The annual R.S.L. and Schools Remember Anzac Ceremony, hosted by the NSW Premier and Minister of Education and Training together with the State President of the R.S.L, was held in Hyde Park, Sydney on Monday, 9th April 2018. This year is of particular significance as it is the centenary of one of the great battles on the Western Front in France. In addition it also signifies the collapse of the central powers, the victories of the Australian Light Horse in Palestine and Syria and the Armistice in November 1918 in France. The event this year had even more significance for Mercy Catholic College, Chatswood as one of their students, Sarah Brannan was elected to be the Master of Ceremonies, both Sarah and the College were honoured to have been selected.
Sarah stated that “I was so grateful to have been given the opportunity to represent schools in NSW, and take an active role in commemorating the spirit of ANZAC. It was a particularly important moment for my family and I, as I had the honour of wearing my great Grandfather’s medals. Several of the medals, had been awarded for service carried out at the age of sixteen including one earned during the Battle of the Somme. I felt overwhelming pride at being able to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by so many, including my own family. By celebrating their courage and perseverance, we acknowledge the importance of the values they fought for, and for which they continue to fight.”