SPECTACULAR DIVES AND MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES
YEAR 10 BOYS ’ CAIRNS SCUBA TRIP
As part of the Year 10 Outdoor Activities Program , the annual Scuba Trip to Cairns in September was undertaken and embraced by a hearty band of Year 10 Scotch boys , who had completed all their theory and pool skills development at Scotch , and were on a referral course to complete their Open Water Diving Course .
The Professional Association of Diving Instructors ( PADI ) open water diving course requires about 18 hours of theory study and examination , a medical , and underwater skill development – not an easy task and a demanding service .
The boys enjoyed 10 dives off the Great Barrier Reef and completed their Open Water PADI Licence – so they are now licensed to dive anywhere in the world up to 18m . The dives were spectacular and the experience was memorable . Staff accompanying the journey were Mr Riley ( Teacher-in-Charge ), Mr Jonas and Mr Braidwood .
PETER RILEY – TEACHER-IN-CHARGE , OAP SCUBA TRIP
WHISTLER-BLACKCOMB – A CHALLENGING TWO-MOUNTAIN
RESORT A GREAT EXPERIENCE FOR 23 BOYS
Twenty-three boys and four teachers woke up early for a 3am bus ride to Melbourne Airport on Easter Sunday . After the long plane flight to Canada , the boys and teachers enjoyed the endless terrain Whistler-Blackcomb had to offer – a spectacular twomountain resort with a gondolier traversing the mountains .
The boys were divided into small groups and experienced the mountain together , trying new challenges and supporting their friends . At the end of each day , we shared our memories with the other boys and teachers over dinner at various Whistler restaurants .
We all faced different challenges on the trip . For some boys , it was their second time on skis , while others tested their bravery on some of the double black diamond runs . We enjoyed bonding together through ziplining and touring around Vancouver . This included walking along one of the world ’ s longest and highest pedestrian suspension bridges .
Overall I had a great time , and the rest of the boys would agree that it was an unforgettable experience . I would like to thank Mr Riley , Ms Scarff , Mr Woodlock and Mr Evans for this unique experience , which would not have been possible without their commitment and support .
LUKE BODLE – YEAR 9 www . scotch . vic . edu . au Great Scot 17