Year 9 Camp

This year, for the first time, students in Year 9 were given the opportunity to attend one of three engaging and immersive camps.

Camp Wyuna

At Camp Wyuna in Queenscliff, the sand dunes meet the sound of waves. Our Year 9 students got to take part in some amazing activities- canoeing (with exciting races and challenges to test their competitive side), pizza making (the tastiest pizzas ever), a beach carnival (where mermaids were even spotted!), and a camp challenge that tested teamwork and communication. 

Our memories include looking for Henry, eating great food, taking turns ringing the bell, and on the final night watching a spectacular display of athletic ability on the volleyball court. Congratulations to the winners - the girls!

Mrs Suzanne Pola

Roses Gap

Students and staff enjoyed a fantastic camp at Roses Gap in the heart of the Grampians. Blessed with perfect weather, students embraced the opportunity to participate in a wide range of activities, including canoeing, the giant swing, bushwalking, crate stacking and archery.

The breathtaking natural setting provided the perfect backdrop for adventure, teamwork and personal challenge. Throughout the three days, students strengthened friendships, built confidence, and developed new skills, while staff enjoyed seeing their enthusiasm and willingness to give everything a go.

It was a memorable experience for all, and we thank everyone who helped make the camp such a success.

Mrs Lisa Saillard

Sports Academy Camp 

Year 9 Sports Academy students were fortunate to spend three wonderful days together for our camp. On Wednesday, we hosted Ben Welch and Peter Matera for a session of resilience, goal setting and understanding the role of a strong mindset. We were able to ask questions and speak to the guys one-on-one, allowing us to dig deeper into the things that we care about.  

We also spent some time in the Brigidine Gym safely developing our skills and making sure we are well prepared for our strength and conditioning programs. 

It was an early start on Thursday, as we travelled to the Victorian Institute of Sport for a full day of wonderful hands on presentations which included Biomechanics, Physical Testing in the Gym, Sports Psychology and Nutrition. This program was created just for us and was a big hit. 

After dinner, we went to Marvel Stadium to watch the Western Bulldogs destroy the GWS Giants, sitting behind the goals and cheering them on, Keoni was able to mark one of the many goals kicked that night. 

On Friday we travelled to Epping to compete against St Monica's College, a school with a well-established sports academy in football (soccer), basketball and netball. 

Our soccer boys went down 4-2 in a great match in front of 500 SMC students. Our basketball boys and netball girls had strong victories while the basketball girls played out a thriller and were just beaten. 

It was a great camp, and we were so lucky to experience high level sport and see how other schools go about it. 

Tommy Quirk, Year 9 

Saltbush 

For the first time, we offered a bespoke camp options for students who have previously not felt comfortable to attend camp. This camp was hosted by the Presentation Family Centre at Saltbush, Balnarring. Mr Prime and Ms Leopold hosted the students for three great days of arts and garden immersions, provided valuable community support for the centre that does wonderful work for families in need. Students contributed to the ongoing art projects at the space and were supported to make their own meals, and create their own program. This camp has allowed students to engage with other students and create long lasting memories. 

Mr Thomas Dicker