From the Principal’s Desk: Learning Through the Eyes of Our Youngest Leaders
This week, I had the absolute pleasure of listening to our Year 1 students as they prepared for the upcoming Public Speaking Competition. Some of the children tackled the topic “If I were the Principal of Masada College for one day.” Their ideas were creative, bold, and full of delightful surprises, and I have been left not only entertained but also inspired.
One child envisioned a world where students could wear mufti every day while the staff donned uniforms. Another called for ice cream at lunch, and one enthusiastic student suggested we spend the entire day in the library because, as they so wisely pointed out, “reading books is fun.” Music and dance parties were frequent on their schedules, along with making friendship bracelets as a schoolwide activity.
The innovation didn’t stop there. Ideas like learning to play soccer on an international level through XBOX, or enhancing the school menu with cheesy pizza, popcorn, and lollies for students (and coffee and chocolate for the staff!) also made the list. My personal favourite suggestion? Learning maths by counting how many marshmallows you could fit in your mouth at once!
Amid all the fun and imaginative ideas, there was also a serious message—kindness, something that was treated as non-negotiable, reflecting the very core of what we believe in at Masada College. It was a timely reminder that no matter how far we dream, our values remain central.
Their creativity reminded me of a famous experiment often cited by Sir Ken Robinson in his talks on education—the paperclip experiment. In this study, a group of kindergarten children were asked how many different uses they could think of for a paperclip. Their answers were astonishingly varied and imaginative—much more so than those given by older children or adults. The reason? Young children tend to approach problems without the mental constraints that limit creativity as we age. They see the world as full of possibilities, not yet bound by conventional thinking.
Sir Ken’s point, and one I was reminded of as I listened to our Year 1 students, is that creativity isn’t something that only a few people possess. It’s something we’re all born with, but it can be stifled if not nurtured. The children’s unbounded thinking about what being a principal could look like—from reversing mufti and school uniforms to ingenious ways of adapting the curriculum to engage students’ learning with carefully curated fun activities—was a testament to their ability to dream big, without limitation.
At Masada, we believe in fostering this creativity while grounding it in kindness, resilience, and a deep respect for learning. These speeches were a refreshing reminder of how we can keep pushing the boundaries of what education can look like—whether it’s through innovative ideas on curriculum, or simply learning to see the world through fresh eyes.
The children’s ideas were not just whimsical; they made me reflect on how I can improve my own role. From marshmallow maths to a reverse timetable, there’s plenty of room for creativity in education. And who knows—perhaps some of these wonderful suggestions will find their way into our reality.
Thank you, Year 1, for reminding us all that the possibilities are endless when we think outside the box.
Warm regards,
Raquel Charet College Principal
From the Executive Team
Head of Learning & Teaching Y7-12
Year 12 Congratulations to our Year 12 students who have enjoyed their final weeks at the College. We have been so impressed with their commitment to their studies since they completed their Trial Examinations and as they prepare so diligently for their final HSC exams that commence in Week 1 of Term 4.
Today we celebrated their achievements at our Year 12 Valedictory to officially mark the conclusion of their time at Masada. It was a beautiful event where we could feel the pride in the room from every student and their families who have supported them through their educational journey. An occasion of deep pride and joy for all they have overcome and achieved to reach this point in their lives with the excitement of future study and work awaiting them. Our celebrations continue this evening for their Graduation Evening.
We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge how grateful we are to every student for their contributions to Masada College as they enjoy holding their memoires dear at this nostalgic time. We wish our Year 12’s all the very best for their examinations and bright futures ahead of them.
Year 11 Examinations Congratulations to our Year 11 students for completing their Year 11 examinations and for all of their dedicated efforts to complete their preliminary year. We wish them well for their continued study into their HSC year.
Excursion and incursions this term! It has been another vibrant and exciting term coming to a close at Masada College. Thank you to our students, parents and staff who have contributed to all of the wonderful things that have made this term so memorable. We invite you to enjoy some of the highlights from the term in the words of our students who made the experiences come to life. Thank you to all the students who have taken the time to write this article for us to enjoy.
