Clontarf’s West Arnhem academies in Gunbalanya and Jabiru have opened 2026 with strong participation, consistent engagement and positive momentum across Term 1.
At Gunbalanya, academy members have set the tone early, with solid attendance and strong involvement across daily activities. The youngest cohort has made an immediate impact, showing commitment in their first term and helping drive a positive culture across the academy.
Consistency has been a standout, with many boys regularly attending school and taking part in academy activities. Participation beyond the classroom has remained strong, with morning training and after-school sessions continuing to build routine, connection and energy across the group.
Morning training has been a particular highlight, with strong turnouts reflecting the boys’ willingness to get involved and start the day well. These sessions, alongside after-school activities, continue to reinforce positive habits and strengthen relationships.
Off the field, academy members have also been building practical skills through hands-on activities. Cooking sessions during Crew Time have seen the boys prepare meals from start to finish, including shared breakfasts after training and trying new foods together. Taking responsibility for preparation, cooking and clean-up has supported independence, confidence and pride in their environment, while also bringing the wider school community together.
In Jabiru, the year has started with excellent participation at morning training, including one of the largest sessions in recent years. A joint session with Caulfield Grammar School brought strong numbers and high energy, with academy members fully engaged across both football and basketball.
These sessions continue to build routine and set a positive tone before the school day, with academy members embracing early starts, physical activity and shared experiences. The growing numbers reflect strong buy-in from the boys and support from partners.
Jabiru has also seen encouraging momentum among its senior cohort. The academy’s largest Year 12 group in years has begun 2026 with focus and purpose, recently attending the Clontarf Leadership Camp in Darwin and Batchelor. The camp provided opportunities to connect with other academies, engage with employers and take part in leadership development sessions.
Across both academies, the early months of 2026 have been defined by strong engagement, growing participation and a clear sense of momentum. Gunbalanya and Jabiru are well placed to build on this start as the year progresses.
