Final Address 2025: Anna Masters
Good morning all, we have been privileged to be together today, to experience a special Anzac Day Ceremony.
Thank you everyone for joining us today, 110 years after the first Anzac landings.
I would especially like to thank Lieutenant Commander Nicole Grundy. She reminded us all about the purpose of Anzac Ceremonies – we make precious time to remember, learn and think to a more peaceful future. She pointed out the unity that comes from suffering and facing challenges like the Gallipolli campaign, together.
Thank you, Nicole, for sharing your personal story – the sliding doors of a life filled with experience, love, family and an exceptional career founded upon principles of courage, resilience and sacrifice.
You reminded us that so many are impacted by battle and conflict and that our way of being is a gift that incorporates freedom of choice, equality and mateship. You drew attention to:
- The significance of women in shaping this legacy, determining the outcomes of conflicts and rebuilding our country in times of peace; the mothers, nurses, drivers, engineers, code breakers, interpreters, factory workers, pilots, farmers and peacekeepers.
- The service women currently give to our country across all the branches of the ADF, in so many and varied roles.
- The sacrifice the families of those who serve, so many of whom are members of our Merici community
Thank you for reminding us about the many arenas of conflict and peacekeeping where Australians have and continue to serve not just Australians but the world. We are very proud of you and all who work to protect and preserve our way of life.
On behalf of the Merici College students and staff, Lola and Sadie Grundy would like to present a gift of appreciation to our guest speaker today, Lieutenant Commander Grundy. Your story, wisdom and depth of experience have been a precious gift to us today.
Thank you to all staff and students for your respectful, prayerful and gracious participation in today’s Anzac Ceremony. A special thank you to all of our guests, Merici College Defence families, the Catafalque Party and our musicians for attending. As always, thank you to Ms Morris, Ms Spiller, Ms Chase, Mr Luck, Mrs Parisi, Mr Cannell and his team, the Merici Vocal Group, Mr McLeod and student AV experts and our Canteen staff for making possible this special commemorative gathering.
Anna Masters
Principal
