Thursday, 05 March 2026, delivered the kind of day you wish you could bottle — sunshine, excitement, and unforgettable firsts for a remarkable group of students who attend the Polly Farmer Foundation Programs on the remote Groote Eylandt Archipelago in the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Arriving in Sydney from Canberra, the students were full of energy after already enjoying a rich and engaging visit to the nation’s capital, where they explored iconic attractions and took part in meaningful educational experiences. Just days earlier, they had even stepped inside Parliament House and met Prime Minister Anthony Albanese — an incredible highlight that set the tone for what was quickly becoming a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Behind the Scenes at the Sydney Swans
The next chapter of their adventure took them inside the world of elite sport with a private, behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Swans.
For nearly two hours, the students were immersed in areas rarely seen by the public — from the media room and meeting spaces to the locker rooms and even the players’ recovery zones. The highlight? Without a doubt, the ice baths. For many of these students, the concept of plunging into icy water was completely foreign. There was laughter, hesitation, and plenty of courage as they tested the waters — quite literally — dipping their legs into the freezing baths before quickly retreating to warmer comfort. It was a small moment, but one filled with curiosity, bravery, and shared joy.
The experience didn’t stop there. The group enjoyed kicking a football on the indoor training oval, shooting hoops, and even meeting both current and former coaches — a rare and inspiring opportunity. The tour concluded in the club’s museum, where students came face-to-face with premiership cups and the rich history of the Swans, bringing the legacy of the game to life.
First AFL Game: A Night of Pure Magic
And just when it seemed the day couldn’t get any better — it did.
That evening, the students attended their very first Australian Football League match. The atmosphere was electric. Over 40,000 fans packed the stadium as the season opener between the Sydney Swans and the Carlton Football Club kicked off.
As the players burst through the banner and the siren rang out, the roar of the crowd was something truly unforgettable. For students who had never experienced anything like it, the scale, noise, and energy of the game were overwhelming in the best possible way. Dressed proudly in their Sydney Swans colours, the group cheered with passion and excitement — and were rewarded with a convincing Swans victory to cap off the night.
More Than Just a Day
This wasn’t just a sightseeing experience. It was a day of exposure, inspiration, and connection — from the halls of government to the heart of Australian sport. It was about stepping into new environments, trying new things, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
For these students from Groote Eylandt, this will be remembered not just as a great day, but as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when opportunity, support, and experience come together.
At Away We Go Tours, our destination specialists are not just school travel consultants — they are dedicated partners who provide ongoing support and guidance every step of the way. With student experiences at the heart of everything we design, we are committed to creating meaningful, engaging, and memorable opportunities for schools and teachers across Australia.
