10 October 2001
Media Release
Children of Gallipoli Tell Their Family Stories
The Gallipoli conflict is the subject of a one-hour documentary supported by NZ On Air. This documentary will be told
through the eyes of the great grandchildren of those who fought in the conflict; two from New Zealand and two from
Turkey.
“Children of Gallipoli will be a moving and insightful documentary about one of the most important and tragic battles in
which New Zealanders ever fought; an event which has become synonymous with the ANZAC spirit and even the nationhood of
New Zealand and Australia,” said NZ On Air chief executive, Jo Tyndall.
“The children will tell their great grandfathers’ stories through letters, diaries, photos, paintings and tales handed
down through the families. This will be the first time we will hear a Turkish voice talking about the conflict at
Gallipoli. It will provide a fascinating and illuminating counterpoint to the New Zealand experience, and will be
invaluable in providing a fuller understanding of the conflict,” said Ms Tyndall.
NZ On Air has allocated $179,942 to Anna Cottrell to produce the one-hour documentary, Children of Gallipoli, intended
for broadcast in primetime on ANZAC Day, 2002.
Anna Cottrell is one of New Zealand’s most experienced director/producers. Anna’s previous credits include directing
Ninox Films' production The Last of the Anzacs, which told the stories of New Zealand’s last remaining Gallipoli
survivors.
ends
This media release is available on the Internet, at http://www.nzonair.govt.nz
Funding details:
Children of Gallipoli $179,942
1 x 1 hour documentary
Broadcaster: TV One
Producer: Anna Cottrell, Anna Cottrell Productions