Registered by AUSTRALIA POST NO. PP607128/00001 Listening ... · 9 November 1914 HMAS Sydney [I]...

50th Anniversary of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam

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ListeningListeningOctober 2012 VOL. 35 No. 5

The official journal of The ReTuRNed & SeRViceS League Of auSTRaLia Wa Branch incorporated • PO Box 3023 east Perth, 6892 • established 1920

Major Peter John Badcoe Warrant Officer Class II Keith Payne Warrant Officer Class II Kevin Arthur Wheatley Warrant Officer Class II Rayene Stewart Simpson

AATTV Victoria Cross Recipients

The LisTening PosT October 20122THE

PostPostListeningListeningOctober 2012 VOL. 35 No.5

We are proud of our long association with the RSL and are pleased to provide members with the following

services

Probate and Deceased Estates - David Miller

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Family Law - Tony Milne

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inDeXLisTening PosT MessAge BoARD

Publishing of The Listening Post

'The Listening Post' is published 6 times a year, and has a

readership of over 25,000.

Infringement of Copyright Laws

We cannot accept Newspaper Clippings for publication without express approval

from the Newspaper Editor as we can infringe on Copyright Laws.

Denis Connelly, Editor

To all Sub Branch Presidents' and

Secretariessend photographs and a short article on special activities at your Sub Branch to

The Listening Post. Denis Connelly, Editor

Deadline for next edition: 16 november, 2012For contributions to next edition.If possible, submissions should be typed and double-spaced. Preferred method of receiving submissions is via email. Photographs can be black and white or colour. This is your journal and contributions are welcome.Address to: The Editor, The Listening PostRSL, PO Box 3023 East Perth, WA 6892Email: [email protected] expressed by contributors in articles and reproduced articles are the individuals opinions or the authors of such reproduced articles and are not necessarily those of the RSL.Reproduction of articles (or extracts) contained in The Listening Post are welcomed, provided the source is acknowledged. The Editor reserves the right to accept, reject, sub-edit and re-arrange material submitted for publication.

Contact Directory and Editorial Information ........................3

This Month in Australian Military History ...............................4

From the President’s Pen ............................................................................5 - 6

From the Bunker ......................................................................................................6 - 7

Pensions, Advocacy & Welfare Services ..........................................8

From the Archives ............................................................................................................8

Vietnam Veterans' Day 2012 ........................................................... 10 - 12

Notices .............................................................................................................................25 – 26

Suduko and Crossword ........................................................................................ 27

Solutions ...................................................................................................................................... 28

The Last Post ....................................................................................................................... 28

The LiSTeNiNg POST October 2009 3The LisTening PosT October 2012 3

State PresidentMr William Gaynor OAM RFDState Vice PresidentMr Denis ConnellyState TreasurerMr Phillip DraberState ExecutiveMr Damian DixonMr Dilwyn “Digger” Cleak OAMMrs Donna PrytulakMr Gary ScottMr Ian Johnstone RFDMr John McCourt

Mr Peter AspinallMr Peter FardonMr Ross DaviesDr Neil MacNeillTrusteesMr Don Blair OAM RFD ED

Mr John Cox OAM JP

Mr Kevin Trent OAM RFD

Mr Wayne Tarr RFD ED

CEO / STATE SecretaryCMDR Philip Orchard AFNI RAN (Rtd)

sTATe eXeCUTiVe 2011-2014

editorial informationEditor/Vice President: Denis Connelly (08) 9287 3716Email: [email protected] Assistant: Nola KeenRSL Advertising:Administrative Assistant / Assistant Editor: Amy HuntEmail: [email protected] Graphic Design: Type ExpressPrinter: Rural Press

Contact DetailsThe Returned & Services League of Australia WA Branch IncorporatedANZAC House 28 St Georges Tce PERTH WA 6000Email: [email protected] Website: www.rslwahq.org.au Telephone: (08) 9287 3799Facsimile: (08) 9287 3732WA Country Callers: 1800 259 799PO Box 3023, East Perth, WA 6892

Contact DirectoryDepartments at ANZAC HouseCEO / State Secretary: CMDR Phillip Orchard AFNI RAN (Rtd) 9287 3799 Assistant State Secretary: Nola Keen 9287 3702 Executive Assistant: Caitlin HarnwellReceptionist: Wendy QuinnMembership: Kathy Clark, 8.00am to 3.30pm Mon-Thurs, 9287 3705ANZAC House Manager: Matthew Holyday 9287 3714Financial Services: Peter McGlade 9287 3718. Helen Beech 8.30am to 4.30pm Mon-Thurs 9287 3703Archivist: Naomi Lam 9287 3713, Departments at 8 Irwin StWelfare: Rosalind Howat 8.30am 4.30pm Mon-Fri, 9287 3707 • 0412 009 191Snr Advocate: Jim Boland 8.00am to 4.00pm Mon-Fri, 9287 3708

ConTACT DiReCToRY

State Premier The Hon Colin Barnett MLA recently travelled to Albany to announce funding sup-port for the Centenary of ANZAC Commemorative Activities in Albany scheduled to commence in November 2014 to coincide with the departure of the convoys trans-porting Australian troops to the battlefields of the First World War. Albany is generally recognised as the beginning of the ‘ANZAC Legend’ and it is fitting that it will herald the beginning of Australia wide commemorations that will honour the original ANZACs’

Accompanied by RSL State President Bill Gaynor OAM RFD, Sub Branch President Peter Aspinall and City of Albany Mayor Cr Dennis Wellington the Premier

announced the allocation of some $8m for site preparation and area refurbishment for the construction of an ANZAC Information Centre and upgrades to the existing Desert Mounted Corp Memorial. This allocation is in addition to amounts already pledged. The announcement was made at the Desert Mounted Corp Memorial sited at one of the highest points in the area and overlooking King George Sound where the fleet transporting the troops from the Eastern States bunkered and took on supplies prior to departing for the battlefields of the Great War.

The State Governments’ financial contribution will supplement funding commitments from the Commonwealth Government and private enterprise to refurbish existing facilities and construct an information Centre that will become a feature of the education program that will tell the beginning of the ANZAC Story. With the generous financial

support and technical expertise from many organisations it is anticipated that the entire precinct, including the existing forts will be refurbished and the establishment of iconic walks and pathways will suitably relate the ‘beginning of the ANZAC Legend’ which is anticipated to receive world wide recognition.

For the past eighteen months a small group of representatives from community based organisations and the RSL have worked on developing concept plans for the commemorative activities and under the guidance of Brig Geoff Hand AM have developed strategies that will encourage complete community involvement in the management of the 50 000 plus visitors expected to visit Albany to witness a re-enactment of the departure of the convoys from Albany for the Great War. The logistics of managing such a group of visitors to the Albany area has presented some challenges

but with the support of neighbouring Shire Councils at Denmark and Plantagenet (Mt Barker) there is an air of confidence in the organising group that all visitors will be accommodated.

While it is recognised that the Departure of the Convoys from Albany will be the ‘curtain raising event’ for Australian –wide activities it will become the beginning of an education process that will last for many years as a new generation of young Australians learn more of the sacrifices made by young Australians a century ago.

The venture is a project initiated by the RSL and is supported by the Commonwealth and State Governments and the City of Albany with valued support from Lotterywest and business entitled throughout the Albany Region and Great Southern Region of Western Australia.

government Announces Funding for Centenary

of AnZAC Commemorative Activities

he following information has been passed to all Sub-Branch Presidents & Secretaries:

Since drafting my initial arti-cle, post Congress 2011, and providing ‘sitreps’ as informa-tion has come to hand I still get asked for intricate detail of my investigation. Legal advice sought at the time con-sidered many allegations to be baseless, whilst those alleging merely technical irregularities were disregarded as inconse-quential. Legal opinion could not exclude the possibility that the process conducted may have materially affected the outcome of one or more of the ballots. Accordingly, the State

Executive determined that the possibility of an unfair outcome was sufficient for the RSL WA State Branch to seek a declara-tion from the Supreme Court of Western Australia that the election was invalid and the outcomes were void.

The Executive of the RSL sin-cerely apologised at the time for these regrettable circumstances and their primary concern was for me to act decisively, trans-parently and in the interests of procedural fairness for all candidates and Sub-Branches in accordance with the values of the RSL. The process has been lengthy and demanding. The Order from the Supreme Court

Registrar directing that the State Congress Election of 26 November 2011 be ‘declared a nullity and of no force or effect’ was recently passed to the WA Electoral Commission. This documentation was forwarded requesting they (WAEC), as an independent body, conduct the election.

A positive response was received and planning/discus-sion in place with the intention of completing the process no later than 30 December 2012. It is of note the Order high-lighted that all actions taken, resolutions passed, decisions made, powers exercised, func-tions performed and duties dis-

charged by the State Executive, constituted as a result of the announcement of the outcome of the Election in November shall have the same validity, force and effect as if taken, passed, made, exercised, per-formed and discharged by a duly elected State Executive pursuant to Rule 33 of the Constitution.’

I, in consultation with the Electoral Commissioner and his team, have discussed con-stitutional requirements, time-tables, documentation prepara-tion and methodology to ensure all legal requirements are met. As a result the Electoral Commissioner has issued the

attached letter regarding the process and timing.

It is appreciated that, for some Sub-Branches, the schedule is tight hence this early notifica-tion. The WAEC nomination form/template will require that Nominees are:

financial Life/Service member of the League;

the member was nominat-ed at a properly constituted Sub-Branch meeting by two AUTHORISED office bearers; and

that the form is signed and dated accordingly.

Continued on page 4…

Election Update

A Message From the Ceo / state secretary

The LisTening PosT October 20124This Month in Australian Military History

Date Year Title event1 November 1914 First AIF sails The first Australian and New Zealand contingent sails from Albany, Western Australia, bound

for Egypt. Only one in three of those who sailed in the first convoy would return physically unscathed at the end of the First World War.

5 November 1950 No. 77 Squadron RAAF supports 3RAR

No. 77 Squadron RAAF, for the first time in the Korean War, flies in support of the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, in the Pakchon-Sinanju road area, Korea. Australian Mustang fighters strafed Chinese positions just before 3RAR commenced its assault at Pakchon.

9 November 1914 HMAS Sydney [I] destroys SMS Emden

HMAS Sydney destroys the German cruiser Emden, off the Cocos-Keeling Islands. The Emden had delayed the first convoy carrying Australian troops to Egypt, but was driven ashore by Sydney in a brief but bloody action.

