Service in Action

Four days of hiking through the steep rocky inclines of the Warrumbungles, experiencing spectacular chilly sunrises , all added to the adventure for our Gold Duke of Edinburgh girls as they completed their practice hike during the Easter break. 

Amazingly the girls were put into practice the skills they learned when they completed the Broze Award when they came across a pair of hiker in need.

A young man had broken his fibula in a remote location, and his friend was at a loss as to how to move him to get help. Guided by their team leaders, Amanda and Marty Burney, who are adept at wilderness first aid, the girls used an air mattress to make a makeshift moon boot, tarp poles and a hammock to make a stretcher, then carried him down to where NPWS staff could evacuate him.The next week, he contacted our College Principal to praise and thank everyone involved.

The good news story went viral online and was picked up by ABC New England NorthWest Breakfast Radio presenter Kristy Reading, who interviewed Ms Amanda Burney, Year 11 student Steph Blake and injured hiker Thomas. You can listen to the interviews HERE

They join over 8 million young people worldwide who have participated in the Duke of Edinburgh Award program, where people aged 14 to 24 explore their full potential by volunteering in the community and undertaking outdoor expeditions. Gold is the third and final level of the Award, and takes a minimum of 12 months to complete.

You can see the photos and video from our New Zealand 2025 Duke of Ed Gold Award HERE

Ad Astra girls!

See the 2025 Gold New Zealand hike phtos HERE