On Tuesday 22 October, we had the 2024 Sport Awards in the MMC during lunch time and period 5. We welcomed students and their families to the event to celebrate the sporting achievements of our students both in and out of school hours. The event was run by our outgoing 2024 Wellbeing Leader Ivana Kasun and our 2025 Vice Captain Lily Hood with help from MSJ Sports Coordinator Luke McCartney.
We had the privilege of honouring our students who participated in over 15 CGSAV sporting events this year, as well the Netball Victoria School Championships and the School Sport Victoria State Lacrosse Championships. We also acknowledged the vast array of students who are currently completing school as well as competing in their chosen sports outside of school at a very high-level, including state, national and world championships. We also acknowledged the long-standing efforts of Year 12 students who have excelled in their chosen sport for the duration of their time at MSJ, with Kayla Britnell for Cricket and Sarah Trigger for Swimming receiving that recognition.
Lastly, the major awards for the event were the Student Athletes of the Year awards for our junior, intermediate and senior age groups. With many nominees acknowledged for their efforts in sport for the year, our winners were Chloe Gawith for the juniors, Alexa Zimmerling for the intermediates and Eliza Walsh for the seniors. All those girls had an amazing year in sport, representing MSJ on many occasions and showing great teamwork and amazing leadership skills.
We look forward to a huge 2025 in sport at MSJ.
Luke McCartney - Sport & Co-curricular Leader
From 16 to 18 October, the Silver Duke of Edinburgh students embarked on a three-day hike at Wilsons Promontory, marking our qualifying adventurous journey and the final camp of the year.
During the hike, we explored coastal landscapes, passing through iconic locations like Squeaky Beach, Oberon Bay, and Tidal River. The area’s rich wildlife added to the experience, as we encountered wombats, wallabies, and rosellas.
This camp pushed us in many ways, demanding independence, resilience, and strong teamwork. We supported each other through all aspects of the experience—cooking, cleaning, setting up camp, and tackling the challenging hikes. By the end of the journey, we had grown into a close-knit group, bonded by our shared efforts and achievements.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. McCartney for accompanying us and driving the bus to camp. A special thanks to Ms. Bowring for her dedication to organising and leading this program, which made this adventure possible for everyone.
Keely Williams, Maddie Thomas, Lila Boyd - Year 10
Our Hike started at Bells Beach and took us through to Anglesea. One highlight was reaching an overlook that offered a breathtaking view of the ocean and the rugged cliffs. Wildlife encounters such as echidnas, tiger snakes and kangaroos added a magical touch. While a steep ascent tested our endurance, we overcame it by taking breaks and focusing on our progress, reinforcing our resilience. Although the experience of sleeping in a tent was rough due to the rocky ground and cold winds, it taught us valuable lessons about preparation and being adaptable.
Cooking together and toasting marshmallows on the fire as we shared stories about our day, the food, though basic, tasted incredible after the day’s exertion. Overcoming the fatigue of the hike and the chilly conditions created a bond among us, as we cheered each other on and savoured the moment. On the second day, we completed a short hike, ultimately completing our journey. We were all very fatigued and ready to go home!
Gargi Amit - Year 9
