On the 19th of November, our crew of Sophie Bowmar, Annabelle Kelly, Mia Bohm and myself made an early start to the Rock and Pillar range near Middlemarch.

After a major weather warning in Glenorchy, Dr Macleod made the decision to go for an option that was safer but still just as fun! Along the Rock and Pillar Range were an array of tracks zig-zagging up the hillside. We had chosen to ascend to the ridge line then make our way along and down to Big Hut. However, this never happened. After a tough two hours of fighting the very strong winds, we made the decision to stop for an early lunch. The deal was that if the wind was better after we had finished, we would continue, but if it made a turn for the worse, then we would head back down. Sadly this was the case and we stumbled back down the track, steading each other in the angry wind.

Dr Macleod knew the farmers at the bottom of the hill and they kindly let us stay in their shearers’ quarters instead of our tents. I set up my sleeping bag and joined the game of ‘cheat’ (we are a pretty honest bunch if I do say so myself). Dinner came around fast with lots of different options ranging from pasta to dehydrated roast chicken with veggies. We hit the sack after our exciting day, dreaming of little lambs and matagouri.

“Morning girls, wake up, time to cook breakfast,” said Dr Macleod, opening the curtain and letting the light seep in. Breakfast was good – I was so full I didn't think I would be able to do my pack up. Putting the necessary gear into my pack, I waddled into the van. Our plan for the day was to get to Big Hut by the more direct route. We knew we could do it and we set off. To our dismay, this route wasn't a zig-zag but a vertical track following up the ridge. Three and a half hours later, after an intense 1000m climb, we reached the hut. We ate a lunch of salami, cheese and crackers, which taste so much better on the top of a mountain, and soaked up the views of the valley. It was covered by farmland that reminded me of a patchwork quilt with the glistening blue sea in the distance. “Wow, you girls should be proud,” exclaimed Dr Macleod. This made me realise that it was actually pretty cool to be up there and that I should be proud of not only myself but everyone.

Hold up one sec, I forgot the most insane part. Imagine watching this big cloud as black as a panther coming closer and closer… Then getting hit by little white balls of snow and hail. We made it back to the warmth and comfort of the van in record time. The drive back to town was left for unwinding and the occasional nap.

I just want to say thank you to the school and especially to Dr Macleod. This wouldn't have been possible without your planning and organisation. Secondly, thank you to the girls that came with me on this exceptional experience. It will be remembered forever.