The Member for Yuroke, Ms Liz Beattie MP today urged Year 9 and Year 10 students from Yuroke to submit entries for the 2009-2010 Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize. 

The annual prize gives 10 students from across Victoria the chance to visit significant battlefield sites and war cemeteries in Europe, Gallipoli and other countries where Australians have served.

Now in its sixth year, the competition is a way for secondary students to learn more about the history and legacy of Victoria’s veterans.

The planned 2010 study tour will visit the Thai-Burma Railway, including Hellfire Pass, and the Western Front in France and Belgium.

“This important initiative has captured the imagination of students across Victoria eager to learn more about Australia’s service history”, Ms Beattie said.

“Having led the delegation in 2009, I have experienced first hand the wonderful knowledge student’s gain from participating in Spirit of Anzac Prize.”

“It gives students the opportunity to see those places where Australian men and women gave their all for future generations.” 

“This prize aims to inspire young Victorians to explore the ethos of the ANZACs at Gallipoli and on the Western Front and how values such as courage, initiative, mateship and endurance help unite and strengthen Victorian communities today,” Ms Beattie said. 

Final entries for this year’s competition must be submitted by Friday, 9 October, 2009 and can take the form of a research essay, a visual artwork or an audio, web-based or video presentation.