New monument honouring Pakistan’s involvement in Gallipoli unveiled

On Saturday 20 January 2024, the Pakistan Australian Heritage Society unveiled a new monument to honour the soldiers of the Pakistan Army (as part of the British Indian Army) who sacrificed their lives in the Gallipoli campaign. 

The solemn inauguration ceremony saw the Pakistan Australia War Memorial Monument unveiled by His Excellency Mr Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, High Commissioner for Pakistan in Roma Street Parklands.

The memorial monument, commissioned by the Pakistan Australian Heritage Society, pays tribute to the soldiers of the Pakistan Army who served in the Gallipoli campaign alongside Australia and New Zealand in 1915. It is the first memorial in the city to recognise service personnel solely from Pakistan who served in Gallipoli.

Among those in attendance was the Naval Association, Pakistani community leaders, RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM, Senator Paul Scarr, Stirling Hinchliffe MP, James Martin MP, John-Paul Langbroek MP, Elizabeth Watson-Brown MP and Cr Angela Owens.

Pakistan Australian Heritage Society President Dr Ishtiaq Rashid said it was a significant moment for the Pakistan community and paid homage to the shared military history connection between Australia and Pakistan.

“This monument not only commemorates a significant period of Australia and Pakistan's military history, but also represents the common heritage that binds our two countries together,” Dr Rashid said.

Pakistan Australian Heritage Society Secretary Dr Shabbir Ahmad said the memorial was a result of community funding and a central focus for the Society since its inception in 2020 to help convey the shared legacy between the two nations.

“This monument serves as a symbol of gratitude and remembrance for the courage and dedication exhibited by the soldiers of the Pakistan Army. We also wanted to introduce the Pakistani culture in a way that resonates with the broader community,” Dr Ahmad said.

“This unveiling marks a significant moment for our community, and we hope its history will carry on for generations to come.”

RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM said the memorial was a meaningful and important addition to the Parkland’s Memorial Corner in recognition of the Pakistan Army’s service during World War I.

“The memorial monument will become a meaningful symbol in the community, emphasising the importance of commemorating those who served from all backgrounds and nations,” MAJGEN Day said.

“The Gallipoli campaign was significant for Australia, and it's important that we continue to recognise the service and sacrifice of all those who served alongside the ANZACs.”

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