Inspiration and opportunity

An interest in her great-grandfather’s service in World War II led Year 11 student Larissa Zanardo to delve further into the history of conflict, earning her The Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize and a place on a study tour to Darwin and Singapore next mont

YEAR 11 Sacred Heart College student Larissa Zanardo was recently announced as the winner of 2017-2018’s The Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize.

The prize provides 22 Victorian students the opportunity to participate in an overseas study tour to sites where Australians have served in times of war and peacekeeping.

Larissa will participate in a small group study tour exploring World War II sites including Darwin and Singapore during the term one holidays.

She said the tour will be a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the service and sacrifice of war veterans.

“I was extremely grateful and proud to have this opportunity to represent Victoria,” Larissa said.

“When I found out I was immediately in tears.

“I couldn’t believe that out of so many worthy people I had this amazing chance to explore and find out more about Australia’s services in the wars.”

Having always been intrigued by both the world wars, Larissa explained that she often felt a strong connection to those who served in them.

Her interest has mainly been about the soldiers’ experiences and feelings and she said the impending study tour meant a great deal to her, especially given her close family associations with the conflicts.

“By physically being in the actual places that our armed forces fought in, it will help so much for me to get a deeper understanding and really understand what they went through,” she said.

“My great-grandfather served for the whole duration of World War II and by being a part of this incredible tour I feel like I am honouring him and all the others who fought.

“I really feel that this trip will make me