General Admission $30
Concessions & Members of the Stanthorpe Art Gallery Society $20
Free for children aged 15 and under
Adults Season Pass $102; Members/Concession Season Pass $72 (for all 4 Southern Cross Soloists Stanthorpe concerts in 2025: April 6, June 22, September 7, November 16)
Johnnies (ANZACs) and Mehmets (Ottoman) symbolise the respect between two nations who raised arms against each other at the historical Gallipoli Campaign. The relationship between Türkiye and Australia has been forged in the furnace of affliction, and now we celebrate, through music, what is an enduring connection. Reconciliation, sacrifice and peace are the perfect words to describe our mutual story.
Join us as we delve into a thrilling programme, from the oriental soundscape of “1001 Nights in a Harem” by Fazil Say, through to traditional Turkish folk songs, and original works for violin and percussion by Australian composers Matthew Hindson and Gerard Brophy. Featuring violinist Margaret Blades (SXS, WASO, ASO), percussionist Dave Kemp (QSO, Camerata, Topology) and pianist Roger Cui (Queensland Ballet), this performance promises to be a unique musical celebration of friendship born from war, 110 years ago.
BACKGROUND
The terms “Johnnies” and “Mehmets” were used during the Gallipoli Campaign as symbolic representations of the soldiers on opposing sides. These terms have since become emblematic of mutual respect between the adversaries—Australia/New Zealand and Turkey.
“Johnnies”
“Johnnies” referred to the Allied soldiers, particularly the Australian and New Zealand forces (ANZACs). The term likely stemmed from British slang, where “Johnny” was a generic term for a soldier. In the context of Gallipoli, it came to symbolize the courage, sacrifice, and humanity of the ANZACs and their fellow Allied soldiers.
“Mehmets”
“Mehmets” referred to the Ottoman soldiers, derived from the common Turkish male name “Mehmet,” which is a variant of “Muhammad.” The name was widely associated with the average Turkish infantryman, much like “Tommy” for British soldiers. It represents the bravery and resilience of the Ottoman forces defending their homeland during the campaign.
Atatürk’s Famous Quote
The most well-known reference to “Johnnies” and “Mehmets” comes from a speech attributed to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in 1934. This message is inscribed at the Anzac Memorial at Gallipoli and has become a cornerstone of the reconciliation between Turkey and the former Allied nations. He said:
“Those heroes that shed their blood and lost their lives… You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country. Therefore, rest in peace. There is no difference between the Johnnies and the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side here in this country of ours… You, the mothers, who sent their sons from far away 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.”
Symbolism Today
This statement symbolizes:
Reconciliation: It highlights the shared humanity of soldiers on both sides of the conflict.
Respect for Sacrifice: It recognizes the valor and suffering of both “Johnnies” and “Mehmets” equally.
Legacy of Peace: It underscores the transition from animosity to friendship between nations that were once enemies.
The terms “Johnnies and Mehmets” have come to symbolize the shared history and mutual respect between Australia, New Zealand, and Turkey, reflecting the enduring legacy of Gallipoli in fostering understanding and peace.
ARTISTS
Margaret Blades- violin
Dave Kemp- Percussion
Roger Cui -Piano
PROGRAMME
Azize -Trad.
Fazil Say-1001 Nights in a Harem
Matthew Hindson -Repeti-ti-tion
Gerard Brophy- Room of the Saints
Sehnaz longa Trad.
Mozart- Rondo Alla Turca