18 November 1916 Somme campaign ends After four months and more than 1,200,000 casualties on both sides, General Douglas Haig calls off the Somme offensive.

8 December 1941 Australia at war with Japan Australia announces that it is at war with Japan. Some 17,000 Australians would die in the three-and-a-half-year war against Japan, 8,000 as prisoners of war.

17 December 1967 HMAS Perth under fire HMAS Perth comes under fire off Dong Hoi, Vietnam.

31 December 1914 The second convoy of the first AIF departs Albany

Volunteers for the AIF enlisted so readily that a second convoy of reinforcements left within two months of the first. Many of those aboard its ships would land on Gallipoli on 25 April 1915.

31 December 1967 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment arrives in South Vietnam

The 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, sailed to Vietnam on HMAS Sydney.

7 January 1952 HMAS Tobruk bombards Chomi Do, Korea

The bombardment of Chomi Do, on the Haeju Gulf north-west of Seoul, forestalled a North Korean invasion of Yongmae Do, an island about 20 kilometres from Inchon.

25 January 1942 Full mobilisation ordered in Australia

The threat of a Japanese invasion and the proximity of Japanese forces to Australia demanded an increased commitment from the Government and public.

These events are only a selected number of significant dates when Australians were involved in activities of importance. For the complete list go to: www.awm.gov.au

Election UpdateRsL state executive election - 2012 -Conduct, Manner and Form• The election of the State Executive will be conducted

to the following timeline: Election Advertisement - Thursday 18 October 2012 Opening of Nominations- Thursday 25 October 2012 Close of Nominations- Wednesday 7 November 2012,

12.00 noon Close of Roll of Delegates- Wednesday 7 November

2012, 12.00 noon Mail-out of Election Packages - Thursday 15

November 2012 Polling Day- Thursday 6 December 2012, 10.00 am

close• The election of the State Executive will involve sepa-

rate ballots for the positions of State President, State Vice-President, Honorary State Treasurer and six Life or Service members. The terms of office of these members will expire at the date of the State congress in 2015.

• There will not be an election for members of the seven geographic regions, other than for the single vacancy existing in the upper South West region. It is determined that as at the close of nominations on 7 October 2011 for the 2011 election these six members were elected unop-posed and arguably outside the Court Order. The term of office of these six members would end at the date of the State Congress in 2014. The term of office for the upper South West vacancy would end at the date of the State Congress in 2014 (that is a two year term only) and aligning all geographic member positions.

• Nominations for all positions will be opened. Nominations accepted for the 2011 election are deemed to have lapsed as have the 2011 candidate profiles. Candidates intending to nominate are to conform to the requirements of Rule 33.5. Candidates may provide a profile of no more than 150 words for publication with ballot papers. Profiles are to be confined to biographical information about the proposed candidate and state-

ments of the candidate’s policies or beliefs, and are not to contain information that the returning officer consid-ers to be false, misleading or defamatory.

• Where Rule 33 does not provide detail sufficient to cover all elements of the postal voting election process, then the Western Australian Electoral Commission will conform with their Standard Election Rules.

In accordance with the above timeline, the Western Australian Electoral Commission is to:• Appoint the Returning Officer.• Publish the election notice and call for nominations in a

newspaper circulating widely in the State.• Receive nominations and, with the State Secretary, con-

firm nominations are correct.• Receive the certified list of entitled sub-branch voting

delegates from the State Secretary and cause the issue of ballot papers by post to each person named on the Roll of Delegates.

• Receive returned ballot papers and at the close of the poll, and in the presence of scrutineers, if any, count the votes in accordance with Rule 33.9.

In accordance with the above timeline, the State Secretary is to:

• Advise sub-branches of the election time line and the election process.

• Cause sub-branches to identify their delegates entitled to vote in the election.

• Compile the list of entitled sub-branch voting delegates, including their postal address and certify this list as cor-rect as at the Close of Roll of Delegates, Wednesday 7 November 2012.

• At the Close of Nominations, certify as correct, the names of authorised sub-branch officers proposing the nomination of the nominee, and the eligibility of the nominee to stand as a candidate.

• Prescribe the place, time and form of the declaration of the result.

Continued from page 3 Letter from WA Electoral CommissionDear Mr Orchard,

Thank you for the opportunity to be involved in the election of the State Executive for the Returned Services League of Australia, Western Australian Branch Incorporated.

I note the order made by Registrar Whitby on 6 July 2012 declaring the election of the State Executive on 26 November 2011 as a nullity and of no force or effect. Accepting that it is the intention of the State Executive to delegate the conduct of the fresh election to the Electoral Commissioner, I consent to conduct the election as required by Rule 33 of the Constitution and in the manner and form described at Annex A. The estimated cost of conducting the election as a postal voting election is $4,300 - $4,500.

While much of the detail at Annex A is pro-cedural, this is considered necessary to give effect to the Court Order and define the limits within which the Electoral Commission will operate and with which the State Executive are agreed. Also I seek assurance that the Electoral Commission will be indemni-fied by the Returned Services League of Australia, WA Branch Incorporated, in rela-tion to any legal proceedings against the Commission arising out of or relating to the implications of the 2011 election nullifica-tion.

Yours sincerely,Warwick Gately AM Electoral

Commissioner18 September 2012

The LisTening PosT October 2012 5From the President’s Pen

Much ill informed and unfounded criticism continues to be circulated about the RSL's stand on this issue. The following is an abridged version of the text of a letter the National President sent recently to one who wrote to him about the topic. Thank you for your letter in which you expressed your “profound concern at the total failure of the RSL to support the efforts of the ex-service community to have military pensions indexed at a rate more relevant to the cost of living than the CPI”.

The reality is that the RSL has been and remains in the vanguard of ex-service efforts aimed at persuading the Commonwealth Parliament to amend legislation to provide for a better level of indexation of military superannuation payments than is provided by the Consumer Price Index.

We made a formal detailed submission about this issue to Government in 2010. Since then we have continued to try to persuade Members of the House of Representatives and Senators to support this justifiable proposition.

Prior to the debate in the Senate in June 2011 about the Fair Indexation Bill introduced by the Opposition as a Private Member’s Bill, I lobbied former Senator Fielding to support the legislation; but despite three meetings with Senator Xenophon was unable to gain his crucial vote. The legislation failed to pass when the vote in the Senate was tied.

I was present in the Senate visitor’s gallery throughout the debate on the Fair Indexation Bill to make the point that the RSL is actively involved at the highest level. It is worth recording that the lack of visible support by other ex-service organisation national presidents while this crucial matter was being debated was noted by our elected representatives.

I have recently addressed RSL Annual State Congresses in all States and Territories (except WA because that meeting is not scheduled until later in the year), and in each instance have spoken at length to large numbers of RSL delegates about the actions we have taken about this matter and our intention of keeping up the pressure. I have also spoken to meetings at places as diverse as Cooma, Manly/Lota and Casino in recent months.

Unlike others in the ex-service community we do not target the electoral outcomes for individual members of the Commonwealth Parliament because this is tantamount to active political involvement. Instead we put our case firmly and succinctly to the leaders of the federal political parties and to the independent members of the cross benches. I have personally raised the issue with Prime Minister Gillard on a couple of occasions and will do so again when I next meet with her. It is unfortunate that this principled and very effective stance is criticised by some ill informed members of the ex-service community leading to unjustified claims, such as yours, about the RSL’s “total failure to support the ex-service

community” about this matter.

I take every opportunity to keep RSL members fully informed about all issues through my National President’s Newsletters each of which is now posted on the RSL national web site www.rsl.org.au . My newsletter No 2 of 2012 points out that when the Leader of the Opposition decided to formally affirm the Opposition’s commitment to some improvement in the indexation of some military superannuants on gaining Government, he did so at the large and important regional RSL Sub Branch at Bendigo. More to the point, Mr Abbott made the presentation of the signed pledge to me as National President of Australia’s largest and most influential ex-service organisation – and invited me to respond to the large gathering when he had concluded his remarks.

In sum, I am saddened you should think so poorly of the RSL. I trust that my remarks will go some way towards reassuring you that on this and many other issues the RSL is proud to be the most effective national representative body caring for the needs of the ex-service community.

Members, and the veteran community are assured that the RSL is active in progressing this issue at all levels of gov-ernment in a positive and professional manner.

RsL Priorities for government to address Veterans’ Affairs issuesAt the recently held National Congress, delegates resolved to issue a list of pri-orities to government for consideration in the forthcoming budget allocations. While 7 items have been listed in priority order there are other issues that need to be addressed. In the past we have found that there has been due consideration of our listed items and this approach appears to have some input on how issues are addressed.

Nonetheless all listed items are con-tinually placed before government for funding considerations, however limited funding results in only our priority listed items receiving attention.

indexationThat the indexation of all components of Military Superannuation under the DFRDB and MSBS schemes be calcu-lated by an indexation regime matching cost of living increases.

Rationale:

The RSL contends that the nexus between military superannuation schemes and other Commonwealth superannuation schemes for indexation of payments is a policy aberration, is inconsistent with the legislative base of the schemes, is unjust and recommends it be abandoned. The RSL also considers that the findings of the 2008 review of the indexation of superannuation are questionable and its recommendationEditorial Assistantse the inquiry terms of reference did not rec-ognize the fact that the Commonwealth Parliament has thrice legislated for mili-tary superannuation schemes separate from civilian superannuation schemes. Separate and detailed submissions on this issue have been made to both the

Review of Military Superannuation, and the more recent Review of Indexation of Commonwealth Superannuation includ-ing DFRDB. The fundamental issue is one of equity for those who have served our nation in our Defence Forces.

BesT FundingThat the Government immediately rein-state funding for BEST Round 15 to the Round 12 appropriation.

Rationale:

The funding for BEST was cut from $4M in Round 12 to $3.5M in Round 13 to $2.6M in the current Round 14. This cut has caused considerable difficulty to RSL Sub-Branch Pension, Welfare Officers and Advocates in assisting Veterans and Serving Members in their applications for Entitlements. In Victoria, some Veteran Centres have been forced to close even though in the BEST Review of 2011 they were highlighted as the model which all ESO 's should aspire to.

Mental health Disorders and RehabilitationThat the Government continues to enhance a national mental health reha-bilitation scheme for veterans suffering with chronic mental health problems based on individual case assessment and management programs.

Rationale:

The Dunt Report recommended that The ADF and DVA should have joint respon-sibility for a comprehensive transition service that works closely within the ADF Transition Centres and extends to at least 12 months post discharge". The Government has accepted the wide rang-ing recommendations of the Dunt Report and the Department of Defence will now implement them, committing 83M over the next four years.

