Boarding

Busy boarders

Our first week as a full Year 7-12 Boarding House has been incredibly busy. As we say in boarding, "The days seem long, but the weeks fly by." It's an old and odd saying, but one that perfectly captures how much we pack into each day. There is a lot on offer and a to do each day, and staying busy helps with the transition into boarding life, especially for our new boarders.

Individually, our boarders have been actively pursuing their interests and passions—and they are thriving! I see boarders coming and going at lightning speed: equestrian and jumping lessons, Run Club, tennis and basketball in the evening on the courts, squash, afternoon golf, HILAC and gymnasium workouts, evening music and voice practice, 7am swimming training, cricket training, football practice, and plenty of rowing on the lake. 

We have also kicked off our Tricky Trivia this week on the theme of music, with Mac House girls taking out the prize and gaining points for the House Cup awarded at the end of the year. Henry and Henrietta have conducted their House meetings with confidence, and the Boarding Committee have met this week too; working on a display board in the common room and ideas for evening supper. It certainly has been busy but a very rewarding start to our term.

Surfing Trip

The annual surfing trip to Port Fairy is always a highlight of the year. This time, 35 boarders attended on an extremely hot day. While temperatures in Hamilton soared to 38°C, Port Fairy provided a much-needed escape with a pleasant 28°C.

With a visit from our Principal and our Captains leading the way, boarders hit the waves—some for the first time and others showcasing their expertise. Words simply can’t capture the excitement and shrieks of joy on these trips. Watching boarders learn to surf for the first time, and having fun together, is truly very special.

Beyond surfing, the day was filled with cricket matches on the beach, swimming, and wandering through town in small groups for well-earned ice creams. It was the perfect way for our boarders to bond and enjoy themselves.

Boarders of the Week

This week, we are celebrating two Boarders of the Week! The Senior on Duty (SOD) role, carried out by Year 11 students, is designed to develop leadership skills and experience. Pepper Bowes and Bailey Clarke have embraced this role with outstanding dedication.

They have quickly built connections with younger boarders and played a key role in helping new students settle in. While the Year 12s were away at their retreat, Pepper and Bailey confidently took charge of dinner service announcements, demonstrating leadership and commitment.

Congratulations, Pepper and Bailey!

Message from our Boarding Captains

We really enjoyed our time at the Year 12 Retreat, finding the activities fun and insightful. We also loved seeing both Deakin University campuses and getting a feel for university life. 

Coming back to the Boarding House has been extremely busy and exciting. It has been a pleasure meeting so many new faces in the boarding family. The new boarders have been amazing at adapting to a new lifestyle and creating new opportunities. We were especially proud of Isabelle in Year 7 for trying new activities and joining the boarding committee. We’re so proud to see the continuation of the friendly and inclusive environment throughout both Houses. 

The Year 12 common rooms are already being used to full capacity for many weekend meals, such as my bacon and egg sandwiches and Hugo’s famous pancakes. It is great to see our close friends again after the holidays, and we are ready to tackle Year 12 together. (Also, congratulations to Chloe and Skye Headlam for getting their licences!)

Henrietta Russell and Henry Russell