Our Year 10 camp at Araluen Lutheran Camp in Anglesea was definitely a trip to remember. It was just one night, from Thursday to Friday, but it felt like we packed so much into such a short time.
Upon arrival, we met the lovely camp staff and found our perfectly arranged cabins (huge thanks to Mrs Blythe who spent hours organising them so we could all be with our best friends) and dropped our bags off, before heading off on a scenic walk along the river and coastline. The views were amazing, and the fresh air and beach vibes instantly put everyone in a good mood. Later that afternoon, we got to choose between a relaxing yoga session or a pottery class with a fabulous, local artist Kirsty. Personally, I picked pottery, and learnt so many unique things from Kirsty, but also found that it was a great way to chill out and do something a bit different. Some of my friends who did the yoga class admired Emma for her calmness and serenity and walked out of their session feeling beyond peaceful and relaxed.
At the camp itself, there was heaps to do during our free time. The place had everything, including an activity room with a pool table and table tennis, trampolines, a playground, archery, beach volleyball, ovals, a basketball ring, and even a low ropes course! There was always a volleyball game in action any time we walked past the court, and the low ropes course was also a very popular activity. Both encouraged us to bond with our peers and strengthen our teamwork skills tremendously.
For lunch, we had burgers, which hit the spot after the walk. For dinner, the wonderful camp staff spoiled us with homemade fish, chips and a salad and during the meal we were lucky enough to have a trivia sheet organized by Talarah O and Georgie R. It had general knowledge questions and fun throwbacks to memories from our earlier school years. It was hilarious trying to remember certain things and seeing how competitive some people got.
That night, we had a 2000’s-themed disco, and it was so much fun. A bunch of us dressed up, and everyone got involved. We danced to the 2000’s music playlist organised by our arts leaders Georgia N and Jaz H, laughed, and just had a great time together. Afterwards, many of us watched the Geelong Cats vs Bulldogs AFL game, which was really close and intense, people definitely got into this activity!
The next day started with pancakes and toast for breakfast. We got to choose between staying at the camp for more activities or going to the beach to play games and complete more of the camp’s activities. No matter which choice people made, there was even more fun and memories made at these activities, and it was a great way to spend our last few hours before packing up.
Before heading back to school, we made one final stop at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery. Clonard treated us all to one of their homemade ice creams (which was delicious!), and most of us couldn’t resist buying some chocolate too. It was the perfect way to end the trip.
Overall, the camp was such a good time, full of fun, laughter, and some really great memories with friends and teachers. I’m honestly so grateful we had such a wonderful opportunity.
Gabrielle Blythe
Wellbeing Community Leader: Yr 10
