Special tributes to the fallen have been delivered by Highlands students.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Representatives from Oxley and Chevalier Colleges, Bowral High School, Southern Highlands Christian School and Frensham placed flags on selected gravesites and memorial plaques in Bowral and Mittagong on April 23.
It was part of the Honour our Fallen project which aimed to identify and pay tribute to men and women who lost their lives in war time and peace keeping service.
Honour Our Fallen director Richard McCarthy said he was thrilled with how the project had gained momentum in its first year.
He said it involved 17 schools, across 40 cemeteries throughout Australia.
He said it was a great opportunity to honour those who had passed away and build an awareness in the community to thank those who continued to serve today.
“It was pleasing to see the students volunteer their time and turn up in the school holidays in their school uniforms,” Mr McCarthy said.
“It also brings awareness to those who visit the cemeteries, to see the Australian flag next to a grave and recognise that this is someone who has served their country.”
Oxley College had more than 20 students from Years 5 to 11 involved in the project.
These students have spent the last few weeks researching the fallen soldiers to be honoured. This information was shared during the flag-placing ceremony.
Oxley College deputy head pastoral Mark Case said this was an important task. “Heading out to the cemetery made it real for the students,” Mr Case said.
Oxley College student Leila O’Brien said it was important for her to recognise the service of the Anzacs. “Their service enabled us to be free and live in a country with rights,” O’Brien said. “It is important for youth to realise how much the Anzacs sacrificed.”
Oxley College community relations officer Emma Calver said she was very proud of the students. “It is great to see how they can get involved,” Ms Calver said.
“It is a visual and meaningful way to learn about history.”
Bowral Public School student Layla Cordingly also placed an Australian flag at Bradman Oval to commemorate Sir Donald Bradman.
