Eclipse House News

Term One has come to an end and Eclipse boarders return home for a well-earnt break. A busy and positive start to the year with lots of activities, events, and recreation outings. Amongst all of this, I have been very impressed with the Eclipse boarders’ level of organisation, receptiveness to change and overall maturity. At the forefront of all interactions there has been an underlying level of respect for both staff and boarders. It has created a warm, honest and welcoming environment in the house. 

In the second half of Term One a common theme has arisen in all my conversations with Eclipse boarders. In times of success, stress, disappointment, grief, and disagreement the ability to have balance within a day, week and month has been crucial. A balance between study, exercise, social meetings, rest, play, work, social media, sleep, academics, recreation, hobbies, and personal commitments. At times, we become unbalanced, leading to stress and a feeling of being overwhelmed. The question we need ask ourselves during this time is. What can I do for myself right now to bring myself back into balance? Many boarders in Eclipse have lent into exercise, sleep, and rest. The acknowledgment of feeling unbalanced has led to a positive shift in individuals, allowing them to re-focus and continue achieving their personal goals. I encourage all boarders throughout the year to maintain balance across their many avenues and seek support from friends, family and staff should they need to. 

This term we have welcomed two house leaders. Hamish Medway and Steven Wiech who presented in the last Buzz article. In association with Darcy Barrett, they have continued to lead by example and be a focal point for students in the house. I congratulate them on a positive start to the year. 

Recreation

Eclipse House has continued to be active. In amongst the large volume of sport on the weekends we have enjoyed beach trips to Muttonbird, Nanarup, Denmark and Middleton Beach. We have also enjoyed many town runs, and op shopping. In Term Two, we aim to explore a few more hiking trails in the area, target some fishing locations and explore the Albany art and theatre scene. 

Bibbulmun Track

Last Friday I met with two volunteers from the Bibblumun Track Foundation. As a boarding community we have been tasked with maintaining a section of the Bibblumun Track throughout the year. We will be looking after a five-kilometre stretch from Lowlands Beach to West Cape Howe campsite. We are looking forward to sharing this volunteer journey with you. 

Weights Area

The Eclipse weights area has been revamped. The addition of more equipment and stable matting has created an area where students can exercise regularly. In Term Two there will be several different programs students can follow based on their age and personal goals.

Farewells

At the end of Term One we farewell Marcus Pigram who returns home to Broome to follow a traineeship pathway. We thank Marcus for the positive impact he has had whilst being in Eclipse. We wish him all the best for his future endeavours. 

Mr Taylor Colton | Head of Eclipse House