Thursday, 31 October 2024

 Natalie SULEYMAN (St Albans – Minister for Veterans, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Youth) (10:03): Happy 101st anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye. Each year on 29 October the Turkish community globally reflect and celebrate the founder of the Republic of Türkiye Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his principles of reform, progress and unity. Victoria is home to the largest Turkish community in Australia, and they have contributed in all aspects of society. The strong bond between Australia and Türkiye began on the battlefields of Gallipoli. As Mustafa Kemal Atatürk said to the mothers of Australia at the time:

There is no difference between the Johnnies and the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side in this country of ours. You, the mothers, who sent their sons from faraway countries, wipe away your tears. Your sons are now lying in our bosom and are in peace. After having lost their lives on this land, they have become our sons as well.

This legacy of respect and our special bond continues to this day. Thank you to Victoria’s vibrant Turkish community. Know that you will always have a place in Victoria and in particular in the tapestry of multicultural Victoria. Cumhuriyet Bayraminiz kutlu olsun.