After 2 years impacted by the pandemic, 2022 saw us getting back to normal, and what a busy year we’ve had. It’s been fantastic to see young people on site, enjoying the facilities and environment the campsite offers.
Our year got off to a flying start, with over 30 people and an assortment of dogs venturing out on a crisp New Years’ day for our annual walk.
The first phase of the toilet refurbishment was completed in March, with the toilets being ready for the start of the new season. They are a great improvement, and it wouldn’t be the Oaks without the use of green and yellow in the colour scheme. The phase 2 refurbishment is now underway during the Winter closure period.
March also saw the start of the Monday Maintenance Team. Although small in number, they’ve been busy, doing maintenance and jobs around the site. They’re a friendly bunch, and would welcome new members. If anyone has a couple of hours to fill on a Monday morning, and enjoys coffee and cake, then spread the word and join them. No skills needed, just a willingness to join in.
The Spring and Summer months were very busy, with both buildings booked out most weekends, and campers out on the main field. It’s to the credit of our willing volunteers that we managed to fulfil every booking, including those made for mid-week evening visits. All of the activities have been well booked, with the Jungle Trail proving very popular on Summer evenings.
October saw the inaugural Oaks Shooting and Archery competition. This was well supported, with over 50 Scouts, Explorers and Leaders taking part in the competition. We will look to make this an annual event. We also collected and circulated acorns to all Beaver and Cubs sections in the 2 Districts, encouraging them to “Grow an Oak for the Oaks”, to celebrate the jubilee and passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Sections will be invited to site to plant their trees during 2024, as part of our 50th anniversary events.
Over the year, our volunteers have been busy, doing the regular maintenance tasks needed to keep the site at its best. The main field has been harrowed and regularly mowed, though the rising summer temperatures saw the grass turn brown. However, the grass quickly recovered with the first couple of Autumn showers. The floor finish in the bouldering wall has been replaced, the grass sledges have had a major overhaul and now fly down the hill, the ride on mower has had major repairs, the DofE wash up points have been completed, lighting and fire alarm have been replaced, a new flower trough has been made at the main entrance, the field taps replaced etc, etc The list of jobs completed is really impressive, and all the of works have benefitted the site and it’s visitors. There is rarely an idle moment and we enlist help from Explorers where possible, and are keen to continue to do so. We’ve added new activities to our portfolio, with mini crossbows, tomahawk throwing and zorb football now all bookable.
Behind the scenes, things are already happening on our plans for 2023. We are in the financial position to be able to invest in the site, and have put together a budget for things we would like to do and see happen around the site. However, all will need time and additional people if we are to progress everything planned.
At the end of the season, weekend wardens Lee and Rachel are both standing down, but will stay on as activity instructors. Thank you both for the years of voluntary service you’ve given to the site.
Our biggest challenge for 2023 is the urgent need to recruit more people to become involved with the site. We’re fortunate to have a group of very dedicated supporters, but this number is reducing (and many of us are not getting any younger!). We can use whatever time people can give to us, be it with general maintenance, specific projects, activity instructors or just help looking after our campers. Could I ask you all to spread the word, sell the site and let us know of any interests, so we can follow up. The campsite can’t operate without volunteers.
Finally, to all those of you that have or continue to give your time and support to the campsite, a big thank you and I hope to see you all in the New Year, ready for the new season.
I hope you and your families have a great Christmas and New Year.
Phil