Aspects - Term 4 Week 5

i s s u e 5 , 2025

the official publication

of Snowy Mountains Grammar School

Contents 03

From the Principal A Reflection on the First Half of Term 4

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From the Head of Junior School Growing Together in the Junior School

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From the School Counsellor Advice for Parents—the Final Stretch of Term 4

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Senior Investiture Ceremony Leadership, Character and a Commitment to Community

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From the Boarding Captains Reflections from the 2025 and 2026 Boarding Captains

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From the Head of Performing Arts Performing Arts Term 4

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From the Head of Co-Curricular Term 4 Co-Curricular Program

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Good Arguments SMGS Senior Debating Team Named National Champions

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Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Gungarlin Adventurous Journey 2025

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Creating Space for Creativity The Power of Freedom in Digital Media

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The Buzzing Beginnings Stage 5 Agricultural Technology

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Say it Out Loud Year 8 Performance Poetry in Term 3

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SMGS Class of 2015 10-Year Reunion Celebrating Connection, Opportunity and Memories

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17 Edition Editor / Photographer Copy Editor Graphic Designer

Issue 5, 2025 Brooke Darlington Caroline Richards Sarah Elliot

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Cover: Senior Investiture Ceremony. Click through for article.

This page: Cre8ive Sessions Term 4. Click through for article.

Principal’s Note

From the Principal

A Reflection on the First Half of Term 4 The first half of Term 4 has been a significant and rewarding period for our learning community, marked by meaningful achievements, important milestones and events that continue to strengthen the culture of Snowy Mountains Grammar School. As we approach the final weeks of the school year, it is timely to reflect on these moments and acknowledge the efforts of the students, staff and families who contribute so positively to our School.

National Champions in Senior Debating A particular highlight has been the exceptional success of our Senior Debating Team of Georgie, Sienna, Will and Emma, who won the Grand Final of the Australian National Virtual Debating Competition against Kinross Wolaroi School. This accomplishment is outstanding and represents the first national debating title in the School’s history. The team is only the second from SMGS to reach this level, which underscores the significance of their achievement.

Their success is the result of disciplined preparation, critical thinking and teamwork. It also reflects the sustained development of debating at SMGS, strengthened for many years through the dedication and guidance of Ms Anne Jones. I extend my sincere gratitude to Ms Jones for her leadership of this program and for the many students she has supported over time.

Leadership and Mentorship It has been equally pleasing to observe the way our senior debaters have mentored younger students throughout the year.

The Class of 2025

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Their willingness to share skills, offer encouragement and model positive learning habits contributes meaningfully to the wider culture of the School. This type of peer leadership aligns closely with the values we uphold.

Investiture of the Class of 2026 Earlier this term, we held the Year 12 Investiture Ceremony to formally induct the Class of 2026 as our new senior cohort and prefect team. This event marks an important transition as students assume leadership responsibilities and begin their senior studies in earnest.

The cohort approached the occasion with humility and a clear sense of purpose. We look forward to supporting them as they continue to develop as young leaders who contribute positively to the tone and wellbeing of the School.

The Class of 2025 and the HSC Alongside this, the Class of 2025 has been completing their Higher School Certificate Examinations. This period represents the culmination of thirteen years of schooling and carries considerable personal significance for students and their families.

The cohort has demonstrated calm focus and maturity during this demanding time, and we remain proud of their consistent effort and determination.

Principal’s Note

World Teachers Day This term we also acknowledged World Teachers Day, which provided an important opportunity to recognise the expertise, professionalism and commitment of our teaching and support staff. Their daily work in classrooms, pastoral settings and cocurricular programs shapes the experience of every student. I extend my sincere thanks to all staff for the care they provide and for the high standards they uphold.

A Culture of Support in the Curiosity Centre Although the organised HSC weekend study sessions have concluded, the Curiosity Centre has continued to be a place of purposeful study and collaboration. Recently, a group of Year 7 students took the initiative to host their own peer-tutoring study session, supported by our Academic Leaders and staff.

Staff provided a calm and well-resourced environment, along with refreshments, ensuring that students could work effectively together. This initiative is a clear reflection of the strong learning culture that has grown within the Curiosity Centre and the positive habits students are developing as independent learners.

