Discover the Outdoors

Discovering The Outdoors Camp

Last week, the year 9 class of DTO set out for 3 days in the wilderness down at Warburton.  Led by Ms Malander and Mr Gillespie, both experts in the field of hiking and camping, we were all set for the experience of the year. It started off on day 1 with a sneaky bakery stop, which provided all of the classmates with happiness and a sugar rush for days. 

After checking in and setting up the campsite at Warburton caravan park, we set out for the summit of Mt Donna Buang. With a 1.2km walk and 150 metres of elevation gain, it was probably one of the toughest walks of the trip. When we eventually did get to the summit, 1265 metres above sea level, it was a sight to behold, even with the fog restricting our view a bit. Unfortunately, this fog stopped our plan to have dinner up on Mt Donna Buang at sunset but it was still fascinating to see. 

After arriving back at the campsite, the afternoon was filled with fun games of cards and kicking the footy before a barbeque filled with sausages and bread wrapped up what was a great day of hiking and smiles. Just before we all said goodnight, we awarded our first camper of the day award, for Mental Toughness and Mental Fortitude. This sacred award was given to Sam D on the first day, as voted by his peers. 

Day 2 began with almost 30 kmph winds which provided the class with a great challenge; to see if they could keep their tent from blowing away. Thankfully, the sun rose quickly and the biggest walk of the trip was upon us, the O’Shannassy aqueduct trail. 

The hike started with a massive slope, and while it may have discouraged other experienced walkers, this slope was no match for the class of Year 9 DTO. We powered up the hill with smiles and laughter, and helped each other to succeed, all of us displaying mental toughness and mental fortitude. The walk was filled with nature, beautiful sights and fantastic photography. As we arrived back at Warburton, we stopped off at the RSL peace garden for mindfulness and rest. This was shown by most of the students, but most exemplified by Caitlan, Zoe, Tilly, Audrey, Bella, and Liam, who all enjoyed a nice nap. The walk ended on a slightly sour note when Archie decided this was the right place to go head to head with a tree, which required 3 of the finest stitches at a local GP. 

The afternoon was filled with more cards and the playground, where many people enjoyed the sand pit and a nice rest. Dinner was eaten with a fire and the learning of new friends was common as everyone socialized for the evening. Archie was awarded the camper of the day award for his mental toughness and mental fortitude after dancing with a tree in the peace garden. 

Day 3 started with a drive to the top of Mt Donna Buang, hoping to see snow and frost. While we got frost, it wasn’t enough for snow, there were some flakes, although it definitely was a nice way to wake up in the morning. After packing up the campsite and making sure we kept our footprint to a minimum, we set out for the final walk of the trip, the La La falls. 

While the walk was reasonably mild compared to the other walks, the views were outstanding, and all of the students enjoyed the experience. After finishing the walk and another quick stop at the bakery, we headed home to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep and a hot shower. Ansel was awarded the camper of the day and all winners were photographed with their prizes, one of ex AFL player Daniel Menzel’s beanies. 

We’d like to thank Ms Malander and Mr Gillespie for organizing such a brilliant and fun camp. We would also like to thank the students for getting so involved in the camp and enjoying themselves. We hope that the future DTO classes enjoy this camp as much as we did. 

Written by Lachlan H, 909