This week we have both completed Expo 2 which goes for 3 days and 2 nights. We were driven up to Mt. Hotham and then skiied 12km back to the school campus. Over the first day its 4.5km, the second 6km and the third 1.5km.

For the first night we stayed in Biathlon Hut which was at a shooting range, which we both enjoyed the environment as it had snowed quite a bit and at some places knee deep. The second night we stayed at JB hut, 2A (Sam’s Expo group) suffered windy conditions so it was a challenge that they all had to face as a team. 2B (Ellen’s expo group) weather conditions were slightly less challenging but it was still difficult to set up tents and the site in the cold.

The skiing at times was difficult as we had 20kg packs on going up some steep hills and downhills, there was also the job of keeping a look out for other skiers that were on the track. Cooking with the trangias can be difficult at times when you either have to cook in the dark or wait a long long time for the food to actually be ready to eat.

We both enjoyed the experience as it shows us just how much we can achieve in a different climate and with other people. But we are glad we are back at the alpine school as it feels like a home for most of us here.

Ellen and Sam - Student Leaders