In May, a group of five intrepid Winchester Sea Cadets embarked on an unforgettable journey as part of their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award. Aged 14 to 15, these young adventurers paddled 27 miles of the picturesque River Wye with a singular goal: to photograph the diverse wildlife along the river.
Over two days, these cadets set out from Tresseck Campsite at Hoarwithy to Ross-on-Wye Club on day one and then onto Symmonds Yat for day 2. Their mission was not just a test of endurance, teamwork and navigation but also an opportunity to hone their observational and photographic skills in the heart of nature.
Challenges and Triumphs: The expedition was filled with both challenges and joyous moments. Paddling for hours each day demanded not only physical strength but also impeccable coordination and teamwork. One of the highlights was the chance to swim in the river, a refreshing break from their rigorous paddling schedule. However, the journey was not without its surprises. From encountering a dead fish to the unexpected attack by a territorial goose, each moment added to the adventure’s unpredictability.
“It was amazing seeing so much wildlife on our rivers and I learned from speaking to other paddlers about the pollution issues facing the River Wye” OC BC
The cadets navigated the river well and it helped to underscore the importance of their preparation and teamwork. It was the long distances, 27 miles of paddling self-sufficiently, while working as a team that fostered resilience and camaraderie among the team members.
“It was a big responsibility navigating and leading the team on the River. We came together as a team and I learned how important communications was.” AC S
“Working together to make sure we could pack all our kit into our boats was a challenged at first, but we overcame it” OC AF
Memorable Moments and Wildlife Encounters: The cadets recorded numerous wildlife sightings, capturing the beauty and diversity of the River Wye’s ecosystem. Their photographic records included various bird species, river fauna, and the lush landscape. These experiences not only enhanced their appreciation for nature but also taught them valuable lessons in patience and observational skills.
In addition to their primary objective, the expedition was peppered with light-hearted moments. The team enjoyed making s’mores, playing games in their tents, and even shared a laugh over the goose attack. Such moments were vital in building friendships and creating lasting memories.
Impact and Reflection: This expedition had a profound impact on both the unit and the individual participants. For the Winchester Sea Cadets, it was a demonstration of their ability to undertake and complete challenging tasks. For the cadets, it was a journey of self-discovery, teaching them new skills, enhancing their independence, and boosting their confidence.
The lessons learned and the experiences gained will undoubtedly influence their future endeavours, whether in further DofE awards or other personal pursuits. The sense of achievement and the bonds formed during this expedition will remain with them, serving as a reminder of what they can accomplish with determination and teamwork.
“It allowed me to gain a sense of independence and gave me an insight into working as a team under variable conditions – I saw we grew and became more resilient” OC BC
Looking Ahead: Reflecting on their adventure, the cadets unanimously expressed their enthusiasm for future expeditions, including the Silver DofE Award. They recognized areas for improvement, particularly in staying together as a group and ensuring everyone is adequately prepared. These reflections are crucial for their development as young leaders and team players.
In conclusion, the River Wye Wildlife Photography Journey was more than just an expedition; it was a transformative experience that enriched the lives of the Winchester Sea Cadets. It allowed the cadets to learn resilience and the importance of supporting each other as a team. Supported by the Ulysses Trust, this journey stands as a testament to the power of youth exploration and the enduring value of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
