By Erin Martin
On November 2nd and 3rd, the Karoo Kids Club hosted an inspiring boys’ camp at the stunning Bonniedale Holiday Farm near Vanwyksdorp. In partnership with the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR), this environmental education-focused retreat was designed to immerse young minds in the wonders of nature while fostering independence and environmental awareness.
A Collaborative Effort for Positive Impact
Representing GCBR, Leila Moosajee, Purnille Albertyn, and Erin Martin joined forces with Karoo Kids Club leaders Amanda Young, Janine Howard, André Britz, and Liza van Coppenhagen (Lizzy). Together, they brought their passion for conservation and education to life, creating a supportive and engaging atmosphere for the boys to learn and grow.
The children were divided into small groups of six, each led by a dedicated adult mentor. These leaders provided guidance, encouraged participation, and ensured that every child had the chance to connect with the environment in a meaningful way.
Adventure, Learning, and Discovery
The camp kicked off with introductions around the braai spot. The excitement was palpable as the boys settled into their tents and headed for their first adventure: a refreshing swim in the Kamma River.
The next day, André Britz led a nature walk, blending exploration with education. Along the trail, the children learned about the detrimental effects of alien invasive species like Black Wattle on indigenous plants, the crucial roles insects and reptiles play in the ecosystem, and the impact of soil erosion. The hands-on activity of removing invasive plant saplings gave the boys a chance to contribute to environmental conservation directly.
Armed with newfound knowledge, the boys documented their experiences in workbooks, adding notes, drawings, and natural mementoes to capture their learning. And, of course, there was always time for another splash in the river, which quickly became a highlight for many.
Nurturing Curiosity Through Hands-On Experiences
The evening at the camp was filled with joy and discovery. The children warmed themselves by the fire, enjoyed a delicious braai, and indulged in sweet treats like marshmallows roasted over the flames. Lizzy facilitated a fascinating insect activity using torches and a white sheet, sparking curiosity, and encouraging discussions about the importance of even the smallest creatures in our ecosystem.
Before bedtime, the children reflected on their day with hot chocolate in hand, recounting their adventures and insights. For many, this was their first-time experiencing life away from home, and for some, the first-time they ever left Vanwyksdorp, adding an extra layer of significance to the camp.
A Lasting Impression
The camp concluded with a quiet morning nature walk, where the boys practiced mindfulness, observing the world around them with new eyes. Their final activity involved tackling invasive Black Wattle trees and learning about indigenous plant species. Breakfast was followed by one last dip in the river, where they marvelled at a frog carrying eggs—a magical moment that perfectly encapsulated the wonder of nature.
As the children said their goodbyes, heartfelt gratitude filled the air. Each boy thanked their leaders for an unforgettable experience, and it was clear that the camp had left a lasting impression. Beyond the environmental lessons, the boys had grown in confidence, independence, and appreciation for the world around them.
A Call to Action for Future Generations
This camp wasn’t just an adventure; it was a call to action. By teaching the boys about conservation and the interconnectedness of all living things, the Karoo Kids Club and GCBR planted seeds of environmental stewardship in the next generation.
As the quote reminds us:
“Instead of buying our children all the things we never had, maybe we should start teaching them all the things we were never taught.” – Bruce Lee
Here’s to many more camps that inspire young hearts and minds to cherish and protect our planet!
