SISTER2sister NEWS
Best Ever Butterfly Bootcamp!
- By Louise Moule
It's hard to believe that another Bootcamp has been and gone. This is the fifth year that I have had the privilege of being part of this phenomenal experience, and I can say without qualification that it was the best ever.
The Foundation has itself grown over the years, and the dedicated team of volunteers under the unswerving motivation and support of Lyndal Keith ensured that this camp was the smoothest ever. The fact that our numbers were smaller than in previous years meant that by the time we all met at Naamaroo for that nerve-wracking first morning, all the Big Sisters had already started to get to know each other through the training program, and new friendships were already forming.
Once the Little Sisters had picked out their new Big Sisters from some rather fabulous teenage photos, the great start to the camp went from strength to strength over the four days, as we participated in a multitude of activities, often under the guidance of expert guest presenters.
Starting with a fun ‘icebreaking' outdoor session in the glorious sunshine, there was much fun and frivolity as we boxed, canoed, did board breaking, and showed off our many creative skills as we danced and sang, not to mention strutting our stuff on the cat walk.
More serious topics were also covered, as the girls learned how to set goals, how to build resilience – and how to walk across broken glass with Olympic Gold Medalist Kerri Pottharst!
Our Big Sisters are to be applauded for their tireless commitment, enthusiasm and participation throughout the program. They showed endless good humour and patience, and won the respect and affections of the Little Sisters, who recognised them for being the wonderful women and outstanding role models that they are.
Yet as always, the stars of the show are our Little Sisters. This year, the girls were exceptional – without a doubt they were some of the best that we have ever been lucky enough to have in the program. Their unfailing enthusiasm, determination to give everything a go, and their strength of character is truly humbling and inspiring.
They made us laugh with their antics (our team had an absolute ball canoeing – and swimming – on and then in the river!), and then they made us cry with pride at their graduation night. What the girls achieved in just four days is an inspiration to us all, and we are excited to be with them on their journey over the next eight months.
On behalf of the Team Leaders – Jane, Jenny and myself – we would like to offer an enormous thank you to everyone who helped make Bootcamp happen, no matter how small their contribution.
The impact on the Little sisters is phenomenal, and for those of us who are lucky enough to be part of this program, the special memories will also be treasured for years to come.
We're looking forward to a wonderful eight months ahead, and to watching our own little butterflies emerge from their cocoons before spreading their wings and flying off to many great things at the end of the program.
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