2021 PREMIER'S ANZAC STUDENT TOUR JOURNAL TABLE OF CONTENTS 5 Departure and arrival 6 A trek through time 7 Events of WWII 9 Social and cultural experience 11 War and peace 13 One nation, many stories 16 Perspective 18 Witness of history 19 Strategy and survival 20 Commemorating Anzac Day 21 Returning home and reflections
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BALANCING ACT ON THE HAI VAN PASS
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KHAI DINH TEMPLE TOUR
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ONE PILLAR PAGODA MEDITATION
AALIYAH EBRAHIM Year 12 Australian Islamic College, formerly of Melville Senior High School
ALEESYA AMIRIZAL Year 11 Champion Bay Senior High School
ALANA GREGORY Year 10 St Mary's Anglican Girls' School
DARCY REID Year 11 Bunbury Senior High School
GRACE HAILES Year 11 St Mary's Anglican Girls' School
ISABELLA HULM Year 10 St Norbert College
JACK WATTERS Year 11 Applecross Senior High School
LUCY LONNQVIST Year 12 St Mary's Anglican Girls' School
MAYA GIBSON Year 11 Denmark Senior High School
MAX SIMMONS Year 12 Dalyellup College
SACHA BELL Year 11 Mount Lawley Senior High School
SAMUEL CARTER Year 11 Karratha Senior High School
SAMUEL CAMERON Year 11 Swan Christian College, formerly of Central Midlands Senior High School
SOPHIE TAYLOR Year 11 Methodist Ladies' College, formerly of Karratha Senior High School 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour | 3
Introduction In 2021, the Premier’s Anzac Student Tour travelled intrastate to commemorate nation building between the wars and defence of the home front during WWII. Over 18 years, 216 students from across the three education sectors have been selected to represent Western Australia as tour ambassadors. On their return, these students share their experiences both within their local communities and more widely online. Selection for the 2021 Tour was based on student participants producing an extended written response, and undertaking panel interviews. Many chose to research family members including great great-grandfathers (Jacobus Vermulen and Wilhelm Asmus), and great uncles (George Henry Bracknell and Leonard Arthur Bracknell investiged by Maya Gibson). The 2021 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour travelled to Kununurra on Friday, 16 April 2021 and returned from Albany on Monday, 26 April 2021.
INTRODUCTION
Locations of particular historical interest included the Oliver Hill battery and tunnels on Rottnest, the Special Air Service Regiment Museum at Campbell Barracks, and the State Library of Western Australia to explore the military collection items. Ms Kate Akerman, Education Officer at the State Library of Western Australia, Ms Emily Donders, HASS teacher, Rossmoyne Senior High School, and Mr Tony Granich, Deputy Principal, Hampton Senior High School were selected as teacher supervisors. Joined on tour by guest speakers including veterans, alumni, historians and curators, participants examined the Anzac legacy in the context of Western Australia’s pastoral heritage. Inquiry processes were driven by a single question: Why might historical events matter to me, my community or the world?
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Departure and arrival As I walked through the doors into the Perth Airport, there was a great sense of excitement and anticipation among all the tour participants for the next ten days' adventure ahead of us. After a three and a half hour flight, we stepped out onto the Kununurra tarmac and were hit by the 37 degree heat. We collected our luggage and hopped onto the bus, travelling to the Kununurra Museum and Historical Society. We were fortunate enough to have Andrew Barker show us around, and share his knowledge and passion for Kununurra’s history. The museum was filled from top to bottom with historical artefacts and information ranging from the history of the Durack family to crocodile and bull skulls.
We spent the afternoon immersed in the town's history at the Kununurra Museum and Historical Society with enthusiastic and explorative curator Andrew Barker. I was fascinated to see the variety of artefacts collected from the country around us and really gave perspective to the depth of Australian history. Lucy's strife and struggle also provided a new insight into the Anzac legacy as she argued Beersheba as an alternative to Gallipoli as a representation of the Anzac spirit and the attributes of our soldiers, while Grace's research into the Ord River Irrigation System furthered my understanding of the interconnectedness of events as she explored the story of the Duracks. At the museum, I presented my Strife and Struggle Time Capsule research on the Battle of Beersheba to the group and received some constructive feedback and stimulating questions. Following my talk, Grace presented her field trip speech on the Ord Valley Irrigation Scheme. I was interested to hear about the pivotal role of the Ord Valley Irrigation Scheme, which generates hydroelectricity to power the Kimberley region.