The RSL has long believed that there is a need for greater funding being directed towards a national mental health reha-bilitation scheme as ex-service men and women frequently fail to have their ongoing mental health issues managed post discharge (particularly when relo-cating to rural and remote areas) due to a lack of funding and a shortfall in the number of service providers. We are aware that The Australian Government provides funding to States and Territories to assist them to provide free public hospital services for public patients and urge the Government to ensure that this level of funding keeps pace with the ris-ing need for mental health and wellbeing programs for people affected by mental illness or psychiatric disabilities who live in the community.

A report by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) released on 14 July 2006 recognised that ''people with mental illness are amongst the most socially disadvantaged and economically marginalized" who require a wide range of services including "stable housing by linking them with personal support services" and "improving referral path-ways and links between clinical, accom-modation, personal and vocational sup-port programs". This report has been endorsed by all Australian States and Territories and action plans developed

for implementation.

Residential Care-Younger VeteransThat the Government develop a system to ensure access to appropriate accommo-dation for disabled Veterans (physically and psychologically disabled) requiring 24 hour supported living.

Rationale:

We seek affordable and age appropri-ate accommodation options for Veterans who are unable to live in the com-munity and are too young to access the Commonwealth funded residential aged care system. Within the ex- service community a small number of Veterans, generally in the 30's to 50's age groups, are unable to live in the community or with their families as a result of signifi-cant physical, medical or emotional care needs.

Although far from ideal, in cases of extreme physical disability it may be possible for a younger person to be assessed as eligible for admission to a nursing home by an Aged Care Assessment Team. However for younger Veterans whose needs for residential care are primarily related to complex psycho-logical symptoms, this is not the case. Often these younger Veterans experi-ence significant emotional and behav-ioural disorders related to PTSD, which can affect their ability to self-care and make safe decisions, and interfere with interpersonal relationships. Difficulties can be exacerbated by social isolation and loss of contact with family and friends. Although older Veterans who require 24-hour care have access to a range of services specifically designed and funded to meet their needs, Veterans in the younger age groups have very few options when residential care is required.

Veterans' Aged CareThat the Department of Veterans' Affairs ensures and monitors that the Special Needs status of Veterans is recognised consistently by the relevant States' Care Planning Advisory Committees during the annual advertising and allocation of new aged care places and packages.

Rationale:

This submission is raised to ensure that an appropriate number of new places proportionally representative of the vet-eran population be allocated as veteran specific and the Department of Veterans' Affairs monitors and reports this alloca-tion.

home Respite CareThat the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) increase the allocated hours of in-home respite care and provide a more flexible approach to granting of over-night respite as the present arrangements do not permit the Carer to have sufficient time away from the Veteran to be benefi-cial to the Carer's wellbeing.

Rationale:

Currently DVA may pay for up to 196 hours of in-home or 28 days residential respite, or a combination of both, in any one financial year. A Carer who needs a planned and reasonable time away from the house bound Veteran is limited to

Indexation of Military Superannuation Payments

Continue Page 6

The LisTening PosT October 20126

FRoM For those of you who have driven around the Swan River, on the Western side of Dalkeith you would have been on a road named after a World War I Commander, Birdwood Parade, and would have noticed streets in the area also named after War World I Victoria Cross recipients. William Riddell Birdwood was born in India on 13 September 1865 at Kirkee, India and was the second son of Herbert Mills Birdwood, Undersecretary to the Government of Bombay, and Edith Marion Impey, whose father Major E.G. H Impey was the Bombay surgeon with the artil-lery.

As was the norm for British Foreign Service personal serving overseas, the young Birdwood was dispatched to England for his education. After com-pleting his education at Clipton College he then went to Bristol Military College, Sandhurst.

After being commissioned, Birdwood was posted back to India serving in the North – West Frontier when the Boer War (1899-1902) erupted. Birdwood joined the British Commander Lord Kitchener’s Staff.

Upon returning to India in 1908 Birdwood was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal to the Indian Empire (CIE). In 1911 he was promoted to Major General and, in 1912, Birdwood served as Secretary of the Indian Army. At the outbreak of World War І in November 1914, Lord Kitchener, as Secretary of State for War in the British Government, directed that Birdwood be given command for forces raised by the Australian and New Zealand Government for service in Europe.

21 December 1914 saw Birdwood and staff arriving in Egypt at the same time as Australian and New Zealand troops were setting up camp. Birdwood had completed a repost commissioned by Lord Kitchener concerning the naval attack on the Dardanelles. This report convinced Kitchener, as Secretary of State for War in the British Government, that a more force-ful attack on the Peninsula was required. A Mediterranean Expeditionary force was carried under command of Sir Ian Hamilton. Birdwood was by this time a temporary Lieutenant General and was ordered by Hamilton to land north of Gaba lepo on the Agean side of the Peninsula contrary to that which had been suggested by Birdwood in his report. He was ordered to move inland and cut the supply line to the Serlkirn forces in Southern parts of the Peninsula.

The confusion was aggregated by high ridges, deep gullies, dense low scrub and the strong Turkish Defence. When Sir Ian Hamilton’s staff arrived in Egypt in late March 1915 to plan the military operations at Gallipoli, they brought with them a copy of a 1908 map (scale 1:63,360) of Gallipoli. This map was based on a French survey from 1854, as the British and French had not had access to the area since the Crimean War. In Egypt the map was enlarged to a scale of 1:40,000, over three sheets, which was issued to the officers of the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force.

Before the landings at ANZAC Cove and Cape Helles the 1:40,000 maps were supplemented by intelligence acquired through aerial reconnais-sance. The first British aircraft reconnaissance was flown over the Gallipoli Peninsular on 28 March 1915, and flights continued, weather permitting, until the landing on 25 April. Officers, who were issued with copies of the maps used this information to correct errors and keep the Turkish positions and defences up to date.

Upon landing at Gallipoli, the officers found that the maps were not ade-quate for the campaign. Those who tried to use the maps found they had many inaccuracies. A group of New Zealanders attempting to advance from ‘Plugge’s Plateau’ to ‘Russell’s Top’ took over an hour to get there because the map showed the two as being joined and the area easy to traverse. In fact they are joined by a thin, almost impassable “razorback”. So they had to detour down through the scrub into Shrapnel Valley, and then back up the valley’s side to Russell’s Top.

The heights given for many of the hills on the 1:40,000 map were wrong. One hill, named “Hill 971” by the British (its Turkish name is Koja Chemen Tepe), was recorded as being 971 feet [296 metres] high. Later it was found this was incorrect, its actual height being 1,000 feet [305 metres]. Nevertheless, it continued to be called Hill 971 throughout the campaign.

The 1:40,000 map was also used for directing artillery and ships’ fire. Unfortunately, the compass bearing on the map was later found to be two degrees out. So even “accurate” calculations for shelling a target, resulted in shells going astray by that amount. By evening the force was disorganised, Divisional Commanders Bridges and Godley urged Birdwood to consider

Field Marshal Sir William

respite in an aged care facility or other community based setting which provides overnight respite. For Veterans who would benefit from receiving extended non-emer-gency respite care in their own surroundings, options are limited under the Veterans' Home Care Program (VHC).

While VHC provisions do provide for over-night in-home respite care there are time lim-its on respite hours and the duration of each respite episode. While DVA will finance the costs of residential respite for 28 days per financial year, if respite were provided in-house 24 hours a day it would only equate to 8 days per financial year.

To ensure that Carers are provided with suf-ficient time to rest and relax away from the carer role, in-home respite needs to be more flexible. When in-house respite is assessed to be more beneficial to the Veteran, DVA needs to;

a.Allow at least a minimum of two blocks of 96 hours (24 hours per day x 4 days) of in house respite per financial year, without exhausting the annual allocation.

b.Increase the hours of DVA funded in-house respite to accommodate the above changes.

c.Ensure there are appropriate resources/ser-vices to provide overnight respite.

Veterans' Disability Pensions RatesThat all rates for Veterans' Disability Pensions be adjusted by the same increment that was granted at the time for the Single Rate of Service Pension in the 2009 Budget which was by 2.7% increase of MTAWE (Male Total Average Weekly Earnings).

Rationale:

The September 2007 Legislative changes to the indexation arrangements for DVA disability pensions had gone some way to ensuring that the veterans' benefits did not suffer further erosion but the Government's failure to adjust the rate of the veterans dis-ability pensions in line with the adjustments made to other government pensions in the 2009/10 Budget, has meant that the relative value between veterans' disability pensions and the other pensions has diminished.

other Proposals for the 2012/2013 Budget (not in Priority):• Ensure that entitled veterans continue to

receive timely and quality medical treat-ment and hospitalisation from doctors and dentists of their choice in accordance with the objective of the Repatriation Private Patient Scheme (RPPS), and that special-ists and other health service providers be adequately resourced to do this; and that special provision is made for veterans resident in remote areas or areas where access to specialists and other health ser-vice providers is limited.

• Provide the Gold Card as an act of Government generosity for:

a. Australian World War II veterans with-out qualifying service;

b. members of the Nursing Services who served during WWH without quali-fying service; and

c. British and Allied World War II veter-ans who have qualifying service, and who meet Australian residential and Service Pension criteria.

• That all WWII veterans who do not have Qualifying Service but were issued with a Returned from Active Service Badge be

eligible for the Gold Card.

• That Australian Government income sup-port payments made to Allied veterans do not have the disability pension payments made by their parent Government counted for Centrelink income assessment pur-poses.

• That the Legal Aid scale of payment for solicitors and barristers representing Veterans at the AAT and Federal Court be increased to reflect current rates for appearances.

• That the GST concessions currently pro-vided to veterans on the Special Rate Pension be extended to those on EDA.

• Those widows of Special Rate veter-ans be eligible for the Income Support Supplement regardless of age if they meet the income and asset tests.

• That on the death of a veteran, any out-standing claims for allowances be still determined and paid up to the date of death of the veteran.

• That the entitlement to the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Card (Orange Card) be extended to Commonwealth and Allied Veterans and Allied Mariners who are 70 years or older and who served in the Korean, Malayan, Malaysia-Borneo and Vietnam campaigns and any other campaigns post-Vietnam.

• That all Veterans between the ages of 60 and 70 and with Qualifying Service be given annual free medical examinations

• Those Widows of eligible Veterans, who remarried following their husbands death, be eligible to claim a War Widows pen-sion relevant to their first husband's death.

