Centenary of War Exhibition

Centenary of War

The Centenary of War display was opened in Term 3 by Dr Rosalie Triolo, Lecturer in History Education at Monash University. Dr Triolo spoke of the need to engage in our wartime history so we can learn to appreciate peace. More than 150 images were submitted by families along with a number of significant artefacts. The exhibition showed our families’ involvement in conflict over the last 100 years and was a unique opportunity for students to engage in their own history and understand that all our histories are important in telling the story of modern Australia. There were many unique and engaging stories, demonstrating the resilience of people during wartime. Many thanks to Mary Finn and the primary students for their efforts. The images will be scanned and will provide a unique resource for teaching history at De La Salle.

Principal Peter Houlihan with the war portrait of his father Francis James Houlihan, 4A Lighthorse Regiment, based in Geelong 1941.

Mr Andrew Wozencroft with Old Collegian Kevin Murray who joined the RAAF in 1969 and retired this year after 35 years of service, reaching the rank of Wing Commander. Many are familiar with the College War Memorial, just inside the Dalny St gates, on the end of the Year 6 classroom. The original version was commissioned by the Old Collegians Association, then blessed and dedicated in 1948 to commemorate past students from De La Salle who made the ultimate sacrifice in war. Plaques were added to commemorate Old Collegians who died in later conflicts. The refurbishment of the War Memorial is a fitting tribute to the 52 Old Collegians named on the original tablets and plaques and the formal blessing and dedication is another significant chapter in the history of the College.

Ben Gibson Year 7 with his Grandfather’s RAAF flying jacket and War medals. Athol Gibson flew Spitfires in Papua New Guinea and Darwin during WW2. Mr Ted Baillieu, Chair of the ANZAC committee, came to speak to the boys about getting involved in the Centenary of War project. He asked them all to consider their own histories and look for links to the early ANZACS. Chris Ovens of Year 9 presented Mr Baillieu with a gift in 9 appreciation of his visit. We were very pleased to welcome a range of special guests to participate in the ceremony. Federal Member for Higgins Kelly O’Dwyer; State Member for Malvern and Treasurer of Victoria, The Honourable Michael O’Brien; East Malvern RSL representatives Brigadier Geoff Christopherson and Mrs Leonie Christopherson; Mayor of the City of Stonnington, Counsellor Adrian Stubbs; Vice Chair of the College Board Mr Damien Nolan and Parish Priest of St Michael’s Ashburton Fr Hien Vu, who conducted the dedication.