ANZAC Day

Mornington Secondary College has a long-standing tradition of honouring the ANZAC’s through a whole school commemoration concluding at the Avenue of Honour recognising the lives lost from the Mornington community. This year, the service was supported by Minister for Veterans Affairs, Mr Tom McIntosh MP, Member for Mornington, Chris Crewther MP, Briars Ward Councillor MPSC, Councillor Despi O’Connor, Mornington District Basketball Association Ms Sam Brown and Ms Deb Kruger. Local heroes, and organisations such as, Lions Club of Dromana, Rotary Club of Mt Martha and Mornington, Freemason Grand Lodge of Victoria and Bunnings Mornington, along with representatives from the Department of Education Mr Simon Hamilton and Mr Stan Szuty were also present. Students from Mornington Park Primary School and Bentons Junior College came to lay a wreath.

A big thank you to the award-winning Police Pipe Band that attend every year.

It is especially admirable to see the involvement of the College’s students in the service, with Year 12 Captains, Jessica Randall and Eden Parry along with Vice Captain Hamish O’Shea guiding the ceremony. Year 7 students served as flag bearers, and the Drum Corps leading the way. It was also inspiring to have the performances of students Baden Southurst and Teagan Williams, who added to the solemnity and dignity of the service.

Principal, Linda Stanton’s speech highlighted the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers throughout history, providing stories about individuals, added a personal touch to the service and made it more meaningful for the attendees. The Avenue of Honour ceremony that follows the service is a fitting tribute to the local men and women who have fought and died for our country’s freedom. The laying of wreaths was a poignant moment of remembrance.

It is heartening to see our school community come together to honour and remember the service men and women who have given so much for their country, along with those who still give their life to ensure our freedom. The service is a testament to Mornington Secondary College’s school values and commitment to instilling a sense of responsibility and respect in its students towards their country and its heroes.

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. 

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, 

We will remember them.”

Lest We Forget.