Synergy

RUOK? Day

On Thursday September 11th and Friday September 12th, both the Overnewton Middle School and Senior School celebrated RUOK? Day. To raise funds for the RUOK? Day organisation, the SRC from both schools coordinated a casual clothes days and sausage sizzles and as a result, a total of $1870.49 was raised in support of mental health and suicide prevention. Awareness of the topics of RUOK? Day was further generated via Pastoral Care lessons and a video created by our Community Engagement Team. What a great effort from the Overnewton SRC and community!

Galiwin’ku Reflections: Culture, Connection & Coastal Adventures

Greetings from Elcho Island, Over the past few days, our group has had the extraordinary privilege of immersing ourselves in the vibrant life, culture, and community of Galiwin’ku; and what an unforgettable journey it’s been.

From the moment we touched down, we were welcomed with open arms by the students and staff of Shepherdson College. Their generosity and hospitality set the tone for a week full of deep intercultural learning and genuine connection. Whether exploring rock pools for oysters with new friends, sitting shoulder-to-shoulder in class, or laughing together around a beach bonfire, our students have embraced every opportunity with open hearts and open minds.

One of the most profound moments came early on, during a traditional smoking ceremony, a powerful invitation to let go of stress and embrace learning, community, and self-growth. This spirit carried us through an incredible few days: being adopted into Yolŋu clans, sharing stories under the stars, fishing (with varying success), and getting muddy in mangroves while learning how to track animals like local experts.

Classroom life here blends Yolŋu and Western ways of learning. Our students got hands-on with everything from Yolŋu Matha language sessions and pandanus weaving, to arts and crafts, PE, and preparing cupcakes for the community fete (Talia’s sold out in record time). And speaking of the fete, the whole island came alive with live music, food stalls, and laughter. Our students ran the Op Shop, please read Rev. Peter’s post for more on the op shop.

At night, we’ve shared meals, movie nights (equal parts insightful and hilariously weird), and the now-famous Toad Buster Challenge , shoutout to Team B’s mammoth 30-catch haul.

Every evening ends with a “Rose Reflection”, where students share their highlights, discomforts, and growth. Common themes were Friendship across cultures, the joy of disconnecting from phones, and the beauty of learning from the land and its people.

We’re so proud of these young people. They’ve shown courage, kindness, and curiosity in every situation. From dancing on beaches to sorting secondhand clothes, from learning new languages to lending helping hands, they’ve truly leaned into the spirit of this experience.

There’s so much more to share, and we know these stories will continue to grow in the telling once we’re home. For now, we’ll leave you with this: we came to Galiwin’ku as visitors, but we leave with family, memories, and a deeper understanding of the world and our place in it.