Sands of Gallipoli

Sands of Gallipoli tops expectations for fundraising Australia's Sands of Gallipoli collectibles have officially generated $400,000 in revenue for the country's Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL), and is well on its way to exceeding expectations for fund raising for 2006.

The RSL national president Major General Bill Crews said "The RSL is pleased to support the Sands of Gallipoli initiative and will receive a 10% donation from Market Link Solutions on all sales of the products. These funds will support the RSL's ongoing welfare work in the veteran community." General Crews accepted the latest funds in November 2005 - just over $132,000 - at a ceremony held in Canberra.The special Sands of Gallipoli collectibles are the brainchild of a Canberra company, Market Link Solutions. They include lapel pins, key rings, medallions, teaspoons, and plaques which contain authentic sand from ANZAC Cove.Managing Director of Market Link Solutions, Stephen Davie, says, "We expect to surpass our target for 2006 fundraising thanks to the many thousands of Australians commemorating the ANZAC Spirit by raising money for the RSL. Our goal for this year is to raise $150,000. We're well on our way with over a $40,000 donation earmarked from early orders placed by clients, with this years donation we will exceed the $500,000 mark."

Australians have purchased over 130,000 Sands of Gallipoli items since they were introduced in 2003. Last year the most popular item has been the Limited Edition set of six commemorative medallions that depict key stages in the Gallipoli campaign. Initial stocks had sold out quickly and production was accelerated to make more sets available immediately after ANZAC Day.The new 2006 collection has a strong ANZAC theme, depicting the service men and women of Australian and New Zealand. The limited edition medallions are housed in beautiful rotating timber display stands and are sure to appeal to collectors and those looking for a unique gift.Orders are currently been taken for the 2006 collection, which will be delivered to retailers in late March to coincide with a national public relations campaign in mid April in the lead into ANZAC Day.For an order form, see the 1st quarter 2006 edition of Postal News, or contact Market Link Solutions now on:Phone: (02) 6123 2999Fax: (02) 6262 3072Email: sales@marketlinksolutions.com.auOr visit their website at www.militaryshop.com.au