OXLEY MP Michael Kemp joined thousands of others at Anzac Cove in Turkey to mark the solemn anniversary of Anzac Day.
Mr Kemp described attending the 110th Anniversary Anzac Day Dawn Service at Gallipoli as a “bucket list experience” and one of the greatest honours of his life.
“Standing at Gallipoli as the sun rose over the water is something I will never forget,” Mr Kemp said.
“To pay my respects there and to walk the ground where so many young Australians fought and fell.
“It’s a bucket list experience for me.
“To be able to do it while representing the people of Oxley was a true honour and privilege.”
While in Turkey, Mr Kemp joined NSW Parliamentary colleagues in visiting the French and British memorials at Gallipoli, paying tribute to the soldiers of all nations who endured the hardships of the campaign.
He also met with Turkish Members of Parliament to reflect on the shared history between Australia and Turkey and took part in a wreath laying ceremony at Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey and a revered figure in Australia’s remembrance of Gallipoli.
“The respect shown by the Turks during this war is part of the legend,” Mr Kemp said.
“The tour of the memorials in Gallipoli was an emotional experience for me.
“It gives you time to reflect on the immense sacrifices every soldier gave, from all sides.”
Mr Kemp also made a brief stop in Singapore, where he visited the Kranji War Cemetery, a resting place for thousands of Allied servicemen who died in Southeast Asia during World War II.
“It was a humbling experience to walk among the graves of so many who gave their lives far from home,” he said.
Mr Kemp said the experience has deepened his connection and appreciation for the legacy of the ANZACs and the enduring importance of remembrance.
“Our rights, our way of life, and our democracy were paid for dearly by the sacrifices of our ANZACs,” he said.
“I am incredibly grateful to have stood on that historic and sacred ground, representing the people of Oxley and paying tribute to those who gave so much.”
Mr Kemp took part in both the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove and the Lone Pine Service, alongside thousands of Australians, New Zealanders, and international visitors.
