Movement in the Camp
Sharp-eyed readers will notice that this edition has the same title as its immediate predecessor. But, dear readers, we assure you that this edition is the real Winter 2026 edition and can only apologise for the mis-titled Autumn 2026 edition. You should find plenty of interest in this edition, beginning with an overview of the Charles Upham, VC and Bar Centre Trust. Enjoy!
And speaking of Burnham Camp – and, as noted in the article on John A. Lee – the Regimental Association collection is housed in an old building inside the camp which used to be part of the Burnham Industrial School. The volunteers who have been working on digitising the collection have now been allocated premises in the former Community Centre outside the camp perimeter on the south side of the camp.
In time, the military history library – kindly donated by the late Alan Polaschek – will be moved to this new facility so that researchers can work in more comfortable surroundings. The collection proper will remain in its current location for the time being, although the long-term aim remains to move the collection to a new location which is more accessible to the public.
Upham Network Development - Bridging History and Community
The Upham Network is a groundbreaking initiative designed to bridge gaps among stakeholders in the field of military history preservation. Conceived by the Captain Charles Upham VC and Bar Centre Trust, the network aims to streamline collaboration, optimize resources, and enrich historical narratives. By integrating diverse perspectives, the Upham Network addresses challenges in collection management while fostering a shared sense of purpose among its supporters.
At the heart of the Upham Network are two interlinked digital platforms: the Upham Veterans Communication Network and the Upham Online Museum.
Rather than seeking to reinvent or duplicate the efforts of established organisations within the veterans’ sector, the communication network is designed to identify and address gaps that remain in the current landscape. Recognising the vital role of existing groups, our mission is to complement their work by connecting veterans, their families, and the broader community -ensuring that no need goes unmet.
Our commitment to contributing meaningfully is underscored by the support we have received through grant funding from a veterans’ welfare organisation. This backing not only affirms the value of our approach but also places a responsibility upon us to deliver resources and initiatives that make a real, positive difference. The platform, therefore, serves as an interactive hub where veterans can access essential services—from mental health and wellbeing programs to legal and advocacy support, to opportunities for genuine peer connection—while fostering collaboration, dialogue, and lasting support.
Complementing the communication network is the Upham Online Museum, a curated digital repository dedicated to preserving and showcasing the stories, artifacts, and achievements of New Zealand’s Citizen Soldiers. This interactive museum offers virtual exhibitions, digitized collections, and educational resources accessible to the public. Through immersive narratives and multimedia content, the Online Museum fosters a deeper appreciation for the nation’s military history and encourages active participation in its preservation.
The dual-site structure of the Upham Network is supported by an integrated management system, ensuring consistency in messaging, preservation standards, and user experience. This system allows users to transition effortlessly between community support and historical exploration, enabling cross-referencing of stories and facilitating collaboration among historians, veterans, and the public.
- The Upham Network embodies the guiding principles set forth in its introduction by weaving together community engagement, inclusive support, and the preservation of shared heritage.
- Its dual-platform structure ensures that both the immediate needs of veterans and the enduring significance of their stories are addressed in tandem.
- The communication network creates a welcoming, responsive environment that values every voice, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect among users.
- Meanwhile, the Online Museum’s commitment to authenticity and accessibility upholds the principle of honouring history with integrity, making the achievements and sacrifices of New Zealand’s Citizen Soldiers available to all.
In summary, the Upham Network establishes a vibrant ecosystem where the legacy of New Zealand’s Citizen Soldiers is both honoured and sustained, and where veterans and their families find enduring support and recognition. This initiative not only preserves the past but also strengthens the bond between service members and the wider New Zealand community, ensuring that their stories continue to inspire future generations.
Wayne Hutchinson
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