With the excitement of finally being able to head on camp, 96 excited Year 4 students and 8 enthusiastic staff, headed for the beach for three days at Tallebudgera Leisure Centre. For some it was the first time away from home, others were seasoned professionals, but all were keen, energetic, and ready for a challenge!


And challenges were delivered! Tallebudgera Leisure Centre sits on the edge of Tallebudgera Creek, bordered by the beautiful Burleigh headland and Palm Beach. It was a stunning, natural setting for canoeing, boogie boarding, archery, catapult building, beach games and a hair-raising giant swing.


From the teamwork needed for the beach games to the bravery required for giant swing, every student faced the tasks with an open mind and a willingness to take a risk. The use of mindfulness techniques and a growth mindset during the catapult building activity was rewarded with smiles, cheers and many group hugs, as the expectation of hitting the bullseye was met.


Many of Year 4’s favourite activity was the boogie boarding challenge. The thought of the chilly water left our minds quickly after we started shredding on party waves. Some of us tried to ride our board as far as possible into the shoreline, whereas others tried the difficult 360 manoeuvre. Another fan favourite was the giant swing. Each of us harnessed up and were pulled by rope from our group members to the height of our choice. From the top of the swing, we had a picturesque view of the beach and headland – some of us even spotted whales! After pulling the blue chord, we had a short (but sharp) freefall before being caught by the swing.


Camp is an excellent way for students to move out of their comfort zones and explore new personal challenges. Before we left for camp, the Year 4 teachers shared messages of ‘pursue your personal best’, ‘interact with as many new friends as possible’, and ‘focus on keeping your ‘Mind Master’ in control when being challenged’. Our day groups, cabin bunk mates and afternoon and night-time activities, encouraged us to mix with others we usually don’t get the opportunity to work with, sparking the growth of new bonds and friendships.


The staff at Tallebudgera were warm and friendly. We learnt so many new skills through the knowledge and expertise they shared during the activities, and we loved the compassionate way they interacted with us. The camp food was delicious, most students especially enjoyed the hot breakfast as they were especially tasty.


Both Trinity and Tallebudgera staff alike, were impressed by the impeccable behaviour of all our students. Mrs Traecey said we were all wonderful while we were away.


We departed after lunch on Wednesday, echoing dampened moods as we left behind a beautiful camp experience. Taking with us warm memories and a readiness for more – look out Year 5 camp!

Miss Michelle Aldridge | Miss Paris Allen | Miss Rachel Fawcett | Mr Timothy Ludlow | Year 4 Teachers