VCE VM City Experience 2026

On Friday July 31st, our VCE VM Personal Development students embarked on their annual Melbourne CBD excursion. Throughout the morning, we enjoyed a self-guided walking tour incorporating some of Melbourne's iconic cultural, historical, and architectural landmarks, including Hosier Lane, Degraves Street, the MPavilion, the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, and the Shrine of Remembrance.

Hosier Lane’s iconic street art was vibrant and bursting with colour whilst the narrow European-style atmosphere of Degraves Street lent itself to the sound bathing experience of dozens of diner’s conversations whilst enjoying the aroma of Melbourne’s world leading coffee.

We continued by foot to the Queen Victoria Garden’s M-Pavilion designed by one of Japan’s leading contemporary architects Tadao Ando to create a functional, welcoming space for public gathering. This paired beautifully with an impromptu visit to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, an impressive architectural feat where teacher Matt Dunn put on one of the best open air performances since the music bowls opening in the 1950s belting out Inxs ‘Never Tear us Apart’.

We concluded our morning stroll by visiting the steps of the Shrine of Remembrance.

Facing the CBD, we took in the 32-storey monument of William Barak depicted on a Swanston Street apartment building.

In the early afternoon, we enjoyed the Koorie Heritage Trust walking tour which was the most impactful part of the day, offering invaluable insights into the continuous history and living culture of the Traditional Owners of the land.

A few quotes on the days experience from the students.

“My favourite activity was at the Koorie Heritage Trust when the fighting tools were passed around the circle and we got to hold them” Rory

“My favourite excursion ever. Lots of laughs and fun.” Benny

“The excursion was better than I thought it would be. It surprised me how much there was to learn about Indigenous culture.” Vaughnne

“I liked the street art because it was all different and unique with various colours. It was a really fun excursion and I would do it again.” Ethan

“Learning about Indigenous weapons in detail was the best part.” Mitchell

“The best part was the KHT educator, walking and talking about Indigenous culture.” Micah

“The M-Pavillion was interesting because of its uniqueness and intriguing design.” Massimo

“I enjoyed going to the M-Pavillion because it was peaceful and cool to look at.” Matt

WORK EXPERIENCE

Are you a local business interested in hosting a Year 11/12 Viewbank Student for work experience? please email matt.dunn@education.vic.gov.au. Our engaged and skilled students are looking for their start in a wide range of industries. Carpentry, plumbing, electrical, beauty/cosmetics, hospitality and others.