ISAAC Media Release - Anzac Day 23APR2025
Published on 23 April 2025
ISAAC MARKS 110th anniversary of Gallipoli
From the coastline to the coalfields, communities will gather to pause at 18 services across the Isaac region to mark 110 years since the Gallipoli landings.
Wearing war medals and ribbons with pride, veterans, families, and local RSL sub-branches will mark 25th April with dawn services, marches, and commemorative events.
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said when young ANZACs were sent ashore 1.6km north of their intended landing beach in the early hours of 25 April 1915, thousands were killed and wounded. This day changed the course of history for Australia.
“Their bravery and the grief of their families still echo in our communities today. Anzac Day is not just a date on the calendar – it is a deeply personal day for so many families whose stories are woven into Australia’s military history,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
“Stories like war hero Billy Sing of Clermont. Born in 1886, William “Billy” Sing helped his parents with their market garden and developed skills in competitive shooting and working with horses. When World War I broke out in 1914, 28-year-old Billy joined the 5th Light Horse Regiment and was sent to Gallipoli in 1915. Known for his deadly accuracy, he earned the nickname "The Assassin”.
Billy’s fame spread beyond Gallipoli, and his tally was reported in the Australian, British, and American press. The Turkish Army, aware of his reputation, brought in their own crack shot, “Abdul the Terrible.” In a fierce duel, Billy ultimately shot and killed Abdul, narrowly escaping retaliation.
For his efforts, Trooper Sing was mentioned in Despatches by General Sir Ian Hamilton and awarded the British Distinguished Conduct Medal in 1916 for his gallant sniper skills. After being discharged from the army, Billy returned to Clermont with gunshot wounds in the left shoulder, back and left leg and had suffered gas poisoning. He turned his hand to sheep farming and gold mining and moved to a mining claim on the Miclere goldfield. He later moved to Brisbane in 1942 where he died at the age of 57.
On this milestone anniversary, we remember the fallen of Gallipoli, the shattered lives and broken hearts. We also remember all those who served across generations and conflicts and we thank them and their families for their sacrifices.”
For more information on Anzac Day services organised by local community groups and RSL sub-branches, with the support of Isaac Regional Council, visit https://www.isaac.qld.gov.au/Community/Anzac-Day.
ENDS