Defence Schools Mentor
Monday Lunchtime Craft and Deployment Groups
Monday Lunchtime Craft and Deployment Groups have commenced for Term 2. Please let me know if your family has a Defence parent away (including for short courses etc) and your child would like to attend the Deployment Group.
Battle of the Coral Sea Commemoration
The weather forecast was 90 per cent chance of rain for the Battle of the Coral Sea Commemoration at the Australian-American Memorial (“the Eagle”) at Russell Offices on 10 May 2019. Sure enough, just as the ceremony commenced so did a light drizzle which soon developed into a steady moderate drenching. Several addresses were made speaking of the significance of the Battle of the Coral Sea, Australia’s close relationship with the USA and paying homage to the fallen.
Standing resolutely in the front row was veteran, Mr Derek Holyoak. He seemed unperturbed by the rain. He laid a wreath for his comrades. Sophie Neighbour, respectfully laid a posy of remembrance alongside the wreaths on behalf of the youth of Australia. Mr Derek Holyoak proudly recited the Naval Ode. There is something special about standing in solidarity, even if it is in the rain, with a veteran such as Mr Derek Holyoak to honour those who fought in war 77 years ago.
Well done to our School Captains and House Captains for being great ambassadors for our school. On occasions such as this, it seems very fitting that our Houses are named Honour, Legacy and Valour.



Defence Community Organisation (DCO) Canberra E-News April/May/June Highlights
What ADF Rugby Union Championships and Community Day
When Saturday, 18 May 2019, 9am-5pm
Where Gungahlin Enclosed Oval (entry Warwick St), GUNGAHLIN
Info Free event. Gold coin donation at gate. Many activities for the whole family throughout the day.
Defence Families of Australia
Defence Families Australia (DFA) want to hear from ADF families about the issues they are facing. In August each year, DFA meet with Defence policymakers in Canberra including CDF, Service Chiefs and the Minister for Defence Personnel and so they are now reviewing what's happening in the local Defence Communities. DFA plan to advocate for the programs that most benefit families and the issues that most affect families. Emma Steil is the Canberra Region DFA Delegate so if you have feedback, contact her via email at act.sthnsw@dfa.org.au or 0419 333 101.
Feel welcome to visit or contact me on 6249 8869 or send an email to sonja.mingay@cg.catholic.edu.au .
Sonja Mingay DSM
Work hours: Mon-Wed 9am-3pm, Thu 9-11am