Year 11 Northern Territory Experience

Connecting Together

Our Year 11 students, accompanied by 10 dedicated staff members, embarked on an unforgettable Northern Territory Residential Experience, exploring some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks and engaging in unique cultural activities.

The journey began with a visit to Ayers Rock (Uluru), where students marvelled at the majestic monolith and learned about its significance to the local Anangu people. As night fell, the Field of Light installation transformed the desert into a mesmerising sea of glowing orbs, creating a magical atmosphere that left everyone in awe.

The Karrke Cultural Experience provided a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture, with hands-on activities and storytelling sessions that enriched our students' appreciation for the region’s rich heritage. At Kings Canyon, the Rim Walk challenged everyone with its steep climbs and breathtaking views, fostering a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie among the group.

A thrilling Reptile Show introduced us to the diverse wildlife of the area, while a visit to Anzac Hill offered a poignant moment of reflection on Australia’s military history. The Royal Flying Doctor Service showcased the critical healthcare support provided to remote communities, and the School of the Air tour highlighted the innovative ways education reaches the Outback.

Throughout the trip, students and staff camped in stand-up tents, enjoying delicious meals prepared on-site. Evenings were spent around the campfire, roasting marshmallows, and engaging in card and board games, strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories.

This residential experience was more than just a school trip; it was an opportunity for students to connect with each other, immerse themselves in Australia’s natural beauty and cultural history, and develop a deeper appreciation for the unique landscapes and communities of the Northern Territory.

Ms Sarah Rossiter

Year 11 Coordinator

The trip to the Northern Territory was an unforgettable experience! Waking up at 5 am and going to bed at 10 pm every day after long, physical activities was a huge challenge for me, especially the 6 km hike at Kings Canyon. However, embracing this hike with friends, having conversations, and stopping to take heaps of photos made me forget about the pain and tiredness, allowing me to appreciate the nature and wildlife around me. Another highlight for me was the Reptile Centre in Alice Springs, where we got to hold a blue-tongue lizard and snakes, the camel rides, and the walk around the base of Uluru. It was fascinating to learn about Aboriginal culture and the daily lives of those who live in remote areas of Australia, such as through the School of the Air. This trip was a great getaway from our devices and an opportunity to connect with nature.

Rhiannon P

Year 11

Northern Territory camp was an incredible experience where we bonded with friends, enjoyed beautiful scenery, and learned about Aboriginal traditions. One of the highlights was hiking in King’s Canyon, taking in the stunning sights while talking and learning more about each other. Personally, I was fascinated by how the Aboriginal people have persevered in such a harsh desert land and impressed by how organizations like the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the School of the Air provide medical care and education to remote communities. Ultimately, Northern Territory camp was a great opportunity to grow closer as a year level and have a fun time together before we all inevitably buckle down for our first 3/4 exams.

Liam J

Year 11

Our cohort has been so lucky, having been to Mount Buller for ski camp, K'gari in Year 10, and now the Northern Territory in Year 11. Personally, I feel really fortunate for these opportunities. My favourite moment was the 3-hour hike around the rim of Kings Canyon. The first part of the hike was incredibly steep, and we were all extremely tired afterward, but the view was unforgettable and made all the effort worthwhile. We also got to visit Uluru and learn about its cultural significance to the Indigenous people. I particularly admired how proud and passionate they are in sharing their culture with us. Northern Territory was definitely the best camp I've been on; even the long bus rides crocheting with my friends felt shorter. Despite being physically demanding and requiring adjustment to the extreme weather, it was really enjoyable, especially with the people around me.

Jiya A

Year 11

Camp this year was an amazing experience all around. My highlights included witnessing the sunset over Uluru, travelling through the Field of Lights, hiking through Kings Canyon, and learning about Aboriginal culture. Through all these activities, we gained a deeper understanding of the land we walked on and built stronger connections with both ourselves and the environment. In addition to these incredible experiences, the best connections we made were with each other, especially during our downtime. We had a blast playing NFL, tag, and ruthless games of Uno. We grew stronger as a year level and got to know our teachers much better. Overall, this camp provided us with a holistic experience of both fun and knowledge.

Tharul P

Year 11