The first three days of camp we were set to sleep in tents, this annoyed most of us because we were camping out on the Wambana campus and the Wardli were about 100 metres away. But it was okay, because we were doing the cycle tour at this time, and it was better returning to the same place every night, rather than packing everything up every day and setting it up again that night...
I shared a tent with Turns (Jams Turner) and Corz (Corey DeCandia), it was great fun for most of the time, but after three days of solid riding and not having access to a warm shower that we wanted to use, it started to smell a bit, especially Turns. But having three people in our group was a massive advantage, because we got a massive tent and could fit all our bags and everything inside, while everyone else has smaller tents and couldn't fit everything inside. We also had two trangia's to cook on, while everyone else had one, and besides the cleaning, this was a massive advantage for us. We also all had a goal to get very fit and much stronger by the end of camp, so we started by pushing eachother, both on the bik ride and our daily push ups and sit ups before bed, so it was a good combination between us three, besides the fact that no one wanted to clean anything.
By this time of the extended stay program it still felt like a normall camp of 3 or 4 days. But when we throught about it, we had about 3 more weeks, and we were already physically and mentally tired, but still couldn't wait for the rest of the camp.
Overall, the time in the tent was good but not great. We worked well together, but did have the ocassional mishaps. It was awesome fun at times, but we all just couldn't wait to get into a Wardli and have a shower and have a better sleep. But it was still a good experience and good fun.
Saturday 2nd May 2009
Today we moved into our Wardli's. It was great to know that we wouldn't have to cook on trangia's any more, or have to sleep on mats that are approximately half a centimetre thick. Also knowing that I wouldn't have to sleep almost on top of other boys and I would get to sleep in a bed of my own. Overall, I was quite excited about moving into my Wardli, especially because I had a good Wardli group.
The transition was quite annoying, because we had to get everything out of our other tents, and our other bags, and convert them into the room we were staying in. Therefore, we had to take everything out of our tents, including the dirt, and pack them away, as well as cleaning our trangia's, as well as moving in, and as well as getting the Wardli's all organised, hence we had a busy day.
We also learnt about free time and how that works, as well as learning about chill out time and learning where our spots were for this. But after this it was about 6:00 and we were to start cooking dinner. This was when we met our two nannys who help us out when we were cooking dinner.
Overall, I was stoked to have moved from the tents into our Wardli's and be able to live in a house.
Monday 5th May 2009
We have recently moved into the Wardli’s and are starting to realise the stress of living together, and getting along as ‘one big happy family’. We have three bedrooms in the Wardli, and 6 people, hence there are 2 people sharing a room: Gavin and Campbell, Callum and Ned, and Logan and myself. These are all functioning bedrooms except for Callum and Ned, who have a bit of a conflict and had been paired up due to there being no one else left.
It has been an interesting transition time for our Wardli, with the shopping, the cleaning and generally helping each other wherever possible. With not everyone willing to do the hard work to keep the Wardli clean and not everyone getting on, at sometimes we have been in complete havoc. But for most of the time we have gotten along well, and made a joke out of most of the situations. After the scare of nearly getting kicked out on the first night, we have learned to function well and keep the house in supreme running order.
Tuesday 6th May 2009
The extended stay program has been an extremely enjoyable experience for me to this point, and I hope that it continues that way for the remainder of the stay. Despite the amount of fun I am having over the camp, I still look at how many days I have been here and how many days I have left, and I am flabbergasted. I realise that we have so much time left, and that I still won’t get to see my parents for a few weeks yet, and if it was any other camp it would probably be finished by now.
I am missing my family and everyone back home, but I definitely wouldn’t give up this camp just to go back. I love the co-curriculum activities we are experiencing that we wouldn’t get a chance to do back in normal school life, as well as the fitness program and the chance to build yourself up physically.
Thursday 8th May 2009
We have been living in our Wardli’s for longer now, and after improving as a Wardli, we have once again fallen back down into a small hole. We have started to fight and argue on a regular basis, but still manage to get everything done. We still haven’t got around to sitting around together and having a Wardli meeting and sorting everything out between each other. Also, by this time we are meant to of had at least one meeting, and yet we are probably the most disfunctioning Wardli, and we still haven’t had a meeting.
Although we haven’t functioned so well together, we have still been at least passing the inspections every day, until our latest scare. With us starting to relax and thinking we wouldn’t get kicked out and we were doing fine, we got taken 7.5 points away from us, leaving 2.5 points left. On this same inspection Wardli 5 got kicked out, so we weren’t the only Wardli that began to relax, but I’m sure that they were more functioning than us at the time. This was leading to another Wardli meeting really soon…
Saturday 10th May 2009
Today we met James Ellis and learnt about the Hooded Plover for the first time. We learnt about how the Hooded Plover is seriously vulnerable and needs to be looked after. We met him at Ethel Beach after he had been surfing and we set off to West Bay beach to look and record information about the Hooded Plover.
For the rest of the day we went to Dolphin Bay to write a poem. It was the most beautiful beach in the world, even despite the cold weather it still invited for a nice, warm swim. It had some greatly shaped rocks, with the great surrounding of the scrub. It was a beautiful place, the greatest beach I have ever been to and I would love to visit it again.
Tuesday 12th May 2009
Today we had to be at the shed at 6:30 instead of 7:00, because of the NAPLAN tests that we had early in the morning. We got up, and arrived at the shed with everyone half asleep and yawning but still ready to go and have a power training.
When we arrived at Flaherty's Beach we immediately got into some hard training, as we had limited time today than usual. We didn't spend long at the beach, but the time we were there we definitely worked hard. Having to do rapid sprints, turns and push ups, it wasn't easy.
When we arrived back we had to get ready to meet at the classroom quicker than usual, for the tests, and we all had to have a shower before we came.
Soon after we arrived at the classroom ready to take our NAPLAN compulsory tests. Dale read out the details and we started, with everyone trying to perform at their best, despite the lack of classroom conditions and how sleep thirsty we were. I tried my best but regrettably afterwards I thought I could have done better.
Wednesday 13th May 2009
Today I woke up early, as I was leader and went around to every Wardli and woke everyone up and told them to get ready for our run. It was a 3.4 km, but it was significant because it was the last run before the 11 kilometre. As I was leader, I decided to run with my room mate Logan. He is not as good of a runner as myself, so I helped him out, and I really admired him this morning. He had never ran the whole 3.4 kilometres going into the run, but with me in his ear telling him to run the whole way without stopping to improve his time, he ran the whole way, not stopping once, pushing through all the pain that confronted him, and bettered his time by over a minute. I was very proud of Logan this morning, and I know he will continue to better his time now that he knows he can run through the pain.
After that we headed off the the classroom to participate in another NAPLAN test. I thought I did better this time :).
Thursday 14th May 2009
Once again we had to wake up at 6:30 this morning, because we had some more NAPLAN tests early on in the day. We were set to play another game, and I was determined to play footy for as change, but as we woke up so early the sun was not yet out and we were forced to either have a casual strol along the beach, or do some push-ups or sit-ups on a mat, I was deeply dissapointed.
After this, we participated in the two NAPLAN mathematics papers. For me, this was quite easy, and I hope that I only got minimal questions wrong.
Today we once again had Sea Kayaking, and I noticed over the last two days of Sea Kayaking, I have worn my skins and my thermal, and have realised how much they have helped me to stay warm, and keep my body right before the 11 kilometre run. Which brings me to the subject of the 11 kilometre run. It is tomorrow! And I am trying to repare myself for what seems like a marathon run for everyone. Trying to get my body and mind ready for tomorrow. Until then, I wait...
Friday 15th May 2009
We all woke up, with the dredding thought of running 11 kilometres in our mind. We all had to be phisically prepared -- which we had been preparing for over the last 3 weeks -- and mentally prepared, which became totally up to our mental toughness.
We jumped on the bus all a bit nervous, but I couldn't wait for it to start. The way I saw it, the quicker we started, the quicker it finished... So from the start I was ready to go. 56 Minutes later, I had finally finished, but I decided to walk back amoung the people yet to finish and will them on, make them determined to finish as quick as they could. After jogging back 2 kilometres I ran with Rafae, pushing him to the finish, where he didn't walk the whole sand trail. Everyone was so proud of him.
Later on in the day, I prepared to go to the parent weekend, when Turns and Zee, anounced that they were staying at the Marion Bay Motel with me, I was over happy. Because I got to share the motel with two of my closest mates. Also, when we were having dinner at the Marion Bay Tavern, about 5 other boys from the class showed up and we had a great time.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Instructional Entry
Sunday 3rd May 2009
On Sunday we learnt how to cook and make anzac biscuits. Moff explained this by making us draw a bowl and a soucepan, and write the ingredients that were needed in each under them.
Under the bowl we wrote as follows;
On Sunday we learnt how to cook and make anzac biscuits. Moff explained this by making us draw a bowl and a soucepan, and write the ingredients that were needed in each under them.
Under the bowl we wrote as follows;
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup coconut
Under the soucepan we wrote as follows;
- 25g butter
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup
-------------------------------------
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon bi-carb
Then after all that we ruled another line and recorded the steps to making the Anzac Biscuits. They were as follows;
- Mix ingredients in bowl
- Melt butter and golden syrup together in soucepan
- Add water and bi-carb to soucepan
- Add to bowl
- Mix with spoon then hands
- Lay on baking tray like shown:
_O__O__O__O__O__O__O__O__O__O__O_ ______________________________________
- The anzac biscuits must be walnut sized - they will compress
- The biscuits must be positioned on baking paper
- Which is then places on a baking tray
- Cook in oven at 175 degrees for 15-20 minutes
After we wrote this down we went and cooked the biscuits, they were delicious :). I strongly recommend them!
Novel
The Other Side of Dawn
John Marsden
First published 1999 in Macmillan by Pan Macmillan Australia Pty Limited
First published 200 in Pan by Pan Macmillan Australia Pty Limited
First published 200 in Pan by Pan Macmillan Australia Pty Limited
1 Market Street, Sydney
Dedicated to the people of Tibet, East Timor, and West Papua (Irian Jaya)
The Other Side of Dawn, is a continuation of the award winning series 'The Tomorrow Series', and is in fact the last book of the series, and is seen as the best book in the hit series.
It is set in the outback of Australia, in a small town called Wirrawee, in the time of a massive war. But the book doesn't just stay in Wirrawee, it moves to towns close by also, Stratton for example. It is based around a group of teenagers who have adopted some feral kids in the war. The book is in fact written by the main character, Ellie, and is revolved around her life as well as being in twined with her friends.
The book takes place in the middle of a mass invasion from a foreign country. At the time Ellie and her friends were out camping and came back to an invaded country side, and once they realised what was happening, they started to rebel against the invaders, the 'enemy', and become full time guerrillas.
In the book there are 5 major teenage characters and 4 feral kids who play a seriously minor role, they are as follows;
- Ellie: The main character who writes the book to escape from the reality of war. She is almost a co-leader with Homer. She takes charge when she needs to and shows dominant leadership within the group. In a tough situation she performs with her heart and instinct and puts things in fast forward, letting things pan out how they do in the heat of the moment. She is in love with fellow group member Lee and has been through plenty with him. Overall, she is a tough character, who is a massive bonus to the group and will never go down without a fight.
