Some events had to be cancelled or restructured due to the delayed start to the year. Therefore, our school's ANZAC Day parade on 22 April was even more special as the Student Leadership Executive was able to lead the school in remembering those who fought for our country in the First World War and conflicts onward. School principal Mr Kingma and School Captain Malcolm Balmer both made very moving addresses on the significance of ANZAC Day, while guest speaker, national serviceman and RSL secretary Allan Peterson, provided an interesting address to the students about his reflections on the ANZAC spirit.
Mr Richard Kelly and Mr Allan Petersen, invited guests from the RSL, then announced the winners of the ANZAC Day competition: Hayley Minuzzo and Georgia Howie. Talitha Carrol and Michael Finn received special mention. Students and guests then placed poppies of remembrance into the poppy board that was graciously created and donated by Mr Allan Petersen last year. After the Last Post, and the reading of the Ode by Caitlyn Swinney, all student representatives, teachers and invited guests were treated to refreshments in the library. Staff, students and guests from the Home Hill Sub-branch of the RSL, were also able to view and enjoy the library's ANZAC display, focused on the Australian who have sacrificed their life to service in recent years.
While many students took the challenge of attending the Dawn Service (where Malcolm Balmer redelivered his speech) and its following events, most of Home Hill High's cohort turned up to the ANZAC Day march. Students from all grades attended, with senior students stepping up to carry national flags important to the ANZAC history. The flag holders, school and several teachers then walked in the annual Home Hill parade, before assembling at the Memorial Park. Caitlyn Swinney gave an address on the importance of ANZAC Day to the younger generation. After other addresses, the wreath laying and the Last Post, those were treated to refreshments.
On ANZAC Day, we do our best to understand what commitment, service and freedom mean, and reflect on the values that so many have given their lives to protect.
LEST WE FORGET