Brigidine College St Ives Year 11 Duke of Edinburgh Students shine at Saltbush Balnarring Beach

During Term 4 last year, sixteen Year 11 Gold Duke of Edinburgh students, accompanied by Ms. Carroll and Mr. Vale, embarked on an unforgettable journey to Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula for their Gold Residential Project. Students resided at Saltbush Balnarring Beach, one of Kildare Ministries' Community Works, which provides respite holidays for those facing financial, medical, and social hardships.

This trip was a meaningful experience that combined community service with recreation, fostering growth, learning, and lasting memories.

Throughout the week, students engaged in various community service activities, contributing to the upkeep and improvement of the accommodation facilities at Saltbush. The students painted houses, organised storage sheds, cleaned housing exteriors, tended to vegetable gardens, and restored outdoor furniture. Their efforts ensured that Saltbush remains a welcoming and functional place for visitors to relax and enjoy their respite stay.

One of the highlights of the week was welcoming families from the Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project (BASP), another of Kildare Ministries' Community Works. The students hosted a wonderful Christmas lunch, sharing typical Australian and Pakistani dishes, and engaging in fun activities like soccer, beach volleyball, flag races on the beach, and giant Jenga. Students quickly built connections with the families, and it was a fantastic day for all, making for a tough farewell.

Students balanced their service with a variety of recreational activities that showcased the beauty and uniqueness of the local area. They learned about the Presentation Sisters dedication to environmental conservation and the native Wildlife Corridor Project. A trip to Mornington Beach included swimming, stand-up paddling and kayaking. Evenings were filled with a trivia night and hangouts with friends. Additionally, a yoga and breathwork session offered moments of reflection and relaxation, helping students unwind and connect with each other.

A standout moment of the trip was the visit to Phillip Island, where the students witnessed the famous Penguin Parade. This experience, coupled with a dinner in Cowes and a visit to former Brigidine students Maddy and Charlotte’s winning ‘The Block’ house, was a highlight for many.

The trip to Saltbush was more than just an excursion; it was a journey of service, learning, and relationship-building. The students returned with new skills in painting, furniture restoration, and gardening, and a deeper appreciation for community service. Saltbush provided the perfect setting for these young individuals to grow, reflect, and create memories that will last a lifetime. This experience was not only enriching but also left a positive impact on the community they served.

Sincere thanks to Megan Willis (Operations Coordinator) and Maree Feutrill (CEO) from Saltbush, whose endless enthusiasm and passion helped to shape and run this successful trip. Their tireless efforts are most appreciated.

Elle Carroll

Student - Brigidine College St Ives Sydney