Madeleine Hinterhoeller

What’s your name? What years were you at camp, and in what capacity?

Madeleine Hinterhoeller, I gained the nickname of Madz during my time at Ouareau, a huge thanks to the amazing Gabz for the idea. Always a counsellor, never a camper, 2005-2009 staff

I was Head of Sailing, Assistant Head and Head of Waterfront and cool facts.

Tell us about some of your favourite memories

So many!!! However I think the most memorable one was when I got “blown” out of the motor boat.  While I was properly trained for sailing, I was still learning new tricks when it came to rescuing windsurfers.  The Windsurf sail suddenly got caught in a gust of wind (they call it Windy Waters for a reason!).  Next thing I know, I am no longer in the motor boat, lifejacket on OF COURSE but unable to get myself back in.  I slowly swam the motorboat to a neighbours dock, safely got back in and got back to camp. 

What were your favourite camp activities, days or programs?

I always loved the plays, especially performing in the staff play.  (Still waiting for my Tony Award for performing the role of Mrs. Potts in our performance of Beauty and the Beast).  I also loved singing taps, especially the harmonies! 

What did camp teach you? What did you learn at camp?

I learned how to start a campfire, leadership skills, how to paddle a kayak, how to solo a canoe (in calm waters), the importance of eating fruit and always having a water bottle, new French words like “cassonade”, and to always have a back-up plan. Though I think the most important thing I learned from camp was how to be hardcore and dedicated to my job.  To always be willing to learn something new and willing to be pushed outside of my own comfort zone. 

What are you up to now?

I am now a French elementary teacher in Mississauga.  I love to read, swim, sing, spend time with my dad on his sailboat, dance, challenge my mind with puzzles and video games. 

“I think the most important thing I learned from camp was how to be hardcore and dedicated to my job. To always be willing to learn something new and willing to be pushed outside of my own comfort zone. ”

Thanks to camp…..

I met one of my best friends:  Jenn. 

Why do you think camp is important?

I grew up in the 90s with a mom who worked (and still works) in important business roles (regarding finance) in Toronto and a stay at home dad.  I grew up believing that women are smart, strong, and deserve to be respected as equals.  I hope that Camp Ouareau will continue to teach young girls these values in many years to come.