Pathways Camp - Aidan Bethlehem, Year 8 4 nights and 5 action-packed days is what the Year 8 and 9 Pathways Camp consisted of! There were activities that we did for complete fun as well as activities to help us enhance our Jewish identity. My highlight of the camp was free time in the cabins with my mates making core memories that will last forever. Activities challenged us to collaborate and unlocked our critical and creative thinking skills and were so memorable! Thank you to the madrichim, our year patrons and staff for our amazing camp experience.
Pathways Camp - Gaby Toynton, Year 8 This was my first year having a Pathways Camp, and it did not disappoint! Pathways is a camp where we build a closer relationship with our peers and gain a deep connection to Judaism. The camp was five days and we took part in a variety of fun activities. My favorite activity was ‘Messi’, where we got to throw paint and shaving cream at each other! It was so much fun! This camp also allowed me to form close friendships with classmates I hadn’t spoken to before, boosting my confidence and helping me feel more comfortable working in groups with new faces. Thank you to all the teachers who made this incredible experience possible for both Year 8 and Year 9 students.
Pathways Camp - Evelina Reingardt, Year 8 The year 8-9 pathways camp was the first camp that I have experienced at Masada, and it was the best school camp that I have ever been to! During this time, everyone engaged in activities such as the messy activity, shabbat, family group time, and many other events that connected us to our Jewish identity. The purpose of the pathways camp was to socialise and to obtain a stronger connection to Judaism. The activity that I most enjoyed was the messy activity where everyone was enjoying themselves by running around and getting each other dirty! I also enjoyed the family group time as I got to communicate and collaborate with peers that I usually didn’t talk to, as well as getting to know the madrichim. Some skills that the pathways 2024 camp let me develop is communicating with others more frequently, as well as using critical thinking skills and collaborating with groups. I would like to thank the Jewish Life team for allowing us to enjoy this memorable experience.
Pathway Camp – Ena Liu, Year 9 We spent 5 days with our year group at the camp and it was a memorable journey. As a non-Jewish student who had never experienced Shabbat, I found the 25 hours starting on Friday night exciting and significant. I enjoyed the time with my friends, and there were lots of fun memories left. I learned to be communicative and independent through any challenges. I want to thank all the madrichim and the teachers, who helped us during camp, for their patience and support. I miss the time we had at the camp.
Pathways Camp - Maxwell Zhou, Year 9 Pathways camp was an absolutely amazing and memorable experience for me! Especially as a non-Jewish student, it was a great opportunity for me to experience and enjoy Shabbat with all my friends. I found that it was pretty challenging to live without my phone, electricity or any other technology. It was a totally new experience for me, but it also gave me lots of time that I could actually spend with my friends. Throughout the camp, I appreciated all the teachers and staff who planned the whole event for us and gave us the utmost care. They always put their heart into everything they planned. They brought it to another level! Thank you!
Pathways Camp - Sasha Korchemnaia, Year 11 Pathways is one of my favourite parts of the school year!!! — this is what I’ve been hearing from students who have participated in the school camp. I feel like many people would agree that the most special part of the camp is Shabbos and specifically the ‘Tish’. The rituals students experience with madrichim and teachers during that very special time of the week light up mysterious “Jewish Identity” which means something unique for each person. Every camp I’ve been to has had its own impact on me. This time I enjoyed every moment, because it was the last Pathways camp for me as a student and it really stood out to me that my classmates have changed. Many thoughtful conversations opened new aspects of every person and made me realise how many details we miss during school life. Pathways definitely made my grade closer with the grade above and below, as well as this time it was so warming to see non-jewish students participating in activities. Those connections really matter to me and I hope everyone enjoyed that meaningful experience as much as I did. Pathways Camp - Arin Ginsberg, Year 12 Knowing this was our last camp, we knew we had to make the most of it. Throughout our time on camp, we took part in many educational activities surrounding Judaism and our connection to Israel. We socialised, played full soccer games, spent time with our madrachim and even watched a very entertaining magic show! Throughout camp, I really enjoyed taking the opportunity to strengthen the bonds with my classmates, cherishing these moments as I hope to continue these friendships with my peers beyond school. Pathways camp enabled us to strengthen our own independence where we were required to be punctual for all activities and maintain a schedule. We also developed our communication skills through various interactive activities such as the ‘love game’ while strengthening our bonds with peers. On behalf of the year 12 class, I would like to thank Ms Gottlieb, Ms Kirkpatrick, Mr Pellet, and all the Madrachim who made our camp experience so special.