Discover Year 7 and the Transition to Middle School The Discover Year 7 program has also been a significant focus in the early weeks of this term. Preparing for the transition to Middle School is an important milestone, and the program aims to ensure that this experience is positive, supportive and engaging for students and their families.

Our Discover Year 7 Experience Day was filled with enthusiasm, curiosity and connection. Future students participated in a range of activities that introduced them to Middle School life, fostered confidence and built new friendships. I thank our 2026 prefect team for their support on the day and for the positive example they provided.

We were privileged to hear from long-serving staff members, Mrs Sue Sell and Ms Anne Jones, whose personal reflections offered valuable insight into the early years of SMGS. Following the assembly, students enjoyed a BBQ lunch together, which created a warm and celebratory atmosphere befitting this important milestone.

Looking Ahead The first half of Term 4 has provided many reasons for our community to feel proud. Our students have demonstrated character, leadership and aspiration. Our staff have continued to offer unwavering support and high-quality learning experiences.

Our families have remained engaged partners in the educational journey.

As we look toward the final weeks of the school year, I am confident that the strong foundations evidenced throughout this term will continue to guide us. I thank all members of our community for their ongoing contribution to the life of the School and wish everyone a productive and fulfilling conclusion to the term.

DR ANDREW BELL Principal [E] principal@smgs.nsw.edu.au 2025 HSC Showcase

Celebrating the Arts The first half of this term also saw the final Cre8ive Sessions for 2025, which provided a vibrant and affirming celebration of creativity and courage. The evening featured music, performance poetry, drama, HSIE, English and visual art displays, with students from the Middle and Senior School taking to the Snowy Shed stage. For many, this was their first time performing publicly, and they approached the opportunity with enthusiasm and confidence, supported by a warm and appreciative audience.

The Cre8ive Sessions platform continues to provide an important space for students to perform, build confidence and further develop their communication and stage presence. I extend my sincere thanks to the staff who supported our performers and artists throughout the evening and behind the scenes. We look forward to seeing what our students create in 2026.

Investiture Ceremony

The Discover Year 7 Program

30th Anniversary Student Assembly We also gathered to mark the 30th anniversary of Snowy Mountains Grammar School in a special student-focused assembly. This occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the School’s history and the individuals who have contributed to its development over three decades. smgs.nsw.edu.au

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Junior School

From the Head of Junior School Growing Together in the Junior School Community is an important part of our Junior School, and this term we have enjoyed many opportunities for students, families and staff to come together.

Our Year 3 students recently welcomed parents and carers into the classroom for a handson STEM session to build Tech Deck parks. Students explored concepts such as force, gravity, friction and 3D shapes, while also building confidence, creativity and teamwork. Working alongside family members strengthened the valuable connection between home and school.

Working alongside family members strengthened the valuable connection between home and school.

We also had a special visit when a family brought baby chicks to school. Kindergarten and Year 1 students loved learning about lifecycles and caring for animals. Their excitement and thoughtful questions showed how powerful real-life learning can be.

Our Storytime sessions with local preschools and early learning centres, including Gidgillys, Whispering Gully and Thredbo Early Learning Centre, were another highlight. Visiting children enjoyed a story with our Kindergarten teacher and a tour with our Head of Junior School. These visits help young children feel comfortable in new spaces and give families a chance to connect with our school.

Storytime sessions

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We have also seen more children taking part in our Snowy Mountains Grammar School Experience Day program. These come-and-try days allow prospective students to spend time in a classroom, meet teachers and classmates and experience our Junior School before enrolling.

Our recent Remembrance Day assembly also brought our community together. Students from all year levels gathered to reflect and show respect, with older students supporting younger ones. This helped build leadership, empathy and a strong sense of belonging.

These experiences show how important community is to learning.

When families visit classrooms, when young children explore our school and when students learn together across age groups, we create a warm and supportive environment where every child can thrive.

As we approach the end of the school year, it has been wonderful to see our Junior School community continue to grow, connect and support one another. We look forward to building on this strong foundation next year.

