On a balmy Friday morning, the Holy Rosary masses ventured to the hidden gem that is Shoobridge Park to compete in the 2023 HRCS Cross Country Carnival. There was a sea of red, sky blue and yellow as the grades took to the course, a mild zephyr making the journey that much more enjoyable! The morning session saw our junior grades pounding the gravel and the turf in search of athletic glory. Red cheeks, furrowed brows of determination and the odd smile were evident throughout the races. The rabbits were somewhat surprised but could only watch on as these brightly coloured bipeds interrupted their usual, quiet morning feed.

As we moved into the afternoon session mother nature remained a positive figure in our lives as she kept the sun shining and the notorious afternoon coastal winds at bay. The grade 3-6 runners ran their hearts out, they faced a big intimidating course with nowhere to hide from the elements, the cheers from mums and dads, the inevitable dreaded stitch and of course there was the ongoing threat of turbo chooks attacking at every corner. All participants ran their hearts out and gained valuable points for their house. However, there could be only one winner and after 5 long years in the cross-country wilderness the D’Arcy Lions got over the line! A pair of victories in the Prep races pushed them to the top of the points table! 

A massive thanks to Wayti Culture and Knowledge for their amazing Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony. It was a great way to start the carnival down there on the banks of timtumili minanya (Derwent River). I'd like to thank Mr Damian Riza and his friend 'Stanley K' for their help in the morning and afternoon, our grade 6 House Captains and sports leaders for their efforts supporting our K-2s and Mr Camden Clark for providing the lukewarm hot chocolates in the morning. 

Mr Johnson