Alamanda College Central Australia Cultural Camp
A Journey of Inquiry and Community Engagement
In the spirit of the International Baccalaureate's commitment to fostering curiosity, cultural understanding, and community engagement, we are thrilled to share the enriching experiences of our Year 8 and 9 students during the 2023 Camp to Central Australia. This transformative journey, guided by our dedicated educators Mr. Hick and Ms. Newhouse, along with the insightful Leroy as our tour guide, unfolded as an exploration of cultural immersion, environmental appreciation, and community connection.
The camp, held under the vast, star-studded skies, provided an authentic opportunity for our 11 students to connect with the rich landscapes and diverse cultures of Central Australia. As our young learners camped in swags and sleeping bags, they not only embraced the serenity of the outback but also engaged in meaningful interactions with the land and its custodians.
The exploration began at Ormiston Gorge, where unseasonable rain added an unexpected yet awe-inspiring dimension to the experience. Battling the elements, our students displayed resilience as they set up shelter, providing an unexpected backdrop of lightning and thunder. The subsequent days offered a chance for the group to explore the stunning Finke River Walk and partake in the Ormiston Gorge Pound Walk, creating lasting memories amid the natural wonders of the region.
The journey culminated in Yulara, where our students had the opportunity to witness the artistic prowess of local women at the Cultural Centre, engage in a half-day exploration of Kata Tjuta, embark on a day trip to Uluru, and witness the beauty of waterfalls cascading down the iconic rock after unexpected rainfall. We had the privilege of having an elder Anangu artist talk to the students about the significance of Uluru and the 6 sacred sights around the rock.
As we reflect on this extraordinary Central Australia Cultural Camp, we are immensely proud of our students for embracing the ethos of inquiry and cultural appreciation. The experiences gained during this journey align seamlessly with the principles of the International Baccalaureate, fostering open-mindedness, intercultural understanding, and respect.
