A unique photographic exhibition was launched last weekend, in honour of Lemnos’ role during the Gallipoli campaign.

Housed at the Thessaloniki Association community hall, the exhibition consists of 40 photographs taken by ANZAC and other allied soldiers on the island of Lemnos during the war period.

Also exhibited on the night were a number of original paintings by Melbourne artist and graphic designer, George Petrou.

Featuring some of the well-known diggers and nurses in Lemnos during the campaign, in addition to village scenes from the island, the works are a result of the artists’ own interpretations from the Lemnos ANZAC archive.

Officially opened by consul-general of Greece, Christina Simantiraki, attendees were then addressed by president of the Lemnos Gallipoli Commemorative Committee, Lee Tarlamis who went on to explain the role of the Committee.

The funds raised will go towards the Lemnos Gallipoli Memorial in Albert and the proposed historical publication, which will see the first time publication of various photographs from the period.

According to the exhibition’s curator and secretary of the Committee, Jim Claven, one the greatest features of the night was the presence of a number of people whose family members served in Lemnos or Salonika during the First World War.

The launch saw a great turn out, including the presence of former MP John Pandazopoulos, and mayor of the City of Yarra, Phillip Vlahogiannis.

Over the next few weeks the exhibition will remain at the community hall, following which it will travel to various locations, including the City of Yarra.

To organise a time to view the exhibition, email Paul Mavroudis at paulmav@tpg.com.au