Boarding House News
Poorneet
Poorneet (the year 7 house) has found it's feet in the last few weeks of term. Our students have confidently adapted to their boarding routines and and expectations. They have built new friendships and taken on more responsibilities such as walking to and from school independently and choosing some of our weekend activities.
A big highlight has been starting football training with the Richmond Junior Football Club (RJCF). They met their new team mates and played their first practice match last week.
The group are looking forward to playing their first match of the season next term.
By Tom Mitchell
Buarth Gurru
Buarth Gurru (the year 8 fellas) have been adapting to their new boarding house and learning how to grow and navigate school and boarding as young men.
We are starting to see some young leaders emerge from the group and make good role models for the younger students who's shoes they were in not too long ago.
The year 8 fellas played and won their grand final for the Collingwood Allstars Basketball team and are very excited to get stuck into the footy season. They will be playing for the Richmond Juniors Football Club (RJFC). The fellas have also taken part in some fun activities to finish the team such as sailing, visiting Healesville Sanctuary, Mountain Biking and Rock Climbing.
By Tom Mitchell
Biderap House
This term has truly highlighted the strength of our students’ unity, teamwork, and commitment to supporting one another. We have seen students consistently demonstrate kindness, maturity, and a strong sense of community. Their dedication to boarding life has also stood out, with excellent attendance and positive engagement in boarding becoming features of the term.
A major highlight was the Year 8 camp in Tuerong, where students embraced new challenges, built resilience, and strengthened friendships. Their enthusiasm during team activities and their willingness to support one another made the camp a memorable experience for everyone involved. We also proudly took part in the Reconciliation Fun Run, giving students a meaningful opportunity to deepen their understanding and connection to mob in VIC. Adding to the excitement, AFL returned with a bang this term, with students attending many games already. It was an exciting end for sport in term 1 with students playing and winning basketball grand finals and going as far are being rewarded with MVP. All are looking forward to their own football games with Richmond Junior Football Club, with the season in full effect in Term 2.
As the term comes to a close, it’s clear that our students have had a fantastic few months. They have worked hard, supported each other, and embraced every opportunity. They’ve certainly earned a well-deserved break and we look forward to welcoming them back refreshed for another successful term ahead.
By Taylor Bailey-Lindsay
Garrawang House
The Senior Fellas concluded Term 1 with strong engagement and positive momentum, settling back into boarding routines after the summer break. The early weeks focused on re-establishing structure, strengthening relationships, and supporting students as they transitioned into the rhythm of school and boarding life.
Throughout the term, students participated in a wide range of activities that promoted connection, confidence, and overall wellbeing. With basketball and school commitments concluding later in the term, students balanced sport with additional recreational opportunities. Excursions included visits to St Kilda Beach, Gumbuya World, the Cable Park, Moomba Festival events, mini golf, and attendance at both NRL and AFL matches.
These experiences supported positive peer relationships and created opportunities for shared enjoyment. In-house activities also provided important downtime, helping students maintain a healthy balance between activity and rest.
A standout experience this term was a sailing day with the Sorrento Sailing Club. Students enjoyed their time on the water and were fortunate to see dolphins and other marine wildlife, making it a memorable shared experience.
Within the boarding house, students participated in healthy cooking sessions that encouraged responsibility, routine, and wellbeing. Ongoing conversations around healthy phone use supported the development of respectful boundaries and positive habits.
Hosting De La Salle students for dinner was another highlight, with students demonstrating pride, organisation, and respect for their shared space.
Academically, improvements in attendance were observed, providing a strong foundation for Term 2 and beyond.
By Tom Conron