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Download the entry pack here (word) >>
The ANZAC spirit has different meanings for each of us, and yet ANZAC is an instantly identifiable marker of our unique Australian character. From the tradition that tempered our nation on the cliffs at Gallipoli to the reality lived by those serving today, ANZAC has been a testament of Australian culture for over 100 years. ANZAC places are ingrained in our national psyche and extend far beyond Gallipoli or World War I to dozens of places that combined create a roll call of sacrifice. Each generation understands the burden of ANZAC is a debt we cannot live up to except to continue to live as the nation we are – generous and free. In a truly unique way, Australia uses ANZAC day to reflect on the events of our military past, to emphasise remembrance, and to contemplate the lessons of our history.
This year for ANZAC day, to continue this tradition of contemplation, I along with our community RSL sub-branches will inaugurate an annual writing competition open to high school students in grades 9 and 10 in the Pine Rivers community.
The aim of this writing competition is to provide a new generation the opportunity to express their understanding and interest in ANZAC men and women of the past and present. It is hoped that these written pieces will offer fresh perspectives that bring to light the spirit of ANZAC in writing.
In your written pieces you are encouraged to highlight what the ANZAC spirit means to you. For some the ANZAC spirit encompasses a ‘can-do’ attitude, the bringing together of a community, being there for a mate when they are in need or the love from those who answer the call to service and sacrifice and the life they leave behind. These are some traditional perspectives, but new ones are found every year – and this year yours are welcome too.
Whatever your interpretation of the ANZAC spirit is, the stories can take the form of a poem, short story, narrative essay or descriptive essay. The written pieces should be no more than 1,000 words.
The ANZAC writing competition will open on the 2nd of March, closing at midnight on the 2nd of April. Judging will be undertaken by a panel of President’s from local RSL sub-branches.
Nikki
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