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Saint Ignatius College Geelong
Saint Ignatius College Geelong
Saint Ignatius College Geelong
Article by Deb Hodge | Head of Year 7
What an amazing camp experience we had in Anglesea last week for our Year 7 cohort! It felt like Summer, there were plenty of shorts worn and who would have thought we’d need sunscreen in late April/early May. Canoes capsizing didn’t matter as much when you could dry out in the 26 degree weather. We were so blessed!
From the beginning when students eagerly boarded the buses on Monday, April 27, there was a an exciting vibe that something special was ahead of us ~ not just a camp, but a journey building community, connection, and a sense of belonging. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Anglesea, the camp offered more than outdoor adventures; 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 an endurance and skill test; it was an opportunity to support each other, offer a hand when someone was unsure, and celebrate together no matter the outcome. Students stepped outside their comfort zones not alone, but uplifted by a group that wanted them to succeed. 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. It was our College theme of Show Up, Lift Up, Take Action, in practice and felt so good.
A highlight of the camp was the visit from Mr. Exton and our senior student leaders on the second night. Their 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 as a leader, 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 (including a few birthday cakes) brought even more opportunities to connect and create lasting memories. With mild nights and warm days, students enjoyed having conversations as they pulled the ropes for the Giant Swing, rode along the ridge parallel to the beach and shot hoops on the basketball court, discovering more about their peers. It was a relaxing and fun way to connect.
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 year level theme of Aspiring to Grow in every way.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the staff who made this experience possible, especially Mr Beer and Ms. Rees ( Assistant Camp Leaders ) for their diligent organisation and support, and Ms. Anderton and Ms. Edmonds for their attentive care as First-Aid officers. Your dedication and compassion created the conditions for our students to thrive and the camp couldn’t happen without your generous spirit. Special thanks also to Mr. Exton, Ms. Brown, and Ms. Jackson for spending time with us and welcoming Year 7s into our school.
As we return to 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 for stepping up and giving everything a go. It was an absolute pleasure to accompany you on this camp experience!
Deb Hodge
Head of Year 7
Feature
Events
Our News // 08 May 2026
Article by Deb Hodge | Head of Year 7
What an amazing camp experience we had in Anglesea last week for our Year 7 cohort! It felt like Summer, there were plenty of shorts worn and who would have thought we’d need sunscreen in late April/early May. Canoes capsizing didn’t matter as much when you could dry out in the 26 degree weather. We were so blessed!
From the beginning when students eagerly boarded the buses on Monday, April 27, there was a an exciting vibe that something special was ahead of us ~ not just a camp, but a journey building community, connection, and a sense of belonging. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Anglesea, the camp offered more than outdoor adventures; 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 an endurance and skill test; it was an opportunity to support each other, offer a hand when someone was unsure, and celebrate together no matter the outcome. Students stepped outside their comfort zones not alone, but uplifted by a group that wanted them to succeed. 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. It was our College theme of Show Up, Lift Up, Take Action, in practice and felt so good.
A highlight of the camp was the visit from Mr. Exton and our senior student leaders on the second night. Their 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 as a leader, 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 (including a few birthday cakes) brought even more opportunities to connect and create lasting memories. With mild nights and warm days, students enjoyed having conversations as they pulled the ropes for the Giant Swing, rode along the ridge parallel to the beach and shot hoops on the basketball court, discovering more about their peers. It was a relaxing and fun way to connect.
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 year level theme of Aspiring to Grow in every way.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the staff who made this experience possible, especially Mr Beer and Ms. Rees ( Assistant Camp Leaders ) for their diligent organisation and support, and Ms. Anderton and Ms. Edmonds for their attentive care as First-Aid officers. Your dedication and compassion created the conditions for our students to thrive and the camp couldn’t happen without your generous spirit. Special thanks also to Mr. Exton, Ms. Brown, and Ms. Jackson for spending time with us and welcoming Year 7s into our school.
As we return to 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 for stepping up and giving everything a go. It was an absolute pleasure to accompany you on this camp experience!
Deb Hodge
Head of Year 7
