General News
25 April, 2026
IN FOOTSTEPS OF DIGGERS
ANZAC Week has set the scene for special remembrance in 2026 for two students.
By CHRIS EARL
ANZAC Week has set the scene for special remembrance in 2026 for two students.
Wedderburn College’s Jamie Beaman and Aidan Wingfield, both in Year 11, were named recipients of two Kokoda scholarships at the school’s Anzac commemoration service on Tuesday.
Local RSL sub-branch president Roger Paterson said: “Anzac Day brings together all aspects of service and remembrance throughout Australia’s history.
“These scholarships in a way set the scene for special remembrance for Jamie and Aidan as they learn about the sacrifice of Australian diggers along the Kokoda Track in World War Two,” he said.
“They will walk in the footsteps of ordinary Australians who stepped forward for the nation in time of war and learn much about our proud military history and themselves and their family connections to service.”
Jamie’s great-grandfather Norm was among an estimated 56,000 Australia soldiers part of the Kokoda campaign in 1942.
“The experience of walking Kokoda will help me get a better understanding of what he and his mates went through,” said Jamie who has been reading history books and watching documentaries ahead of leaving for the 10-day trek on June 28. “I like learning about our shared history.”
Jamie is training at Mt Korong in preparation for the experience with Aidan and other students from across Victoria, carrying a weighted backpack.
Aidan said he had applied for the local scholarship to challenge himself at Kokoda and honour a family tradition of service in the military.
His great-grandfather William Britton also saw service at Kokoda, a veteran of both World War One and World War Two. “Walking Kokoda was an opportunity too good pass up,” he said.
It is the second year Wedderburn Korong Vale RSL sub-branch has provided Kokoda scholarships for local students.
“The donations from businesses and organisations, from so many individuals to continue the scholarships into a second year has been extremely gratifying,” Mr Paterson said. “Gratifying because the community as a whole sees the value in giving young people this opportunity.
“The Kokoda experience is part of the package of remembrance and commemoration we have in Australia throughout every year.
“Anzac Day is the focus and does set the scene for other opportunities to learn about our military service in wars and conflicts around the world.”
Mr Paterson said Jamie and Aidan would be fine ambassadors for the school and community.
“On their return, we look forward to them sharing the experience with us at future commemorative events,” Mr Paterson said.
Read More: Loddon Shire, Wedderburn