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Everywhere I looked was content that struck chords within me. One of my main takeaways from today was just how interconnected everything was. Stories, like the many that came from the Durack family of Western Australia, lead from one to the other. It showed me that although the population of Western Australia may be spread out across the State, our stories are still tightly intertwined. It gives a sense of community and unification towards a common goal. This was a perfect way to start the 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour, and I have high hopes for the next nine days. 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour | 5
A trek through time After the dam and the Ord River, we visited the Argyle homestead, the traditional home of the Durack family. The small homestead had been disassembled, piece by piece, and rebuilt 16km from its original location in 1969 due to the construction of the new dam in the late 1960s. The homestead was full of artefacts of the Durack family, and it was a pleasing experience to be able to decipher the long, confusing family tree of the Durack family.
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HOW TO FIND THE PERFECT SUNNIES FOR YOUR FACE SHAPE
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JENNICA LEE, THE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
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TRENDING: FASHION STYLE TRENDS FOR FEMALE MILLENIALS
The Waringarri Aboriginal Arts Centre was our next stop, which saw us engage with Ted Carlton, an Indigenous man born on Carlton station who shared with us the great depth and complexity of his experiences. Once arriving back at the hotel, Darcy's speech on frontier conflict kicked off a discussion with the group that saw a myriad of ideas, views and anecdotes enter the forum. I saw this as a conclusion of the thoughtprovoking day, with the forum we created in the hotel courtyard a perfect chance for all of us to give our input and share perspectives. Our guides, Ted Carlton and Agnes, kindly showed us their amazing artwork as well as providing some history on the artists and the paintings themselves. They then treated us to some delicious bush tucker including boab nuts, waterlilies and damper, providing some new experiences for all of us. Ted also played the digeridoo while his brother sang some traditional songs alongside him. This visit gave us an inside look into the significance of the Indigenous Australians' history in the Kununurra area during the period of the cattle stations, as well as how important it is to preserve their culture and traditions. 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour | 6
Events of WWII Day three was filled with exquisite views as we drove through the Kimberley scenery, stopping at the Afghan Cemetery and The Grotto. The cemetery was very secluded in the serene bush-desert landscape, and the town of Wyndham was quite dated and deserted. The seclusion and emptiness which was embodied by the landscape, the cemetery and Wyndham contrasted with the immense amount of history and fullness which we discovered about the Afghan cameleers and Wyndham at the Historical Museum in the Old Court House. I felt wistful walking through a town so vacant and obsolete, knowing that it was once so significant and lively. Finally, the sights as we descended into the gorge known as The Grotto were simply breathtaking. It felt refreshing to dip my feet in the water after descending through the vast, unruly terrain. Today's activities made me realise just how much of an impact history can have on our attitude towards certain places and people, especially after discovering what they once were.
Display image in Wyndham Museum
I found the history behind Wyndham eye-opening. Not only about the historical relation to the town by both the Afghans and the Aboriginal people, but also just how close the potential invasion and conflict towards the town was. On the way back to Kununurra we altered our course to visit The Grotto. This was a pool hidden in a gorge, that was absolutely amazing: Boabs, slippery rocks and ridged rock walls lined the perimeter of the pool, while roped swings added to the fun of this experience. 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour | 7
Events of WWII
While visiting the Wyndham Historical Society and Museum, I soon realised that the town was reliant on landscape and did not benefit from rapid economic change. Its initial life source was the discovery of gold at Halls Creek. After the gold rush, Wyndham was significant as a port for the transport of Cattle to Robbs Jetty in Fremantle. This continued until 1940, when trucks became a more efficient mode of transport. Nevertheless, during WWII Wyndham had the capacity to act as a military port but was bombed by the Japanese on March 3 1942. After the second World War, the town continued as a vibrant port until Kununurra was gazetted in 1961. This sounded the death knell for Wyndham. Today it is virtually a ghost town with a population of 500 people, yet its history highlights the town’s importance in the opening of the Kimberley during the pioneering heyday at the turn of the 20th Century. This economic and physical transformation is critical to Western Australia yet rarely receives recognition.
