Newsletter

Reflecting on the day, two Year 7 students, Chloe and Tina, shared, “We played a series of different games, the theme was self-image. We played a game called Jokey and a game of trivia.” Their words capture the energy and enjoyment experienced throughout the activities.

A highlight for many was the series of performances, which explored different aspects of self-image. As the students described, “They did little performances. There was one about how a girl had to go up on stage, and others kept changing her, then one person came and made her be herself.” These performances encouraged students to think more deeply about identity and the importance of authenticity.

The day also included opportunities for students to connect with one another. “We did a get-to-know-you game where you had to go around and talk to different people,” they explained, highlighting how the activities helped build new friendships and confidence.

Summing up their experience, the students reflected, “We learnt that everyone was different and that it was good to meet/talk to new people.” This message sat at the heart of the day, reminding students of the value of embracing individuality and forming meaningful connections.

Working as a team alongside the property owner and Blaze Aid Coordinator Steve Matthews, 11 students helped remove 240 metres of burnt-out fencing and installed 200 metres of new fencing. They cleared fence lines, removed damaged posts, recycled usable wire, rolled barbed wire, and learned how to tension and secure new fencing.

This hands-on experience allowed students to develop practical skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the impact of bushfires. It also highlighted the importance of community, resilience, and supporting others in times of need. We are proud of our students for their effort and willingness to give back and make a positive difference.

Miss Pam Scott

Learning Community Leader: Vocational Major & Vocational Pathway

Guests enjoyed a delightful spread of food, thoughtfully prepared and served with care, while our VM students proudly showcased their barista skills by preparing coffees for guests throughout the morning. But above all, it was the company that made the morning truly special, a wonderful celebration of the love, strength, and kindness that mothers bring to our lives every day.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this event so memorable.

The journey began with great excitement as students flew into the heart of Australia, Uluru, where the vast red desert landscape immediately set the tone for the adventure ahead. From there, students embarked on an incredible 11-night journey by bus, travelling all the way through the Northern Territory to Darwin, experiencing the rich diversity of Australia’s natural environment along the way.

Throughout the camp, students embraced every opportunity to immerse themselves in the outdoors. They explored breathtaking national parks, took part in scenic walks, and cooled off in beautiful natural waterholes. Each destination offered its own sense of wonder and discovery, encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones and fully engage with the environment around them.

A key feature of the camp was the opportunity to deepen students’ understanding of Australia’s cultural heritage. Visits to cultural centres provided meaningful insights into First Nations histories and traditions, enriching the overall experience and fostering a strong sense of respect and appreciation.

Beyond the landscapes and activities, one of the most valuable aspects of the Top End Camp was the strong sense of community that developed among students. Living and travelling together for nearly two weeks required teamwork, resilience, and cooperation. Students worked collaboratively to set up and pack down campsites each day, demonstrating growing independence and responsibility. These shared tasks, combined with group night activities, created countless moments of laughter, connection, and camaraderie.

Evenings were a highlight, with students coming together after full days of adventure to participate in group activities under the stars. These moments not only provided time to reflect on the day’s experiences but also strengthened friendships and built a genuine sense of belonging within the cohort.

The Year 10 Top End Camp is far more than just a trip it is a transformative experience. Students returned home with a deeper appreciation for Australia’s natural beauty, stronger friendships, and increased confidence in their ability to take on challenges.

We are incredibly proud of the way our Year 10 students conducted themselves throughout the camp, showing enthusiasm, resilience, and a willingness to embrace every opportunity. It is an experience that will no doubt remain a treasured memory for years to come.

Ms Sarah Borch

Top End Tour 2026 Staff Member

Our age group champions were:

12-13 years girls: Kaitlyn (Year 7)

12-13 years boys: Lucas (Year 7)

14 years girls: Lexi (Year 8)

14 years boys: Nash (Year 8)

15 years girls:  Georgia (Year 10)

15 years boys: Manny (Year 9)

16 years girls: Olivia (Year 10)

16 years boys: Jarryn (Year 10)

17 years girls: Emmy (Year 11)

17 years boys: Izaac (Year 11)

18-20 years girls: Mason (Year 12)

18-20 years boys: Achie (Year 12)

Our fastest runners in the school were Lewis (Year 11) and Harmony (Year 11).

The overall results are as follows:

In fourth place was Glowrey house with a total of 1,732 points.

In third place was McAuley House with a total of 2,142 points. Only 41 points behind MacKillop.

In second place was MacKillop House with a total of 2,183 points.

In first place was Rice House with a total of 2,427 points.

Congratulations once again to Rice House, who are killing it in 2026. Well done!!

Mrs Jane Hawker

Learning Area Leader: HPE & Sports Coordinator

Nash secured 3rd place with an impressive final jump of 12.32 metres. This effort not only marked his best jump of the competition but also set a new personal best, moving him into a podium position on his final attempt.

We spoke with Nash following the championships about his experience.

Nash is currently in his third season of athletics and has been training consistently, travelling to Geelong each Tuesday to work with his coach in preparation for competitions.

Reflecting on his achievement, Nash said he felt “really proud” to stand on the podium. He described the overall experience as “very exciting but also nerve-racking,” highlighting the intensity of competing at a national level.

Nash also expressed his gratitude, thanking both his mum and his coach for their ongoing support and guidance. Looking ahead, Nash hopes to continue competing at both state and national levels as he further develops his skills in the sport.

This year, the college will be proudly represented by four teams of students. Among them is a Year 10 group featuring Bonnie, Indee, Owen and Ollie, who bring valuable experience having participated in the inaugural event last year. Their enthusiasm and insight will no doubt inspire others as they take on the challenge again.

Joining them are three teams of Year 9 students (Sybella, Shecania, Audrey, Olivia, Evie, Alexis, Esther, and Ellen), all of whom share a strong passion for media, storytelling and film production. Their creativity and commitment promise to produce powerful and engaging documentary pieces.

Key Dates

Friday 15 May : Students will complete their 3-minute documentaries during the competition day.

Friday 29 May: Documentaries will be released publicly, beginning the fundraising phase.

Saturday 20 June: Fundraising concludes.

Early Term 3: Awards announced for best documentaries and highest fundraising efforts.

Supporting the Edmund Rice Foundation

Doco in a Day is a vital fundraiser for the Edmund Rice Foundation (ERF), which supports education and assistance for marginalised communities across the world. This includes the Rueben Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, which our college had hoped to visit during this year’s Tanzania trip, unfortunately, cancelled. Supporting this initiative is a meaningful way to maintain our connection to these communities.

How You Can Support

We’re encouraging our community to support the documentaries when they are released on 29 May by viewing and sharing them on social media and contributing financially if possible. Each documentary will conclude with a link to donate to ERF.  Your support will help make a positive impact through the work of the ERF.