YSS Newsletter 2025 Term 2 Week 4

On behalf of Ruth, Marie, Paul, Andrew and myself, I would like to congratulate the Class 4,5 and 6 students on a successful camp at Mokidup, last fortnight. 

Mokidup, at Ellensbrook, has been a camping spot for the Wadandi people for tens of thousands of years until in 1857, Ellen and Alfred Bussell chose it as the location of their new home, naming it ‘Ellensbrook’. Classes 4,5 and 6 felt very privileged to share this prime location for our camp, which served as a basis for immersing in local history, geography, botany and geology – all relating to the main lessons spanning the three upper years of Primary School. It was a wonderful opportunity for the older students to shine the way for the Class 4’s first school camping experience.  

As our first bushwalks for the year, Classes 5 and 6 walked almost 30km over the three days. This alone provided a challenge that many overcame with apparent ease and determination, curiosity and comradery winning over. The weather was favourable with warm days and mild-cool nights. With a sprinkle of rain, we were well prepared for the Djeran weather, which swayed between the warmth of Bunuru gone and the cool of Makuru to come. 

Cradled by the ridge and creek line, the Class 5 and 6 teamed up to organise tents and arrange warmth, shelter, food and hydration. We explored for climbing, gilgies and tools, while learning the value of teamwork, which extended beyond those present at camp to the parents and staff who supplied transport, food and resources to make this experience possible.  My sincere gratitude to all involved. 

On our walks we deepened our understanding of the geographical location, by orientating ourselves to the Leeuwin-Naturaliste ridge and western coastline, observing the geological formations responsible for such a rich biodiversity of plants and animals. The landscape provided a rich tapestry of observable and imaginative life that the classes continue to work with back in the classroom. 

This year we were fortunate to welcome back Andrew Hazar from Rewild Margaret River to lead the children in an awakening of fire. The children engaged in traditional fire-making practices including using a ferro rod and learning how to use the bow-drill, experiencing the thrill of fire-by friction. With games to cultivate connection and awareness, fishing and finally an Indian feast, Day Two topped up the souls ready for a full night’s sleep. 

My personal favourite was Day Three and the stunning Cape Mentelle area. On our walk between Ellensbrook to Prevelley, on a gem of a day, we witnessed dolphins playing in sparkling water, delicate bunny orchids and heaving surf. The limestone coves, crannies and crevices were a treasure to behold. Despite a frosty morning of frozen fingers and a frenzied packup, the students were valiant in their efforts and soon thawed out, marching forth with vigour and determination. Their efforts were well rewarded by the chance to soak up this amazing part of the world. A refreshingly cool footbath and icy pole topped it all off at Wattadjalup, where our camp came to an end. We left this sacred place, at the mouth of the Margaret River where the sea serpent and freshwater serpent prepare their battle for when the river breaks through. 

Until next year, 

Lisa