Anzac: War memorabilia collectors come up trumps at Brisbane antique stores in lead-up to Gallipoli centenary

ANTIQUE stores across the southside are reporting huge interest in Anzac memorabilia ahead of this month’s 100th anniversary of Gallipoli.

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AS the 100th anniversary of Gallipoli approaches, collectors are looking to get their hands on a piece of history.

Southside Antiques at Annerley in Brisbane, has been inundated by private collectors of Anzac memorabilia, as well as from museums and RSLs.

Military dealer at Southside Antiques, Suzanne Nott, said people were often inspired by the store to look up their family history.

Diaries, paybooks, dog tags and a photograph are among items that collectors are seeking. Picture: RENAE DROOP

To commemorate 100 years since the Anzac landing at Gallipoli, and recognise the sacrifices of those men and women who have served out country since WWI, Quest Community Newspapers will publish one story each day online in the lead-up to Anzac Day.

One of the store’s most significant pieces is the diary of Private Harry Hawkes.

He served in the 12th Field Ambulance in France, and Ms Nett said it was a rare find because soldiers were discouraged from keeping personal diaries in case they fell into enemy hands.

“It gives us insight into the day-to-day life of soldiers,” she said.

WWI General service medals — 1914/15 star, British War medal and the Victory medal. On display at Southside Antiques. Picture: RENAE DROOP

A memorial ribbon issued to the widow/mother of a serviceman killed in WWI. On sale at Southside Antiques in Annerley. Picture: RENAE DROOP

Letter of condolence from the Lord Mayor of Brisbane in 1915 to the family of Mr Alfred Kemp, of Wynnum. Picture: RENAE DROOP THIS story is part of Quest Community Newspaper’s 100 Years, 100 Days, 100 Stories project, which will profile Queensland WWI heroes and families as the nation builds up to the centenary of the Allied landing on Gallipoli on April 25, 1915. If you have the details and war record of a family member who served during WWI, let us know on our Facebook page or email [e-mail]

Originally published as Anzac: War memorabilia collectors come up trumps at Brisbane antique stores in lead-up to Gallipoli centenary