Sixteen young people had a blast dancing under the stars in WA at Canteen’s inaugural festival event – CanChella!
As part of the WA EXPLORE 2022 program at stunning Swan Valley in October, the young participants, supported by 13 staff members, took part in a variety of exciting activities over three fun-filled days.
This included everything from canoeing, trivia, crafts, a crate-stack climbing challenge, as well as the CanChella main event on Day 2, which saw our young people rocking the night away to local Perth musicians.
Setting the stage
Day one of camp kicked off with a Welcome to Country and fun greeting session before our young people took part in team-building obstacle courses.
That night’s activity included a hilarious ’80s and Stranger Things-themed trivia session, before lots of singing, dancing and prize giveaways. It was a fantastic first day for all involved, and set the scene for what was to come…
A cracking concert
The second day began with discussion groups and craft activities outside under the trees, before a picnic lunch. This was followed by a kayaking session along the picturesque Swan River, and then an energetic crate-stack climbing challenge.
Despite all the fun, everyone was primed for the main event of the evening – CanChella – and it didn’t disappoint!
The music event saw our young people dancing under a star-studded Swan Valley sky to Perth hip-hop legends Jory Yungsta and Chatters, along with indie-rocker Mia June, and hip-hop collective Racka Chachi.
All the dance floor action was fuelled by a delicious dinner of woodfired pizzas followed by fruit-based ice-creams.
CanChella, a first for Canteen, was regarded as the highlight of camp for the young people and support staff alike. All agreed it was an awesome night.
The fun final act
But the fun didn’t end there. The third, and final, day started with spirited discussion groups and a popular teamwork challenge – this time an escape room where our young people put their problem-solving skills to the test.
The action-packed event wrapped with a leisurely lunch followed by free time for our young participants to relax and reflect on a good time.
It’s safe to say WA EXPLORE 2022 was a huge hit with all who took part. The program was a great mix of friendship, fun and laugher, as well as valuable peer support, positivity and personal skills developed over the event-filled three days.
We’re happy to report that an amazing time was had by all – as we now turn our hearts, minds and dancing shoes to the next one.
