HUMANITIES

Jewish Holocaust Museum Excursion
As part of the Year 10 History From Peace to War course, one of the significant events that students study is the Holocaust. To deepen their understanding of the loss of over six million Jews during the reign of the Nazis, students visit the Jewish Holocaust Centre (JHC) where they are able to hear from a survivor.
On Thursday August 31, the two classes heard from Jack who was 15 years old when he was forced into a labour camp. In 1943, he was sent to the infamous Auschwitz extermination camp and was tattooed with the number 140964, a number that is still a visible reminder of his ordeal today.
After hearing from Jack, students had the opportunity to be guided around the museum.
At the conclusion of the tour, Georgia Crosby and Jack lit a candle in remembrance of those that perished in the Holocaust.
Students are to be commended on their excellent behaviour and for the respect that they displayed at the JHC. All are encouraged to like the Facebook page and YouTube channel that the centre has set up.
The Jewish Holocaust Centre was established under the patronage of Yad Vashem, Jerusalem and, from its humble beginnings in 1984, has grown to become an active and internationally-recognised institution dedicated to combating racism, hatred and prejudice by fostering tolerance and understanding.
This film looks atthe past 30 years and how the Jewish Holocaust Centre in Melbourne has grown.
Kristy Mays
VCE Humanities Teacher
Battle for Australia Ceremony Excursion
The Battle for Australia Ceremony held on Thursday 6 September this year, commemorates the service and sacrifice of all those who served in defence of Australia in 1942 and 1943 when we faced the gravest threats to our nation.
This national day of observance provides recognition and greater community awareness of the contribution of those who fought in the Battle for Australia.
There were direct attacks on the Australian mainland, particularly in Darwin, battles in the Coral Sea and Papua and New Guinea, including Milne Bay and the Kokoda Track.
I was honoured and surprised that in this year’s service, the Shrine’s Governor and Battle For Australia Chairman Colonel John Coulson (retired), mentioned my grandfather, Jim (James) Bruce. Seventy five years ago, my Pa fought on the Kokoda Track with the 39th Battalion and he was commemorated at a service two weeks ago at the Shrine. When speaking with John, Pa mentioned how important it is for people to remember what happened. John echoed that sentiment again today.
I would like to pay special thanks to the Year 12 students who attended today’s service; Ollie Hackett, James Fenby, Emma Fenby, Emily Rice, Taylor Fergus, Caleb McKeon, and Matt Musilli.
Many of these students have been attending the Battle For Australia Ceremony since they began at Lilydale High School and their support over the years for this ceremony, and other ceremonies that we attend at the Shrine, is very much appreciated.
Special thanks to Emma and Caleb for being our wreath bearers today.
Kristy Mays
VCE Humanities Teacher
7.47 History
Hazel Concalves
Hieroglyphs
Gwen Haritonidis