My time at Gnurad Gundidj was filled with so many new experiences and new opportunities. While there I was faced with many challenges that I soon overcame with confidence and encouragement from not only myself but others too. The program itself is quite an experience and it is led by the greatest people, they teach you how to lead and shortly after you develop skills to help you lead. Within weeks the walls that were once so plain, the people you didn’t know, and the fear of the unknown experiences, became filled with memories and the community formed quickly becomes a home. My biggest challenge was thinking I wasn’t going to fit in but within days that changed. 

Throughout the term we had numerous classes focused on creating and actioning our CLP plan. Our (Community Learning Project) is focused on helping the furry friends that need nurturing and a loving home. Out of everything this idea stuck out to us, it’s something that needs to be recognized in Geelong. Hundreds of animals go stray, end up at animal shelters and in some cases end up even worse. Our plan is to raise awareness at school and to get animal accessories so we can help the animals in need. I think about all the laughter that spread within the community like a contagious infection, all the moments even the little ones. 

Gnurad Gundidj will become a place you never want to leave; it’s a place where you feel safe and centred. If I had to choose a favourite memory, I wouldn’t be able to and that’s because every single minute I spent there (whether it be playing table tennis, canoeing, surfing, and reading) was something I will miss for eternity. I would recommend this experience to anyone and if you ever encounter a similar once in a lifetime opportunity take it - otherwise you will regret it.

- Maddy Barry (Year 9)