ANZAC Day

ANZAC Commemoration Service

Last week our school community gathered for a deeply moving ANZAC Day ceremony, led by the VM (Vocational Major) students from John Paul College. It was a beautiful display of respect, reflection, and unity across our schools.

 We are incredibly proud of our St John’s students, those who were respectful audience members and those who read their parts of the service. Working alongside the JPC student leaders, they guided our community through the  ANZAC Requiem, heartfelt prayers for global peace, and a memorable recitation of the 1942 poem, A Brown Slouch Hat.

A highlight of the morning was a special address by Mr. Barry Smith, a Vietnam Veteran. Mr. Smith generously shared his time with us, speaking poignantly to the students about the true meaning of ANZAC Day and reflecting on the historic arrival of the first Australian and New Zealand soldiers at Gallipoli on April 25th, 1915.  Most importantly, he conveyed the human cost and reality of war and the profound truth that is all too easily missed when we only view conflict through our screens.

The comprehensive service allowed students to engage deeply with the traditions of this important national day, featuring:

• An explanation of the symbols of remembrance, including rosemary and the red and purple poppies.
• The laying of tributes by student leaders and special guests.
• The solemn recitation of The Ode.
• The sounding of The Last Post, followed by a highly respectful minute of silence.

We extend a huge thank you to Mr. Barry Smith, the JPC VM students, and all our St John's readers for providing such a fitting tribute to the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country.

Lest We Forget.