Grade 5 Trip to Baynesfield - 1-3 May
Our Grade 5 boys and girls embarked on their first trip of the year to Baynesfield Lodge, resting on the banks of the beautiful Baynesfield Estate dam. It proved to be an idyllic setting for a few days filled with adventure, friendship-building, and unforgettable moments.
We arrived to fantastic weather, with bright sunshine glistening off of the dam and our eager Clifton Champions ready for action. Once settled, the boys and girls wasted no time diving into the array of activities awaiting them. From bum slides to swimming and tubing in the refreshing dam waters, the time flew by with laughter and excitement.
A hearty self-made lunch fuelled our young adventurers for the afternoon's main event, an amazing race around the dam. Canoeing and various team games tested our Grade 5’s teamwork skills, leaving them with smiles as wide as the dam itself and plenty of tales to share around the evening fire.
As night fell, we reflected on the day's highs and lows before retiring to our beds, eagerly anticipating what the next day held in store.
Our second morning greeted us with gentle sunlight, promising another day of outdoor excitement. We kicked off with a walk across the dam wall to meet the farm's fire crew, who treated us to a fascinating demonstration of forest fire management complete with an unexpected soaking with their fire hoses.
Our Bravehearts then tackled the muddy obstacle course with gusto, navigating a series of challenges that tested both their physical and mental strength. Despite the obstacles, our team spirit remained high, echoing across the dam in shouts of encouragement.
After a muddy but satisfying day, we took a leisurely hike through the Baynesfield Estate, learning about its avocado, timber and cane farming initiatives. Exhausted but content, we returned to camp to unwind by the fire and enjoy a well-deserved braai.
On our journey home, we stopped at the Baynesfield Museum and South Africa’s first butter factory. From making homemade butter, viewing the vintage farm machinery and exploring the estate's historic buildings, including the home of Joseph Baynes, the visit provided a fitting end to our adventure-filled trip.
