by Bryce Denny
Between March 14 and 17, our Year 7s spent four days at Christian Youth Camp (CYC) in Cowes. Throughout that time we explored some of Phillip Island and had our days packed with activities. CYC itself had much to offer. Their ‘High Swing’ tested our nerve, though students met this daunting activity with enthusiasm. The Flying Fox and trampolines were less nerve-racking experiences, but were popular nonetheless. Many students enjoyed mountain bike rides and took on the mechanical climbing wall. Indoor activities included table tennis, pool and ‘Ed’s Alley’, which became a favourite. Mr Denny suffered defeat after defeat on this nineteenth century style saloon game: The students proved far superior! However, the swimming pool was a favourite for most, and on more than occasion, the students refreshed themselves after a hot, action packed day.
We also had other great experiences around the island. All students went to A Maze N Things. This gave them the opportunity to try a ‘high-ropes’ circuit. It did not look so high from the ground, but proved to be an adrenalin rush. Students also enjoyed the mind-boggling mini-golf course, and got lost in the mirror maze, among various other labyrinthine and puzzling activities. Many of our students also went surfing at Smiths Beach. The instructors here and the consistent break are famed for getting people standing on a surfboard, and our experience was no exception.
For me personally, the highlight of the camp was the Penguin Parade on Wednesday night. The penguins were quite interesting, but what impressed me was our students. Surrounded by tourists and other schools, the crew from Lilydale Heights was fantastic. They demonstrated our school values of excellence with their polite behaviour, responsibility by being mindful of their environment, and respect by considering others around them and keeping the noise levels down. It made me feel proud to be part of our school community.
Other evening activities included an evening beach walk and disco. On the beach walk, Ms Serle led a handstand and cartwheel competition that gave several students the opportunity to amaze us with their athletic ability. The disco on our final evening rocked with the beats of D.J. Grouse (AKA Mr Smith), and had nearly all the students engaged. However, there were some that joined me in a game of ‘Uno’ that had quite possibly the longest list of rules of any card game in history.
Given that the objective of the camp was for students to get to know one another and their teachers better, it was great success. Like any camp, we had our ‘ups’ and ‘downs’. However, I’m sure that all students will take away lasting memories. I would like to thank all the staff who attended that, in their own ways, contributed to looking after the students and making this camp a great experience. You are a reflection of the professionalism and student-centred approach that makes our school such a great place. However, I would mostly like to thank all the Year 7s for being such a great group to share this experience with. The Junior School Team looks forward to seeing this great behaviour and enthusiasm continue into Term 2 and beyond.
