Awardee reflection - Karsha Ireland

April 16th, 2025 – Day 4

Good morning! Today we woke up at 6:30 and got ready for the day. Since we were checking out of our hotel this morning, we had to pack up all our gear (ugh).

We were heading to Long Tan today – the part of the trip I was most excited for. We drove for around two and a half hours from Ho Chi Minh City to Ba Ria (where everyone made sure to stock up on snacks). In Ba Ria, we met our tour guide Tony – one of the loveliest people I’ve ever met.

Tony began our tour by taking us to the Nui Dat 1ATF Base. Although the area is now almost completely covered with rubber trees, I could still feel the spirit of the ANZACs around me. As we travelled through the forest, we passed the exact grounds where all the concerts were held for the ANZACs. I sat there, truly speechless, thinking: “No way – we’re physically looking at the same grounds where so many famous photos were taken, and concerts were held.” Little did I know, I was going to witness many more incredible sights today.

During the drive to Long Tan, you could feel the anxiety on the bus – everyone was thinking the same thing: “How did the ANZACs have so much perseverance in an environment like this?” When we arrived, we looked out into the distance, staring at the thousands of rubber trees ahead of us. While listening to the song ‘I Was Only 19’, none of us could look away. I could only imagine the horror the ANZACs endured. Feeling emotional, I began to reflect on how the soldiers must’ve felt – fearful, yet courageous. I felt a deep connection to the song because the soldier I had researched, who served in Vietnam, was also nineteen. That emotional connection helped me truly understand the significance of the Vietnam War.

Before we laid down our flowers, Dennis encouraged us to say our soldiers’ names aloud. He said, “Some of these soldiers’ stories have been forgotten and may never have been visited by their loved ones. Although there is a memorial for them, they are rarely truly recognised. When we say their names out loud, their spirits may hear us.” Taking time to reflect after our ceremony was emotional for everyone. We felt closer to the soldiers – both physically and spiritually.

We then slowly made our way back to the bus, none of us wanting to leave such a significant place in Australian history. On the way to lunch, Tony shared the rich history of Vung Tau with us. After a delicious meal, we enjoyed a small tour of the city before heading to our hotel for a rest. That evening, Kat’s group reflected before dinner – and after visiting Long Tan, the soldiers’ stories meant so much more to us.

Dinner was at the biggest seafood restaurant in Vung Tau (I’m pretty sure almost everyone was getting sick of seafood by now), but to our surprise, it was absolutely scrumptious. I think it was the best meal of the trip so far. After eating, we were all ready to get into bed and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Although our time at Long Tan was short, it’s a memory I will cherish forever.

Goodnight – Karsha :)