Lachlan Middlemiss of St Philip’s Christian College in Gosford is one of 20 students from around NSW who will embark on a two-week historical study tour in NSW, the ACT and Darwin as part of the 2022 Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship in September.
Lachlan, 16, said he was very excited at the opportunity.
“We have a draft program and start off with a day in Sydney, followed by a tour of regional NSW, then on to Canberra, and finally a flight to Darwin to inspect the WWII sites there,” he said.
“My history teacher told me about the scholarship and it really piqued my interest as a I have a big passion for Australian history.
“It was too awesome an opportunity not to apply for – getting to travel with experts in the field.”
Lachlan said he had previously done a lot of research on Australia’s war history, particularly during WWI.
“I was looking into some of the minor war fronts – it was very interesting to learn of the Australian experience not just on the Western Front or at Gallipoli,” he said.
“I think it’s really important for young people, as potential future leaders, to have an understanding of our past – what our ancestors went through – to better guide our ethos as Australians.”
Premier Dominic Perrottet said by partaking in the tour, the students will further develop their knowledge and understanding of the history of Australians at war.
“I congratulate the scholarship recipients, who are being recognised for their positive contributions to their local communities, their respect for the service and sacrifice of Australian Defence Force personnel and their passion for studying history,” Perrottet said.
“Over 125 students applied for the scholarship, and the 20 successful applicants come from places across Sydney and regional NSW.”
Minister for Transport and Veterans, David Elliott, said the 20 successful students will visit important places associated with Australia’s military history.
“This is a wonderful experience, and it is vital that current generations continue to learn about the military history of NSW and our nation,” Elliott said.
“The tour will be accompanied by a military historian to teach students about our nation’s military past and help them understand the importance of commemoration.
“In the 80th year since the bombing of Darwin by the Japanese in 1942, students will visit significant sites associated with the Second World War in and around Darwin.”
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said by partaking in the tour, Lachlan will further develop his knowledge and understanding of the history of Australians at war.
This is a fantastic experience, and it is wonderful that current generations are given these opportunities to continue to learn about the military history of New South Wales and our nation,” he said.
Terry Collins