Souths Cares recently orchestrated a transformative experience at Lake Macquarie, where a group of 14 young participants delved into a Boys Leadership and Cultural Camp. Nestled in the serene surroundings of Awabakal Country, the camp aimed to instill lessons on culture, teamwork, and leadership among the attendees.
Upon their arrival at the picturesque Lake Macquarie Ingenia Holiday Park, the boys engaged in discussions centered around the camp’s theme of ‘Keeping Our Culture Alive’ and the individual expectations set for their time there. The journey kicked off with a teamwork challenge as the boys collaborated to set up their campsite, fostering communication and camaraderie while assembling their swags.
A refreshing swim and a hearty lunch preceded an excursion to Charlestown for an afternoon of ten-pin bowling alongside their Souths Cares Mentors. Upon returning to camp, the boys tried their hand at fishing on Lake Macquarie before coming together to prepare a communal dinner.
The following day commenced with an early breakfast against the backdrop of the stunning Lake Macquarie sunrise. The boys were joined by Uncle Rodney Lake, who led cultural workshops, imparting traditional knowledge and customs to the eager participants. Under Uncle Rodney’s guidance, the boys delved into the cultural significance of the area, explored traditional hunting tools, and learned about corroboree protocols.
Rhys Wesser, from the Liverpool Opportunity Hub, stressed the invaluable impact of Leadership and Cultural Camps in nurturing young leaders within Indigenous communities. The boys spent the afternoon fishing, displaying remarkable aptitude and eagerness to learn new skills.
Evenings were dedicated to etiquette and connection-building activities, including a dinner outing to an authentic Italian restaurant in Warners Bay. Notably, Casey Butler, a standout participant from the Liverpool Opportunity Hub, was recognized as the ‘Camp MVP’ for exemplifying leadership and teamwork qualities throughout the camp.
The boys immersed themselves in workshops focusing on leadership, culture, and gratitude, culminating in a final team effort to dismantle the campsite, showcasing effective communication and teamwork skills. As the group returned to Sydney, reflections on their memorable experiences at Lake Macquarie filled the journey home, cementing the lasting impact of the camp on all involved.
Leave a Reply