Local history awards up for grabs

School is back for term four and Orange history students have a chance to win cash prizes just in time for Christmas.

Orange Regional Museum is calling on students from Orange to submit entries into two award categories this year, one for high school students and one for primary school students.

There’s $100 up for grabs as part of the annual Sir Neville Howse VC School Award.

The prize is awarded to a high school student from Orange who shows an exceptional understanding and appreciation of heritage.

Orange Mayor Reg Kidd said entries for the award may come in almost any format from short film, to a diorama, or a model, a debate, essay or report.

“It’s incredibly important our students know and appreciate our heritage,” Cr Kidd said.

“These awards are a way of recognising students who show an exceptional interest and understanding of the events that have shaped our nation, and our city.”

Secondly, students could win $150 for themselves and $250 for their school as part of the Isobel and Stuart Douglas History Award.

The prize for this annual award was bequeathed to Orange City Council by Jean Margaret Stuart Chambers.

Mrs Chambers wanted the purpose of the award to “foster clear speech, expression of thought and ideas encouraging original research in the study of local history relating to Orange”.

The Isobel and Stuart Douglas History Award is open to students attending NSW government and Catholic primary schools within the Orange local government area.

“This particular award focuses on local history and encourages students to talk with older Orange residents about their experiences in our region,” Cr Kidd.

“Young students then may develop an appreciation for what life was like growing up in Orange for people in their parents, or grandparents’ generation.”

For details and entry forms please go to www.orangemuseum.com.au/learn/awards

The closing date for these awards is November 29.