FROM THE DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR
Dear Defence Families,
As we wrap up another busy term, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have achieved in the Defence space. From morning teas and craft clubs to writing letters for students in Papua New Guinea, painting poppies, and preparing for our ANZAC Liturgy and March next term, our Defence students have been actively involved in meaningful activities.
DONATIONS OF BOOKS AND SPORTS EQUIPMENT TO PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Once again, our Defence students put pen to paper, creating heartfelt cards and letters for students in Papua New Guinea. Corporal Bayley Glover from the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment (Lavarack Barracks) will soon be travelling to PNG, where he will personally deliver our letters, along with donated books and sports equipment generously organised by Kate Tomerini, Head of Department – Health & Physical Education, and our Library staff, Nikea Tompkins and Ashley Webb.
Photo: DSM – Gayle Walkom, CPL Bayley Glover & Year 11 Student Krystal Kalipa
LOOKING AHEAD TO TERM 2
The start of Term 2 will be an important and busy time for our Defence students.
ANZAC LITURGY – Wednesday 23 April 2025
All Defence students are asked to arrive early and report to the Defence School Mentor in the auditorium to assist with preparations for our ANZAC Liturgy. Students have been invited to participate in various roles, which were allocated during our Defence morning teas.
Students are also welcome to bring a framed photo of a family member who has served or is currently serving. These will be carried during the Procession Hymn as part of our “Aisle of Honour,” allowing students to proudly honour their families.
WEARING OF MEDALS
Students may wear medals to the Liturgy and to Anzac Day; however, they are responsible for ensuring they are kept secure. Please note the following protocol for wearing medals:
Child of the ADF Medallion – As this award is owned by the child, it is worn on the left side.
Medals Worn by Relatives – If a child is wearing medals to honour a relative’s service, they must be worn on the right side.
These protocols have been validated by the Townsville RSL Board.
ANZAC Day – Friday 25 April 2025
This year marks a special milestone as St Patrick’s College, Townsville celebrates 120 years and has the honour of leading the school contingents in the Townsville City Service (Strand March).
Selected student representatives will be attending the Dawn Service, and all Defence students (both current and affiliated) are invited to participate in the Strand March.
Important Information:
- Parent permission is required via Parent Lounge, as this is an out-of-school activity.
- Numbers are limited to 50 students per school. If you have not received the invitation, please email gwalkom@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au.
- Students attending must be in Academic Uniform
ANZAC DAY EVENT DETAILS:
Dawn services and parades will be held at two locations: Thuringowa Cenotaph (Riverway Precinct) and Anzac Park (The Strand), where veterans, schools, community groups, and the armed forces will participate.
Townsville City Service Schedule – Friday 25 April 2025
5:20 AM – Dawn Service, Anzac Park Cenotaph
8:15 AM – Parade Form-Up (Strand Park)
9:00 AM – Parade Step-Off (Parade proceeds along The Strand to Anzac Memorial Park)
For details on services, parades, road closures, and live-streaming options, visit: What’s On Townsville.
SAVE THE DATE: Amazing Race – Friday, 16th May
Townsville ADF members, singles, couples, and families are invited to participate in this year’s (Almost) Amazing Race! Gather a team—friends, family, schoolmates—or register as an individual and Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) will place you in a team. If there is enough interest, I am keen to enter a St Patrick’s College team to represent our Defence students!
The Amazing Race will see participants navigate Norman Park (beside Jezzine Barracks), solve riddles, and complete challenges to claim victory as the 2025 champions.
Event Details:
Location: Norman Park (11-13 Isley St, North Ward)
Date: Friday 16 May 2025
Time: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Registrations: Through Eventbrite (opening next term). Keep an eye on the May DMFS eNewsletter for updates!
STAYING CONNECTED
If your family will be absent next term due to deployment or if you would like more information about the services provided, please feel free to contact Defence School Mentor, Ms Gayle Walkom via gwalkom@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au or call (07) 4753 0300.
Wishing you all a restful break, and I look forward to another great term ahead.
Gayle Walkom
DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR
