FEATURES
SNOWSPORTS BEGINNERS ’ SKI CAMP 2023 – A RESOUNDING SUCCESS
It ’ s quite a magical moment when a student tells you it ’ s the first time they ’ ve seen the snow and you are witness to a group of Scotchies making a snowman and throwing snowballs at each other . We shouldn ’ t take for granted the beauty of such experiences in our students ’ journey .
From Friday 18 to Monday 21 August , 50 Years 7 and 8 students , accompanied by five members of staff made their way to Falls Creek , which turned out to be the perfect location for novice skiers , since it offers a multitude of easy slopes to build up the initial confidence required to develop into a comfortable skier . Our boys benefited from lessons on all three mornings before practising their skills on designated slopes for the rest of the day .
Breakfasts and dinners were served at the YMCA Howmans Gap Discovery Camp , where we were lodged for the duration of the stay . Students could also enjoy a playroom with pool tables and board games or unwind in the company of their friends . Fortunately it had freshly snowed the day before we arrived . Falls Creek was a resounding success and a resort we will be looking to return to in the future . Thanks go to the accompanying staff : Ms Stalker , Mrs Rafferty , Mr Wiseman , Mr Evans , Mr Millar and Mr Taylor ( Teacher-in-Charge ); and a very special thank you also extends to Ms Cuming on the administration front .
CHRISTOPHE TAYLOR – TEACHER-IN-CHARGE , SNOWSPORTS BEGINNERS ’ SKI CAMP
THE ADVENTURERS PROGRAM
INDONESIAN MARTIAL ARTS TO ULTIMATE FRISBEE , FENCING AND MORE
The Adventurers Program is a dynamic and exciting service that introduces and further develops interests for Year 9 boys across a diverse array of activities and sports . Boys are encouraged to explore and engage in a wide range of pursuits , as well as forming new friendships through common interests . Adventurers has something for everyone .
This year ’ s program kicked off in Term 1 with a busy start . Boys were divided into two groups , with group one delving into the fascinating world of Indonesian martial arts , known as Pencak Silat . Meanwhile , group two enthusiastically immersed themselves in the skilful practice of fencing . Thankfully no boys were injured in either sport , with both returning in Term 3 to allow everyone an opportunity to try both activities .
Term 2 of Adventurers saw the introduction of two new activities – ultimate frisbee and yoga . Yoga encouraged and taught boys to improve their flexibility , posture and develop mindfulness practices . In contrast , the fast pace of ultimate frisbee sharpened everyone ’ s physical dexterity and provided much competition among teams .
In addition to rotating through activities not completed earlier in the year , Term 3 provided an opportunity to prepare for the culmination of our Adventurers Program – the much-anticipated camp . At the end of term , all boys headed to Elliott Lodge in Healesville to participate in activities organised by the Melbourne Adventure Hub .
Central to camp were three main activities – whitewater kayaking at Wonga Park , mountain biking around Silvan Reservoir and caving at Yarra Junction . Amid the rugged wilderness , participants formed lasting bonds while embracing the challenges and natural wonders that made this camp an unforgettable adventure .
Special thanks go to all those who supported the program this year , including Mr Kerins , Mr Stapelberg and Dr Grigorious .
CHARLES JEFFERSON – YEAR 9
16 Great Scot