A casual conversation four years ago resulted in one of those small, almost unknown but important projects that make a difference, in this case to the learning and life experiences of students from small rural schools. Every year since that meeting, Urban Camp in Royal Park has made available limited places for small schools in regions experiencing prolonged drought so that the students can have a camp in Melbourne. Sometimes the whole school participates, as student numbers are very small, or two or more schools might combine their senior students.

LandLearn helped initiate the program and continues to provide support and school contacts. The program is also generously supported by a range of education programs with exciting locations to visit in Melbourne and by Travel On.

Since 2004, 510 students, teachers and parents from 18 schools in East Gippsland, Wimmera and Mallee have enjoyed the camps. Each year the program organisers select an area in the state based on available data and make offers to small rural schools. Places for 2007 are filled and offers for 2008 camps will be made in late Term 3 to schools in the targeted area.

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