Year 9 Shvil Yisrael Camp
The Year 9 students recently went to an Israel camp. We were fortunate enough to be joined by 3 Madrichim from Israel. During this amazing camp we were able to immerse ourselves in the rich history of Israel, and discover connections between ourselves and such a wonderful part of the world. We learned about the modern politics of Israel, the history, different styles of Judaism and also social hierarchy in Israel. We stayed at a fantastic campsite, called Wombat Corner, in Emerald.
Throughout the camp we were able to explore the nature around us, jump on trampolines, have camp fires, sing songs and bond with one another. I personally found that I strengthened my connections with the whole year level at this camp, and this seminar also showed me that my direct connection with many people in my year level is Judaism and tradition. Please click here to see images from the camp.
Over the course of this camp, my knowledge and understanding of Israeli culture increased most of all. As someone who hasn’t been to Israel, it can be hard to have a real connection, but by having this camp, it has not only prepared me for Yesh, so I can appreciate it even more, it has shown me where I have come from, and who a part of me is. We had chats about Issues in Israel, we did role play as different societies in Israel, we discussed the people of Israel, we listened to music and we played games with relation to Israel, society and the Jewish people.
Throughout camp we went on some nature walks, and we even got to visit the Puffing Billy, which is a steam engine that was stopped near our camp. During one of the nature walks, we saw a large hill, and in a split second we all released our inner children, and had a massive roly-poly race. We also played Asher Myerson’s original game, Slinky. Ruach was an absolute blast as always, as well as our amazing Shabbat service, which consisted of singing, instrument playing, and eating yummy food!
I would like to thank all the amazing staff and the madrichim who all made this camp possible. I think we all made memories that we will all hold close. I am so grateful that I get to be in such a loving and caring community like KDS.
Dali (Year 9)