• That section 85(2) of the Veterans' Entitlement Act be amended to include alcohol and/or substance abuse as eligible for treatment at DVA expense.

• That the discrimination between Officers and Other Ranks in respect of studies undertaken as part of rehabilitation train-ing paid for by MCRS be removed.

• That the maximum reimbursable cost of obtaining additional medical evidence for a VRB hearing be increased from $475 to $750.

• That Veterans with a Repatriation Health Card be eligible to seek treatment for eligible conditions from qualified and registered Practioners of natural therapies.

• That the Government formally recognise and foster the critical role that primary carers provide for veterans. This recogni-tion should include an increase in Carers Allowance and, where necessary, provide additional support services, particularly in respect of funding the infrastructure to support the DVA policy of placing more reliance on community health structures. For veterans in receipt of the Extreme Disablement Adjustment, who are still at home, their 'carers' be automatically granted the Carer's Allowance.

• That the funeral benefit available to veter-ans under the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) be increased to $4000.

• Declare that service with BCOF from 21 February 1946 to 30 June 1947 be covered by full repatriation benefits, as provided for in the approved Cabinet Agendum 1241 C of 26 May 1947.

From the President’s PenContinue

The LisTening PosT October 2012 7

with Denis ConnellyThe BUnKeRRiddell Birdwood GCB GCMG GCVO GBEre-embarkation; Birdwood refused, but agreed to place these suggestions to Hamilton. Hamilton refused these suggestions and ordered that the men should “dig, dig until they are safe.”

The impression that Birdwood had made on the ANZACs in Egypt deepened during the seven months on the Peninsular when the attackers became a besieged garrison. Daily the short, lean figure of their commander was seen in the front trenches, chatting with the soldiers, noting with a professional eye what the amateurs had overlooked and giving orders for its amendment, sharing the risks but never the water that was offered because he knew that every drop had been carried up from the beach. He neither smoked nor drank any form of alcohol but refreshed himself by swimming daily off ANZAC Cove — the name he gave the landing place — in spite of enemy fire. Birdwood’s serene courage won the admiration of all. His concern for the soldiers and his fighting spirit became important factors in ANZAC morale. Robert Rhodes James stated that his popularity 'was something of a newspaper myth' and quot-ed an unnamed Australian observer: 'He bored the men and they bored him'. Charles Bean, who saw Birdwood at close quarters throughout the war, did not confirm this view; nor did Birdwood's enthusiastic reception by Australians in London on ANZAC Day 1916, nor his progress around Australia and New Zealand in 1920. Whatever the extent of his popularity, there is no doubt of the respect in which he was held for his courage and his example. In Hamilton's memorable phrase, he was ‘the soul of ANZAC’.

After Bridges died on the 18 May 1915 Birdwood tem-porarily took command of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and was formally appointed on 14 September 1915.

Birdwood was aware of how the Australian soldiers viewed English officers so he appointed Colonel Brindal White from the first Divisional Headquarters as his ‘Chief of Staff.’ This partnership is considered crucial to the develop-ment of the AIF.

When the topic of evacuation was discussed in November, Birdwood was the only Senior Officer who opposed it, but the evacuation command was given to Birdwood, which was successfully completed without loss. After regrouping in Egypt, and now four divisions in strength, Birdwood sailed to France to Command the 1st ANZAC “Corps”. It was March of 1916.

Birdwood’s influence on the AIF was continuing to grow, resisting General Headquarters to take control of the Australian Army administration.

With the forming of the Australia Corps in November 1917 which was formed with five AIF Divisions, Birdwood insisting of this command structure, later he took over com-mand to Lt Gen John Monash. Birdwood was then moved to command of the AIF with support of most Australian Officers despite having some disastrous actions including Bullicourt. However, he continued to be held in a high regard by the majority of Australia Officers though he was actually a British Officer. In 1920, he was made a General in the Australia Military Forces and, five years later, became a Field Marshal in the British Army. He toured Australia and New Zealand in 1920 to wide public assemblies and was given command in 1925. He retired from the military in 1920 and was thwarted in his desire to become Australia’s Governor General where our Prime Minister insisted on the office being held by an Australian.

Field Marshal Sir William Riddell Birdwood GCB GCMG GCVO GBE died in England in 1951 and was buried with full military honours.

References:1.Australian War Memorial, www.awm.gov.au

2.Australian Dictionary of Biography http://adb.anu.edu.au/

Name Suburb NotesALLENBY RD DALKEITH Field-Marshall Edmund Allenby, distinguished WWI commander.

(AE Williams)BESSELL AV NEDLANDS Probably George Bessell-Browne of WWI (AE Williams)

Dedicated 1920 (SRO File 5273/ND1/5) Australian Commander in WWI (Dee Seed)

BIRDWOOD PDE

DALKEITH Area bounded by Wavell and Gallop Roads and Birdwood Parade was subdivided by the Lands Dept as South Nedlands Estate in 1919. The street names were chosen by the Surveyor General and commemorate Western Australian Generals and VCs. From file 4446/19. Field Marshall Sir William Birdwood, distinguished com-mander of ANZACs on Gallipoli in WWI (AE Williams)

BROWNE AV DALKEITH Abbreviated from Bessell-Browne. Name chosen by Surveyor General and commemorates Western Australian Generals and VCs. From file 4446/19. General Bessell-Browne Australian commander of WWI (AE Williams).

CARROLL ST DALKEITH Name chosen by Surveyor General and commemorates Western Australian Generals and VCs. From file 4446/19. Lt William Carroll, VC of WWI. The eastern outlet of Circe Circle. (AE Williams).

FLORENCE RD NEDLANDS Florence Kinninmont was from the prominent Nedlands family. Formerly Johanna St after (Dutch) wife of Colonel John Bruce, mother of Ned Bruce. German names were unfashionable dur-ing WWI so name changed. .(AE Williams) 1924 changed from Johanna Road (SRO File 5273/ND1/5)

HAIG RD DALKEITH Field Marshall Earl Douglas Haig, commander of British forces in France during WWI (AE Williams)

HOBBS AV DALKEITH Name chosen by Surveyor General and commemorates Western Australian Generals and VCs. From file 4446/19. Sir John Talbot Hobbs WA soldier and Chief-of-Staff to Sir John Monash in WWI. Head of architectural firm in Perth – designs included St Georges College. (AE Williams)

HOBBS AV KARRAKATTA Sir John Talbot Hobbs WA soldier and Chief-of-Staff to Sir John Monash in WWI. Head of architectural firm in Perth – designs included St Georges College. (AE Williams)

JOHANNA ST named after ‘Ned’ Bruce’s mother, the Dutch daughter of a judge in Trichinopoly, India – Johanna Jacoba (West Australian 18 Mar 1939) German names were unfashionable during WWI so name changed to Florence St… (AE Williams) 1924 changed to Florence Road (SRO File 5273/ND1/5)

MONASH AV NEDLANDS Sir John Monash was outstanding Australian commander in WWI. (AE Williams)

MURRAY ST DALKEITH Probably General Murray who was succeeded by General Allenby in the Middle East during WWI (AE Williams) Successor to Allenby (Dee Seed)

SADLIER ST DALKEITH Lt Cliff Sadlier won the Victoria Cross in WWI (AE Williams) Name chosen by Surveyor General and commemorates Western Australian Generals and VCs. From file 4446/19. Later Councillor and Chairman of Nedlands 1926 to 1929 (Dee Seed) Framed Photograph Claremont Road Board 1926 – 1927 Local Studies)

STANLEY ST NEDLANDS Stanley Bruce was son of Edward Bruce and was killed in WWI (The Claremont – Nedlands Observer 17 November 1956) May also refer to Stanley Kinninmont, prominent Nedlands family. (AE Williams)

THOMAS ST NEDLANDS Thomas Bruce was the second son of Edward Bruce, the first land-owner of the area, killed in Gallipoli in WWI (AE Williams) (The Claremont – Nedlands Observer 17 November 1956)

THROSSELL ST DALKEITH Lt Hugo Throssell was awarded the Victoria Cross at Gallipoli, WWI (AE Williams)

TYRELL ST NEDLANDS Named after son of Col Edward Bruce (AE Williams) who was killed in WWI (The Claremont – Nedlands Observer 17 November 1956)

VERDUN ST NEDLANDS French town where bitter fighting in WWI (AE Williams)WAVELL RD DALKEITH Field Marshall Archibald Wavell, a distinguished British com-

mander in WWI and WWII in Asia and Later Viceroy in India 1943 to 1947. (Dee Seed) (AE Williams) Previously Dalkeith Rd until Golf course (Dee Seed)

Informal portrait of General Sir William R Birdwood in his office at ANZAC Headquarters.

Portrait of Field Marshal William Riddell Birdwood GCB GCMG GCVO KCB wearing a slouch hat.

The LisTening PosT October 20128Welfare & Pension news June

2012

Rosalind HowatWithWelfare Officer

The PAWS staff are on the move. As from early November 2012 the Pension and Welfare officers will be relocated to ANZAC House, 28 St Georges Terrace, Perth. Office hours remain the same Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm. Contact numbers also remain unchanged.Assistance with Utility and other AccountsWith the warmer spring weather the need to use expen-sive heaters should ease hopefully taking some finan-cial pressure off veterans on a fixed limited income. If you are having difficulties paying high utility or other accounts please contact the Welfare Officer at ANZAC House. Some assistance may be available to eligible Veterans and their dependants experiencing financial hardship. The WA sailors, soldiers & Airmen’s Relief Trust Fund Another area of assistance available to ex-service members and their dependants is the WA Aged Sailors, Soldiers & Airmen’s Relief Fund Trust. The Trustees meet on the second Tuesday of each month to con-sider applications for assistance. Application forms are available from www.rslwahq.org.au follow the link in PAWS. This will take you to information about the Trust Fund and an online application for assistance form. When completed, this form can be lodged directly to the Fund Administrator. For veterans without access to the internet an application form is still available from the Fund Administrator, Ms Rosalind Howat at ANZAC

HOSPITAL VISITORS LIST

Volunteer Contact Number Hospital Visited

Ms Remah Glencorse & Ms Bernadine De Beaux

0447 007 522As Above

Hollywood Private HospitalSt John of GodSir Charles Gairdner Hospital Shenton Park Rehabilitation

Mr John Duffy 9401 5815 or0413780278

Joondalup HospitalGlengarry HospitalOsborne Park Hospital

Mr Mike Harness 9293 1076 or0419 091 708

Kalamunda HospitalArmadale HospitalBentley Hospital

Mr Bill Adamson 9295 5354 Mercy HospitalSwan Districts HospitalSwan Seniors Mental Health Facility

RSL welfare Officer 9287 3707 or0412 009 191

Royal Perth HospitalOthers as required

Rev Canon Ken Barrett 9581 2519 Peel HospitalRSL Care, Mandurah

Mr John Rankin 0438 264 371 Fremantle HospitalAlma Street Hospital

TeXT oVeRFLoW

From the Archives with naomi Lam

On 15 October we will be releasing the next two decades, the 1940s and 1950s issues of The Listening Post online at www.rslcentenary.org.au.

