4-Hers from NW Missouri were immersed in Australian culture during the two 2008 4-H camp sessions, June 3-6 and June 10-13.
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197 campers, ages 8-13, participated in activities learning about didgeridoos, aboriginal dreamtime stories, Australian Dot Painting, Gyotaku, Australian animals in addition to the traditional camp activities of canoeing, archery, leather crafts, swimming and campfire singing.
Mizzou Collegiate 4-H presented a program to campers on the opportunities of traveling to Australia and other countries as a teen 4-H member. The dances each evening on the "slab" continue to be one of the campers’ favorite activities.
Bob Teegarden, retired 4-H Youth specialist, continues to volunteers his time for two weeks as the DJ and instructor in leather crafts. The group dances such as the Cotton Eyed Joe, Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle and the Chicken Dance are the most popular with all the ages.
Each week, 15 teen counselors supervised the cabin groups of campers and were great leaders and role models for the campers. Some of the 2008 camper awards presented by the counselors included the Camp Diva, Sleepy Head, Homesick Survivor and Most Friendly.
"Our 4-H camp will provide a safe camp to learn life skills and have fun……" was a part of the 2008 camp mission statement created by the camp counselors. Threatening weather was a challenge for the staff, but with appropriate precautions and alternative plans the campers ended each week with wonderful memories as they had an opportunity to build their friendships through positive 4-H experiences. 4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills.
Please contact your local Extension Office for 4-H and other Extension programs.
Daviess County campers included: Megan Beck, Kelsey Bird, Kourtney Bird, Maryl Chapman, Evan Colladay, Kase Critten, Kristin Critten, Elizabeth Dunnington, Megan Ellis, Ashley Huffman, Ami Lane, Tyler Lane, and Abbi Porter. A counselor from Daviess County in week two was Wren Tolen. Becky Simpson is the 4-H Youth Specialist for Daviess County. [Submitted Photos]