- Homer: The dominant male leader in the group, and the overall leader of the group. Since the start of the war, he has been switched on and ready to act when he has to. He has a brain fit for war and strategies, and when it comes to a battle he usually comes out on top. He also has a love for Fi, which he almost tries to hide from the group. He is a tough, willing and canny character who boosts the group immensely.
- Lee: The other half of Ellie's love affair. He has been through endless amounts with Ellie, including the good and the bad. Over the course of the war he has adjusted to the circumstances improving in a war sense, and as the war increases in age he continues to become more dangerous to the enemy.
- Fi: Is the quiet, 'city-slicker' of the group who in not experienced in 'hands on' activity. She has a love for Homer, but likes to keep it a secret, sneaking away with him rather than being open about it letting the group understand. Over the time of the war she has changed, being able to fire weapons and arm bombs and hold her own in a fight. She has extremely improved her character and now couldn't be broken down by anyone.
- Kevin: Is resented by Ellie ever since one of the attacks they did, where he froze being unable to go through with the task he was set which cost the group more than they could afford. Since this accident he has gone back into his shell, and compared to the rest of the group is seriously lacking in character.
- Gavin: The first of the feral kids. He has gone deaf in the war, in an action incident, but definitely doesn't let him get down. He is always mucking around and finding fun for himself. He has a strong character and would take on anyone no matter who they are.
- The other 3 ferals: Leave the book early when they leave in a helicopter, and have been through a lot having little character and hanging onto their desired teenager. They are all tough and have survived in the war for the whole time, but are sent away for safety, also because they get in the way.
Ellie and Homer are the two most influential people in the whole book, and are both very alike also. They have known each other since birth, and have grown up living only a farm apart. Fighting each other, always being close to each other and not willing to share each other. They, together, are both great leaders, and force the group to become better around them. They help everyone out, in any way, physically, mentally and emotionally, whenever it is needed. In a crisis or action situation they boost the group, and help them overcome the enemy or dilemma. Overall, they are great leaders and interact with everyone in the group very well, and boost the overall capacity of the group immensely.
I recommend this book to be made into a movie. It would be a high action thriller that, I'm sure, would be very popular being remembered by many. The one scene I would take out of the movie, would be the massive scene where Ellie gets captured by the enemy, and goes through pain and suffering in the hospital, while being attacked mentally at the thought of her friends being dead. But, besides this scene the book, and the whole series, could be made into a great movie to be seen and loved around the world by many.
John Marsden has made the book interesting for adolescents, and is also aimed for the adolescent age group. I can tell this, because there is lots of action through out the book, having lots of shoot outs and explosions as well. But it is also based around war, and without a sufficient age, you simply cant understand what is happening, as well as it possibly being to gruesome for a young reader. The language in the book is also quite advanced for young readers. As well as having some passionate love scenes between characters, which would be inappropriate for young readers, but good for adolescents. Overall, the book thoroughly suits adolescents with the way John Marsden wrote the book.
Poetry
Saturday 9th May 2009
As I sat on the rocks at Dolphin Bay, all I could think about was the beautiful beach that was laying in front of me. I then simply wrote about the aspects of the beach that make it what it is. I think that Dolphin Bay is one of the greatest beaches I have ever been at, and I am very privileged to write my poem about this great beach.
The Beach
The waves;
Caress the sand as they roll in,
Crash ever so slightly into the rocks that lie,
Push their way into any vacant place they could possibly convey,
Forcing the world around them to be aware of their presence.
The wind;
Brushes through the hair of occupants like a gentil hand,
Fights its way through the scrub,
Works its way in and around anything that lies in its way,
Making sure that the waves aren't the only thing that contributes to the beautiful scenery of the beach.
The birds;
Fly through the challenging winds,
Glide skillfully no matter if they are a foot or a few hundred metres of sea level,
While making it look easy as they escort themselves to their destination,
It is almost fitting that they fly with the backing track of trickling water.
The sunlight reflects off the water,
Making the beach almost sparkle,
As well as lighting up;
The inviting, beautiful coloured water,
The brilliance of the rock shapes,
The scrub that so fittingly surrounds the beach,
The goldy coloured sand that looks like ever grain had been hand placed.
It lights up the overall picture perfect scene of the beach.
Jack Kelly 9/5/09
Cycle Tour
The Cycle Tour was the first activity we experienced after learning the various different places around the campus, and after hearing nothing but bad reviews about the tour, I really wanted to get on the bike and experience it myself. When I arrived at Wambana I expected the cycle tour to commence straight away, but I was disappointed to find out that it was to start the following morning. I was still happy though, because the tour was our first fitness activity and that was the main thing I was looking forward to over the duration of the camp, the fitness.
Day 1 - Wednesday, 29th April 2009
Early Wednesday morning we were awoken and eager to get on the bikes, but before this we met the two instructors that were going to take us over the duration of the tour, Paul and Em. I was the first to meet them, as I was one, of the allocated two leaders for the day. I was to have a map and direct where we were going, as well as making sure the campus and everywhere we stopped was clean before we left.
We started by heading along the coast on a very bumpy dirt road, that made the majority of the class have sore hands by the time we stopped. But the boys, like myself, who had worn gloves proceeded to be fine.
The next time be stopped was at what was said to be 'The Old Murdoch Place', which was a school back in its day. We got off our bikes and inspected the place, finding a Holden 48, three long drops, and a whole heap of junk inside the house, including some old books that would have been used in the 'one room school'.
Up until this stop Paul had lead the group keeping a steady pace up front so everyone could keep up, but he gave that job over to me as I was the leader. So I led the group, closely followed by Corz, Turns and Shovels.
Day 1 consisted of two sections, before lunch and after lunch. Both were small loops around Pt. Turton, so that we ended up back at the camp site. Together the two sections added up to a grand total of 39 kilometres for day 1. The roads we rode on were mostly dirt roads, with the occasional patch of bitumen. Also, with the occasional break to bunch the group back up. In these breaks we were to have some water and a snack to keep us going. Also, the scenery we past was absolutely beautiful, with everything being so different to the city.
But overall day 1 was a great bike ride for all of us, leaving some eager for the next day, and others not so keen.
Day 2 - Thursday 30th April 2009
After waking up early again for some intense bike riding. With complaints about sore behinds and other muscle soreness, it was essential to properly prepare for the hard day of bike riding ahead. We were driven to Innes National Park, to start our second day of riding, which consisted of 34 kilometres of up and down, hill congested roads.
We started by going up a not very steep hill, but one that felt like it lasted forever. But the reward for getting to the top of that hill was that we got to go down the biggest hill at top speed, and after a small safety talk by Paul we were allowed to go down this hill one at a time. It was a great adrenalin rush.
For the majority of day two, shovels led us at the front of the pack, closely followed by Corz and myself, and most of the day was also on bitumen, and for me, this was the easiest day covering the distance easily.
We stopped off at a very nice beach, and after a small board walk to Pondolowie Bay, to enjoy a scrumptious lunch of tuna with my tent partners Corz and Turns.
After lunch, Shovels started out with a cracking pace after Corz and I had told him to go faster at lunch, and only Corz and myself could keep up. We were absolutely flying, alternating the leader of the pack with the font person riding to the front on a regular basis. After reaching our second intersection we decided to stop, and figured we were probably a few kilometres in front of everyone, and after Dale caught us puffing and panting we realised we were in a bit of trouble, and for the fifth time we had to ride to the back and help everyone else. Dale later addressed the group saying we were probably travelling at an average of 28 kilometres per hour. Bairdy told us not to be proud of this achievement, but secretly we were beaming about it. It was definitely my highlight for the whole cycle tour.
But overall the second day was the greatest day of the cycle tour, and the scenery was just simply amazing. The break spots were stunning and all the scenery we past was brilliant. But we all had to prepare ourselves for the next day, but we couldn't do anything to prepare ourselves for what was coming in day 3...
Day 3 - Friday 1st May 2009
We woke up day 3 ready for a big day of riding, but too our disappointment it was raining. For some of us this was great because they love riding in the rain and through the massive puddles, but for the majority of the class it was shocking as they would rather a nice dry day to ride in. But nonetheless we still had to ride the whole 40 kilometres of the third day, and had to fight over our sore bodies and the horrible weather.
We started by getting dropped off at a track which felt like it was in the middle of nowhere and set off down the muddy track with the rain bearing down our backs. The track was filled with puddles and loose dirt and all other fun things to fly through at incredible pace and it was definitely, for me, the greatest part of day 3. But when we had our first break everyone was covered in mud and complaining. But for a few of us, shovels and myself, we were having a great time and loved riding through track in the conditions. But after getting off the track and onto normal road it got bad for even me and shovs, because there was no puddles or mud to ride through just normal riding, except in rain...
When we stopped Turns and I realised we didn't pack our lunch, so we went on a massive scavenger hunt for anyone with spare food, and after succeeding in that we were set to ride the long ride towards Edithsberg. Most of this ride was along the coastline along bumpy, bumpy tracks.
After carrying our bikes and riding at a very slow pace we finally made it to a large lighthouse where we were set to have lunch. But yet again I had to scavenge for all my food, as well as shield myself from the continuous rain that was pelting down on us.
After the semi enjoyable lunch we set along the bumpiest road that we came across. It was hell, besides the beautiful sights of the sea, riding across that horrible surface. Even Paul hated riding on that road, he said the only reason we ride that road is because Moff wanted to take pictures of the amazing coastline.
But as soon as be go off that horrible road we had about 10 kilometres to Edithsburg and the people who usually were at the back of the pack lead us for the end, while the front people were at the back helping everyone out. While we were on this ride we rode past a wind farm which had about 50 massive wind mills, it was an amazing sight, even with the rain in our face.
After what seemed like forever, we reached Edithburg and everyone was totally relieved, and after putting the bike away and some people having showers, we left and headed back for Wambana.
Overall the cycle tour was both physically and mentally challenging and it was something I was very happy to be a part of. It helped both fitness, and learning to fight through the pain in hard times, as well as putting up with the shocking weather. But it wasn't all hard and painful, it was also fun and when the adrenalin was pumping, the feeling was great.
Day 1 - Wednesday, 29th April 2009
Early Wednesday morning we were awoken and eager to get on the bikes, but before this we met the two instructors that were going to take us over the duration of the tour, Paul and Em. I was the first to meet them, as I was one, of the allocated two leaders for the day. I was to have a map and direct where we were going, as well as making sure the campus and everywhere we stopped was clean before we left.
We started by heading along the coast on a very bumpy dirt road, that made the majority of the class have sore hands by the time we stopped. But the boys, like myself, who had worn gloves proceeded to be fine.
The next time be stopped was at what was said to be 'The Old Murdoch Place', which was a school back in its day. We got off our bikes and inspected the place, finding a Holden 48, three long drops, and a whole heap of junk inside the house, including some old books that would have been used in the 'one room school'.
Up until this stop Paul had lead the group keeping a steady pace up front so everyone could keep up, but he gave that job over to me as I was the leader. So I led the group, closely followed by Corz, Turns and Shovels.
