Charlotte Rowe

Phoebe Russell

This year, it has been a pleasure to watch new and existing boarders flourish in the Boarding House. Our boarders have formed meaningful relationships with people from different Year levels and various backgrounds. During events such as the Closed Weekend, our involvement in Boarding socials and a trip to watch a game of AFL, we have been able to develop new connections between many girls both in and out of the Boarding House.  

We have also had the chance to learn and educate each other about our diverse cultural and personal backgrounds. During the year, we celebrated important cultural events from many different ethnicities such as Chinese New Year, Malaysian festivals, an Easter celebration, Thanksgiving, and an acknowledgement of Reconciliation Week.  

One of the most rewarding aspects of being Boarding House Captains has been witnessing the growth and development of our new boarders. Throughout the year, we supported them and observed their confidence growing and their sense of belonging deepening within the Boarding House and the classrooms.  

As Captains, we would have been unable to foster the inclusive and welcoming culture that has been created over the years at Illawarra without the unwavering support of Mrs Collister and the Boarding staff. We are endlessly grateful for their assistance with the organisation of events, and the guidance and advice they have provided for all students within Illawarra during the duration of 2023.