Howqua Traditions

Howquarians will fondly remember and many still cherish the Howqua traditions – important practices and special mementos that represent the challenge and triumph synonymous with their time here.

Bed Slats

Howqua can be a daunting prospect for any student, however many take comfort in the knowledge that the path has been well trodden by those who came before her. In many cases, previous Howquarians will leave a message of kindness, inner strength and solidarity on the bed slats under the mattress of each bed.

Mail

Letter writing is the strongest form of communication back to their home. Many Howquarians recount that the first letter home is often centred around homesickness, which is quickly replaced with a sense of Howqua becoming their new home, they equally relish the parcels they receive in return.

Troopys

The humble Troop Carrier, or ‘Troopy’, carries more than just the students and their belongings to the start of their Outdoor Program activity, it carries the energy and anticipation of the challenge that awaits them.

Spirit Award

‘Integrity, Courage, Perseverance, Compassion’ – the values of Howqua are embedded into the program and are more importantly – embodied by the students. The Spirit Award is presented to a student who demonstrates these values each term – as the year progresses, each recipient adds their own small flourish to the award, resulting in some very distinct creative pieces!

Birthdays

Celebrating a birthday at Howqua means being surrounded by her ‘second family’ – even though she is away from home, her housemates will decorate the House with items from the birthday box sent from her family, they all share the traditional Freddo cake, and they receive a special phone call from their family back at home.

Milo Crocs

The Australian icon takes on its own identity at Howqua and is much more than a humble beverage. Many Howqua alumnae will still have their Milo tins, using them to store letters and other Howquarian trinkets. In some cases, the tin stores messages from the previous years’ cohort – stashed safely in the House for the new group to find and feel welcomed. Ensuring the precious condiment lasts until the next delivery is one of the first lessons the girls learn in compromise, sharing and responsibility – no one wants to go without it!