As our quest to understand the history in the East Kimberley region continued, we ventured into the Wyndham and Port Wyndham. On arrival, we stood on the same shores as the very first Durack family expedition into the Kimberley region. There we visited the Museum which, much like the Kununurra museum, was jam-packed full of historical artefacts all of which we could touch and truly understand. It was any hopeful mechanic's dream with the old meat-works machinery. There were also a large number of old typewriters and radios, which were quickly becoming a favourite of ours. However, it was not all sunshine and rainbows in the museum; there was a large collection of images showing some of the terrible conditions Aboriginal Australians suffered through. Christine McLaughlin, our museum guide, shared a story from Robert Pierce, an American pilot stationed in Wyndham in World War Two around the "battle of Wyndham", and the bombings of Darwin. The key memory that stuck with me was when the soldier recalled the moment he felt closest to war: when he took a single shot at a Japanese Zero flying high above in anger rather than any combat mission he partook in later on in South-East Asia. This gave a new perspective on war time and was eye-opening to us all.
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Visiting Wyndham
Social and cultural experience Anzac Hill provided stunning views of the surrounding scenery as well as the landscape of the Ord Valley. We were told that Anzac Hill is a gathering point where the Anzac Day Dawn Service is held, as well as a point of remembrance to commemorate all of those who served and fell in the wars; and it was an honour to be able to pay our respects and commemorate especially those from Kununurra who sadly lost their lives in the midst of a devastating global conflict. On Anzac Day, as the sun rises, one can see around half of the town's population (3,500 people) gather to pay their respects and commemorate all of those who sacrificed themselves for the betterment of the nation that we call home. To see such a large gathering is astounding; it shed insight into how involved and educated the majority of the town is - to bring children alongside them to the dawn service showcased that the Anzac legacy and sacrifices are being passed down through to generations that will keep traditions alive and pass down these stories that hold such historical importance.
Anzac Hill, Kununurra
We experienced a tour of the school and had recess with the senior students before receiving an interesting and knowledgeable talk from innovator and farmer Fritz Bolten. He told us about his choices to grow cotton, mung-beans, chia and corn in initiatives to follow and find weaknesses in the market to create job opportunities in the region. I really enjoyed this experience as it was good to compare his farm and conditions faced to farming in the wheatbelt and the seasons there.
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Social and cultural experience A presentation on the significance and economic role of modern agriculture in the Kimberley from local farmer Fritz Bolten presented us with a wealth of information regarding modern and traditional agricultural practices and the challenges facing the industry. Fritz’s presentation consolidated my newfound historical knowledge of the region, connecting the historical aspects of pastoralism to contemporary farming practices and the Kimberley agricultural industry of today and tomorrow. The interconnections depicted through the presentation motivated me to reflect on the hardships of the Durack family and the development of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Following the agriculture presentation, we had the opportunity to discuss contemporary issues affecting our communities and share our historical inquiry experiences of the Kimberley with students at East Kimberley College. By hearing students’ local perspectives and stories, I was positioned to consider the historical factors that impact the town’s social, cultural and environmental aspects today. Year 9 students at East Kimberley College
With the Year 9 students, we discussed how climate change had a detrimental impact on crop growing which could be potentially devastating for a place like Kununurra that relies so heavily on agriculture. It was great to be able to have these conversations considering that we are the generation of people who are going to have to tackle these issues head-on and the restoration of the world is in our hands. I found these conversations very enlightening and I enjoyed being able to hear their perspectives as kids from the Kimberley.
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War and peace My key takeaway from today was the vast stretches of historical knowledge I gained in regard to Broome’s pearling industry and impact of WWII, throughout our engagement at the Broome Museum. It was particularly significant to evaluate the question ‘what we should believe when accounts of the same historical events are in conflict’ in regard to the Air Raid that occurred on Broome’s shores, known as the Arabian Nights. On 8 December 1941, Australia joined America in declaring war on the Japanese, and almost immediately, all pearling activity ceased in Broome. Men from Broome rushed to join the forces and the industry’s labour pool vanished overnight Japanese residents were interned in camps and as Broome’s pearling industry relied heavily on the skill and experience of the Japanese divers, this was an economic death toll for both Broome and the wider West Australian community. In January 1942, pearlers were informed that their luggers were to be purchased by the Australian Navy and any unseaworthy vessels destroyed as a provision against a Japanese landing. Meanwhile, women and children were evacuated from Broome under the threat of a Japanese attack or occupation. Broome resembled a ghost town with a small military garrison and some civilians. A month later in February 1942, Broome was used as the Australian end of an air shuttle service from Java. Military personnel and refugees were transported to Broome in Australian military aircraft.
