In 2022, we had the honour of being selected to attend Rise Up Camp. We spent a jam-packed week in the late December sun at Forest Edge Recreation Camp, along with likeminded young club members from across the state. The camp’s motto was “expand your paradigm”, and we did just that, facing challenges both new and familiar while forming bonds with strangers who quickly became friends.
Days started early, with yoga, team skills, and a brief workout to prepare us for the day ahead. We spent hot days abseiling, air rifle shooting, kayaking, raft building, and go cart racing; all while learning important leadership and teamwork skills that we will hold forever. Though the days were long, we were never bored, spending every free moment playing basketball or ping-pong, before getting right back into the action after a delicious homemade meal.
In the evenings, we brushed up on our first aid skills and engaged in bonding activities, getting to know fellow club members, especially other country kids, many of whom we are still in contact with. It was amazing to meet and connect with other club members over our shared love for Surf Club. With many ups and downs, including countless covid cases, atrocious haircuts, and dorm-switching shenanigans, it was one of the most memorable times of our year.
We couldn’t recommend seizing the opportunity to attend RiseUp enough, and we enormously thank everyone who made this amazing experience possible.
-Mia Benson, Hamish Bowles, Mika Marshall, Harriet Martin (Albany, Esperance & Denmark SLSCs)