The Kemal Ataturk Memorial

This memorial is part of an agreement by the Australian and Turkish governments on commemorative gestures to acknowledge the 70th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing. Kemal Ataturk commanded the Turkish forces at Gallipoli and later became the founder and first president of modern Turkey. This memorial honours him, as well as the heroism and sacrifice of both the Anzac and Turkish troops who took part in the bitterly fought campaign.

Soil from Anzac Cove in Turkey was placed beneath the dedication plaque. Surrounding the memorial are pine trees (Pinus halepensis) grown from seed collected from the landmark ‘lone pine’ at Gallipoli. The crescent-shaped wall was inspired by the symbol of the crescent and five-pointed star on the Turkish flag. Located on the wall is a bronze likeness of Ataturk, a gift from the Turkish Government.

Click here to learn more about Anzac Parade and its memorials.