What a day! Children busy running, jumping and throwing and having fun for three hours in the gorgeous winter sunshine.

The new Eastern oval was a perfect venue for the Junior Athletics Carnival where children competed in sprints, showed off their skills in long jump and did not give up in the tug of war and obstacle course. The parents proved to be pretty good at Tug Of War too! Tabloid activities involving throwing, running and teamwork kept children busy after lunch. Children were in mixed-aged house teams of about 14 children and showed fantastic team spirit and sportsmanship throughout the tabloid activities.

Sprint races were run over 60m and 80m distances which the children have been practicing during their PE lessons this term. Some great technique and fantastic speed were on display and children raced down the track. The winners and some second placegetters from the first races raced in a final to find the fastest in each Year level. There were many close races which kept the judges busy but also some great wins with several metres separating first and second. Everyone ran their best and parents enjoyed cheering the children on.

Throwing chickens into a parachute held by parents involved skill and accuracy and parents ducked for cover more than once. Squeezing through a long fabric tunnel was funny to watch as the tunnels looked like giant caterpillars as the children raced through trying to beat the opposing team. Water splashed everywhere as precious cups of water were sent flying by balls destined to hinder the best water carrying intentions. Brains were engaged as teams figured out the best way to build the tallest tower with wooden blocks. Flat and stable or upright and fragile were the decisions children made as they built their wonderful tallest creations.

At the end of the day, presentations were made to the winning house. The war cries were tremendous and resonated around Beerwah and the tents were decorated amazingly. Ararat took out the title of best house tent and war cry with passion oozing from every team member.

The final points were tallied and Zion was announced as the overall winning house team with Sinai in second and Ararat in third.

It was fantastic to have so many family members and friends encouraging our students during the day. This really helps children to do their very best. Parents who volunteered to lead teams were much appreciated and it was great to hear teams singing their house war cry when moving from one activity to the next. The teachers and teaching assistants were kept busy all day leading activities with heaps of enthusiasm and encouragement. Mrs Stott would like to give a big shout out and thanks to everyone who helped make this day such a success.

Wendy Stott

GCC Families can see all the photos here.