Tallimba Public School, a rural primary school with just 26 students, was today presented with the national 2006 Anzac Day Schools' Award in the primary school category by Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Bruce Billson. Students, teachers, parents and local veterans travelled from central New South Wales to Canberra for a ceremony at Parliament House where the school was presented with $2000 and a commemorative plaque, as national primary school winner, and $1000 and plaque as NSW primary school winner.

Mr Billson said the Australian Government's Anzac Day Schools' Awards encouraged students to demonstrate their understanding of the significance of Anzac Day and to learn about and appreciate our war-time history. "Primary and secondary school winners are chosen in each state and territory, and from those winning entries the national winners were
selected. This year's competition attracted more than 100 entries from across the country," he said.

"Tallimba Public School's entry was very impressive and is an absolute credit to the school. It clearly involved a combined commitment from students, teachers and the local community." Tallimba Public School used the theme Saluting Our Veterans' Service to demonstrate the importance of community involvement in developing respect for and understanding of our veterans and our country's war-time heritage.

Four activities undertaken by the students: research of a local World War II prisoner of war; research about a conflict in which Australia has served; the school's Anzac service with visiting ADF personnel from Kapooka; and involvement in the Tallimba community Anzac Day service; was documented in a DVD and scrapbook. "Tallimba Public School, along with all the other schools who participated in this year's competition, are commended for their great efforts. Their
creativity and enthusiasm will keep the Anzac spirit alive for future generations," Mr Billson said