Artefacts from Broome Historical Museum
At the Broome Historical Museum, Michael Lake delivered an in-depth analysis of the town’s history and its involvement in past conflicts. We gained knowledge of the town’s pearling industry and changing relationship dynamics among diverse ethnic groups within the community. We then visited the Heritage Centre of the Sisters of St John of God which provided a global view of the development of Broome in relation to the Irish sisters’ influence on the Aboriginal community. The stories shared by volunteers Kevin and Shirley also shaped my understanding of the influences of war, and the differing treatments that individuals received dependent on their race. 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour | 11
War and peace We were fortunate enough to visit Broome Historical Museum where Michael Lake discussed how Broome changed economically over time through its multicultural population. He also spoke passionately about the events of the bombing of Broome. His detailed recount of the events was helpful for me to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the cultural and economic significance it had on the town and its residents. Listening to Michael allowed me to comprehend the military importance of Broome during World War Two and why it was bombed by the Japanese. We also visited the Sisters of St John of God Heritage Centre where we heard from two locals about their family’s history and experiences at Beagle Bay. Hearing from local Broome residents made the events and impacts of the war seem more real and close to home. At Broome Senior High School we were lucky enough to receive a tour of the school from 2019 tour alumnus, Bree Potter. After an incredible day exploring Broome, we said goodbye as we hopped on our flight to Perth, ready for the coming days in the southern parts of the State.
Bree Potter, 2019 tour alumnus joined us for dinner at the Broome RSLWA Sub-Branch
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One nation, many stories Day six was our trip to Rottnest, and we were up early in the morning to jump straight onto the ferry and make our way to the holiday island. Our first appointment was with Walter McGuire, a local Whadjuk Nyungar man who gave us an insight on the Aboriginal perspective on Rottnest Island’s history. Our tour with Walter started with a traditional Welcome to Country ceremony, so that we could pass freely and safely on Wadjemup (the Whadjuk Nyungar name for Rottnest Island). It was an enriching experience to be immersed within Aboriginal culture and it was my first time ever taking part in a traditional Aboriginal ceremony.
Craft workers
Hearing about the way the Indigenous people were treated and imprisoned for years for what was usually seemingly insignificant crimes really helped enlighten us about the hardships faced on Wadjemup. What I found really interesting was the way Ian, our second guide, explained the formation of the island to us by utilising sand and water to show the formation of Rottnest to explain how the island came to be. Getting to hear such distinct stories allowed us to have a more enriched understanding, and also allowed us to form a more rounded opinion of the matter. .
We cycled away from the settlement along a series of salt lakes, framed against a stunning vista. The Oliver Hill Battery showed to us the entire island and views of the lakes and turbine. Our tour guide, Ian, took us through the battery which was an important part of the Fortress Fremantle concept - a World War Two defensive strategy relying on a series of forts to protect shipping and the naval base at Fremantle. Rottnest is a historical sanctuary situated outside the bustling metropolis of Perth which showed us that, even on a small island, decades of rich history could be tapped into anywhere. 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour | 13
One nation, many stories The Wadjemup cultural tour today at Rottnest Island offered an alternative perspective to the typical perception of Rottnest Island as a fun tourist destination. We delved into the macabre reality of Aboriginal incarceration during colonial settlement, and embraced the traditional Noongar culture of Rottnest Island through the dreamtime stories and songs shared by Walter McGuire, our tour guide. I found that the recurring theme of freedom versus confinement was eminent throughout the day, both through Walter’s personal stories as an Aboriginal man and through our other guide Ian’s walk-through of the obscure and untold history which shadows the utopian island.
