From Year 9
This week, the Year 9 students embarked on an unforgettable four-day educational adventure to Canberra! They immersed themselves in the history, politics, and culture of our nation’s capital, aligned with the Year 9 Humanities studies. This incredible journey not only broadened their knowledge and understanding of Australia’s national identity but also strengthened friendships, resilience and self-discovery. The students were divided into activity groups and had an exciting daily program packed with fun, educational activities to explore the wonders of Canberra!
With excitement buzzing in the air, the Year 9 cohort set off bright and early on Tuesday morning, ready for an enriching experience. We had a lunch stop in Holbrook to explore the historic submarine, providing a fascinating glimpse into Australia’s naval history, before heading back on the road to the Capital Airport Motel, our accommodation for the next three nights.
The students and staff took a deep dive into Australian history with a visit to the Australian War Memorial, where we participated in the ‘We Will Remember Them’ program. This program enabled the students to explore the reasons for continued commemoration of the service and sacrifice of Australian servicemen and women. We had the opportunity to explore personal stories from several different conflicts and operations. An important time of reflection for us, understanding the significance of Anzac Day and Remembrance Day in our country.
Upon arrival at Parliament House, the students were welcomed with refreshments in the Queen’s Terrace Gallery, where they were graciously greeted by Senator Lisa Darmanin. As an alumna of St Aloysius College, Senator Darmanin was thrilled to connect with our students. The students demonstrated curiosity, asking a variety of questions as Senator Darmanin shared invaluable insights into the legislative process. A highlight of the program was exploring Parliament House through a guided tour, where students engaged in an informative and interactive experience, gaining firsthand insight into Australia’s political processes.
The students were taken to soundproof galleries above the chambers where they were able to watch parliament, ask questions and learn about parliamentary procedure. Through a one-hour Parliamentary Education Program, our students participated in role-play scenarios acting as parliamentarians and parliamentary officials.
Another checkpoint visit on our journey was to the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, where the Year 9 students participated in the ‘Our Voice Our Choice’ program. This was a fantastic experience for the students as they were able to explore the ways people are heard in a democracy, both through an interactive activity and taking on the role of politicians in an historic debate re-enactment. We also had an inspiring visit to the Electoral Education Centre as this was a fun and interactive way to learn about Australia’s electoral system, exploring the key concepts of representation, enrolment and voting, and the investigation into how people are elected to the House of Representatives.
The Mt Ainslie Lookout night lights visit was amazing! From the viewpoint standing above the Australian War Memorial, we were able to see all the national institutions in the Parliamentary Triangle, gaining valuable insight into their relationship to each other and a great perspective of the National Capital.
Our itinerary included an exciting exploration of sport, science, and the arts, offering a dynamic blend of experiences. Through a guided tour, we drove around Canberra’s diplomatic Embassies and High Commissions, showcasing Australia’s global connections. The Year 9 students and staff then had a unique opportunity to visit the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), discovering where Australia’s sporting champions are created and insight into the life of elite athletes. Additionally, they had the privilege of observing the Australian Gymnastics Team in a training session, an experience that was both enlightening and exhilarating. The Sportex visit was outstanding as the students stepped into a world of interactive sports, including basketball, virtual downhill skiing, rock climbing, football penalty shootouts and more!
Two other exciting checkpoint visits on our journey was the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) and Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre. The exploration of Australia’s rich artistic heritage sparked inspiration amongst our students, admiring works from renowned artists including Jackson Pollock and Emily Kame Kngwarreye. Questacon provided an enriching experience for our students which strengthened their association with science, technology, engineering and maths.
Our final day saw an early start as we said goodbye to Canberra! With a wealth of knowledge, memories and a deeper appreciation of Australia’s heritage, our students returned home. A special thank you to all the staff that supported our students on this camp, including Dylan Peters, Abbey Luke, Theresa Daunt, Marie-Claire Anastasiadis, Celina Berzins, Elisa Litvin, Andrea Barr, Lachlan Coburn, Elijah Armato, Rita Stangherlin and Declan Gall. To the brilliant bus drivers and staff at the Capital Airport Motel, a big thank you from St Aloysius College. Finally, to our fantastic Year 9 cohort, thank you for your enthusiasm, curiosity and exemplary conduct throughout the trip, it was remarkable.
We look forward to more enriching adventures in the years to come!
Emma Turner
Year 9 Leader
Student Reflections
It’s been a pleasure for us Year 9s to have the chance to go on a trip to Canberra. We went to lots of fun places like the AIS, Parliament, the War Memorial, Questacon and more. These placed were lots of fun to go to and great learning experiences for the whole cohort. My favourite place we visited was the National Gallery of Australia because we got to look at beautiful artworks.
Enid Burke, 9A
This week the Year 9s has had the pleasure of going on a trip to Canberra. I am extremely delighted that I have had the experience to visit Canberra and see all the buildings, like Parliament House. In Parliament we saw the leaders have a vote and we also participated in a role-play experience. My favourite part of Canberra was getting to explore the AIS. We saw athletes that have won Olympic medals and got to see them train. Overall, this trip was a great experience.
Dominique Salama Gutierrez, 9B
Our trip to Canberra has been a fantastic experience! I liked the AIS, because I was able to see facilities that some Olympic medallists have used and completed their training in. The accommodation we stayed in was a lovely place, offering great food for breakfast and dinner. Overall, this opportunity was lots of fun!
Evie Schultheiss, 9E
This week, the Year 9 cohort had the opportunity to attend the 2025 Canberra trip. Two days of activities allowed us to not only explore Canberra and try new experiences alongside our friends but also gave us insight into key events that occur in our nation’s capital city. We investigated how Parliament influences our society, and the processes involved. Aside from these learning experiences, my favourite part of the trip was visiting the viewpoint at Mount Ainslie to watch the sunset over the city.
Noah Richardson Buchanan, 9C
Canberra has been a wonderful experience. I have hung out with friends, learnt a bunch of new things, and visited really cool places. A highlight for me was Mount Ainslie lookout, the view was amazing, and I could see Parliament House. Overall, this was a fantastic opportunity, and I would happily come back.
Ahmed Gaddoura, 9A
I have had great fun adventuring through Canberra to explore the endless opportunities such as the Australian Institute of Sport, the Australian War Memorial, Parliament, and lots more great activities. I have learnt a lot about our Australian soldiers, war and political events.
Wyatt Wilson, 9C