Mt Hotham – Ski Trip 2025

Greetings from the snowy peaks of Mt Hotham, where this week’s newsletter is being written from the cozy comfort of Bembooka Lodge, perched at an impressive 1861m above sea level. Hotham is a true mecca for snow lovers from across Australia and beyond, and it’s been the perfect setting for our 2025 PDS ski trip adventure.

With 38 students and 4 staff embracing the alpine experience, this camp has been a living example of our Term 3 focus value: Courage. Whether snowboarding, skiing, or simply playing in the snow, our students have shown courage in countless ways—both on and off the slopes. 

After a long day of blizzard like conditions, I asked our Ski Trip crew what courageous behaviours they had demonstrated already in their first two days away from home. Their responses were thoughtful, inspiring, and living examples of courage; 

• Boarding a plane for the first time
• Getting up at 3am to travel to the airport
• Leaving our parents behind and accepting the challenges of living life independently
• Locking into ski or board binding knowing there is no turning back
• Trying something completely new and foreign whilst stepping out of your comfort zone
• Getting onto a chairlift for the first time not knowing what the other end of the lift looks like
• Having a go on a new run, even when unsure where it is going to take you
• Falling down and getting back up again knowing you need to keep on trying
• Facing blizzard like conditions head-on (We certainly did this!)
• Attempting jumps and tackling bumps
• Taking on unfamiliar runs instead of sticking to the usual familiar spots
• Building new friendships and working with new instructors and staff
• Navigating the shuttle bus system independently
• Pushing through soreness and fatigue on a daily basis
• Switching off phones to be present with friends
• Trying new foods
• Skiing powder for the first time
• And for some, being away from home for the very first time

Watching our students persevere through challenges, overcome frustrations, and support one another has been nothing short of fantastic. Skiing and snowboarding may look effortless on TV, but they are incredibly demanding skills. The determination and resilience shown by our students as they learned, fell, laughed and tried again is a true credit to them.

This week has been a celebration of students demonstrating connection, respect, courage, growth and responsibility whilst creating unforgettable memories. We’re proud of every student who took part and grateful for the opportunity to witness their bravery in action.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank Arianne Popowski, Jordan Taylor and Hayley Marshall for taking time away from their families to support our students.  A big “shout out” goes to Mr Hughes who has done an enormous amount of work and planning in the background to make this trip possible.  We would also like to thank Tim, Kathy and John for their lodge hospitality throughout the week.  Finally, to our families, thank you for allowing us to share this amazing opportunity with your children.

Yours in partnership

Adrian Beard

(Primary Acting Principal)