A chilly 5am wake-up call was the beginning of a hugely successful day.
Our muscles, toes and fingers complained about the cold early morning ride to Ararat.  The bushfire sunrise provided little warmth despite the intensity of red.  However, we agreed it is much easier riding than the heat.
We cruised into Ararat Community College for our first presentation to the yrs 8-11 in the gym.  No time for debrief as we jumped straight into workshops for the yr 9 students.
And we're off again!  Quickly down the road to the Marian College.  The library presentation to yr 9s was full of laughter and followed by lots of questions.

Lunch was provided by the "Justice and Democracy" group who shared their stories of fundraising for charities and raising awareness around the school community about social justice.  A favourite program for them is an exchange school trip to an indigenous school "tea tree" north of Alice Springs.
After lunch we again ran the workshops for 2 perios for the yr 9s.  Reports were positive and tour members felt they had really connected with the students and were thus inspired by Nanna naps and showers before dinner hosting by the lovely Valerie at Ararat CC.  Yr 9 parents and teachers joined for BBQ, salads and dessert.
Chats and stories were shared as a Yr 9 student provided some background guitar and piano tunes.
Tour members looking forward to a sleep in tomorrow!
Three cheers to Dylan for organising an amazing Ararat programme.  Hooray!
-Meg