What a weekend!
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On Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 August, 40 students went for their first overnight camping trip to Moreton Island, which is located one hour off the coast of Brisbane. The weekend had plans of many activities including swimming, walking, exploring the island, sand boarding and snorkelling. On Saturday, all the students were excited beyond words about the adventure and on arrival at the campsite were anxious to explore. After setting up their beds in tents for the night, we all headed off in the 4-wheel drives to the island lookout. The 4-wheel drive along sand tracks, up hills and through water alone was exciting for many who had not experienced this before.
At the lookout point we saw whales playing in the ocean off the coast, swimming around each other, breeching out of the water, whale spouts everywhere! The water was so clear we could see turtles swimming close to the coast and dolphin pods further out. What a sight! After another short drive along the beach we found a sheltered beach for lunch and as you can see from the photos, many swam and played games on the beach.
After lunch, we were off to the sand boarding WOW, WHAT FUN!! Sand and smiles everywhere!
As the sun was setting we headed back to the camp site and just one kilometre from our destination, I spotted 4 dolphins swimming just off the beach. Naturally all the 4-wheel drives stopped and everyone rushed to the waters edge to see them! In a flash many of us were in the water and the dolphins played around us, coming in closer, just as inquisitive about us as were about them! Many of the students wanted to touch them but the dolphins teased us by swimming very close then off they would go! The dolphins played with each other, turning in the water and just giving us a show! It was nearly dark before we left the water, cold and excited by this amazing experience.
After a shower, dinner was enjoyed around a camp fire where we played games, sang songs and just talked - a big day for everyone!
On Sunday we woke to the sound of rain! Yes, the day turned cool, wet and windy but off we went to dig for 'pipis' on the other side of the island. No luck, so back to the camp for lunch and rest! The weather was bad so everyone just rested, talked, played more games and 'hung out' (some even studied) - a lovely time together.
After the ferry trip back to Brisbane, the students were all happy to be home as they were exhausted. Overall the weekend was fantastic! One student told me he has never been to such a beautiful place, all just one hour from our CBD!
Warm regards
Michele and Yaoli
