Don Drysdale has been serenading the Sunshine Beach State School community with his haunting bagpipe melodies for 15 consecutive years at the school’s ANZAC Day ceremony, a tradition deeply cherished and honoured by all.
The school’s ANZAC Day commemoration pays tribute to the courage and sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand soldiers and veterans, with Mr Drysdale’s stirring performance marking the beginning of the solemn ceremony.
Reflecting on his longstanding connection with the school and the significance of ANZAC Day, Mr Drysdale expressed his delight in being part of Sunshine Beach State School’s annual event.
With a family history deeply intertwined with military service, including both his father and grandfather being returned servicemen, ANZAC Day holds profound personal meaning for him.
Recalling his journey with the bagpipes, Mr Drysdale said, ‘I learnt the pipes at 11 years of age and marched in parades in Terang, Victoria, from 12 years of age and then Tewantin since 1982 and also Cooroy and Eumundi for most of those years.”
“One year I went to Gallipoli for Anzac Day where my grandfather and his brother fought.
“My Dad played the pipes however it was a man called Jimmy Blair who used to mesmerize me and when I was young, I said I wanted to play just like him.
“I still play the two tunes I loved hearing him play. I have met people all over the world from piping and get a lot of joy from it.”
His passion for piping and dedication to honouring the ANZAC legacy shine through his heartfelt performances.
The ANZAC Day ceremony, was a moving tribute to the fallen.
Student leaders eloquently recounted the history of ANZAC Day, paying homage to heroes like Private Jack Simpson Kirkpatrick and his faithful donkey Duffy.
As the school choir sang In Flanders Fields, a solemn atmosphere enveloped the gathering, intensified by the laying of wreaths by the staff, official guests, and students.
The recitation of The Ode from For the Fallen and the haunting strains of the Last Post evoked deep emotions, culminating in a moment of silence for reflection and remembrance.
The ceremony was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served, and the participation of Mr Drysdale, alongside official guests and students, underscored the community’s unity in honouring their memory.
Sunshine Beach State School extends its gratitude to all who joined in this meaningful tribute, particularly acknowledging the school student leaders for their exemplary organisation and leadership.
