ANZAC Day Assembly

Understanding ANZAC Day

On Friday, the 22nd of April, students and staff at Staughton College attended the ANZAC Day Assembly. This is an important occasion, held to commemorate the men and women who have served in our Armed Forces, those who have sacrificed for our freedom and way of life.

What is ANZAC Day? 

ANZAC Day – the 25th of April – is probably Australia's most important national occasion. It marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. The soldiers in those forces quickly became known as ANZACs, and the pride they soon took in that name endures to this day. 

What does it mean today?

Australians recognise the 25th of April as an occasion of national commemoration. Commemorative ceremonies are held at war memorials around the country at dawn – the time of the original landings. To commemorate ANZAC Day and reflect on the meaning of war and sacrifice, students and staff are also invited to display and be photographed wearing any service medals belonging to their family. 

On Friday, the 22nd of April, we had a whole school assembly where we were able to pay our respects to those who have fought for our country. It was a wonderful way for us as College Captains to voice the importance that such a day holds in our country and community. 

MAGGIE GATER

College Captain

Monday, the 25th of April, holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a day where I can give thanks to those who have fought for our country and remember those who didn’t make it home. This year the date marked 100 years of the RSL and fifty years since the landing at Long Tan, during the Vietnam War.

My grandfather (Raymond Pollock) is a Vietnam Veteran who was lucky enough to make it home. This is a very special day for him, as he gets to celebrate and remember his successful journey and remember those he was with. Maggie, Mert and I were lucky enough to stand by his side during the Melton march, which the Vietnam Veterans led. Zac was also marching with his Scouts group. 

Maggie, Mert, Zac and I were at the Dawn and Morning Services in Melton, along with Mr Lord, to lay a wreath in memory of those who are still battling over in Afghanistan and Iraq and to those who have fought for our country. 

CHELSEA POLLOCK

College Captain