From the Principal

Esteemed Australian novelist and poet, David Malouf, passed away on 22 April at the age of 92.  The significance of his passing so close to Anzac Day was not lost on many, given the impact Malouf’s powerful short novel, Fly Away Peter, has had on so many students across Australia.  I recall being one of those students myself many years ago. For those unfamiliar with the novel, Fly Away Peter is set on the quiet Queensland coast in 1914 and then in the mud of the Western Front in France.  The story follows Jim Saddler (employee), Ashley Crowther (sanctuary owner), and Imogen Harcourt (photographer) as their idyllic life on the Queensland coast is shattered by war. The contrast of peacefully naming birds in the Queensland wetlands to the horror of the trenches is explored.

For me, the story has always been a reminder that for every name read out at a memorial service there is also someone who watched birds, laughed with friends, had lifetime ambitions, and believed they would return home.

So it was this morning, that the College recognised the importance of Anzac Day during our Years 3 to 12 Anzac Day Service.  As we know, Anzac Day is a significant day that marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces.  It is also a day to reflect on the many different meanings of war, and I encourage you to read alumna and Federal Member of Parliament for Curtin, Kate Chaney’s moving reflection, which was shared during our Service.  See attached.

I extend my thanks to Ms Chaney MP for so generously giving of her time this morning and College Liturgist, Mary-Anne Lumley, for her expert organisation of our special Service during which the students demonstrated their deep respect and solemnity for this special occasion.  Thanks are also extended to our College Captains, Neve Thompson and Matt Mignacca, Faith and Mission Captains Poppy Finucane and Ruby Bogoias, Year 3 student, Josie Sibenaler, our student readers, musicians, choir and trumpeter, Adrian Kelly.

Lest we forget.

Daniel Mahon

Principal