Mandurah looking back on spirit of Anzac through photos

A Camera on Gallipoli will showcase the photographs of Sir Charles Ryan, an Australian surgeon and army officer who captured images of mateship, stoicism and the dogged persistence that became the spirit of Anzac. 

The free exhibition will run from April 6 to 29, with the official opening event taking place this Friday at 11am. 

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MPAC art gallery and marketing coordinator Helena Satonick said she expected a number of veterans to attend the event the opening exhibition. 

For Mr Ryan, serving as a senior medical officer in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) was the culmination of a long, exciting, and colourful life.

A leading surgeon and senior officer, Mr Ryan had access to the highest levels of command on Anzac while retaining an interest in the ordinary soldier and held genuine regard for the enemy. 

Mr Ryan had interest in photography and took photos in Egypt and on Anzac, including the famous image from the May truce and the burial of the dead. 

Gallery curator Gary Aitken said the exhibition coincided with the final few months of the ANZAC Centenary.

“It’s a way to look back at the past and reflect with our local veterans on those brutal war years, and honour those who fell,” he said. 

“I am pleased to be able to bring this exhibition to Mandurah and bring the focus to our military community. 

“By putting the opening event on a Friday morning, we are able to bring the local RSL members and share this with them.”

This display has been developed by the Australian War Memorial with the support of the Australian Government’s Commemorations Program.

Mandurah Performing Arts Centre will also be bringing The Lighthouse Girl to the Boardwalk Theatre on the April 24. 

As a way to honour our veterans, there will be an allocation of free tickets for ex service-men and women. 

Contact the MPAC box office for details on 9550 3900 or visit the website www.manpac.com.au.