With the commemoration of the Centenary of World War I (WWI) being held across the globe this year, many special events and memorable initiatives have been launched to mark this date. 

One such initiative is a new online interactive program ‘Anzacs in our Classroom’ which was created and launched by Murrurundi   history teacher and artist Rodney Swansborough.

The program has been developed in the classroom at Murrurundi Public School and spread further afield since its launch. 

Federal Member for Hunter Joel Fitzgibbon was in town recently and was able to appreciate the project first hand with a visit to Murrurundi Public. 

Mr Fitzgibbon worked hard to achieve a $9910 grant for the Murrurundi and District Arts Council to deliver the program to the children of the town. 

A national initiative, the interactive website allows school children to track their rural heritage and any family links to the ANZACS.

It also allows students to  ‘Adopt an Anzac’ and undertake a project by researching that Anzac’s military service records, ‘Adopt a School’ by way of sponsorship or post a tribute to a relative who served in WWI. 

Mr Fitzgibbon congratulated Mr Swansborough and all involved in ensuring the contribution of the Australian Defence Force members is recognised and remembered. 

He said the website is a great way to raise awareness within the younger generations and another fantastic way of perpetuating the memory of ANZAC.

“The Centenary of ANZAC will be one of the most significant national periods of commemoration in our nation’s history.”

To view the website, go to www.honouringanzacs.net.au