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Outdoor Education
2002 saw the introduction of Upper School Outdoor Education in Year 11. The course was welcomed by several students who have an interest in the environment and man's impact and use of the outdoors.
Students were involved in both practical and theoretical studies such as roping, (including abseiling and safety systems,) meteorology, navigation, orienteering, first aid, minimal impact camping and sailing.
The culmination of the course was a 6 day sailing expedition around the Dampier Archipelago testing a wide range of skills, most notably self-preservation when the temperature reached 44 degrees. The expedition was a huge success with all boys completing approximately 180 kilometres during the sail. There were numerous highlights on the trip including watching turtles laying eggs on the beach at night, a close encounter with a humpback whale and her calf, snorkelling over coral reefs and exploring uninhabited islands to find 20 000 year old aboriginal rock paintings.
Boys camped on the beach and had to prepare their own meals.
It was a fantastic experience for both students and staff and will be included in future programs. Along with the introduction of Outdoor Education in Year 12 in 2003 there will be some exciting opportunities for future groups.
Elsewhere in Outdoor Education the Year 10's successfully completed an "Adventure" camp in Margaret River participating in abseiling, rock climbing, high ropes and snorkelling.
Year 9's completed canoeing level 0 and went to Wellington Dam near Collie for there culminating camp.
The Year 8's had an introduction to camping at Dwellingup. They walked and rode several trails through the forest.
Thanks to the staff who shared their expertise and participated in the camps, especially Mr Messer and Mr Dwyer.
