Anzac Day 2022
Anzac Assembly
On Wednesday, 27 April, staff and students began the term with an ANZAC Day Assembly. It was a blessing to be able to join together for this special occasion to reflect on the sacrifice of the ANZACs, and the many men and women who have faithfully served and defended our nation as part of the Australian Defence Force.
A special thank you to LTCOL Jamie Martin for delivering a thought-provoking address that encouraged students to consider why we commemorate ANZAC Day and what it tells us about who we were, who we are, and who we aspire to be. LTCOL Martin encouraged us to consider ways we can serve others and sacrifice our needs for those around us. In this way, we can show the love of Jesus, and honour those who sacrificed much to preserve our way of life. A full transcript of LTCOL Martin’s address may be found at the following link.
Over the past couple of years, primary classes have had the opportunity to get to know veterans who live in our local area. On Wednesday, we were privileged to be joined by two World War II veterans, Mr Alfred Marcquis (better known as Rusty) and Mr John Close. It was lovely to see Rusty and John connect with members of our school community and, in meeting each other for the first time, realise that they had served together in the Battle of Tarakan in 1945. Our thoughts and prayers were with those who were unable to be with us on the day.
The catafalque party was a highlight of the service and consisted of students who are members of the Australian Defence Force Cadets, Ryllie, Alana, Tyler, Justin and Charley. They were supported by their commanding officers, LEUT Vicki Pearn, ANC, LT Neil Barrett, ACC and CPO Rhys Pearn, ANC who showed them the ropes.
Under the direction of Mrs Lawrence, the Concert Band performed Abide With Me and the New Zealand and Australian national anthems, accompanied by outstanding vocals from Kayleigh W. It was also a good opportunity to meet Mr Jack Contencin, who will shortly take on the role of Concert Band Director at NCS. This year, one of our own, Hayley E, played the Reveille, alongside Mr Peter Williams who played The Last Post.
It was wonderful to be joined by the many special guests who attended our service, including Mr Barry Tait who represented the Nowra RSL, members of the Australian Defence Force and parents and carers.
Anzac Day Commemoration Services
It was a privilege to be able to attend the 2022 Greenwell Point Dawn Service and Nowra March as a school community. After two years of cancelled ANZAC Day services, it was wonderful to see so many veterans, Defence Force members, community groups and families attending these services and showing their support for those who have served as part of the Australian Defence Forces.
Our school prefects attended both services, with Alec, Jonathan, Bethany and Eden laying wreaths. Despite the constant drizzling rain at the Nowra March, it was a memorable day for all involved.
Thank you to the students, parents, carers and staff members who represented Nowra Christian School or marched at various services across the Shoalhaven. Lest We Forget.
