RSL Continuing to monitor Gallipoli Fires
MEDIA RELEASE
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) is continuing to monitor forest fires burning on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Türkiye.
The fires broke out earlier this week following high humidity and extreme temperatures in the region.
The historic Gallipoli Peninsula is a sacred site for Australia, New Zealand and Türkiye following the 1915 landing of Australian and New Zealand troops that gave rise to the ANZAC legend.
RSL Australia President Greg Melick said he understood that the site had been closed to protect the community and to facilitate fighting the fires.
Not unlike Australia, Türkiye grapples with forest fires during the summer months, especially in its western and southern regions. Two months ago, authorities announced that record-breaking temperatures had resulted in a fivefold increase in forest fires compared to last year.
Greg Melick said that while news out of the region was still limited and it was not confirmed if Australian war graves and memorials were damaged, the RSL would continue to seek information and liaise with Australian and Türkiye authorities to gain continuous updates.
“We are confident that the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, local authorities and firefighters will do all they can to protect and rehabilitate the sacred sites and monuments, but we understand that the situation is serious and remain concerned,” he said.
