Who we are
Friends of Gallipoli Inc. is a non-political, non-religious, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to fostering mutual respect and friendship between the peoples of Australia and Türkiye, inspired by the camaraderie that emerged between opposing forces during the Gallipoli campaign. Our association is a beacon of unity, historical preservation, and educational outreach in Victoria, Australia.
Our activities are diverse and impactful. Each year, on 20 December, we commemorate the end of the Gallipoli campaign with solemn ceremonies at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne and the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney. We provide insightful lectures on the historical context of the Gallipoli campaign and present plaques featuring the words of friendship spoken by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk in 1934.
We also undertake projects of historical significance, such as restoring graves and cultivating and distributing lone pine saplings (pinus brutia). Our battlefield tours of Gallipoli are designed to offer a deep, personal connection to this significant historical event, particularly for those who have served. We are also actively pursuing sister club relationships between Rotary Clubs in Türkiye and New South Wales, fostering international community bonds.
Our organization maintains regular contact with consulates in Türkiye, New Zealand, the UK, France, Canada, and Ireland and is establishing ties with the New South Wales Consulate of India. We work closely with the RSL, particularly in Sydney, where we have proposed joint ventures for bespoke tours of Gallipoli.
One of our current projects is restoring the grave of Major General Sir Charles Snodgrass Ryan, a distinguished medical officer who served in both the Turkish Army and the Australian Imperial Force during the Gallipoli campaign. This project is a testament to our commitment to honouring those who contributed significantly to the shared history of Australia and Türkiye.
Our leadership includes Dr. John Basarin OAM, our Chairman based in Victoria, and a representative in New South Wales. We are honoured to have two Patrons: the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye, currently His Excellency Mr. Ufuk Gezer, and a prominent Australian, Dr.Kevin Fewster CBE AM, a respected historian and curator.
One of our current projects is restoring the grave of Major General Sir Charles Snodgrass Ryan, a distinguished medical officer who served in both the Turkish Army and the Australian Imperial Force during the Gallipoli campaign. This project is a testament to our commitment to honouring those who contributed significantly to the shared history of Australia and Türkiye.
Our leadership includes Dr. John Basarin OAM, our Chairman based in Victoria, and a representative in New South Wales. We are honoured to have two Patrons: the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye, currently His Excellency Mr. Ufuk Gezer, and a prominent Australian, Dr.Kevin Fewster CBE AM, a respected historian and curator.
As we stand on the brink of meaningful expansion, we seek an Australian Patron who can actively influence our activities and help us reach our full potential. We believe our cause is noble and worthy of support, and we welcome discussions with esteemed individuals who share our vision of fostering friendship and understanding through the legacy of Gallipoli.
Join us in our mission to honour the past and build a bridge of friendship for the future.