Duke of Ed Excursion

Duke of Edinburgh Award

Last Thursday and Friday 11 students from year 9 undertook the practice journey for their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award.

The students have spent time at school over the last few weeks preparing for the expedition. This included brushing up on their navigation and map skills, creating a meal plan and looking at what equipment and clothing they needed to take.

It was an early start on Thursday 24th October as we had to arrive at the edge of a state forest 40 mins north of Goulburn by lunchtime. Met by their instructor, the students packed their backpacks and plotted a route for the next 2 days.

While the actual number of kms covered is not a lot, it is a very steep and loose scramble down to the camp area, especially as the students have large, very heavy backpacks on. After a few hrs the students arrived at a beautiful open grassy area in a deep valley with a pretty mountain river running through. Tents were erected and they set about cooking their own dinners.

Friday was extremely hot so the students decided it would be better to get up early and try and get back early. They had to put their navigation skills to the test, finding a path through dense bushland and rocky outcrops. Their goal was to find a steep gully called lemon juice to climb back out. It was a very hot, loose and steep climb, but the teamwork and comradery shown amongst the group made it seem easier.

As assessors, we were extremely impressed with the groups fitness and navigation skills, but most of all the way they helped and supported each other through the various challenges. We are all excited for the assessment expedition in June.

Mr Segrave and Miss Vardanega