Over three days and two nights, 16 QAHS adventurers embraced the challenge of hiking 42 kilometres through the magnificent trails of Lamington National Park as part of their Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Queensland Silver Award journey.
Clear, sunny but cold weather conditions provided a beautiful backdrop as students traversed varying terrain and forests along the Ship's Stern, Coomera Falls and Caves Circuits. Along the way, they experienced the many wonders of nature and biodiversity, with the lush rainforest, diverse plant life and breathtaking mountain views making the journey truly memorable.
The journey was a wonderful reflection of the IB Learner Profile in action. Students demonstrated risk-taking as they embraced physical and environmental challenges, while their tenacity, teamwork and positive mindset reflected the qualities of being balanced and caring members of a learning community. Their curiosity and enthusiasm for cultural, environmental and historical knowledge also highlighted the qualities of inquirers and open-minded learners.
One student reflected on the journey as a “remarkable adventure" that extended their physical abilities and highlighted the importance of maintaining a positive mindset when facing challenges. They shared that the experience taught them the importance of persevering through pain and struggles while also taking time to appreciate the spectacular views and the lessons nature provides.
The student also developed a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of rainforest ecosystems, reflecting on how different trees, plants, weeds and birds contribute to the rainforest, canopy and dry lands by providing habitats for species and other living organisms.
Our adventurers are to be commended for their perseverance, teamwork and positive approach throughout the journey. Their ability to embrace challenge, learn from their surroundings and support one another exemplifies the holistic development encouraged through the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
We are grateful for our partnership with Numinbah Valley Environmental Education Centre and extend a special thank you to the team for their leadership and support in enabling this memorable journey.
Please see below reflections from Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award adventurers:
Year 10 Student: Prithm Dahliwal
"The Duke of Edinburgh Silver Qualifying journey was challenging, but a rewarding experience. I learned a lot about being resilient, working in a team and being independent throughout the journey, I improved my camping skills by setting up tents, preparing meals and taking responsibility for my equipment. We completed hikes of 8km, 21km and 5km, with the 21km hike being the longest I have ever done. It tested both my physical and mental endurance, and we also had to navigate carefully throughout the hike. Working together to read maps, stay on track and lead the group to the end of the hike taught me that when we communicate and collaborate, we can achieve a lot more. Overall, the experience pushed me outside my comfort zone and strengthened my ability to persevere through challenges while working effectively with others".
Year 10 Student: Xeline Gochuico
"The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a program that encourages young people to develop new skills, give back to their community and challenge themselves to the best of their capabilities.
Doing the Duke of Ed helped me grow as a person and learn new skills such as resilience, perseverance and hard work. Some parts were definitely challenging but despite this, I enjoyed every moment of the journeys. The skills I gained along the way will continue to help me in my school, everyday life and any future opportunities that may arise.
I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking to participate next year".
Congratulations to our QAHS Duke of Edinburgh adventurers on a fantastic achievement!
Alita Lee
Deputy Principal