Anzac Prize nominations close soon

Time is running out for students to apply for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to Gallipoli and the Western Front with the 2014 Premier’s Anzac Prize.

Education, Training and Employment Minister John-Paul Langbroek said Year 8 to 11 students had until Friday 20 September to apply for a chance to join the inspirational study tour.

“The Anzac tradition is an incredibly important part of our national identity, and it’s something that influences our values and lives even 98 years after the original formation of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps,” Mr Langbroek said.

“We’re looking for students to create a two to five minute multimedia presentation discussing how the Anzac tradition has shaped our nation, why it’s still important, and how future generations can keep the tradition alive.

“Teachers with an interest in history and the Anzacs are also encouraged to apply as chaperones for the students.  They don’t need to be teachers of winning students to apply.”

Mr Langbroek said the Newman Government was spending $1 million between 2013 and 2015 to send 50 students on the journey to see the origins of the Anzacs in Turkey.

“We’ve already sent five students on this study tour earlier this year and the feedback we’ve received from them has been truly moving,” he said.

“It’s something they’ll remember for the rest of their lives, and I’m looking forward to meeting the next group of young Queenslanders who’ll experience this life-changing journey in 2014.

“The program will culminate in 2015 when 40 students will travel overseas to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Anzacs.”

Student winners and teacher chaperones for the 2014 prize will be announced before the end of this school year.

For more information, or to download application forms or access the student resources, please visit www.education.qld.gov.au/anzac-prize

[ENDS] 20 August 2013

Media contact: Danyelle Nolan 0408 410 930