Ten Victorian students will be given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a country so pivotal to Australia’s military history – Vietnam.
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, the group of 10 will visit Australia’s key battle sites as well as places of historic significance in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
Melton MP Don Nardella encouraged year 10 and 11 students in his electorate to apply for a spot on the state government-sponsored nine-day study tour that will shine a light on a war that divided the nation.
About 60,000 Australian ground troops, air force and navy personnel served in Vietnam, and 521 were killed.
“When entering the competition, students are asked to explore the topics of the ‘controversial Vietnam war’ and the issues that prompted debate amongst a nation,” Mr Nardella said.
“The 13-year war was set against a backdrop of divided public opinion over conscription and the use of chemical and guerrilla warfare. The Vietnam War was the first to be played out on television.”
Students can make written submissions or enter craft or audio visual projects. Entries close on Saturday, March 27, next year.
Teachers wishing to secure a chaperone position are also encouraged to apply. The study group will travel in September 2016.
For more information, visit vvaavic.org.au
