On arrival early Saturday morning the boys were met by the Team leaders running the camp and we all gathered around. We met Shannon (a former US Navy Seal) & Brad who gave us all a brief run down on what was install for us during our "Bonding" weekend together. The boys then quickly set up their tents and were raring to get into it.

Our first task was to work out in pairs our "step count" over 100m (this was to assist us for a mission yet to come later that evening)
Our next activity was to guide our "Buddy" who was blind folded to drop a ball in a bucket (20m away), following one of your mates instructions only (no touching etc allowed). After that we then learned how to use a compass and two way radios and were then set coordinates around the camp to find in groups of 3, which everyone did very well.

Each time we had a break and some tucker we all gathered around in our meeting spot and "checked in" to see how we were all traveling and how we were feeling about the day so far. Everyone could only talk when they had the "Ring"...(a special Navy Seal Ring Shannon was given by the family of his great mate that was killed in battle in Afghanistan). It was always a good moment when we "checked in" which we did on numerous numerous occasions though-out our stay, the boys were very honest about how they were feeling and the fun they were having.

After all the activities we then did a few Rugby Drills and relaxed for a awesome BBQ Mr P laid on and we had a few laughs and yarns about the day so far.

That evening we all dressed up in Army gear. With face paint as camouflage we were set a mission to seek and find a civilian that needed rescuing (just like real "War Fare"). Whilst on this mission we used our step count, compass and two way radio skills learned earlier to successfully complete it. At the end of the mission we sat round a camp fire and we all spoke about each others wonderful traits the we brought to the group. We also discussed some of the difficulties we all were facing in Life and ensured each other we were a team and will always stick together. We also agreed that we would always be there for each other.

It was late when we finished the mission and after a quick beer together we then hit our tents to sleep , which was difficult with Sammy, Andrew and Caleb in a tent together as they kept us all up "acting the goat." - LOL

We were up bright and early the following day and had another Rugby session before strolling the beach together and throwing the ball around and reliving yesterdays great experience. When we returned we packed up all the Tents etc and made our way to Coogee Beach and then Dome restaurant for brunch which was the final moment of a great bonding weekend together.

Huge thank you to everyone that made this experience possible (especially El - President - Mr P & manager Mike(Red) ). I know the boys had a great time and so did I.
"All for one and one for all" - Team chant.

And, MANY Thanks to the All Abilities Sponsor, ALKIRA CARE RESPITE SERVICES, for the great support to the team. It is much appreciated.

Justin Arthur (ABs Coach)