Chelsea returns from Cambodia with a $2100 goal

Returning just recently from the humanitarian trip, the Year 11 student said she hoped everyone would have the opportunity to experience what she did.

“Whilst over there, we went to a lot of schools and one thing we really noticed was that the schools were quite overcrowded; there were about 700 kids to one school,” she said.

“We also noticed there was a lack of clean water, they were sharing one water well between at least 10 families.

“That was a huge thing I felt quite close to — seeing these kids grow up without the basic things that we are handed and expect.”

Chelsea’s return felt like somewhat of a rude awakening.

“Coming back home was definitely a shock,” she said.

“I think, in Australia, we’re very sheltered from what the real world really can be for some people.

“Going over there, really, really, really opened my eyes to what we aren’t grateful for, and what we really should be. We have education handed to us on a silver platter and we complain that we hate school, when all these kids want to do is go to school.”

With her humanitarian trip having left a mark, Chelsea is doing what she can to offer aid to the Cambodian community she volunteered in.

Chelsea has organised a barefoot bowls fundraiser night at the Barooga Bowls Club to be held on Monday, November 3.

The student has her sights set on a goal of $2100 to build three water wells in the community, with each well costing about $700.

Chelsea said she had already received donations to the cause, but was really hoping that the fundraising night would attract a large turnout.

“A lot of local businesses have donated, which is amazing. I’ve also put up a lot flyers at their shops,” she said.

“The entire community is honestly being great. We’ve definitely got a good community here.”

The event will run from 5.30m to 8.30pm, with entry at a cost of $10 per bowler.

Aside from participating in the event and donating, Chelsea said she wanted to inspire others to go on the trip as well.

“It was definitely upsetting but I think it’s something everyone needs to experience,” she said.

“Coming back has just changed my perspective on school so much; it’s no longer something I think I deserve, it’s an amazing opportunity that we are given, and we don’t see that.”

For more information on the event, contact Chelsea outside school hours on 0490 371 766.