Premier’s Anzac scholarship sends Rebecca to Japan

Greg Warren MP, Member for Campbelltown, has congratulated St Patrick’s College student, Rebecca Murphy, on earning the prestigious NSW Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship.

The scholarship sends Years 10 and 11 students on an overseas study tour to develop their understanding of Australian war history. Rebecca, Year 10, was one of just 20 selected from over 180 applicants. The tour will take her to Tokyo, Hiroshima and Osaka in the September school holidays.

Rebecca’s scholarship application included a compelling 1,000 word essay on Australian courage, endurance and sacrifice in war and peacekeeping operations. It was chosen by a panel of representatives from the NSW Government, the Anzac Memorial and the History Teachers’ Association of NSW.

At St Patrick’s College, Rebecca is a committed History student, a member of History Club and a Japanese language learner, so she’s well-prepared to immerse herself in both the cultural and historical aspects of the tour.

Rebecca said she anticipates many moments for study and reflection at significant sites, including the former Australian POW Camp in Naoetsu, the Yokohama War Cemetery and Hiroshima Peace Park and Memorial.

“I believe it is important for young people to learn about Australia’s military history because it forms a large part of Australian identity,” Rebecca said.

“The Anzacs gave everything to protect future generations and it is our turn to protect their legacy.”

Born in Ireland, Rebecca is keen to see more of the world before she finishes school, and she hopes her travel experience will help her choose a career path.

“I am considering my options for university — history, politics, journalism, secondary education and marketing are all possibilities!” Rebecca said.

“However, visiting as many countries as possible has always been on my list and I want a career that helps me make a positive impact on people.”

Rebecca said the staff and opportunities at St Patrick’s College have supported her love for history.

“History is the subject I’m most passionate about and the College has nurtured that through its phenomenal teachers, interesting classwork and cocurricular activities,” she said.

“My passion really flourished in Year 8, when we studied mediaeval Europe and feudal Japan. My teacher, Mrs Musico Rullo, helped me immensely with my scholarship application, including writing a letter of recommendation. I am so thankful for her support.”

Rebecca is the fourth student from St Patrick’s College to receive the NSW Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship since its inception in 2008.