In 2021, Mr Files, Fletcher, Anja and Stephen were lucky enough to be invited to work with Megan Spencer from the Virtual War Memorial Australia on a digital project called 'The Sudden Storm: The Impact of the Bangka Island Massacre'. The students were selected for the project based on their extensive work and achievement on former student and World War II hero, Elaine Balfour-Ogilvy in their Local History HASS assessment task.

For the project, the students and Mr Files were interviewed about Elaine Balfour Ogilvy, her life achievements and what they still mean to the school and our community today.

For the project, students interviewed many people from across South Australia about the nurses tragically involved in the Bangka Island Massacre on February 16, 1942.

Renmark High School remains immensely proud of Elaine Balfour Ogilvy and the sacrifices she made for her community and her country. We are also extremely proud of Fletcher, Anja and Stephen and the contributions they made to this project and for their connection to our history and our community.

Listen to the podcast via the link: Virtual War Memorial Australia

It is a moving and very well made six part tribute. To listen to the section that involves Fletcher, Anja, Stephen and Mr Files, listen to Part 4 from the 10 minute mark until the end. Thank you to Megan Spencer and the Virtual War Memorial Australia for this rewarding and unique learning experience.

Ben Files

Leader of Wellbeing, Attendance and Engagement
History Teacher