Wynnum SHS Honours the ANZAC Spirit

On Thursday 24 April, the Wynnum State High School community gathered for our annual ANZAC Day Commemoration Ceremony—a solemn and moving tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and service of our defence personnel.

The event was opened by the Symphonic Band’s rendition of Abide With Me, setting a reflective tone. Our School Captain welcomed the official party, including guest speaker Mr Jeff Graham from the Manly-Lota RSL Sub-Branch. Mr Graham, a RAAF veteran, shared powerful insights from his 21-year career, reminding students of the personal stories behind the statistics of war.

A standout moment came from School Captain Josh, whose stirring speech invited the audience to reflect on how young people today can stay connected to the ANZAC legacy—not through shared experience, but through shared values of courage, mateship and remembrance.

The ceremony continued with The Ode, The Last Post, a minute’s silence, and the national anthems of New Zealand and Australia, performed beautifully by Kaitlin and Sophie.

The official party then proceeded to lay wreaths at the school memorial, as students Reuben and Josh performed Bottle Tree Lane.

Lest We Forget.

Wynnum SHS Shines at Community ANZAC Ceremony

On ANZAC Day, students and staff from Wynnum State High School proudly represented our school at the Manly-Lota RSL Mid-morning Service at Richard Russell Park. Despite heavy morning rain, a remarkable number of students showed their dedication by turning up in full formal uniform to march and commemorate. Fittingly, the rain cleared just in time for the ceremony—a poignant reminder of the resilience and spirit we were there to honour.

One of the highlights of the service was a heartfelt and eloquent speech delivered by School Captain Josh, who addressed a large crowd of veterans, community members, and dignitaries. His speech explored how young people today can meaningfully connect to the ANZAC legacy—not just through history, but through values like courage, mateship, and resilience. Josh reflected on the local significance of our school grounds during wartime, the living memorial of Memorial Drive, and even shared a deeply personal family story of loss and remembrance. His words were moving and well-received, drawing praise from both veterans and community members alike.

Our students’ conduct and presentation throughout the event was outstanding. From marching with pride to participating in the wreath-laying ceremony, they demonstrated the best of what it means to be part of Wynnum SHS. Staff who accompanied students commented on their respectful demeanour and strong sense of occasion.

Our school stood out among others present—not just in numbers, but in the way our students carried themselves. It was a proud day for the Wynnum SHS community, and a strong reminder that the ANZAC spirit continues to live on through the next generation.

Lest We Forget.

Wynnum SHS Student Leaders Step Up with YLead

On Tuesday 29 April, our student leadership team and aspiring Year 7 leaders took part in an exciting leadership incursion run by YLead, a national organisation known for empowering young people to become confident, capable leaders. The incursion was an energetic and inspiring day that gave our students the chance to connect, reflect, and grow their leadership potential.

Throughout the session, students engaged in hands-on activities that focused on resilience, effective communication, teamwork, and positive influence. They explored how their values shape their leadership style and learned strategies to step up and lead with purpose in challenging situations.

A highlight of the day was the project planning session, where students identified key areas they’re passionate about improving at Wynnum SHS. From student wellbeing initiatives to building stronger school spirit, their ideas were thoughtful and focused on making a real impact across our school community.

Our student leaders walked away from the day with a renewed sense of confidence, direction, and purpose. Their energy and ideas are already beginning to take shape, and we look forward to seeing their projects come to life over the coming months.

We are proud of our leaders for representing Wynnum SHS with pride and commitment.

The future is in good hands!

School Musical

Our students are busy rehearing for the musical SPAMALOT! This musical will feature a student cast, orchestra and tech crew. At the end of last term the performers and orchestra had their first full run through of Act 1. Those in attendance to watch the rehearsal were cackling in their seats! This show is extremely funny! The students are thoroughly enjoying themselves. Tickets will be going on sale later this term.

Debating

Wynnum’s two Year 8 Debating teams competed in Round 3 of the QDU Debating Competition on Thursday 1 May. Students arrived at John Paul College at 6.30pm to receive their topic and prepare for their 8pm short-prep debates. The topic assigned was “That we should abolish student leadership roles in all schools” and both teams argued the negative side, Team 1 against Carmel College and Team 2 against Canterbury College. Both teams devised great arguments and Team 2 walked away with a win. The adjudicator of Team 1’s debate advised that the debate was on a knife edge and they were only narrowly defeated. Our Year 11 coaches Oliver, Rachel, Eve and Eujin did an incredible job preparing these teams for their debates and we thank them for their dedication to coaching our Year 8 teams this year.

Congratulations to all members of both teams for not only their hard work, but for supporting each other both in meetings and on the night. A huge thanks also goes out to our many parents who come along and support our students. We wish both teams all the best in the final round of the 2025 competition.

Mrs Kennedy