From the Boarding Captain

I am sitting and writing this article in disbelief that my time here is coming to an end. These past six years in Boarding have been some of the best memories of my life. From beginning the journey in Year Seven, where everyone was scared, nervous and unsure, to graduating and about to enter the big world. Looking back, I have realised how much these years have shaped me into who I am today. There have been many dress ups, loud music parties, sleepovers, movie nights, sport games and water fights that have all contributed to making this place so special.

Boarding has been so much more than just a place to sleep and study; it’s been a home, a community, and a family away from family. I never imagined that the people I shared rooms with and lived so closely alongside would become the ones I’d make my best memories with. It is these people that have made my time here so enjoyable.

Boarding has truly been an experience of a lifetime. As we, the Year Twelve boarders, enter our final weeks of school and boarding, it feels like the perfect time to pause, enjoy each moment, and reflect on the journey we’ve shared together. Not only reflecting on our peers who have been alongside of us for this journey, but the supervisors and house parents that have supported us along the way. They have always been there, no matter what, they are always checking in, getting involved in games and always sharing advice in the moments we needed it most. I would like to say thank you so much for everything you have done, it has really meant a lot to all of us. I also want to say a big thanks to Mr Sarre, Mrs Mackenzie and Liz who I have worked alongside with and who have supported me every step of the way.

Last Thursday, we celebrated our annual Year Twelve Boarding Farewell Dinner a special tradition that marks the end of an era for us. This year, there are seven of us in Year Twelve, and the evening was nothing short of memorable. The Year Elevens, along with Liz, Mrs Franzinelli, and the amazing kitchen team, went above and beyond to make the night truly special. Breaksea was beautifully decorated, complete with mocktails and a delicious menu that everyone thoroughly enjoyed.

Everyone looked incredible, dressed in their best outfits, ready to celebrate. The night was filled with laughter, stories, and plenty of photos to capture the memories of our past six years. One of the highlights of the evening was a Kahoot game with fun questions all about the Year Twelves a perfect way to reminisce and share a few laughs. And yes, I am very proud to say that I came away with the win!

The farewell dinner reminded us just how lucky we have been to experience boarding together. From the friendships we formed to the challenges we faced, from late-night chats to shared moments of laughter, every experience has shaped who we are today. Memorable events like MasterChef, Quiz Nights, and relaxed Sunday Sessions have brought us together, creating countless moments of joy and connection. The farewell dinner was the perfect way to begin saying goodbye to a place that has truly been our home away from home.

On Friday at lunchtime, due to the postponement of the Kingfisher Fair, we held a fundraiser, selling rocky road and lolly bags. Through your support, we successfully raised over $600 for The Darcy Effect, which will fund resources for improved healthcare in regional communities and provides vital first aid education. I want to thank you for everyone who bought a rocky road or lolly bag and contributed to this meaningful cause.

I want to say a huge congratulations to Zane Cairns and Matilda Norrish for being appointed Boarding Captains for next year. I also want to congratulate Esther Barrett-Lennard and Lucas Smart for being appointed to leadership roles. I know you guys will do amazing!

I know next term there will be a few more tears at graduation but I want to wish everyone all the best in your future endeavours, whatever they may be and cannot wait to catch up with you all again soon. I hope you all have a lovely holidays and hopefully some warm weather arrives soon.

Chloe Climie | Boarding Captain

Year Twelve Reflections

When I was about 11 years old, I was driving in the car with my mum, and she was making me listen to Malory Towers by Enid Blyton. I remember saying to myself “I will never go to a boarding school”. Fast forward to when I was thirteen, and I made the best decision of my life and decided to become a boarder at Great Southern Grammar. I have met so many wonderful people and created many warm memories that I will remember for many years to come. I want to thank everyone in the boarding community, all the wonderful people in my boarding house who have welcomed me with open arms, and all the incredible boarding staff, cleaners, maintenance workers, cooks and kitchen staff, nurses and event/rec coordinators and of course my lovely supervisors. You have all made this house feel more like a home.

Sophie Harris | Year Twelve