Article written by T.Marsh
Last weekend saw the return of the annual Woodsmoke Camp! This is the only camp on the club calendar that does not involve any paddling. The purpose of the camp is to give members the opportunity to practice camp craft and learn new skills, before putting them to use along any paddling journeys later in the year. With a variety of tents, hammocks and tarps, camp was successfully pitched on Friday evening. A welcoming fire was lit and the world was put to rights.
The Saturday saw the Brew Making Challenge take place. This is a fun event where participants boil enough water for a mug of tea over a fire, after building and lighting their own fire. The winner managed this in less than five minutes, with second and third “hotly” contested. The rest of the day was spent practicing knife and axe working, making simple breads and being hoisted into a tree as rescue skills were refreshed without any danger of falling in a river. The day ended with a delicious Jacob’s join and a spectacular thunderstorm.
Sunday was a little wetter but spirits weren’t dampened. Sunday was Bake-Off Day! This deliciously fun competition sees entrants cook a dish over a fire without the use of pots and pans. Dishes are judged on flavour, flair and presentation. Orange stuffed Sweet Potatoes, Beetroot cake cooked in a beetroot, donuts, marshmallow bannock balls, and stuffed aubergine followed by apple crumble were amongst the treats prepared.
Judging was difficult as it was such a close run competition. In the end a sausage casserole cooked in a foil parcel took the title and the freshly carved spoon trophy. What was remarkable was just how much people’s skill and confidence in cooking over embers has improved since the first Woodsmoke.
Bellies full it was time for home and much needed showers, although the smell and memories of a great weekend linger on.
