{"id":6736,"date":"2026-05-08T15:15:35","date_gmt":"2026-05-08T05:15:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thebuzz.net.au\/spc-townsville\/?post_type=article&p=6736"},"modified":"2026-05-08T15:43:49","modified_gmt":"2026-05-08T05:43:49","slug":"from-the-defence-school-mentor-14","status":"publish","type":"article","link":"https:\/\/www.thebuzz.net.au\/spc-townsville\/article\/from-the-defence-school-mentor-14\/","title":{"rendered":"FROM THE DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR"},"content":{"rendered":"

ANZAC DAY 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n

Anzac Day, 25 April, is observed nationally as a solemn day of remembrance, held on the anniversary of the landing of the First Australian Imperial Force and New Zealand Army troops at Gallipoli in 1915. This year, our Anzac Liturgy was held in Week 1 of Term 2 and was respectfully hosted by Krystal Kalipa and Isobelle Gilbride.<\/p>\n

The College was honoured to welcome guest speaker, Trooper Tayla-Rose Donovan (Australian Army and St Patrick\u2019s College Townsville alumna), along with Veteran Kate Annetts and her daughter, Trooper Summer Donnelly.<\/p>\n

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Following the Liturgy, students supported the fundraiser for Homeless Diggas by selling Hero Tags. Hero Tags are $3.00 each or 4 for $10.00, with all proceeds supporting the local charity Homeless Diggas. A limited number are still available – please see Ms Walkom in the Library if you would like to purchase.<\/p>\n

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Hero Tags: https:\/\/militaryshop.com.au\/herotags\/<\/a><\/p>\n

Our students also attended the Dawn Service and proudly represented the College at the Townsville Strand March, marching behind the College Banner. At the Dawn Service, College Captains Bridget Baxter and Mary Lansley, along with senior student Isobelle Gilbride, laid a wreath on behalf of the College community. Marching alongside current and former service personnel, students helped commemorate 111 years since the Gallipoli landing in 1915 and honoured the service and sacrifice of all Australians and New Zealanders who have served. As the march passed the College, boarding students stood in respectful support and acknowledged our students with applause. As a community, we remain grateful for the service of all who have served, and we will continue to remember them.<\/p>\n

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The College also congratulates the 2026 Defence Student Leader, Isobelle Gilbride. Isobelle has demonstrated strong commitment to her ties to the Defence Force, a genuine community spirit, and a willingness to serve and support others across the College community. In this role, she will:<\/p>\n