On Monday 2nd December, we set off for Albert Town Year 10 Camp. A long bus ride awaited us but after a 90 minutes we got to stop in Roxborough for lunch in the only sunshine we had all week. A few stops later we finally arrived at the place that would be our home for the week - Outlet Camping ground.

As soon as we stepped out of the bus we could see it was about to pour down, so we quickly put our tents up and unloaded the bus. Before it rained we went on a short walk then chilled out in tents and waited for our deluxe Albert Town chicken burgers and cheesecake.

The next day we went for an adventurous bike ride along the Outlet and Hawea River trails. We were riding alongside the Clutha River and because the persistent rain throughout the night, some of the track was covered with water nearly thigh deep! The views were beautiful, and we only saw a few runners on the track who also had wet socks and shoes. We stopped for a quick lunch at the DOC Albert Town camp ground then got back on our bikes for some more riding. After our bike ride we had down time to shower and recover before eating delicious nachos for dinner.

Wednesday was another very wet day which saw a rise in the water levels of Lake Wanaka and flooding in the main township. We change our plans and had a combined day with the Mt Aspiring camp group. Our morning activity was ironically swimming at the Wanaka indoor pool then to the after lunch private screening of the yet to be released, ‘Adam’s Family’. Popcorn and freshly baked cookies were delivered at intermission.

Unfortunately due to the weather and camping conditions, we came home one day early, but not before we got to try out our climbing skills at Basecamp Wanaka Clip’n Climb and indoor climbing wall.

It was an amazing week where all the students demonstrated a positive and cheerful attitude, engaged with one another and the environment, and developed their resilience under tough camping conditions. The staff were very proud of all the students on this camp. Thank you to Miss Young, Mr McGowan and Miss Law for all the work they contributed towards keeping us feed, safe and entertained throughout the four days.