18 Jun 2025
Congratulations to our first 2025 cohort of 140 Year 9 students, who completed their combined Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Adventurous Journey.
Over the three-day expedition, students were met with an unprecedented amount of rainfall, which required constant adaptation. Many original walking routes and activity plans were adjusted to prioritise safety and ensure students experienced the right level of challenge.
Both groups established base camps at their respective Scout camps, where they showed tremendous adaptability. Despite the wet conditions, students remained engaged and positive, embracing the opportunity to learn navigation skills, problem-solved to keep their gear dry, learn new card games and solve many mind games and riddles.
Day Walk into Camp
The Year 9 cohort was split into two groups for the duration of the expedition. Groups 1– 4 began their journey at Heathcote Scout Camp, where they set up base and camped for two nights. Meanwhile, Groups 5 – 8 commenced their adventure from Waterfall Train Station, making their way to Camp Coutts Scout Camp, where they also spent two nights.
Heathcote Scout Camp
Groups 1 to 4 kicked off their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh journey by meeting their Black Diamond Adventures leaders—Tyson, Jordan, Lewis, and Jack—at Heathcote Scout Camp. The morning was spent preparing and packing for their first day walk, ensuring everyone was ready for the adventure ahead.
Taking advantage of the best weather of the week, two groups set off on a challenging return hike down to Kangaroo Creek, while the other two groups made their way to the scenic Karloo Pools for a relaxed lunch stop. Both treks involved steep descents, and students took their time, moving slowly and steadily to ensure safety and supported each other throughout.
Once they reached their destinations, all groups took a well-earned break to enjoy the beautiful pools and river surrounds, soaking in the peaceful bushland before regrouping to face the tough climb back out of the valley. It was a true test of determination and teamwork, with students encouraging one another every step of the way.
Back at Heathcote Scout Camp, the teams settled into the camp halls for dinner and games with their leaders. With spirits high and a sense of accomplishment, the groups wrapped up a terrific first day before heading to their tents for a well-deserved rest.
As evening arrived, students—now well-versed in using Trangias—got busy cooking. The students using the final evening as a chance to solve the remaining riddles and challenges along side their Black Diamond leaders.
Though the weather changed their plans, the day proved to be a unique and exciting part of the expedition. As the night settled in, the groups headed to their tents for their final evening, bringing a memorable day to a close.
On the final morning of their expedition, all groups braved the wet weather to begin packing up camp. Despite the rain, students worked efficiently and cooperatively to pack down their tents before moving into the camp halls to enjoy a warm breakfast together.
Groups 1– 4 made the most of their final hours by heading out on a short walk through the town of Heathcote. They then returned to camp to repack their bags preparing for the trip home.
The students from Plumpton High School should be incredibly proud of their ability to adapt and persevere throughout the duration of their Adventurous Journey. Their dedication and positive attitudes throughout the week were remarkable to see and attributes they will use for years to come.
I would like to express my sincere thanks and gratitude personally and on behalf of Plumpton High School to Tahlia McKenzie, Liam Canning, Sarah Hackenberg, Alyssa Gordon, Ben Clark, Cameron Honeysett, Brayden Griffiths and Emily Joan for their tremendous commitment to our students by leading the first 2025 Duke of Edinburgh International Award Framework Adventurous Journey, especially given the unfavourable climatic conditions last week. Thank you to Black Diamond Adventures for their ongoing support of our Duke of Ed program along with the NSW and Australian Offices of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award.
Tim Lloyd, Principal
