Joe Francis talks at the Anzac Day service.        d451458
Camera IconJoe Francis talks at the Anzac Day service.        d451458 Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Ellenbrook students mark Anzac Day

Montana ArdonThe Advocate

State Minister for Veterans Joe Francis delivered a speech to the students at Woodlake Amphitheatre, the former home of Ellenbrook RSL’s Anzac Day service.

“This is a special part of the country,” he said.

“It’s just something else.

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“But don’t tell the people in my electorate that.”

Mr Francis, the fifth generation in his family to serve in the Defence Force, started his speech by asking how many students in the crowd were 14.

“You’re the same age as the youngest man, or child, to die at Gallipoli. Many young people lied about their age to take part in what they thought would be a great adventure,” he said.

“You look back and realise the impact and massive loss it had on many families across the country, so it’s important to recognise and remember that.”

Mr Francis also said it was important that students had the opportunity to commemorate and learn about Australian history.

Other guests included members from the Ellenbrook RSL and local MP Frank Alban, as well as Ellenbrook Independent Primary School principal Neil MacNeill.

“Dr MacNeill is a war veteran himself,” Mr Francis said.