School News

Year 12 Outdoor and Environmental Studies

The Year 12 Outdoor & Environmental Studies class recently completed their Feathertop Overnight Hike, following the iconic Razorback Track, an exposed and striking ridgeline linking Mount Hotham to the summit of Feathertop (Victoria’s second-highest, and arguably most impressive, peak). Students were treated to a perfect bluebird day, with panoramic views stretching right across the Bogong High Plains.

Federation Hut Camp & A Windy Night:

The group camped overnight at Federation Hut, where calm evening conditions quickly changed. At around 4am, the saddle transformed into a noisy wind tunnel, creating a chaotic, but memorable night for all. Despite limited sleep, students rallied with good humour as the first light reached the valley.

Understanding Relationships with the High Country:

A central purpose of this trip was to explore how human relationships with the Bogong High Plains have changed over time.

We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land surrounding Mt Hotham: the Gunaikurnai, Taungurung, and Jaithmathang/Dhudoroa peoples. For thousands of years before European arrival, Aboriginal communities travelled to the High Country during the warmer months for ceremony, trade, and social gatherings. One of the most significant reasons for these seasonal journeys was the harvesting of Bogong Moths, a nutrient‑rich food source collected in large numbers from the alpine peaks. 

Students also examined how European interactions reshaped these environments. From the 1830s, squatters searching for grazing land moved into the region, followed by rapid population growth after the discovery of gold in 1851. Mining, cattle grazing, and increased movement across the ranges left lasting impacts on the landscape and shaped settlement patterns across the Alpine region.

In addition, the class explored the long history of alpine tourism. Skiing has been recorded at Hotham for more than 125 years, beginning with travellers who strapped timber planks to their boots at the Mount St Bernard Hospice in the 1880s.

Leadership, Teamwork & Personal Growth:

The combination of swirling winds, an early start, and fatigue from the previous day’s 11km journey created a genuine challenge. It was fantastic to see students respond with maturity, initiative, and care for one another. Throughout the morning ascent they:

• offered to take extra weight from tired group members,
• chose to walk alongside peers who needed encouragement,
• allowed others to set a pace that kept the group united.

I encourage students to continue building these skills by recognising when help is needed, both asking for and accepting support, and by demonstrating awareness of their own limits and the wellbeing of others. By the time the group drove into Bright, any hardships from the day had faded. Spirits were high and the well‑deserved stop at Gumtree Pies was enjoyed by all.

I hope this trip inspires our students to continue exploring the amazing environments right on our doorstep. Special thanks to Vicky for volunteering her time to ensure supervision ratios were met, and for being a fun and supportive member of the group.

Mr C. 

Youth Crew Day 2

Students participating in the Youth Crew program recently completed their second day of training. First year crew spent time getting to know their trucks, as well as working through some OH&S training. The second year students ran a team-building session, before heading into a smoke-filled room as part of their training.

Regional Swimming Sports

Last Friday, our talented and dedicated swimmers took to the pool to represent our small school. We are pleased to say they did this with the usual respect, good humour, smiles and sporting behaviour that Mount Beauty students are known for.

Everyone gave it their best, and had a good day out at Waves in Wodonga. Bronze medals went to Rowan for the 50m breastroke in his age group, and our Medley Relay team. The medley relay team had to compete in the u16 male category, and our team consisted of male and female swimmers, some who had to swim up by 2 age groups. Well done to all!

Casual Dress Day

The Student Rep Council would like you to get behind their first fundraiser for the year. On the last day of Term - THURSDAY the 2nd of April - wear blue for Dolly. You'll see posters around school soon, and you can find out more about this cause by clicking here. Do It For Dolly Day helps create a kinder, safer world for every young person. By taking part, you’re honouring Dolly Everett’s memory and her dream of a world free from bullying.