Woodlands Primary Fathers' And Kids' Big Camp Out. Friday March 30th'til Saturday March 31st, 2012.

Friday afternoon sees the school oval transformed into a tent city. It is the beginning of The Fathers' And Kids' Big Camp Out, a keenly anticipated and awaited event on Harry and Charlie's calendar.

The tent is put up in a surprisingly short time just as darkness falls.

The kids are very excited; they have been waiting for this night for weeks. The brainchild of parent,Tony Donaldson, The Big camp Out is an attempt to encourage more men to participate in the school's activities. I know hardly any of the guys on the oval. Now we are neighbours.

Tony calls a meeting when the tents are more or less up and we all say hello.

  

A bit more craziness ensues after dinner with a particularly spirited game of dodgeball.

After the games a movie projected onto the wall settles 'em down.

Time for bed.

Some sleep well   .   .    .

   .   .   .   Some not so well.

Morning arrives after the first almost-chilly night of the year, depositing a heavy dew over Tent City.

Breakfast.

An army of volunteers ensure that everything runs smoothly.

I have had a great time. I have met parents from my kids' school who I would probably never have met.
The boys have had a memorable and enjoyable night which they have looked forward to for weeks.
I will definitely be participating in any future events.