Leader of Year 11 Wellbeing 

Year 12 Retreat

Day 1, By Isla Russell (Vice/Mission Captain)

Last Thursday, our upcoming Year 12 cohort travelled to Canyonleigh for the first day of our Year 12 Retreat. It was a fantastic opportunity to step away from the classroom, strengthen our friendships, and create lasting memories together.

Throughout the day, we were split into small groups with people we may not have interacted with before, which helped build stronger connections across our year group. We took part in a variety of activities, including goal setting with Mrs Yvette Kennedy, line dancing with Miss Benson, and a scenic nature walk through the beautiful Canyonleigh surroundings with Mrs Hughes.

We also enjoyed delicious food throughout the day, with plenty of opportunities to relax, laugh, and get to know one another. In the evening, we participated in more fun activities before hearing from a young priest, Fr Sone, whose engaging and relatable talk encouraged us to reflect on our faith and the journey ahead.

The first day of our retreat was an unforgettable experience that brought our cohort closer together as we began preparing for our final year at St Aloysius.

Day 2, By Cameron Gillard (School Captain)

Day 2 began early, with us waking to the sound of Mr Munro blasting an air horn through our windows as payback for keeping him up the night before. Once we were ready for the day, we split into our small groups for our final group activity. While some groups enjoyed a bush walk with Mrs Hughes and Mrs Vukovic or line dancing with Mrs Benson, our group had the opportunity to learn about the work Mr Walker has done through coaching and spinal injury support, including his involvement with the NRL.

It was really insightful to learn about Mr Walker’s career and the way he has pursued his goals. His story inspired me to continue striving for my own ambitions in the same determined way.

We then came together as a whole year group to take part in an Amazing Race, which included a dance challenge, trivia, a river-crossing activity, and more. These challenges were a great opportunity to work together as a team, communicate effectively, and encourage one another to complete each task. The Amazing Race was not only a fun way to bring everyone together, but also reminded us of the importance of teamwork, cooperation, and supporting one another when faced with challenges.

To finish the retreat, we reflected on our time together by writing Year 12 affirmations for one another. Reading these messages on the bus ride home was a meaningful way to end the experience and reflect on the friendships and support within our year group.

Overall, the retreat was a valuable experience that allowed us to grow as individuals, build stronger relationships with our peers, and create lasting memories as a year group.

U Turn The Wheel

By Will Sutherland

In Week 1, Year 12 students participated in the U Turn The Wheel safe driving program. Throughout the day, students rotated through five different stations, focusing on topics such as buying a safe car, the responsibilities surrounding drugs and alcohol, making safe decisions on the road, police enforcement, and the role of ambulance services.

The experience provided students with practical knowledge and valuable insights into the responsibilities that come with driving. It encouraged them to consider the impact of their choices behind the wheel and highlighted the importance of staying safe and responsible on the road.

As many students are beginning their driving journey and working towards their P-plates, the program was a timely reminder that safe driving requires good judgement, awareness, and responsibility.

Important Dates for Year 12

As we move towards the end of the year, please take note of the following important dates:

Week 4

• Monday, 2 November – Leadership Training Day (Student Leaders only)

Week 6

• Friday, 20 November – Year 11 Awards Assembly

Week 8

• Friday, 4 December – Year 12 Assessment Block Commences

We encourage students and families to add these dates to their calendars and plan accordingly. Further information will be provided closer to each event where required.