Reflection and Planning Camp

Every year, the WYPIN Committee goes on a camp. The purpose of the camp is to reflect, evaluate and plan for next year’s program. It is also an opportunity for the young people to come and have fun together as well as learn more about each other’s culture. The camp was held in the second week of December 2008. We helped the WYPIN Coordinator, Dayane Stanovic, to organise activities, timetables and catering for our three-day retreat.

All the young people attending the 2008 camp were Committee members. Most of us were older members but a couple of us were newer members who signed up at our 2008 AGM to be part of the Committee.

We went to Cape Otway and stayed at Bimbi Park. The place was full of animals such as koalas, horses, chickens, kangaroos and birds. My favourite animal was the koala because it was the first time I had ever seen one. The place was surrounded by bushes which was perfect for us to do bush walking.

Another great experience was that we all had to take 3 minute showers and had to pay for it. This experience taught us to value water and understand the seriousness of water restriction in Victoria. Learning to clean and wash myself in three minutes was the most memorable experience.

I always enjoy going on WYPIN camp. It was a great opportunity to learn about each other individually and culturally and also to get to know the new members. There were plenty of activities at the camp that kept all of us active and healthy. Even though I normally got tired by the end of the day, I wouldn’t want to change anything about our camp, except going on a fishing trip because we learnt from this trip that all of us were sea sick. Other than that it was great FUN!!!

By Susan Nguyen