SA Premier's Anzac Spirit School Prize

  I felt so simple and small, in contrast to the great structures that surrounded me by Vinka Lakic History is the product of one man’s determination to defy the economic and political pressures that consume the world around him; and the greatness to inspire millions after him. If I were asked to articulate the lesson I have learnt from this entire trip, I would reply: neither celebrated nor seldom heeded historical events should deter us from acknowledging the significance of every historical event. Reflecting on the trip, a highlight of mine certainly lies in the Nit Nit Dreaming Cruise in Nitmilik (Katherine) Gorge; this experience was beautiful and scenic, capturing the authentic beauty of the environment and the fauna and flora that inhibits it. As I absorbed the picturesque views, I felt as if I had been transported to another realm, believing that I would never have felt so in awe of nature; and ironically, amid my thoughts, I felt so simple and small, in contrast to th...

  I became aware of how history surrounds us by Sahib Kaur One of my favourite parts of the trip was when we visited Parliament House. This wasn’t originally part of the plan for the trip but I am glad we visited it. I am someone who is intrigued and interested in the overlap between politics and history, so this was such an memorable experience. When we saw the original post office wall and the plaque, I had a moment where I became aware of how history surrounds us. It all became incredibly real in my head during this moment and I connected the stories of the post office workers that we previously shared, to the wall. I had a few moments of awareness during the trip where I realised it was a real historical event and not just something we read about, but this was by far the most intense. Other than the rich history we were exposed to in the Northern Territory, I made new friends and had so many enjoyable moments. I loved the little moments like when I plaited Ella’s...

Connection by William Sims I chose to write about this photo as I felt a great connection to it. This photo shows a plaque commemorating Merchant Navy service people and the sacrifice they made. This photo is really special to me as the person I researched after being awarded the prize, Master William Michie, is listed on this plaque. At first when we were told we needed to research a person that lost their life during the Bombing of Darwin, I had no idea who I was going to write about. I ended up choosing a William as it was only fitting, as I am a William and the original entry, I wrote was on William Charles Kenwrick, my great-grandfather. I soon became really connected to William Michie and his story and felt a part of his story. Seeing his name at the Adelaide River War Cemetery was surreal. I stood at this plaque and read the story I had written on William Michie aloud, multiple times feeling like I had not quite read it right. I then placed a poppy on the headstone and thought a...