Hansard debates

Ms SULEYMAN (St Albans) (09:53:58) — Recently I had the honour of travelling to Gallipoli to commemorate Anzac Day at Anzac Cove and Lone Pine and attending a number of ceremonies, along with Australian, Turkish, New Zealander, British and French visitors. Gallipoli has a special place in our hearts and in the history of our two nations. Our delegation was particularly moved by the way that Turkey had cared for our fallen troops and how those Gallipoli campaign battle sites have been preserved. It was moving to witness so many nations coming together to pay their respects at a place where such tragedy and heartache occurred more than 100 years ago. On Anzac Day I laid a wreath and placed some poppies on behalf of my local Sunshine RSL at Anzac Cove and Lone Pine.

Turkey displayed the very best aspects of the relationship between Turkey and Australia in the manner in which all of the ceremonies were conducted and organised with full respect and care. I would sincerely like to thank the Turkish government and especially the Governor of Çanakkale, Orhan Tavli, for their enormous support of our delegation. Their hospitality was exceptional, and we extend our gratitude for our moving visit to Turkey. Finally, I would also like to thank Baris Atayman, the secretary of the Australian Turkish Advocacy Alliance, for organising and facilitating this wonderful, moving Anzac delegation.