“INSPIRING Australians: The First Fifty Years of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust” is a new book by Penelope Hanley that tells the story of some of the 4,000 Churchill Fellows who have been awarded Fellowships over the 50 year history of the Churchill Trust.

Launched last night by ABC Radio commentator Alex Sloan at the National Library of Australia, it coincides with the 141st Anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill’s birth.

Over 100 people, previous fellows and aspiring fellows from across the ACT and the world, gathered at the Library to hear Dr Hanley share her experience of writing about resourceful people who put their ideas into action.

Just four weeks after the death of the wartime leader a “Churchill Memorial Sunday” doorknocking appeal was held across the country, to raise fund for Fellowships named in Sir Winston’s honour.

Today, she explained, the living legacy of that appeal, and of Sir Winston, are the Churchill Fellows, people who travel the world to conduct valuable research for the betterment of Australia

“A Churchill Fellowship is the research and travel opportunity of a lifetime, and serves to improve both an individual and their community,” said Trust CEO, Paul Tys, adding, “This book catalogues some of these extraordinary people, to raise Australia’s awareness of the vast opportunities Churchill Fellowships offer and continue to provide to our country.”

“Inspiring Australians: The First Fifty Years of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust”, is available for purchase from the Trust’s online store at churchilltrust.com.au