Six students have today been awarded the 2016-17 Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize, named in honour of Tasmania’s last surviving World War I veteran.
Playing a key role in helping Tasmanian students learn more about Tasmania’s rich military history, the Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize gives students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of World War I.
As we all look towards a brighter future it is important we acknowledge our past and I’m sure Frank MacDonald, his family and his descendants would be proud to know the service and sacrifice of Tasmania’s servicemen and women of over 100 years ago is continued to be recognised by Tasmania’s next generation.
Since Mr MacDonald died at the age of 107 in 2003 when the Prize started, recipients are given the opportunity to participate in a 10-day study tour of the Western Front in France and Belgium, taking in many of the areas where Mr MacDonald served.
The most recent prize winner’s trip provided the students with an amazing educational experience that they will always remember, even with a delay.
Administered by the Department of Education and Department of Premier and Cabinet, the prize is open to Tasmanian Year 9 students from government and non-government schools, as well as home-schooled students.
The recipients of the 2016-17 Frank MacDonald Prize are:
Two teachers will support these students; Nicholas Clements from Launceston Church Grammar School, and Jillian Hoogenhout from Leighland Christian School, as well as Alex Dick representing the RSL and a Parliamentary delegate.
More information about the competition and the study tour is available at education.tas.gov.au or facebook.com/macdonaldprize.
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