At camp with 10G

The chat in the bus was high-spirited as the lads travelled safely to the lodge and worked together to get in and settled for their week.  

 

Once the lodge was set up for the week, they were rewarded with an afternoon of swimming at Wishbone Falls and hanging out around the river, before heading home to the lodge to prepare dinner for each other. With only three teachers on camp and no Year 13s, the Year 10s stepped up and took the initiative to help run the lodge and care for each other. 

 

Sunday was our white-water day. The lads enjoyed kayaking down the Matukituki under the expert guidance of Mr. Sullivan.  Most stayed upright, although none stayed dry, and fun was had by all. 

 

Sunday night and Monday saw the onset of some inclement weather. However, this would not stop 10G, who handled this gracefully and enjoyed the opportunities the lodge offers. 

 

Tuesday was our overnight expedition to the East Branch - Triangle Rock.  The lads had a successful night in the camp, fishing, swimming, and talking around the campfire. After a late wake up to our beautiful waterfront view, we spent Wednesday checking out a few more waterfalls and glaciers before hiking home to the lodge in the afternoon sun.  This teacher is happy to report that 10G of 2025 is, without a doubt, the fastest walking group he has gone away with at OBHS so far.  What a feeling to get back into camp!

 

Thursday was the big clean-up morning, as we raced to get everything sorted and get out to meet the bus for our journey home.  

 

A massive thank you must go to Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Mackinnon, who were brilliant teacher leaders. It is something special that we have teachers who will give up their weekends away from their own families and commitments. These two gentlemen worked 12 days straight so that our lads can have such a meaningful and life-changing experience. You two are legends!

 

The lads were a fantastic group to have away, and families can be very proud of them.