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Saint Ignatius College Geelong
Saint Ignatius College Geelong
Saint Ignatius College Geelong
Article by Deb Hodge | Year 7 Coordinator
From the moment our Year 7 students eagerly boarded the buses on Monday, April 28, there was a strong sense that something special was beginning—not just a camp, but a journey into community, connection, and belonging. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Anglesea, the camp offered more than outdoor adventure; it became a space where new friendships were formed, confidence grew, and every student found their place within the St Ignatius family.
Upon arrival, students explored the campsite, settled into their bunk rooms, and shared in the excitement of discovering their new environment—especially locating the dining room. Surrounded by bushland and the distant sound of waves, this setting created the perfect atmosphere for building trust, taking on challenges together, and supporting one another.
Each activity offered on camp —from the Vertical Climb to the Giant Swing and Mountain biking— was more than a personal test; it was an opportunity to cheer each other on, offer a hand when someone hesitated, and celebrate together no matter the outcome. Students stepped outside their comfort zones not alone, but uplifted by a group that believed in them. It wasn’t about being the fastest or climbing the highest; it was about showing up for each other, being brave together, and knowing you belonged.
A highlight of the camp was the visit from Mr. Exton and our senior student leaders on the second night. Their heartfelt stories of their own Year 7 beginnings reminded us all of how far one can come with support, gratitude, and participation. Their message—that every student has a place, a role, and a contribution to make—was powerful and uplifting. They warmly welcomed our newest students into the wider College community and reminded them that help and friendship are always close at hand.
Evening games, a movie, and shared meals brought even more opportunities to connect and create lasting memories. Despite the brisk nights, a buzz radiated from the friendships being formed as students learnt more about each other in their cohort and opened themselves up to discover who their peers actually are.
As camp drew to a close on Day 3, it was clear that our students had not only taken part in activities but had also embraced the deeper meaning of the experience. They showed kindness, respect, and a readiness to include others—living out our camp theme of Dream. Discover. Do. - in every way.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the staff who made this experience possible, especially Ms. Anderton (Assistant YLC) and Ms Baker for their diligent organisation and support, and Ms. Falconer and Ms. Edmonds for their attentive care as First-Aid officers. Your dedication and compassion created the conditions for our students to thrive. Special thanks also to Mr. Exton, Ms. Brown, and Ms. Ahearn for spending time with us and welcoming Year 7s into the heart of our school.
As we return back to the routines of daily school life, we carry with us the Ignatian spirit of courage, hope, and compassion that was so alive at camp. Thank you to our families for your support, and to our wonderful Year 7s—you reminded us all what it means to truly connect and be, as St Ignatius said, “men and women for others”.
Deb Hodge | Year 7 Coordinator
Feature
Events
Our News // 09 May 2025
Article by Deb Hodge | Year 7 Coordinator
From the moment our Year 7 students eagerly boarded the buses on Monday, April 28, there was a strong sense that something special was beginning—not just a camp, but a journey into community, connection, and belonging. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Anglesea, the camp offered more than outdoor adventure; it became a space where new friendships were formed, confidence grew, and every student found their place within the St Ignatius family.
Upon arrival, students explored the campsite, settled into their bunk rooms, and shared in the excitement of discovering their new environment—especially locating the dining room. Surrounded by bushland and the distant sound of waves, this setting created the perfect atmosphere for building trust, taking on challenges together, and supporting one another.
Each activity offered on camp —from the Vertical Climb to the Giant Swing and Mountain biking— was more than a personal test; it was an opportunity to cheer each other on, offer a hand when someone hesitated, and celebrate together no matter the outcome. Students stepped outside their comfort zones not alone, but uplifted by a group that believed in them. It wasn’t about being the fastest or climbing the highest; it was about showing up for each other, being brave together, and knowing you belonged.
A highlight of the camp was the visit from Mr. Exton and our senior student leaders on the second night. Their heartfelt stories of their own Year 7 beginnings reminded us all of how far one can come with support, gratitude, and participation. Their message—that every student has a place, a role, and a contribution to make—was powerful and uplifting. They warmly welcomed our newest students into the wider College community and reminded them that help and friendship are always close at hand.
Evening games, a movie, and shared meals brought even more opportunities to connect and create lasting memories. Despite the brisk nights, a buzz radiated from the friendships being formed as students learnt more about each other in their cohort and opened themselves up to discover who their peers actually are.
As camp drew to a close on Day 3, it was clear that our students had not only taken part in activities but had also embraced the deeper meaning of the experience. They showed kindness, respect, and a readiness to include others—living out our camp theme of Dream. Discover. Do. - in every way.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the staff who made this experience possible, especially Ms. Anderton (Assistant YLC) and Ms Baker for their diligent organisation and support, and Ms. Falconer and Ms. Edmonds for their attentive care as First-Aid officers. Your dedication and compassion created the conditions for our students to thrive. Special thanks also to Mr. Exton, Ms. Brown, and Ms. Ahearn for spending time with us and welcoming Year 7s into the heart of our school.
As we return back to the routines of daily school life, we carry with us the Ignatian spirit of courage, hope, and compassion that was so alive at camp. Thank you to our families for your support, and to our wonderful Year 7s—you reminded us all what it means to truly connect and be, as St Ignatius said, “men and women for others”.
Deb Hodge | Year 7 Coordinator
