Humanities News
St. Joseph's College
Year 11 Geography Excursion – Koondrook, Barham & the Murray
Earlier this week our Year 11 Geography students travelled to Koondrook–Barham and several sites along the Murray River to investigate the benefits and potential challenges of tourism in regional communities. Excursions like this are more than a change of scene; they bring learning to life and connect curriculum with issues that matter now -sustainability, local economies, and community wellbeing.
Our students asked thoughtful questions, were genuinely interested and represented the College exceptionally well. They were consistently respectful and considerate in their interactions with business owners, residents and council staff. We are especially grateful to Mr Scott Wishart, Gannawarra Shire Economic Development Manager, who gave his time and expertise so generously.
The day also strengthened the broader aims of a holistic education: critical and creative thinking, being ethically and culturally aware, listening carefully to different local perspectives, and adjusting one's own views in light of what they heard. Working in teams, students supported one another, communicated confidently with adults in the community and reflected on how they could contribute positively - skills that will serve our students and society as a whole well beyond the classroom.
“We went to Koondrook–Barham to learn about how tourism impacted the community, including the local environment. We spoke to locals and learnt their views on tourism, which were mostly positive.” - Layla
“We met with Mr Scott Wishart, Manager for Economic Development at Gannawarra Shire, who shared helpful insights about Koondrook’s future. We then visited businesses in Barham, including Club Barham, and stopped at several locations along the Murray before lunch in Cohuna. We took lots of photos, interviewed people, made observations and took notes for our field reports.” - Annabelle
Ruth Phillips and Peter Phillips
Humanities Teachers
Debating @ St Joes
Attention Year 10 & 11 students!
- Do you like to argue with your friends (and sometimes win)?
- Do you find yourself challenging the views of others?
- Do you enjoy learning about new topics and sharpening your thinking?
Do you want to be more confident in expressing your opinion?
If you answered yes to any of these, debating might be for you!
Debating is the art of organised argument — two sides, one topic and a contest of ideas backed by evidence and examples. The aim? To convince the other side (and the audience) that your reasoning is stronger.
When: Wednesday 29 October, 12 November and 26 November at the start of lunch. We’ll continue in 2026, with fortnightly meetings to begin with, moving to weekly once we’re ready to compete.
Where: Upstairs in the Delany Foyer
Bring: Your lunch, your curiosity and a friend!
Come along, find out more, and see if debating could be your thing. No prior experience needed - you’ll pick it up as you go!
Mr Vehlen & Mrs Phillips
Your Voice. Your Community. Your Chance.
In 2026, 150 young people from across Australia will be chosen – one from every electorate – to represent their communities at the National Youth Parliament in Canberra.
This is your chance to:
- Speak up on the issues that matter most to you
- Share your story and ideas with other young leaders
- Gain real skills through hands-on learning — from simulated debates in Parliament to workshops with MPs and tackling real-world policy challenges
You’ll not just talk about change — you’ll learn how laws are made, how to influence decision-makers, and how your voice can shape the future.
Who can apply?
Anyone aged 16–17 in August 2026. No experience needed — just passion, curiosity, and a desire to represent your community.
Applications close 21 November 2025. Travel, meals, and accommodation are fully covered.
Don’t wait for someone else to speak for you. Step up, be heard, and make your mark.
Apply now — your voice matters.
Use this link for more information and to apply
Mrs Phillips
Humanities Learning Leader