Will Hansen talks to Jack T. Denton about camping at Vinegar Hill.
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Jack explains that their connection to Vinegar Hill began almost at birth, with their first visit as a newborn brought along by their mother. With the exception of only a handful of years, they have attended the camp almost every summer since, meaning Vinegar Hill has been a constant presence throughout their life. Now aged 21, Jack reflects on how formative those repeated visits have been, shaping their memories, friendships, and understanding of community. Vinegar Hill is not described as a once-off holiday destination, but as a recurring social space that evolves alongside the people who return year after year.
One of Jack’s earliest and fondest memories involves a dress-up event themed around nature. Improvising with whatever materials were available, they created a costume using green leaves taped to cloth and cardboard, ultimately deciding to dress as a kākāpō. The event involved parading near the stage area and around a central bonfire, a vivid image that highlights the playful, communal atmosphere of Vinegar Hill traditions. Winning first place added to the joy of the memory, but what stands out more strongly is the creativity, participation, and encouragement embedded in the event itself. These moments illustrate how Vinegar Hill provides space for self-expression, humour, and collective celebration across generations.
Jack attends the camp each year with their mother, who is lesbian, while Jack describes themself as straight and an LGBTQ+ supporter. This family dynamic highlights Vinegar Hill as a space not only for queer people themselves, but also for their families, allies, and children. Jack speaks positively about being part of a queer environment, emphasising how welcoming and supportive it feels. Simple gestures such as people greeting each other throughout the day, checking in on one another, and sharing humour are described as defining features of camp life. The sense of mutual care and friendliness appears to be one of the strongest impressions Jack has carried with them over the years.
The conversation also touches on the practical evolution of camping life. Jack recounts moving from a leaky old tent, to a low tent that required constant crouching and still left them sleeping on damp ground, to finally upgrading to a rooftop tent with a proper mattress. This progression is framed light-heartedly but reflects how long-term campers adapt and invest in their comfort as Vinegar Hill remains a regular fixture in their lives.
Jack notes that many familiar faces return to Vinegar Hill each year. While names are sometimes hard to recall, the continuity of people such as long-time campers, kitchen volunteers, and neighbours reinforces the idea of Vinegar Hill as an extended chosen family. Recognition is based as much on presence and shared experience as on formal roles, underscoring the informal but enduring social networks that define the camp.
Part of the interview focuses on Vinegar Hill traditions, particularly the Queen of the Hill. Jack recalls the excitement of the Queen riding down on a trailer, accompanied by members of different campsites, with calls of “hail to the queen” or “hail to the king” echoing through the grounds. Children running alongside the procession add to the sense of festivity and continuity. While Jack does not claim detailed knowledge of how the Queen is selected, they emphasise that the process is thoughtful and grounded in choosing the right person for the right reasons. Former queens and kings supporting new title-holders reflects a mentoring culture and respect for tradition that goes beyond parody or spectacle.
When asked about daily activities, Jack describes a relaxed pace: spending time by the river, stacking stones, walking around the camp, and chatting with others. These quiet moments sit alongside organised events, all of which Jack says they have attended during the current camp. Particular enthusiasm is expressed for a murder mystery event, where Jack dressed as a knight with a sword, helmet, and cape. Joining a clever team called the Alphabet Mafia, Jack recounts their enjoyment of the challenge and pride in contributing to the team’s success.
In closing, Jack speaks warmly about individuals who embody the spirit of Vinegar Hill, singling out Shorty as someone particularly influential. Described as jolly, supportive, and generous with their time, Shorty is described as someone who informally mentors younger attendees, reinforcing bonds of care and belonging. This final reflection encapsulates the broader themes of the recording: Vinegar Hill as a place of tradition, creativity, support, and continuity, where queer culture, family, and community are lived experiences passed from one generation to the next.
This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.
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