Year 10 student William’s passion and commitment to honour the memory of the Anzacs has led to a “life changing” trip to Türkiye to trace their footsteps on the shores of Gallipoli.  

His keen interest and passion for military history was demonstrated when he was awarded a prestigious 2024 Premier’s Spirit of Anzac prize for his project exploring the Anzac legacy and the significance of the Shrine of Remembrance Melbourne. 

William’s innovative artwork titled ‘Receipts, Red Cross and Remembrance’ was influenced by the montage-style glasswork ceiling by Australian artist Leonard French found in the Great Hall at the National Gallery of Victoria. French also created the stained-glass windows in the David Bradshaw Chapel at Keysborough. 

William completed the inspiring study tour of Türkiye in late 2024, along with 12 other students. 

While at Gallipoli, William made an emotional tribute to honour Lieutenant George Webster Binnie, an old Haileyburian killed in action at Quinn’s Post in 1915, by locating the panel featuring Lieutenant Binnie’s name at the Lone Pine Memorial. 

William found the Gallipoli “steep cliffs and almost impassable terrain” to be difficult to navigate and was grateful for outdoor experiences provided at Haileybury, such as trekking the Larapinta Trail in Year 9, which helped to prepare him for the physical challenge. 

This year William is also one of a handful of Years 9 and 10 students who have been appointed as Shrine of Remembrance Melbourne Young Ambassadors. In this role he participates in projects and commemorative services. In April he attended the Premier’s Anniversary of Anzac Day State Luncheon, participating in a Question and Answer session with several other past recipients of the Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize. 

“The Premier’s Sprit of Anzac Prize study tour was a life-changing trip. The incredible cultural and historical experiences, combined with lasting friendships, were all significant in giving me a firm direction for the future,” says William. He is keen to continue his interest in military history and honouring the Anzacs. 

William acknowledges the support he has received from the School OHA, Archives and Castlefield teams, particularly Head of Campus Mrs Katrina Manson and Brighton campus Middle School staff, including Mrs Linda Lightwood. He also thanks Building and Grounds Supervisor Mr Edward Baxter, the Moorabbin Air Museum and Shrine of Remembrance volunteers.