During the 1940s and 1950s, the League focussed on issues to do with repatriation, welfare and the defence of Australia. In terms of the defence of Australia, the RSL in WA joined with the National body in the formation of the Volunteer Defence Corps. Sub-Branches across Western Australia recruited Veterans from WWI and

those not eligible to serve in WWII and formed a Defence Corps that oper-ated across the State.

The Volunteer Defence Corps was formed under the guidance of Army Headquarters who approved the for-mation and assisted in training of the Corps. The VDC was designed to improve the fitness of those who volunteered and educate them in the current military methods of defence and was an important element in the defence of Australia. The VDC in Western Australia was under the lead-ership of Brigadier General A J Bessell

Browne. The League ran the Volunteer Defence Corps for a year before the Department of Defence took over the administration.

The RSL in WA during WWII worked with other organisations such as the YMCA and the Red Cross in the run-ning of programmes for the support of those who were serving. Fundraising events were held to raise funds for the YMCA War Appeal and POW fund. Women’s Auxiliaries across the State actively participated in the fundraising for those who served.

1946 marked the largest member-ship numbers reported for the RSL in Western Australia. Membership was reported as 35,048 with 12 new Sub-Branches opening that year. 1945 membership numbers were quoted at 19,000 which represents a substantial increase for 1946.

Further releases of The Listening Post are scheduled in the upcoming months, it is anticipated that all back issues of the publication will be released by April 2013.

House 9287 3707 or 0412 009 191The Trustees will evaluate all reasonable requests for assistance. Financial grants are restricted to those that are genuinely in need and unable to pay for some items or purpose required to preserve the qual-ity of life. For further information please contact the Fund Administrator on 9287 3707 or mobile 0412 009 191.RSL volunteers regularly visit Veterans in Hospitals, Nursing Homes and Prisons in the metropolitan area.

If you would like to arrange a visitor for your-self or a loved one please refer to the Hospital Visitors List or for Prison visits please contact Mr Terry O’ Neill of RSL Legal Support Group on 9440 6233. To arrange a Nursing Home visit please contact the Welfare Officer at ANZAC House on 9287 3707 or 0412 009 191.

Take care till next timeROSALIND HOWATState Welfare Officer


On Wednesday 20 June 2012 Doug Arrowsmith, John Crago, John Richards and Bill Utting trav-elled to Sydney to join the other 28 delegates going to London for the Dedication of The Bomber Command Memorial.

A few days were spent in getting over jetlag and seeing some of Sydney. T shirts were added to our clothing of 3 pairs of trousers, 6 white shirts, an inflight travel bag and an Akubra hat. Three of our group appeared on Channel 10’s morning show on Friday and George Lamond and I were on Channel 9’s breakfast show on Saturday. My daughter, Judith, arrived late on Saturday to join with me at the Official Farewell Dinner. We were chosen to be at the Governor General’s table, as well as Bill Utting. I sat next to Her Excellency with Steve Flood on the other side of her. The Minister for Veteran Affairs was also at the main table.

The long trip started on Sunday, 24 June - 7 hours to Singapore then 14 hours to London. We were kept going to get into the new time zone. A bus trip to the Imperial War Museum (could have spent half a day there) followed and then to the banks of the Thames where the Battle of Britain and the Royal Air Force Monuments were to be seen.

We had an early wakeup call so that we could be ready to board the bus to Runnymede for the Ceremony at the Air Force Forces Memorial. The Ceremony was very touching - about 8 young Air Force people from Canberra formed the Catafalque Party. The Memorial has a list of 20,402, which includes 1,396 Australian, men and women of the Air Forces of the Commonwealth who have no known graves. Runnymede is quite some distance from London - out in the country with a view of the Thames a few miles away. Then back to London for a welcome at Australia House - nibbles and drinks the Air Vice Marshall presented a medallion to the Veterans. The day ended when 2 of us decided to have a beer at a close by pub (very small one) for old times sake. The number grew to about 12. The warm bitter beer didn’t bring back memories - maybe because of the difference in age, but then, there was no alternative to a warm, watery beer.

Wednesday, 26 June meant we were off to Duxford, which is quite some distance from London. Duxford was a fighter base and is now a museum for a multitude of aircraft including Lancaster, Concord, Sunderland, American Fortress and a few that are air worthy. Caught the spitfire taking off on camera. The major air show is held there. On arrival back in London, we were taken through many streets to view the sights, such as Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, and Piccadilly Circus. Trafalgar Square, the Thames which has a tide of 25 feet.

The main day arrived - Thursday, 27 June. To Green Park at 9.30am where we spent cover an hour in an enclosed marquee enjoy-ing light refreshments and then to our allot-ted seats, which were near the back, but with a good view. The Queen, The Duke, Prince Charles and Camilla and the Duke of Kent attended. The Queen unveiled the statues of the 7 airmen. A flyover by 5 modern air-craft and then the Lancaster which dropped a million light cardboard poppies. Many were collected and brought to the Memorial and handed to us. The Duke of Kent came to our group and spoke a few words to a few of us. The Memorial is magnificent but we could not see it very well, because of the crowd. The day was quite hot. Some Air Force people got a bit sunburnt as they were wearing caps.

Friday, 28 June saw us visit the Air Force

Trip to London June, 2012 - Bomber Command

Museum at Henden. British, American and German air-craft are on show including the massive Vulcan bomber and the famous “S” Lancaster. A Church Service at St. Clement Danes Church followed. This Church is recog-nised as the Royal Air Force Church and it dates back to the 14th Century. It missed the great fire of London in 1666, but was then in poor condition. Christopher Wren rebuilt it, but except for the outer walls it was destroyed in the blitz in 1941 and lay abandoned for over a decade. A world wide appeal in 1958 saw it restored and it was consecrated as the Central Church of the Royal Air Force. At the Service I was asked to read the lesson. This was done from the lectern which was donated by the Australian Air Force. The lectern sits over the badge of 460 Sqd. Badges of all Sqds. are inlaid in the floor of the Church. Those who served on 460 Sqd to had a group photo over the badge. The day finished with a special three course dinner at the Naval and Military Club with suitable speeches.

Saturday, 30 June was a long day. First to Hyde Park

for short Service at the Australian Memorial, then a short walk to Green Park to get close up photos of The Bomber Command Memorial. Then to the Thames for a relaxing boat trip with lunch. Our Leader, Marj. General Mark Kelly gave a farewell speech with Peter Isaacson responding on behalf of the veterans.

The final briefing was at 3.30 and suddenly it was Sunday, 1 July and farewells, because we were split up for the trip home – some for Sydney etc and others for South and West Australia. Each of us was delivered home at about 2.00am. Great consideration was given by all of the support staff and I doubt if we could have managed the trip without their help.

So ended a wonderful occasion under the leadership of Mark (as he wished us to call him). We were fortunate to be chosen in the Official Party and I am sure we were good representatives.

Doug Arrowsmith

The LisTening PosT October 201210VIETNAM 2012

Veterans BBQ DarwinPort Kennedy club member Geoff Trevor-Hunt OAM and his wife Philomena enjoyed a pleasant BBQ lunch with Vietnam and Somali veter-ans at the Vietnam Veterans club house in Darwin. While there he met and

chatted with the Liberal candidate for the seat of Nelson in Darwin Judy Cole and her mother Barbara who came over from Brisbane to help her daughter in the upcoming territory election.

Philomena Trevor-Hunt

L-R: Geoff Trevor-Hunt, Barbara a Vietnam Vet Judy Cole Bon another Vietnam Vet and Jim a younger Somali vet.

Vietnam Veterans Day Service 2012 - Northam

The Northam RSL Sub-Branch held a service on Sunday 12 August 2012 at 11.00am to honour those service personnel who served and those who had died on service in the Vietnam War. The service was held in spotting rain at the Northam War Memorial and well attended.

Northam RSL Treasurer and Vietnam Veteran of 2RAR Geoff Scarterfield gave the address and spoke of the lead up to the battle of Long Tan of 18 August 1966 and described the battle and how the vastly outnumbered Australians from D Company, 6RAR over-came the North Vietnamese sol-diers and won the battle against overwhelming odds with assis-tance from ammunition dropped at treetop level by two RAAF

helicopters from No 9 Squadron, accurate artillery fire from the 105 Field Battery at Nui Dat base some 5 kilometres away and rein-forcements from A Company and later B Company, 6 RAR bought by armoured personnel carriers of 1st APC Squadron.

Wreaths were laid by the Northam RSL, Northam RSL Women's Auxiliary, Vietnam Veterans and the Shire of Northam.

The prayer of Remembrance was read by Mr Ed Freeman-Smith, the bugle was sounded by Mr Luis Lim and the Ode was read by Mr Jim Donovan.

A sausage sizzle was held after the service with members and visitors enjoying the refreshments and comradery, on the day.


Mandurah Murray Vietnam Veterans Group Inc Vietnam Veterans’ Day 18 August 2012Mandurah was blessed with a glo-rious sunny day and approximate-ly 400 veterans and public attend-ed the ceremony which was held at the Mandurah War Memorial.

A large contingent of 5 RAR. veterans bolstered the num-bers this year. The Saluting Officer was Lt Commander Tracy McKeith from HMAS Stirling. The Navy pro-vided the Cenotaph Party, with the local Cadets joining the Flag Party. The parade was led by the WA Police Pipe Band.

President of the MMVVG, Mr Lionel Morris, welcomed everyone to the parade. Keynote speaker Mr Bob

White gave an interesting address which included reference to the famous Battle of Long Tan which occurred on 18 August 1966. Rev David Oxley said the prayers and bugler Mr Tony Schraven sounded the Last Post, which was followed by the haunting song “Battle of Long Tan”.

The ladies choir “Voices in Harmony” sang during the wreath laying, after which the MC, Mr Dave Bryant invit-ed everyone back to the Mandurah RSL for lunch and fellowship. The Parade Commander, Mr Kevin Booth MM, then dismissed the parade.

