Round Square International Conference
Sophia Goodman, Ella Schwer, Tiki Willcocks and Matilda Bhattarai were wonderful representatives of SPC at the Round Square International Conference in Sydney over the September school holidays.
They involved themselves in everything, made the most of every opportunity, ate lovely food and each made many new friends from all around the world. Whether it be performing the Nutbush on the Sydney Opera House stairs, completing acts of service and helping out the environment, performing in impromptu talent shows and seizing every opportunity, they have done it all and made SPC very proud. Their reflections are here below and we were so honored to spend a week with them during this time.
Here is what they have to say…
Ms Hutchy and Mr Rowse
The 2026 Round Square Conference was an incredible experience. The trip consisted of five days of productive discussion and activities that incorporated some of the Round Square Ideals: Internationalism when we were free to hang out with people from all around the world during lunch breaks and Environmentalism and Service when we planted trees as part of turning the old Hornsby Quarry into a National Park and sorted through literal tonnes of secondhand clothes for Anglicare.
The best event in my opinion was different schools' cultural performances. We got to see everything from traditional Armenian dancing to a talented Elvis impersonation from Tennessee!
But the scheduled events were only one part of what made the conference so special, the other was the people. The Barker College staff and students were lovely and hospitable, and the delegates were enthusiastic and willing to chat (the whole "have you tried vegemite yet" thing was a great conversation starter!).
I had an incredible time at the conference; I would absolutely recommend the experience to anyone wanting to try something new, step out of their comfort zone and feel part of something bigger!
- Matilda Bhattarai
During the Round Square International Conference at Barker College, we had the opportunity to participate in a lot of entertaining activities that covered different areas of the 6 Round Square IDEALS and encouraged the diversity of Round Square.
From practicing leadership and teamwork skills during urban challenge in the city, to discussions in baraza groups building public speaking abilities and a service day sorting 12 tonnes of clothing for Anglicare as well as planting trees at a new quarry and nature reserve, the program was filled with the perfect mix of fun and exercising our capacity to learn.
We also experienced the true internationalism of Round Square, with 152 schools in attendance from over 30 countries, there was a diverse range of students from many different backgrounds, all with their own unique stories to share. Meeting new people was one of the best parts of RSIC, through pin swapping, sitting with new people at meals, interacting in our homeroom and baraza groups as well as attending cultural nights there were many opportunities to make meaningful friendships.
Additionally, the opening and closing ceremonies were very memorable, boasting guest speakers, movement activities and overall inclusivity and good vibes.
I really enjoyed this experience and would definitely recommend attending the Round Square International Conference to anyone interested in building connections, participating in service and looking to grow their leadership skills.
- Ella Schwer
The RISC was an awesome experience that I missed as soon as I left the gates of Barker College.
I wasn't sure about going, leading up to the trip, however the opportunity to meet so many people from all around the world, sharing completely different experiences and upbringings, is something I'm very glad I didn't miss out on.
Getting to know people through the urban challenge and service activities, and playing football with over 40 people from different countries, was truly an unforgettable experience.
- Tiki Willcocks