Ulladulla High School

World Class Global Learners who achieve the Summit

Telephone02 4455 1799

Emailulladulla-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

High Country Excursion: A Journey to the Snow

students ringing the bell at the peak of thredbo

On Wednesday 21 August our adventure-seeking students embarked on the much-anticipated High Country Excursion. We set off bright and early at 7am from Ulladulla, eager to explore the winter wonderland that awaited us. Our first stop was in Cooma, where we delved into the fascinating world of renewable energy at the Snowy Hydro. Students were captivated by a video presentation detailing how the Snowy Hydro scheme generates energy and the innovative developments of Snowy 2.0. This was not just an educational experience; it sparked discussions about sustainability and the future of energy in Australia.

teacher on the slopes

We continued our journey to Jindabyne, where we conducted a town evaluation. This exercise allowed us to observe and understand how a small town supports the bustling snowfields. Students engaged in discussions about the town’s infrastructure, local businesses, and the impact of tourism on the community. Day 2 brought an early start as we made our way to Thredbo for a day on the slopes. Students participated in two hours of skiing and snowboarding lessons, eagerly learning the ropes from experienced instructors. Many began to master the art of controlling their skis and snowboards, particularly on the gentle slopes of Friday Flat. The excitement was palpable, and it was heartening to see everyone support one another, whether they were falling or mastering a new technique. Day 3 started with another early rise for breakfast and packing up our rooms. We geared up for an 8:30am lesson at the mountain. 

students at the Snowy Hydro Facility

After two more hours of instruction, the students were ready to explore different areas of the mountain. Some adventurous students and teachers made their way to the highest lifted point in Australia, ringing the bell at the summit—a truly memorable moment! Others chose to challenge themselves in the terrain park, testing their skills and stamina. Meanwhile, many students opted for the familiar comfort of Friday Flat, honing their newfound skills. As the day wrapped up, we began our long drive back to Ulladulla, stopping along the way for some dinner. We arrived back at school just before midnight, tired but filled with joy from an unforgettable adventure. The High Country Excursion was a fantastic blend of education and adventure, providing students with a unique opportunity to learn about energy production and experience the joys of winter sports.