Bo - the gentle black and white border collie who brought joy, comfort and companionship to students at Chum Creek camps from 2012 to 2015, passed away in December last year, but his memory lives on.
Bo wasn’t just a dog; he was part of the Wesley Chum Creek family. Calm and affectionate, Bo helped make camp feel a little more like home. Whether students were heading out for bushwalks or playing outdoor games, Bo was happy to tag along. His favourite pastime was fetch. With so many students eager to take turns throwing the tennis ball for him, Bo was always excited to join in on every camp.
Bo also had a special gift for sensing when someone needed comfort. He loved a pat and tummy rub, so would often sit quietly beside a student, his head resting gently on their knee.
His calm demeanour helped ease nerves and settle homesick hearts and he gave countless students the simple, but powerful, gift of feeling loved.
In his old age, he was spotted by an OW walking the streets near our Glen Waverley Campus. His steps were slower, but his presence unmistakable. This former student, now a young adult, recognised him and came up to say hello. After a quiet moment of greeting and pats, she exclaimed, ‘Bo made such a difference to my camp experience!’
While he retired from camp life in 2015, Bo’s legacy remains. His pawprints are etched not only in the dirt tracks of the campsite, but also in the memories of many students and teachers who shared those special moments with him.
Rest in peace, Bo. You were truly one of a kind!
