Eclipse House News
I can’t believe the term is over already. The last few weeks have been extremely busy with various events and the Year Twelve students recognising that their time in Boarding is coming to a close. For all of them, this is a time of excitement and a reason to celebrate but can also be a little nerve racking as they are about to step out into the unknown.
Firewood Collecting
On Sunday 5 September, we split and collected a trailer load of firewood from Hawker Ridge Winery in Kendenup. This was then raffled off at the Kingfisher Fair. Unfortunately this also happened to be Father’s Day so the majority of the boys were out on leave, but Trenton Hams and Alexander Norrish’s efforts were impressive. They worked hard until the trailer was full and they did an incredible job. On the way back we stopped in at the Mount Barker Bakery to grab enough food to sustain us for the return drive. It was a great day spent with these two young men and I was very appreciative of their help.
Football Grand Final
No, not the AFL. I’m talking about the Great Southern Football League. Four of the Eclipse boys were privileged enough to play in the Grand Final. Berkley Somerscales, Jack Carlson, Darcy Barrett and Rhori Williams-Jolley all played very well. Unfortunately they were not all on the same side so they couldn’t all come away with the win but they played hard and should all be very proud of their efforts.
Hockey
Josh Cameron, Quinten Robinson, Alexander Norrish, Jack Carlson and Daniel Fisher all played and were victorious in the local Hockey Grand Final. The game was exceptionally close and the boys have not taken their medals off all week. Daniel saved a couple of crucial goals in overtime while Jack was named Best on Ground. We are all so proud of this team and the mammoth effort they have put in this season.
Due South Dinner
To celebrate the efforts of the boys over the previous couple of weeks, and to enjoy a night out as a house, on Monday 13 September we all went to dinner at Due South. It was such an enjoyable night together, some of the boys commented that they had never been to Due South before and had a great time. The food was beautiful and the experience of getting off site and going somewhere different was greatly enjoyed and appreciated by all.
Year Twelve Farewell Dinner
Last Monday night we hosted a farewell dinner in Eclipse for the Year Twelves. Various staff attended including Mr Mark Bonnin and Mr Mark Sawle, to wish the Year Twelves all the best in their next chapter of life. We also enjoyed the company of Mrs Rosie Deveson and Mr Brett Tompkin as special guests for the evening, at the request of the Year Twelve students. The dining hall provided a range of steaks, chicken kebabs and sausages to cook on the BBQ, as well as two salads and dessert. While Greta and I provided a range of snacks and appetizers for the evening. The Year Tens helped to set the house up and manned the BBQ. Darcy Barrett and Hamish Medway were particularly helpful in getting the event organized and ensuring the food was a culinary delight. After dinner some of the Year Ten boys gave short speeches about the Year Twelve's and presented them with a small farewell gift. The night was filled with memories and laughter and was greatly enjoyed by all.
Birthdays
Happy birthday to Fletcher Cugley, Brendan Quick and Trenton Hams who all turned 16 in September.
Exams
The ATAR Year Twelves have their first exam this week and are spending their spare time studying and readying themselves for it. The remainder of their exams will take place across the holidays, we wish them all the best for this stressful time, knowing that their hard work throughout the year will pay off.
I know the boys are excited for the break and I wish you all safe travels, where ever you go. I look forward to seeing you all again next term and making the most of the beautiful weather we are now starting to enjoy.
As always please feel free to call, text or email me on 0448 125 919 or at brenton.rice@gsg.wa.edu.au anytime.
Mr Brenton Rice | Head of Eclipse House