taking the high road...

Bethany Wolfe

Teacher - Bushwhacked

The final outing for the 2016 Bushwacked students was a four day camp at the stunning Wilson's Promontory at the beginning of November.

This expedition involved planning and participating in hikes around the coastal National Park to qualify for the Duke of Edinburgh Award.  Students were met with some challenging experiences but were rewarded with the natural beauty of the Prom including pristine beaches, forest and wildlife.

Students can be congratulated on the  leadership qualities and independence that they displayed on this event - skills on which they have focused throughout the year as they have met the obligations of the DoE Award. As they have faced the varied challenges presented by the Bushwhacked curriculum they have shown determination and perseverence and as a result, they have developed self-reliance, responsibility, teamwork skills and confidence - qualities that will support their progress across all areas of their learning.

I would also like to acknowldge the terrific efforts of my colleagues Brendan Corney, Sarah Cole and Tayler Roberts for working with the Bushwhacked students and sharing the trip with us.

Eric Seychelle

Year 9

My favourite moment was the first day when we got to Tidal River and set up camp. We then had the chance to talk and relax at our cabins before the big hike the next day. 

Xavier Venville

Year 9

The most challenging time on camp was the second day of walking. In the middle of our 18km hike, just before lunch,  we got pretty tired . After we had lunch we were able to get going again and finish the hike. We ran into the car park with joy when we realized we'd made it!

Amon Mether

Year 9

I think everything on camp was pretty good. The teachers were excellent. The hike was challenging but I would do it again. As we were looking out at the ocean we were lucky enough to see whales - a mother and her calf - breaching. It was incredible!

Fouad Al Badaoui

Year  9

Would I recommend someone join Bushwhacked in Year 9?

YES!!!

 It has been such an amazing experience right from day 1. From learning how to use a Trangia stove to going out on hikes and camps, this subject has just been spectacular! I have learned so many new skills that I would never, ever  have thought of learning - and just the opportunity to go to amazing places like the Great Ocean Road Walk and Wilsons Promontory has been awesome! While at these places I climbed mountains, slept in a tent and saw heaps of native animals -  which was pretty darn cool.

If you are picking subjects for Year 9,  I strongly suggest joining Bushwhacked. You may think its scary and hard at first but trust me, in the end, you will want to do it all over again! 

Jude Angove

Year 9

I would recommend to others to do Bushwacked and go on the camps. It feels really good after you've finished a hike - like you've achieved something great. You get to know the people in your group really well and make some great memories to look back on.