Oakleigh Grammar students and staff gathered on Tuesday morning at Saints Anargiri Church for a moving Remembrance Day Service, honouring all who have served and sacrificed for peace and freedom.
The assembly offered the school community a moment to reflect, remember, and pay tribute to those who gave their lives in service.
The service began with the ceremonial entrance of a wreath, carried by Larissa (Year 6) and Chris (Year 5), followed by an Opening Prayer and Doxology led by School Chaplain and Parish Priest Father Stavros Kakavas.
Raksa (Year 10) welcomed the community, highlighting the significance of Saints Anargiri Church, one of Australia’s few War Memorial Churches, dedicated in 1973 to honour Australians and Greeks who fought and died for freedom.
Students shared reflections throughout the service, offering insight into the history and symbolism of Remembrance Day. Jack and Gia (Year 9) spoke about the origins of the day, while Sienna (Year 11) and Filip (Year 7) explained the meaning of the red poppy.
Sebastian and Adriana (Year 4) read “The Inquisitive Mind of a Child”, and Jasmine (Year 3) delivered the Ode of Remembrance.
The ceremony concluded with the Last Post, a minute of silence, the Rouse, and the singing of the Australian National Anthem, before the wreath was carried to the School’s ANZAC Memorial by student representatives, Executive Team and Father Stavros.
Reflecting on the service, Principal Mark Robertson emphasised the importance of pausing to remember and honour the sacrifices of those who served.
Oakleigh Grammar was also represented on Sunday, November 9 at the Oakleigh and District War Memorial Remembrance Service, with SRC Coordinator and Hellenic Culture Coordinator Natasha Spanos attending on behalf of the Battle of Crete Committee. The school’s participation demonstrates its ongoing connection to the local community and commitment to preserving the memory of those who served.
Through both services, students and staff paid tribute with respect and gratitude, commemorating the courage, resilience, and dedication of all who contributed to peace and freedom.