Oliver Hill Battery display image
As well as being a prison and internment camp, Rottnest Island has a military history with there being two local batteries. We visited the biggest of the two, Oliver Hill Battery, situated in the middle of the island with a radial range of 28km. Our time with Ian came to an end with a night-time story tour which challenged our critical and analytical thinking. Today was also the sixteenth birthday of our great friend, and fellow tour participant, Jack Watters. After six days of non-stop travelling, learning, and engagement, it was amazing to sit down for dinner together and celebrate.
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One nation, many stories Ian's stories were fascinating and helped me visualise what it would have been like to live on Rottnest as an Indigenous Australian, a Governor or worker during times of difficulties and hardships. I found my understanding of Western Australia’s legacy and involvement in global conflicts developed. I was also interested to link history to our journey around Kununurra, Broome and Perth; all are connected with the land, and land use, in turn has affected their history, since people's treatment has subsequently shaped their involvement in global conflicts. WWII Tunnels at Oliver Hill Battery
We visited the Oliver Hill Gun and Tunnels, and explored its history as an extension of Fortress Fremantle and its role in defending the Australian home front. Walking through the tunnels in the footsteps of past service people was a poignant experience as our tour guide engaged us with all aspects of their service on Rottnest Island. The Oliver Hill tour inspired me to consider the often unrecognised hardships and difficulty experienced by the soldiers on the home front.
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Perspective At the Special Air Service Regiment, Major Greg Mawkes, MBE recipient and Vietnam veteran gave a briefing before we split up into separate groups to view the museums which were informative, engaging and accessible. It was great to learn the history of the museum and how the soldiers go about their work in these environments. Our guide had an incredible depth of knowledge and it certainly rubbed off on me as we saw the scale of operations and the danger the men put themselves in for our country’s sake.
SASR Historical Foundation Museum
During the SASR visit, we explored the machinery and uniforms, and delved into the practicality of their work. We also visited the museum section which helped me understand the history of the SASR and their influence. Visiting the SASR gallery complemented this experience as a more interpretative nature of conflict was apparent. We finished the day with a walk through the memorial garden. What resonated for me was that most of those recognised had not died while serving. The majority of personnel deaths were as a result of elite training and an application process which demonstrates the dedication of this training. 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour | 16
Perspective
At the State Library of Western Australia, Toni and Kate gave us a tour of the archives and storage, including the Creating Perth exhibition that was on display. In the storage sections, we visited an insulated room with humidity control to maintain the perfect atmosphere and conditions for the rare book collection. A highlight of the visit was listening to Peter Edwards discuss a selection of images, maps and documents from numerous wars, as well as performing a Turkish folk song, Chanakkale, that is the equivalent to Waltzing Matilda. I came away appreciating that in any war, both sides need to be acknowledged after the conflict has ended rather than focusing on only one side. It was incredible to be able to witness the rows and rows of rare books and historical documents. While we were not able to handle the papers ourselves, we were very fortunate to have archivist Peter Edwards show and explain some of the artefacts to us. These included letters sent during the war, original maps and even a diary from World War One. I was astonished to be so close to all of these valuable records of history. Following an amazing day investigating the history of Perth in more depth, we returned to the hotel and packed our bags for the morning flight to Albany, with excitement to explore the final destination of the tour.
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Witness of history This morning’s early morning start saw us back in Perth Airport to travel down to Albany. We visited the National Anzac Centre where we were each able to follow a personal story of a soldier or nurse through their involvement in conflict. The information was well presented and it was very meaningful to be connected to a particular figure. We then made our way around the location looking at the different gun defences and also the location of the Dawn Service. This was especially meaningful to me as Albany is very close to home and I was walking in the footsteps of the men and women who had gone to fight for our country. To know that I shared a place of importance with those soldiers so long ago, made me feel very connected to them, and even more saddened by the atrocities they faced.
We roamed around Princess Fortress on the top of Mount Adelaide, exploring the outdoor military museum and site of the National Anzac Centre. We began by strolling up to the Convoy Lookout, where we got a view of Ataturk Channel, with stunning views over King George Sound, leading into Princess Royal Harbour. This is where the ships filled with Australian and New Zealand soldiers departed for Gallipoli on 1 November 1914. Set onto the granite peak of Mount Adelaide, the Convoy’s elevated view over the sound is breathtaking. Ataturk is the Turkish name given to the bay – the Turkish Government reciprocally named the beach at Gallipoli where the Australian and New Zealand troops landed as Anzac Cove.
