School News

ANZAC Day

ANZAC Day Speech delivered to the community at the ANZAC Day Service.

Good morning. I am Evelyn, School Captain at Mount Beauty Secondary College. Lucy was unable to be here today, so I will speak for us both, on behalf of our school.

As a young person from our community, I would like to share what today means to me.

Most youth haven’t experienced anything like what the ANZACs went through, but we have grown up hearing their stories. Especially those with family who served, like myself, with both of my great grandfathers having served in the World Wars.

For me ANZAC Day is a reminder of several important things that we, as the next generation, must remember. It reminds us to appreciate the peace and opportunities we have now. It reminds us that the freedoms we take for granted came from people who were willing to serve and sacrifice. And it reminds us that values like courage, fairness, and looking after each other will always be relevant.

We honour the ANZACs by carrying their values forward in the way we live and the way we treat others. The choices we make each day, how we show respect, how we support those around us, and how we contribute to our community, are our way of recognising what they did and what they believed in.

I’d like to read an excerpt from the poem ‘Streets of ANZAC’ by veteran Stewart Elliot. Written in 2020 during the time of COVID lockdowns, the poem reflects on Elliot’s view of an ANZAC day restricted to his home, where his neighbours lit the street with candles and poppies to honour his service.

“They did all remember and they do really care

They wave and salute while he just stops and stares

Some children have handmade signs on his fence and the lawn

“We honour your sacrifice and service at the rise of the Dawn.”

The ANZAC Spirit will live on in the youth of today

With respect and honour as this is our way”

I chose this poem as it reminds me of the close knit community of our home here in Mount Beauty. Filled with compassionate people that care for each other and will take part in acts, big or small, that show their love for each other.

I believe ANZAC Day is also to recognise not only those who served in the past, but those who continue to serve today, and those who will step forward in the future. Their bravery, commitment, and willingness to put others before themselves remind us that service is not just something that belongs to history, it is something that will continue to shape and protect our country for ages to come.

As young people, it is our role to keep these stories alive and to learn from them, so that the meaning of ANZAC Day continues with us into the future.

Lest we forget

House Cross Country Run

On the very last day of Term 1 students participated in the House Cross Country Running competition. The weather was perfect for running or walking, and it was a great way to end the term, and start the holidays. Easter eggs were given out to bring a bit of cheer as well. Congratulations to all students who turned up and completed a lap of the pondage for their House. Age champions, and House champion will be announced at the upcoming Athletics Carnival.