Students to remember the Anzacs on the Western Front

A group of Year 10 and 11 students will travel to the battlefields and memorial sites of the Western Front in July after being awarded the 2016 Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship.

NSW Premier Mike Baird today announced the names of the students who will visit the official commemorations of the Battle of Pozières and the Battle of Fromelles, which were the setting for displays of great sacrifice by the Anzacs.

“Today marks the Centenary of the first landing of Australian troops in France as they made the journey to the Western Front,” Mr Baird said.

“These soldiers had completed training in Egypt and many had fought bravely in Gallipoli before heading to the Western Front.

“Like the young men who landed on the shores of France one hundred years ago, today also marks the start of the journey for these 24 students as they learn more about the sacrifices and heroism of the Anzacs.”

Veterans’ Affairs received applications of a very high standard from 89 schools across NSW.

The 24 successful scholars exhibited an outstanding interest in Australian history, deep involvement in commemoration of the Anzacs, and made excellent contributions to their school and local communities.

Applications were assessed by a committee including Veterans’ Affairs, Department of Education and NSW RSL representatives.

The students will be joined by three supervising teachers, a tour historian, and NSW RSL representatives.

For more information about the scholarship please visit veterans.nsw.gov.au/education/premiers-anzac-memorial-scholarship or contact Veterans’ Affairs on 9228 4710.