Somerset students talk leadership by the beach

Published on 19 January 2026

HIGH school students have put their leadership skills to the test at the annual Somerset Youth Leaders’ Camp.

The camp, funded and organised by Somerset Regional Council, was held at the Gold Coast Recreation Precinct in Tallebudgera from Wednesday to Friday, 14-16 January.

A total of 31 youth leaders from Somerset’s three high schools in Kilcoy, Lowood and Toogoolawah attended the camp, alongside Council staff and Fernvale PCYC Acting Youth Club Program Manager Sergeant Scott Martin.

Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt and Councillors Tiara Hurley and Stephanie Laycock attended the camp on Thursday, 15 January to speak to the students about what it meant to be a leader in local government.

“This year, the Somerset Youth Leaders’ Camp’s theme is ‘Leading with Purpose – Building Resilient Communities’, which really is the bread and butter of local government,” Cr Wendt said.

“The students spoke with such passion about their schools, their region, and their aspirations as future leaders.”

Toogoolawah State High School year 12 School Captain Lily Eggleston said it was good to be among her peers from across the Somerset region.

“I enjoyed connecting with the other leaders from Lowood and Kilcoy, talking to them, seeing what they enjoy,” Lily said.

“We learned about how you can’t walk when you’re blindfolded, and how having a goal will keep you on the right track… it’s good to have all your senses to help you achieve your goal.”

The students enjoyed a variety of activities including indigenous orienteering, catapulting, canoeing, team challenges, beach games, bungie jumping and abseiling.

Students said the abseiling activity was the scariest but also the most rewarding experience of the camp.

Kilcoy State High School year 12 House Captain Patrick Gabejan said he overcame his fears with thanks to his peers.

“I really didn't feel like going up there for abseiling… but after some words of encouragement it gets a lot easier,” Patrick said.

“Make sure you do everything with a friend - everything becomes a lot easier with friends.”

Lowood State High School year 11 student and Student Representative Council member Desta Kaye said the camp taught her the value of making yourself uncomfortable.

“It’s important to face your fears… you'll be stuck in the same box your entire life if you don't push your own boundaries.,” Desta said.

“I’m not saying go swimming with the sharks, but to do one thing you’re afraid of every day, I think it’s a pretty good way to live.”