On Wednesday, April 24, the St Joseph’s College community gathered at the college’s Anzac memorial at Brigidine Campus to remember and honour the Anzacs, all who served and continue serving their country.
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The college community remembered those who were injured and impacted by war, as well as families and communities whose loved ones never returned.
They were honoured by representatives from the Echuca RSL and Moama RSL sub-branches in attendance.
Vietnam veteran Mr Drew Clyne, an operator keyboard and radio, OKR, from the 110 Signal Squadron, was the guest speaker.
He shared his recollections of three generations of the local Clyne family’s involvement in international conflicts, World War I, World War II and Vietnam, with the college.
The college also thank Mr Clyne’s son, Brock Clyne, for his attendance.
As a collective prayer for peace, to symbolise the college’s deepest gratitude for and remembrance of the sacrifices made, as well as in the spirit of the 2024 college theme ‘Hope’, all learning mentor groups from both campuses, staff and members of the extended college community created sixty ‘Living Wreaths’ made from succulents and rosemary, symbolising hope in many different ways.
Led by St Joseph’s Echuca principal Anne Marie Cairns and executive assistant to the principal Maree McNamara, the wreaths were brought forward to the college memorial as the names of the 13 servicemen and women from the school community who did not return home were read out.
A number of these wreaths were then gifted to local organisations and businesses.
The college liturgy and service was followed by students, staff and families, joining with Moama, Deniliquin and Echuca communities on Anzac Day in solemn remembrance and to honour the service and sacrifices of the Anzacs and all who served and continue to serve for our country.
St. Joseph’s was honoured and grateful to be involved in laying wreaths, singing, raising flags and reading the Requiem.
The school also acknowledged the many students and staff representing other community-serving organisations such as SES, Girl Guides, and Cadets.