Livingston, Parker Cryer, Charlotte Tonissen and Malcolm Gillette recently participated in a three day kayaking trip at Myall Lake with kayak guide Ivan Macfadyen (from
Walking Rivers outdoor adventure company). ▪ Photo contributed
Five Duke of Edinburgh participants from Cobar (Caleb Theakston, Parker Cryer, Charlotte Tonissen, Jasmine Livingston and Malcolm Gillette) recently completed the Adventurous Journey component of their award.
The group attended a three day kayaking trip north of Newcastle at Myall Lake.
The first day was the Practice Journey.
This involved training with their guide, Ivan Macfadyen, in all the necessary skill areas that they would need to proficiently maneuver the kayak and camp outdoors.
The second day was the first part of the Qualifying Journey.
During the first night, the participants experienced wet weather and learnt how to continue to survive even when life gets a little damp.
The rain continued all throughout the second day until 5pm.
They did not let that stop them, and although they started the day feeling unenthusiastic, Ivan soon lifted their spirits and got them all eager to begin their kayaking.
The trip began at 10am and they arrived at their destination four and a half hours later.
They kayaked approximately 16km with a few breaks due to the conditions.
The participants pushed through even though the rain was persistent and did not stop.
On the final day, the group started their day bright and early at 6am.
They paddled the final 12km back to where they began and had the joy of perfect conditions. Not only was the wind in their favour but they had sunlight!
They also got to stop halfway where some of the participants enjoyed the luxury of eating hot chips.
The trip may have been dampened with over 50mm of rain however the group learnt a lot and left with great memories that they won’t be forgetting for a long time.
The group was assisted with a generous donation from MAC Copper CSA Mine and appreciated the mentoring and guiding provided by Ivan Macfadyen throughout their journey.
The participants were also assisted by Louise McKervey who helped to facilitate the Cobar Duke of Edinburgh group, and Sarah Theakston who organised the journey and drove over 1,000km so the participants could successfully complete their Adventurous Journey Goal.—Written by Charlotte Tonissen with input from other Duke of Edinburgh participants, Jasmine Livingston, Parker Cryer, Caleb Theakston and Malcolm Gillette.
