By Danielle Kutchel
Students at Fountain Gate Secondary College are keeping the Anzac tradition alive.
A special service was held at the school on Friday 23 April to allow students to mark the occasion and learn more about what took place on the shores of Gallipoli more than 100 years ago.
The assembly was student-led, with students giving readings on the importance of Anzac Day and preserving the memories of those who sacrificed so much.
The event was also a recognition of those currently serving in Australia’s defence forces.
Fountain Gate Secondary College’s Anzac Day ceremony has become a tradition for the school, with more than 1200 students, parents and community guests attending annually since 2002.
As one of the largest ceremonies held each year in the City of Casey, the school’s event is supported by the Berwick RSL.
It has previously welcomed State and Federal MPs, representatives from Victoria Police, the army and Australian Naval Cadets, Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club and more.
This year’s event was more pared back than in previous years due to ongoing Covid-19 requirements, with only one year level able to attend; but the ceremony was nonetheless emotional and heartfelt.
The school band performed a number of hymns, and students stood for the Last Post, followed by a minute’s silence.
Bagpipers Ian and Alastair performed a reveille before student leaders and guests laid a wreath in the school’s Anzac remembrance garden.
