State Member for Gippsland East and Shadow Minister for Veterans Affairs, Tim Bull, is encouraging primary schools across East Gippsland to apply for the chance to receive one of the 100 seedlings available from the famous Lone Pine tree from Gallipoli.

The Lone Pine battlefield was named for the solitary Turkish pine that stood there at the start of the ANZAC assault in August 2015.

“This is a fantastic project that is endorsed through RSL Victoria, specifically the Friends of Gallipoli,” Mr Bull said.

“It aims to solidify the connection between younger generations and Australia’s history, whilst teaching students the importance of paying our respects and honouring those who have served and died for our country.

“I have written to all public primary schools in my electorate inviting them to join in, and pleasingly, several have taken up offer already.

“Eagle Point, Bruthen, Buchan, Lakes Entrance and Clifton Creek have signed up to participate and they are to be congratulated for committing to this significant initiative.

“Clifton Creek tragically lost their Lone Pine when the bushfire raised the school in the 2019 Black Summer Bushfire.

“It will be a special moment when this seedling is replanted, and the students will play a role in tending to the pine as it matures.”

Successful applicants will receive the seedlings in time to celebrate the Centenary of the Republic of Turkey.

“The seedlings will be allocated on a first come, first served basis,” Mr Bull said.

“I strongly encourage all primary schools to apply by registering with the Friends of Gallipoli Chairman Dr John Basarin via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..”

Caption: State MP and Shadow Minister for Veterans Affairs, Tim Bull, is encouraging local State Primary Schools to apply for a seedling from the famous Loan Pine tree from Gallipoli. He is pictured at Metung RSL’s Lone Pine.

Monday, 23th May 2022