Wellbeing Camp – Cape Arnhem
Yirrkala and Nhulunbuy Stars teamed up to venture out to Wanuwuy (Cape Arnhem) for a one-night camping adventure. The trip was offered to students who have showed commitment to increasing their attendance and growing within the classroom and in their engagement with their peers.
Our time was largely spent hunting (a few cheeky beach naps were snuck in!), as an incredible array of native foods was on offer- the girls spent hours collecting maypal (oysters) and luring in fish with hand reels.
Program Officer Rosie led an expedition into the mangroves at low tide to gather dhanpala (mud mussels), which were smoked on hot coals on the beach and shared with the Clontarf boys camping further up the beach. The boys continued the exchange of food, spearing and delivering fish and fresh crays to us to enjoy for breakfast.
After a night curled up in our swags under a full moon, we journeyed to the flood plains for more dhanpala and a game of cricket.
The camp, with its focus on participation in cultural activities and healthy lifestyles, was fantastic for our wellbeing. Nhulunbuy and Yirrkala Stars look forward to many more shared activities together.