Welcome back to Term 2 after what I hope has been a lovely break for your daughters. There is a lot to look forward to in this coming term.

On 20 May, we will celebrate a very special Founders Day marking our 140th birthday. This significant milestone gives us the opportunity to reflect proudly on our legacy of innovation and exceptional education, underpinned by the enduring values which still define us today. Our students and staff will be joined on campus by Old Scholars for the Founders Day Assembly and a morning tea.

We look forward to other upcoming 140th anniversary celebrations as well. Throughout the year each girl will receive a special gift and limited-edition commemorative ribbons will be available to purchase this term, a unique addition to this year’s winter uniform and a special keepsake for all those who are part of this moment in Wilderness history. Tickets to the 140th Gala at the National Wine Centre on 14 September will be on sale soon, enabling our community a time to come together and celebrate.

Our global outlook has always been important, and during the holidays an adventurous group of students and staff have been fortunate to have the opportunity to once again explore Nepal, creating meaningful positive impact on a 22-day adventure.

The focus of the trip was the opportunity to provide community service at Bhadaure School - with which Wilderness has deep bonds. The familial connections with the staff and students at Bhadaure are incredibly meaningful and a trip highlight.

Additionally, the girls and staff completed a 14-day trek through Annapurna, a stay in Kathmandu, and a chance to relax and unwind in the lakeside town of Pokhara. It will be wonderful to have the group share their experiences with the wider Wilderness community upon their return.

As always, a reminder to be extra mindful of road safety as we return to campus to keep all of us safe.