The Spirit of Anzac Centenary Experience, launched yesterday in Canberra, will set up in Albury-Wodonga in September before heading to 22 other cities.

A partnership between the federal government and the Australian War Memorial — with assistance from Telstra and the Commonwealth Bank — the $35 million exhibition will be the flagship community event of the national Anzac Centenary program.

Former deputy prime minister and ex-Farrer MP Tim Fischer has been named envoy for the exhibition, a role he has taken to with gusto.

“It’s terrific that the Border region will be first up in early September and entry to the multi-million-dollar exhibition will be free,” Mr Fischer said.

“It’s expected many high school students will trek through the exhibition and locals will also be engaged — for example, Jerilderie with information in relation to John Monash growing up in that town and Holbrook in relation to Commander Holbrook VC.

“I’m delighted to be envoy for this activity throughout Australia as Anzac 100 relates to every corner of Australia.”

The new display will make use of the Australian War Memorial’s extensive collection of World War I artefacts, allowing many Australians to see many of these military and interpretive materials for the first time.

The memorial has worked with creative agency Imagination to develop the immersive, chronological experience, including film and audio elements to fully engage visitors.

Farrer MP Sussan Ley welcomed news Border residents would be the first to see it.

“This exhibition digs a little deeper into the ANZAC spirit, allowing us to honour and understand our forebears’ enormous effort and sacrifice during the Great War,” she said.

“While it is a touring display, it’s also a community experience with a local organising committee ensuring as many people across the Border can take in this once-in-lifetime memorial.”