This year's Gallipoli Anzac Day dawn service, the largest commemoration outside of Australia, would be attended by Emma Hampson, 16, Laura Essex, 16, Abbey McDonald, 15, Lara Hoskins, 17, and teacher Kylee Beasley from Hunter River High plus Chloe Rebellato, 16, Brandon Smith, 17, Jessica Miller, 16, Joshua Kruik, 18, and St Philip's Christian College principal Timothy Petterson.

In December 2014, Hunter River High School and St Philip's Christian College were drawn out in the state-wide Gallipoli 2015 School Tour ballot.

By being drawn, the schools were able to each send four students and one teacher on a seven-day tour to Gallipoli paid for by the federal government.

At the time, former Port Stephens MP Craig Baumann, who had prompted the schools to put their names into the ballot, said it was extraordinary that two both had been picked.

"I am thrilled that students from Hunter River High at Raymond Terrace and St Philip's College at Salamander Bay will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of the commemorative ceremonies to mark the 100th anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli," Mr Baumann said in December.

Students from the schools who met the criteria to go on the tour were asked to submit a piece of artwork, music, essay or written piece focusing on the spirit of Anzac.

Upon returning to Australia from their trip, the students hoped to share their experiences with the community.