Twelve Victorian students will travel to Türkiye to walk in the footsteps of Australian service men and women, as part of the 20th year of the Premier's Spirit of Anzac Prize.
Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman today announced the 2025 Prize recipients at Parliament House, congratulating them ahead of their 11-day study tour to Gallipoli and Istanbul.
The Allan Labor Government's long-running program gives 12 students a fully funded opportunity to explore the history and legacy of the ANZACs, with this year's tour marking 110 years since the Gallipoli landings on 25 April 1915.
The students will visit Gallipoli's significant historic sites, deepening their understanding of Australia's military history and the Anzac spirit of endurance, courage, ingenuity and mateship.
Rana Bozkurt, a Turkish-Australian student from Ilim College, submitted a heartfelt piece that powerfully explored the Gallipoli campaign through both the ANZAC and Turkish perspectives. Her work offered a unique and deeply personal lens on the conflict, highlighting the shared humanity on both sides of the battlefield.
Jack Nguzo from The Grange P-12 College explored how the Anzac legacy connects to current challenges, including mental health and community resilience. He stood out for his strong commitment to giving back to his school, his community and the Congolese diaspora in Victoria.
Lucy Pilgrim from Kerang Christian College is a proud First Nations student, Junior Legatee and cadet with a family history of defence service. She expressed a strong desire to honour the Anzac legacy and share her experience with her local RSL Sub-Branch.
More than 500 students have taken part in the Premier's Spirit of Anzac Prize since it began in 2005 - selected from more than 4,000 applicants who've reflected on the service and sacrifice of Australia's veterans.
This year's winners will depart for Türkiye during the September school holidays.
As stated by Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman
"This year marks 20 years of the Premier's Spirit of Anzac Prize - a program that continues to empower young Victorians to learn about our military history and honour those who've served."
"These powerful experiences help students build knowledge, empathy and a deep appreciation of the Anzac legacy."
"I congratulate every recipient and thank all the students who took the time to reflect on the Anzac spirit through their outstanding submissions."
