Danelle Sheehan is a young GirlGuide who wanted to go on a camp to stay overnight at Mt Aspiring hut on November 30, but it was her Gran’s 75th birthday December 1. Danelle’s Mum spoke to her mum, Heather Churchill about it, and Heather decided she would love to go for a hike for her birthday. So all three showed up on a beautiful, fine, sunny Saturday, and along with 15 other GirlGuides and 12 Leaders and parents, walked into Mt Aspiring hut.

Heather was not the last to arrive! Once at the hut the adults regrouped for a chat and a hot cuppa, while the girls ran around playing. We had a lovely dinner, and sang campfire songs before bed, including singing “Happy Birthday” to three of the group who have birthdays in January and never get to hear it sung to them. Danelle, Sara and Heather never said a word.

At breakfast time, Sara bought out the “Happy Birthday” banner and Danelle had a cupcake with candles, and we all got to sing again for Heather. That was the last time most of the girls smiled as we hiked out in the wind and rain — weather forecast said that wouldn’t start until lunchtime! But as we are GirlGuides, we were prepared, and everyone had dry clothes to change into at the shelter at Raspberry Flat, before driving home with the car heaters roaring. 

For some of the girls, this was their first ever hike, and they were amazing. It took us three and a half hours to walk in, and only three hours to walk out. For everyone involved, I think it’s a hike that will stay in our memories for a long time. A great adventure, great scenery, and great company. Heather is such an awesome role model for our young girls, who GirlGuiding wants to inspire to believe that they can do anything, no matter their gender or age. Heather is also an inspiration to the mums and leaders on the hike, as she has an amazing life story which she was happy to share. 

Wānaka GirlGuides needs more leaders so we can continue to offer opportunities like this to our community. It’s great fun. Our thanks to DoC and the NZ Alpine Club for such a great facility.