KIMBERLEY WHITEHEAD Head of Junior School [E] kimberley.whitehead@smgs.nsw.edu.au

Junior School

Remembrance Day Assembly

Year 3 STEM with family members

Year 3 STEM with family members

Kindergarten and Year 1 students learning about lifecycles and caring for animals

smgs.nsw.edu.au

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School Counsellor

From the School Counsellor Advice for Parents—the Final Stretch of Term 4 As we enter the final stretch of Term 4, many families are feeling that familiar mix of excitement and exhaustion. The summer holidays are in sight, yet there is still much to be done— assessments, performances, end-of-year events and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with wrapping up another school year. Whether your child is in Kindergarten or Year 12, this time of year can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are a few ways you can support your child to finish strongly and step into the holidays feeling positive and balanced.

1. Acknowledge the fatigue.

By Term 4, students (and parents!) are often running low on energy. Younger children might be more emotional or easily frustrated, while older students may feel overwhelmed by examinations and deadlines. It helps to name what is going on: ‘It’s been a big year and you must be tired’, and remind them that feeling worn out is normal. Simple empathy goes a long way in easing pressure.

With report cards and examinations looming, it is tempting to focus on marks.

But celebrating persistence, growth and resilience sends a much more powerful message.

2. Keep routines consistent.

As calendars fill with concerts, sports presentations and Christmas rehearsals, it is easy for regular routines to slip. Try to maintain consistent sleep times, healthy meals and quiet moments at home. Children and teens thrive on predictability, and keeping some rhythm to the week can reduce anxiety and support focus.

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3. Focus on effort, not just results.

With report cards and examinations looming, it is tempting to focus on marks. But celebrating persistence, growth and resilience sends a much more powerful message. You might say, ‘I’m proud of how hard you tried’ or ‘You kept going even when it was tricky’.

This helps children build a growth mindset and see learning as a lifelong journey.

4. Create calm and connection.

During busy periods, children often need reassurance more than advice. Taking time to talk, share a meal or go for a walk together helps them feel grounded and supported. Teenagers, especially, may not always show it, but your calm presence makes a huge difference.

5. End the year with gratitude.

Encourage your child to reflect on their achievements and the things they have enjoyed or learned this year. A thank-you note to a teacher or classmate can be a lovely ritual to close the term with positivity and appreciation.

As the holidays approach, remember—finishing well is not about perfection, it’s about balance, connection and celebrating how far each child has come.

ALEX DAWSON School Counsellor [E] alex.dawson@smgs.nsw.edu.au

Events

Senior Investiture Ceremony

Leadership, Character and a Commitment to Community

School Captains - Ingoing and Outgoing

At the beginning of the term, we proudly inducted the Class of 2026 as our Year 12 leaders at the Senior Investiture Ceremony.

This significant occasion marked the formal beginning of their final year and acknowledged the responsibility they now hold as leaders within our K to 12 learning community.

The ceremony focused on leadership, teamwork and the shared values that guide us at Snowy Mountains Grammar School. A particularly meaningful moment was the involvement of our Junior School leaders, who joined the event to lead the Seniors’ pledge. Their participation reinforced an important message: leadership is cultivated across all ages, and the behaviours we model in the early years continue to shape the tone and culture of the School. This visible connection between our youngest and oldest students exemplifies the strength of our K to 12 community and the continuity of values that unite us.

As our new leaders step into their roles, they do so with the understanding that leadership at SMGS is grounded in character. It is demonstrated through acts of kindness, courage, responsibility and respect, expressed not only in formal duties but also through the everyday interactions that contribute to a supportive and inclusive environment.

The prefect team plays a critical role in the life of the School.

Their contribution extends far beyond events and ceremonies.

They set the tone for younger students, uphold the expectations of conduct and engagement and support the wellbeing and connectedness of the student body. Their influence will help guide many aspects of school life, ensuring that our values remain visible in the way our community learns, plays, leads and serves.

As they begin this journey, we offer this advice: lead with humility, listen with intention and act with integrity. Leadership is not about being at the front. It is about lifting others, creating opportunities for peers to thrive and demonstrating the character we wish to see reflected across the School.

We congratulate each of these students and look forward to seeing them contribute positively to the life of the School. Their leadership will help shape the experiences of their peers and will influence the culture of SMGS well beyond their final year. As they guide our community in the months ahead, we are confident they will do so with purpose, positivity and integrity.

DANIELLE GOUCHER Deputy Principal [E] danielle.goucher@smgs.nsw.edu.au smgs.nsw.edu.au

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Events 2026 Student Leadership Team School Captains Oscar W. and Georgette P. Junior School Captains Zarli D. and Jack L. Academic Captains Evie C. and Stella S. Sports Captains Tessa P. and Toby M. Service Learning Captain Charlie P.

