Anzac Day Assembly

In 2023, I was fortunate enough to be appointed as a Shrine of Remembrance Young Ambassador. Under this role, I met with key dignitaries and was required to represent all Victorian youth at a variety of commemorative ceremonial events held at the Shrine. A highlight of this role, and what I feel was also the most valuable and significant part of my experience were the conversations I had with veterans, Shrine governors, and the families of those who had served, which gave me a greater appreciation of the sacrifice and legacy behind days such as Anzac Day. A core theme that emerged from these conversations and the events I attended was courage.

I came to understand that in the face of brutal conditions and intense conflict, the Anzacs and their families displayed extraordinary bravery, resilience, and a sense of mate-ship. They endured long periods of uncertainty and sacrifice, often far from home, yet continued to act with determination and a strong commitment to one another. They also showed profound selflessness in risking their own lives for the good of others and maintained an enduring strength that allowed them to keep going even when faced with unimaginable circumstances. As such, the Anzacs showed an incredible ability to face their fears and difficulties head on in spite of danger and pain, maintaining a strong sense of courage.

This is the same value of courage that we strive to uphold within our school community. While our challenges may look very different to the Anzacs, their courageous spirit can be embodied by each one of us in the way in which we support one another, step outside our comfort zones, and take responsibility for our actions. Whether that’s being the first to ask a clarifying question in class, seeking extension work to deepen your learning or standing up for a friend, there are many opportunities in our daily lives where we can reflect the same spirit of bravery and endurance demonstrated by the Anzacs. In this way, I believe that the meaning behind Anzac Day extends beyond remembrance but also serves as a reminder of the values we can embody in our own lives.

I would now like to introduce our guest speaker for this assembly, Lieutenant Colonel David Blackwell.

David joined the Army through National Service in 1967 and was allocated to the Royal Australian Infantry Corps. He was promoted Sergeant before he left the service to peruse tertiary studies. He later re-enlisted into Officer training and was commissioned into the Australian Intelligence Corps in 1980. He later transferred to the Royal Australian Infantry Corps and held sub-unit commands in the 5th/6th Battalion and Melbourne University Regiment. He was promoted Lieutenant Colonel in 1973 where he assumed unit command of the Monash University Regiment and later instructing at the Army Command and Staff College. David was appointed Chief Marshal of the Anzac Day Commemoration Council from 2007 to 2017 to undertake the planning, management and command of the Melbourne Anzac Day Ceremonies. David was appointed a Shrine Governor in 2023. I would now like to officially welcome David Blackwell to provide our ANZAC day address.

Regards, 

Caitlin F