Day 1 consisted of two sections, before lunch and after lunch. Both were small loops around Pt. Turton, so that we ended up back at the camp site. Together the two sections added up to a grand total of 39 kilometres for day 1. The roads we rode on were mostly dirt roads, with the occasional patch of bitumen. Also, with the occasional break to bunch the group back up. In these breaks we were to have some water and a snack to keep us going. Also, the scenery we past was absolutely beautiful, with everything being so different to the city.
But overall day 1 was a great bike ride for all of us, leaving some eager for the next day, and others not so keen.
Day 2 - Thursday 30th April 2009
After waking up early again for some intense bike riding. With complaints about sore behinds and other muscle soreness, it was essential to properly prepare for the hard day of bike riding ahead. We were driven to Innes National Park, to start our second day of riding, which consisted of 34 kilometres of up and down, hill congested roads.
We started by going up a not very steep hill, but one that felt like it lasted forever. But the reward for getting to the top of that hill was that we got to go down the biggest hill at top speed, and after a small safety talk by Paul we were allowed to go down this hill one at a time. It was a great adrenalin rush.
For the majority of day two, shovels led us at the front of the pack, closely followed by Corz and myself, and most of the day was also on bitumen, and for me, this was the easiest day covering the distance easily.
We stopped off at a very nice beach, and after a small board walk to Pondolowie Bay, to enjoy a scrumptious lunch of tuna with my tent partners Corz and Turns.
After lunch, Shovels started out with a cracking pace after Corz and I had told him to go faster at lunch, and only Corz and myself could keep up. We were absolutely flying, alternating the leader of the pack with the font person riding to the front on a regular basis. After reaching our second intersection we decided to stop, and figured we were probably a few kilometres in front of everyone, and after Dale caught us puffing and panting we realised we were in a bit of trouble, and for the fifth time we had to ride to the back and help everyone else. Dale later addressed the group saying we were probably travelling at an average of 28 kilometres per hour. Bairdy told us not to be proud of this achievement, but secretly we were beaming about it. It was definitely my highlight for the whole cycle tour.
But overall the second day was the greatest day of the cycle tour, and the scenery was just simply amazing. The break spots were stunning and all the scenery we past was brilliant. But we all had to prepare ourselves for the next day, but we couldn't do anything to prepare ourselves for what was coming in day 3...
Day 3 - Friday 1st May 2009
We woke up day 3 ready for a big day of riding, but too our disappointment it was raining. For some of us this was great because they love riding in the rain and through the massive puddles, but for the majority of the class it was shocking as they would rather a nice dry day to ride in. But nonetheless we still had to ride the whole 40 kilometres of the third day, and had to fight over our sore bodies and the horrible weather.
We started by getting dropped off at a track which felt like it was in the middle of nowhere and set off down the muddy track with the rain bearing down our backs. The track was filled with puddles and loose dirt and all other fun things to fly through at incredible pace and it was definitely, for me, the greatest part of day 3. But when we had our first break everyone was covered in mud and complaining. But for a few of us, shovels and myself, we were having a great time and loved riding through track in the conditions. But after getting off the track and onto normal road it got bad for even me and shovs, because there was no puddles or mud to ride through just normal riding, except in rain...
When we stopped Turns and I realised we didn't pack our lunch, so we went on a massive scavenger hunt for anyone with spare food, and after succeeding in that we were set to ride the long ride towards Edithsberg. Most of this ride was along the coastline along bumpy, bumpy tracks.
After carrying our bikes and riding at a very slow pace we finally made it to a large lighthouse where we were set to have lunch. But yet again I had to scavenge for all my food, as well as shield myself from the continuous rain that was pelting down on us.
After the semi enjoyable lunch we set along the bumpiest road that we came across. It was hell, besides the beautiful sights of the sea, riding across that horrible surface. Even Paul hated riding on that road, he said the only reason we ride that road is because Moff wanted to take pictures of the amazing coastline.
But as soon as be go off that horrible road we had about 10 kilometres to Edithsburg and the people who usually were at the back of the pack lead us for the end, while the front people were at the back helping everyone out. While we were on this ride we rode past a wind farm which had about 50 massive wind mills, it was an amazing sight, even with the rain in our face.
After what seemed like forever, we reached Edithburg and everyone was totally relieved, and after putting the bike away and some people having showers, we left and headed back for Wambana.
Overall the cycle tour was both physically and mentally challenging and it was something I was very happy to be a part of. It helped both fitness, and learning to fight through the pain in hard times, as well as putting up with the shocking weather. But it wasn't all hard and painful, it was also fun and when the adrenalin was pumping, the feeling was great.
Living In A Wardli
Highs:
- Cooking great meals
- Working together as a group
- Meeting new people
- Getting to know people more
- Sharing a room with a mate
- Helping eachother out
- Everyone doing their own bit
- Being surrounded by mates
- Learning how to use household appliances
- Learning how to cook properly
- Learning new recepies
- Appreciating parents more
- Being independent
Difficulties:
- People slacking off
- Not everyone pulling their weight
- Getting everyone to help
- Always cooking good food
- Managing food
- Having some own privacy
- Finding time for yourself
- Getting sufficient sleep
- People not appriciating your help
- Solving problems
- Using appliances
Fitness Program
Every morning that we have been living in our Wardli's we are obliged to either; run an allocated distance; play a game; or have a power training session. Our runs started, at first, with a 3.4 kilometre run, and are eventually working towards a 11 kilometre run towards the end of the program. The game we play could change every time depending on what the instructor in charge wants to play on the day. While the power training consists of running to Flaherty's beach on a sandy track then doing a series of short sprints, rapid turning, upper body work, etc.
Saturday 2nd May 2009
Today was our first run, and no one was looking forward to it as we were still living in our tents at the time... We approached the shed briskly everyone shivered in the morning cold, with most people dressed in a singlet and short running pants.
Dale started to explain the details of the 3.4 kilometre run and how we time ourselves and so on, and as soon as he finished talking we waited for the clock to tick over to 7:00 and we set off.
I started very gingerly, with concerns of a previous glute injury creeping up on me. I was still cold at the start of the run and had a little limp happening but was still sitting near the front of the pack. I immediately thought 'Next time I'll warm up first'. But I fought through the pain and kept running. I soon started to warm up and it came slightly easier, but the pain was still there. But I soon moved into second position and pulled away from any followers behind me.
I reached the steps still a massive way behind Corey, but I was in front of Favs and Callum behind me by a fair bit. But I was sweating and starting to seriously fatigue, and with my glute I wasn't feeling to great. But I kept running and holding my position. Occasionally I saw the outline of the white singlet of Corey running strongly out in front of me. I kept running and convinced myself I was close to finishing, when I wasn't really.
I eventually got back to the shed still limping and still in pain but happy because I had finished behind Corey who is a strong runner, also I could definitely run faster if my glute didn't hurt me.
Sunday 3rd May 2009
Today was to be seen as worse than yesterday as we were completing a 5.5 kilometre run rather than a 3.4 kilometre run. I arrived at the shed 15 minutes early and started some moving stretches as well as a few stationary stretches, and by the time we started I think that I was almost properly warmed up and ready to run.
I started off straight away from the front running next to Corey. My aim was to stay with him for most of the way and if I had the energy maybe get in front at the end.
By the time we hit the stairs I was still with Corey and he started to complain about his existing back injury but he kept running, but by the time we got to the jetty, Corey was forced to pull out because of his back injury. But I kept running strongly, but without Corey I couldn't quite push myself to get my best time. Despite this I kept running as fast as I could with only Callum and Favs near me.
I ended up finishing with a time of 22:45, I thought this was a good time, but I really had no clue at all. Overall, I thought that the 5.5 kilometre run was a lot easier than the 3.4 kilometre run.
Monday 4th May 2009
Today we participated in a game of modified soccer, which I was not happy because I don't like soccer at all, but since my class is not overly into football we don't play it, which sucks for people like me who all they want to do is play football. But it wasn't too bad... I guess.
We started off with three warm up laps as a group, as well as having a small stretching session. I was glad about this because it meant less time playing soccer.
After this we were allocated into two teams, and the modified rules were that everyone had to be over half way to score a goal, and for every person on the other team who was in your defensive half counts as another goal when you score. This meant that every person had to run up and down the field every possession, and although I didn't overly want to play I still tried and got into it, just pretty much kicking it as far as I could.
I was very happy as soon the game finished because I just wanted to go and have breakfast. If it was a better game I would have wanted to keep playing, but as it was soccer I was relieved.
Tuesday 5th May 2009
Today the fitness program consisted of another 3.4 kilometre run, up to the stairs and back, and 100 sit ups and 100 push ups. I was working hard, determined to break the 14 minute mark, which I did, with a time o 13:50. Just in front of Favs. Corey had a sore back and couldn't push me today, which I was disappointed about. But Favs pushed me as I was determined to beat him, which I successfully did. I was happy because all my injuries I put in the back of my mind and pushed through all the pain. The exercises after the run weren't too hard. I had a small stretching session and easily completed the sit ups and push ups.
Saturday 2nd May 2009
Today was our first run, and no one was looking forward to it as we were still living in our tents at the time... We approached the shed briskly everyone shivered in the morning cold, with most people dressed in a singlet and short running pants.
Dale started to explain the details of the 3.4 kilometre run and how we time ourselves and so on, and as soon as he finished talking we waited for the clock to tick over to 7:00 and we set off.
I started very gingerly, with concerns of a previous glute injury creeping up on me. I was still cold at the start of the run and had a little limp happening but was still sitting near the front of the pack. I immediately thought 'Next time I'll warm up first'. But I fought through the pain and kept running. I soon started to warm up and it came slightly easier, but the pain was still there. But I soon moved into second position and pulled away from any followers behind me.
I reached the steps still a massive way behind Corey, but I was in front of Favs and Callum behind me by a fair bit. But I was sweating and starting to seriously fatigue, and with my glute I wasn't feeling to great. But I kept running and holding my position. Occasionally I saw the outline of the white singlet of Corey running strongly out in front of me. I kept running and convinced myself I was close to finishing, when I wasn't really.
I eventually got back to the shed still limping and still in pain but happy because I had finished behind Corey who is a strong runner, also I could definitely run faster if my glute didn't hurt me.
Sunday 3rd May 2009
Today was to be seen as worse than yesterday as we were completing a 5.5 kilometre run rather than a 3.4 kilometre run. I arrived at the shed 15 minutes early and started some moving stretches as well as a few stationary stretches, and by the time we started I think that I was almost properly warmed up and ready to run.
I started off straight away from the front running next to Corey. My aim was to stay with him for most of the way and if I had the energy maybe get in front at the end.
By the time we hit the stairs I was still with Corey and he started to complain about his existing back injury but he kept running, but by the time we got to the jetty, Corey was forced to pull out because of his back injury. But I kept running strongly, but without Corey I couldn't quite push myself to get my best time. Despite this I kept running as fast as I could with only Callum and Favs near me.
I ended up finishing with a time of 22:45, I thought this was a good time, but I really had no clue at all. Overall, I thought that the 5.5 kilometre run was a lot easier than the 3.4 kilometre run.
