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The National History Challenge participants were celebrated at a grand presentation ceremony held at Parliament House in Canberra on Monday, 25 November. The awards were presented by The Hon. Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education, acknowledging the outstanding efforts and scholarly achievements of the students.

Congratulations to the BGS students honoured (and pictured left to right):

• Fred Barrett
• Thomas Scott
• Angus Ellerman
• Andrew Gracen
• Aiden Xiao
• Tom Kelly

Special Awards and Winning Projects

Angus Ellerman:

The National History Challenge Queensland winner for Years 11-12 and the Special Category, History of Sport, was awarded to Angus Ellerman. His insightful essay explored the relationship between the Greens and Blues of the Hippodrome, two of history’s most powerful sporting institutions, and the Byzantine Imperial government under Justinian I during the Nika Riots (532 CE). The essay delves into the factors that led to this significant crisis and the conflicting powers involved in resolving it.

Fred Barrett:

The Special Category, Australia’s Wartime Experiences, sponsored by The Department of Veterans’ Affairs, was won by Fred Barrett. Fred’s compelling presentation on Australia’s response to the crisis of World War One utilised both primary and secondary sources to analyse how World War One became a pivotal crisis for Australia. The presentation, enhanced by visuals, examined the factors that drove enlistment and government decisions, marking Australia’s first significant international wartime experience.

Aiden Xiao, Andrew Gracen, and Tom Kelly:

The Special Category award, Democracy Matters, sponsored by The Museum of Australian Democracy, was awarded to a dynamic group presentation by Aiden Xiao, Andrew Gracen, and Tom Kelly. The students produced a thought-provoking documentary addressing the key inquiry question: To what extent did the Fitzgerald Inquiry play a significant role in reforming democratic and judicial principles during and in the immediate aftermath of the Joh Bjelke Petersen era (1968 – 1987)? The documentary investigated a controversial period in Queensland history, revealing how the Sunshine State became a haven for political corruption, abetted by the policing system meant to protect democratic and electoral institutions.

Thomas Scott:

The Special Category award for Using Primary Sources was won by Thomas Scott. His essay provided an in-depth discussion on the crisis following the 1901 decision to deport the Kanaka (Pacific Islander) labourers from Australia. The essay analysed the various perspectives regarding the crisis and how these viewpoints influenced the responses at the time.

We congratulate all the winners for their exceptional work and contributions to historical scholarship. Their dedication and creativity continue to inspire and set a high standard for future participants in the National History Challenge.