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Oakleigh Grammar students and staff gathered at Saints Anargiri Church on Wednesday 11 November for the school’s annual Remembrance Day Service, honouring all who have served and sacrificed for peace and freedom. The commemoration provided an opportunity for the school community to reflect on the significance of the day and pay tribute to those who gave their lives in service.
The service began with the ceremonial entrance of a wreath, carried by Aishwarya (Year 6) and Luca (Year 5), followed by an Opening Prayer and Doxology led by School Chaplain and Parish Priest, Father Stavros Kakavas. Gia (Year 10) welcomed the community, highlighting the significance of Saints Anargiri Church, one of Australia's few War Memorial Churches, dedicated in 1973 in memory of Australians and Greeks who gave their lives for freedom during World War II.
Students shared reflections throughout the service, offering insight into the history and symbolism of Remembrance Day. Kolthida and Nathaniel (Year 9) spoke about the origins of the day and the Armistice of 11 November 1918, while Mary (Year 11) and Shirom (Year 7) explained the symbolism of the red poppy. Ellery and Zidaan (Year 4) read The Inquisitive Mind of a Child, and a Year 3 student delivered the Ode of Remembrance. Mr Adam Alfawwal explained the significance of the Ode, the Last Post, the minute of silence and the Rouse, before the school community joined in the response, "We will remember them".
Principal Mark Robertson addressed the school community, reflecting on the importance of remembering those who served and sacrificed, and ensuring their stories and contributions are recognised by future generations. Another special part of the service was the reading of Remember Them, a poem written specifically for the 2026 commemoration by Oakleigh Grammar's School Crossing Supervisor, John Atkin. Presented by First Aid Officer Mrs Vicki Keith, the poem reflected on the lasting impact of war on families and the children who grew up without fathers lost during the years of 1939 to 1944.
The ceremony concluded with the Australian National Anthem, before the wreath was carried to the School's ANZAC Memorial by student representatives, Father Stavros and the Official Party.
Oakleigh Grammar was also represented on Sunday 8 November at the Oakleigh and District War Memorial Service, with the School's 2027 Student Leaders standing alongside fellow schools and members of the community to pay their respects.
Through both services, students and staff honoured the courage, sacrifice and service of those who contributed to peace and freedom, ensuring their memory lives on through future generations.
