Tears, cheers and last minute instructions were the order of the day as the young brigade boarded the coach for what was a first camp experience for many boys…and parents! The bus was a buzz of excitement and anticipation as the tall black gates of the crusaders camp were upon us. Greeted by three enthusiastic leaders, it was evident that this was to be a camp to remember.

The bags were stored, the morning tea eaten and it was straight into activity no. 1, which was different for all groups. The 43 strong crowd were separated into 3 groups and their activities included rock climbing, canoeing, mission impossible, a lake adventure walk, archery, sailing, fishing and log rolling. The latter was intriguing and the boys discovered very quickly that balance was going to be crucial.

After swimming out to a designated area in the lake, a long plastic and foam ‘I’-shaped water structure was in front of them. In the middle was a foam cylinder, which spun when stood on, and soon became the area of battle! One by one, the boys stepped up to test their balance, strength and intellect to conquer all before them in a gladiator-style battle royale. And the kings of the log roll were Benji MacDonald, Henry Taylor and Jett Leong who were ruthless in their domination of all who challenged them.

Canoeing was next, and three in the boat with two paddles meant for a lot of directing and negotiating on the warm pristine waters. Games that included splashing other boats to remove dirt from the front and relay races tested the boys’ teamwork and strength, with Zac Kingston the standout.

The adventure walk allowed the boys to get back to nature, and this led to the end pier where the reels were uncoiled and the damper hooked. With some precision and patience, Jett Leong and Ethan Hardwick managed to pull in two little beauties, give them a kiss and throw them back.

Archery slowed things down and allowed the boys with great precision and accuracy to take over. Cameron Liu led the way, missing the bulls eye by a…bulls eye! Things really heated up when mission impossible started. A test of knowledge, skill, teamwork and leadership as the boys attempted to negotiate a make-believe nuclear reactor escape. Shea Tonge used his superior flexibility and quiet determination to aid his team in all three activities.

When it comes to courage! When it comes to conquering fear, there is nothing better than clambering up a mountainous wall! Many tried, many triumphed, but none better than young Charlie Carr. After flying up half the course, Carr froze and refused to move. Egged on by the leaders and his classmates, Charlie was able to overcome his fears and make it to the top. Tom Kennedy and Anton Lising were also very impressive on the climb.

That just left sailing! ‘We are sailing’ echoed around the camp as the lifejackets were thrust and the wet shoes stepped in. Three brilliant little catamarans entered the water and a sail around the pristine Lake Macquarie waters ensued. Calm waters at first opened the way to the ‘roaring forties’ as the boats sped along at match speed. Such was the speed that the boys were going that one could not hold on and decided to go for a dip! Much laughter and cheers ensued as Henry Taylor was dragged back on the boat, with a new story to tell.

In between activities the boys were constantly engaged, with the leaders enthralling and entertaining them with night games, bible activities and many a game of soccer and basketball along the way. Food was plentiful, nutritious and delicious and gave the boys the energy they needed to make it through three days jam-packed full of activities. An amazing camp, an amazing location and some incredible staff made this a camp to remember. Can’t wait until next year!!

Shayne Pollard, Leonie Russell, Mark Caulfield and Katrina James

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