Monday 4th May 2009
Today we participated in a game of modified soccer, which I was not happy because I don't like soccer at all, but since my class is not overly into football we don't play it, which sucks for people like me who all they want to do is play football. But it wasn't too bad... I guess.
We started off with three warm up laps as a group, as well as having a small stretching session. I was glad about this because it meant less time playing soccer.
After this we were allocated into two teams, and the modified rules were that everyone had to be over half way to score a goal, and for every person on the other team who was in your defensive half counts as another goal when you score. This meant that every person had to run up and down the field every possession, and although I didn't overly want to play I still tried and got into it, just pretty much kicking it as far as I could.
I was very happy as soon the game finished because I just wanted to go and have breakfast. If it was a better game I would have wanted to keep playing, but as it was soccer I was relieved.
Tuesday 5th May 2009
Today the fitness program consisted of another 3.4 kilometre run, up to the stairs and back, and 100 sit ups and 100 push ups. I was working hard, determined to break the 14 minute mark, which I did, with a time o 13:50. Just in front of Favs. Corey had a sore back and couldn't push me today, which I was disappointed about. But Favs pushed me as I was determined to beat him, which I successfully did. I was happy because all my injuries I put in the back of my mind and pushed through all the pain. The exercises after the run weren't too hard. I had a small stretching session and easily completed the sit ups and push ups.
Wednesday 6th May 2009
Today was a very different morning training session than normal, we participated in our first power training of the program. We began by running 1 kilometre along a sand track to Flaherty's beach where we the power training would take place. We started off with a short sprint to a line, touching it, turning and sprinting back, touching the line, turning and sprinting back, etc. The next thing we did was exactly the same, besides for the fact that we had to sprint a few metres longer. Then we did the same thing but to make it just that little bit harded we had to do 5 quick push ups on one of the lines and get up and sprint back, over and over again. I was very happy for this, as I could complete this easy, always coming first out of my group for all of these 3 activities.
Dale then marked out a zig-zagged line along the beach and we were to sprint it, touching every corner than we come across. As we started this I had to deamonstrate 5 times for Dale as he kept making me run, which was really hard, so I was buggered when I was running the next 5 that I had to run. As we did this a group of slower boys departed on their way back to Wambana. While we started to do some push up exercises. But they weren't too hard.
On the way back, we had to run indian file, which is where the person running at the back of the group has to sprint to the front and re-join the line... We did this the whole way back, and by the time we got back, most of us were buggered, but I wasn't too bad, but I still had a well earned shower.
Thursday 7th May 2009
As Dale was away and we needed him to run the 9.2 kilometre run, we had to swap it for tomorrows game, and, to my distress, we once again had to play soccer. I didn't really want to play, but I still tried when the ball came my way, kicking it as long and as far aw I could every time. For the second half I swapped into goal keeper and rapidly saved goals protecting my teams 1-0 lead. Then Callum pulled out the biggest fluke, having a shot and scoring off the pole to make it 1-1. But luckily straight after Daniel scored and we went on to win 2-1. We then did some stretches and that was the end of the session. I hate playing soccer and this wasn't a fun session for me...
Friday 8th May 2009
Today we were set to run the postponed 9.2 kilometre run. We split into two groups, the boys that thought they were capable of running the whole 9.2 and the boys who thought they couldn't run the whole way. The boys who couldn't run the whole way started along the beach and just had to keep running, while the boys who were completing the whole 9.2 set off with Dale and had to run the appropriate track on the road, which eventually linked up with the beach. When we reached the beach we came out as a group, while the rest of the boys had almost reached that point, so they all started turning around and we began our trip back.
This run wasn't timed and Corey was having some troubles and had to stop, so I stopped with him, and supported him through his pain. But soon after we engaged in running again, and ran all the way through to the finish, still finishing 3rd of 4th in the unofficial placings.
Saturday 9th May 2009
Today we set our at blistering pace, pulling away with a group of 4, Luke, Favs, Corey and myself. At half way Corey had to stuff after struggling in pain, but about 50 metres past half way, I made a dash away from the group, sprinting for about 200 metres away from Luke and Favs, and despite their efforts to catch me, and despite how tired I had become after that sprint I held them off, to get my best time of 13:20. I think the reason that I got this time was because I worked so hard and pushed myself when I pulled away from the group. Afterwards I was really happy cause I had beaten Corey's time and I had, had a solid win over Luke trying his best.
Afterwards we did some stretches and 100 of both push ups and sit ups. We also had to hold the bridge for 1 minute, and I did this 3 times with everyone that came later.
Sunday 10th May 2009
Today we had another 3.4 kilometre run, which we were all getting sick of, because with the 9.2 being changed a few days ago we have a schedule of 4 runs in a row, which is hard for everyone. It was hard the whole way but I still managed to get a time of 13:40, which is still a good time. But I was totally exhusted from the previous days run and thats the best I could have possibly done today. Afterwards I seriously needed to stretch as I started to have muscle soreness all over my body, especially through my legs. Then I went back to my Wardli knowing I had to be ready for tomorrows 5.5 kilometre run.
Monday 11th May 2009
Today we finally had another 5.5 kilometre run, which involved running to the end of the jetty and back. The slower people, or people with current injuries left at 6:45, but for the rest of us it was normal time at 7:00. I was in the lead pack with Corey and Favs, until I broke away just before the jetty, but they both managed to catch me up with about 2 kilometres to go. So we ran together again as the lead group, when Corey started to drop off the pace. Towards the end Favs really started to push me, but with about 200 metres left to go, I went for it sprinting home, managing to beat him by 12 seconds, gaining a time of 21:20, beating my old time by 1 minute and 25 seconds. I was pleased with my effort when Moff told me I was close to Sean Nunan's time, this was a real compliment for me.
Tuesday 12th May 2009
Today we had to be at the shed by 6:30 because we had to participate in the NAPLAN tests early in the morning. But thismorning we had power training instead of a run, but it was to be cut short because of the tests. We started the same as last power training, by running down the sand track to Flaherty's beach, then stretching and getting straight away into some short sprints, and some quick turns. We then did the same but did push ups on one side and turn on the other. After this everyone lined up together in two groups, the fast group, and the slow group... we then raced of short sprints seeing whether the long distance reflected on the short distance. Then the slow group were sent back, and we lined up in a group from slowest to quickest over short distance and then had to try and catch the person infront of us after they got a head start. I was at the back and had to try and catch Gavin while Luke was breathing down my neck. Unfortunately I didn't catch Gavin, but luke didn't catch me either so it wasn't all bad. We then ran back indian file, with the person at the back having to sprint to the front.
Wednesday 13th May 2009
Today I am leader, and in association with this I arranged with Dale to run at the back of the group and help out my room mate Logan Mahadeva. I ran with him, with the knowledge that he had never ran a whole 3.4 kilometre with out stopping, so this was my goal to keep him going. Tom Lyons ended up runing with us also, and I kept him going as well ensuring that he wouldn't walk for the entire run. I did this the whole way and they both didn't stop running. They both finished well with Logan beating his time by almost 2 minutes. He appreciated my help, and I was very proud of Logan for bettering his time. Afterwards we stretched and did our sit ups and push ups.
Thursday 14th May 2009
Today was our last day before the 11 km run, and we were set to play a game, but once again we had to wake up early for the NAPLAN testing and it was to dark to play a game. We then had a choice, to do push ups and sit ups or to go for a nice beach walk. I chose to do the sit ups and push ups but in the end didn't to to many. It was a really easy session before the 11 kilometre.
Friday 15th May 2009
Today was the big day for everyone, the 11 kilometre beach run. We got on the bus by 7:00 and we were running at Hardwicke Bay by 7:20. At the start Luke set a really fast pace at the front and kept running strongly, Favs and I tried really hard to catch him but he was running at a to great of a pace for us. But this kept us at a good pace trying not to get any further behind Luke. About 5 kilometres in, a few boys started to move up behind us, this made us lift our work rate and speed and we started to pull away again. At approximately 9 kilometres in Dale sprinted up to us and caught us, and he started to put us off our running by saying things like, 'a rest would go down well' and 'you look tired, why not stop, it will be good for you' but Favs and I just accelerated away and left him behind. The whole run had been extremely hard because we had a massive head wind that was pushing us back, but when we reached the sand track the wind went away, but the sand got soft, so it was a comprimise. But I found this track easier than the rest of it and we started to lift our pace. With about 100 metres left I sprinted away from Favs and ended up beating him by 7 seconds with a time of 56:00. This was a good time, but I knew if there was no head wind I could have done better. But I achieved one of my goals which was to beat Favs which I did, but I couldn't quite beat Luke.
Saturday and Sunday
Parent weekend - no fitness program.
Monday 18th May 2009
It was hard getting up thismorning after having the parent weekend. Today we had another 5.5 kilometre run, which was extremely hard work. I felt as if I was stiff recovering from the 11 kilometre run, and as soon as I started, I was groaning with the ache that came from every muscle in my body. But I was still running with Favs at the front, until I got off the jetty and I really needed to go to the toilet, so I ran off course and went to the toilet for a few minutes. I came out and tried to make up as much ground as I could. I ended up with a time of 26 minutes, four minutes behind Favs which is probably the time I would have got.
Tuesday 19th May 2009
Today we had another game, I was extremely happy to hear that we were playing footy as I ran back to my Wardli to get my footy. We were splity up into two teams, Wardli's 2 and 4 against Wardli's 3 and 5. It was a good game, with Tom Burfield for the opposite team and myself going head to head playing good games. But in the end Dale called out next goal wins, and we kicked it, but it was a pretty even match overall. I was just happy to play footy for the first time :)
Wednesday 20th May 2009
Today everyone was grouped at the shed, not including the people that left early, while Dale arrived and asked everyone how they were feeling. There were mixed responces with the majority leaning towards, 'tired', or 'sore', or 'not willing to run', or all three. So Dale proposed we have an easier run with everyone running together, I was stoked at this outcome, as I was really hurting. We all ran together without stopping for the whole 3.4 kilometres. Tom Lyons was struggling so Callum and I helped him out and pushed him to the finish. We all finished with a time of 21 minutes, I was so happy that we got a rest before tomorrows big run.
Thursday 21st May 2009
Today was a suprise run... The board displayed that we were running a 9.2 kilometre run, but Dale had previously told us that it was going to be changed for the better or the worse. This had us all a bit confused and didn't know what to expect. We got split up into two groups, the group that were going along the beach, the less capable runners, and the people that were running the 9.2 kilometre track, the more capable runners. I was in the second group and we set out along the course as a group. As we had nearly finished our bitumen segment of the running, Ned started having some real troubles with injuries and breathing, and mental willingness, so mainly Callum and I helped him through it until we were separated. When we reached the dirt road we took a detour, but not everyone went, he sent some people off down the track to keep running, while the rest followed Dale, we continued to go back and forward repeating the detour, and everytime more and more people were sent back. We eventually narrowwed the group down to the really good runners, myself still included, and we finally ran down the dirt track, but when we reached the beach Dale only sent a few runners to the left (the proper way to go) and the rest of us continued right. The pack that went right included Dale, Callum, Burf, Favs, and myself. After running a fair bit in the wrong direction we turned around and started to run in the right direction. This was when Dale told us all he was going to beat us and we had to make sure that he didn't. Burf sprited off leading us four, but I quickly chased him down taking the lead. I passes all the people that had been sent off and with everyone came a word of advice. But I was flying and passing everyone, my goal was not only to beat the other four people in the group but to beat the whole class back, so I pushed on, and ended up beating everyone back to the shed with Favs close behind. I was really happy with my effort and thought that I ran really well.
