Cork youngsters brave wilds of Arctic Circle

Caroline O’Neill, 10, and her 12-year-old cousins, Cuan and Donagh, learn to survive in some of the most inhospitable terrain in the world in Bush Kids: Arctic Adventure Special.
We follow their journey in the six-part series, which runs daily starting on RTÉ2 at 10am on St Stephen’s Day, and running to New Year’s Eve.
The trio will be under the guidance of bushcraft expert, and survivalist Tom Bán, in this extended special series of his popular Bush Kids children’s TV show.
They are accompanied by their dad and uncle Eoin on a journey like no other, and their grit and determination are put to the test as they venture into the wilds of the Arctic Circle, where they camp out and learn vital survival skills in one of the planet’s most challenging environments.
Under Bán’s expert guidance, they face the challenge of surviving in sub-zero temperatures and navigating through the vast, snow-covered landscape.
Throughout their adventure, they learn to build shelters to withstand the freezing temperatures, cook meals over a fire on a frozen lake, and ice fish for their dinner.
The family also has the unique opportunity to meet and learn from the native people, gaining insights into their rich traditions and the survival techniques required to thrive in the wild Arctic.
Under Tom Bán’s mentorship, the cousins discover the true meaning of teamwork and resilience, and about the profound connection between humans and nature.
The series promises to not only entertain but educate viewers on the importance of survival skills and the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Sami People.
In the first episode on St Stephen’s Day, Cuan, Caroline, and Donagh begin preparations for their trip, and get to grips with the essential skills to survive the harsh, freezing climate.
In episode two, they arrive at their first location, a traditional Finnish log cabin which will be their base for the next few days. But there’s no time to rest as they need to prepare and cook their first meal, a tasty reindeer stew.
The next morning, they set off on an adventure, skiing across a frozen lake. Staying on their feet proves to be a much tougher challenge in the snow than they expected.
In the third episode, Tom Bán has a special treat in store for the adventurous Bush Kids. They visit a traditional reindeer farm, where Arctic native Larz, the reindeer farmer, teaches them about local customs and traditions.
Using old reindeer antlers, the Cork children craft pendants as mementos of their epic adventure.
Finding food in the Arctic Circle is no easy task, as the children discover in the next episode. Before they can enjoy dinner, they first have to catch it, relying on traditional ice fishing techniques.
Using hidden cameras, they also get a rare opportunity to observe the diverse wildlife of the Arctic.
In episode five, the journey continues as they travel to the border of Finland and Sweden. From there, they journey up one of the Arctic’s magical hills, where they camp overnight in freezing conditions.
In the sixth and final episode, before their adventure ends, the children must first climb to the top of a snowy mountain.
From there, they’ll take in the breathtaking views of the Arctic landscape.
Before reaching the summit, however, they prepare a delicious meal over an outdoor fire.