10O - A week at Mt Aspiring

By Alastair Campbell | Posted: Tuesday March 5, 2024

Last week saw a small but very keen group of 10O boys travel to the OBHS Lodge for a week of fun filled activities.

The week began with the traditional walk-in from the Aspinall’s homestead and then the ferrying of the supplies to the lodge. Multiple journeys were required with a particular challenge being the gas bottles. Soon everyone was settled into their dorms and ready to begin the week. Dinner that night was enough spaghetti bolognese to fill even the most hollow of teenage boys.

Monday’s focus was on water safety and paddling. Mr Thomas ably demonstrated how to safely float down a river while avoiding hazards. Soon the boys were in the water giving this a go. The water was literally breathtaking! Next came the paddling and learning to turn, S turns and descending rapid water. As would be expected a few were soon in the water, but plenty of smiles were evident.

The next day was a rare treat - a hangi. The boys dug the hole, prepared the fire, buried the food and consumed it. The comments were very positive about the whole experience and the quality of the food cooked. From a teacher’s perspective it was clear a number of boys are strangers to how to use a spade!

Finally, it was time for the overnight tramp and camp. A staple of any OBHS lodge experience. Having been issued with a tent, stove and food the boys walked to the wonderful Glacier Burn campsite. Here there was the opportunity to swim, fish and to cook with varied results.

Too soon the camp was finished. A big thank you to the Year 13 assistants who happily supported the boys, Mr Manson for his never ending positive attitude, Mr Thomas for his knowledge of the outdoors, and Mr McCrone for keeping us well fed. Mr Roe must also be acknowledged, without all his efforts no camp would happen.

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