Central 2023 — what an experience! Where 42 Year 10 students and five staff made it from Lilydale to Uluru and all the way to Darwin and back in one piece over ten days during the September school holidays. It was hot and we saw a lot, and it was a fantastic adventure that I will never forget.
A special thank you to the staff who gave up their time to ensure this adventure was as magical as it was — Miss Sarah Battersby, Mr Liam Charles, Mr Michael Dunstan and Miss Victoria Minichilli. Your efforts were amazing and the students and I couldn’t have wished for a better team.
A big thank you to Hollands Adventure Tours. Your experience, knowledge, support and amazing food helped everyone make the most of their time away. Brian and Di, you are legends!
Lastly, to all the parents and guardians, friends and families who helped our 42 adventurers experience the Northern Territory, I thank you for making this journey possible. I hope you have all been thanked profusely by your adventurers upon their return. Without you and your many sacrifices, they wouldn’t have been able to take advantage of this amazing opportunity.
Below are some student reflections of the 2023 Central Australia experience:
Central was absolutely amazing. There aren’t enough words to describe how great it was. We were filled with so many experiences. But the main part that I loved about it was the friendships I made along the way. We would sing karaoke on the bus and when we got to camp we would go for a swim or play card games. It brought everyone together and it got very competitive. I would definitely recommend this trip to everyone. It was both a great experience and a fun time.
— Monique R (Year 10 Red)
Central was an amazing experience that created many friendships and experiences that will last a lifetime. Our days away were very busy, from exploring the outback's wonders and sights such as Uluru and Kings Canyon, to refreshing afternoon swims in swimming pools and waterholes, wonderful meals all eating together, and although they were long, enjoyable bus trips. The group had many laughs and shared plenty of banter that created an amazing environment while away. The trip was an extraordinary experience that I thoroughly enjoyed thanks to our bus driver, Brian, cook, Di, and the staff of MLMC. I would highly recommend this trip if the opportunity is given.
— Lachie P (Year 10 Aqua)
The Central trip was an unforgettable experience where we had the opportunity to explore Australia and make life-long friends. Each day was filled with activities that allowed us to bond with each other while visiting breath-taking sites such as Uluru and natural waterholes. Each bus ride was long but the staff and students made it go by fast as we played different games and sang a lot of karaoke. A highlight was definitely Kings Canyon as we got to see a beautiful natural landscape in outback Australia. Although it was a very long walk, it was all worth it. This trip was amazing and I would undoubtedly recommend it to everyone.
— Sophie M (Year 10 Jade)
This was possibly one of the best camps I have been on. A lifetime of memories and life-long connections were made. It was an incredible experience. Our days in the outback were jam-packed with activities that were enjoyed by all. Despite the lengthy bus rides, I had a great time. Words cannot express how wonderful it was. We had a plethora of adventures. The group had a great time while away, lots of laughing and jokes were made to pass the time. This camp is one I would highly recommend.
— Katherine H (Year 10 Gold)
