Anzac Day in Gallipoli 2006

Link to Original: http://3degree.cci.ecu.edu.au/articles/view/89

Anzac Day in Gallipoli 2006
By Glenn Knight
31 March 2006

Anzac Day commemorations in Gallipoli this year will be a different affair to last year. Last year’s service was tarnished by reports of drunken and disorderly behaviour by some of the 17 000 attendees.

Anzac Day commemorations in Gallipoli this year will see a number of changes in response to events that occurred during last year’s 90th anniversary services.

Concerns were raised after record crowds attended the memorial sites at Gallipoli. Thousands of people came to pay tribute and reflect on the heroic and tragic legacy that is Gallipoli.

Yet the significance of the day was tarnished by reports of drunken behaviour and the large amount of rubbish left behind by visitors.

Also coming into question was the decision to play music videos to the large crowds as they waited overnight for the dawn service.

Federal Minster for Veterans Affairs Bruce Billson has announced a number of changes that are hoped will ensure the ongoing protection and preservation of the Gallipoli Peninsula.

“There is no greater symbol of Australia’s proud wartime history than Gallipoli and the Australian Government will continue to work closely with Turkey and New Zealand to commemorate this epic chapter of the Australian story,” he said.

This year a number of changes will be implemented. To avoid a repeat of the rubbish left behind, Conservation Volunteers Australia has undertaken to clean up the area after services have been completed. The Department of Veterans Affairs is also providing some assistance in regards to this matter.

Alcohol will also be banned from the event as well as improvements to food vending arrangements. There will also be a substantial increase in first aid and toilet facilities.

Large video screens will feature pre-recorded and live material that will include documentaries reflecting on the Anzac tradition. Royal Australian Air Force and Navy bands will also perform period music.

It is hoped that these changes will help in providing people with putting the event into the right historical context. “Many of those gathering are captivated by the legend of Anzac, without knowing a lot about the genesis of the legend,” said Mr Billson.

“It's important that the Gallipoli experience provides these people with historical context.”

The massive crowds have also prompted changes to the transport and access to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Engineers from Australia have been providing input into works programs that will cater for the large number of visitors to the area.

The site is also of great significance to the Turkish people. As Mr Billson points out.

“It is their sovereign land; defended at great cost in 1915. Some 87 000 Turks lost their lives, compared to the 8 700 Anzacs.”

Thousands of British, French, Indian and Pakistani soldiers also died at Gallipoli.

The Turkish government has also developed a transport plan that will allow for a closer drop-off point for visitors.

As Mr Billson pointed out, “The Australian Government, and I’m pleased to say I think I can speak for New Zealand as well, and the Turkish Government, are of one in strongly sharing our commitment for the ongoing protection and preservation of the Gallipoli Peninsula.”

The Australian Government has committed $16 million over four years to assist with efforts to preserve the legend of Gallipoli.

This includes the funding of a specialist archaeological and historical team conducting a review of the area. The aim of the review is to identify key sites of significance, such as trench locations, command posts, outposts and key battle areas.