KIDS PARADE WITH PRIDE

TOWNSVILLE students paused yesterday to remember the sacrifices Anzac soldiers made for Australians 100 years ago.

Currajong State School’s ceremony included an address from Warrant Officer Andrew White, a moving speech from principal Anthony Ryan and a reading of The Ode by Cr Maurie Soars.

School captain Jayden Ruli, 11, said it was important to be grateful for the sacrifice of the Anzacs.

“Without their sacrifice I don’t think we would have the opportunity to live life,” he said. “We all want Anzac Day to carry on throughout Australia so it’s important that we can set an example.”

Principal Anthony Ryan said Currajong students would march proudly at the official parade today at The Strand, and a big turnout was expected.

“It’s about the students remembering and understanding where we’ve come from,” Mr Ryan said.

“We’re conscious of not calling it a celebration, it’s about remembrance and what we can learn from that with the way we interact in our day to day lives.”

Each class created a handmade wreath which were laid at the ceremony and the parade was Auslan- interpreted.

Warrant Officer White said connections between the Defence Force and schoolchildren would help carry through the Anzac spirit.