Overall, I loved the fitness program the camp gives and hope I can keep it up in the near future.
Snorkelling
Our new instructer arrived just in time to take us out snorkelling, as well as Bairdy tagging along as well. We had two sessions, the first to get us used to snorkelling, and the second when we are a bit more confident, and able to snorkel more effectively.
Monday 4th May 2009
This was our first snorkelling lesson, and it took place at Hardwicke Bay. The reason it was here, because in the morning we participated in some community service in the local community, as well as the hosting a beautiful reef.
We arrived at the beach, and had to walk along some jaggered rocking, on bare feet, just to reach the place where we were set to start out snorkel. We had a small talk from Luke, and began to prepare to snorkel. He tought us to spit on our face mask before wearing them to reduce the fog that occurs while snorkelling. Also, he tought us to role the sole of the fins up before putting them on, so it doesn't wreck the fins. We also learnt that we had to have partners so that if something happened there would always be someone there to help.
After we had learnt a few things, we set out onto the reef and started to have a look at the beautiful scenery of the reef. After we had looked around for a bit, we were taken away from the reef and tought how to duck dive properly when snorkelling.
We then had a little longer time to look around the reef, and we saw a massive blue crab that luke tried to catch, but instead just played around with it for a bit. But soon after everyone started to get cold, and then we headed into shore.
It was a fun day, in which we learned a lot of tips about snorkelling, and got some beautiful views of the reef as well.
Wednesday 6th May 2009
As not much people really enjoyed the first snorkel, we went to a new spot. This time we went to Magazine Bay at Pt. Turton. We didn't take as long to get organized this time because we already knew what to do from Monday's session.
We once again partnered up, with everyone pretty much choosing the same partners, and Turns and I once again being partners.
This time, instead of swimming over a reef, we were on the side of a cliff and instead of looking over a reef and coral, we were looking into the side of a cliff as well as around cliffs. The swim itself was much more enjoyable than the first time, because there was rocks and cliffs to dodge and swim through as well as a few ditches to go under, rather than just swimming along the top... But the views, in my opinion, weren't as good, as there wasn't a massive, beautiful reef to look at.
In our time there we saw some massive fish, that probably sized up to half a metre long. While we also saw a two metre skate that didn't move as we approached it, so it was good for everyone to get up close and look at it. But we had to make sure we floated along the surface, instead of letting our legs drop and sturring of the sand so we couldn't see it anymore, but luckily that didn't happen until everyone started to leave the sight. We also saw a massive star fish, that ugly!
Overall, it was a way better day than the first day, because we manged to stay at least a little warm, before we got out, rather than on the first day when we concentrated on being cold rather than looking properly at what is surrounding us. It was also alot more fun swimming around all the rocks and everything, rather than just simply floating around and looking, and although the sights weren't as good, they were still sufficiently good sights, and was much more enjoyable than the reef, where we only saw one crab. Turns and I had a great time together and would snorkel any time if it was warm enough.
Monday 4th May 2009
This was our first snorkelling lesson, and it took place at Hardwicke Bay. The reason it was here, because in the morning we participated in some community service in the local community, as well as the hosting a beautiful reef.
We arrived at the beach, and had to walk along some jaggered rocking, on bare feet, just to reach the place where we were set to start out snorkel. We had a small talk from Luke, and began to prepare to snorkel. He tought us to spit on our face mask before wearing them to reduce the fog that occurs while snorkelling. Also, he tought us to role the sole of the fins up before putting them on, so it doesn't wreck the fins. We also learnt that we had to have partners so that if something happened there would always be someone there to help.
After we had learnt a few things, we set out onto the reef and started to have a look at the beautiful scenery of the reef. After we had looked around for a bit, we were taken away from the reef and tought how to duck dive properly when snorkelling.
We then had a little longer time to look around the reef, and we saw a massive blue crab that luke tried to catch, but instead just played around with it for a bit. But soon after everyone started to get cold, and then we headed into shore.
It was a fun day, in which we learned a lot of tips about snorkelling, and got some beautiful views of the reef as well.
Wednesday 6th May 2009
As not much people really enjoyed the first snorkel, we went to a new spot. This time we went to Magazine Bay at Pt. Turton. We didn't take as long to get organized this time because we already knew what to do from Monday's session.
We once again partnered up, with everyone pretty much choosing the same partners, and Turns and I once again being partners.
This time, instead of swimming over a reef, we were on the side of a cliff and instead of looking over a reef and coral, we were looking into the side of a cliff as well as around cliffs. The swim itself was much more enjoyable than the first time, because there was rocks and cliffs to dodge and swim through as well as a few ditches to go under, rather than just swimming along the top... But the views, in my opinion, weren't as good, as there wasn't a massive, beautiful reef to look at.
In our time there we saw some massive fish, that probably sized up to half a metre long. While we also saw a two metre skate that didn't move as we approached it, so it was good for everyone to get up close and look at it. But we had to make sure we floated along the surface, instead of letting our legs drop and sturring of the sand so we couldn't see it anymore, but luckily that didn't happen until everyone started to leave the sight. We also saw a massive star fish, that ugly!
Overall, it was a way better day than the first day, because we manged to stay at least a little warm, before we got out, rather than on the first day when we concentrated on being cold rather than looking properly at what is surrounding us. It was also alot more fun swimming around all the rocks and everything, rather than just simply floating around and looking, and although the sights weren't as good, they were still sufficiently good sights, and was much more enjoyable than the reef, where we only saw one crab. Turns and I had a great time together and would snorkel any time if it was warm enough.
History Tour 1
Friday 8th May 2009
We sat in the bus early in the morning as Moff got set to take us for a history tour of the area.
We didn't get far before we had our first stop, which was about 5 metres outside the campus, trying to name a pine tree Moff pointed out. It turned out to be a Nor Folk Island Pine. The Nor Folk Island Pine was built near ports to be used as ships masts as it is a very strong wood. It is also used for eucalyptus oil and is fire and drought resistant.
This was not the only tree we learnt about on the tour, we also learnt about such trees as follows;
She Oak: This tree has very hard bark, which helps it to be fire and drought resistant, and is the only food source of the Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoo.
Aleppo Pine: Has a Europe look about it and was planted in place of native Australian trees as these were believed to be a bad omen. It was also planted to make the Australian landscape more green.
Mallee Gum: One of this trees major features, probably its main feature in fact is its trunk. It is located underground which means if a fire comes through it is protected because all its roots and everything is underground, so it will simply grow back.
We also learned about many minerals and where they were mined, as well as how many local towns were used for mining many years ago.
Limestone: Is Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) and is used in building many houses and local buildings around the countryside. It is also used in cement and used to purify iron. it was also shipped to Adelaide and used to build buildings such as the town hall and post office.
Stenhouse Bay: Used to be a mining sight that mined for Gypsum. The reason it stopped was because it was to dangerous to mine on a cliff face. Gypsum is used to make chalk and plasterboard.
Inneston: Was the earliest mining town and also mined gypsum.
Overall, it was an info rich history tour, on which I learnt a whole range of interesting facts.
We sat in the bus early in the morning as Moff got set to take us for a history tour of the area.
We didn't get far before we had our first stop, which was about 5 metres outside the campus, trying to name a pine tree Moff pointed out. It turned out to be a Nor Folk Island Pine. The Nor Folk Island Pine was built near ports to be used as ships masts as it is a very strong wood. It is also used for eucalyptus oil and is fire and drought resistant.
This was not the only tree we learnt about on the tour, we also learnt about such trees as follows;
She Oak: This tree has very hard bark, which helps it to be fire and drought resistant, and is the only food source of the Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoo.
Aleppo Pine: Has a Europe look about it and was planted in place of native Australian trees as these were believed to be a bad omen. It was also planted to make the Australian landscape more green.
Mallee Gum: One of this trees major features, probably its main feature in fact is its trunk. It is located underground which means if a fire comes through it is protected because all its roots and everything is underground, so it will simply grow back.
We also learned about many minerals and where they were mined, as well as how many local towns were used for mining many years ago.
Limestone: Is Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) and is used in building many houses and local buildings around the countryside. It is also used in cement and used to purify iron. it was also shipped to Adelaide and used to build buildings such as the town hall and post office.
Stenhouse Bay: Used to be a mining sight that mined for Gypsum. The reason it stopped was because it was to dangerous to mine on a cliff face. Gypsum is used to make chalk and plasterboard.
Inneston: Was the earliest mining town and also mined gypsum.
Overall, it was an info rich history tour, on which I learnt a whole range of interesting facts.
Community Service - Hardwick Bay
Tuesday 5th May 2009
We arrived at the small community town of Hardwicke Bay ready to do our bit to help the environment. We all assembled in the small community centre there and got a talk from one of the local environmentalists about feral plants and how we have to eradicate them. We saw examples of the feral plants and pictures of how they are taking over our beautiful country side. We soon after met one of the young boys who help out, Blake, and were told what our task was going to be.
We walked down to a few gardens, receiving a small speech about why they are there, and how their small community group has improved the area. They had done quite a remarkable job and I was happy to help them out, in making the community a better place.
We came across a block of land which was just dirt at the time, and it had a few workers working on it. this was where we were destined to do our community service and help out with making a new garden for the community. We started by doing some hard labour, shoveling dirt from massive mounds and escorting them by wheelbarrow to the selected destination. As soon as we had moved all of these mounds into the garden, we started to plant some trees and plants. As soon as we had been shown how to properly plant we were on our way to planting a new garden and after a short period of time we had definately made a difference to what was just a block of dirt.
I felt good, knowing I had helped the local community even if it was only in a minor way.
We arrived at the small community town of Hardwicke Bay ready to do our bit to help the environment. We all assembled in the small community centre there and got a talk from one of the local environmentalists about feral plants and how we have to eradicate them. We saw examples of the feral plants and pictures of how they are taking over our beautiful country side. We soon after met one of the young boys who help out, Blake, and were told what our task was going to be.
We walked down to a few gardens, receiving a small speech about why they are there, and how their small community group has improved the area. They had done quite a remarkable job and I was happy to help them out, in making the community a better place.
We came across a block of land which was just dirt at the time, and it had a few workers working on it. this was where we were destined to do our community service and help out with making a new garden for the community. We started by doing some hard labour, shoveling dirt from massive mounds and escorting them by wheelbarrow to the selected destination. As soon as we had moved all of these mounds into the garden, we started to plant some trees and plants. As soon as we had been shown how to properly plant we were on our way to planting a new garden and after a short period of time we had definately made a difference to what was just a block of dirt.
I felt good, knowing I had helped the local community even if it was only in a minor way.
