ST PATRICK’S College honoured the spirit of ANZAC through a moving commemorative assembly and strong representation at ANZAC Day services across Ballarat.
Held before students, staff and invited guests on Thursday, 23 April, the 2026 ANZAC Assembly provided an opportunity for the College community to reflect on the sacrifice and service of Australians who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. The ceremony was led by student leaders George Charles, Taj Bobrowski, Cameron Belleville and Daniel Rivas, alongside Acting Principal Dr Michael Carroll and Deputy Principal – Community, Mr John Richards.
The assembly opened with an Acknowledgement of Country before College Captain George Charles reflected on the significance of ANZAC Day and the courage of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps at Gallipoli during the First World War. A procession by cadets and the St Patrick’s College Drum Corps accompanied footage of fallen soldiers, creating a solemn and
reflective atmosphere.
A central focus of the service was the story of Old Collegian Roy Alexander Fregon (SPC 1909-1911), presented by Mr Richards as part of the College’s annual ANZAC tradition of sharing the
wartime story of a former student. Roy, a boarder from Bruthen in East Gippsland, enlisted in 1916 and served with the 57th Battalion in France and Belgium before
being killed in action at Passchendaele in September 1917 at just 22 years of age.
Through letters written home to his family, students gained a powerful insight into the realities of war and the personal sacrifice made by so many young Australians. The College was privileged to welcome Roy’s great-niece, Joanne Fregon, to the assembly, alongside representatives from Ballarat Legacy, Major Brian Broadribb and Mr Allan McKinnon, who presented Dr Carroll with a book marking 100 years of Legacy.
Read more about Roy Fregon here
The service also featured a stirring performance of Abide With Me by the St Patrick’s College Symphonic Wind Ensemble, prayers of remembrance, a reading of For The Fallen by College
Vice Captain Cameron Belleville, and the laying of a wreath by Dr Carroll and Taj Bobrowski. Trumpeter Noah Vallance sounded The Last Post and The Rouse as the College observed a minute’s
silence.
Beyond the College gates, St Patrick’s students also represented the school with distinction at ANZAC Day commemorations across Ballarat. Student leaders attended community services
throughout the city, while the St Patrick’s College Marching Band proudly led the Ballarat ANZAC Day March, continuing a proud tradition of service, leadership and community connection.