Helen Dean

Vietnam Veterans Day in Mareeba QueenslandPort Kennedy RSL member Geoff Trevor-Hunt spent Vietnam Veterans Day in Mareeba Queensland with a pre march get together at the Mareeba RSL Club where he caught up with the President Eric Bradford. With the

good weather the service was well attended at the War Memorial in the main street and after it was over there was a very nice lunch in the back area of the club.


The Broome Sub-Branch held their Vietnam Veterans Day Commemorative Service at Bedford Memorial Park at 1100hrs on Saturday 18 August 2012, where the service was attended by approximately 300 people. Included in these figures were representatives of the Shire, Broome Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Norforce and the Naval Cadets.

Norforce provided the Catafalque Party,

whilst the Naval Cadets carried out the flag duties.

Veterans came from far and wide including Manjimup in the South and also the East Coast of Australia.

Following the service approximately 150 people returned to the RSL Club for some snacks and light refreshments, where a good time was had by all.

Rod Hill OAM - Secretary

Broome RSL Sub-Branch Vietnam Veterans Day


VIETNAM 2012

Things have changed,but our commitment to the Perth community hasn’t.

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Whether you are looking for a traditional service or something distinctly individual, Purslowe can call on 100 years of experience to get it right. We give you time to plan, to reflect, to remember the special moments.

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The City of Cockburn RSL conduct-ed a Vietnam Veterans Memorial Service at the RSL Memorial Park and Field of Poppies, Spearwood at 10.30am on Saturday 18 August 2012. The day was picture perfect which saw a crowd in excess of 70 people.

The service commenced with the marchon of the RAN HMAS Stirling Gunnery Catafalque Party. The Acknowledgement of Country was pre-

sented by Petty Officer Sam Sheppard, Indigenous Recruitment Officer WA. The welcome and opening was present-ed by RSL the Sub-Branch President Digger Cleak OAM, this was immedi-ately followed by the Vietnam Veterans address. RAN Vietnam Veteran Digger Cleak OAM spoke on RAN Service and involvement during the war, he was fol-lowed by Mr Peter Tinley AM MLA, accompanied by Army Vietnam Veteran Wally Schwartz Mr Peter Tinley spoke on the Australian Army service and

involvement during the war. The final speaker was RAAF Vietnam Veteran Lester Leaman who spoke on the RAAF service and involvement during the war.

The Prayer and Blessing was presented by Rev Chaplain Robert Graue RANR, followed by the wreath laying which was led by our three Vietnam Veteran speakers, they were followed by eight invited dignitaries. This was followed by the Mayor's Address by Mayor Logan Howlett JP the RSL Ode to the

Fallen was recited by Vietnam Veteran Lawrie Scott.

After the service everyone was invited to the RSL Sub-Branch for a sausage sizzle lunch and drinks, it certainly was a very enjoyable day capped off with great fellowship and RSL Mateship - a day to remember.

Arthur J StantonRSL Vice President (Ceremonial)

City of Cockburn Vietnam Veterans Memorial Service

The LisTening PosT October 201212VIETNAM 2012

We had a small group of 15 Vietnam Veterans this year for the service at 80 Mile Beach. Our service went off well and everyone that was staying in the park attended. Around 260 people attended the service and we held a "sausage sizzle" evening at the completion of the service and this was well attended also. The own-ers of the Caravan Park donated prizes for a raffle and Coral & I donated 2 bottles of fortified wine. We also gave away, to 14 lucky site patrons, donat-ed bottles of wine. While the 260 people were busy feeding themselves we had some musicians, who were staying in the park, entertain which was great-ly appreciated by every-one in attendance. With the increasing number of

Veterans on the road we would like to advise them that the Caravan Park will continue to conduct services related to ANZAC Day and Vietnam Veterans’ Day each year. Anyone wishing to find out more about this can contact Coral & myself by E-mail [email protected] or by phone on 0467571503 or 0427073397.

Ray Miles

80 Mile Beach

Vietnam Veteran’s Day 2012 - City Of Rockingham RSL Sub-Branch Once again, it has been time for the Vietnam Veterans’ Day Commemoration. Due to changes within the Ex-Service organisations in the area, the main Rockingham War Memorial was almost left with-out a service for the first time in 12 years.However, the City of Rockingham

RSL Sub-Branch again stepped forward and, after consultation, agreed that it was important for Veterans and the Community as a whole and that this important part of our military history should not be forgotten.

The President, Secretary and Assistant Secretary put together a short service with the help of

the Committee. Members of the Committee also acted as MC, flag orderlies and in other roles as deemed necessary, the result being a very successful morning.

This year, the attendance by Veterans, Community and Service Personnel was small but enthusias-tic, however as the Service started, members of the public stopped to observe with a great deal of interest also shown by stall holders at the nearby markets.

We again had representatives from HMAS Stirling Cmdr Rudi Overmeyer was guest speaker and Chaplain, Capt Melissa Baker tak-ing the prayers. The Mayor of Rockingham was represented by Deputy Mayor Ms Deb Hamblin.

After the Service, those who attended the Service and a few others returned to the Sub-Branch to socialise and enjoy the good weather that prevailed on the day.

Mark StevensAssistant Secretary

City of Rockingham RSL Sub-Branch


Care Leavers Australian Network (CLAN) is a support, advocacy, research and training group for people brought up in care away from their family as state wards or home children raised in Children’s Homes, orphan-ages, other institutions, or who were placed in “care”.

Many of these people are middle-aged or older but still carry the burden of unsolved issues from the past. CLAN’s aim is to raise community awareness of these issues, and to campaign for government assistance to redress them. CLAN welcomes everyone who has been affected by the “care” system regardless of your background or heri-tage- they are here to help.

If you would like to find out more infor-mation please have a look at this web site. www.clan.org.au

CLAN is a Network for the whole of Australia, their number is: 1800 008 774

We hold some of our gatherings at ANZAC House having a very delicious lunch in a very lovely relaxed setting enjoying each other’s company. Our group are members of CLAN Western Australia; we are made up of different “homies” brought up in institutions from different States. We are able to come together and discuss and talk about our childhood with no judgment of any kind, as we went through life not mentioning it to anyone. Believe me, it does help to talk to others that have been through the same things and having someone to listen to and believe in what you have gone through. If you would like more information feel free to give CLAN a call on 1800 008 774.

Carolyn Frawley, member

Maltese Australian Wreath Laying Ceremony

Care Leavers Australia network

Lunch at ANZAC Club, Perth on Wednesday 1 August

This annual event for Maltese – Australians to celebrate Malta’s most important National Day took place at the beautiful King’s Park Memorial site on Sunday 9 September 2012.

The ceremony manifests the pride all Maltese feel about their homeland, and now as Australians their deep love and respect for their adopted country.

Malta has strong, old ties with Australia through events in both World Wars and

migration for over 100 years. ANZAC Day is commemorated in Malta and a special Monument dedicated to the ANZACs has now been built.

The RSL organisation’s cooperation and professionalism in conducting this solemn ceremony is very much appre-ciated by all members of the Maltese Association of WA.

Judy Pavia - Maltese Association of WA

Mens Health Peer Education ProgramMens Health Peer Education Program (MHPE) has commenced meeting at the RSL East Victoria Park as of 22 August 2012.

They will meet fortnightly with infor-mative sessions from guest speak-ers and organisations. The group has been operating from High Wycombe & Forrestfield for some time and is now branching out to assist more people within the community.

The MHPE was established over 10 years ago for War Veterans and Ex-Servicemen and is a national ini-tiative supported by the Australian

Government and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Health is a subject that is often pushed to the back of the queue by men, particularly in the vet-eran community and this is why it is so important to get men talking about their wellbeing in the same way that most women do.

MHPE and the East Victoria Park RSL Sub-Branch will be holding a sund-owner combined with mens’ health care issues during Health Week and has put aside Friday 26 October 2012 for this occasion. MHPE will be organising a guest speaker for the evening.

Jacquie Liddiard

Kelvin Liddiard ( President East Victoria Park RSL Sub-Branch) and DVA Men's Health Peer Education (MHPE) Volunteers Phill Quartermaine (MHPE EVP Project Leader), Malcolm (Tiny) Small WA MHPE State Representative, John O'Shea (OAM)

Care Leavers Australian Network (CLAN) is a support, advocacy, research and training group for people brought up in care away from their family as state wards or home children raised in Children’s Homes, orphanages, other institu-tions, or who were placed in “care”.

Many of these people are middle-aged or older but still carry the burden of unsolved issues from the past. CLAN’s aim is to raise community awareness of these issues, and to campaign for government assistance to redress them. CLAN welcomes everyone who has been affected by the “care” system regardless of your background or heri-tage- they are here to help.

If you would like to find out more infor-mation please have a look at this web site. www.clan.org.au

CLAN is a Network for the whole of Australia, their number is: 1800 008 774

We hold some of our gatherings at ANZAC House having a very delicious lunch in a very lovely relaxed setting enjoying each other’s company. Our group are members of CLAN Western Australia; we are made up of differ-ent “homies” brought up in institutions from different States. We are able to come together and discuss and talk about our childhood with no judgment of any kind, as we went through life not mentioning it to anyone. Believe me, it does help to talk to others that have been through the same things and having someone to listen to and believe in what you have gone through. If you would like more information feel free to give CLAN a call on 1800 008 774.

Carolyn Frawley, member

Retired Royal Australian navy Members to help Primary school in Thailand

Nonglag Primary School Children (pronounced Nongleck)


Get more out of your everyday bankingDo you ever feel like you could get more out of your everyday banking?

You may not know this, but ADCU has been providing banking services to their members for over 50 years. As a credit union, we pride ourselves on our reputation for being helpful, reliable, professional and most of all for under-standing the needs of our members.

At ADCU we pride ourselves on our ability to meet the needs of our mem-bers. We meet these needs by under-standing our members and designing products and services to suit.

While we focus on the needs of the Defence community including RSL members, we invite all Australians to join and benefit from our outstanding range of products and services.

Over many years, the close relationship shared with the Returned & Services League of Australia has led ADCU to develop of a number of products and services specific to the needs of our RSL sub-branch members.

A range of products designed for our RsL members• Deeming Access Account – with an

interest rate in line with the deeming rates set by the Government each year, the Deeming Access Account helps make it easier to manage your

pension and the interest received on your savings.

