Navigation, teamwork and outdoor skills were put to the test during a Pathfinder expedition at Thirlmere Lakes National Park (NSW) from June 5 to 7, bringing together more than 500 Pathfinders and leaders from across the Greater Sydney Conference.
More than 50 teams navigated the bush using maps and compasses, locating 52 checkpoints across the park’s lakes, ridges and valleys. The weekend also included worship, camping and activities designed to develop leadership, resilience and cooperation.
Sabbath worship included a message from Illawarra Pathfinder Club director Steven Rajcany encouraging Pathfinders to persevere in faith and rely on God, drawing lessons from the life of Nehemiah.
Greater Sydney Conference youth director Pastor Dejan Stojkovic said the expedition became much more than an outdoor challenge. “Pathfinders stopped to help one another, encouraged the struggling, shared the load and refused to let anyone fall behind,” he said. “The real victory was in reaching one another.”
The event was supported by volunteers who established communications across the course, operated a base camp and set up water stations to ensure participants’ safety throughout the expedition.
Pathfinder Washe Mutseriwa said the experience taught valuable lessons beyond navigation. “During this expedition I learned so much about patience, sacrifice for one another and the unity that can tackle all tasks,” he said.
Pastor Stojkovic said the weekend demonstrated how outdoor adventure can strengthen friendships, develop leadership and encourage young people in their faith.
