ANZAC started on 22nd April at  Smithfield State High School Tropical North Learning Academy to lay a wreath in remembrance of our fallen servicemen and women ahead of ANZAC Day 2025.
The ceremony was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedoms, beautifully conducted by the school’s student leaders alongside dedicated members of the Australian Defence Force and community representatives.
It was particularly moving to see our younger generation’s commitment to preserving the ANZAC spirit of courage, mateship, and sacrifice. These students are ensuring these important values and memories continue to live on.

On 23rd April I attended two ceremonies. First up was at St Andrew’s Catholic College in Redlynch.

The students and staff conducted a thoughtful and respectful service that truly captured the spirit of remembrance. It was particularly special to meet the Battalina family who attended the ceremony and shared their personal connection to our ANZAC tradition.

 

These school ceremonies play such an important role in passing down the values of courage, sacrifice, and mateship to our next generation.
Watching young Australians engage so meaningfully with our national history gives me great hope for the future.
Next it was on to Peace Lutheran College alongside members of the Australian Defence Force.
The students and staff presented a respectful service that highlighted the importance of remembrance and the ANZAC values of courage and mateship. Having ADF personnel present added a meaningful dimension to the ceremony and helped connect students with our continuing tradition of service.
These school commemorations play a vital role in ensuring younger generations understand and appreciate the sacrifices made for our country.
On 24th April I attended three ceremonies with one of my team members also attending one ceremony on my behalf.
I was impressed by the exceptional ANZAC Day service at Trinity Beach State School. The student leaders took ownership of the ceremony with poise and confidence beyond their years.

 

What stood out most was the remarkable attention and respect shown by every child throughout the service – a testament to both the students’ understanding of the significance of the day and the school’s commitment to instilling these values.

Trinity Beach can be proud of how their young people are honouring our shared history.

It was a heartwarming moment at Caravonica State School, where students showcased their creativity and understanding through handcrafted wreaths for their ANZAC Day service.

The effort these young students put into creating their personal tributes demonstrated their genuine connection to this significant day in our national calendar.

 

It’s always refreshing to see each school community bring their unique approach to remembrance.

Attending the ANZAC ceremony at Redlynch State College was another  moving experience.

Wreaths were laid with care, each one a symbol of remembrance and respect.

After the ceremony, there was a lovely morning tea and I met with several studies and staff members. Sorry I had to dash out so quickly!

Then it was onto Newman Catholic College community in Smithfield  for their thoughtful ANZAC Day service, which, I will admit, I was very late for!
The ceremony was conducted with great reverence, with students demonstrating their understanding of this significant occasion.
It was also encouraging to see construction underway for the next stage of the school’s development. The growing campus reflects the strong community spirit that was evident throughout today’s commemoration.

Stay tuned for more ANZAC ceremonies tomorrow. Lest we forget.