Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education, Andrew Gee, today announced the winners and runners-up from each state and territory in the annual Simpson Prize competition for Year 9 and 10 students.
Mr Gee said nearly 900 Australian students participated this year in the national competition, reflecting on the significance of Anzac Day and Australia’s wartime history.
“While public health advice means we couldn’t hold an awards ceremony, I want to recognise the fantastic work of all students who participated in this year’s competition,” Mr Gee said.
Mr Gee said the History Teachers’ Association of Australia received many outstanding entries, filled with rich family histories and superbly researched accounts of past events.
“We must never forget the service and sacrifice of those Australians who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations,” Mr Gee said.
“It is inspiring to see the next generation taking a strong interest in the ANZAC tradition and learning about events that shaped our national identity.”
Next year’s competition question is: ‘How do lesser known stories from the Western Front expand our understanding of the Australian experience of the First World War?’
The Australian Government has supported the Simpson Prize since 1998.
The presentation ceremony, and the winners’ trip to Europe to visit key battlefields will be delayed until later in the year, with timing contingent on the latest health advice.
The list of winners, runners-up from each state and territory and teacher chaperones follow.
