Anzac Day - 25 April - is a significant day where Australians and New Zealanders pause to reflect on the service and sacrifice of our Defence Force. After commemorating via online services and activities last year, we were grateful to be able to come together as a campus for our annual Anzac Day Service in 2021.

The service, held on Friday, 23 April, was led by our Year 4 and 5 student leaders who presented with respect and dignity to honour the Anzacs. We welcomed special guests, Major Rebeca Polonski and Captain Braden Holmes who spoke to us about their roles within the Australian Army and the importance of honoring the service and sacrifice of every member of our Defence Force - past and present. Major Polonski and Captain Holmes ended their presentation by reading the story ‘Anzac Ted’, a poignant story about a well-worn teddy bear with an important story to tell.

After the service, Major Polonski and Captain Holmes visited each of the Prep - Year 2 classrooms and students were able to ask questions about being part of the Defence Force.

In the days leading up to Anzac Day, students participated in various activities including craft activities, picture story books, drawings and reflections to continue develop their understanding and respect for this important day in the Australian calendar.

“When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today” Written by John Maxwell Edmonds.

Keshia Mitchell - Head of Student Wellbeing P - 2 (Donnybrook)