Page 2 - HCC Vol 25 Issue 9 - 27th September 2024

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The Year 9s made the trek to Camp Illawonga at Swan Reach on Monday of Week 9, where they stayed for two nights. They cooked on trangias and participated in a solo experience as part of the camp. The students’ first afternoon was spent enjoying the glorious weather, kayaking along the Murray River, and setting up camp.
Day 2 was spent caving 250m deep into the Illawonga cave. While in the cave, the students participated in a 30 second complete darkness challenge, designed for them to experience what is is like with no sound or light. They were also encouraged and coached through different level small space challenges. Students were then given a lesson on bush craft, before preparing for their overnight solo experience (where they spent approximately 15 hours on their own - with regular supervision checks by teachers). The students were required to make a tarp shelter to sleep under in their swag. They were encouraged to journal this experience, as well as reflect on life up to this point. This is the biggest challenge facing students as part of the Rite Journey, as it takes them out of their comfort zone to help them learn more about themselves.
In the morning, students celebrated and debriefed on the solo experience with a pancake breakfast. Even though this experience was challenging, the students reflected on how they overcame thier feelings of anxiety and fear, and most agreed they would do this challenge again.
Year 9
Rite Journey Camp