Year 7/8 Hebrew Day - Maya Wakil, Year 7 The Hebrew Day was a great experience for me! The many diverse and numerous activities were thrilling and I enjoyed many. I also really enjoyed venturing to Chabad. This made it more exciting and made it feel different to the usual school days. I loved the activities where we had to work as a team to complete the challenge. This challenged our abilities to work collaboratively and if someone was not participating, it gave them a boost to experience and enjoy the task at hand. This is an extremely important skill to obtain and can sometimes be difficult or challenging but Hebrew day encouraged many students to go out of their comfort zone! I could really tell how much effort the Hebrew teachers put in this day. Lots of them used up their spare time to work towards this event and make sure it went smoothly. I could see how all the exciting activities would’ve taken many hours of planning and executing and I am extremely grateful for all who made an effort towards having a successful meaningful Hebrew day! Thank you.
Year 7/8 Chinese Day - Charlie Qian, Year 8 During Chinese Day, a variety of events took place, which reflected traditional Chinese culture and traditions. For example, we attempted calligraphy with teacher’s guidance, it represented cultural heritage and tradition and also embodies great precision and patience. One of the most intriguing experiences was the Bajiquan that indicates power and traditional Chinese martial Arts Philosophy. The entire day was enjoyable and joyful, especially the atmosphere of learning and attempting new skills in traditional Chinese culture. One of the challenging activities was making the bracelet. My skill of critical thinking developed through several events that required the ability of solving problems independently, while my skill of communication was also developed, as when we were facing setbacks that we can’t solve, communicating and seeking help is normally the best solution. Apart from that, the events also caught our attention on how crucial collaboration is through activities that require cooperating with friends. I would like to say thank you to Mr Liang and the Chinese teachers for organising the event.
Year 7/8 Chinese Day - Howie Zhang, Year 8 During Chinese day, we did a variety of activities that we enjoyed very much. We did the bracelet, traditional Chinese Ink painting, and traditional Chinese martial art (Bajiquan) activities. Chinese Day taught us numerous things, the most important value I learned was critical and creative thinking, communication, and collaboration. I would really like to thank our teachers who made this day happen. Moreover I would like to thank every teacher that participated in this event and all my friends' collaboration.
Year 9/10 Chinese Excursion - Ava Liu, Year 9 We went to a venue that had a range of different escape rooms that we could do. The first escape room we played was called “The Legend of the sword", based off of the tale of King Arthur and Merlin and two groups worked together in separate rooms to solve the mystery, and unlock the door towards the exit. The second escape room was an outdoor one where we had to walk throughout various parts of the city and figure out mysteries and locate things. After all groups reunited, we took the light rail to Chinatown to have some free time. I really enjoyed doing the first escape room as it wasn’t super hard but was still challenging to do. It was fun to work together with the other group without being able to come to physical contact. I found the outdoor activity quite challenging as it was considerably harder than the first one. These activities allowed me to develop problem solving skills combined with teamwork and cooperation which I believe is a significant skill in life to be able to possess. I would like to thank Ms Feng and Ms Niu for supervising us, the bus driver, and everybody else who made it possible for us to have this amazing experience.
