ANZ Staff Foundation Supports Camp

ANZ Staff Foundation Supports Camp

December 22, 2011

Over the December 9 – 11 weekend, children who usually miss out on Interchange recreational opportunities, got the chance to attend a camp which was supported by the ANZ Staff Foundation. The camp was an extra little surprise for families before the school holidays, who, for different reasons don’t always have access to camps and recreation activities.

Interchange Outer East, Camp Coordinator, Sarah Ward said, “For each family invited, there was a different set of circumstances but they all had one thing in common, they were in desperate need of a break.

“For one boy, having a volunteer on camp who he knew really well helped hugely to treat the anxiety and homesickness he usually feels that prevents him from attending other respite. This meant that his family could get their first weekend long break since his birth.

“All 4 children from one family attended, which gave their mum who has been very unwell for a long time a much needed break, as well as a chance for the kids to get a holiday, which due to mum’s sickness wouldn’t happen otherwise.

“For another family the chance for both children to attend meant that the parents felt more at ease, whereas previously they felt uncomfortable letting only one child go by themself.

“For others it was simply a lack of funds that prevented respite and this free camp enabled these families’ children to attend.” said Sarah.

The camp provided opportunities for 14 children, 9 volunteers and 2 staff. ANZ staff member and Interchange volunteer Kevin Smyth said, “I’m so pleased that I came on this camp and the my workplace supported such a great project, it’s important for all kids to have fun and experience new activities and we certainly did that!”

The holiday was based in Queenscliff at a location just two minutes walk from the beach, making it the perfect holiday place, especially with children. Camp participants and volunteers enjoyed the weather, building sandcastles, boats and even drawing their favourite cartoon characters on the beach. Some even braved the cold water and went swimming.

Many games of soccer and table tennis were played and lots of drawing and Uno. The group also took a trip on the ferry to Sorrento in the rain, many of the kids loved it, saying it was like a pirate ship and making up all sorts of stories. On the Sunday they packed up and headed back to Melbourne via Luna Park, which was a hit with everyone.

Participant Sophie said it was “the best camp ever!” and it’s a sentiment that seems to have been shared by all.

A huge thank you to the ANZ Staff Foundation and volunteer Kevin Smyth for being involved in this special camp and providing opportunities to the children who attended and their families.

For more information regarding the ANZ Staff Foundation camp or supporting Interchange Outer East activities please contact Rebecca Gallaher via email rebecca.gallaher@ioe.org.au  or telephone 9758 5522.

By Sarah Ward & Rebecca Gallaher