Adventure, discovery and personal growth were at the heart of this Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Adventurous Journey for students from St Aidan's Anglican Girls' School.
Beginning on Quandamooka Country, students were met with a meaningful Welcome to Country and cultural workshop led by Quandamooka Cultural Officer Matt Burns. The experience provided valuable opportunities to deepen their understanding of Country, culture and the enduring connection of First Nations peoples to the land and sea.
The journey continued with a practice expedition to Noogoon (St Helena Island), meaning “place of flying fox", where students combined adventure with environmental investigation. As budding citizen scientists, they conducted a Moreton Bay plankton survey, explored local environmental issues and analysed water samples to monitor bay health.
Following an overnight camp at Wynnum, the group travelled to Mooloomba (Point Lookout) on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island). A highlight of the journey was the sighting of yalingbilas (humpback whales), making their own annual migration along the Queensland coast - a memorable reminder of the incredible natural wonders of Moreton Bay.
Throughout the two-day expedition, students embraced new challenges, strengthened their leadership, resilience and teamwork skills, and developed a deeper appreciation for the cultural and environmental significance of the places they explored. Congratulations to all the students and staff from St Aidan's Anglican Girls' School for their enthusiasm, perseverance and positive approach throughout their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Adventurous Journey.