• DIY Super Saver Account - spe-cifically designed for self-managed superannuation funds, this flexible account provides you with greater control over the investment of your superannuation funds.

• Special Term Deposit rates for RSL members – we offer special high-interest Term Deposits for RSL sub-branch members.

• A complete range of lending prod-ucts – including home, investment, personal and car loans.

• Low Rate Visa Card- offering a low ongoing interest rate, low annual fee, convenient payment options and an interest free period on purchases.

Full range of competitive insurance products – ADCU offers a range of insurance products with competitive premiums and easy payment options.

To find out more about our products and services visit www.adcu.com.au, call ADCU on 1300 13 23 28, or drop into your local branch.

For more information enquire in branch, visit www.adcu.com.au or call 1300 13 23 28.

Banking services for RSL sub-branch membersProudly supporting the Returned & Services League of Australia

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DIY Super Saver Account

Home, investment, personal and car loans

Low Rate Visa Card with even lower balance transfer rates

Full range of competitive insurance products

A relationship reward program that rewards you

The schedule of fees and charges and terms and conditions should be considered in deciding whether to acquire the products and are available at www.adcu.com.au. Australian Defence Credit Union Limited ABN 48 087 649 741 AFSL No. 237 988, Australian credit licence number 237 988.

As part of the 110th birthday celebrations for Army’s Corps of Royal Australian Engineers, the Royal Australian Engineers (RAE) Foundation is proud to have officially launched its new website at www.raefoundation.org.au on 1 July 2012.

Created to support the cause of Australia’s past and present Sappers (a term used to describe military engineers), the website is a key part of promoting the Foundation’s message and aims.

“The Sapper community in Australia has a proud tra-dition of service to our nation,” said (retired) Colonel John Wertheimer, Chairman of the RAE Foundation. “The Foundation seeks to honour that tradition while looking to serve the interests of current and future Sappers and their families.”

The RAE Foundation is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation with five objectives:

• assist with the welfare of RAE personnel and their dependants

• support projects that enhance the image of the RAE Corps

• maintain Australia's military engineering heritage

• conduct research and produce histories of Australian military engineering

• encourage excellence in military engineering.

“The Royal Australian Engineers have served Australia since 1902, performing tasks such as designing and building roads and bridges, demolishing obstacles and clearing landmines or other explosive hazards,” said John Wertheimer. “In this latter task, particularly in recent deployments to Afghanistan, casualties suffered by RAE personnel have regrettably led to an expanded role for the RAE Foundation. Noting the ethos of our first objective, recent operations have highlighted the need for support such as ours,” he said.

“Our suite of programs includes welfare support pro-grams for soldiers who are injured and the families of those killed while serving. We also work with industry to find employment opportunities for soldiers who can no longer serve, but still have valuable skills for employers. We see this as a hand-up for the soldier, rather than a hand-out,” said John Wertheimer.

“Sappers are a tight-knit community and always have been. The Foundation is one way for those of us who have served to give something back to the Corps, and to those serving soldiers who are writing its history today.”

Media Contact: Major Matt Prior, RAECommunications Manager, RAE Foundation

Tel: (02) 6266 8519 / 0477 319 470 Email: [email protected]

Royal Australian Engineers Foundation Website

Our condolences go to the BARRINGTON family on the recent passing of our friend & colleague. A member of the Scarborough Sub-Branch since 1989, State Executive for many years and the State War Memorial Warden for 2008. Ken passed away peacefully in Hollywood Private Hospital in the early hours of 10 Oct. Husband of Melita, father of Vicki, Kenneth, Bruce and Christopher and grandfather to 15 grandchildren. He will be sorely missed by the RSL community. Ken had a distin-guished Army career.

VALe KenneTh ViCToR BARRingTon6 Dec 33 – 10 Oct 12

OFFICIAL LAUNCH:


The essential mobility scooter buying guide

After plenty of thinking and talking with family and friends, you’ve decided the time is right to invest in a mobility scooter. So, where do you start in choosing a scooter that is best for your needs?

Your choice really comes down to where you want to use your scooter, the distances you want to travel on your scooter and matching you size to the size and performance capabilities of the scooter. For example, if you plan to spend a lot of time going on longer trips then you will need a completely different scooter from someone who plans to only use their scooter in their home and zipping down to the local shops at the end of the street.

Damian Ryan, a Senior Healthcare Consultant from Bluesky Healthcare has provided some answers to questions for you to think about and how their answers might affect your scooter choice:

Indoor or outdoor? If you mainly want to use your scooter within your home and within a shopping centre then size, turning circle and manoeuvrability will be the top priorities. A compact 4-wheel model might be the best choice for you.

If you intend to do a lot of outdoor travel including over varied terrain such as uneven footpaths, gravel, grassed areas and hills, then a larger 4-wheel model will provide more power and reliability.

If you will be covering rough terrain or suffer from back pain then a scooter with shock absorbers and suspension will be what you need to safely cope with uneven terrain and provide a more comfortable ride.

If you live in a very hilly area or if you are a bigger person then a scooter with a 4 pole motor is a must to ensure the delivery of the extra power you will need and to prevent the motor from overheating and short term burn out.

How fast and how far? You can’t get too carried away here; scooter drivers do need to stick to a maximum speed of 10 km/h on footpaths, shared paths and roads. But if you need to navigate steep hills or travel longer distances, then you will generally want a scooter with a more powerful motor and a larger batter capacity. Be sure to ask how many kilometres you will get out of each battery charge and how long the battery will take to charge.

If you will mainly be taking shorter trips to the local shops and visiting neighbours, you may be happy with a model with a lower maximum speed and a shorter battery life.

Night-time? If you plan to be out and about on your scooter any time after the street lights go on, then the scooter must have front and rear lights and indicators.

How heavy? What kind of weight will your scooter need to carry? This is known as the scooter’s ‘load capacity’. If you are a larger person, you will need a more robust, heavy-duty model.

What’s the next step?After thinking about when, where and how you want to use your scooter, the next step is talking to someone who will assess your needs and help you decide exactly which scooter is best suited to you. Make sure that you trial the scooter at your own home where you will use it everyday not in or around a retail shop you you will never ride the scooter.

..

Menu

Traditional Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding served with seasonal vegetables

Sticky Date Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce

Tea / Coffee & After Dinner Mints ~

Dress: Smart Casual, Miniature Medals

Gallipoli Room, ANZAC House 28 St Georges Terrace, Perth

RSVP to Caitlin by Friday, 19 October 2012

9287 3701 or [email protected]

Cost - $45.00

Only 120 places available – tickets issued on a first come basis

RSVP: 19 October 2012 Please fill in Ticket Application Form and post with your cheque or money order to:

Poppy Day Luncheon PO Box 3023

EAST PERTH WA 6892

(Please make cheques to RSL WA)

2012 Remembrance Day Luncheon Application for ticketsI _____________________________________ wish to apply for _____ ticket(s) at $45.00 to the 2012 Remembrance Day Luncheon.

Total money enclosed: $__________ Ph: _________________________

Address: ________________________________________________________________

Name of Guest/s: __________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Remembrance Day Luncheon Friday 9 November 2012, 12.30 pm

Dress: Smart Casual, Medals


50th Anniversary of Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) in the Vietnam WarIn May 1962 the Australian Government announced the commit-ment of a group of Australian Army Officers, Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned officers to be employed with the Army Republic of South Vietnam (ARVN) initially in training roles. This unit was called the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) and was generally referred to as 'The Team'. It deployed on 31 July 1962, the first Australian Military Unit to serve in South Vietnam and served for 10 years, four months and eighteen days - the longest continuous operational service of any Australian unit in South Vietnam.

Initially deployed to the northern prov-inces of South Vietnam over the ten years its members served in all four Military Regions of South Vietnam

from the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) in the North, to the Central Highlands and to the Mekong Delta in the South. Members of the Team worked in pairs or in small teams as advisors, commanders and trainers in ARVN Infantry and Armoured Regimental, Battalion, Company and Platoon units as well as training and commanding Montagnards in Mobile Strike Forces (MSF). Other members were involved in such diverse units like, Province Reconnaissance Units (PRU), Mobile Advisory Training Teams (MATT), Night Operation Advisory Teams (NOAT), Village Defence Advisory Teams (VDAT), Regional and Popular Forces (RF/PF) and in 1970 some members of the Team were involved training Cambodian Army units. The AATTV was withdrawn from South Vietnam on 18 December 1972 and taken off the Order of Battle of the

Australian Army in 1973. The Team was both elite and unique with its members being specially selected. It was small and for its size, one of the most highly decorated units in the Australian Army and just because of its name it is unlikely ever to be raised again.

The strength of the Team initially of 30 members in 1962 increased to 83 in 1964, 100 in 1965 and 227 in 1970. Over the 10 years 992 Australians and 10 members of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment served with the Team. During its service 33 mem-bers were killed in action (KIA) and 122 were wounded in action (WIA), four individual members were awarded the Victoria Cross (VC) for Valour and other members received 109 individual Imperial awards, 338 United States awards, 376 Republic of South Vietnam

awards and 45 Cambodian awards. The AATTV as a unit was awarded the United States Army Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Citation.

The Former members of AATTV assembled at the spiritual home of the Team at the former Jungle Training Centre, Canungra Queensland, for the 50th Anniversary of the Australian Government’s commitment to the Vietnam War.

The Memorial Service was conducted at The 'Can Nha Co Van Uc Doi Loi' Home of the Australian Advisor, Australian Army Training Team Vietnam on Saturday, 28 July 2012.

The Can Nha Co Van Uc Dai Loi is Vietnamese for, Home of the Australian

The Can Nha Co Van Uc Dai Loi showing part of VIP guests which overlooks the timber grove.

Entrance to AATTV Memorial Grove, Canungra.Poem by Brig George Mansford, former Team member. The AATTV plaque at the entrance of the Memorial Grove.


50th Anniversary of Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) in the Vietnam War

Advisor, and was officially unveiled and dedicated in 1996, it is a small Asian style building which has the names of all who served in the Team engraved on the inside wall, with the unit badge and motto in the centre. A head and shoulder bust of the first Commanding Officer of the Team, Colonel FP (Ted) Serong DSO OBE is at the entrance to the Can Nha. The building is simple in design and it is where visitors can spend time in peace-ful reflection.

Although the AATTV never served in Australia, Canungra Jungle Training Centre is where all members posted to AATTV attended a special course to train and assess their suitability for service in AATTV.

The Memorial Grove consists of rows of rainforest hardwood trees represent-

ing each member of the Team, a 'Row of Memory' in honour of the Team members KIA and a special row to honour the four members of the Team who were awarded the Victoria Cross (VC) for Valour.

