Middle School 

Year 9 Camp

For three days at Phillip Island Adventure Resort, the sun shone down upon our Year 9s as they took part in the eagerly anticipated InterGREAT Camp. 

Not even a broken-down bus on Monday morning could dampen our spirits! Although waiting for the bus repairman to arrive on the side of Bass Highway was not on our planned list of activities, the patience and positive attitudes of all the students on Bus 5 were a sign of what we could expect for the remainder of our time together at camp.

Once we had all (finally) arrived at camp and settled in, students set off for their first round of activities. Groups rotated through each session over the three days at camp, with each activity designed to test students’ endurance, resilience and problem-solving skills. It was fantastic to hear so much positive feedback from staff about the leadership qualities on display, and the initiative shown by students as they took on these challenges.

Surfing at Smiths Beach was a popular choice for many students, while others enjoyed tackling the Crate Climb challenge, or testing their nerves on the Flying Fox and Giant Swing. Some preferred taking in the sights of the Australia-shaped lake during Canoeing or working their way through one of the many teamwork-based activities, like Team Rescue or Raft Making.

During breaks, there was certainly no shortage of energy or enthusiasm as everyone took advantage of the camp’s sporting facilities. The ‘Gaga Ball’ pit was a particular hit with many students, as spectators crowded around at every break to cheer on the competitors. Rumour has it there were even requests overheard for our very own pit at RSC, which would certainly provide some healthy competition for the downball courts!

Both evenings on camp provided plenty of entertainment; Monday night was a battle of wits in the annual trivia challenge, hosted by our very own Mr Ingleton and Ms Seath. On Tuesday, slightly wearier from an action-packed day of activities, students settled in with pyjamas and popcorn for a choice of movies.

Finally, on Wednesday afternoon, six buses returned to RSC carrying a Year 9 cohort who had proven themselves to be a resilient, hard-working and energetic bunch of students. There were certainly some tired eyes on Thursday morning as they returned to classes, but also on display were a lot of smiles, greetings for new-found friends, and a sense of determination that whatever 2021 has in store for us, our Year 9s will be up for the challenge.

Many thanks to all staff who attended the camp, as well as those involved with the organisation of the event. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Caitlin May

Middle School – Frazer House Coordinator

Year 9 Camp Reflection by Ellie Boucher and Ella Bellesini

The year nine camp at Phillip Island was a fun experience. 

We participated in a range of amazing activities like surfing lessons, the giant swing, twin flying foxes and a movie night. 

The best thing about camp was meeting new people and getting closer to classmates during tasks like the initiative course, where we all had to work together to finish an obstacle course. 

Overall, camp was an amazing, memorable time for us.