Day 2 by Kelsey and Monique

There was a bright and early morning today, with Mr Croft planning on getting us to the memorial cemeteries quite early. We got on the 8am boat and crossed back into Europe. Our tour guide, Mr Izzet Yildirim, provided  an insight into all the battles that took place and lead us through the Gallipoli landscape, taking us through all the battle fields. There was lots of walking throughout the Gallipoli peninsula and along the way we met some friendly dogs and a Turkish news crew. Consequently, the dogs entertained the rest of the tour while Mr Croft, Kelsey, Brianna and John were interviewed.

We visited ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair and the Nek. At each of these we conducted our own ceremonies, paying our respects to the fallen Australian soldiers, and those from Collie. 

Along with the ceremonies, poems were read by some students. At North Beach we laid a wreath and further down the beach we visited John Simpson's (Simpson and his donkey) grave. We also visited a grave of a 14 year old boy in Lone Pine, where the reality of the war really set in. We were able to explore the hundred year old trenches and walk through no-mans land.

At one of the memorials we were surrounded by large groups of Turkish people who came over wanting hugs and selfies, which we were all happy to participate with. Although they were mainly interested in the blondes. 

Tonight was the first round of restaurant rules, with Mr Dent and Mr Maxwell up first. They picked a reasonable restaurant right on the waters edge, which specialised in sea food although not many fish dishes were ordered. After 1 table waited a long time and the occasional incorrect meal the final score for this restaurants was 23/50. Not a bad effort-they currently sit at the top of the leader board. 

Overall it was a busy day that has drained us emotionally & physically. Looking forward to a sleep in tomorrow!

Kelsey & Monique