Earlier this term, the Year 2 Allied Health students visited the Body Worlds: Anatomy of Happiness Exhibition in Melbourne, gaining a rare and immersive insight into the structure and function of the human body. 

The exhibition featured real human specimens preserved through plastination, allowing students to observe anatomical systems in a clear, three-dimensional format.

Throughout the excursion, students explored all major body systems while examining how lifestyle choices can influence long-term health and happiness. The experience sparked thoughtful discussion, curiosity, and plenty of 'aha' moments as students connected classroom theory with real-world anatomical examples.

The exhibition ended with an interactive wall inviting visitors to finish the sentence “Before I die…”. Many responses focused on family, friends, and health, showing that what people value most is often simple and shared.

Students' reflections:

“The nervous system section allowed me to reflect on how stress can make such an impact on one’s life. It made me realise that I need to prioritise my health and take away factors that cause recurring stress.”

“My favourite part of the exhibition was the specimen with all of the joint replacements and surgical changes, including a pacemaker.”

“I was most surprised by the impact of smoking on the lungs. I didn’t think they would turn black.”

“Seeing the human body in person at full scale was really useful. The interrelationships between the body systems became obvious when you were seeing them holistically as part of the entire body.”