Anzac 2002
Project Launch - 21 May 2001
by
Lt General Peter Cosgrove
The real highlight of the group's preparation has been the visit by Army Chief and current Australian of the Year, Lt General Peter Cosgrove, who came to Mackay to meet the students and to officially launch the project.
Lt General Cosgrove met with the students in the school library for 1/2 hour and shared some great stories with them. He answered questions, posed for photos and signed autographs. The students were amazed that such a high profile man could be so friendly and down to earth - he certainly made them all feel very special.
Lt General Cosgrove then launched the project at an official function in the school hall, which was attended by many special guests, including Mackay's own war hero, Keith Payne VC.
The students remember Lt General Cosgrove's visit with great fondness and they are looking forward to meeting him again at the Anzac Day ceremonies at Gallipoli next year.
Lt General Cosgrove sharing some thoughts with students With the Anzac 2002 group
Receiving a gift from the launch MCs, Todd & Elise
With Keith Payne VC, teacher Mike Goodwin and 2 of the project students, Tracey & Tara