While many students spent the first week of the school holidays unwinding, twenty-five brave and adventurous students from Years 3 to 6 embraced the challenge of Survival Camp. Held in mid-winter for the first time, this camp tested the resilience and determination of these young explorers, and they all passed with flying colours!
The adventure began with the recruits learning to march before an inspiring visit to the Army Museum. In the afternoon, they tackled an adrenaline-pumping ‘Ninja’-style obstacle course at SA Base Camp, scaling vertical walls and overcoming various challenges.
On the second day, the students teamed up with Beyond Limits for a morning of archery skill-building and archery ‘dodge ball’. For lunch, the cadets demonstrated their culinary talents by preparing hot dogs and noodles on Trangias. The afternoon was dedicated to team-building activities and navigation lessons, further honing their survival skills.
Midweek, the cadets ventured to Belair National Park, where they practiced using survival tools such as woodsaws, penknives, and firelighters. They also mastered essential knots, including the bowline and highwayman’s hitch, and put their skills to the test by building shelters, spears, and fires.
Thursday marked the start of an immersive two-day camp at Woodhouse. The cadets faced the challenging task of building fires with damp wood, flint, steel, and a small piece of cotton wool. After lunch, they engaged in an exhilarating ‘Laser Skirmish’ battle and tackled the challenges of Challenge Hill. Despite their exhaustion, the cadets returned to camp, rekindled their fires, and cooked dinner on Trangias. As the temperature dropped, the camp moved to the Manor House, where the students embarked on a night hike and enjoyed roasting marshmallows over the fire.
The final day was packed with excitement. After breakfast, the students scaled a 16-metre high rock climbing wall and experienced the thrill of South Australia’s longest flying fox. Back at school for a well-deserved pizza lunch, the cadets spent the afternoon relaxing with movies and snacks.
Survival Camp was a testament to the incredible courage, teamwork, and resilience of our students. They embraced challenges head-on and created memories that will last a lifetime.
