25/04/2026
Anzac Day 2026 – Lest We forget
October 2025: The Association “The Lemnos Friends of Anzac” is deeply honoured to have worked alongside a distinguished group of historians, academics, and researchers from around the world, all brought together by a shared commitment to understanding and preserving our common history.
Through this collaboration, two films were created and are now presented—with the support and under the auspices of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture—to audiences in Greece and abroad. We warmly invite you to watch them:
• Cultural Routes in Lemnos ((https://youtu.be/HyN8sr1ieNA?si=59x6THrdwkyT6AcY )
• The Visit of Historians and Academics from Around the World to Lemnos Island (https://youtu.be/w09BNuUH7Nk?si=p8CDsiPyIyW4Ggry)
For the people of Australia and New Zealand, Lemnos is not just a place on the map—it is part of the ANZAC story.
It was here, in 1915, that thousands of soldiers found shelter, care, and humanity during the Gallipoli Campaign. It was here that bonds were formed—quiet, human connections between the local people of Lemnos and the ANZAC soldiers—bonds that have endured through generations.
Our Association was founded on this very spirit. Building on the efforts of the Lemnian community in Australia since 1998, we have worked to ensure that Lemnos is recognised for the role it played in this shared history.
Since 2014, we have sought to bring this story to light through international conferences, cultural initiatives, and ongoing collaboration with the global academic community and Hellenic representatives worldwide.
What has emerged is more than historical recognition. It is a living bridge between peoples—a renewed connection between Lemnos and the ANZAC nations—grounded in memory, respect, and gratitude.
From the ancient legacy of Hephaestus to its place in modern history, Lemnos stands as a place where stories of resilience, care, and humanity come together.
Despite challenges and limited local support at times, this effort has been sustained with the valuable support of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, which has recognised the international importance of the “Anzac and Lemnos” initiative.
Today, on April 25, 2026—ANZAC Day—we offer these films as a tribute:
to those who served,
to those who suffered,
to those who never returned,
and to the people of Lemnos who stood beside them.
With deep respect and heartfelt gratitude,
we honour their memory.
For the Association
Stelios A. Mantzaris
President of the Board
[email protected]
Lemnos Island - Greece
www.friendsofanzac.com
