The Paradians’ Association was proud to host a lunch for veterans in the Wright Room, Ambrose Treacy Pavilion recently. The day coincided with Round 1 of the ACC 1^st XVIII Football and 1^st XI Soccer, played below the room.

Veterans form the Vietnam War, Middle East, Iraq and Afghanistan were among our guests. It was lovely to welcome a number of veteran’s wives to the lunch. President of the Victorian Branch Vietnam Veterans Association Australia, Mr Bob Elworthy AM, was a special guest. Some guests travelled long distances to attend. Phillip Bearzatto (2000) travelled down from Canberra. It was great to see David Millie (1954) and his wife Eva in attendance travelling from Queenscliff.

It was terrific to have staff member Brigit Douglas in attendance who had two tours of Afghanistan.

Parade College and the OPA have always aimed to acknowledge and pay respect to those who have served our country. Paradians have served in every major conflict Australia has fought in over the past century. World War 1 and 2, Korea, Vietnam, the Middle East, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Important symbols of Old Paradian service in the defence of our country are found at our College. Representations of sacrifice, dedication, courage and honour.

Symbols like our Honour Boards of Old Paradian service in World War 1, World War 2 and Vietnam hang with pride in our Hickey foyer. Our Foundation Square has two important symbols. A cross dedicated in remembrance of Old Paradians who have served in the armed forces in times of war. Many gave their lives in the quest for peace. Another symbol, our Lone Pine propagated from the seed collected from the Lone Pine in Canberra. Grown from seed sent home from Gallipoli after the Battle of Lone Pine planted in 2018 on the anniversary of the armistice.

College Vice Principal Mary Dourios welcomed guests to the College. Former staff member, Honorary Old Paradian and Vietnam Veteran John Joss read the Ode of Remembrance. Anthony Lamers (1998) delivered a passionate speech speaking of the values instilled in him from his time at the College and how those values served him in his military career. Assistant Principal Maurice Petrocelli and Prefect Luka Miklic led guests in prayer before a lunch catered by Spitting Image. Special thanks to Alumni Relations Assistant Hayley Workman for her great work in organising the day.