St Andrew’s College Anzac Service
On Monday evening, St Andrew’s College staff and students gathered in the Kinross-Mackie Chapel to celebrate Anzac Day. The service explored the immeasurable value of peace, and the enduring need to recognise the sacrifices and achievements of women and men – including Androvians – affected by war.
Chaplain Reverend Gareth Clayton opened his sermon by pointing out the distinction between life lost and life given. “Those who fought did not lose their lives,” the Reverend said, “they surrendered them of their own free well”. He also encouraged students in attendance not to lose sight of the value of peace. “We must never stop striving to live without war; and to achieve this, we will remember them.”
Principal Wayne Erickson used the majority of his address to celebrate the lives of William and Hugh Kirkland, who entered St Andrew’s College in 1908 and 1911 respectively. The Kirkland brothers, who were both gifted medical graduates of the University of Sydney, died in the Great War serving as Medical Officers with the 2nd Field Artillery Brigade. The gifted doctors were valued members of both St Andrew’s College and their hometown of Lithgow, where they practiced medicine and played music. “We mourn the tragedy of life lost, yet commemorate the contribution in war of brave men like Will and Hugh Kirkland,” said the Principal. “This is a difficult balance, and is the reason why ANZAC Day is kept as a solemn memorial and not as a source for jubilation.”
The musical contributions of the St Andrew’s College Choir, Titus Grenyer (organ), Sam Vail (trumpet) and Max Eastwood (bagpipes) befitted the occasion. Their solemn, reflective performances coloured the words of all speakers, and set an appropriately solemn tone.
The service concluded with the College community casting sprigs of rosemary before the wreath, which was placed next to honour boards in the vestibule.
Lest we forget.
Pictured above: Rev Dr Gareth Clayton OAM