Yesterday a special ceremony was held at the College to plant a Lone Pine seedling that has been donated by Glen Keedle from All Round Tree & Garden Care – Blackbutt. Along with donating the Lone Pine a sandstone Memorial Plaque detailing the significance of the Lone Pine, was gifted to the College and carefully placed in front of the Edmund Rice Chapel, the most important building to the College Community, as a living memorial to all those who serve and remember those who have fallen.
Mr Keedle stated, “For me, it is important that the College has a special place to commemorate all those that have served. Many Australians have their own personal connections with past military campaigns and for me the Battle of Lone Pine holds special significance as my Great Grandfather, William Fredrick, served in the Seventh Battalion Regiment at Lone Pine under Pompei Elliot. Furthermore, my own father, who is present for the ceremony today with a picture of his Father, is a returned serviceman with the RAAF having served in Korea and Malaysia. Being able to hear their stories and remember the great sacrifice so many Australians made for our country is important”. Glen further detailed his intentions to donate more trees for schools and community groups across the Illawarra, in commemoration of Lone Pine and all those that have served for their Country.
Ultimately, the College is very fortunate to receive the donation from Mr Keedle which will allow the school community to continue the tradition of honouring our ex-students who have served Australia. Being able to recognise their contributions to our Country and have a significant place of reflection is important for all our staff and students in showing our respect as well as remembering their courage and dedication of service to our country.
