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Pre-Tour Briefing: 2 - 4 March 2023
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The pre-tour briefing at the School of Isolated and Distance Education in Leederville began with a Presentation Ceremony on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at 1:30 pm. At the ceremony, we were acknowledged for our selection and achievement and received a signed certificate from the Premier of Western Australia and the Minister for Education and Training.After the ceremony, the students and their families arrived at the SIDE accommodation village in Leederville at 4:00 pm, where parents left while students settled in and began their briefing. A casual dinner was provided for the students and families a bit later, followed by a presentation of uniforms and books, after which parents departed. The group seemed to be a formidable mix of introverted and outgoing students and promised to be a close-nit team.
On the second day, we had the privilege of visiting the Campbell Barracks in Swanborne along with Vietnam veteran Greg Mawkes. We spent our day at the SASR Historical Foundation and Museum, where we learned about the history of the Special Air Service Regiment and its role in protecting Western Australians.
One of the most memorable parts of the day was our visit to the Remembrance Garden. The peacefulness of the garden and the beautiful memorials honouring fallen soldiers brought a sense of solemn reflection to our visit. We took a moment to pay our respects and honour the sacrifices made by these brave men and women.
Another highlight of the visit was the presentation on war dog training. We were amazed at the skill and intelligence of these highly trained animals, and their importance in military operations. It was a humbling reminder of the many different individuals and elements that come together to make up the SASR.
As we toured the museum, it became clear just how crucial the SASR is to the safety of Western Australians. Their dedication and bravery in protecting our country is truly awe-inspiring. We felt a deep sense of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.
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After our time at the museum, we visited the Leighton Battery in Mosman Park. The Battery was originally built during World War II to defend the coastline around Fremantle from enemy attack. It was incredible to see the massive guns up close and to learn about their history. The trip down the cool tunnel on this hot day developed in me a new understanding on how closely Perth felt threatened during World War 2. It was an unforgettable day filled with history, reflection, and gratitude. We left with a renewed appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who serve in the SASR and a deeper understanding of their important role in protecting our country.
On the third and final day, we started with a wreath-laying ceremony at the State War Memorial in Kings Park, followed by a monument walk. We then transferred to ANZAC Cottage in Mt. Hawthorn, where we had lunch. We learnt about the history of this small but important buidling. Anne Chapple talked about her family’s occupancy of the cottage, while Peter Ramsay entertained us with a variety of stories about the war in Vietnam and the New Zealand army. He was very knowledgable and passionate about the ANZAC legacy and instilled in us the enthusiasm to embrace all that we will encounter during the tour.
The day ended with a bus transfer back to Leederville SIDE, where parents arrived to collect their children. I am most excited to go on tour with these outstanding young people.
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After our time at the museum, we visited the Leighton Battery in Mosman Park. The Battery was originally built during World War II to defend the coastline around Fremantle from enemy attack. It was incredible to see the massive guns up close and to learn about their history. The trip down the cool tunnel on this hot day developed in me a new understanding on how closely Perth felt threatened during World War 2. It was an unforgettable day filled with history, reflection, and gratitude. We left with a renewed appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who serve in the SASR and a deeper understanding of their important role in protecting our country.
On the third and final day, we started with a wreath-laying ceremony at the State War Memorial in Kings Park, followed by a monument walk. We then transferred to ANZAC Cottage in Mt. Hawthorn, where we had lunch. We learnt about the history of this small but important buidling. Anne Chapple talked about her family’s occupancy of the cottage, while Peter Ramsay entertained us with a variety of stories about the war in Vietnam and the New Zealand army. He was very knowledgable and passionate about the ANZAC legacy and instilled in us the enthusiasm to embrace all that we will encounter during the tour.
The day ended with a bus transfer back to Leederville SIDE, where parents arrived to collect their children. I am most excited to go on tour with these outstanding young people.
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