Monday 29 April, 2019.
For 64 years the Newcastle and Hunter Combined Schools ANZAC Commemorative Service has provided a unique platform for Hunter students to learn about the sacrifices made by Australian service men and women. It has given students the opportunity to present a moving performance based on local ANZAC stories.
Newcastle Permanent has supported this important education initiative for 17 years and is committed to contributing to the opportunities the event offers students to learn about the ANZAC legacy.
In 2019 two services were held during the last week of Term 1, at Newcastle’s Civic Theatre and Singleton’s Civic Centre. Organised by a sub-committee of Year 11 students from public, Catholic, and independent schools, participating students researched the incredible stories of local ANZACs and produced a performance for their peers from Years 5 to 9.
The theme this year was ‘In the Service of Peace’ honouring the vital roles and responsibilities of peace-keepers and peace-makers during terms of service and the difficult transition from conflict to peace under the banner of the United Nations.
The final production was highly emotive and educational. Australian Army Major Pete Green, OAM, attended the service along with members of the Australian Army and Australian Federal Police.
Saskia Ferguson from Merewether High School highlighted the multi-faceted opportunities the event provided.
“I loved the opportunity to have this completely new experience of collaborating with other school students to create this amazing performance and advance my public speaking skills. I also felt it was my duty as a young Australian to learn more about our military history both past and present, and to show my respect for and develop a better understanding of the challenges of war and peace.
“This experience has definitely made me a more confident and empathetic person, and I will forever value it,“ she said.
Fellow performer, Jessica Pelley from Saint Francis Xavier’s College, said all students should immerse themselves in our military history.
“I believe it is important for students to learn about Australia’s military history not only to develop an appreciation for it, but to also recognise the members of society who have risked their lives for the greater good of the world,” Jessica said.
Supporting the education of local students is important to Newcastle Permanent. Through supporting this event, Newcastle and Hunter students are given the opportunity to learn about our local and national history in a unique and engaging way.