Melbourne school hosts 12th annual Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony on historic VE Day anniversary
Courage to Care Victoria was again honoured to support Alkira Secondary College’s annual Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony.
It was held this year on May 8th, a significant date marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, the end of World War II in Europe.
Located in Cranbourne, Alkira Secondary College is a diverse and inclusive school community with over 2,000 students from more than 50 cultural backgrounds. The solemn ceremony, now in its 12th year, was led by the school’s Year 9 to Year 12 student leaders, with the audience comprising Year 9 and 10 students. The event continues to grow in prominence, serving as a powerful educational opportunity and reminder of the importance of remembering the atrocities of the Holocaust.
Les Kausman
This year’s ceremony also welcomed guests from McKinnon Secondary College, Mount Scopus Memorial College, and Heritage College. The latter is set to hold its own Holocaust Remembrance event inspired by Alkira’s longstanding tradition.
The initiative began over a decade ago thanks to the dedication of two teachers, Kristine Wolfe and Nicole Scott, who were inspired to start the ceremony after participating in the Gandel Holocaust Studies Program for Australian Educators at Yad Vashem in Israel. Their vision has evolved into a respected and moving annual event.
Peter Gaspar
A highlight of this year’s ceremony was a heartfelt speech delivered by former Courage to Care Vice Chair, Les Kausman, who reflected on the enduring legacy of Holocaust education and the profound effect it has had on students over the years.
Students were deeply moved by a personal testimony from Holocaust survivor Peter Gaspar offering a firsthand account of the horrors of the Holocaust and the strength of the human spirit. Peter’s presence provided a rare and powerful connection to history that many students will remember for a lifetime.
Courage to Care commended Alkira Secondary College for its commitment to Holocaust education and the preservation of memory through student engagement, reflection, and leadership. As antisemitism and racism continue to pose global challenges, initiatives like these serve as a vital reminder of the lessons of history and the courage it takes to care.
