How do BCE schools commemorate ANZAC Day...
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As we approach ANZAC Day, Holy Cross School Wooloowin, Our Lady of Dolours School Mitchelton, and St Peter Chanel Primary School The Gap, stand ready to honour the sacrifices of our servicemen and women with their unique commemorative traditions.
Holy Cross School Principal Simon Mahaffy highlights his school's commitment to honouring ANZAC Day, paying tribute to the remarkable service of World War II veteran and former school volunteer Eddie Foster.
"Eddie's dedication extended beyond the battlefield, enriching the lives of thousands of Holy Cross School students with his passion for story time and supporting student learning,” Simon said.
"Eddie's generosity continued with a donation to our school.
“This generous gift allowed us to erect our beloved sports pavilion, now fondly known as The Eddie Foster Pavilion.”
Simon adds that his students actively take part in the ANZAC Day ceremony at Kalinga Park at Clayfield.
"Every year our school stands united with the community as we march in honour of our Defence personnel," he said.
“We lay a wreath to signify our deep appreciation for their sacrifices and the enduring legacy they have left for us all.
“Back at the school we host an ANZAC Day Liturgy for our students and families, with our Defence families taking a leading role in the commemorations.”
Our Lady of Dolours School Principal Tricia Howard said the school’s designated Defence Mentor Kerri Wilson plays an integral role in ANZAC Day commemorations.
“Kerri facilitates various initiatives leading up to ANZAC Day,” she said.
"Whether it's fundraising through ANZAC Day poppy sales, volunteering efforts such as assembling care packages for Defence personnel, or participating in commemorative services, we aim to foster connections and honour the Defence backgrounds of our students' families.
“With our school located just five-minute’s drive from the Gallipoli Barracks at Enoggera, the significance of ANZAC Day resonates deeply within our school community.”
Reflecting on their preparations St Peter Chanel Primary School Assistant Principal Religious Education Hayley Hadfield said ANZAC Day is close to the hearts of her school community.
“ANZAC Day holds a special place in our hearts, especially for many of our students who come from Defence families," she said.
"It’s a tradition at our school for all our students to make a poppy, which they proudly wear to our ANZAC Day Liturgy.
"As a school community we also take part in a march to the ANZAC Memorial at The Gap where our students lay a wreath.”