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Gallipoli Campaign 110th Anniversary

Published on: May 2025

Record: HANSARD-1323879322-152035

Gallipoli Campaign 110th Anniversary

North Shore Electorate Anzac Day Commemorations

Ms FELICITY WILSON (North Shore) (18:14:04):

This year, 2025, marks the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign. As we all know, it is one of the most defining moments in Australia's history. On 25 April 1915, when the Anzacs landed on the shores of Gallipoli, they forged a legacy of courage, sacrifice and mateship that continues to shape our national identity. Although the campaign itself did not achieve its military objectives, the bravery and determination of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers left an indelible mark on all of us. On Anzac Day this year—and every year—we paused to honour those who served, those who died and those who returned home forever changed. We remember not only the Anzacs of Gallipoli but all Australians who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping and peacemaking missions across the many generations.

Once again, this Anzac Day I was able to join my own local community. I joined more than 4,000 locals and 12 schools at the North Sydney dawn service at the North Sydney War Memorial, hosted by the North Sydney RSL Sub‑Branch of which I am very proud to be a patron. It was deeply moving to see so many from our community standing in silent tribute as the sun rose over the harbour and the cenotaph. Every year I have the privilege of being asked by the sub-branch to contribute to the service. This year, noting that I had recently been appointed shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, it asked me to deliver the Acknowledgement of Country, which is even more meaningful when we think about the longstanding contribution that our First Nations people have made in conflicts and peacekeeping missions throughout our history, including before they were acknowledged as Australians.

I sincerely thank the North Sydney RSL Sub-Branch president, Alex Wilson; honorary secretary, Chris Greatrex; treasurer, Andrew Goodsall, and my fellow patrons. I thank Commander Lucy Frauenfelder, RAN, the commanding officer at HMAS Waterhen; and the HMAS Waterhen team, which served as the catafalque party, Captain Warren Bairstow, who gave a wonderful address; bugler Jordan O'Brien; and Captain Andrew Lipczynski. I also thank the Wenona School choir and their leader, Mr Cameron Harker, and the clan pipe band of Sydney for delivering the lament, and all others involved in organising the incredibly solemn and dignified service.

I particularly acknowledge the participation from the many students from across my community representing schools, including Anzac Park Public School, Neutral Bay Public School, Cammeraygal High School, Loreto Kirribilli, Monte Sant' Angelo Mercy College, Wenona School, North Sydney Boys High School, North Sydney Girls High School, Marist Catholic College North Sydney, Shore School and those from the 1st North Sydney Scout Group, as well as North Sydney Demonstration School. Our young people play such a vital role in preserving the spirit of Anzac and carrying it into the future. Their presence each year is incredibly humbling and hopeful for all of us.

Later in the day, at 11.00 a.m., I joined the Neutral Bay club for its annual service. It was a moving service, as always, and it was heartwarming to witness everybody gathered to pay their respects and experience that palpable sense of community togetherness. There were plenty of activities for kids and families to enjoy and it was memorable and meaningful, yet again. I acknowledge all those who played a part in the service from the emcee, Paul Maybury; bugler Ian Cox—an actual bugle performance, which was phenomenal; Charlie Cole, who not only works at the club but also studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, sang the national anthem for us; and general manager Peter Lewis.

Because of the timing, I obviously could not be at both dawn services. I was not able to attend the Mosman RSL dawn service, and I thank Jaimee Rogers for representing me and laying a wreath on my behalf. I commend the Mosman RSL Sub-Branch president, Alan Toner; vice presidents Steven Wilson and James Malcolm; secretary Geoffrey Rickards; and treasurer Steven Ryan. I also thank The Harbour Trust; guest speaker, retired colonel Gerald McCormack; HMAS Penguin's commanding officer, Commander Browning; Chaplain Hastie; Redlands Symphony Orchestra and Hugo Bair; Mosman Anzac Memorial Hall Trust; Mosman prep; Mosman SES and Frenchy's Cafe for making it all happen.

Each of these events reflects the deep respect and enduring gratitude our community holds for our veterans and service personnel. In my community we have many sites that were part of wars, from the Crimean War onwards to modern day conflicts, and two naval bases—Waterhen and Penguin—are still operational. I extend my heartfelt thanks to every RSL sub-branch, veteran, school, volunteer, musician and member of the public who made these services possible. Their time, care and dedication keeps the Anzac legacy alive for the next generation. Lest we forget the sacrifices of those who gave everything for our freedom so that we may live in peace and opportunity. Particularly to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice, lest we forget.