Scientific Research - Reef Watch
Wednesday 6th May 2009
Reef watch is a scientific program that looks at animals and species inbetween the high tide line and the low tide line on beaches. Mrs. Hobbs took us out on Wambana beach to study this area in closer detail. We used four methods to record data about the area, which we recorded on four sheets of paper we were provided with. The four sections were as follows:
1. LINE INTERCEPT TRANSECT (LIT) - To record the type of substrate (A surface on which an organism grows or is attached) e.g rock, grass, mussells, worms
2. LINE INTERCEPT TRANSECT (LIT) - To record the depth of the macro algae (algae that is easily visible compared to microalgae) and sediment (solid fragments of inorganic or organic material that come from the weathering of rock and are carried and deposited by wind and water)
3. LIT & QUADRAT - To record the abundance of mobile marine animals
4. LIT & QUADRAT - To record the percentage cover of substrate
The data we recorded is significantly important because it is published in the veiw of scientists, and if they can see that there is something wrong in the reef watch environment, whether it be an increase of decrease of a certain life form, etc. they can act on it, using it as vital information that they can use effectively. We did this by transforming our data from our sheets into an excel spread sheet then printed out and given to Mrs. Hobbs. This way she can use the data effectively.
The information we collected could have an impact on the scientific outcome of the reef watch area, and I am glad that we had correctly collected information that can be properly used for keeping the environment in the best possible shape. I am happy that our class can make a difference in keeping the environment healthy.
I also got an insight of what it would be like, to work along costal regions looking at reef watch, and I also learnt that even a little contribution can make a big difference in the end. I learnt what it would be like to be a marine biologist and even though we didn't find much in our recordings every little detail counts.
Reef watch is a scientific program that looks at animals and species inbetween the high tide line and the low tide line on beaches. Mrs. Hobbs took us out on Wambana beach to study this area in closer detail. We used four methods to record data about the area, which we recorded on four sheets of paper we were provided with. The four sections were as follows:
1. LINE INTERCEPT TRANSECT (LIT) - To record the type of substrate (A surface on which an organism grows or is attached) e.g rock, grass, mussells, worms
2. LINE INTERCEPT TRANSECT (LIT) - To record the depth of the macro algae (algae that is easily visible compared to microalgae) and sediment (solid fragments of inorganic or organic material that come from the weathering of rock and are carried and deposited by wind and water)
3. LIT & QUADRAT - To record the abundance of mobile marine animals
4. LIT & QUADRAT - To record the percentage cover of substrate
The data we recorded is significantly important because it is published in the veiw of scientists, and if they can see that there is something wrong in the reef watch environment, whether it be an increase of decrease of a certain life form, etc. they can act on it, using it as vital information that they can use effectively. We did this by transforming our data from our sheets into an excel spread sheet then printed out and given to Mrs. Hobbs. This way she can use the data effectively.
The information we collected could have an impact on the scientific outcome of the reef watch area, and I am glad that we had correctly collected information that can be properly used for keeping the environment in the best possible shape. I am happy that our class can make a difference in keeping the environment healthy.
I also got an insight of what it would be like, to work along costal regions looking at reef watch, and I also learnt that even a little contribution can make a big difference in the end. I learnt what it would be like to be a marine biologist and even though we didn't find much in our recordings every little detail counts.
Community Service - Leisure Options
The Yorke Peninsula Leisure Options Society are a group of intellectually disabled people who come together a few times a few to have fun and do activities with each other. We caught up with these people and helped them out to have fun and enjoy themselves. The aim for us was to assist disadvantaged people in our community with a great social environment in which to have fun, and to learn new skills, Whether it be us or them learning skills from the opposite...
Being a volunteer among these people, to me, meant that I had to help out in any way possible and enjoy myself doing it. I certainly did, as I learnt about them and how they go about things. Definitely being a volunteer among the group was a great experience for me, and I would certainly do it again.
I learnt that people with disabilities are not at all different to people without them. They can interact, play games, have fun and everything else the same, but they might just be lacking in one particular area, but this doesn't demote them at all, as I learnt how they are just the same as normal people. They do everyday things the same as us, are up to date with footy, cricket, etc. and some even hold down jobs. So overall, they are great people who can have a good time just the same as us.
I enjoyed interacting with these people, and learning all about them and their lives, and people close to them. You can have a real long chat with one of these people and not get bored, its good fun.
I least enjoyed knowing what they would go through in their lives, with people prejudging them and not giving them a chance. They would never approach these lovely people and learn actually how nice they are. It is really quite sad, but these people don't let it get in their way, they just go out there and have a fun time.
Over the leisure options program I learnt about these people and how they run their lives, as well as playing cards with them, playing cricket with them, and just having a genuine fun time in their company.
Being a volunteer among these people, to me, meant that I had to help out in any way possible and enjoy myself doing it. I certainly did, as I learnt about them and how they go about things. Definitely being a volunteer among the group was a great experience for me, and I would certainly do it again.
I learnt that people with disabilities are not at all different to people without them. They can interact, play games, have fun and everything else the same, but they might just be lacking in one particular area, but this doesn't demote them at all, as I learnt how they are just the same as normal people. They do everyday things the same as us, are up to date with footy, cricket, etc. and some even hold down jobs. So overall, they are great people who can have a good time just the same as us.
I enjoyed interacting with these people, and learning all about them and their lives, and people close to them. You can have a real long chat with one of these people and not get bored, its good fun.
I least enjoyed knowing what they would go through in their lives, with people prejudging them and not giving them a chance. They would never approach these lovely people and learn actually how nice they are. It is really quite sad, but these people don't let it get in their way, they just go out there and have a fun time.
Over the leisure options program I learnt about these people and how they run their lives, as well as playing cards with them, playing cricket with them, and just having a genuine fun time in their company.
Scientific Research - Hooded Plover
Research of the Hooded Plover
Jack Kelly
Due: Sunday 10th May 2009
Synopsis:
The Hooded Plover is a very small coastal bird that lives along the coast, nesting in between the fore dune and the high tide line on surf beaches. They prefer surf beaches because the rough water beings food to the shore, which is where the Hooded Plover feeds. Although the Hooded Plover prefers surf beaches, it doesn’t necessarily mean that have to live there. They can also live on calmer beaches, that is of course, only if the beach provides enough food for the Hooded Plover to feed on. Sadly the Hooded Plover has very minimal numbers left, and has been classified as ‘vulnerable’, which is the third worse classification after ‘endangered’ and ‘extinct’. It also means that the Hooded Plover is at a real risk of becoming endangered or even extinct. This is because they lay their eggs in sand on popular surf beaches, which means humans will mistakenly step on them by accident. As well as other common threats to the Hooded Plover also. Solutions such as allocating a section of beach where the Hooded Plovers eggs are located, and fence it off, not allowing people to crush the eggs of this innocent bird. Also, just for everyone in general to have a proper idea of this minuscule bird, and to understand its situation.
Aim:
The aim of our research was to collect valuable information about the Hooded Plover, which could properly diagnose what the main threats of the bird is, and the ideal conditions for the hooded plover to live in. This is important because the Hooded Plover as a ‘vulnerable’ species and we need to diagnose the major threats and eradicate them. Also, this is important because the conditions that the Hooded Plover lives in are essential, and if it is established exactly how it lives, and then we can set up exact solutions to protect this delicate species.
Method:
In order to find some Hooded Plovers in our research, we went to West Bay, a beach that contained moderate surf, but wasn’t that popular, meaning that the Hooded Plover could bread and not have the human element amongst their predators. We had to look very closely along the beach to spot the Plovers, but it was relatively easy as they were all feeding near the water line and weren’t that hard to spot. When we saw a Hooded Plover we recorded the coordinates of its position on the GPS. We saw a group of six Hooded Plovers all in the same spot so we marked the coordinates as S35°14.266, E136°49.958. As we approached the area where they were grouped, they showed leading behaviour and attempted to lead us away from where they were feeding, this was probably because they had eggs or a nest nearby and didn’t want us to get close to it. They would run, then stop and let us get closer, then run again, but eventually as they got further and further away from where they started they flew around us and went back to their original spot. We used our journals to record the results that we obtained, and to avoid mixing any of it up, we got more than one person to record the data, making sure that it would be correct and not altered.
Results:
The numbers of the Hooded Plovers are rapidly decreasing, and if we don’t act now, they will soon go from vulnerable to endangered, which basically means they are up against it just to survive. If this happens, and the Hooded Plover eventually dies out, it will act as a chain reaction in the environment, with the predators that preyed on the Hooded Plover turning their attention to other species, which effects those species that may also be vulnerable, the Malleefau for example. Also other species that rely on the Hooded Plover will take a downfall and possibly become vulnerable itself. But, luckily there is also a great chance for them surviving, if some solutions are set in place, the Hooded Plover will surely survive. There has been proved over the last few year when the Tamar Wallaby was introduced into Innes National Park, and to do this they hunted all the foxes so that the Wallaby could survive, and since then such species as the Hooded Plover has rapidly increased their numbers. This shows that the when solutions are put in place, numbers of a species can increase, and that is what needs to happen with the Hooded Plover.
Discussion:
The information that we have collected will go into a massive database which scientists can tap into and use for research. The information we have posted will help people looking at this database to look at the threats towards the Hooded Plovers, how it acts, etc.. The major causes of this situation is the fact that humans are not aware that the beach they visit so regularly, it shared by a bird that is lacking in numbers, therefore people smash the eggs of this creature by accident and don’t even take into consideration that they could be killing a species all together. Effects to save these birds must start now, the situation is very serious and the chances are small, but the solutions will help them survive massively.
Conclusion:
As said in the aim, we are trying to diagnose the major predators of the Hooded Plover, as well as finding the ideal environment for the Hooded Plover to live in. I believe keeping the number of foxes down is a great advantage in keeping the Hooded Plovers numbers up, as well as keeping other species numbers up also. Another solution is putting up temporary markers on very popular beaches to protect the new eggs and new born babies of the Hooded Plover. I think that a group of scientists should focus on the Hooded Plover, and put these words into action. By doing this they can follow up their own work and making sure that the number of Hooded Plovers increase to a safe level on which they can survive on their own.
The Hooded Plover is an important species in eco-systems and they should be very carefully repopulated.
Jack Kelly
Due: Sunday 10th May 2009
Synopsis:
The Hooded Plover is a very small coastal bird that lives along the coast, nesting in between the fore dune and the high tide line on surf beaches. They prefer surf beaches because the rough water beings food to the shore, which is where the Hooded Plover feeds. Although the Hooded Plover prefers surf beaches, it doesn’t necessarily mean that have to live there. They can also live on calmer beaches, that is of course, only if the beach provides enough food for the Hooded Plover to feed on. Sadly the Hooded Plover has very minimal numbers left, and has been classified as ‘vulnerable’, which is the third worse classification after ‘endangered’ and ‘extinct’. It also means that the Hooded Plover is at a real risk of becoming endangered or even extinct. This is because they lay their eggs in sand on popular surf beaches, which means humans will mistakenly step on them by accident. As well as other common threats to the Hooded Plover also. Solutions such as allocating a section of beach where the Hooded Plovers eggs are located, and fence it off, not allowing people to crush the eggs of this innocent bird. Also, just for everyone in general to have a proper idea of this minuscule bird, and to understand its situation.
