Culture & Connect Camp

Over the past four weeks, students in Years 7–10 were given the opportunity to attend the Culture and Connect Camps at The Willows. Unfortunately, due to the severity and unpredictability of storms in the lead-up to the camps, all overnight experiences were converted to day trips. While this was disappointing for some students, the days were still filled with meaningful experiences, learning and enjoyment.

Each camp day began with students setting up the site and participating in a Welcome to Country, delivered by Waabi CB and Dan Levy. They spoke about the importance of connecting to Country, respecting those who have come before us, and the role young people play as future custodians.

Students then took part in a wide range of activities across the two days, which varied depending on presenter availability and weather conditions. Activities included carving, catapult building, pottery on the riverbank, fishing, painting, eco-dyeing, splashing in the river, games, yarning, and photography. A highlight for the Year 10 students was a workshop led by a senior professor of Archaeology from UNE, who guided students in making and using traditional tools to carve wooden sticks.

Thank you to all staff who attended and supported the camps, making these valuable cultural learning opportunities possible for our students.