Simpson and his Donkey - Gallipoli Folk Song - Written and Preformed by Tony Aylward

Original folk song describes the bravery of John Simpson Kirkpatrick who was sent as a stretcher bearer to Gallipoli during WW1. Simpson rescued hundreds of wounded soldiers with the help of a donkey by carrying them from the heights of no mans land down the steep terrain to the Gallipoli landing beaches. Simpson only survived for three and a half weeks but his tireless effort to save lives, cheerful humour and courage under constant fire defined the spirit of ANZAC and created a Gallipoli legend. My song tells the story of a wounded soldier who owed his life to Simpson and his donkey. Winner of the (Most Engaging Lyric) at the Tasmanian Composers Festival 2015 Tony's E mail address is [email protected]