From Monday 29 to Tuesday 30 June, 28 of our Year 11 Gold Duke of Edinburgh students completed their Practice Adventurous Journey in Royal National Park. Students were either canoeing or hiking, depending on their chosen qualifying expedition. The purpose of the practice trip is to strengthen expedition skills, test fitness, build teamwork and enjoy the experience together.
Our canoeing group was joined by students and staff from Oran Park Anglican College. They paddled from Audley along the Hacking River, out into Port Hacking and around to the Bonnie Vale campsite. Canoeing brings its own mix of joys and challenges: students appreciated not having to carry all their gear on their backs (and even packed a few luxuries), while also learning the art of paddling in sync to keep their canoe heading in roughly the right direction. This group will take on the stunning Kangaroo Valley for their qualifying journey in December.
The hiking group began at Garie Beach and followed the Coast Track, taking in waterfalls, dramatic clifftop views, and wildlife along the way. Whales were spotted offshore, rainbow lorikeets squawked away, and a flock of black and yellow cockatoos circled overhead. This hike extends the Bronze qualifying journey that students undertook in Year 9, adding 10km of challenge across the two days.
Both groups came together at Bonnie Vale to relax and enjoy the campsite. The next morning, canoeists set off early to paddle back to Audley, while the hikers trekked through mud, hills, and winding bush tracks to finish at Loftus.
It was a rewarding trip that showcased resilience, experiential learning, and plenty of good humour. Our students have taken an important step in preparing for their qualifying journeys ahead.
Mr Dave Catto
Senior School Teacher & Duke of Edinburgh Leader