OES Camp

Year 11 Outdoor Environmental Studies - Camp 1 - Hiking, Biking and Paddling at the Bass Coast 

Mr Strachan and Mr Tucker with the Year 11 Outdoor Environmental Studies class went on a 3-day adventure on the Bass Coast, journeying from San Remo to Inverloch. The class undertook hiking with a pack, carrying all their food and cooking equipment for the 3 days, they rode 45 km of undulating rail trail and paddled in canoes through the Anderson’s Inlet. Students planned and cooked their meals within their groups successfully. All students represented Northcote’s values of curiosity and humanity excellently throughout the camp.   

Day 1: 

We arrived on Bunurong Country (also spelt Boonwurrung) and met our camp providers Mike and Larah who would help facilitate our experience over the 3 days. Students hiked along the scenic George Bass Coastal Walk, which offered incredible ocean views and challenge. Once we arrived at Kilcunda, camp was set up and students explored the Kilcunda rockpools which was a highlight for many, seeing a range of interesting flora and fauna ranging from seaweed to self-camouflaging decorator crabs.  

Day 2: 

We were treated to some more perfect weather as we rode along the Great Southern Rail Trail. This was highlighted as one of the biggest challenges for the group, riding 45kms with over 500m of elevation. It was a highlight seeing the support students gave to each other during the low points, seeing everyone encourage each other to “just keep going” showed a great sense of camaraderie. Although there were many sore legs and complaints, students enjoyed the scenery and overcome the challenge. That night, we were lucky enough to go on a night walk through the surrounding walking paths near camp and saw an array of life with students viewing possums, crabs, eels, fish and more. 

Day 3:  

Our final day came around quickly and we were once again treated to a perfectly sunny day, which had everyone excited for a paddle in Anderson’s inlet. The water was like glass as we departed, students setting out on a journey through the inlet and back to the Inverloch foreshore. Students had the opportunity to buy fish and chips or a pie in town, which was relished after cooking on a camp stove and eating mostly ‘scroggin’ for 2 days.