Central Australia Camp

Henry Melchior

Year 9

The Central Australia camp was a amazing experience that I think I’ll remember for the rest of my life. 

I really enjoyed seeing the different mountains that we walked around and learning the geological and aboriginal history of how they were formed. I especially liked the Kings Canyon rim walk it was very beautiful a experience I hope to do again. I thought experiencing these places with new friends was a nice way to do it. I think some of my favourite moments are when me and some other would play uno after dinner and relax, as well as when we went to Simpsons gap and something I learnt after the trip was that my great grandparents had picnics in the same spot, so I thought that was an interesting and beautiful experience. If you ever have to opportunity to go on this trip I highly recommend it.

Gabriel Di Falco

Year 10

The Central Australia camp was an incredible experience. We had two big hikes on the Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon Rim tracks. They were very challenging as the surface was rocky and uneven, and the heat was like what we only see in the middle of summer in Melbourne. 

You have heard stories about the places like Uluru, or maybe seen some pictures - but it is completely different seeing them in person. These will be memories that will last for the rest of my life.

Rainbow Li

Year 10

We were greeted with red soil and the sweltering rays of sun which stretched across the desert landscape, into the outback! (Despite that, my back is still very much in 👍).

This was my first time seeing the big rock known as Uluru, and it surpassed the size I had originally imagined it to be. I hugged a snake, which was also cool. There were dusty opal mines and various kinds of camels. We visited so many different and beautiful locations. I learned a lot of interesting facts - like how you can hear trees drinking water and that lemongrass can clear your sinuses! This camp was a very memorable, unique experience.

Tayler Roberts

Teacher

Central Australia, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has always been a great destination for travellers seeking adventure and a deeper understanding of outback indigenous culture. 

The BSC students that enjoyed a ten day journey at the end of Term 3, camped in tents, slept one night in a cave,  handled snakes and reptiles, and trekked through amazing scenery - so the adventure  was definitely there! The tour visited Uluru, Angkerle Atwatye, Kata Tjuta, Watarrka National Park and Kings Canyon  - and provided unique opportunities to learn about the region's geology, indigenous culture, and the remarkable resilience of its inhabitants. In addition, along the journey students also visited iconic Australian sites and towns such as the  Coober Pedy, Alice Springs, Woomera Defence Base, Royal Flying Doctor Service HQ, the School of the Air HQ, Kulgera Pub and Clifton Springs.

Central Australia's natural beauty made an impression on our students, and our driver, hosts and tour guides provided answers to many questions posed by our students. Students talked and learned about a wide range of issues including  sustainability, indigenous medicine, Aboriginal land management, indigenous art,  the importance of the conservation of unique cultures and ecosystems, and so much more. Through this experience, the students could identify and appreciate the profound connection between the land, the indigenous population, and their ancient traditions.

Such an journey is not 'just a camp'; it is a experience that can impact students for years to come.

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