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Strategy and survival A highlight of the day was Albany’s Historic Whaling Station Museum which actually used to be an operating whaling station up until the late 1970s. Much of the original machinery and sheds had been preserved to create the museum and therefore as part of our tour we were taken through the step-by-step process of whaling, from actually catching them to then flensing and boiling them. It was quite horrific to think that less than a few decades ago, the land on which we stood would have been covered in whale blood and body parts. Despite being quite disgusted, I was also fascinated with the thought process behind the selection of whaling and why many were so convinced that it was economically and ecologically viable.
Albany history at the old Whaling Station
In the afternoon, we interviewed Vietnam veteran, Ralph Flowers, who shared an invaluable insight into his experience of the war and what it was really like for Australian conscripts. We were very fortunate that he was extremely open about his experiences in Vietnam, and he was willing to share what the conditions were like, his experience returning from Vietnam, what fighting was like, and what his own personal opinions were on Australia participating in the war. I have found that many veterans prefer not to talk about their experiences; if they do, it is rarely in much detail. With Ralph, I gained a much deeper understanding of social attitudes towards the Vietnam war during the 1960s and 1970s, and a genuine war experience. 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour | 19
Commemorating Anzac Day The service was unlike any that I had gone to; the beautiful Albany landscape surrounding the striking memorial in the middle made for an extremely moving and emotional service. I was also fortunate enough to wear the World War One medals of my great great-grandfather for the service, something that made me feel extremely proud and honoured. At the conclusion of the service, we ran into Captain Aaron Porebski, a tour alumni from the very first Premier's Anzac Tour group in 2004. Aaron told us how the tour had influenced him, and how he had actually joined the armed forces because of that influence.
The Dawn Service was a beautiful commemoration to the colossal, and ultimate sacrifice many Australians and New Zealanders have made to protect the bastions of liberty and freedom we call home. As the horizon radiated intense orange behind us, the formal proceedings ended with a most moving tribute. The service was easily the greatest I have ever attended, and the local community, after the gunfire breakfast, gathered to march down York Street. As we entered the Peace Park on the edge of the Princess Royal Harbour, the scale of the event really came into play, and it was moving to see so many people gathered, united, equal, and unwavering in dedication to assuring not just that we, the Australian people, never forgot the sacrifice and horror of war but also commit to remembering the invaluable lessons history has to teach us all.
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Commemorating Anzac Day Today marked the culmination of the Premier's Anzac Student Tour: Anzac Day. In the pitch darkness and silence before dawn on Mount Clarence, we solemnly remembered the servicemen and women who toiled through unfathomable hardship so that we could stand on Australian soil in peace and safety, as we did today. Our wreath was laid as the sun illuminated the horizon, and the ceremony of gratitude and reflection came to a peaceful close.
The Desert Mounted Corps Memorial, Mount Clarence
What I took away from today was that by remembering those who fought for our country, we are constantly reminded not only of the price of freedom, but also how fortunate we are to live in this country. Remembering those who never returned home shouldn’t be defined by a time or a date but by a memory and, after what I have experienced today, I believe that this should be taken into account every day.
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Returning home and reflections
Day 11 brought goodbyes and reflection. We farewelled Darcy, Max and Maya who left early. We filed onto the bus for a final time ready for the ride from Albany to Perth, stopping at Mt Barker and at Williams for lunch. After a good four-and-a-half-hour trip we arrived at East Perth terminal to be picked up. After more goodbyes and encouraging each other to catch up, we left what had been an awesome tour.
The 2021 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour has been a rewarding and life-changing experience. I am so proud to be a part of an initiative which offers secondary students a chance to learn more about and share the Anzac legacy.This tour has allowed for personal growth, as I feel like I am able to walk away and share my experiences, as well as my renewed understanding and knowledge of the Anzac legacy.
During the five-hour trip back to Perth we finished writing these tour journals which let us cast our minds back to the first day on tour and how far we’d come. The amount of history we’ve covered and the people we’ve met will stay with me for the rest of my life; it was truly an experience this journal is not able to describe in words. There is so much in the State we live in it would take a millennium to fully explore it all.
