Middle School

Year 8 Camp on Phillip Island 

Article by Richard Meats, Year 8 Leader 

This year’s Year 8 camp took us back to the CYC Resort on Phillip Island - our tenth visit to this location as a College. The resort continues to be a reliable favourite thanks to its mix of comfort, outdoor space, and activities that encourage students to try new experiences while making important new connections with their peers. 

One of the evening highlights was the trip to the iconic Penguin Parade, where students watched the little penguins make their way up the beach at dusk. For many, seeing them in person for the first time was a standout moment of the whole camp. 

Students also enjoyed a visit to A Maze’N Things, where they explored the mazes, illusions, puzzles, and quirky attractions. It was a fun, light‑hearted part of the program, with plenty of laughter and a few moments of healthy frustration inside the maze. 

The group also spent time at the Koala Sanctuary, walking along the elevated boardwalks and spotting koalas resting high in the trees. It was a calm, peaceful break in the program and gave students a chance to see native wildlife up close. 

A highlight of the camp was the coastal walk to The Pinnacles, led by Clayton Martin, College Head of Physical Education. The walk offered incredible views of the coastline and some of Phillip Island’s most striking rock formations. Clayton enthusiastically guided three individual groups along the track, sharing his knowledge and keeping the students safe and engaged with the landscape around them. We are very fortunate to have his expertise and passion for outdoor education. 

Overall, the camp once again gave our Year 8 students a chance to build friendships, explore the outdoors, and enjoy learning beyond the classroom. 

A sincere thank you goes to all staff who attended the camp and supported the Year 8 cohort throughout the program. Their patience, energy, organisation, and willingness to step in wherever needed helped ensure the camp ran smoothly from start to finish. From supervising activities to encouraging students through challenges and being a steady presence throughout the three days, their work made a significant difference to our students' overall experience. We are incredibly grateful for the time and care they invested in making the camp such a success.