Keelee Smith receives Spirit of Anzac scholarship

Keelee took out the prize with an essay delving into the perspectives and attributes of several different people who have served for Australia.

As part of the prize, the year 11 student will receive a $2500 scholarship to be used to support her education.

Keelee was inspired to enter the program by her family’s history of serving in the Australian armed forces, with both her father and grandfather past servicemen.

“I’ve always had a passion for it, and history in general,” she said.

“It was great just to talk to people, and be able to keep the Anzac spirit alive I suppose, because not a lot of people talk about it, obviously for reasons they don’t want to, but also because many people don’t ask about it.

“I thought it would be a good way to connect with people, I was really lucky being able to do that.”

The program runs annually, open to year 9, 10 and 11 students, giving them the opportunity to explore the themes in differing forms of poetry, audio, video, digital and as art work.

Keelee interviewed four people to gain differing perspectives, one of whom served in the Navy, another in the Air Force and two in the Army, one being her own father.

Through talking to each person for around 30 minutes, Keelee found that each story held nuance.

“I gained some different perspectives, they’re all very different,” she said.

“They all did similar things, but just very different perspectives on the whole idea and how they thought it would turn out.”

The essay focuses on the attributes and qualities apparent in each serviceman, specifically how they displayed ingenuity, mateship and good humour throughout their time served.

Year 11 and 12 history teacher at St Augustine’s College Simon Costello said he was extremely proud to have a student win such a prestigious award.

“Keelee’s essay has shown her understanding and recognition of the important part that the Anzac spirit plays in out national history and identity,” Mr Costello said.

“By educating future generations on the history and importance of our defence force, we ensure students understand the great sacrifices Australian men and women have made for the nation over the years and continue to make.”

While winning the prize was a shock to the 17-year-old, she was incredibly grateful for the opportunity.

“I honestly thought I didn't get it, I think it was supposed to come out in October and then they changed it to late 2021, and then I got it the other night and I ran to my parents and started crying and was like, ‘I got it!’,“ she said with a laugh.

Keelee is hoping to use the winnings to purchase a laptop for her final year of VCE.