Student Leadership

Dear Saltwater Community, 

The Year Five to Nine Student Leaders were given the honour of attending Melbourne Legacy's 93rd Annual ANZAC Commemoration. 

After the long weekend, due to ANZAC Day falling on a Friday, forty students represented our school with pride at the Shrine of Remembrance. They joined other Secondary and Primary school students from Victoria in keeping the ANZAC Spirit alive by commemorating the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served our country. 

The experience was a moving reminder of the many layers of sacrifice made by those who served our country. Among the many stories shared, that of Captain Reginald 'Reg' Saunders stood out. A proud Gunditjmara man from western Victoria, Reg Saunders was the first Aboriginal Australian to be commissioned as an officer in the Australian Army. He served with distinction during World War II and the Korean War, demonstrating exceptional leadership and resilience.​

Despite his exemplary service, upon returning home, Reg faced significant discrimination. He was denied benefits afforded to other veterans, such as land grants under the Soldier Settlement Scheme, and encountered systemic racism in everyday life. His experiences highlight the paradox of fighting for freedoms abroad that were not fully realised at home. ​

Witnessing students from various schools pay their respects through military stances, song, and poetry was deeply moving. Their heartfelt tributes not only honoured the sacrifices of all who served but also underscored the importance of remembering and learning from our history.​

In the student reflections below, you will see that this experience not only honoured the sacrifices of all who served but also underscored the importance of remembering and learning from our history.​

Mikayla Armstrong – Year 6F

On Monday the 28th of April, my fellow leaders of Years 5 to 9 and I went to the Shrine of Remembrance. We got to participate in a tour of heaps of enclosed, war related items that were used, kept, and savoured. There were old stories told, and a lot of facts were produced in a short period of time, and everyone got the chance to look at many items. Not only did we get to paste images in our head, but we also experienced the knowledge of knowing what World War 2 was like. It was so fun and interesting and for me personally, I highly recommend going to all readers.

Devansh Bansal, Year 8A

Maitri TRIVEDI – Year 9A

Lest we forget.

Thank you,

Ms Grenfell and Mr Mernik