ANZAC 2015

2015 will be the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli. At our first meeting for 2010 Bruce Chadderton put forward a proposal that the APS consider putting on an Exhibition in April 2015 to mark this event. The APS would be the host for the Exhibition, on behalf of the New Zealand Philatelic Federation. The Exhibition would be a limited International Exhibition.

Bruce outlined the events at Gallipoli in 1915, noting how the entry of Bulgaria into the War on the side of the Turks changed the military and strategic situation in the Dardanelles. Troops were involved in the Gallipoli campaign from a number of countries - Britain, France, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Canada and India. Egypt and Greece both provided locational support, and there was a Jewish contingent as well as troops from what is now the United Arab Emirates.

An Exhibition in 2015 would likely include 1500 to 3000 frames, and the involvement of New Zealand Post and other postal administrations. Accommodation for an Exhibition needs to be found, that can provide ample space for the frames and the dealers, and rooms for judges and invited speakers. A secure site would be needed. Easy access and good parking for visitors are further requirements. The Exhibition would be spread over 5 days.

Bruce is looking at possible sites, including the Waitakere Trust Stadium, Sky City and the Aotea Centre. There is also need for an interesting venue for the Palmares event - this is a gala dinner and awards evening. The Auckland War Memorial Museum is a possible (and appropriate) venue for this.

Preliminary costings are being done at the moment, as a proper budget needs to be drawn up before any commitments can be made. An enthusiastic and hard-working committee will be needed. Bruce noted that a Trust would be set up, should the event go ahead, so that the finances of the APS would not be under any threat.

For further developments, watch this space!