INSIDE IES
Remembering ANZAC Day within IES College
Together, we as a school reflect on the sacrifices of those who laid down their lives for our liberty.
ANZAC Day was observed by all of Australia on the 25th of April this year.
Emilia Ramirez-Melgoza in Spring Hill, Brisbane
Today marks one of the most important days recognised across our country. Today we remember, commemorate, and reconcile the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who sacrificed their lives almost 100 years ago during the First World War. Today is a day to honour the Anzacs.
On Wednesday morning April 24th, the Anzac Day commemoration assembly was held at IES College to not only remember the lives lost, but to also inform the staff and students of our country’s history. It began with the Acknowledgement of Country spoken by Rowan Scotton (Service Captain of IES) alongside Erryn Van Heerden (the IES School Captain) who welcomed all students, staff, and parents to join us in honouring the Anzac soldiers. Below, Van Heerden spoke about the importance of remembering this anniversary: “As we stand here today, let us remember the ANZACs who landed on the shores of Gallipoli on the 25th of April 1915. Let us remember their bravery, their sacrifice, and their dedication to their countries. Let us remember that the freedom we enjoy today is built upon their courage and determination.”
Continuing further through the Assembly, a focus on the origins of ANZAC day was addressed by Scotton, reminding us of why the day holds such great significance across Australia and New Zealand. After Great Britain declared war on Germany in 1914, Australia and New Zealand regarded themselves automatically also at war because of their “dominions” title. This led to the landing of Australian and New Zealand soldiers on the Gallipoli Peninsula, in Turkey, which now holds the name of “Anzac Cove.”
ANZAC Cove in Gallipoli, Turkey.
“But amidst all of that, I’ve also experienced a profound sense of pride and admiration.” As Sienna shared this heartfelt glimpse into her life, the audience felt the connection between the pair, as they are more than just two individuals missing one another, they are father and daughter.
Sienna then delved into childhood memories, encapsulating how a young child missing her father spends time with him and her family after a long period away from home. “I remember when I was young, dad had come back from his deployment in Afghanistan. After exchanging hugs and kisses, he found himself seated on the couch, while my sister and I, equipped with our beginner makeup kit for kids, transformed him with makeup and clip in hair extensions.” Sienna described this experience as a “moment of sheer joy.”
Sienna’s speech ended with an emotional thank you to her father, Major Patrick D’Arcy, and a tribute to the brave men and women who serve our country.
The D’Arcy family alongside our principal, Miss Vicki Waters.
Welcoming Sienna D’Arcy to the stage, she began by introducing the depths of what living with a father in the army (Major Patrick D’Arcy) is truly like: “Growing up with a father in the army has been both a privilege and a challenge. I’ve seen firsthand the sacrifices he makes and the long deployments.
After the heartfelt speech spoken by Sienna, her father, Major D’Arcy, was introduced to talk on his own personal experience of being a prime member of the Australian army. His inspiring words focused on why the 25th of April is such a crucial time for all Australians and New Zealanders around the world. However, he also incorporated memories of his own to give a sense of understanding on mateship, courage and sacrifice, and what it means to him.
To conclude the assembly, the ode of remembrance was recited along with a brief history on how the poem originated. This short reading was followed by the sounding of the Last Post, one-minute’s silence, the reveille and the Australian national anthem.
Overall, after spending many years away from home, returning to Australia to see how Anzac Day is commemorated within IES College has truly made an impact on my own understanding and perception of the honourable day remembered across the country. Getting the chance to hear the perspective of an Australian army member, Major D’Arcy, has made me realize how lucky we are to be able to call Australia home.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.”
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