Brothers in Arms: supporting fiercely loyal, unflinchingly brave ‘brothers in arms’ who have fought alongside Australians since Gallipoli
Repaying the debt: providing comfort, shelter and care to past generations living in some of the toughest places on the planet
Keeping the link: the ties, the joint history, the links to Nepal, the Nepalese diaspora and brother Regiments
Gurkhas are elite soldiers from Nepal who serve in the British Army and have stood beside Australian troops in almost every conflict since Gallipoli.
Gurkhas Australia supports Gurkha veterans, widows and communities in Nepal through 'The Gurkha Welfare Trust' the leading charity in Nepal. Although current Gurkhas receive full pensions, previous generations do not and so many rely on our generosity simply to survive.
In the last decade numerous earthquakes have smashed communities and homes, killing veterans and their families, only adding to the challenge of supporting our ‘brothers in arms' in their time of need. The Gurkha Welfare Trust are rebuilding earthquake strength houses for veterans and their families. Whilst also providing clean water and sanitation for many communities and a pension for over 4,400 Gurkha veterans and their widows with an average age of 80.
Bravest of Brave
Gurkhas are known to be as fearless in conflict as they are good-natured outside it. They are renowned for their loyalty, professionalism and bravery. Over two hundred years of service, 13 Victoria Crosses and many bravery awards later, they remain “the bravest of the brave”.. and at our side.
Brothers in Arms
From the deadly slopes of Gallipoli to the treacherous plains of Afghanistan, Gurkhas have stood side by side and fought alongside Australian soldiers and Special Forces. They have served the Allies for over 200 years. Our brothers in arms fought in Burma and Borneo and were also in East Timor under the command of Governor-General General Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC.
Debt of Honour
Many Gurkha soldiers have served alongside Australian troops, yet without the 15 years of service needed to qualify for an Army pension, they have nothing. Nepal is an incredibly poor country and there is no safety net unless we provide one. Our funds help provide financial, medical and development aid to Gurkha veterans, their families, widows and communities.
The Gurkhas are coming!
Prior to COVID Gurkhas came on a bi-annual six week training exercise in Northern Queensland. Post that, Gurkhas volunteered to visit Sydney to build awareness and to support the fund raising efforts of Gurkhas Australia. When they come again, this is your chance to meet them, learn with them and dine with them.
“As the inscription on the Gurkha memorial in London states, they are the bravest of the brave, most generous of the generous,” former Prime Minister Tony Abbott. Now it is our turn.
