Students at Australian Christian College Darling Downs gathered for a solemn Anzac Day assembly focused on remembrance and gratitude.
The service included a Bible reading from Psalm 23, poem readings of In Flanders Fields by John McCrae and The Unknown Soldier, as well as moments of silence that set a respectful tone across the school community.
As part of the assembly, students wrote messages of gratitude and reflection on red paper flowers, which were placed together on a wall display as a collective tribute to those who served.
The sound of the Last Post added to the emotional impact, prompting reflection on sacrifice, courage and the cost of war.
Students were encouraged to reflect on the meaning of Anzac Day and its significance in our culture, with a couple of students producing standout responses.
“My school’s ANZAC assembly was a meaningful and respectful experience that helped me better understand the importance of remembering those who served, and died, in the war,” said one Year 8 student.
“The atmosphere in the chapel was very quiet and serious, which showed respect to the soldiers who died and their great sacrifices. I especially liked when we did the minute of silence, because the chapel was very quiet, even when everyone was reading my favourite poem, The Unknown Soldier. The stories and poems that were shared in the assembly helped me realise how much courage and resilience the ANZAC soldiers showed during the hardest times.
“It also made me think about the importance of peace and how lucky we are today because of their sacrifices. The music, such as The Last Post, made the experience even more emotional and reflective. Overall, the assembly was a powerful reminder of the value of remembrance, respect, and gratitude. It helped me feel more connected to history and understand why ANZAC Day is such an important part of Australian identity,” she said.
Another student, also from Year 8, commented that: “The ANZAC assembly left me feeling proud of what Australia has become. It also made me feel reflective, and more connected to the deep history of Australia and New Zealand.
“Listening to the stories about the soldiers and learning about their courage and sacrifice made me realise how much of their future those young people gave up for the hope of Australia’s future. During The Last Post, I felt a deep sense of respect. It gave me time to think about the people who served and how their actions still impact our lives today. The assembly made it feel real and meaningful, not just something I would find out of a textbook in class.
“Seeing the whole school come together, standing quietly and showing respect, reminded me that Anzac Day is not just about remembering the past, but also about appreciating the values of bravery, mateship, and resilience. Overall, the Anzac assembly made me feel more grateful for my life today and Australia as a whole,” she said.
