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Photo by Cheree Henderson

Year 12 Physical Education - Moke Lake

Mrs M Clements, Physical Education —

Students in Year 12 Physical Education embarked on a three day camp at the end of Term Three. Our destination was Moke Lake between Queenstown and Glenorchy. We set off on Wednesday morning with bright sunny skies and the hope of exciting things ahead. We arrived at the Twelve Mile Delta, loaded our packs on our back and set off on the Mt Crichton Loop track. After twenty minutes of walking, the smiles had gone and sweat had gathered on our foreheads as the track wound its way up and up. We continued from the loop past Lake Fitzpatrick towards Moke Lake. The highlight for some was trying to get close to the high country cattle who were a little intrigued by our introductions but ultimately skittish in their response. As Moke Lake came into view, Mrs Boomer suggested running for the final few kilometers and invited any interested sets of legs to join her. Several crazy students took up the challenge and set off running the final leg. Tents were set up, cookers came out and several delicious meals were enjoyed by some hungry souls.

Thursday provided a whole new set of challenges as the rain came in and the wind got up which meant our kayaking session was not able to run. Fortunately the first group of students were able to set off nice and early on their mountain bike ride which included 27 river crossings. Much fun was had attempting river crossings on our bikes despite the very cold conditions. We then decided to head away from camp for the afternoon to seek warmth and shelter at the Queenstown Events Centre. Heading back to camp late afternoon was a gloomy affair as the rain had not stopped and the second bike ride was looking marginal. However, after a quick discussion and shortened planned route, the second group headed towards the hills and the ice cold river! Photo evidence suggests that many students spent more time falling in the water with their bikes last seen heading down stream! A very entertaining ride for most.

On the final day of camp, we packed up our tents and headed to the Queenstown Wharf for our jet boat trip up the Kawarau and Shotover rivers. Lots of screaming was heard from both boats as the drivers insisted on performing 360 degree spins at top speed. Luckily our breakfast stayed down. Our final destination was Highland Park in Cromwell where the competition for the fastest go kart lap was pretty intense. It was a quiet van ride back to school where we were all pretty excited to sleep in our own beds knowing it was now the school holidays. 

Overall, Moke Lake camp was a great camp experience and we are always thankful to our wonderful staff who come along and make it enjoyable.