Last week, our first group of students undertaking the Duke of Edinburgh successfully completed their Practice Journey hike. 20 Year 9 students headed to Kilcunda and trekked 9km towards Wonthaggi. The weather there reached a sweltering 36 degrees! Within the Duke program, the students know to expect the unexpected and everyone adapted by carrying smaller backpacks on the hike and utilised the camp kitchen at Newhaven instead of the traditional trangias.

Following a night of chatting and games, the next morning they ventured to Cape Woolamai and completed the circuit walk, where they experienced the coastal breeze. This hike delivered an abundance of wildlife and perfect scenery – a welcome contrast to Day 1. Reflecting on the changing conditions on the journey, Zara S noted, “Across the two days we all had to be very flexible and accommodating due to the extreme weather conditions. Even though at times it felt very challenging, I am very happy and proud of what we all achieved.”

Congratulations to all students involved and our sincere appreciation goes to the dedicated teachers who coordinated, supervised and completed the hike alongside them.