International Student Update

Thursday 18 September 2025

ILC Excursion: Koorie Heritage Trust & City Food Tour

On Tuesday, 9th September, Ms. Podesser and our student teacher, Ms. B, took the ILC students on an exciting excursion to the Koorie Heritage Trust and Melbourne City. This trip helped students explore our current study topics: Aboriginal Australia and Food, while experiencing Melbourne’s cultural diversity.

 

Students began the day with a train ride into the city and a visit to the Koorie Heritage Trust, where they saw Aboriginal artworks, tools, and traditional objects. They then enjoyed Greek souvlaki and chips for lunch before walking through Chinatown and visiting the Chinese Museum to learn about Chinese migration to Australia. The day ended at the State Library of Victoria, where students admired its beautiful architecture and peaceful study spaces.

Here are some reflections from our students:

Jayden Lyu: "Yesterday, we went on an excursion with my classmates and teachers. First, we went to the Aboriginal Museum and saw exhibits made by Aboriginal people — that was interesting. Then, we ate Greek souvlaki and chips, which were delicious! After that, we went to Chinatown and took some photos. Next, we visited the Chinese Museum and learned about the Chinese who came to Australia and what they did. Last, we visited the State Library. It was large and quiet, and it made me feel happy and excited. What a wonderful day!"

Ziv Qin: "We got to the city by train and went to the Aboriginal Museum, where we saw many Aboriginal things. The museum was small but nice. Then, we had lunch and went to Chinatown, but we didn’t have food there. After that, we visited the Chinese Museum. There were some dungeons and lots of beautiful Chinese cultural relics — it was even more beautiful than other museums! Finally, we went to Melbourne Library. It was very big and beautiful. We enjoyed a very nice day!"

Jiahong Lin: "Last week, we went to the city. First, we took the train to the city. Then, we went to the Aboriginal Museum to see the things that Aboriginal people used in their daily lives, like bamboo-woven baskets for catching fish and brushes for gathering food. After that, we had Greek food, and then we went to Chinatown and the Chinese Museum to learn about the history of Chinese people immigrating to Australia. Later, we bought milk tea — I like mine with less sugar, less ice, and lots of milk, so it tastes better! Finally, we went to the Victoria Library, where we saw many people studying and felt a strong academic atmosphere. It was a great day!"

Max Xing: "Last Tuesday morning, my classmates and I went to the city by train. The train ride was smooth and the view from the window was beautiful. First, we visited the Aboriginal Museum. We saw traditional tools, paintings, and listened to stories about Aboriginal culture. Then we went to a Greek restaurant, where we ate chips and Greek souvlaki. The food was delicious. After that, we went to Chinatown and bought milk tea. The streets were busy and colourful. Next, we visited a Chinese museum. There were ancient coins, silk clothes, and dragon sculptures. I learned a lot about Chinese history. At the end, we went to the State Library. The library was big and quiet. I saw many books and people reading silently. I was very happy. It was a fun and interesting day."

Stella Dou: "Yesterday, we went to the city together. First, we went to the Aboriginal Museum. There were many Aboriginal traditional things there. We even touched the weapons and tools, which were made from wood. I also saw many artworks. Then, we went to the Greek restaurant and ate chips and souvlaki. I could smell the delicious food and taste the tasty meat. After that, we walked to Chinatown. Next, we visited the Chinese Museum and learned about how Chinese ancestors immigrated here. I felt very interested. Later, we went to the State Library. There were many artworks there, too. Finally, we went home. I will always remember the food!"

 

This excursion was a wonderful opportunity for hands-on learning, where students connected with Aboriginal culture, explored Chinese heritage, and experienced Melbourne’s rich food and history.

 

Term 3 Break is coming!

This Friday, 19th September, will be the last day of Term 3. Students will finish school early at 1:30 pm and then enjoy a two-week holiday.

 

Some students will return to their home countries, while others will stay in Melbourne, and some will be joined by their parents visiting Melbourne.

 

We hope everyone has a wonderful , relaxing, and safe holiday, and we look forward to seeing all students return refreshed and full of energy for Term 4!

 

Charmaine Ji

Acting International Student Coordinator