Aim:
The aim of our research was to collect valuable information about the Hooded Plover, which could properly diagnose what the main threats of the bird is, and the ideal conditions for the hooded plover to live in. This is important because the Hooded Plover as a ‘vulnerable’ species and we need to diagnose the major threats and eradicate them. Also, this is important because the conditions that the Hooded Plover lives in are essential, and if it is established exactly how it lives, and then we can set up exact solutions to protect this delicate species.
Method:
In order to find some Hooded Plovers in our research, we went to West Bay, a beach that contained moderate surf, but wasn’t that popular, meaning that the Hooded Plover could bread and not have the human element amongst their predators. We had to look very closely along the beach to spot the Plovers, but it was relatively easy as they were all feeding near the water line and weren’t that hard to spot. When we saw a Hooded Plover we recorded the coordinates of its position on the GPS. We saw a group of six Hooded Plovers all in the same spot so we marked the coordinates as S35°14.266, E136°49.958. As we approached the area where they were grouped, they showed leading behaviour and attempted to lead us away from where they were feeding, this was probably because they had eggs or a nest nearby and didn’t want us to get close to it. They would run, then stop and let us get closer, then run again, but eventually as they got further and further away from where they started they flew around us and went back to their original spot. We used our journals to record the results that we obtained, and to avoid mixing any of it up, we got more than one person to record the data, making sure that it would be correct and not altered.
Results:
The numbers of the Hooded Plovers are rapidly decreasing, and if we don’t act now, they will soon go from vulnerable to endangered, which basically means they are up against it just to survive. If this happens, and the Hooded Plover eventually dies out, it will act as a chain reaction in the environment, with the predators that preyed on the Hooded Plover turning their attention to other species, which effects those species that may also be vulnerable, the Malleefau for example. Also other species that rely on the Hooded Plover will take a downfall and possibly become vulnerable itself. But, luckily there is also a great chance for them surviving, if some solutions are set in place, the Hooded Plover will surely survive. There has been proved over the last few year when the Tamar Wallaby was introduced into Innes National Park, and to do this they hunted all the foxes so that the Wallaby could survive, and since then such species as the Hooded Plover has rapidly increased their numbers. This shows that the when solutions are put in place, numbers of a species can increase, and that is what needs to happen with the Hooded Plover.
Discussion:
The information that we have collected will go into a massive database which scientists can tap into and use for research. The information we have posted will help people looking at this database to look at the threats towards the Hooded Plovers, how it acts, etc.. The major causes of this situation is the fact that humans are not aware that the beach they visit so regularly, it shared by a bird that is lacking in numbers, therefore people smash the eggs of this creature by accident and don’t even take into consideration that they could be killing a species all together. Effects to save these birds must start now, the situation is very serious and the chances are small, but the solutions will help them survive massively.
Conclusion:
As said in the aim, we are trying to diagnose the major predators of the Hooded Plover, as well as finding the ideal environment for the Hooded Plover to live in. I believe keeping the number of foxes down is a great advantage in keeping the Hooded Plovers numbers up, as well as keeping other species numbers up also. Another solution is putting up temporary markers on very popular beaches to protect the new eggs and new born babies of the Hooded Plover. I think that a group of scientists should focus on the Hooded Plover, and put these words into action. By doing this they can follow up their own work and making sure that the number of Hooded Plovers increase to a safe level on which they can survive on their own.
The Hooded Plover is an important species in eco-systems and they should be very carefully repopulated.
Community Service - Alepo Pine Removal
For another one of our community service acts we were to cut down a feral tree by the name Alepo Pine. This tree is used as a good wind stopper, but since been used as a good tree, had dramatically spread across the Yorke Peninsula, over populating, and not allowing native plants to grow. This has become a major problem, so it was out job to stop them in their tracks.
We arrived at a strip of road near Minlaton, and Max, our instructer gave us pamphletts and talked to us about Alepo Pines and how to cut them down. After this we were given our cutting implements and we were set off walking down the road, cutting down these trees. We were not to miss one, so we thoroughly went through chopping down trees. They were only small trees though, and didn't take much difficulty.
Later on in the day we came across much larger Alepo Pines and we were to take them out with small saws. We did this, but every tree took longer than expected. As well as cutting down trees, we also took protectors of native trees that had been previously planted and were out growing their gaurds.
I was happy to be a part of taking down these feral trees and hope that our effort helps wiping out this tree. I hope they are all gone by the near future so that they cannot keep destroying our native landscape.
We arrived at a strip of road near Minlaton, and Max, our instructer gave us pamphletts and talked to us about Alepo Pines and how to cut them down. After this we were given our cutting implements and we were set off walking down the road, cutting down these trees. We were not to miss one, so we thoroughly went through chopping down trees. They were only small trees though, and didn't take much difficulty.
Later on in the day we came across much larger Alepo Pines and we were to take them out with small saws. We did this, but every tree took longer than expected. As well as cutting down trees, we also took protectors of native trees that had been previously planted and were out growing their gaurds.
I was happy to be a part of taking down these feral trees and hope that our effort helps wiping out this tree. I hope they are all gone by the near future so that they cannot keep destroying our native landscape.
History Tour 2
Monday 11th of May 2009
Once again we piled into the bus ready for one of Moff's great history tours.
We started our tour in the Warooka Museum:
Their was a Mortan Bay Fig Tree in the block next door, so Moff felt inclined to tell us that it was from Queensland, and showed us how it was destroying the house sharing the block with it.
Before the building was a museum it was a police station, but back in those days it was owned by the army and was a trooper station.
We were told to take 3 points out of the museum that we remembered, mine were as follows;
Once again we piled into the bus ready for one of Moff's great history tours.
We started our tour in the Warooka Museum:
Their was a Mortan Bay Fig Tree in the block next door, so Moff felt inclined to tell us that it was from Queensland, and showed us how it was destroying the house sharing the block with it.
Before the building was a museum it was a police station, but back in those days it was owned by the army and was a trooper station.
We were told to take 3 points out of the museum that we remembered, mine were as follows;
- The sword was the dominant weapon back in its day
- Women had no importance - they shared that same name as their husbands - weren't trusted with money
- A whole family uses the same bath it goes in order - father, mother, then the kids in order of ages
We then went to a country cemetary, here we were ment to record three things, they were:
- Oldest grave
1878
- Percentage Youth
60%
- Epitah
There is a reaper, whose name is death.
And with his sickle keen,
He reaps the bearded grain at a breath,
And the flowers that grow between.
We then went to Sandlewood Park, which is an old farm from early settlers that has been preserved by the owners. It is in Australia's top 7 historical places. But the owners don't let anyone go onto the property, luckily we are allowed to go onto the property to look at everything.
Before we reached the property Moff told us about how the last 3 time he had visited the same sight there had been ferals living there. So everyone was a bit unsure about entering the premesis. As soon as we arrived we saw some people living there so we had to keep out of their way.
The farm had stone walls separating most of the paddocks. Luckily these stone walls had been preserved, otherwise they would end up like most of the walls around the area, knocked down and decayed. We also saw the wide range of very old, valuable machinery that in laying around in the various sheds. We also learnt about the various building and what they were used for, the outhouse and meat room for examples. We also noticed that there were horses and pigs living on the farm.
Moff told us after that because they had a young horse there, there was probably a young girl, because young girls like pony's, and if they wanted to take one of us to live with their daughter they probably would have, but luckily they didn't.
We walked into one of the rooms of the preserved farm, and the people living there had hung a boxing bag, and while we were in vision of the ferals, Campbell punched the bag, and Moff went up at him. We all knew Campbell would do something stupid.
We also learnt in this tour that Yorketown and Warooka were both unplanned towns, and the reason they are there is because there was a person selling goods from a cart on high land which eventually turned into a shop, and then the pub was build opposite them. This happened on both the towns.
History Tour 2, in my mind, was much more informational, and a lot more fun than History Tour 2, and overall I had a fun day and learnt a whole heap about the area.
Sea Kayaking
Sea Kayaking is a highly regarded sport in the on water society and I was happy to have a shot at it. We had two sessions which were both equally as enjoyable.
The first session was all about skills and learning how to manoeuvre the kayak properly. We met our instructor Phil who is a very experienced paddler and has kayaked the Bass Straight 3 times. I thought this was amazing and immediately regarded him very highly. We set off going around the fishermen, and then did a little coarse around the jetty pylons. We played follow the leader and you weren't allowed to be more than a boat length behind the person in front of you. After this we went for a straighter paddle around the coast, and learnt how to effectively turn and use our hips and knees for balance. We then returned to the beach and packed up. I thought that the session was great fun, and a good way to hone in on our skills.
We then went kayaking again the next day. I thought this session was much better than the first, because we had already learnt some skills and we already could kayak quite capably. The conditions were a lot rougher that the first day, which were pristene clear conditions, but I personally liked the rougher conditions as it provided waves for us to go over on our kayaks. The only bad attribute to this was that we didn't get to as much fishing as I would of hoped for, but on the other hand the conditions were great fun. We were set to kayak further than the first day, and we did this despite the conditions. On our way around to one of the local beaches we went against the waves getting the front of our kayaks both air borne and under water. This was great fun, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We then did a beach landing where you paddle, head on into the beach, and beach yourself. This was great fun for everyone. We then had to re launch ourselves and paddle back. This was good fun because we got to ride the waves back, and when you caught a wave, the thrill was exillerating. We also got to stop for 10 minutes of fishing when we were out of the wind, but unfortunately no one caught anything.
Overall, I had a great time Kayaking, and it was one of my most enjoyed activities over the coarse of extended stay.
The first session was all about skills and learning how to manoeuvre the kayak properly. We met our instructor Phil who is a very experienced paddler and has kayaked the Bass Straight 3 times. I thought this was amazing and immediately regarded him very highly. We set off going around the fishermen, and then did a little coarse around the jetty pylons. We played follow the leader and you weren't allowed to be more than a boat length behind the person in front of you. After this we went for a straighter paddle around the coast, and learnt how to effectively turn and use our hips and knees for balance. We then returned to the beach and packed up. I thought that the session was great fun, and a good way to hone in on our skills.
We then went kayaking again the next day. I thought this session was much better than the first, because we had already learnt some skills and we already could kayak quite capably. The conditions were a lot rougher that the first day, which were pristene clear conditions, but I personally liked the rougher conditions as it provided waves for us to go over on our kayaks. The only bad attribute to this was that we didn't get to as much fishing as I would of hoped for, but on the other hand the conditions were great fun. We were set to kayak further than the first day, and we did this despite the conditions. On our way around to one of the local beaches we went against the waves getting the front of our kayaks both air borne and under water. This was great fun, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We then did a beach landing where you paddle, head on into the beach, and beach yourself. This was great fun for everyone. We then had to re launch ourselves and paddle back. This was good fun because we got to ride the waves back, and when you caught a wave, the thrill was exillerating. We also got to stop for 10 minutes of fishing when we were out of the wind, but unfortunately no one caught anything.
Overall, I had a great time Kayaking, and it was one of my most enjoyed activities over the coarse of extended stay.
