Year 10 History

Year 10 History Excursion to the Shrine of Remembrance

On the 23rd of March, both Year 10 history classes visited the Shrine of Remembrance located just outside of Melbourne’s CBD. Students visited the commemoration site to gain a deeper understanding of World War Two and Australia’s involvement in the war effort. As a part of our study we had learnt about the causes and effects to the events of World War Two and their historical significance. Our learning within the class made us familiar with what our tour guides discussed during our time at the Shrine.

When we first arrived at the Shrine, we were greeted by volunteer workers and former war veterans. As a class we were taken into a small room which held replica and original artefacts from the Second World War. Some items included various assortments of gaiters that Australian soldiers would wear in different terrains, newspaper articles, Japanese occupation money and other military equipment that were used by soldiers during World War Two.

Next, we walked up to the top of the shrine and walked around the building overseeing the city. From the top of the Shrine you could see the gardens which each have their own meaning and The Eternal Flame which always stays alight. After this, we moved around the Gallery of Remembrance where we had the opportunity to read and examine different aspects of the Second World War and they ways in which the war effected Australia. After we roamed around, we had lunch outside. Unfortunately it had begun to rain. However, the rain could not dampen our spirits.

After lunch, we were greeted by a new tour guide and were taken into the auditorium where we were shown a short introductory film to the Shrine of Remembrance. We were then led outside to explore the various gardens that are around the site. We visited the Garden courtyard where we learnt that each plant was specifically planted in an attempt to replicate environments that soldiers fought in. Next, we were shown The Eternal Flame which was lit in 1954 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

As we moved along, we were brought back in the Gallery of Remembrance and were given a in-depth explanation to some of the strategies used by Australian soldiers to overcome German forces. Finally, we were taken to participate in our final activity, the service of remembrance, where we recognised and remembered those who fought in the war.

After the service, we then thanked our guides and placed a poppy on the walls of the student entry courtyard.

Our excursion to the Shrine helped us as students to fully acknowledge the effects of the war and gain a deeper understanding of the Second World War itself. The experience was one we will not forget. Overall, students had a great day at the Shrine and are grateful for the opportunity.