Outdoor Adventure and Inner Exploration
Big walking, river crossings and learning as we went about the geology and ecology of The Barrington’s and its wild rivers, was at the essence of the 4 day adventure at Wangat last week. We also explored our inner soul-scapes in connection to this place, opening our senses to the beauty and inter-relationship that was around us, and the wisdom and life lessons we could draw from this and integrate into our lives. One part of our trek was dubbed by the weary, Useless Loop as we descended back to the place we had lunched. Yet we also reflected that it was on this same loop, we had followed a mysterious trail that led to a spectacular forest of grey gums (currently smooth and bold orange trunks).
We also asked geographical questions such as what happens to a river habitat when it is dammed? And out of an interesting discussion arose another question, What happens to we humans when we dam rivers? – this question arising after visiting the huge human-made concrete structure of the Chichester Dam (which is another kind of marvel in itself), then plunging once again into rainforest downstream to arrive at a fig tree likely to be 400 years old!
We finished our river explorations with a river ceremony. From the kernel of our experience of this river system, we recalled other river journeys (including dams) such as Kangaroo Valley and our own Blue Mountains catchment, then went on to consider the critical condition of the Menindee Lakes and its connection to the Murray-Darling river system. For all the rivers, the precious givers of life, we offered a rain song, a moment of care and consciousness.
Originally a high school teacher in the public system, Lynn has also taught at TAFE and in community settings. In the Steiner context, she has previously been a kindergarten and primary school teacher. In addition to her roles as Chair and Principal, Lynn is High School Co-Ordinator, teaches Geography and History, and co-ordinates the Outdoor Education Programme. Lynn has a B. Arts (UWA) and a Dip. Ed. (WA Secondary Teachers College).
