Walkerston State School students recently paid tribute to Australia’s heroes with a vivid chalk art display in honour of Remembrance Day on Monday, November 11.
Covering a wall with colourful illustrations, they created intricate drawings of poppies - both red and purple - symbolising soldiers and the animals that served alongside them. Crosses, flags, and wreaths also added a meaningful touch to the artwork, reflecting a deeper understanding that radiated through their creative expressions.
Among the artists were Year 6 students Matilda Brand, Chloe Schatkowski, Heath Rogers, and Iyla Hill, each contributing their perspective to the artwork and explaining what the day meant to them.
Chloe shared, “It represents the soldiers who gave their lives as the ultimate sacrifice during all the conflicts that they served in trying to protect our country.”
Matilda reflected on the respect embodied by the tribute, saying, “It shows respect and that we are thankful that they served for our country for us.”
Heath emphasised the importance of freedom, remarking, “It’s to remember the people who died for our freedom.”
Iyla acknowledged not only the soldiers but also the animals that served, adding, “It’s to remember all the soldiers that have passed in the war and the animals that died during each and every war.”
The children’s tribute didn’t go unnoticed, as Walkerston RSL Sub Branch member and veteran Rod Francisco attended the event to engage with the students about the significance of Remembrance Day.
Francisco, a veteran with multiple medals for his service in Iraq, East Timor and the Middle East, shared his thoughts on the day.
"For a lot of veterans, the most important thing for us is our connection to community," he explained.
"It’s really important that we maintain that connection, and by doing that here with the school… it really is important for us that they connect back to the service and recognise the sacrifice that some people have made."
Francisco explained the significance of wearing medals over the heart in a tradition that honours the lives lost during service.
“On days like today, a lot of people put their hands over their medals… One of the medals are over your heart to symbolise that importance.
“Another tradition is to just shield your medals for those that made the ultimate sacrifice and didn't return.”
For Francisco and his fellow veterans, the students’ curiosity and respect are always touching.
“There’s a real strong and genuine interest in it… and it’s aways great to see.”
Walkerston State School hopes to make next year’s Remembrance Day an even bigger one, with a focus on bridging generations and preserving the memory of service and sacrifice.
By teaching the next generation through creativity and respect, the legacy of those who served will be remembered for decades to come.
Lest We Forget
Year 6 students from Walkerston State School: Matilda Brand, Chloe Schatkowski, Heath Rogers, and Iyla Hill with Walkerston RSL Sub Branch member and veteran Rod Francisco. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
