Encounter Lutheran College Year 10 student, Thomas Sullivan, has been named one of fewer than 20 students across South Australia selected for the prestigious 2025 Premier’s Anzac Spirit School Prize.

The Premier’s Anzac Spirit School Prize recognises students who demonstrate a deep understanding of the Anzac Spirit - qualities such as courage, endurance, mateship, and selflessness through original historical research and personal reflection.

As part of his submission, Thomas researched the life of Albert Henry “Bert” Boxall, a young man born in Port Elliot in 1885 who later served as a signaller in the 28th Battalion of the Australian Imperial Force.

After enduring harsh conditions, illness, and frostbite on the Western Front, Bert was tragically killed in France in June 1918 when an enemy aircraft dropped bombs on his battalion. He was 33 years old.

Thomas said he was drawn to Bert’s story because of its local connection and the way it reflected the resilience and character of everyday Australians who served.

“Bert’s story really stood out to me because he wasn’t famous - he was an ordinary man from my local area who showed incredible perseverance and courage,” Thomas said. “His life represents the spirit of the ANZACs - ordinary people who did extraordinary things.”

Thomas conducted his research using archival war records, local RSL resources, and materials from both Port Elliot and Rainbow, Victoria, where Bert once lived. His application also included a personal reflection linking Bert’s life to his own family and community connections.

“Thomas’s achievement is especially significant as it’s the first time our College has entered the Premier’s Anzac Spirit School Prize — and the first time we’ve had a student selected,” said Encounter Lutheran College teacher Mr Timothy Wormald, who provided guidance throughout the process. “His work was largely self-directed and demonstrated genuine historical inquiry and empathy.”

As part of his prize, Thomas will join a fully funded study tour to France in 2026, visiting significant World War I sites and participating in Anzac commemorations alongside other awardees.

Thomas will officially receive his certificate and medallion from the Minister for Education, Training and Skills at a ceremony at the Drill Hall, Torrens Parade Ground on Thursday 20 November.

“We’re incredibly proud of Thomas and his commitment to honouring the memory of local servicemen like Bert Boxall,” said Encounter Lutheran College Principal Kelvin Grivell. “This recognition highlights not only Thomas’s dedication but also the strength of curiosity, empathy, and community connection that we seek to nurture in our students.”