Rachel Simmonds with her history challenge medal.
Camera IconRachel Simmonds with her history challenge medal. Credit: Supplied/Martin Kennealey        www.communitypix.com.au d446359

Essay makes meaning of Menzies for National History Challenge

Lauren PedenJoondalup Times

The Ocean Reef resident was named a State Year Level Winner for her essay.

“My category mainly involved in depth research of the leadership and legacy of Sir Robert Menzies,” Rachel said.

“I chose the category as I was extremely intrigued as to why Menzies was the longest-serving Australian Prime Minister.

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“I didn’t know much about him as a leader and thought it would be a great idea to broaden my knowledge of Australia and its history of leaders.

“I was not expecting to win the award in a million years.”

She said preparing for the history challenge had proved a difficult and lengthy process and she had to edit her essay several times.

“Information was not too hard to find on Menzies though, considering he was an Australian icon,” she said.

She said it was “very exciting” to have won as she had a strong interest in history and writing.

“Along with the award came a great sense of achievement,” she said.