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 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.
Our leadership includes Chairman The Hon. Kelvin Thomson, based in Victoria and Lt. Col [retd] Denis Moore FOGI’s representative in New South Wales and ACT.
We are honoured to have two Patrons: General [retd] David Hurley, former Governor General and the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye, His Excellency Mr. Ufuk Gezer.
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.