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Written by Les Fawkes
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Tuesday, 22 April 2008 |
The RSL ANZAC Awards Committee
has awarded the 2008 ANZAC Peace Prize to Scouts Australia. 2008 is
the Year of the Scout and marks the centenary of Scouting in
Australia. The award of the ANZAC Peace Prize recognises the part
that Scouting has played in the development of two million Australians
over the past 100 years, both as individuals and as citizens.
Today young men and women, boys and girls, continue to enjoy the benefits of belonging to the largest youth movement in the world, with more than 28 million members in 155 countries. International Scout Jamborees, whether they have been held in Australia or in other countries, have brought young people and their leaders together from all parts of the world, regardless of nationality, creed or religion. The friendships thus established have made a significant contribution to international goodwill and understanding, and to world peace.
Major General Bill Crews AO (Retd), RSL National President has also announced the ANZAC of the Year Awards which are made annually ‘to recognise the efforts and achievements of up to seven Australians who have given service to their fellow Australians and to the community in a positive, selfless and compassionate manner.’
The 2008 ANZAC of the Year awards have been made to:
Mr James Bourke MG of Victoria for his perseverance, dedication and leadership in the work of ‘Operation Aussies Home’ and his team’s endeavours to recover Australian soldiers Missing-in- Action in the Vietnam War.
- Mrs Carolyn McColl of New South Wales for her voluntary work on numerous committees and fund raising projects in the communities of Pambula/Merimbula on the South Coast of NSW.
- Mr Harry Toole of Victoria for his tireless work as a volunteer in the community of Clunes, Victoria.
- Mr Jonathon Welch of Victoria for his untiring, tenacious and inspirational work with disadvantaged and homeless men and women in establishing the ‘Choir of Hard Knocks’.
On behalf of the RSL National Executive and Members, Major General Crews has extended his congratulations to the Award recipients. In doing so, Major General Crews has added; ‘the award recipients exemplify the Spirit of ANZAC within the community through their dedication and commitment to the benefit of others.’
The Aim of the awards is to recognise any outstanding
effort by an Australian Citizen who has promoted the concept of
international understanding and who, in so doing, has made a
contribution to world peace.
The Award recognises the
efforts of ordinary people as distinct from national leaders who are
well served by major international prizes. Those recognised, are average
Australians who in some special and dedicated manner, have made a real
contribution to international peace and goodwill. The Award may also be granted to groups who collectively have achieved this aim.
In short, a uniquely Australian
award for Australians based on the ideals, dedication and spirit of
selflessness that shone through and above the horrors of war.
The Award itself is a silver
medallion some four inches in diameter, depicting the legendary
"Simpson" of Gallipoli and his donkey. Already a most rare and valuable
item in itself, the medallion has been specially struck in sterling
silver at the National Mint, is presented in a specially designed
presentation case and inscribed with the name of the recipient.
The medallion is accompanied by a certificate setting out the nature of the Prize and the citation on which the award was given.
In addition, the recipient will receive a miniature lapel badge for everyday wear.
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Range News 2005 - ON 
