From the Principal
Tomorrow marks 105 years since WWI ended with the signing of the Armistice at 11am on 11 November. Today, our thoughts turned to the significance of Remembrance Day, a day of reflection and gratitude when our College community joins together to honour those who have sacrificed so much for peace and freedom.
During this morning’s Remembrance Day Assembly on our Chapel Lawn, students and staff were encouraged to reflect on the sacrifices made by countless individuals during times of conflict, as well as the importance of our ongoing commitment to peace and justice.
Our guest speaker for this year’s assembly was our very own Head of the History and Social Science Learning Area, Christopher Morris. During his speech, Chris spoke eloquently about Private Walter Parker, the first indigenous person (that we know of) who lost their life in an overseas war.
For interest, please see an excerpt below of Chris’ speech.
“…..This morning, whilst in the Noongar season of Kambarang – ‘the season of birth’, I would like to spend some time reflecting upon the life of Private Walter Parker, an Indigenous Australian soldier who served in the Boer War and carried the Service Number of 140. He is believed to be the first known Indigenous soldier to die while serving overseas for Australia.
Private Parker was born in Gingin, Western Australia, on July 6, 1874. His mother, Mary Benyup, was a Noongar woman, and his father, Joseph Mortimer, was a stockman.
Despite facing discrimination and prejudice, Parker was determined to serve his country. He enlisted in the Australian military in 1901 but was initially rejected. He tried again and was eventually accepted into the 5th Western Australian Mounted Infantry Contingent.
Parker's unit arrived in South Africa in March 1901. He served in several campaigns and was involved in a number of battles. British logistics throughout the war were poor, and clean water was hard to come by. More than half of the Australian soldiers who died in South Africa died of illness. Parker fell ill and was taken to a military hospital in the town of Standerton. He had contracted typhoid fever, his condition worsened, and he died at Standerton on 22 January 1902, aged 27.
Parker's story remained a mystery for many years. It was not until 2022 that he was identified as the first known Indigenous soldier to die while serving overseas for Australia. His name has now been added to the Australian War Memorial's Indigenous Boer War list. This list contains the names of 10 Indigenous soldiers, 2 from Western Australia.
Parker's legacy is important to all Australians. He is a reminder of the significant contributions that Indigenous Australians have made to the Australian military. He is also a reminder of the challenges that Indigenous Australians have faced in serving their country, including discrimination and prejudice.
Unfortunately, the treatment of Indigenous soldiers did not improve after the Boer War. In World War One, for example, First Nations soldiers were often denied medical treatment for injuries sustained in battle. They were also discharged from the military at a higher rate than non-Indigenous soldiers, and they were less likely to receive medals and other awards for their service.
After the First World War, First Nations’ serving soldiers were often denied access to government programs that were designed to help veterans reintegrate into civilian life. They were also more likely to be unemployed and homeless than non-Indigenous veterans.
The lack of recognition and benefits for First Nations veterans continued after World War Two. In fact, some of the most discriminatory policies were implemented after this war. In 1949, the government introduced the War Service Homes Act, which provided loans to war veterans to purchase homes. However, First Nations veterans were excluded from this scheme.
The lack of recognition and benefits for First Nations veterans had a devastating impact on their lives and the lives of their families. It also sent a clear message to First Nations people that they were not valued or respected members of Australian society.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to recognise and honour the contributions of First Nations soldiers. The Australian War Memorial has established a special gallery dedicated to First Nations service, and there have been a number of documentaries and books published on the subject.
However, there is still much more that can be done. We need to ensure that all First Nations veterans have access to the medical care, housing, and pensions that they deserve. We also need to educate the Australian public about the important role that First Nations people have played in the nation's military history….”
They shall not grow old,
as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
and in the morning
We will remember them.
Daniel Mahon
Principal
John XXIII College Council: Finance and Risk Committee
The College Council is establishing a pool of qualified and interested College parents from which to appoint an additional member to the Finance and Risk Committee, commencing in Term 1, 2024. Currently, we are seeking candidates with skill sets in the information technology, and risk management areas. We encourage all parents with the relevant skill sets to express their interest.
The Committee's responsibilities are to provide support to the College Council and College Principal in monitoring and reviewing the College budget, financial statements, risk management and compliance, and other related matters. Meetings are held bi-monthly, generally early on a Wednesday morning. This is a great opportunity to get involved in the governance of the College.
Initial inquiries and expressions of interest to join the pool of candidates should be directed to the College Business Manager, Mr John Cumming, by Friday, 24 November 2023.
Email: john.cumming@cewa.edu.au
Phone: (08) 9383 0402
Kindergarten 2026 & Year 7 2027 Interviews
Enrolment interviews for our Kindy 2026 and Year 7 2027 cohorts will take place early next year. If you have a child entering these year groups and would like them to be considered for a place at John XXIII College, please ensure you have completed an enrolment form.
If you are unsure if you have submitted an application, or if you have any questions about the enrolment process, please contact our College Registrar, Allison Falconer, at enrolments@johnxxiii.edu.au