On 31 July the first post-COVID Snow Trip set off for Canberra with 80 excited students and 8 dedicated staff on board.

After the usual exciting six-hour bus trip, we arrived at Gold Creek for dinner and then headed off to Questacon.  Here students got to experience hands-on the many amazing Scientific facts and experiments housed there before heading back to the motel for a well-earned rest.

The next day the group headed to the War Memorial, Museum of Democracy and Parliament House, where they met with the local member David Gillespie before taking part in a tour through the various sections of the building.  After a quick tour of the Embassies, it was time to head to Cooma.

Once kitted up, students were ready to tackle the slopes.  The day began with a 5:30 am wake up call, a quick brekky and a pep talk from Mr Carney.  When the students arrived at Smiggins they were treated to an absolutely cracking day of clear skies and amazing conditions.  Much adventure was had and we were all really proud of the positive attitude shown by all as many attempted skiing for the very first time.

Unfortunately, the second day of skiing saw deteriorating conditions.  Many choose to head over to Blue Cow on the underground train and enjoy a hot chocolate, chips and gravy at the top of the mountain.  Those who stayed endured challenging conditions to persevere with another day on the slopes.  Sadly, at around lunchtime we were ordered off the mountain as the blizzard like conditions intensified.

That evening the police gave the instruction to not head up the mountain for the final day of skiing.  After some brainstorming from our dedicated staff, we came up with an alternative plan and the final day was spent at the movies in Canberra and shopping.

I would like to congratulate Year 9 for their positive attitude and the flexibility they showed when things did not go according to the schedule.  Overall they learned the importance of stepping outside their comfort zone… to find the magic.

Thank you so much to Mr Hanlon, Mr Laurent, Mr Hobbes, Mrs Laurie, Ms Campbell- Ellis, Mrs Huett… and of course the amazing Mr Carney for making this trip happen.  I really appreciate the amount of time and commitment associated with this trip.

Marian Parvin
Wellbeing Mentor