In June the 54th Burnaby Mountain Brownies went on a fun-filled weekend camp to lovely Camp Olave on the sunshine coast. Their theme for the weekend was Happy Birthday! They celebrated Camp Olave’s 90th birthday, Canada’s 150 birthday, and even one of the Brownies’ birthdays which happened while they were at camp.

Getting to camp is part of the fun! After taking a school bus from our community out to Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal, girls passed the time with quiet games while they waited to board the boat. A quick 40 minute ferry ride later the group got on another bus which delivered them to camp.

The Brownies enjoyed the quiet setting of the Nawilak. This site has the best of both worlds — it’s a quiet secluded spot in the forest, but only a short walk to the beach. You can see the girls enjoying their beach time here.

Another great thing about this site is that in addition to the cozy cabin, there are two platform tents. Brownies who felt they were ready and interested in a platform tenting experience got the opportunity to try sleeping outdoors. Those who did loved it! It’s so great to see Brownies getting the chance to experience new things that are within their comfort levels.

The birthday celebrations happened alongside a variety of traditional camp activities. The girls (and the leaders!) enjoyed trying their hand at archery. It’s tricky to do, but lots of fun.

Brownies love doing arts and crafts. These girls were pretty excited to get to decorate their own keepsake T-shirt which they can keep as an awesome camp souvenir.

It wouldn’t be camp without campfire. On the way home when asked what was her favourite part of camp, one girl replied “roasting things!” The group really got into the campfire spirit by trying out different things that can be cooked over an open flame. They roasted marshmallows, hotdogs, and even perogies over the fire!

The very best part of camping, of course, is spending time with Brownie friends and making memories to last a life time.

Now that’s something worth celebrating.

A huge thank you to the volunteers who make special trips like this possible. Girls love going to camp and experiences like these are part of what makes Girl Guides of Canada so special for girls in our communities.