Thousands of young Australians attended the 100th anniversary commemorations at Gallipoli on Saturday but 50 years ago it was a different story. Leura resident John King knows - he was there.
The 69-year-old was a young Aussie travelling through Europe in 1965 when he decided to make a detour to Turkey to be at Gallipoli for 50th anniversary events.
Intense media focus on the 100th anniversary prompted the former GPO worker to look through his old journal and photographs. Still in good condition, they shed light on a much smaller event than the one held this Anzac Day - and unlike today, one where older dignitaries vastly outnumbered young Australians.
"There were only three Australian backpackers present that I recall, two girls who had come up from Israel and myself. [There were] perhaps 80 people all told," he said.
Local soldiers had erected a temporary wharf from the shore where the Australian Gallipoli veterans walked to attend ceremonies, said Mr King.
"I managed to have a chat with several, about what I have no idea, but I know it was hard keeping emotions in check," he said.
Hearing about their departure plans the following day, Mr King made a quick dash to the Gallipoli dock in the hope of meeting the veterans one last time.
"The band, which was already assembled, started playing Waltzing Matilda. I had been joined by the two Australian girls and we applauded the diggers as they ascended the gangway. Many came over and shook hands and said good-bye. One, who owned a hardware shop in Balmain, gave me his name and an invitation to visit him on my return. I never did. I wish I had," he said.
Mr King turns 70 next month but his Gallipoli experience half a century ago still looms large in his memory.
"Thinking back on it, I was glad I shared the experience with them. I felt I had shared something worthwhile," he said.
