Cobar High School students and teachers were invited to perform at the St Marys RSL Sub Branch Remembrance Day service in Sydney on Friday.
The invitation came after the Cobar group’s live recording of their performance on Anzac Day this year of a very moving ‘Hallelujah Veterans Version’, went viral.
The performance (with words by Sailor Jerri and music by Leonard Cohen) caught the attention of many with the video shared on social media where it received over 150,000 views. Among those to view it were St Marys Sub-Branch members and veterans, with Steve Tolsher and Tony Fryer reaching out to the school inviting them to perform at their Remembrance Day service this year.
Cobar High School students Ebony Aumua, Macee Brown and Bridie Bruce and their teachers Cassandra Best and Laura Andrew, travelled to Sydney last week for the performance.
“The service was attended by a number of dignitaries, local schools, where Cobar High School was the special guest,” music teacher Laura Andrew said.
“Students’ emotive performance played an important part in the service, the music and lyrics evoking reflection for those who have served.
“The St Marys Sub-Branch members showed incredible hospitality, sharing their knowledge and showing an interest in students’ own experiences, education and family.”
Ms Andrew said meeting the St Marys Sub-Branch members, gave students the opportunity to appreciate the human sacrifice of war and to remember those who we have lost.
“For some, the trip also sparked a new understanding and appreciation for their own family members who have been involved in war,” Ms Andrew said.
