THIS year’s Anzac commemorations see the inclusion of a special event.
The Centenary of Anzac Reception Dinner embraces the Turkish comrades’ cuisine while giving an opportunity for the Australian, New Zealand and Turkish communities in Mandurah to get together.
“Gallipoli gave birth to three nations,” Turkish Restaurant Mandurah owner Veyis Haydardedeoglu said.
“Out of the ashes of the Ottoman Empire … came the Turkish Republic and from the British forces came the Australians and the Kiwis.”
The April 18 event at the Turkish restaurant will see 70 people, including parliamentarians, councillors and members of the Mandurah, Pinjarra and Dawesville branches of the RSL, enjoy several courses of Turkish cuisine. Seats are still available.
The Mandurah RSL’s Anzac flame, which is one of only 20 in Australia, will also be lit on the night.
Mr Haydardedeoglu said the idea of holding an event which recognises Turkey’s involvement in the Gallipoli campaign, was one that came with him from the eastern states.
He was a member of the Turkish sub-branch of the RSL and often would take part in ceremonies there.
When he moved to Mandurah he approached the Mandurah RSL with the idea of hosting a dinner for the centenary.
“Having lived in Australia for more than 40 years I feel a part of this land and part of me still is Turkish,” Mr Haydardedeoglu said. “Having lost two uncles in the Gallipoli campaign it has sentimental value to me to be involved in this event as a Turk and commemorate the event for Anzacs.”
This is just one of many Anzac events in the lead-up to the centenary.
There was a dedication to the Mandurah Anzac carob tree at the end of last month, as well as a combined schools commemoration on April 23, at the war memorial to plant seven lone pines and a carob tree.
“We only get to do this every 100 years and not too many of us have been untouched by the Anzac spirit,” Dave Mabbs, Mandurah RSL president, said.
For more information call the Mandurah RSL on 9581 4781.