The history that we have had the privilege of learning is something I hope to remember, and share with others for many years to come. Although Western Australia may not have fought off invaders as other nations have had to do during two World Wars, Traditional owners of the land have been forced to confront European colonial settlement; this tour has allowed me to gain a better understanding of how rich in history our State really is. 2021 Premier's Anzac Student Tour | 22
privilege.
Returning home and reflections
Leaving the tour, I have a new perspective on the history of this State: Our travels through Wyndham, Kununurra, Broome, Rottnest and Albany have all provide a unique perspective on the history of Western Australia. I have come to realise that it is not what is written in the history books that really matters, but the lived experiences and lasting effects on the community and individuals living today. This understanding of history that I developed was not groundless. My fellow tour participants and supervisors helped guide our discussions, and feedback had shaped insights. The tour allowed me to work with like-minded people to consider the contestable nature of history. I hope that with this, I can share what I have learnt and inspire other students to recognise the Anzac legacy.
Blended emotions, solemn reflection and the prospect of returning home permeated the final day of the 2021 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour. I have formed close-knit friendships with all my fellow tour members and the teacher chaperones, and I am grateful to have experienced the learning and commemorative aspects of the tour alongside them. As an avid history student, I have felt inspired by the origins of Western Australia and its vibrant and rich history. From Kununurra to Albany, we heard stories and events related to First Nations' heritage, pastoralism in the Kimberley, defence on the home front and the shaping of the Anzac legacy in Western Australia. The 2021 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour has offered me a wealth of knowledge and historical exposure.
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Returning home and reflections
Despite the many long days, the tour came to an end all too quickly. This morning we had our last breakfast together before beginning our many goodbyes. Myself, Max and Darcy were the first to leave, but the knowledge that I wouldn’t see these incredible people again the following day didn’t sink in straight away. As I headed back home to Denmark, I had an opportunity to reflect on the many wonderful experiences of the tour. This trip has been a life-changing experience. I have learnt so much about the history of my home State of Western Australia, made some amazing friends, shared in unforgettable memories and continued the legacy of the Anzacs. It is important to recognise not only our soldiers and service personnel, but also the Traditional Custodians of the land, and all those who have shaped it into the incredible place it is today. Lest we forget.
One of my main takeaways from our voyages between regional destinations across Western Australia, is the importance of understanding our own State’s history, landscapes and people, before branching outwards to tackle more complex, foreign environments. While these tours typically venture overseas, I feel as though I’ve benefited more from learning the history and heritage present in my own backyard. Prior to the tour, my perception of Western Australian history was admittedly quite primitive and shallow. However, I’ve certainly found myself surprised by our rich heritage stretching almost 4000km from Albany to Kununurra, and the wealth of local stories revealing how societal changes have shaped the prosperous State we are today. Reflections of the Anzac legacy begin right here, on our own soil, and the 2021 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour had the privilege of realising this.
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Returning home and reflections
I would like to acknowledge and thank the many people that played a role in making the 2021 tour go despite the many road bumps and moments of uncertainty. A special thanks to the Premier of Western Australia, Mark McGowan, and the State Government of Western Australia for making the opportunity available. We are extremely grateful that we were fortunate enough to be able to enrich ourselves on this study tour. I would also like to thank Teacher Supervisors Ms Emily Donders, Mr Tony Granich, and Ms Kate Akerman whose deep passion for history and knowledge create an insightful and open environment. I am extremely grateful for Champion Bay Senior High School and the Gifted and Talented Online Program who supported me every step of the way. And of course, a special acknowledgement and deep thanks to coordinator Ms Samantha Boswell because without her hard work and dedication, the tour would never have happened.
I would like to thank the Premier and the State Government for making this program available to the youth of Western Australia, and I am extremely proud to now call myself a Premier’s Anzac Student Tour alumni. The experience was truly amazing, and it was an experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. I would also like to thank my humanities teachers, school, and Ms Boswell for organising us. To the other participants of the 2021 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour: I am truly grateful to have toured around our wonderful State with a group of intelligent, thoughtful and interesting people, who I am sure will remain close friends for years to come.
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