Zach was chosen to be one of the 20 NSW students for the Premier’s Scholarship to go to the famous World War 1 battle sites and cemeteries in Belgium and France.

The NSW Minister of Education and Training, Verity Firth, announced that Zachary was one of the two selected students from Riverina that will spend 2 weeks visiting these important historical sites.

On the day of that Zach learnt of his auspicious selection, he was jubilant and had a smile that was etched across his face. Zach’s parents swelled with pride when they learnt of his achievement.

After having gone through the arduous and sometimes nerve-wracking process of composing an essay outlining his interest in Australia’s military commitments and successfully completing the essay, Zach was asked to deliver a six minute presentation on the impact of conflicts on Australian society to a five member panel.

Zach overcame his initial nervousness to speak eloquently and confidently to the panel. His presentation was further enhanced by the electronic presentation that accompanied his speech.

The Principal of Murrumburrah High School, Mr Charlie Cochrane, points to an achievement like Zach’s as evidence that the school is helping students to achieve their potential and offers them the opportunity to have life changing experiences.

Zach is excited to go overseas and travel around with the other students and is enthusiastic about returning to encourage others to make similar pilgrimages.