Grad ‘17 Tackles Strathcona

29 October 2013Linnea M

Since the start of the year, we Grade 9s have been hearing all about of the terrors and horrors that we must endure in early October. This dreaded place is known as Strathcona, at the far northern, cold, rainy reaches of Vancouver Island. When we arrived at Strathcona Park Lodge we discovered the groups we’d be in for the week. These peers were the ones we’d bond with the most; they’d help you through all your struggles. Heading to the dining room, we all recalled the rumors about the infamous Strathcona food, but, much our surprise, we all really enjoyed it. The weekend presented us with many challenges including canoeing seven kilometers to Rainbow Island. There, with teamwork, we set up the tarp, built a fire, and cooked our food. Some of us learned, for the first time, what it felt like to sleep on the ground, with the only shelter being a tarp. Many of us considered this trip the highlight of the whole week. The rest of the week the groups alternated between kayaking, rock climbing, zip lining, hiking, and a ropes course. We challenged ourselves and supported each other. As we got to know the people in our group, we began to think about what totem animal we each are. Each has different characteristics. The images chosen would later create a totem pole. The pole represented a story from our adventures that week. We ended this week with a nice big campfire where each group preformed their prepared skit or song. Some brave individuals even stood up and performed on their own. The week was filled with laughter, bonding, challenges, and support. Despite the great times, the cheers going through the Brentwood gates made it evident that we were all ready to come home. The trip really brought our grade together and I am thrilled to be spending the next four years with these people. A big thanks goes out to the great Strathcona staff and the brave Brentwood staff, Mr. Norman, Mrs. Felix, Mr. Griffiths, Ms. Mannion, Mr. Farrell & Mrs. Whitney, who joined us on our adventure. Linnea M, Allard ‘17

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