This week, students who participated in the recent five-day Lake Mungo Immersion gathered with Principal Steven Mifsud, Assistant Principal Student Wellbeing Andrew Robertson and First Nations Officer Alex Jameson to share stories, insights, and reflections from their time on Country. The conversation marked a meaningful conclusion to an experience that has easily become a highlight of the year for those involved.

The Lake Mungo Immersion with Red Earth is designed to deepen students’ understanding of Australia’s First Nations histories, cultures, and ongoing connections to land. Throughout the trip, students explored the World Heritage–listed Mungo National Park, walked across ancient lakebeds, learned from Traditional Owners about ancestral artefacts and narratives, and spent time contemplating the vast timeline of human presence in the region.

During yesterday’s gathering, Principal Mifsud invited the students to reflect on the personal and communal significance of their experience. Many spoke about the profound sense of history they felt while standing at Mungo’s iconic lunette, where discoveries such as Mungo Man and Mungo Lady have reshaped understanding of human history. Others shared how the immersion helped them appreciate the importance of cultural preservation, storytelling, and humility when learning from Elders and Custodians of Country.

Students also discussed the challenges and joys of the journey: long days outdoors, the value of teamwork, moments of quiet reflection under expansive night skies, and the strengthened connections formed within the group. Several noted that the immersion encouraged them to think differently about their role in reconciliation and how they can bring these lessons back to Damascus and the wider community.

Principal Mifsud expressed pride in the students’ maturity and openness, emphasising that the school’s immersion experiences are not simply trips, but catalysts for personal growth and deeper understanding.

At the end of the session, one theme resonated clearly: Lake Mungo offered far more than breathtaking landscapes, it offered perspective. The learnings gained will continue to shape these students long after the sand has settled from their shoes.

We commend the students who shared their reflections so openly and thank the staff from Damascus and Red Earth who helped make the immersion possible.