Exploring North
Year 11 Camp to Central Australia 2025
Exploring North
Year 11 Camp to Central Australia 2025
Over eight unforgettable days, students journeyed through some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes, connected with Indigenous culture, pushed personal boundaries, and made memories to last a lifetime. Here's a day-by-day snapshot of this epic adventure.
The Adventure Begins
Bright and early at 5am, bleary-eyed but buzzing with excitement, the Year 11s departed school on a long bus ride destined for Adelaide. The drive was filled with snacks, naps, music, and a general buzz of anticipation as the vastness of the journey ahead began to sink in.
Coober Pedy: The Underground Town
Arriving in the quirky outback town of Coober Pedy, students took a town tour to learn about the unique lifestyle of underground living and the fascinating world of opal mining. The highlight? Sleeping in an underground opal mine – a truly unforgettable and surprisingly cozy experience!
First Glimpse of Uluru
The journey to Uluru was filled with excitement, and nothing could compare to the moment the mighty rock came into view. As the sun began to set, Uluru glowed with brilliant reds and oranges, providing the perfect backdrop for hundreds of photos and (of course) a few TikToks.
Cultural Connection and Kata Tjuta
The day began with a powerful visit to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, where students learned about Anangu culture and traditions. A walk around the base of Uluru brought them up close to ancient rock art and sacred sites. That afternoon, a hike through the stunning domes of Kata Tjuta offered more jaw-dropping views and chances for reflection.
Kings Canyon & Alice Springs
An early start took the group to Kings Canyon for a scenic rim walk, including a peaceful stop at the lush Garden of Eden – a true oasis in the desert. Later, in Alice Springs, students met Rex the Snake Man and his scaly companions. Many comfort zones were tested and conquered with a snake (or lizard!) photo to prove it.
Exploring Alice Springs
The afternoon brought a visit to the Desert Park, where students saw native animals in natural settings. A town tour followed, featuring stops at the Royal Flying Doctor Service, School of the Air, and ANZAC Hill. Evenings at the Alice Springs caravan park were filled with visits to the now-famous strawberry food truck, bao buns, the jumping pillow, and incredible sunset views from Sunset Hill.
Final Reflections
The last morning was spent walking through the peaceful and picturesque Simpsons Gap. Surrounded by towering red rock walls and soft desert silence, it was the perfect place to reflect on the week. The journey ended with a flight back to Melbourne, bringing the adventure full circle.
From the striking beauty of Uluru to the underground charm of Coober Pedy, this trip offered more than just sightseeing – it built friendships, resilience, and unforgettable stories. There were souvenirs bought, countless games of UNO, late-night chats under starry skies, and endless laughter.
The Year 11 Central Australia Camp will undoubtedly be a highlight of 2025 – a journey of discovery, bonding, and pure Aussie spirit. Thank you to everyone who made this journey a trip of a lifetime!