Project Infinity Recycled Runway - Jade Sherman, Year 7 Project Infinity was incredibly fun and entertaining and is part of Masada’s interdisciplinary, collaborative and personalised learning program. This term, Year 7 participated in a fun project known as Project Infinity, or another name for it: Recycled Runway. Recycled Runway was all about upcycling old clothes and materials into interesting, beautiful outfits. We were all put into groups and started our creative journey. Each group had a different theme and we designed outfits that were stylish, trendy, and fun. My group’s theme was urban streetwear. Another group’s theme was their favorite 2010 characters and one of them dressed up as Edna from the Incredibles! Our teachers made the process fun and engaging. We got to go at our own pace and in the end, we all did a runway and strutted on the catwalk. We learned so many new skills from Recycled Runway. Some great examples are hand-sewing, teamwork, collaboration, and machine- sewing! I am so happy and grateful to have taken part in this project.
Year 9/10 Hebrew Excursion - Jade Kaye, Year 9 For the Year 9/10 Hebrew Excursion we went to the RSPCA. The Hebrew Year 9 class explored how to talk about their favorite animals in Hebrew, as well as how to look after them. We learnt about how to be a good animal advocate and to make a dog feel comfortable with you. We were taught what to say to the dogs or cats breeder or what to search up. We got to see the kittens, cats and dogs. I enjoyed making the tug of war toy for the dogs and the kitten ball for the kittens/cats to eat or play with, as well as admiring the big fluffy black cat whose name was Bartholomew. I would like to thank Morah Halevi and Morah Shai for organising this amazing day out that was so much fun. It was awesome. We all loved it so much!! :) 🐶
Year 10 Road Safety Excursion - Romi Rogow, Year 10 Last term, Year 10 had the amazing experience to learn about road safety. We got to learn and understand the dangers of the road and the consequences of not following the rules and regulations. Whilst it was confronting to watch, I enjoyed seeing the visual presentation of a group of teenagers who had been drinking and were not wearing their seatbelt. Whilst this experience gave me a better understanding and will make me cautious for the future, it was challenging to see and hear about the horrific accidents that people face daily and the results caused by these accidents. This experience made me aware and is something I will take on and with me when driving on the road. It was important to learn that not only is my life in danger but all other drivers on the road. For the future I will always make sure my passengers and myself are safe before driving. Thank you to the PDHPE teachers for giving us this experience and for all the other teachers that went with us and played a role for this day to happen.
Visual Art/ Design and Technology Exhibition and HSC Showcase - Alex Silver, Year 12 My Visual Art major work titled ‘The Patient Reclamation’ was a year-long process in which I developed my artmaking skills and produced a complete collection of ceramic vessels. Over the course of the year, I experimented with forms, clays and glazes to find the best physical representation of my ideas which explore the dynamic relationship between humanity and nature. I enjoyed the entire process of the major work itself and in particular, I enjoyed the independent process of my ark making as well as the moment where I was finally able to see my full collection set up for exhibition. Throughout the process I faced many challenges imposed by the limits of my materials and HSC guidelines. To overcome these challenges I discussed with my experienced teachers and found creative solutions to achieve the desired outcome. Additionally, the major work has given me a newfound appreciation for art and the sheer amount of effort that goes into something seemingly simple. From my own artwork to those of my peers, I have been able to see for myself how much goes on behind the scenes. I have also been able to develop a stronger sense of independence from having to self-manage my major work. Finally, I’d like to extend my gratitude to Ms Rosen, Ms Godley and Mr Lungas who guided me through the process and helped me to become a far better artist.
Visual Art/ Design and Technology Exhibition and HSC Showcase - Sasha Korchemnaia, Year 11 The absolutely amazing Visual Arts and Design and Technology Exhibition took place on Tuesday, 27th of August, presenting the results of hard work of students in those subjects. Personally, I found everything very interesting, especially the Year 12 works in Art and DAT. I was also very proud of my work that I had on display. It was a very inspirational experience for me as a student who is planning to take DAT as one of my subjects in Year 12 as well as it has made me realise how many projects are happening at our school. The exhibition definitely opened new design suggestions and trends which I may have not thought of before as I embark on my work in Year 12. I would like to thank Mrs Steel, Tom Dolan, Dr Yau and all other staff members who helped us and worked really hard to be inclusive and make all the projects happen.
