Duke of Edinburgh Award - Gold Practice and Qualifying Expedition

An enthusiastic group of Secondary students recently completed the practice and qualifying journey for the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. The practice journey, conducted over two weekends, focused on learning safety skills, such as deep water rescues, as well as basic paddling skills in different environments including the Albert River and Wyaralong Dam.

The qualifying journey took the group north to the Noosa River on the Sunshine Coast. Starting at Elanda Point, the adventurers made their way across Lake Cootharaba, through the Everglades to Harry's Hut. From there, the group explored the upper reaches of the Noosa River, and also completed a 12km bush walk to the Cooloola Sandpatch. This walk follows the Cooloola Great Walk, meandering through coastal heath along a low sandy ridge and then clambering up the steep but shaded sides of the Cooloola Sandmass. The group was exhilarated after making it to the edge of the Cooloola Sandpatch, which is 2km long and bare of vegetation.The final leg of the journey, through the upper Noosa River catchment, including Lake Cooloola, Lake Como and Lake Cootharaba provided beautiful scenery and panoramic views.

Excellent weather and team camaraderie ensured the expedition was an enjoyable experience for all candidates and staff. Congratulations to all participants.

Please enjoy a snapshot of memories created, including a short video of the adventure here.