In keeping with their ANZAC traditions, the service – outside Bert Crook Memorial – opened with Uncle Brendan’s ‘Welcome to Country’ and was hosted by students from Canterbury Girls and Boys High Schools who shared their important ‘younger generation’ perspective on the day.
Ashbury Primary School Choir performed Australia’s and New Zealand’s national anthems and their band joined the choir to perform throughout the Gunfire breakfast which followed.
Canterbury Public School student Elllie Szmajda told the crowd ANZAC Day was when she thought of all the mothers.
“Mothers such as Lila Kalewis, who in 1915, waved goodbye to her four sons bound for halfway around the world,” she said.
“Her sons landed on a beach in a faraway place called Gallipoli – exactly 108 years to this very minute.
“A place Mrs Kalewis had never head of but within five months, it would take the lives of three of her sons.
“ANZAC Day is more than just remembering soldiers, it’s about honouring them, their bravery and sacrifice to ensure we enjoy our safety and freedom. We will remember them.”
