Hunter Students Bring Anzac Stories to Life in 70th Annual Service
Year 11 student Ivy Jones took to the stage at the Civic Theatre with a heartfelt mission: to breathe new life into Newcastle's war stories for younger generations. "These are not just stories, these are people's lives and so being able to reenact that and to educate younger generations is really meaningful to me," Ivy expressed. On Tuesday, March 31, students from public, independent, and Catholic schools across the Hunter Region came together for the 70th edition of the Newcastle and Hunter Combined Anzac Service.
Collaborative Effort Under 'Lest We Forget' Theme
Twelve Year 11 students collaborated on this significant project, dedicating their efforts to research, writing, and producing a performance centered on the theme "Lest We Forget - Carrying the Flame of Remembrance." This year's show highlighted the diverse ways Australians commemorate Anzac Day, including public cenotaphs, war memorials, and personal acts of remembrance. Ivy, who served on both the research subcommittee and the drama ensemble for Aspire—a Catholic schools music and drama program—shared insights into their preparation. "We have been meeting since November last year, and our main goal was trying to figure out how we can make it really engaging, and make sure they can take away something meaningful," she noted.
Blending Tradition with Innovation
The 70th performance marked a departure from previous years by seamlessly integrating dramatic elements with the traditional, formal Anzac service. Ivy reflected on the theme's significance, stating, "I think the theme is really special because it's relatable and it impacts all Australians because we each have our own ways of remembering." Her research uncovered poignant local stories, such as that of Private John 'Jack' Grothen, who died from a gunshot wound in World War I. His mother gave him a bible, which was later returned to his family after the war, hidden in their home's walls, and rediscovered following the 1989 Newcastle earthquake. "Being able to have my own little part in the service, in the drama and the research committee is really special," Ivy added.
Inspiring Community Engagement
Fellow committee member Elizabeth Woodcock, a student at Trinity Catholic College in Adamstown, was inspired to participate after attending last year's performance as an audience member. "I'm really passionate about history, and I find the Anzac legend fascinating and it was quite a privilege for me to use that knowledge to give back to the community," she said. Elizabeth praised the event's unique approach, remarking, "I thought it was such a unique event that was able to incorporate all of these different aspects of drama, music and research." Artistic director Shane Bransdon announced an additional tribute: students would lay red poppies at Civic Park after the ceremony. "While the students always watch wreaths being laid as part of the service... this year they will get to lay their own tributes," he explained.
Educational Impact and Legacy
This initiative not only honors Anzac traditions but also fosters a deeper understanding of history among young people. By engaging in hands-on research and creative performance, students like Ivy and Elizabeth are helping to preserve and share important narratives from Australia's past. The 70th service stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of Anzac Day and the powerful role education plays in keeping these memories alive for future generations.
