Security increased over Gallipoli Anzac Day terror fears

PRIVATE security guards have been doubled with snipers and concrete blockades introduced to protect Australian pilgrims from potential terror threats at Gallipoli.

Heavy security around Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey ahead of Anzac day celebration. Pic Ella Pellegrini

PRIVATE security guards have been doubled with snipers and concrete blockades introduced to protect Australian pilgrims from a potential terror threat at Gallipoli.

Terrorism fears in Turkey have sparked an increase in security measures around the Gallipoli peninsula with traveller’s bags to be X-rayed on arrival while security guard and local gendarmerie numbers are also expected to be doubled.

An insider involved in the organisation of the site told News Corp Australia while locals did not believe there would be an attack, authorities and organisers were determined to ensure the safety of those attending the Anzac services.

“Last year there was more than enough security but with the terrorist attack fears they are introducing more ... private security has doubled and there will be concrete blockades to stop cars.”

It is understood senior figures within the Turkish army have also visited the site to review security measures in the week leading up to Anzac Day while organisers have changed the Lone Pine Service to be held Sunday night, before Anzac Day, rather than after.

But the measures have not helped boost tourist confidence with local tour operators predicting a huge drop in the number of Australians making the journey to Turkey.

The potential for a terror attack in Turkey ahead of Anzac Day celebrations has seen an increase in heavy security around the Gallipoli Peninsula. Picture: Ella Pellegrini

The number of seats, initially set up to hold more than 2000, was dismantled with about 1550 now available.

One of Eceabat’s longest-running tour and hotel operators Ilhami Gezici, who owns TJ’s Hotel, said booking numbers had dropped by 50 per cent compared to former years.

“I’ve been working here for 25 years and in those 25 years, this year will be the lowest numbers of all,” he said.

“I believe most people are planning to go to France and the second reason is the terror threat.”

In the Australian government’s most recent notice, travellers have been warned to exercise a “high degree” of caution when travelling in Turkey, which shares a border with Iraq and Syria, while tourists should reconsider travel through the main cities of Ankara and Istanbul.

Mr Gezici said he had already had one family cancel their booking as their trip could not be covered by insurance.

Australia’s services director for the commemoration Tim Evans admitted numbers were down.

“The number of people attending in 2016 is expected to be lower compared to recent years following the Centenary in 2015 and as people’s focus moves to commemorations this year of the 100th anniversary of the Western Front and the official ceremonies there,” he said.

Olimpia Goseler, tour operator in Eceabat. Pic Ella Pellegrini

He said security would be provided by a combination of Turkish, Australian and New Zealand agencies.

“This year security will be enhanced by the use of x-ray screening for bags,” he said.

“We are not aware of any specific threat to the Anzac Day service in Gallipoli and security can be increased if deemed necessary.”

But for Goondiwindi State High School student Daniel Gilbert and his classmates, the trip has been a highlight.

The 16-year-old’s great great great uncle David Tomlinson landed in Gallipoli and died after being fatally shot about 70 days later when he was just 22.

“I feel like I owe it to him to remember him and come here,” the high school student said.

“It’s great to see Gallipoli and understand just how bad the terrain would have been for them.”

The Queensland state school, who raised funds through their community for a biannual trip to Turkey including $15,000 from their local RSL, changed their itinerary to avoid potential targets like the Blue Mosque and Istanbul.