From Gallipoli to the Western Front:

Reflections on the Lived Experience of ANZAC

Cove and a Quarry — Do Tanks Save Lives?

Who were the men and women who served on the Gallipoli peninsula? This presentation reflects on their lived experiences through the story of Lieutenant Colonel (Dr) Thomas, a medical officer from Timaru, New Zealand, who was killed in action at Gallipoli. His personal journey offers a poignant lens into the realities of service and sacrifice.

The presentation will shift focus to the Western Front, exploring how the introduction of tanks changed the nature of warfare — and arguably saved countless lives.

Combining personal narrative with historical analysis, this presentation offers a unique perspective on two defining chapters of ANZAC military history.

Friday, 2nd May

6pm for 6:30pm seating

$72 per person includes a three-course meal with tea, coffee and port to finish

Beverages at own care

Guests Welcome

Dress Code: Black Tie, uniform, medals and decorations

Maj Brendan Wood KStJ, DSD, ED, is a registered Paramedic with a Bachelor of Health Science and a Postgraduate Diploma in Paramedicine.

Since 1990, he has worked extensively in emergency ambulance services and has been instrumental in developing healthcare and military leaders. He served as Chief Instructor of the NZDF Defence Health School (2014–2015).

Brendan is currently a Senior Lecturer and Military Programme Leader at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) and works closely with the NZDF.

He is Deputy Chancellor of Hato Hone St John New Zealand, chairs its National Clinical Governance Committee, and serves on the Board of the Australasian Military Medicine Association.

He is a Knight of the Order of St John (KStJ), and recipient of the New Zealand Distinguished Service Decoration (DSD) and Efficiency Decoration (ED). In 2019, he was appointed a Fellow of the Australasian College of Paramedicine.