A school camp in central Victoria draws students from a school on the Murray River year after year, where they discover adventure, challenge, and personal growth, creating lasting memories beyond the classroom.
Each year, the Year 5 students at The Lake Primary School in Mildura embark on a five-hour journey across regional Victoria to Camp Kookaburra. It’s a long way to go, but for acting principal Mr Shaun McInerney, it’s a trip worth taking.
“Our school has a strong commitment to outdoor education. Camp Kookaburra really aligns with our values around relationship building, teamwork, and giving students a chance to grow outside the classroom,” Mr McInerney says.
Located between Shepparton and the Victorian highlands, Camp Kookaburra is part of the CY Camps network. The Lake Primary School first learned about Camp Kookaburra in 2022 through the Victorian Government’s Positive Start initiative, which encouraged schools to re-engage students in camps and excursions after the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Camp Kookaburra was among the recommended options – and the experience was so positive for the school, it’s since become a fixture in its annual camp calendar.
“From that first camp, we were really impressed. It’s only gotten better each year. The facilities, the activities, the people – it all works,” Mr McInerney says.
Run by hosts Carly and Josh Honey, the camp has earned a reputation for its welcoming, family-style environment.
“They’re such genuine people, and incredibly easy to work with,” Mr McInerney says. “Every time we return, they’ve improved something – new activities, upgraded buildings. You can tell they’re really invested in the place.”
Camp Kookaburra offers a range of high-adrenaline and skill-building activities: a giant swing, climbing wall, flying fox, archery, canoeing, and the aptly named ‘Kookaburra Heights’ and ‘Kookaburra Balance’. The camp also provides access to bikes and walking trails, all set against a backdrop of bushland and open paddocks.
“The kids come back saying, ‘I didn’t think I could do that’. Whether it’s the high ropes course or just being away from home, they get pushed out of their comfort zones, and that’s where the growth happens,” Mr McInerney says.
Feedback from families echoes the same sentiment. “Parents tell us how much more confident their child is after camp,” he says. “We even hear from students that it’s refreshing to be away from devices and out in nature. That’s a rare thing these days.”
Despite the distance, the school continues to make it work logistically. This year, about 45 Year 5 students attended the camp, accompanied by seven staff and a small number of parent volunteers. The school recently purchased a 40-seater bus to reduce travel costs and increase accessibility for future excursions.
“The distance is a factor, but when the experience is this good, it justifies the effort,” Mr McInerney says.
The onsite accommodation is another highlight. Students stay in modern dorm-style rooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom – comforts not often found at school camps. The camp also features a newly renovated games room, central gathering areas, and hearty meals served in a communal dining space.
“As staff, we get looked after too,” Mr McInerney says. “They even serve us a separate meal, something a bit more adult. It’s those little touches that make a difference.”
Camp Kookaburra has now become so integral to The Lake Primary School’s programs that bookings are made two years in advance. “It’s a standout part of the school experience,” Mr McInerney says. “There are other camps closer to us, but we haven’t felt the need to look elsewhere.”
Visit www.cycamps.org.au to explore everything Camp Kookaburra and the other CY Campsites have in store.
Book now for Term 4 and enjoy an exclusive discount.
