The red poppy symbolises remembrance of those who died or suffered in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. Canadian Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae first described the red poppy, the Flanders’ poppy, as the flower of remembrance.
ANZAC DAY SCHOOLS’ AWARD
The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) hosts the Anzac Day Schools’ Awards, a national competition where students interpret an annually set theme. In 2025, the theme is “Remembering Gallipoli: 110 years.“ We will take on the theme by focusing on the following areas about the 1915 Gallipoli Campaign, which is commemorated around Australia every year on the 25th of April.
The Gallipoli Campaign
What happened on the 25th of April 1915, and in the Gallipoli Campaign, to warrant commemorating them through a public holiday? What are some effective ways to get a school community to know about the event?
The Role Of John Monash in WW1
General John Monash fought at Gallipoli, and in France during World War One. He was a great mathematician and Civil Engineer. How did his knowledge as an Australian soldier and professional engineer help him gain a reputation as a great military leader.
Commemorating Anzac Day
What are the traditions and ceremonies that have come to be associated with Anzac Day? How have commemorations changed over the decades? What are the official ceremonies that are happening around us this year?
Maoris & Indians at Gallipoli
Over the years, some stories have become better known than others. For instance, as enough attention been shown to the international make-up of the Gallipoli Campaign that included NZ, Canada, India, France and Great Britain, Turkish and German forces?
Interviewing Veterans
How do Defence Veterans throughout Australia commemorate the 25th of April 1915? What if we were to pay attention to the stories of local veterans & their families? What might they teach us about ‘service’ to one’s country?
Interviewing Historians
Different nations have built up a substantial archive around Gallipoli. Get acquainted with the substantial records collected by the Australian, New Zealand, Indian, Canadian, French and Turkish museums and libraries.