An iconic experience for Mentors
June 24, 2026
Some days are magic. Some are memorable. Then there are days when you climb one of the world's most iconic landmarks.
For our new Mentor participants, who are Year 9 students, their Sydney Harbour Bridge climb was a once in a lifetime experience.
The bridge is already breathtaking from the ground, but when you're standing at the base, in a climbing suit and harness ready to climb, the excitement is bigger than the bridge itself.
The climb began with nervous laughter, cautious steps and the thrill of the view that was before them. It was a case of one foot after the other as they moved along the steel paths and ladders, climbing higher above the harbour. They could see the Sydney Opera House, the ferries and aspects of Sydney in every direction.
Then they heard an unforgettable story. Michelle Obama had climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge the same day. Here they were sharing the same sky-high adventure with the inspirational wife of a former US President.
At the summit, high above Sydney Harbour, it was powerful to hear stories about the people who risked their lives to build the bridge. It felt like the whole world had paused. The water sparkled below.
The experience was so special for our Mentors. Not just the climb, but the feeling it gave them. It reminded them that adventure has a way of lifting people up.
Stepping onto the bridge asks the same thing of everyone who does it: Be brave, keep going and enjoy the view.
By the time the group had returned to solid ground their legs may have been tired, but their spirits were sky high.
“We had taken in one of the best views in Australia and become part of a day made brighter with the knowledge that Michelle Obama had shared the same adventure that day,” they reflected.
“The climb was a reminder that unforgettable moments often happen when we step outside of our comfort zone and say yes to adventure.”
“We had taken in one of the best views in Australia and become part of a day made brighter with the knowledge that Michelle Obama had shared the same adventure that day,”
– Mentor participant
“The climb was a reminder that unforgettable moments often happen when we step outside of our comfort zone and say yes to adventure.”
– Mentor participant
The explore-and-experience Sydney camp provided many opportunities for adventure and growth in every participant. While representing Cottage and the Mentor Program interstate, they increased their independence, engaged with some important Cottage supporters, worked together as a group, extended their comfort zones and built confidence while exploring Sydney.
The Mentors and program leaders stayed near Bondi Beach and also visited Taronga Zoo.