Sports Captains Cascades House Captain

Boarding Captain Aidan O.

Kiandra House Captain

Performing Arts Captain Poppy B. Media, Art and Design Captain Hannah D. Cascades House Captain Chase H. Kiandra House Captain Violet O. Mowamba House Captain Lola B. Twynam House Captain Cole H.

Mowamba House Captain

Twynam House Captain

Junior School Captains

Service Learning Captain

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Academic Captains

Media, Art and Design Captain

Boarding Captain

Performing Arts Captain

Boarding

Events

Senior Investiture Ceremony

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Boarding

From the Boarding Captains

Reflections from the 2025 and 2026 Boarding Captains Aidan O’Connor—Incoming Captain How does it feel to step into the role of Boarding Captain?

It feels like a great privilege to be the Boarding Captain for 2026 and to have the opportunity to lead our boarding community in my final year at school. Boarding has played such a significant role in shaping who I am, so to now have the chance to give back and represent the students who make it such a vibrant, supportive place is something I’m really proud of. It’s an exciting challenge and one I’m ready to take on with enthusiasm and gratitude.

What are you most excited about in this new role?

I’m really looking forward to running activities and events that bring everyone together and strengthen the sense of community in boarding. Whether it’s weekend activities, theme nights, or just small initiatives that get people connecting, I think those moments are what make boarding life memorable. I want to help create opportunities for everyone to feel involved and connected, especially our younger boarders who are still finding their feet.

How do you plan to support and inspire your fellow boarders this year?

I’ve always believed that leadership starts with being approachable and positive. I try to be a friendly, smiling face around the boarding house, the school and the wider community. You never really know what someone might be going through, so being kind, open and supportive can make a real difference. I hope that by leading with empathy and positivity, I can help foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable, valued and confident to be themselves.

Is there anything about the outgoing Boarding Captain’s leadership that you hope to carry forward?

Taylah did an amazing job balancing everything that came with being in Year 12—her studies, her leadership role and her friendships.

She showed that you can be dedicated and responsible while still enjoying your final year, and that’s something I really admire. I hope to continue that same balance and level-headed approach, ensuring that while we work hard and take our responsibilities seriously, we also make time to enjoy the moments and celebrate the unique experience of boarding life together.

Taylah Kemm—Outgoing Captain What has been your proudest moment as Boarding Captain?

My proudest moment as Boarding Captain has definitely been having the chance to give back to such an incredible group of people and to get to know students from all different year levels. The sense of connection and community in boarding is something really special, and being able to play a part in that has been a privilege.

Speaking at the Boarders’ Dinner The sense of was also a moment I’ll never connection and forget—it was such a proud and community emotional experience to reflect on the journey we’ve all shared. in boarding is

something really special, and being able to play a part in that has been a privilege.

What was the biggest challenge you faced and how did you get through it?

The biggest challenge for me was finding the right balance— being as involved in the boarding house as possible while still managing my friendships at day school, keeping up with my academics and trying to enjoy my final year. It wasn’t always easy, but I learned quickly that organisation is everything. Planning ahead, managing my time and tackling jobs as soon as they came up really helped me stay on top of things and make the most of every opportunity.

How has being Boarding Captain helped you grow as a person?

Being Boarding Captain has helped me develop so many important skills—communication, teamwork and compromise, just to name a few. I’ve also learned the importance of asking for help and recognising that leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself— it’s about working together, supporting others and creating an environment in which everyone can thrive.

What advice would you give the next Boarding Captain to help them shine?

Take every opportunity that comes your way and make the most of it. Look for ways to make the boarding house even better—no matter how small—and take action to make those improvements happen. Most importantly, enjoy your final year. It goes by so fast, and you’ll want to look back knowing you embraced every moment and made a positive difference.

Are there any unforgettable moments from your year as Boarding Captain?

Honestly, all of them! Our Year 12 group was such a great bunch to go through boarding with. The Boarders’ Dinner was definitely a highlight—it was such a special night—but so were all the little moments: touch footy games on the oval, Saturday activities, latenight laughs and the everyday memories in between. Those small moments are what made this year so unforgettable.

