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Last week, the entire Year 5 cohort embarked on a two-day excursion to Sovereign Hill in Ballarat, an immersive open-air museum that brings the 1850s gold rush era to life. From the moment we arrived, it felt as though we had stepped back in time. The streets were lined with historical buildings, and actors in period costume moved through the town, creating a vivid and realistic atmosphere.

Our experience began with a tour of the Red Hill Mine, where we ventured underground to learn about the harsh and dangerous conditions miners faced in their search for gold. We then had the opportunity to try gold panning ourselves in the creek, and to our excitement, some students even discovered tiny specks of real gold. Throughout the day, we explored various trades and crafts, including candle making and sweet-making demonstrations, which gave us insight into everyday life in the 1850s.

After a traditional-style dinner, we reflected on what we had learned, surrounded by the historic setting. On the second day, we visited the Chinese Camp and the Gold Museum, where we deepened our understanding of the cultural diversity and challenges of the goldfields.

As night fell, we were treated to the AURA Sound and Light Show, a 90-minute immersive experience that illuminated the night sky with stunning projections and 3D animations. The show began with the Wadawurrung creation story, soaring over Sovereign Hill’s Lake, and then transported us through the cosmos to the gold rush era. We witnessed the gritty story of gold, including rebellion, gunfights, triumphs and tragedies, all brought to life through high-tech projections and sound effects.

The excursion was both educational and engaging, allowing us to connect with history in a meaningful and memorable way. Spending the two days together as a whole year level made the experience even more enjoyable and enriching. Sovereign Hill truly brought the gold rush era to life, and it is an experience we will not soon forget.

- Ms Martina Gawro