Mrs Jennifer Grace Head of Learning & Teaching, Y7-12
Jewish Life Across the College
As Term 3 comes to a close, our students across the school have had the privilege of participating in a variety of enriching experiences in Jewish Life. We are also excited to welcome Ori Lewin and Rafi Franklin, who have joined the Masada College team as JLED Madrichim for the remainder of the year.
In this role, they will guide and support our students in Jewish learning and experiential activities, primarily focusing on Years 7-12, while also contributing to the Junior School during camp and other events. Ori and Rafi are already well known and much-loved by the students. We look forward to seeing their impact and wish them much success!
Wishing everyone a Shana Tova Umetukah! May this year be extra sweet, with prayers for the swift return of the hostages and peace in our beloved Israel.
Year 10 Israel Advocacy Pilot Program launch During the second half of Term 3, Year 10 students participated in a new course focused on the Talmudic concept of Makhloket L’Shem Shamayim—Arguments for the Sake of Heaven. As Rabbi Jonathan Sacks explains, this idea encourages respectful and truth-seeking conversations. The program aimed to equip students with the skills to handle complex challenges, particularly in discussions about Israel, with nuance and empathy.
Throughout the course, students gained confidence and a deeper understanding of Israel, learning how to articulate their opinions with clarity. They also heard from a number of guest speakers, including Charlotte Korchak from StandWithUs, who covered topics like the duelling narratives, the Jewish approach to disagreement, and the impact of non-verbal communication. The program will continue into Term 4, building on the skills and knowledge gained so far.
‘I have learned to stay strong with my beliefs but also be more inclusive of others narratives and perspectives’.
‘Having different views to somebody else does not mean you can not maintain a relationship’.
‘Friends are able to have disputes and still be friends when its purpose is to find the truth.’
Talk with Eylon Levy Our High School students, joined together with students from Moriah College and BJE to hear from Eylon Levy, renowned journalist and one of Israel's most internationally recognised commentators and advocates. Eylon inspired our students to be proud advocates for Israel and their Judaism and to continue to fight for the release of the hostages. He shared many insights into the current conflict with Hamas. Thank you to JNF Australia and Moriah College for giving us the opportunity to hear from Eylon.
Talk with Olympians Nova Peris OAM and Israeli Epee Fencer Yuval Freilich Years 5 and 6, along with the high school students, were privileged to hear from Olympians Nova Peris and Yuval. Yuval shared his inspiring journey representing Israel, including challenges he faced competing in Qatar. His family’s deep connection to the College added special meaning to his visit.
Nova Peris, the first Indigenous Australian to win an Olympic gold medal, spoke passionately about the importance of self-identity and pride in one’s heritage, echoing core Masada values.We are grateful to both athletes for engaging with our students and reinforcing themes of resilience and community support.It was also an opportunity for the Masada Community to thank Nova Peris in person for her support of the Jewish community and Israel.
‘You made me change many thoughts and inspired me about what I will do in the future. Before seeing you guys, I thought all the people who competed in the Olympics were really talented and had equipment that were built for you guys, but after I heard your stories, I found out I just have to work hard, self-discipline and know what works for me’- Max Liu
‘My dream is to be an AFL player for the Sydney Swans and they inspired me to think positively about myself, to not listen to people that say you can't do it and most of all to train hard and practice. They have also taught me that when I'm competing in anything, I think of a higher cause as to why I need to win, or why I need to get in. They have also taught me to be proud of who I am.’- Avigail Kedmi-Gencher
Pathways reunion Shabbaton The Pathways Camp Reunion was so much fun!