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Arts

From the Head of Performing Arts Performing Arts Term 4

As 2025 comes to an end, students continued to celebrate their talents, skills and passions at our most recent Cre8ive Sessions.

Crossing curriculars, Drama and Music students performed alongside English students, who also presented their works with Visual Arts and Design and HSIE students.

While some have been performing to audiences for years now, the nerves don’t always disappear. And yet this is perhaps what gives courage to those who have only just started to push their boundaries and find that they can, in fact, jump up on stage and offer their songs, scenes and self-devised poetry to others.

It is rewarding to see so many students stand up in front of a large audience, take a deep breath and begin—and, even then, to witness them stumble, take another deep breath, see the encouraging faces of their family and friends and continue to the end. It is almost a crime that some staff members are the only ones to see the camaraderie backstage, as performers are cheered on before going on stage and patted on the back as they come off, celebrating their achievements. This culture of respect for others, support and admiration is a joy to see come alive.

As we celebrate the achievements of so many at our annual Arts and Design Awards evening this term, we congratulate students on their creativity but also on their bravery—to find a way to make a statement, to work aesthetically with a value that means so

much to them. These students are not afraid to speak up, they make us think, they remind us of the beauty of the world around us, alongside its flaws. They ask us to appreciate or to make change. Students who express themselves creatively ask us to be courageous, to act authentically and to treat each other with respect and empathy.

While 2025 must come to an end, 2026 is just around the corner. Auditions and casting for our next Middle and Senior School Musical are well under way. With more students than ever keen to be a part of this production, I am looking forward to a ground-breakingly energetic performance of ‘Rock of Ages’ next May. While I will be leaving the students in some very capable hands, I look forward to returning as an audience member to enjoy this amazing musical come to life next year.

I know the arts will continue to grow as students of Snowy Mountains Grammar School challenge themselves and break new ground. The arts will always pull me back to Cre8ive Sessions, class and school productions and showcases. I look forward to sharing these with you.

CATH BATSON Head of Performing Arts [E] cath.batson@smgs.nsw.edu.au smgs.nsw.edu.au

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Boarding Arts

Cre8ive Sessions Term 4

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Arts

Cre8ive Sessions Term 4

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Co-Curricular

From the Head of Co-Curricular Term 4 Co-Curricular Program Our co-curricular program this term once again opens the door to a wide range of opportunities for students to explore, create and connect beyond the classroom. From Robotics and Art Club to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Equestrian and Mountain Biking Academies, our diverse offering provides something to engage every student’s interests and to help them grow in confidence, curiosity and skill.

At Snowy Mountains Grammar School, one of our key strategic themes within our Strategic Intent 2025–2029 is ‘Well-Rounded Opportunities’. This theme reflects our belief that learning extends far beyond traditional academics. Cocurricular activities embody this vision, encouraging students to discover passions, build relationships and develop the character and resilience that come from shared experiences and teamwork. Whether it’s running before sunrise, rehearsing a performance or designing a STEM innovation, these moments of exploration are where lifelong skills and memories are forged.

Our Term 4 program offers a balance of Physical, Heart & Mind and Creative & Performing Arts experiences. Students can choose from options such as Run Club, Netball, STEM Design and Make Club, Drama, Bright Sparks, Warhammer Club and Aperture (Astronomy Club). These activities nurture the whole child, promoting physical wellbeing, emotional intelligence, creative expression and intellectual curiosity. They also reflect our ongoing commitment to ensuring that every student has access to opportunities that challenge, inspire and connect them to the broader SMGS community.

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The strength of our co-curricular program lies not only in its variety but also in the dedication of our staff who lead these experiences. Teachers and coaches bring enthusiasm, expertise and care to every session, ensuring each student feels supported to try something new, persevere through challenges and celebrate their achievements.

As we look ahead to the close of another remarkable year, our co-curricular activities continue to showcase the vibrant spirit of SMGS, one that values balance, participation and belonging.

We encourage all students to take part, step outside their comfort zones and embrace the joy of learning in all its forms.

Together, we continue to elevate education by providing opportunities that inspire every student to explore, belong and challenge themselves, both inside and beyond the classroom.

