The Northam Lions Club in Western Australia has become the most recent club to form a partnership with Outward Bound. The Club’s Secretary, Doug Lewis, spent time with Helen Doran-Wu, WA Partnership Manager and Ron De Boer, Deputy Principle Northam Senior High School, to develop the partnership and select the first participant.

Jordan Turnock, 16, was selected to attend the 2010 Spring Navigator in Walpole. Jordan joined a group of eight participants between the ages of 15 and 17 to explore the Walpole-Nornalup National Park and D'Entrecastreaux National. Two students sponsored by the Denmark Lions club where also part of the group.

On the first day of the adventure the group was given an itinerary for the duration of the camp and it was up to them to find locations and work their way to each destination. Activities included daily hiking, team building initiatives, community service, giant ladder, high and low ropes course, paddling and other water activities. Jordan also spent 24 hours by himself in the bush as a reflection time. All activities are under the guidance of supportive instructors who guide the group but are not involved in any of the decision making.

Upon his return Jordan did a brief presentation on the trip to the Lions Convention 2010 in front of 200 people. He also presented photos and his heartfelt thanks to the local Northam club at their October meeting.

“I will remember my trip with Outward Bound as a life changing experience,” Jordan said. “I got so much out of the adventure and thank Lions and the school for supporting me on the journey.”

Due to the success of the partnership and Jordan’s trip, the Northam Lions Club voted to send 2 students in 2011.