First, we started with an activity about Rosh Hashanah - dipping apples in the honey and learning about tashlich
Then we had an amazing lunch break with cool snacks and activities
Afterwards, we had a Tisch and Ruach
The kids had an amazing time! - Rafi and Ori
Rosh Hashanah celebrations Our Junior School, led by the JLED team, will hold a special assembly on Thursday to mark Rosh Hashanah, while the High School will participate in a series of experiential activities throughout the week to celebrate the holiday. Students also prepared Rosh Hashana cards for residents from the Montefiore home and participated in a fundraiser for the children in Otef Aza (South of Israel) affected by the ongoing conflict.
Double the Joy: Celebrating Adar at Our School As we welcome the two Adars this month, we're embracing the tradition of 'Mishenichnas Adar marbin b'simchah, when Adar comes we increase in our joy’ by doubling our joy here at Masada. From Crazy Hat and Socks Day across the school to the lively dances and refreshing ice blocks in the Junior School, there's been lots of reasons to celebrate!
Shterny Dadon College Head of Jewish Life ELC-Y12
Masada Cottage
Rosh Hashana in the Green Room
The Green Room has been very excited preparing for the upcoming Chagim of Rosh Hashanah! The children have been working very hard to prepare their different crafts; bee hives, threading apples, and decorating special challah covers to take home. We have even incorporated the motif of the apples into some of our learning experiences! The class has especially enjoyed having Rabbi Lewin visit each morning to blow the shofar. Achiya even brought a shofar from home to show us, a very special item to share with the class.
Students from Kindy to Year 6 participated in a range of Moon Festival celebration activities. They explored the fairy tale associated with the festival, learned the legend of mooncakes, and enjoyed hands-on crafts, such as colouring, jigsaw puzzles, and lantern-making. The activities were well-received, and the students, fully immersed in Chinese culture, gained a deeper appreciation for its rich traditions and stories.
On Friday, 13 September, Maya Gazi proudly represented Masada College at Parliament House for the Bear Pit public speaking competition. Her topic, "How to Be a Good Friend," was delivered with remarkable clarity and confidence. Maya spoke beautifully, showcasing her poise and communication skills. Well done, Maya!
Year 1 Visit Adamara Farm
Year 1 recently enjoyed an exciting excursion to Adamara Farm, where they had a hands-on experience learning about sustainability. The students participated in a workshop focused on reducing, reusing, and recycling, where they creatively made kites from recycled materials. They also toured the farm, where they smelt, tasted and picked different fruits and vegetables. This excursion tied in perfectly with our HSIE unit for the term, reinforcing important lessons about caring for the environment.
This week our Year 5 and 6 students had an Amazing presentation with Rowena from Amazing me, she explained to the students about how their bodies will grow and change in the next few years. This reinforced the important message that each individual is unique, valued and Amazing.
Week 8 Merit Award Winners
Congratulations to the exceptional individuals who have been recognised as recipients of the Week 8 Merit Awards!
Kindy Shabbat Experience
Our Kindergarten students spent this term learning all about the days of creation as well as Shabbat. As a culmination of our unit, parents and grandparents were invited to join the students for a wonderful Shabbat Experience. They sang beautifully, answered questions and demonstrated all of our special Shabbat traditions like lighting candles, drinking grape juice and eating challah. Students also had the opportunity to show off their amazing craft all about the days of creation and to make some delicious challah. Kol Hakavod Kindergarten!
After much anticipation, lots of preparation and loads of excitement, our Year 1 students received their very own new siddurim at our annual Siddur Presentation. Students presented ideas and showcased their learning connected to the month of Elul and the concept of Ani L’Dodi V’Dodi Li. They explained the themes of teshuva, tzedakah and tefillah and also recited the tefillot that they have learnt. Students explained the meaning and origins of the names given to them when they were born and even got to see Rabbi Lewin’s very own siddur that he has used for over 30 years. The students spoke with such confidence and brought their parents and teachers so much joy and nachas (pride). Kol HaKavod to them all and may their new siddurim keep them connected to Torah and HaShem for many years to come!
