On Wednesday 30th of March, Affinity Vice President Ahmet Keskin attended the ANZAC photo exhibition launch at the Chifley Tower on behalf of Affinity Intercultural Foundation. Affinity was a co-sponsor of the event.
The photo exhibition was a collection of Mr Vedat Acikalin works, a freelance photographer. The exhibition was launched by the Turkish Consulate General of Sydney in front of an eager audience who joined the reception. Participants included some prominent members from the RSL, Arts, Turkish Business & Arts community alike.
Mr Acikalin said he had a keen interest in the relationship of the Australian and Turkish communities. His interest spanned across the history of these 2 countries, in particular the legendary stories that emanated from the Gallipoli campaign where the Diggers and the Mehmetcik displayed mateship in a period of hostility. These were evident in the photos as many decades later, a Digger and a Mehmetcik, now literally two brothers in arms, when once upon a time they were on opposing frontlines.
The Turkish Consulate General who launched the exhibition, highlighted the significance of the campaign and said that this period was very important in the modern Turkish history as just like ANZAC day is commemorated here in Australia on April 25, the Turks remember the campaign on April 23 every year. This campaign has forged the fate of two countries who have now developed an incredible bond that will hopefully continue well into the future. A relationship that is special and sacred at the same time.
Mr Manera, from the ANZAC Memorial, expressed his gratitude on attending tonight’s launch of the exhibition. He commented on the courageous spirit the ANZACs dis
played when they were asked to represent their country. A war that was not really theirs but yet asked to be a part of a broader campaign. He commended their bravery and their gentlemen like behaviour in a desolute, war ravaged area and acknowledged the heroic efforts of the Mehmetcik, who were desperately trying their best to save their homeland.
The attendees admired the photos and were awestruck at the magnanimity of the Turkish veterans as they embraced the Australian diggers. The photos also showed the difficult task the diggers had to endure against the vantage point of the defending Turks. All in all, the photos were a reminder that the compassion & forgiveness within all of us will prevail in the end.
The photo exhibition, which began on 28th March, will continue until the 29th of April at the Chifley Tower. It is open to the public.
