Eclipse House News

I want to extend a huge thank you to the boys in Eclipse for the incredibly warm welcome they’ve given me, my wife Ella, and our son, Fletcher. It’s been wonderful to see the kindness and camaraderie within the house, especially how the older boys have embraced little Fletcher. The laughter and joy of a toddler basking in all the attention has been truly heartwarming. It really feels like a big family, with some older brothers for him to look up to.

The energy in Eclipse is as strong as ever. Whether it’s football, hockey, volleyball, gym sessions, or academic commitments, the boys are always busy and engaged, which has been fantastic to see. I was pleased to contribute some of my own gym equipment to the setup at the back, and it’s been brilliant watching the space become a hub for fitness and socialising. It’s more than just a workout area, it’s a place for everyone to connect and grow together.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to get involved in a few new projects with the boys. This term, we’re launching the Shed Project in VACS, and we hope to integrate it into boarding life as well. It’s a hands-on initiative working with small combustion engines, offering a practical and engaging way to build valuable skills.

Weekends will be lively, with the fire pit providing a great spot to gather, and trips to IGA adding to the fun. We’re also planning to refresh the much-loved Sunday session, making sure it remains a key time for relaxation and connection across the houses.

I’m really looking forward to seeing how these experiences strengthen the sense of community in Eclipse and Boarding. A huge thank you to Mrs Di  Franzinelli, Mrs Nyree Mackenzie, Ms Liz Stewart, and Mr Jordan Owenell for their support over these first few weeks, along with the supervisors. It’s a privilege to be part of the boarding team and to contribute to providing the best possible care, guidance, and support for the boys.

On Monday we had our Boarders' Assembly and I would like to share with you a reflection from Eclipse Boarder, Matt Cant.

I started boarding back in Year Seven, coming from a town called Kojonup, where my family farms sheep and crops. I am the youngest of four. The transition from home to boarding at Grammar and living with a large group of people was quite an adjustment, but once I got used to it, I found it really enjoyable. You meet plenty of new friends and make a lot of great memories.

I began my boarding journey in Anchorage House, which accommodated students from Years Nine to Twelve. However, Anchorage has recently been closed, and Endeavour House has been turned into a coeducational house. I think this change has many benefits, it encourages more interaction, bringing everyone together as one house. It also helps build friendships between both boys and girls, creating a more inclusive environment.

I am currently in Eclipse House, which is for Years Nine to Twelve. Moving here was an exciting change because it’s a much bigger house, and it felt like everyone got along really well. I already knew most of the people when I moved to Eclipse, so the transition was much easier than when I first started boarding in Year Seven. I also feel that Eclipse offers more activities, greater freedom, and a lot more space compared to Anchorage.

Here’s to a fantastic term ahead!

Mr Brodie Sarre | Head of Eclipse House