LUKE WHARTON Head of Co-Curricular Head of Strategic Development and Partnerships [E] luke.wharton@smgs.nsw.edu.au

Beyond the Classroom

Good Arguments

SMGS Senior Debating Team Named National Champions Snowy Mountains Grammar School’s Senior Virtual Debating Team has achieved an exceptional milestone, securing the National Championship title in the ...the team Australian National Virtual demonstrated a high Debating Competition, after a decisive Grand Final level of academic win against Kinross Wolaroi discipline as they School. This marks only deconstructed the the second time an SMGS motion, synthesised team has progressed to the national final and the first key concepts time the school has been and constructed awarded the championship.

a coherent and

The Grand Final topic, ‘That well-evidenced the Australian Government affirmative case. should implement an “Automation Tax” on AI in business to fund social programs and address income inequality’, required a sophisticated understanding of

economics, public policy and emerging technologies. In the one-hour preparation period, the team demonstrated a high level of academic discipline as they deconstructed the motion, synthesised key concepts and constructed a coherent and wellevidenced affirmative case.

Adjudicators commended both teams on their analytical depth, well-structured arguments and effective rebuttals.

One adjudicator observed that ‘the intellectual horsepower was evident’, noting in particular the clarity of reasoning and the confident delivery of the third speakers from both schools.

After careful deliberation, the adjudication panel reached a unanimous decision in favour of Snowy Mountains Grammar School.

SMGS congratulates Georgie, Sienna, Will and Emma on this outstanding academic achievement.

The school also acknowledges the significant contribution of Ms Anne Jones for her expertise, guidance and long-standing commitment to the development and strengthening of the SMGS debating program.

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Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Gungarlin Adventurous Journey 2025

At the end of Term 3, just as most of the SMGS community were relaxing into holiday mode after a hectic Term 3, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award students and staff headed out on a four-day adventure into the Snowy Plains area of Kosciuszko National Park.

to rely on their off-track navigational skills, utilising maps and compasses while traversing through thick vegetation and steep terrain to reach the summit of Mt Kalkite. The views over the lake all the way to Jindabyne were spectacular and made the arduous journey worthwhile.

The expedition party departed from Island Bend and hiked into the beautiful Gungarlin River campground to base camp for the next three nights. The afternoon hike on the first day ventured to the CSIRO Rabbit Hut, which provided some interesting information about the historical measures used to control the overpopulation of the species in the region.

The third day of the journey tested the resilience and determination of the expedition party in undertaking an 18 km return hike to the remote Kidmans Hut. The group visited Daveys Hut and the ruins of other historic homesteads along the way and were treated to numerous herds of brumbies passing through the open plains.

After a wild overnight storm, the second day’s adventures began with a visit to Botherum Plain Hut and a river crossing through the icy waters of the Gungarlin River, whilst learning first-hand about safety measures implemented when hiking through deeper waters. Navigational skills were certainly put to the test for the remainder of the day, when the group had

Despite the freezing temperatures at night and the sore muscles and blistered feet, the attending staff were indeed proud of the positivity, camaraderie and grit showcased by the students over this four-day adventurous journey. Sincere thanks to Mr Deed, Mrs Whitehead and Mrs Bell for accompanying our students on these invaluable adventures into the wilderness.

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Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Gungarlin Adventurous Journey 2025

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In the Classroom

Creating Space for Creativity The Power of Freedom in Digital Media In a school environment where assessment often drives learning, creating genuine space for creativity can feel both radical and necessary. At Snowy Mountains Grammar School, the Digital Media program embraces this philosophy, particularly through the documentary short films produced by students in Term 3.

Centred on the theme of winter, each student explored a perspective that reflected their personal experiences, interests and connection to life in the Snowy Mountains. These films range from intimate family stories to profiles of community life, sport and the natural environment.

Student Films: • Instructor in the Making by Tanner Kell, following his sister’s journey to become a ski instructor •

Behind the Bench by Harry Kendall, offering insight into working in a ski shop during winter

•

Winter on the Farm by Lilly Starr, capturing rural life through the eyes of her parents and their relationship with the land

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Behind the Scenes of Life Behind the Gates by Tahlia Frost, depicting race training through action footage and interviews

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Why Australia by Willow Philpott, sharing the experience of an international ski coach who has come to work in Australia

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Winter by Finn O’Connor, reflecting on life off the snow through an interview with a friend recovering from injury.