Masada Junior School Debating Team competed against six other IPSHA schools at Tara Anglican School for Girls at Parramatta on Tuesday 17th September. The students had prepared excellent debates and rebuts. It was amazing to see how much the team has improved this year. They have now finished their regular debates against other schools and they should be congratulated on their efforts.
Farewell Mrs Helliwell & Mrs Morgan
Farewell and Congratulations!
As we approach the end of Term 3, we bid farewell to Mrs. Bonnie Morgan and Mrs. Lauren Heliwell, who will both commence maternity leave. We congratulate them both as they prepare to welcome their new arrivals and embark on this exciting chapter of their lives.
Welcome, Ms. Buzo!
We are delighted to welcome Ms. Buzo to Masada as the new Year 5 class teacher. Ms. Buzo brings a wealth of teaching experience, with a special interest in Drama. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to her as she joins our school community.
Public Speaking and Read Aloud Competition
We were fortunate to complete our Read Aloud and Public Speaking competitions over the past few weeks. The winners from each class in the Read Aloud competition performed their pieces at our Week 9 assembly. The Public Speaking finals took place over a day and were enjoyed by all.
Participants in the 2024 competition left us in awe and even some laughter with their prepared speeches and wowed us with their ability to tackle impromptu topics with grace and confidence.
Congratulations to the winners and all participants for a memorable and inspiring event.
2024 Class Read Aloud Winners
Yr K- Blake Yr 1- Lily Yr 2- Ross Yr 3- Ava and Raphael Yr 4- Harlow Yr 5- Mikayla, Ariel and Moshe Yr 6- Levi
2024 Public Speaking Stage Winners
Stage 1: Ross G Stage 2: Sam F Stage 3: Evan S
Senior School
Silver Duke of Edinburgh Hike
On Sunday morning, 17 Silver Duke of Ed students eagerly clambered onto the bus, their heavy bags squished between every giddy individual. We began our journey at Storey Park in Asquith and embarked on a 15km hike, up and down rocky hills, to Crosslands Reserve. The walk was challenging; however, all members of our team prevailed and maintained their enthusiasm throughout the hike. We set up camp and began what would be an unforgettable five-day experience. We canoed, having concerts and push-up competitions on the water; we cracked whips, made fires and dampers, and practised our adventurer skills. By the third day, we had been on a 6km hike to Lyre Bird Cave and tested the group with our difficult riddles, collecting firewood on our way back. We folded our tents, packed our clothes and remaining snacks into our hiking packs, and began ascending the infamous Heartbreak Hill, a mountain we were all unsure we could tackle. However, we conquered the challenge by singing songs and encouraging our team members, and we were rewarded with an incredible view of the river and the reserve. We arrived at our final campground and watched the sunset as a whole group, reminiscing about the trip we had just completed. We played mafia and sang songs, making our final dinners in the cooking circle. By the morning, we walked all the way down the gully and all the way back up to Cowan Station. We had our final yarn, a group activity where everyone shared how they were feeling and their highlights for the day. Silver Duke of Ed was an incredible experience, and we strengthened our relationships, calf muscles, and outdoor abilities. Thank you so much to Jack and Georgia, the staff at Black Diamond Adventures, for joining us on our journey and to Miss K and Dr Yau, who wouldn't be possible without the journey.
This week, Year 9 had the pleasure of welcoming Mr Neville Kaye, a talented musician, songwriter, composer, and music teacher. Our focus this term has been on the theme of music, and the students were thrilled to engage with Neville, who shared his incredible musical journey. They had the unique opportunity to interview him, asking insightful questions about his inspirations, musical styles, and favorite artists. We were all treated to some of his compositions, including a song that won the prestigious Australian Independent Music Awards' Best Song of 2022.
To conclude this inspiring session, we joined Neville in singing two heartfelt Israeli songs that resonate with hope for a brighter future—a fitting message for these challenging times.
