A total of 26 Cadets and 7 staff participated in this semester’s Challenge Camp at the Swan Valley Adventure Centre, and it was an experience to remember!
The Cadets were put to the test with a series of challenging activities, each designed to push them beyond their comfort zones. The day began with the mid-ropes course, where Cadets bravely climbed the ladder, overcoming their personal fears of heights. Next, they took on the Flying Fox, with every Cadet getting multiple turns to soar across the course—some even found the courage to let go and turn upside down! The day concluded with the notoriously muddy and wet commando course, where Cadets crawled, climbed, and swung their way through obstacles, embracing the challenge with enthusiasm.
On Monday night, the Cadets gathered around a campfire—a first for some—where the scent of toasting marshmallows filled the air. Around the fire, they listened to an Indigenous Dreamtime story about the formation of the Milky Way, making for a memorable end to the day.
Tuesday offered a more relaxed pace, with a bushcraft session where Cadets learned essential survival skills, including shelter building and fire safety. Afterward, they participated in a scavenger hunt, exploring the natural landscape of the Centre and earning points along the way.
We were also delighted to have the school Principal, Mr. Gurr, visit on Tuesday morning. He brought coffee for Ms. Werner which was a staff raffle prize. The Cadets were eager to share the stories of their challenge activities with him.
A huge congratulations to all the Cadets who attended the camp. You faced your personal challenges head-on, and your instructors could not be prouder of your efforts and courage.
A special thanks also goes to all the staff who attended and assisted in organizing the camp. Your dedication and support are truly appreciated and are an essential part of what makes our Bush Rangers program so successful.