These short films became more than class projects. They grew into authentic expressions of student voice, shaped by curiosity, personal agency and lived experience.

What makes this experience especially powerful is the absence of marks. In Digital Media, learning is supported through feedback, encouragement and ongoing refinement rather than rubrics and grades. Without the pressure to get everything right, students are free to experiment, take creative risks and move past the hesitation that often limits artistic work. They create for the sake of creating, and the learning develops naturally.

The results speak for themselves. Students showed maturity as storytellers, technical skill as editors and a strong sense of ownership over their creative choices. Their films reflect not only proficiency but also confidence, the kind that grows when young people are trusted to explore, imagine and create without limits.

Instructor in the Making [watch video]

Behind the Bench [watch video]

Winter on the Farm [watch video]

Behind the Scenes of Life Behind the Gates [watch video]

Why Australia [watch video]

By making space for creativity, we help students discover their voice and develop the courage to use it. This is where the true power of Digital Media lies.

SCOTT FRIZE Head of Arts & Design [E] scott.frize@smgs.nsw.edu.au 19 Aspects Snowy Mountains Grammar School

Winter [watch video]

Agriculture

The Buzzing Beginnings Stage 5 Agricultural Technology This term, the Stage 5 Agricultural Technology students have been all abuzz with excitement—quite literally! Our focus has been on the art and science of beekeeping, and it’s been a hive of hands-on learning from the very start.

In early October, our students were in for an incredible opportunity: two bee swarms were spotted in East Jindabyne!

With quick co-ordination and careful handling, we successfully caught both swarms and brought them safely back to school.

These new colonies found their new homes in our specially prepared SMGS Flow Hives, fondly named ‘The Buzzing Palace’ and ‘The Stinging Station’.

These hives weren’t just ready-made, they were built and assembled by our Stage 5 Agriculture students in late Term 2, in anticipation of this term’s apiary unit. The swarms themselves came from the same original hive, where the queen’s abundance of nectar and pollen during the early spring warmth led to the creation of new queens and, eventually, two adventurous swarms setting off to form their own colonies.

Since their arrival at SMGS, the bees have been busy settling in and establishing their new homes. Students have stepped into the role of apiarists, donning full bee suits and exploring the inner workings of the hives. They’ve learned to identify the queen and the worker and drone bees, observed the formation of comb and witnessed the first signs of honey production beginning in their Flow Hives.

The experience has offered a unique blend of science, sustainability and excitement, giving our young agriculturalists a hands-on understanding of the vital role bees play in ecosystems and food production.

From East Jindabyne’s wild swarms to the buzzing heart of SMGS, our beekeeping journey is just beginning, and the hives are humming with promise for what’s to come!

AMBER OAKMAN Agricultural Technology Teacher

[E] amber.oakman@smgs.nsw.edu.au

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In the Classroom

Say it Out Loud

Year 8 Performance Poetry in Term 3

As part of their study of performance poetry in Term 3, Year 8 students composed an original poem and recorded their delivery. Students were given freedom to choose a topic inspired by an image of their own choice that held personal significance, resulting in work that was thoughtful, honest and deeply individual. Their mature ideas and willingness to engage in meaningful conversations are commended, and their courage to perform a work of such a personal nature is genuinely appreciated.

Ivy’s poem embraced the power of performance poetry as a way to inspire connection and provide space for powerful stories that deserve to be heard. Her work highlighted how activists can voice their perspectives and enables minority voices to be acknowledged. In responding to her chosen image, Ivy was prompted to consider the safety of young women and the significance of this issue. Her poem, ‘Walk Home’, explored the realities of the world we live in, capturing the constant vigilance and unease experienced by many young women, who feel unsafe and always on alert.

Filip recognised that performance poetry holds the power to expose issues in the world peacefully, relying on words rather than violence. He reflected on how confidence in one’s voice is often undermined, yet remains crucial in confronting challenges with courage. His poem, ‘Behind BARS’, examined strong societal pressures that discourage individuals from speaking with assurance, and he particularly focused on some negative attitudes to success. Through this piece, Filip encouraged audiences to use their voices with conviction, to be proud of their achievements and to allow their true personalities to be seen.

