Term two is now in full swing. The weather is definitely beginning to cool down as we approach the Winter months. A welcome relief from the Summer heat.

The end on last term saw a beautiful ANZAC Service commemorated by the RVSSC Community. It was heartwarming to have so many students, both ADF and non-ADF willing to participate in the service. The respect and pride was very evident in their manner.  A big Thank you to Flt Lt Luke Moran from 33 Sqn RAAF Base Amberley and Pastor Stephen Thomas who joined us for the commemoration.

There has been no shortage of attendance by Defence students and their guests on Wednesdays at first break. New friendships are forming and old ones are being strengthened. This is terrific in developing social and emotional skills that inevitably extends out into the wider school and community. 

Some students are currently experiencing the challenges that come with long deployments. I have made myself available for an informal gathering up in the canteen area at second break on Wednesdays, to give students an opportunity to gather and chat about their experiences, share how they are coping, and also for them to offer advice to others who may not be dealing with the absences as well as they could be.

I also have a questionnaire that students can voluntarily fill out that allows them to write down what their experience of being an ADF kid is like. I have begun to hand these out. Over time, I am hoping to create a book that future students can read, fill of their thoughts, ideas and strategies for coping with a loved one's absence while dealing with the day to day dramas of being a teenager. 

On Thursday 1 July this year, the Defence Community Organisation (DCO) will change their name to Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS)

The new name will reflect the organisation's vision, with the aim of strengthening their position in the community as a Defence-led service. The name is all that changes. All services, support and area offices remain the same. 

You will soon notice the name changes on fact sheets and social media channels as the name change rolls out. The Defence Family Hotline can be accessed 24/7 on 1800 624 608.

We have just celebrated Mother's Day, and some lucky Mum's were treated to crafty cards made by their children at Defence Club. However you spent the day, I hope you were able to relax and enjoy the day in a way you deserved.