The first encounter between Turks and Australians took place at Gallipoli on April 25, 1915, during World War I. Australians landed in Gallipoli to join the British troops, to secure a foothold for the Allied forces, who aimed to occupy İstanbul, the capital of the Ottoman Empire.
The Violent clashes that ensued within this Cove, culminated with enormous casualties and deaths. Regrettably 8,700 Australian soldiers were killed at Gallipoli, however a staggering 86,000 Ottoman Turkish troops were also killed. The Ottoman Turks suffered more casualties at Gallipoli than in any other campaign of the war.
April 25 is now recognized as a national day for Australians, which has come to be known as ANZAC Day. Australians and Turks remember this significant day and commemorate their shared history in an effort to increase historical, social, cultural understanding and awareness between both Countries. ATBC recognizes the importance of our shared history.
The Victorian State Government approached the ATBC last year, to recommend appropriate Turkish involvement in the forthcoming ANZAC Centenary commemorations.
Subsequently, two ATBC Board members, Burhan Falay and Unal Yildiz, formed the Australian Turkish Centenary Community Committee. This committee is currently organizing projects to celebrate Australian / Turkish Culture in 2015 and they are initiating projects to fund an Australian Turkish Friendship Memorial Sculpture.
The ATBC endeavors to forge pride, peace and strong links within the Australian and Turkish communities. We acknowledge and commemorate our shared history, for our present and future generations. It is with enormous pride, that we honour the sacrifice and courage of our brave, deceased soldiers.