Lasting friendships formed at Diabetes Camps
See you next Summer!
The first of our Summer Diabetes Camps was five days of fun and freedom for 66 campers aged between 9 and 11.
Junior campers from all over Victoria and even southern NSW adventured in Anglesea, with 32 volunteers and 18 health professionals supporting our campers.
First times for so many!
The action-packed Junior program included surfing, canoeing, a giant swing and a trip to Geelong’s Adventure Park.
For some campers, it was their first time away from home and was marked with other milestones, including trying a new injection site for the very first time. The camp ended with all enjoying a roaring jungle-themed disco.
Our second camp was held at Somers on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula for teenagers aged 15-17 years old.
It was hot, muggy and there was the odd spot of rain; but a great time was had by all 46 campers over the five days. Among the cohort was three sets of siblings, who came from all across the state.
The highlights included an a-maze-ing time at Boneo, dolphin watching, surfing, some quality time with AFL footballer Paddy McCartin (from the St Kilda Football Club… also a former camper), hands-on cooking, colour wars and a glitter-themed disco!
We’re thrilled that many of those attending their last camp have indicated they’d like to return as volunteers in the future, as there were many great examples of leadership on display at Somers.
Many thanks to the hardworking Diabetes Victoria staff and volunteers who made these camps a positive adventure for kids and teens with type 1 diabetes – particularly those who joined in the spirit of the occasion by camping out themselves.
Diabetes Victoria has been proudly delivering camps for children with type 1 diabetes since 1954 and in collaboration with the Royal Children's and Monash Children's Hospitals since 2001.
