What's happening in Boarding?
Weekend Recreational Activities
KBBQ & Kinokuniya Visit – Week 4 Rec
In Week 4, the girls mixed things up for their Rec activity with a fun outing to Chinatown. We spent 90 minutes at Butcher’s Buffet, an all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ restaurant, where the girls got hands-on grilling a variety of meats and vegetables right at the table. It was a lively and delicious lunch experience!
Although dessert wasn’t included in the meal deal, our ever-spirited Year 8s didn’t let that stop them, they decided icy poles were a perfect follow-up, despite the 17°C weather!
With a bit of extra time before heading back to Kambala, we made an impromptu stop at Kinokuniya, a Japanese bookstore located in Town Hall. The girls had 30 minutes to explore the shelves, and many picked up a book or two to enjoy.
The fun didn’t stop there, on the bus ride home, everyone joined in for a round of back seat charades, making for a lively end to a fantastic day. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the outing and have already said they’d love to do something similar again soon!
Kambala Boarders Hit the Greens at Holey Moley
In Week 5, the Kambala Boarders enjoyed a fun-filled outing to Holey Moley Putt Putt Golf. The girls brought their energy, laughter, and plenty of friendly competition as they made their way around the quirky and creative mini-golf course. With challenges ranging from tricky putts to playful themed holes, the girls showed great teamwork and spirit while cheering each other on.
After a lively round of golf, the group headed to Yo-Chi to cool off with some delicious frozen yoghurt. With a huge variety of toppings and flavours on offer, there was plenty of creativity (and joy!) in designing their own frozen yoghurt masterpieces.
The outing was the perfect mix of activity and relaxation — a chance for the girls to spend quality time together away from the Boarding House.
Boarder Birthdays
Happy birthday to Arabella (Yr 10) for August 18th - the beautiful cake brought in by Mum was appreciated by all.
Special birthday wishes go to Zanna (Yr 12) for her 18th birthday on August 24th. We’re happy she can celebrate after the exam period! Happy Birthday Zanna from all of us.
Boarding Gap Year Student Spotlight: Isabella Standfast
Where are you from, and what is something special about your hometown?
I am from Bearsted, Kent in England, a charming village in the southeast. Kent is known for having more castles than any other county in England, which makes it quite unique. Additionally, being so close to London, many famous movies and television shows have been filmed there—including Bridgerton, Pride and Prejudice, Avengers, and even some James Bond films!
What made you decide to take a gap year in Australia?
I chose to take a gap year in Australia because it is an incredible opportunity to explore a part of the world I have never visited before. I wanted to meet new people, work, and experience a new culture. It is also exciting to connect with other gap year students from all over the world and build new friendships.
What did you study in school, and what do you hope to study in the future?
In school, I studied English Literature, Psychology, and Graphic Design. While I enjoyed those subjects, I am passionate about the arts and hope to pursue further studies in television and film, theatre, or dance.
Do you have any hobbies or sports you enjoy?
Dance has been a huge part of my life since I was two and a half years old. I have trained in ballet, contemporary, jazz, pointe, tap, and musical theatre. I have competed in dance competitions and had the amazing opportunity to perform at Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London and even at Disneyland Paris! I am also an avid reader, especially of thriller, murder mystery, and dystopian novels.
What has surprised you the most about Australian school life?
Back in England, I did not attend a boarding school, so living in a boarding house has been a fascinating experience. The boarders here are all so lovely, and it has been great getting to know them. Living in Sydney is also quite different—I am not used to city life, but the views are stunning, and I do not think I will ever get tired of them!
What is a fun fact about you most people do not know?
I spent six months traveling around New Zealand’s North Island on my own, working at a girls’ boarding school in Hawke’s Bay. I drove the entire way from Cape Reinga down to Wellington—my first solo trip! I absolutely love traveling.
What is something you would like to learn or try while you are here in Australia?
I have had a couple of surf lessons before in Devon, but I would love to surf more while I am here because the waves in Australia are amazing. I am also keen to learn about Australian culture and Indigenous heritage as I travel around the country.
Events
On Wednesday of Week 5, several of our Year 12 boarding students proudly displayed their major works at the 2025 HSC Creative Showcase held in Alexander Hall. Their dedication and hard work, often involving many sleepless nights, was evident in the impressive pieces exhibited.
Congratulations to all the students for their outstanding efforts. It was wonderful to see their families there, showing their support and celebrating these achievements together.
Key Dates
Term 3
Monday 22 September - 6pm Y12 Boarders’ Parents Dinner in Boarding
Friday 26 September - Boarders’ travel day house closes at noon.
Term 4
Monday 13 October - Boarders’ return, house opens at noon.
Wednesday 10 December - Speech Day, boarding house closes at 4pm