Thursday, July 3, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Hearts Full And Memories Made

Sony Camp Returns To Whitsunday Anglican

Whitsunday Anglican School once again proudly hosted the Mackay Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp, held from Saturday 21 to Monday 23 June 2025, marking 11 years of supporting local families through this much-loved initiative.

Sony Camp is a unique programme that offers 18 young people in the region with a disability the opportunity to enjoy a three-day holiday camp experience filled with fun, connection, and care.

This important initiative is Australia-wide and has been hosted in Mackay by Whitsunday Anglican School since 2014.

One hundred and thirty students (in Years 8 - 12) from Whitsunday Anglican School volunteered to help take on the responsibility of caring for children with disabilities over their school holidays.

Fifty Year 11 students had the fundamental role of acting as primary companions and carers of the campers.

Sony Camp Coordinator, Mrs Trisha McHugh, said they were looking forward to the inspirational experience.

“The event is challenging, but incredibly rewarding.

“Over three days our students will support their camper to do everything from swimming and games, to craft, gymnastics and movies! As well as take them through the day-to-day necessities.

“For our campers and their families, Sony Camp creates memories they cherish, and for some campers, the opportunity to do something they wouldn’t normally be able to participate in at home.”

Whitsunday Anglican School Principal, Mr Andrew Wheaton, said the school was proud to participate in such an enriching event for the eleventh year running.

“Sony Camp is a wonderfully transformational leadership experience that allows our students to provide true service in action.

“Students volunteer their time over the school holidays to provide much-needed respite to families of children with disabilities.

“It is also a lot of fun, and it provides a tremendous camp experience for those attending! It was a lot of fun for everyone involved - campers, students and staff alike!

“We are so proud to have hosted our eleventh camp at Whitsunday Anglican School, where we have ensured this wonderful event has continued to serve the Mackay community since 2014,” he said.

Whitsunday Anglican School proudly hosted its 11th Mackay Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp, offering children with disabilities a joyful three-day experience while students provided care, companionship, and lasting memories. Photos supplied

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