WHAT a pleasure to head to Mt Stirling with Mansfield Steiner Class 1 and 2 children for their first ski day last week.
As the bus climbed the muddy road to TBJ, the children drew pictures on the foggy windows and tried to spy the first signs of snow.
My favorite question, “When will we get there?” increased in frequency before being replaced by shrill cries, “Snow! snow! snow!”
By the time the bus reached TBJ, the ground was blanketed.
The children crunched their way across the carpark carrying bags, heavy with hot chocolate, excitement (and some nerves).
Many were desperate for morning tea after the deprivation of not being allowed to eat on the bus and the thought of hot chocolate needing to be tested.
Once kitted out and into their groups, the students began (or continued) the journey to becoming competent cross-country skiers.
Usually, this involves a fair amount of falling, getting up … and then falling again.
It was so good to see them exercising determination and to watch their rapid improvement.
Most importantly, there was just so much joy and magic for them playing in the snow-covered forest.
Tuesday and Wednesday saw the older and now more capable Class 3, 4 + 5 students continue with their Mt Stirling experience and growing cross-country confidence that allows them to explore the entire mountain.
Our Year 7 & 8 Classes went to Mt Buller for a different type of snow experience, three days of downhill skiing.
Snow Play facilitated an excellent stay in a lodge on the mountain and with fresh snow and bluebird days, the conditions were close to perfect.
Year 9 will soon depart for the Bogong High Plains as part of the 50 days they will spend on our outdoor program throughout the year.
They will carry packs on skis and camp in the snow in whatever conditions they meet.
The three nights in this wild place will be an experience that will stay with them for life.
We are grateful that our students can enjoy this winter experience.
We live in a beautiful place that allows us to be immersed and appreciate the distinct and changing seasons.
Our classes experience the mountains in all conditions that the High Country is famous for.
Thank you to the parents and staff whose time and effort make the ski program possible.
