Recently our Year 10 Duke of Ed students completed their Silver practice Adventurous Journey in the lower Blue Mountains. We began at the historic Knapsack Viaduct, built in 1867 for the original rail line and later the main route over the Mountains until the 1990s. A steep climb brought us to Elizabeth’s Lookout, where students were rewarded with sweeping views back toward the city.
From there, we navigated through Knapsack Reserve into Glenbrook and Blue Mountains National Park. On the way to Euroka, a few students took the chance for a refreshing swim downstream of the causeway. Once at camp, the group showed clear growth from Bronze to Silver as they set up tents efficiently and cooked their own meals with confidence.
The following day was shortened due to forecast severe storms, but we still managed to enjoy the views from Tunnel View and Mt Portal Lookouts. On the final day, most groups headed to Penrith Whitewater Stadium for rafting. Alongside the excitement and plenty of action, it was encouraging to see students pushing themselves, supporting one another and stepping outside their comfort zones.
Overall, it was an excellent lead‑up to their qualifying Adventurous Journey in November and a strong demonstration of their developing resilience, teamwork and outdoor skills.
Mr Dave Catto
Duke of Edinburgh Leader