Year 5 Outdoor Education Camp – Tallong

Despite the steady rain drenching the streets of Darlinghurst, the Year 5 SCEGGS students set off for their camp to Tallong with unwavering enthusiasm and refused to let the gloomy weather dampen their spirits. Laughter and excitement filled the air as they boarded the bus, their faces bright with anticipation for the adventure ahead. Their resilience shone through, proving that a little rain was no match for their eagerness to embrace the challenges and fun that awaited them in the Southern Highlands. Fortunately, by the second day, the clouds parted, and the sun poked through and by Friday it was blue skies galore, which helped keep spirits consistently high!

Throughout the 3-day camp, the girls demonstrated a great understanding of the Southbound motto ‘challenge by choice’ to push themselves outside their comfort zone. With the support of their camp leader and group buddies, they tackled the high ropes course and giant’s ladder with determination and teamwork and paddled persistently across the water in canoes. Immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Tallong, they took a bushwalk where they learned about the traditional owners of the land, deepening their appreciation for the history and culture that surrounded them. They also took moments to pause and listen to the sounds of the bush, a far cry from the hustle and bustle of the inner city of Sydney. They learnt how to better navigate through the bush with orienteering skills, and jumped on mountain bikes, to either build on or extend their bike riding skills.

We couldn’t write about this camp without giving a special mention to the Tallong chef, fondly known as ‘Chef-ree’. His joyful demeanour and engagement with the SCEGGS students and teachers were notable. And the delicious, warming food he produced ensured we were all very well fuelled to keep the energy levels up for all activities.

It was wonderful to see the girls strengthen existing friendships but also branch out to connect some more with others they haven’t spent as much time with yet. The teachers were purposeful in their groupings in cabins and day groups to encourage this and it allowed for a lovely dynamic.

I would like to thank all the Year 5 students, the SCEGGS staff (Mr Hammond, Ms O’Brien, Mrs Ryan and Mrs Ward) and the team from Southbound Adventures who so enthusiastically contributed to the 3-day trip and helped to make the camp a real success!

Sarah Johnstone
Deputy Head of Primary (Student Wellbeing)