Read below for a recap of Days 1 to 3 of the Leonora Bush Mission so far!
This year we set off to represent the momentous news of Jesus Christ to the kids of Leonora. This year’s theme is The One True God. We will use the story of the Exodus to point the kids to the God who hears, the God who rescues, and the God who provides.
Day 1 and 2 by Samson and Maffew
We got on the bus and were waved off by a crowd of our families. We drove in three hours blocks, stopping at three gas stations. Half of WA’s money was traded in for snacks and lollies – very, very, very expensive snacks and lollies. We talked, we sung, and we had fun along the way. We drove from 8am to 8pm, finally arriving in Leonora. We unloaded all our baggage at the rec centre and headed off to the sports centre to get some rest.
We woke up the next morning, some early and some late, for the view that was worth the wait. We sat and admired the rising sun as we ate our Indo-mie (instant noodles). We got up and trekked to church under the stifling heat and buzzing flies. After that, we walked to the rec centre, where we set up for the program and played basketball. Then we hopped on a small, rattling bus; some sitting and others standing. We sang on the way up to Malcolm Dam, where we foraged for fruits, shrubs and flowers, enjoying God’s creation.
Then we headed back to base to relax and were surprised for dinner with a fancy Italian restaurant scene with candles and checkered tablecloths. The chefs, wearing bristly moustaches, prepared us a three-course meal consisting of garlic bread, spaghetti and chocolate mousse. After dinner, we gathered around for worship, and sang to Mr T’s guitar and the kids dancing.
We packed and walked homeward under the stars to get ready for bed. The final preparations, rehearsals and the opening BBQ with the Leonora community at the oval awaits us tomorrow!
Day 3 by Anna and Rebekah
“Early morning, the golden sunrise blessed our eyes as we got ready to embark on new adventures. We sat together, picked a selection of lovely foods, and ate delicious meals to fulfil our hunger. There were enlightening verses being shared as we read our Bibles. We read Isaiah 57:15 and shared our thoughts and views on the Lord’s word.
We visited the ghost town; a multitude of houses left abandoned, which gave the Year 10 students something to explore. There were a variety of different houses with items still in them. After an hour or so of exploring, the Year 10s all met at the rec centre and wraps were provided for our lunch.
After lunch, we prepared our drama and music performances for the children’s arrival the next day. After setting up, everyone went to the sports oval to prepare for the afternoon barbecue. Some of us cooked the sausages, whilst others played some games with the children.
There were smiles on everyone’s faces as we all came together as a community for the first time of the trip. We also learned each other’s names as we spent time together. Once the sun was setting, we all went our separate ways to enjoy some rest.”
– By Anna
“We woke up in the morning and enjoyed the lovely outdoors with breakfast, and lots of chatter. We spent time exploring the history of Gwalia, and gained a glimpse of the way life was back then. Afterwards we headed to the rec centre and spent some time together decorating the centre in an Egyptian style, rehearsing our lines, prepping materials, and running through what our time with the kids would look like.
After lunch, we had more time for preparations. Then we headed back to the sports club to reflect and relax for a short time. Then it was back at it again. We prepared to receive children and adults alike for the opening of the Bush Mission with hot dogs and ice cream, and many a fun games played. During the night, we spent some time chatting and preparing for the days ahead.”
– By Rebekah
