Outdoor and Environmental Studies

Term one saw the Unit 1&2 Outdoor and Environmental Studies classes take their learning to the Bogong High Plains. Mr Archibald and Mr McMahon’s classes came together to experience what it was like to be part of an alpine environment. As most students didn’t have the opportunity to attend an OES camp during 2020, this ended up being their first taste of camping in a remote location. Students needed to prepare and cook their own meals, set up their own campsites, along with prepare for an extended hike across the high plains. Students were also challenged by not having access to their mobile devices while on location. 

During the second day of the trip, students were broken into two groups and would hike from two different locations on the high plains. The groups would meet up at a Wallace’s Hut for lunch before continuing on with their journeys to their respective destinations. The full day hike lasting over 22 kilometres in total. All staff involved were pleased to see both groups finish the hike, with the only casualty being Miss Talbot and a wobbly ankle. Not to worry as her team of helpers including Majd Barboura, Mark Barboura, Cassandra Fournair, Maldini Barbourah and Piter Hanna were there to help her get across the finish line. Other notable mentions included Ethan Mcleish carrying a large wooden log 12 kilometres to make sure the group had firewood at the completion of the hike. Tara Grima, Ashlee Johnston, Jordyn Dancer, Tayla Semmens and Alana Holland kept Mr McMahon and Mr Archibald on their toes by keeping up a brisk hiking pace throughout the day. Staff also praised the group for staying calm during times when six snakes were noticed along the hiking trails.

The cool nights meant a spot around the camp fire was the hot ticket item after a day of checking out the natural surroundings. With plenty of conversations had amongst the students and not phone in sight, it may have been favourite part of the trip for the staff involved. Outdoor cooking and cleaning underneath the stars seemed joyful, rather than a chore. This was especially evident as Deklyan Edmonds and Briana Diver found joy in comparing dirty soap stains on their hands. Topping the trip off with smores and toasted marshmallows and all in all was a successful first camp for the year ten group. A big thanks to Miss Bullen, Miss Wilson and Miss Talbot for giving up their time to help students enjoy a once in a lifetime experience. Now looking onwards to the next camp located within the Great Otway National Park and on the Murray River.