Thousands of Queensland students get creative for Remembrance Day

Harnessing the power of artistic expression, the ‘Draw to Remember’ initiative spans across the state – offering Queensland children the chance to learn about the importance of Remembrance Day from local veterans in their area while expressing their learnings or personal stories through art.  

Building upon the success of last year’s pilot, the uptake of involvement has more than doubled with more than 8,000 students from 196 schools set to create vibrant displays of remembrance, paying thoughtful respect to those who have served and sacrificed through art.  

Members of Sub Branches and veterans from some 70 RSL Sub Branches across Queensland will visit local schools to provide educational presentations on the significance of Remembrance Day.  

RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM said he was proud to see the continuation of this meaningful initiative that supports students as they reflect and explore their personal connection to past and present serving members of the Australian Defence Force. 

“As we look to the future, it is essential that we remind the community about the significance of commemorations such as Remembrance Day and ensure that the legacy of those who fought for our freedom continues,” MAJGEN Day said. 

“By engaging the next generations with age-appropriate activities, we can strengthen young Australians appreciation for those who went before them, many paying the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy today.”  

One student who understands the importance of remembrance is Premier’s ANZAC Prize recipient Year 9 student Thomas Eccleston. 

Thomas said his experience visiting memorial sites along the Western Front battlefields in Belgium and France this year as part of the Prize opened his eyes to the significance of learning about Australia’s military history and commemorative days like Remembrance Day.  

“The opportunity to visit to some of Australia’s most significant battlefields helped me appreciate what life was like for veterans. This experience made me recognise how important events like Remembrance Day are for honouring what our service men and women did for our country,” Thomas said.  

For more information on Remembrance Day and where to attend your local service, visit remembertoremember.com.au.