Parent Weekend
On Friday the 15th of May, I was picked up a bit later than anticipated, but nonetheless I was still picked up within the allocated time. My father, John, and my mother, Sharee, picked me up at about 3:30 pm from Wambana, and we started on our way to Marion Bay Motel, where we were booked to stay. On the car trip over I was confronted with a flourish of questions from my parents, and informed about where we were staying, and how nice it looked. Despite the on rush of questions I was very happy to see my parents for the first time in three weeks, and simply enjoyed being in their company.
After being away from them for 3 weeks, I think that I felt a little more respect for them, knowing what they have to do day in, day out, every week of the year. Things like cleaning the house every day, washing the dishes after every meal, doing the washing when necessary, etc. But overall, I felt relitively the same about my parents, still loving the equally as much.
I love my parents for their continual love they show towards me. But they are both different in different ways. I love Mum for always being there for me, and helping me whenever I need it. I love my Dad for always being able to joke around and make me laugh. As well as always playing footy and things with me. But overall, I love them both equally, and I think that even though I have been away for 3 weeks it doesn't change anything... If anything it made the weekend even more special after not seeing them for a long time.
On Saturday the 16th, we left our motel and headed down the road towards Innes National Park. In the park, I was destined to be the tour guide showing my parents everything that I had seen, and memorising some of Moff's stories. I took them all the way around the whole national park, all the way to Browns Beach, which is the furthest beach you can drive to in the park. I showed them my favourite place in the park, Dolphin Bay. I also took them to various lighthouses we visited.
On Sunday the 17th, we were forced to leave our motel early as we had to have left our room by early morning. So we set off on our journey towards Maitland, where we were having lunch with my Dad's best mate Ken Watson (Waddo), and his family. Before we arrived there Dad took me on a tour of his old property, and his old town Maitland, and the various places there. Whether it be the footy oval or where he went to school, etc..
When we finally arrived there, we had a tour of the house and ate a roast for lunch. While this was happening Dad and Waddo were reminissing over their stories, as they hadn't seen each other for 15 years and desperately needed to catch up. While this was happening I met the family, and we all had a good lunch. After lunch, the kids headed back on the bus to boarding school and Dad, Waddo, and I look outside at the farm. Soon after we had to head back to Wambana, as I was due to be back there. But I think the parents could have talked all week if they had the time. Overall, it was a fun day, in which I was happy to finally meet my Dad's best mate and his family.
I had a great weekend with my parents and cant wait to see them again on Thursday.
After the parent weekend I am looking forward to surfing...
After being away from them for 3 weeks, I think that I felt a little more respect for them, knowing what they have to do day in, day out, every week of the year. Things like cleaning the house every day, washing the dishes after every meal, doing the washing when necessary, etc. But overall, I felt relitively the same about my parents, still loving the equally as much.
I love my parents for their continual love they show towards me. But they are both different in different ways. I love Mum for always being there for me, and helping me whenever I need it. I love my Dad for always being able to joke around and make me laugh. As well as always playing footy and things with me. But overall, I love them both equally, and I think that even though I have been away for 3 weeks it doesn't change anything... If anything it made the weekend even more special after not seeing them for a long time.
On Saturday the 16th, we left our motel and headed down the road towards Innes National Park. In the park, I was destined to be the tour guide showing my parents everything that I had seen, and memorising some of Moff's stories. I took them all the way around the whole national park, all the way to Browns Beach, which is the furthest beach you can drive to in the park. I showed them my favourite place in the park, Dolphin Bay. I also took them to various lighthouses we visited.
On Sunday the 17th, we were forced to leave our motel early as we had to have left our room by early morning. So we set off on our journey towards Maitland, where we were having lunch with my Dad's best mate Ken Watson (Waddo), and his family. Before we arrived there Dad took me on a tour of his old property, and his old town Maitland, and the various places there. Whether it be the footy oval or where he went to school, etc..
When we finally arrived there, we had a tour of the house and ate a roast for lunch. While this was happening Dad and Waddo were reminissing over their stories, as they hadn't seen each other for 15 years and desperately needed to catch up. While this was happening I met the family, and we all had a good lunch. After lunch, the kids headed back on the bus to boarding school and Dad, Waddo, and I look outside at the farm. Soon after we had to head back to Wambana, as I was due to be back there. But I think the parents could have talked all week if they had the time. Overall, it was a fun day, in which I was happy to finally meet my Dad's best mate and his family.
I had a great weekend with my parents and cant wait to see them again on Thursday.
After the parent weekend I am looking forward to surfing...
Surfing
Moday 18th May 2009 - Berry Bay South
Today we met the three surf leaders, Longy, Mark and Jammo, before we departed from Wambana, and they gave a us a brief chat about surfing, some safety, and the essentials. We then lined up in order of heights, smallest to tallest, and they then distributed the wetsuits out. I received an extra-small sized wetsuit, which had short sleeves. I wasn't happy about the short sleeves, but I had a ripcurl e-bomb wetsuit, which is a high quality wetsuit, and I trusted it to keep me warm. We then departed on the designated buses with Wardli's 2 and 5 together, and 3 and 4 also.
When we arrived at the beach we were to line up and receive both a leg rope and a surf board. After this we walked down the steep and rocky hill, closely examining where we step trying not to slip with our board in our hand. After slowly lowering ourselves down the hill, we carefully placed our boards in the sand, sinking the fins in slowly making sure we don't bend or break them. Soon after we gathered in a group and began our warm up down the beach. The warm up consisted of a jog down the beach, with some short sprints, and some moderate stretching. We soon jogged back to where our boards lay.
We then split up into 3 groups, each with our own instructor in charge. We then practiced some padling and jumping up onto our boards while we were still on the sand. Soon after we straped our leg ropes on and ran out into the tides. We all tried our best to stand up on any wave we could catch. I managed this very well standing up on almost every wave I cought. We came back in to the shore after about 30 minutes and Mark gave our group some more tips about being able to stand up. We then ventured back out into the surf and kept up the good work until the end of the session.
Tuesday 19th May 2009 - Berry Bay North
We all woke up ready for a whole day of surfing instead of a half day. I was so excited about the day ahead after how fun the day before was. We soon arrived at Berry Bay North and we had a small talk about rips, because there are heaps of rips and this particular beach and we were to watch out for them. To take care of this problem we were to, after we had completed a similar warm up to yesterday, make massive sand markers in the sand, by making piles of sand so that we could see them from the water. When we were surfing we had to stay in between these two markers.
We soon straped our leg ropes on and jogged out into the water. The surf was even better than the day before, which brang a smile to everyone's face. We had to stay at no deeper than chest deep. Once again I had such a great time catching wave after wave, and having fun surfing next to Jimmy Shannon.
As the day came to an end everyone was completely fatigued. Surfing uses about every muscle in your body and after a day of it, it really takes its toll on your body. But I had so much fun over the coarse of the day, that the fatigue was only a small deflection of the day for me.
Wednesday 20th May 2009 - Berry Bay North
We once again travelled to Berry Bay North for our last day of surfing, and I determined to make it my best day yet. We once again went through our warm ups which was good because we were all cold and stiff after the cold bus trip.
We soon got out into the water and started catching some awesome waves. About half and hour into the session Longy called James Brownbridge and I over to him and asked us if we wanted to go out the back with him. So we went with him paddling out to the back break, but by the time we got out there we were in a rip, so Longy decided to teach us about rips and how to use them to your advantage. Soon after this we paddled over to a sand bar and caught a wave into shore and ran back to join the rest of the group.
Later on in the day a group of some of the better surfers in the class went out the back again with Longy. The group included Gavin, James Turner, Jimmy Shannon, and myself. It was a slight struggle to paddle out there against the waves but once we got there it was definately worth it! We caught some awesome waves and got some sweet rides all the way back into the shore.
Overall, it was the best day for me in the surfing program and in the whole extended stay program. Surfing was definately the best activity that I engaged in over the extended stay period and I am keen to keep surfing later on in life.
Today we met the three surf leaders, Longy, Mark and Jammo, before we departed from Wambana, and they gave a us a brief chat about surfing, some safety, and the essentials. We then lined up in order of heights, smallest to tallest, and they then distributed the wetsuits out. I received an extra-small sized wetsuit, which had short sleeves. I wasn't happy about the short sleeves, but I had a ripcurl e-bomb wetsuit, which is a high quality wetsuit, and I trusted it to keep me warm. We then departed on the designated buses with Wardli's 2 and 5 together, and 3 and 4 also.
When we arrived at the beach we were to line up and receive both a leg rope and a surf board. After this we walked down the steep and rocky hill, closely examining where we step trying not to slip with our board in our hand. After slowly lowering ourselves down the hill, we carefully placed our boards in the sand, sinking the fins in slowly making sure we don't bend or break them. Soon after we gathered in a group and began our warm up down the beach. The warm up consisted of a jog down the beach, with some short sprints, and some moderate stretching. We soon jogged back to where our boards lay.
We then split up into 3 groups, each with our own instructor in charge. We then practiced some padling and jumping up onto our boards while we were still on the sand. Soon after we straped our leg ropes on and ran out into the tides. We all tried our best to stand up on any wave we could catch. I managed this very well standing up on almost every wave I cought. We came back in to the shore after about 30 minutes and Mark gave our group some more tips about being able to stand up. We then ventured back out into the surf and kept up the good work until the end of the session.
Tuesday 19th May 2009 - Berry Bay North
We all woke up ready for a whole day of surfing instead of a half day. I was so excited about the day ahead after how fun the day before was. We soon arrived at Berry Bay North and we had a small talk about rips, because there are heaps of rips and this particular beach and we were to watch out for them. To take care of this problem we were to, after we had completed a similar warm up to yesterday, make massive sand markers in the sand, by making piles of sand so that we could see them from the water. When we were surfing we had to stay in between these two markers.
We soon straped our leg ropes on and jogged out into the water. The surf was even better than the day before, which brang a smile to everyone's face. We had to stay at no deeper than chest deep. Once again I had such a great time catching wave after wave, and having fun surfing next to Jimmy Shannon.
As the day came to an end everyone was completely fatigued. Surfing uses about every muscle in your body and after a day of it, it really takes its toll on your body. But I had so much fun over the coarse of the day, that the fatigue was only a small deflection of the day for me.
Wednesday 20th May 2009 - Berry Bay North
We once again travelled to Berry Bay North for our last day of surfing, and I determined to make it my best day yet. We once again went through our warm ups which was good because we were all cold and stiff after the cold bus trip.
We soon got out into the water and started catching some awesome waves. About half and hour into the session Longy called James Brownbridge and I over to him and asked us if we wanted to go out the back with him. So we went with him paddling out to the back break, but by the time we got out there we were in a rip, so Longy decided to teach us about rips and how to use them to your advantage. Soon after this we paddled over to a sand bar and caught a wave into shore and ran back to join the rest of the group.
Later on in the day a group of some of the better surfers in the class went out the back again with Longy. The group included Gavin, James Turner, Jimmy Shannon, and myself. It was a slight struggle to paddle out there against the waves but once we got there it was definately worth it! We caught some awesome waves and got some sweet rides all the way back into the shore.
Overall, it was the best day for me in the surfing program and in the whole extended stay program. Surfing was definately the best activity that I engaged in over the extended stay period and I am keen to keep surfing later on in life.
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