Forward January 2021 | Page 5

AROUND THE SCHOOL

Co-educational Boarding House update

Topping out

“ We shape our buildings , thereafter they shape us ” – Sir Winston Churchill
On Monday , 27 July 2020 , the Principal , Anne Dunstan hosted a topping out ceremony of the new co-educational Boarding House , attended by representatives from WITH Architecture Studio , FIRM Construction , Fellows of Council , Captain of Boarding , Mackenzie Hall and Mr Matt Weston , Head of Boarding . The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the progress of our Boarding School development .
Following an Acknowledgement of Country by Year 7 boarding student , Vivicka Jackamarra ( 7Wb ), we commenced what is a longstanding and traditional act of ‘ topping out ’. The history of topping out ceremonies goes back centuries and spans many cultures . From warding off evil spirits , to honouring those who have worked on the building ; appeasing tree dwelling spirits whose natural environment may have been disrupted , or simply marking the moment that the major framework is complete .
For us , the ceremony served as a moment of celebration and thanks . It was also an opportunity to bless the site , the facility and all who are connected with it , who work on it and who will live in it . Father Philip Raymont provided a prayer and a most inclusive blessing , ensuring all present and the building were sprinkled generously with holy water .
Our new state-of-the-art co-educational Boarding House will accommodate 132 boarders with boys and girls , sisters and brothers , living under one roof as they would in their family homes . It will be light , bright and contemporary , embracing the stunning location we are privileged to have on the banks of the Swan River .
Our home away from home for our boarding community will provide an environment that focuses on student wellbeing and promotes a strong sense of belonging for all .
The precinct is due for completion in Term 1 , 2021 with the construction team working on site seven days a week . 2021 will mark an incredibly exciting new chapter for our boarding community and we look forward to residing in our new home as soon as possible .
Current progress , January 2021 .
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