Lilly’s poem was powerful in the way it brought words to life, connected people, and gave voice to truth and emotion. Her 21

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poem, ‘Two Worlds’, explored the pain of having to choose an identity and commit to a future at a young age. It speaks to anyone who feels torn between competing dreams. The image she selected was a ridgeline dividing two worlds, one of ski racing and the other of mountain biking. This visual metaphor reflected the difficult choice between her passions and the fear that whichever path she chooses, she may have to leave a part of herself behind.

Poppy used performance poetry to convey emotion in a way that was both felt and heard. Her poem ‘Perfection’ explored the harmful and unrealistic pursuit of perfection and the emotional emptiness it can create. Through this piece, she reflected on how striving for flawlessness can limit personal freedom and negatively impact one’s sense of self.

Molly’s work was inspired by the idea of striving for something more, and the human tendency to compare ourselves to others. Her poem, ‘In My Silent Dream’, metaphorically explored feelings of being undervalued or replaceable.

Everyday objects such as hair ties, pencils and drink bottles were used symbolically to reflect this sense of comparison and longing.

Angie showcased how poetry allows thoughts and emotions to be expressed in ways ordinary words cannot. Her poem ‘Tiny Shoes to Bigger Days’ explored the fear of growing up and the challenge of navigating the transition from childhood to adulthood. She conveyed that even in difficult times, there is always hope and a way forward.

KYLIE WHARTON Head of Year 8 English Teacher

[E] kylie.wharton@smgs.nsw.edu.au smgs.nsw.edu.au 21

In the Classroom

Year 8 Performance Poetry

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Events

SMGS Class of 2015 10-Year Reunion Celebrating Connection, Opportunity and Memories On the first weekend of November, Snowy Mountains Grammar School welcomed back the Class of 2015 for their 10Year Reunion. Over 25 people attended the event, where both alumni and their partners returned to campus to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate a decade since their graduation.

The afternoon began with a tour of the current SMGS campus, with the guests exploring the many changes that have taken place since their time at school. From the expanded classrooms and modernised facilities to the developments in the boarding precinct, there was a strong sense of pride in how the school has continued to evolve while maintaining a sense of belonging.

The tour was led by Mrs Sue Sell and Ms Anne Jones, who joined me in welcoming the alumni and sharing stories with the former students from their days at SMGS. For many, it was a chance to revisit familiar spaces that shaped so many of their experiences—from classrooms and the boarding houses, to the Snowy Shed and the sporting fields.

Following the tour, the group gathered at Rydges Horizons for a relaxed evening reception. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for everyone to reconnect and share their journey since leaving school, from careers and travel to new families and personal achievements. Our sincere thanks go to Rydges Horizons for their hospitality and to Miss Seren Onur (2015) and Mrs Isobel van der Mann (née van der Waerden) (2015) for their contribution to the organisation of the evening.

Throughout the night, one common theme emerged: connection. The Class of 2015 reflected on how the relationships formed at Snowy Mountains Grammar School— with peers, mentors and teachers—have continued to influence their lives long after graduation. Many expressed their gratitude for the care, encouragement and belief shown by staff, who helped them to pursue their passions and explore opportunities beyond the school gates.

Reunions like this are more than just social gatherings—they are moments of reflection and celebration. They remind us of how far we’ve come and of the foundations built during our formative years. Taking the time to look back allows us to recognise the challenges we’ve faced, the friendships that have endured and the opportunities that have shaped who we have become.

Equally, reunions are about looking forward: celebrating success, embracing new opportunities and acknowledging the shared values that continue to connect us as an SMGS community.

For the Class of 2015, their reunion was not just about revisiting memories, but about appreciating the lasting impact of their education and the people who helped shape their journey.

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As we look ahead to the next decade, the Class of 2015 stands as a testament to what it means to be part of the SMGS story— one built on connection, opportunity and lifelong belonging.

From here we look to 2026 and the class of 2016. Additionally, if alumni are interested in organising these type of events through school, I would encourage them to reach out to alumni@smgs.nsw.edu.au.

TIM BLAND Head of Middle and Senior School Co-curricular Co-ordinator (2015 Year 12 English Standard Teacher) [E] tim.bland@smgs.nsw.edu.au

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Snowy Mountains Grammar School 6339 Kosciuszko Road Jindabyne NSW 2627 (02) 6457 1022 info@smgs.nsw.edu.au

www.smgs.nsw.edu.au