On 7 to 8 November, a group of students took part in a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh International Award Camp in Brisbane. Most were taking part in their second camp which was there qualifying camp and one student was on her first practice camp. The Urban Exploration was part of the requirements of the Adventurous Journey component of the Award.

Students explored the city environment working upon personal projects on urban related topics. They carried out a comparative study of the predominantly manicured Brisbane Parks with the Gold Coast’s more natural untouched parklands. Topics include the impact of humans on the environment, how do cycle paths, designated pathways and footpaths etc impact on the natural features on the park and what is the impact of artificially designed parks on the natural environment (fauna and flora).

All students had a great time and the group dynamics, team spirit and enthusiastic approach to leadership tasks during the weekends activities was excellent. The weather was perfect for exploring the streets and suburbs of Queensland’s capital. Venues visited included Roma Street Parklands, New Farm Park, Southbank and Brisbane’s Botanical Gardens.

The students were accompanied by AB Paterson’s Head of Outdoor Education Andrew Sole and Mathematics teacher Monica Olivier.

Andrew Sole | Head of Outdoor Education