone got the hang of nocking the arrow, pulling back the string, and releasing with just the right amount of control. Cheers erupted with a bullseye and even the near misses were a cause for celebration.  

  Near the archery area, the Low Ropes Course provided a fantastic contrast in both pace and purpose. Here, students navigated a series of obstacles close to the ground—balancing on logs, crossing wobbly bridges, and swinging from ropes. The key wasn’t speed or strength, but teamwork. Whether helping a friend across a tricky section or working together to problem-solve a challenge, students supported one another and built confidence in their abilities. It was wonderful to watch their communication and cooperation grow. 

The food at camp was scrumptious, and it played a big part in keeping everyone fuelled for fun. Breakfasts were a daily delight. Muffins with eggs and hashbrowns started Thursday with a smile and on Friday we enjoyed pancakes with toppings!

Dinners were also a hit each night. On Wednesday, we enjoyed chicken poke bowls with rice, colourful veggies, and tasty sauces. They were healthy, fresh and full of flavour. Thursday night was taco night. We enjoyed hard shells with a choice of fillings and all the fun (and mess!) that comes with eating tacos! Lunches and snacks were equally enjoyed and there was never a shortage of food!

Camp evenings were just as exciting as the days! On Wednesday night, students gathered in teams for a Trivia Night full of laughter, friendly competition and some surprisingly tricky questions! There were cheers, dancing and plenty of camp spirit on display. On Thursday, it was time to wind down with a movie night featuring the much-loved classic, “A Bug’s Life.” Students curled up with pillows and soft toys. Sadly the movie equipment stopped working, but the students then enjoyed popcorn before heading to bed at 9pm. 

Friday morning brought one last burst of energy with group games on the oval. Students took part in the legendary “Throwing the Gumboot” competition (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds!) and then tackled “The Hardest Game of All Time,” a challenge that had students strategising and running around across the field with determination.

Then it was time to head out for the final leg of our adventure, a visit to Emerald Lake for lunch, followed by a ride on Puffing Billy, the beloved steam train that winds through the Dandenong Ranges. Students waved from the open carriages, soaking up the views from Emerald to Belgrave.

As the buses rolled back into school Friday afternoon, our campers were exhausted, but full of stories, memories, and a real sense of achievement. Whether it was conquering a fear, making a new friend or learning something new, each student brought something special home from Mt Evelyn.

A huge thank you to the parent helpers who attended and assisting us on making it a smooth, safe, and unforgettable experience for all students. We can’t wait to do it all again next year at Phillip Island!