The start of an exciting journey on the REEF program

The start of an exciting journey on the REEF program

Everyone was buzzing in anticipation and excitement of meeting our first-year REEF participants for their first camp of the year. We welcomed 37 Grade 6 students from Whittington and Newcomb Primary Schools to start their adventurous journey with Cottage over the next 2 years on the REEF program.

The first camp is all about establishing new friendships and getting the group to work together to overcome challenges and complete tasks they are given. The Reefies really enjoyed the “getting to know you” games and learning new things about each other.

For a lot of the REEF participants, it was not their first time at Cottage. With great relationships already established, both primary schools have been a part of the Take a Break program over the years. These students played a great role in supporting other students who were feeling the first-camp nerves. There are always challenges with such a large group, but our Camp Leaders are well prepared to deal with whatever comes their way.

The Reefies enjoyed exploring the local area and, in particular, going for their first swim at Cottage Beach! They are all excited to eventually go surfing and snorkelling on the REEF program – we have a group of water lovers. For one of the Reefies, it was their first time ever in the ocean!

It was a great 3 days of camp that all the Reefies enjoyed and they can’t wait to come back for the next camp. The Camp Leaders were impressed with how well the group came together and are really looking forward to how the Reefies progress throughout the program. There is plenty of scope for the group and we are super excited for the next camp in a few months!