We're still here…..

In case you're wondering….we're still here….but not for much longer! We had an epic day yesterday…'full on' with awesome adventures, great experiences, amazing talent, scrumptious food…so much so that we all (and that includes me!) fell into bed, exhausted but extemely happy! So sorry that I didn't get to post anything last night. Still having a few IT issues, but they're being sorted, and hopeful I will be able to add some more photos soon. The plan is to 'settle in' on the bus shortly, and as we tour through Hobart and beyond, give you further updates. Stay tuned…..

Breakfast with a view…

Waking up to yet another beautiful day, only made better by such a beautiful view from the dining room. We didn't get much time to enjoy the view the night we arrived as we were 'beaten' by light. We couldn't hang around for long and enjoy it in the morning either as we needed to make tracks for 'Pirates Cove' and the Eco Jetboat cruise. We were entertained by Cam and his pirate antics along the way……Cam: "Why are pirates called pirates?" Others: "I don't know, why?" Cam: "Because they argghh" (all in a thick pirate accent!). The trip in was very interesting and scenic, but quite windy…. most of us managed to get there intact! 

'Not quite' dressed ready for action….

All good now!

More than a few anxious participants voiced their apprehension at what the trip would be like, and yet when it came time to board, the front 'thrill seeker' seats were in high demand, and filled fast! The atmosphere was one of anticipation…. the surge of motors and spray of seawater as we 'took' off only added to it!

The famous Tasman Arch

The scenery along the coastline was spectacular! So good to be able to see it up so close. Ben-the-boat driver/tour-guide kept us well informed with fascinating facts about the ecology and history of the area. Mr Leon was suitably impressed and was heard to say on occasion "Listen up…..that'll be on the Geography exam!" Miss Roser was equally impressed with all the wildlife and started 'Animal Bingo'. The weather conditions on the day involved a moderate north easterly wind, partly cloudy, with cool crisp air, made all the cooler when the wind chill factor is considered (for Mr MacCallums benefit….) The trip out to Tasman Island was relatively smooth, punctuated with short sojourns into the cliff face to visit caves, interesting rock formations, wildlife colonies and even a waterfall. 

Animal bingo! Found a seal :)

At the half way point, there was nothing much between us and Antarctica, except for a lot of cold water! It was also an ideal time for a 'changeover' to allow those who wanted to…. to move from the back to the front. A few ventured to do this. The divide soon became very obvious….

Those up the back….

…and those up the front!

Turning into the wind, the swell increased, and we were in for one roller-coaster of a ride, complete with the raised hands, flying hair and screams! Those up the front didn't want it to end….. and those up the back couldn't wait until it did!

Hang on….where did all the kids go?

'Chilling out in the sun' or 'Replentishing lost supplies' (for some) aka Lunch at Port Arthur

Port Arthur was our afternoon activity. Fascinating history, conveyed interactively and complimented by an engaging tour guide helped to keep our guys on their feet. At this stage of the trip, it wouldn't have been surprising to have many of the kids struggling to stay focussed and engaged, but they were great!

Watch your step!

Not quite our final 'Port of call'

So much to learn….

Back at camp, the outside games area was replaced by the games room as soon as it got dark. This area kept most people busy whenever there was any 'down' time, not that there was much of it. 

Can he do it?

At dinner time, a 'set list' was made of all the acts that were scheduled for the talent quest. It became obvious that we needed an early start to fit it all in. From skits, comedy, practical jokes to musical items, photo and art displays, we were thoroughly entertained and all impressively hosted by Brooklyn and Teagan. 

End of a great day