Around the Senior School

Geography

HSC Geography Fieldwork | Sydney/Orange

A new opportunity arose with the updated Geography curriculum to create a collaborative fieldwork experience with St Ignatius' College, Riverview and Loreto Kirribilli.

On Day 1, students travelled to Sydney to explore the evolving landscape of Sydney Olympic Park, tracing its transformation from an industrial wasteland to an Olympic precinct and now a thriving hub for entertainment, sports, and residential development.

On Day 2, students visited Orange, where they were welcomed by local MP Phil Donato, who led a Q&A session on the contemporary challenges faced by Orange as a regional centre. Charlotte Gundry from Orange City Council provided valuable insights into Orange’s appeal as a tourist destination, highlighting the benefits of Wine Week, Food Week, and the viticulture industry. Students then conducted a transect across Orange, from east to west, concluding their study at Gaanha Bula - Mt Canobolas.

This experience was an outstanding learning opportunity, enabling both rural and urban students to exchange ideas and engage in collaborative outdoor education.

Year 7 Geography Fieldwork | Wellington Caves

As part of their Landscapes and Landforms topic, students visited Wellington Caves for an immersive learning experience. The day was a great success, with students participating in a guided cave investigation, a fossil dig, and an exploration of the geomorphic changes that have shaped the caves over millions of years.

A special thank you to Mr William Waterson for organising the day. Despite the warm conditions, the students had a fantastic time.

Year 10 Geography Fieldwork | Gaanha Bula - Mt Canobolas

As part of the Year 10 Geography assessment program, students explored the social, economic, and environmental impacts of mountain bike riding on Orange and the surrounding community.

The fieldwork experience began with a presentation from guest speaker Jack Rahilli, owner of AdvancedCAD and president of the Orange Mountain Bike Club. Jack, who specialises in designing environmentally sustainable mountain bike and walking tracks, provided insights into minimising habitat disruption and erosion.

Students then rode the beginner section of the Galinbundinya Trail at Lidster, investigated the Indigenous heritage of the mountain, and explored the sub-alpine environment. This hands-on outdoor learning experience will provide valuable preparation for their first assessment task.

Blackman House fundraising for the Black Dog Institute

On Wednesday 5 March, Blackman House held a Bake Sale to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute. This was a huge success, with students raising $437.00. The Black Dog Institute is dedicated to research and support for preventing, treating and managing mental health conditions. Students were also invited to draw chalk images and messages with the message of ‘Wellbeing’ to coincide with Wellbeing Day.

Blackman House students also participated in Clean Up Australia Day, working together to clean rubbish from the playground.