Year 8 Central Australia Camp

Last week, the Class of 2029 set off on their inaugural journey to Central Australia — a week filled with iconic landscapes, sacred homelands, and unforgettable memories (including those legendary bus rides!). ✨
Liv R:
Last week, our Year 8 cohort went to the annual Uluru camp, which was one of the best experiences of my life. Our activities included biking around the famous Uluru, hiking Kings Canyon, learning more about Aboriginal cultural traditions and much more. My favourite parts of the camp were taking photos with my friends and meeting Steve, who was the best bus driver. Some of the beautiful places we went to were the Garden of Eden and the Lost City. It was such a special trip—whether it was going to watch sunsets in the evening or exploring art techniques with the local Aboriginals.
Liv B:
The Year 8 cohort got to experience the amazing trip to Uluru. This trip is an unforgettable one with many breathtaking activities such as camping under the stars at Kings Canyon and Uluru, walks around Kings Canyon, and experiencing the lush oasis Garden of Eden. The exceptional bike ride. Actually seeing Uluru. And how could anyone forget the memorable bus rides and brilliant karaoke. I am beyond grateful to have had this experience with all my friends and some of the best teachers!
Camilla T:
This year, our Year 8 cohort were fortunate enough to embark on the Beyond Boundaries Central Australia camp from the 5th to the 9th of May. It was a truly unique experience that brought learning about different cultures, having stunning photo opportunities, and experiencing Uluru and Kings Canyon with all our friends. Each night, we walked across a path to view the beautiful sunset of Uluru. It was an incredible sight to see—‘The Great Pebble’ known as Uluru standing out in front of the gradient of orange, dusty pink and red in the sky as the sun set.
Margaret S:
This year, Year 8 had the incredible chance to explore Central Australia, from the iconic Uluru to the stunning sunsets and vast landscapes. We hiked through Kings Canyon, admired the rock formations, and experienced the peaceful silence of the Garden of Eden. We also connected with Indigenous culture by creating meaningful bracelets passed down by elders. The journey challenged us with early mornings, long hikes, and hot sun, but it brought us closer together as we supported, laughed, and shared unforgettable moments. These memories will stay with us forever!
Ebby E:
This year, 72 students got the opportunity to embark on the weeklong Year 8 Central Australia camp. I was fortunate enough to be one of these students and I can certainly say that it was a very memorable experience. It was full of long bus journeys, amazing views, Indigenous culture and lots of fun. As I look back on this unforgettable trip, I realise just how much I learnt about myself and my friends. There were ups and there were downs but, in the end, I made enough memories to last a lifetime. From watching the sun go down behind Uluru as we drank sparkling apple juice like it was champagne, to hiking up the endless steps of King’s Canyon and cackling over silly jokes as we ate Di’s delicious food. This might just have been the most unforgettable experience I will ever have!
Emily L:
So grateful for the chance to visit Central Australia this term ✨ An unforgettable experience, connecting with friends, nature, and learning so much about Uluru and the desert landscape.
Biking around Uluru and camping under the stars with friends, watching the sunset every night—pure magic ❤️
Chloe M:
On Monday 5 May, our Year 8 class embarked on an unforgettable 5-day trip to Central Australia! From hiking Kings Canyon to biking around the iconic Uluru, every day was filled with adventure, breathtaking views, and memories to last a lifetime. ️♂️
Day 1: Early start, flight check-ins, tent setup, and a stunning sunset.
Day 2: Challenging but rewarding 5-hour hike around Kings Canyon – the views were worth every step!
Day 3: A scenic drive to our next campsite, followed by more sunset vibes.
Day 4: Bike riding around Uluru and a peaceful 45-minute walk around the majestic rock.
Day 5: A few hours on the bus, soaking in the views, then back to Melbourne with hearts full of memories. ✈️
This trip was an adventure of a lifetime, and I’m already counting down the days until I can go back!
Voula H:
We went to Central Australia and explored some truly breathtaking places ✨
From Kings Canyon to the Garden of Eden
We went on so many adventures and made unforgettable memories—especially on the bus
We learned so much from Steve and took countless sunset photos
Kindness is effortless.
Alexandra P:
Our Year 8 trip to Uluru was an unforgettable adventure that not only deepened our connection to Australia’s cultural heritage but also strengthened the bonds among us as classmates. From the moment we arrived, the sheer magnitude of Uluru left us in awe. We embarked on guided walks around the base, where we learned about the spiritual significance of the rock to the Anangu people, the traditional owners of the land. These experiences were complemented by art workshops and storytelling sessions, providing a holistic understanding of the region’s heritage.
Looking back, the trip to Uluru was more than just an educational excursion—it was a journey that brought us closer together, fostering friendships that continue to thrive long after our return.
Grace H:
The Year 8 cohort went on camp to Central Australia and it was an amazing experience. One of the most exciting parts of the trip was visiting Uluru—it was a lot bigger than expected! Seeing it in person was incredible, but at sunset it looked even better. During our visit we learned about the Indigenous culture and the significance of Uluru. We saw Aboriginal rock paintings and listened to Dreamtime stories.
One of the most memorable moments was watching the sunset over Uluru on the last night when we were braiding each other’s hair. As the sun set, the rock changed colours. We also went on a hike through Kings Canyon, which was another highlight. The walk was challenging at the start because there was a huge hill, but the views from the top were amazing—we also got some great photos.
Overall, the camp to Alice Springs was an experience that our cohort will never forget.
Jessica D:
Still thinking about how unforgettable our Central Australia trip was. From hiking through Kings Canyon to walking beside Uluru, every moment was filled with memories I’ll never forget. I got to connect with my friends and classmates, learn about Aboriginal culture and stories, and even made a bracelet out of gumnuts. We all laughed, cried and had so much fun. I am so grateful for this experience and the amazing people who made it happen.
Nicole Y:
Just got back from the Year 8 2025 camp at Uluru! ️ One thing I can’t stop thinking about? Climbing the mountain (I think it’s called Kata Tjuta?), and the view from the top—absolutely breathtaking! The experience was next level, and the scenery? Unreal. If you haven’t seen it for yourself, you NEED to!
Coco W:
The Year 8 Central Australia camp was an unforgettable trip. We biked around Uluru, hiked through Kings Canyon, and learned about Aboriginal culture through art and a bracelet-making session. The red desert landscapes were stunning, but watching the sunset each night made it even better. It was a camp to remember forever.