GVGS are pleased to advise that Year 11 student, Sophie Birrell, has won the prestigious Spirit of Anzac Prize. This excellent achievement will take her on a study tour to Türkiye from 23 September to 2 October 2024, during the September school holidays with eleven other recipients. This experience will deepen students’ understanding of Australia’s military history, the service of our veterans and the enduring friendship between Australia and Türkiye.

The Spirit of Anzac Prize recognises students who embody the Anzac spirit through their work, and Sophie has done so in an extraordinary way. Her winning entry, a meticulously crafted quilt, was inspired by the Changi quilts of 1942. These quilts, created by British, Australian and New Zealand women imprisoned in Changi Prison during World War II, carried messages of hope and support to the men imprisoned nearby. The judges commended Sophie on her application and personal statement which demonstrated your community focus and commitment to exploring our significant war and peacekeeping history

In her artist statement, Sophie reflected on how the bravery and courage of the Changi women inspired her quilt. She aimed to create a visual remembrance for all the men, women, and children who lost their lives in the efforts of war and peacekeeping. The quilt features the Ode of Remembrance by Laurence Binyon (1914), framed by a border of poppies, symbolising both the fallen soldiers and the enduring peace they fought to secure.

Her quilt is also a tribute to the unsung heroes of war—First Nations soldiers, medical personnel, and women on the front lines. The silhouettes and imagery woven into the fabric are a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by so many, ensuring that their legacy is not forgotten.

This study tour will not only be a rewarding experience for her but will also serve as a significant opportunity to further explore and honour the history she has so beautifully represented in her quilt. We congratulate Sophie on her outstanding achievement and look forward to hearing about the insights and reflections she will bring back from this journey.

We also congratulate Mrs Natalie Wyatt, Humanities and Business Coordinator, who has been selected for the volunteer role of Teacher Chaperone on the study tour to Türkiye.

Lest We Forget.