On the Run

At Junction Park State School there have been three athletic carnivals so far this year, and there are more to come. Maybe this has something to with the fact that it never really gets cold here and as a result Australians can do more outside activities. Whatever the reason, one thing is for sure, they love their carnivals and make them a big part of the school culture. I enjoy going to these events - they are festive, full of team spirit, and just an all-around positive experience for the kids.

The school is divided into three Houses - Dempsey, Fisher and Harvey - named after past school principals. Students are assigned to one of these houses when they first come to Junction Park and stay with that house until they leave. Gemma and Ruben are in Fisher. Kids anoint themselves in their house's colours by painting their faces, dying their hair and proudly wearing their house shirts. The Carnival day is filled with festive noise: the hail of the megaphone calling kids to the start line, the crack of the starting pistol, the cheering for your teammates and singing (or perhaps shouting) out war cries louder than the last house.

So far each of the carnivals have had something to do with running - the first was cross country, where the entire school participated in the event together; the second and third were senior and junior Athletics (track and field to us Canadians).

The senior times are recorded and used to determine whether they will move onto the Districts - the next level of race meets. Gemma made it to the Districts for both Cross Country and Athletics (she made it for the 100m, 200m, 800m and Long Jump). In fact she was named "Ten-year-old Girls' Champion" for this year.

In August, the Athletics' District meet was held at the ANZ Stadium - the same place where athletes participating in the 1982 Commonwealth Games practiced for their events. It was a great experience to race at an official venue, adding an element of nerves and excitement to the day.

Being on an exchange, rooted in a community, has given our family some rich opportunities. We are able to share our experiences and make connections with a variety of people in the community.

Until next time,
love H, D, G and R