Rondo Supports Lord Somers Camp's Biggest Big Build Ever
Rondo has proudly supported one of the most ambitious community projects in Lord Somers Camp’s long history, the largest Big Build ever constructed at Big Camp.
Founded in 1929, Lord Somers Camp and Power House has been delivering life-changing experiences for young people for nearly a century. Each January, the camp hosts Big Camp, bringing together 100 young men and women aged 16–18, supported by more than 180 volunteers.
One of Big Camp’s most iconic traditions is the Big Build, a secret overnight construction project led by a volunteer crew known as the Slushies. While participants sleep, the team works through the night to build a large-scale structure that becomes the centrepiece of the camp experience.
For Big Camp 2026, the Slushies set their sights on their most ambitious project yet, an Egyptian-themed pyramid large enough to host all 280 members of camp inside for breakfast.
To help bring the vision to life, Rondo supplied 1,600 metres of 92mm steel stud, chosen for its strength, light weight, and speed of installation, critical for a build completed entirely overnight by volunteers.
“For many years we have loved using Rondo steel stud in many different ways. It is light, strong, versatile, and quick and easy to work with. Most of what we do is temporary in nature and needs to be constructed quickly. I love that we use Rondo steel stud in creative ways that are outside the norm.”
Andre Sardone, Big Build Lead
Construction began late in the evening, with the team adapting the design as the night progressed. By 6am, the volunteers had completed a 16m x 16m pyramid, standing 10 metres high, complete with a 40-metre tunnel entrance.
When camp members woke, they walked through the pyramid expecting an Egyptian-themed breakfast, only to find themselves inside a Las Vegas-style theatre experience featuring live performances, music, and entertainment.
Following the event, the structure was fully dismantled, with the steel stud returned to full lengths and ready to be reused for future Big Builds in years to come.
“This project will go down as the biggest and best Big Build in our history,” said Andre. “It simply wouldn’t have been possible without the support from Rondo.”
Rondo is proud to support community initiatives that use construction materials in creative, meaningful ways, helping to build not just structures, but unforgettable experiences.