The Year 7 Orientation Camp was a resounding success at the new campsite of Lake Dewar Lodge, west of Bacchus Marsh. The boys learnt to develop independence and resilience by living together in a dormitory environment whilst participating in group outdoor activities for three days.

Each boy lived the Marist values of Family Spirit, Simplicity, Love of Work, Presence, and In the Way of Mary in their interaction with staff and individual students. Relationships were formed and developed during the camp activities such as canoeing, kayaking, mountain bike riding and the challenging gorge walk. The boys’ minds were challenged as they participated in numerous team challenges as part of the survival skills, raft building and amazing race activities.

The amazing race was really fun and challenging. My group worked together as a team to achieve all seven checkpoints. My favourite activity was the archery challenge because it was something I had never done before, so I was able to learn new skills.
Alex

I participated in the kayaking and learnt new paddling skills which enabled me to beat the staff and my peers in a race. It was fun getting in the water and swimming.
Sam V

Mountain bike riding was good to evade through the trees on the single track, go fast downhill and peddle uphill using the different gears. It was rewarding when we reached the top of the hill as we had magnificent views of the campsite and surrounding environment.
Ben L