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Campgoers overcome fear of heights at GDV Family Camp
Victorian families with children who have blindness or low vision have traversed the Australian bush in our Guide Dogs Victoria Family Camp.
Hosted over three days from 8 to 10 April, families stayed in the picturesque Victorian countryside of Mt Evelyn near the Dandenong Ranges.
It was a chance for the whole family, from mum, dad, all the siblings and the grandparents to participate in activities with blindness or low vision in mind.
Image description: A parent experiencing a blindness simulation with his daughter. The parent has goggles on that mimic his daughter’s level of vision.
At Guide Dogs, we believe training and upskilling isn’t just about teaching the client, but including their community. It means the client doesn’t feel alone and they have people who understand their condition around them that can help.
Image Description: A participant wearing a red helmet, dangling from the flying fox with a smile on his face.
During the three day stay, the favourite activity was by far the huge flying fox, situated 10 metres in the air to propel you 90 metres to the other side.
There were a few shaky legs getting up to the platform, but with some great encouragement from all the people safe on the ground, the group was one-by-one catapulted over to the other side.
A great way to get over a fear of heights.
Image Description: Two participants pointing at the green snake in a glass enclosure.
Also a highlight was the reptile experience, where participants got to pat and feel the bumpy skin of Shingle back lizard, and see a beautiful green snake curled up on a tree branch.
Image description: Two participants gently touching the back of a Shingle back lizard.
The three-day camp’s aim was to increase orientation and mobility skills for children with blindness or low vision in a fun environment alongside their peers and family.
Guide Dogs Victoria regularly runs camps and workshops for our younger Clients.
Upcoming camps:
Mobility Olympics Primary Camp
Date: 1-3 July
What to expect: Students will travel to a range of Olympic-themed activities around Melbourne, where they will try new experiences, navigate public transport and learn about problem-solving, self-advocacy and decision-making.
Register your interest: Email Thomas at thomase@guidedogsvictoria.com.au
Secondary School Camp
Date: 23-26 September
What to expect: Try new experiences, navigate public transport and learn about problem-solving, self-advocacy and decision-making. This group will be the first to stay in the purpose-built accommodation on our world-first sensory Campus.
Register your interest: Email Thomas at thomase@guidedogsvictoria.com.au
For more information on the under 18s program at Guide Dogs Victoria, visit our tweens and teens website.
