Year Eight Camp: Falls Creek

But what happens if it rains?

Are we there yet?

Do I boil the water first then add the rice or vice versa?

Does this pole thing for my tent go here or here?

Well… after a couple of years of COVID restrictions, especially in relation to hiking and camping in tents, it was an absolute delight to get back to the Victorian Alps, specifically the regions of Mt Beauty, Falls Creek and Pretty Valley.

Once again the Staff were assembled, (sometimes referred to as the A Team) with a few newbies. Despite some last minute Covid “scares,” we were off with 95 keen, enthusiastic, inquisitive students.

Packing Day on the Monday 4th April always carries a lot of energy and curious minds; “What group am I in? Where are we camping? How far do we have to walk? What will we eat?” and a lot of “what happens if…”

The gear gathered from home somehow finds its way into the packs supplied, much like trying to squeeze a slightly agitated elephant into a telephone box…almost Tardus like (quote - Doctor Who). But surprisingly, just like the previous 25+ years, the clothes, the food, the sleeping bag, tent, jackets bedrolls and “EXTRA stuff” all seem to magically disappear. Eureka…Stage 1 completed….

After an early start on Tuesday morning, we arrived at our regular kick off point, Mt Beauty Caravan Park. The first night, whilst a sort of “glamping” experience is designed to allow ALL of us to check tents, food allocations and to dine along the banks of the Kiewa River.

The next three days were then spent:

• transporting the six groups to various parts of Falls Creek. 
• exploring the local region with day packs via the Australian Alpine Track
• visiting the peak of Mt Cope, and the famous long-standing huts (Wallace, Cope, Fitzgerald’s, Kelly’s)
• sleeping, foraging, tenting, cooking and cleaning up in the rain and 
• trying to find that last pair of clean, dry socks

Although we were not blessed with the best of weather, yes it was a bit cloudy and damp, “Scottish Mist” – (yes Goggle it), I hope that a positive memory was created for all who ventured. 

“The benefits of Camp fire chats, an electronic free environment, storytelling and educating in a space with no walls  should never be underestimated.” 

Whilst I recognise that camping and hiking is not in everyone’s favourite top 10 things to do, I applaud all of you for the challenge you took on and the ability to adapt to some very testing conditions.

“Adventurous experiences out-of-doors are perceived to kindle the enthusiasm of the young, to develop their concern for others, for their community and for the environment. Such experiences provide the means of self-discovery, self-expression and enjoyment which are at once both stimulating and fulfilling. 

It thus emerges that, for young people and adults alike, outdoor adventure is perceived as a vehicle for building values and ideals, for developing creativity and enterprise, for enhancing a sense of citizenship, and for widening physical and spiritual horizons.”

Lord Hunt of Llanfair Waterdine, KC, CBE, DSO

With thanks to all again, staff and students alike…...

Mr Graham Crickmore

Head of Camps