The Memorial Service to commem-orate the 50th Anniversary of the formation of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam was con-ducted with the support of the Army Band Enoggera, Padre Brenton Fry and 126th Army Cadet Unit who provided the 'Catafalque Party' and 'Held Ground'. The Welcome Address was given by Colonel Darryl Groves Commander Land Warfare Centre; the Commemorative Address was given by Major General John Hartley AO (Retd) National President of AATTV Association. Wreaths were laid by Major General Michael Jeffery AC AO

(Mil) CVO MC (Retd) National Patron of AATTV Association, General David Hurley AC DSC Chief of the Defence Force, Sergeant Major Chris Ninkovich United States Army, Lieutenant Colonel Joe Dowrick New Zealand Army, Mr De Le National Vice President Army of the Republic Vietnam Association, Ms Alison Stanley Deputy Commissioner Department of Veterans' Affairs and Mr John Smith OAM, President of Queensland Vietnam Veterans' Association and Family and Friends of the Team. Mr Peter Conway AATTV Association Queensland read The Roll of Honour of our fallen mates and Mr Keith Payne VC OAM recited the Ode. The Master of Ceremonies was Colonel Kerry Gallagher AM (Retd).

At the completion of the Memorial Service 183 former Team Members, their families and Guests were catered

for to a picnic luncheon under the Trees where we once trained for opera-tional service in South Vietnam many years before. The passage of time has thinned the ranks taking into consider-ation that many of the members were veterans of the campaigns of WW2, Korean War, Malayan Emergency and Confrontation in Borneo. That evening the 50th Anniversary Team Dinner was held at the Brisbane Convention Centre for 477 guests, family and members of the Team.

Gary SutherlandReferences: The Team Australian Advisors in Vietnam 1962-1972 by

Ian McNeil.Memorial Service Conducted on

Saturday 28 July 2012 Canungra.

Former Team members at Memorial Service.

Entrance to Memorial Grove B1.Row of Memory for 33 KIA's AATTV.Entrance to AATTV Memorial Grove, Canungra.

Memorial Grove members tree directory.


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Borneo Exhibition GroupRuss EwinMr Russ Ewin, aged 93, for-mer Australian POW Officer, one of the last two Officers and total of four Sandakan POWs still alive. Russ tested out the only working replica of the ‘secret radio’ built in the Sandakan Mile POW Camp. The item was constructed by a local Merredin radio buff, John Tuppen, as close to actual radio specifications, through information given by Lt Rod Wells, one of the surviving officers who assisted in the construction in 1943.

The refurbished Pte Tom Starcevich WA VC Winner Monument in Beaufort, Sabah, East Malaysia. Borneo Exhibition Group Inc. through the acquisition of funds through Department of Veterans’ Affairs initiated the repair and repair of the original site built by the locals in the late 1950's. We will be highlighting Tom's heroism in Borneo through the Exhibition display whilst in Esperance.

Pte Tom Starcevich VC Monument

The life sized depiction of the Death Marches painted by Mrs Non Meston, daughter of WA POW Pte Alec CADGWAN, who died on the second march in June 1945.

Life Sized Depiction of the Death Marches


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The LisTening PosT October 201220Sub-Branch News

The City of Cockburn RSL Sub-Branch con-ducted a Korean War Veterans' Memorial Service on Friday 27 July 2012 at the Memorial Hall Monument, Hamilton Hill.The service opened with the march on of the RAN HMAS Warramunga Catafalque Party, and then Sub-Branch President Digger Cleak OAM acknowledged and wel-comed all in attendance. The opening was followed by the Acknowledgement of Country, presented by Petty Officer Sam Sheppard, Indigenous Recruitment Officer WA and followed by an Indigenous Spirit Dance performed by members of the HALO Group.

The Korean War Defence Address was given by Commander Michael Turner, Commanding Officer, HMAS Warramunga, about RAN service during the Korean War. It was interesting to note that HMAS Warramunga 1 served in Korea waters during the War. He was followed by Brigadier Stephen Cain, Australian Army Headquarters, who spoke on Australian Army service dur-ing the Korean War. The final defence address was from Wing Commander David Turner, RAAF Base Pearce who spoke on RAAF involvement during the Korean War.

The wreath laying was led by RSL

Members and Korean War Veterans Les Pratt and Jim Lee Wreaths were then laid by Defence Officers followed by the Mayor Logan Howlett, Ms Melissa Parke MP, Mr Peter Tinley AM MLA and Ms Gabby Ryan Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Prior to closure, Korean War Veterans Les Pratt and Jim Lee were called for-ward to receive awards provided by Mr Michael Poh, Korean Association of WA. MC Mr Arthur Stanton read out details of the awards, much to the surprise of all, the awards were then pre-sented by RSL WA State President Mr Bill Gaynor OAM and RSL Sub-Branch President Digger Cleak OAM.

After the service approximately eighty people returned to the Sub-Branch for a light lunch and refreshments. We received a lot of accolades for our first Korean War Veterans Memorial Service.

Arthur J StantonRSL Vice President (Ceremonial)

City of Cockburn RSL - Korean War Veterans' Memorial Service

RSL Members and Korean War Veterans Les Pratt and Jim Lee receiving awards from Sub-branch President Digger Cleak and RSL WA State President Bill Gaynor.

Barbara Hartney was inducted into Perth Legacy at the Pinjarra RSL Sub-Branch on Friday, 3 August 2012 by Perth Legacy President John Sargeant in the presence of fellow RSL Members. Fifteen members from Legacy were made welcome at the Pinjarra RSL for the induction of Barbara into the Perth Legacy Organisation. Barbara is a member of the Pinjarra Sub-Branch and serves on the RSL Committee and a member of the Women’s Auxiliary.

Sue O'Donnell

Pinjarra - Induction to Legacy

Borneo Exhibition Group Inc (BEG) WA, 6 to 26 August 2012

Our Sub-Branch in conjunction with BEG presented in the Local Cannery Art Gallery the acclaimed WW2 exhibition, Borneo 1942–45, Sandakan. Also shown were “The Honor Rolls” of the 2,485 Australian and British POW’s who died on the ‘Death Marches’.

Local soldier Tom Starcevich won his Victoria Cross during this period. Two of our Sub-Branch members, Joe Rose and Brian Clayton, laid a wreath at the base of a replica Memorial of ‘Gunner’ Cleary who died after being beaten and abused for 11 days by his Japanese captors for trying to escape.

Our thanks to the organisers of this exhibition Ryan Rowland, City of Perth; and Reece Chattillon, President Narrogin RSL Sub-Branches.

Ray Gray - Publicity - Esperance

Esperance RSL Sub-Branch

72 Sub-Branch members and friends sat downto a 5-course dinner on 18th August. Special guests were Mr Bill Gaynor State RSL President; Dennis Jenson MP and Thanh Van Nguyen, President Republic of Vietnam Veterans Association. The Highlight of the evening was the rousing display of music from the WA Swan Regiment Drum Corps and Pipes. It was first class entertainment from school age Army Cadets led by Captain Peter Jones OAM. Riverton RSL President Bill Collidge

spoke of the importance and responsibility that the Sub-Branch has to resume its standards and values in provid-ing the ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day and now a Vietnam dinner. He later presented a donation for the Cadets.

Dr Tony Thatcher

Riverton RSL Sub-Branch Inaugural Vietnam Dinner

Capt (AAC) Vance Bond and Mr To Ha of the republic of Vietnam Veterans Association.

On 14 July Donna Prytulak held an information day for the Sub-Branches in her region at the Northam Memorial Hall. Most Sub-Branches were repre-sented which showed that something like this is needed in the country regions.

Before the day started, RSL State President, Mr Gaynor presented Tammin Sub-Branch a copy of their Charter which Lorraine Packmen accepted on behalf of the Sub-Branch. She said that she was very honoured to able to be accept the copy as the original had disap-peared several years ago.

The day was well supported by Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) with Roger Bowler, Assistant Director Veterans Access Network, giving a pre-sentation of different aspects of DVA and giving the Sub-Branches information regarding DVA’s new MyAccount ser-vice online. This was very informative and Roger hoped that the Sub-Branches could go back and tell their members about this new service. The website is

www.myaccount.dva.gov.au,take a look.

Also present on the day were RSL President Bill Gaynor, Vice President Denis Connelly and CEO/State Secretary Philip Orchard. Each gentleman gave a brief outlook to the RSL WA, the future of the RSL, membership, The Listening Post, Veteran Affairs, the 100 year Commemoration Services in Albany and although the Avon Region most Sub-Branches have their own important part in the lead up to 2015. Getting youth involved with the RSL was agreed to be a part of the future.

After some questions and more discus-sion the group enjoyed a warm hearty country meal supplied by the Northam Sub-Branch Women’s Auxiliary headed by Mrs Grecian Withnell with help from Jodie Prytulak.

All agreed it was a worthy day and are all looking forward to next year.

Donna Prytulak

Information Day at the Northam Memorial Hall

Information Day held at the Northam Memorial Hall by Avon Region State Executive Representative Donna Prytulak: representatives from Northam, Bakers Hill, Quairading, Tammin and Toodyay Sub-Branches along with Donna Prytulak, William Gaynor OAM RFD; RSL WA State President, Denis Connelly; RSL WA Vice President and Philip Orchard; RSL WA State Secretary/CEO.


Highgate Sub-Branch has a long tradition of honouring its older members - and every July holds a Luncheon to mark those who are in their 80th and 90th year, to help them celebrate these milestones.

These annual events are known as the "OBE" Luncheons - most readers would guess the acronym: ie "Over

Bl---- Eighty"! They are always marked with a brief profile of each member (and a humorous anecdote from their service days) a large cake celebrated and a ceremonial cutting of the cake with a sword and considerable panache.

Due to illness etc., some "Birthday Boys" were, unable to attend. Their names, pro-files and anecdotes were read out in their absence. Doug Collins (90), John Newton (90), Brian Walley (90), Alan Raphael (90), Robert Kirk (90), and Norm Manners (80) were all absent.

Margot Harness

Highgate's "Birthday Boys' Bash" 2012

L to R (Standing): John Harper-Nelson (90), John Bush (80), John Hately (90), Mick Michael (90), Ray Doust (80), Philip Zeid (90), Malcolm Weatherhead (80), Richard Bird (80) (Seated) Alan Saville, Jack McLaren - both 90.

State RSL President Bill Gaynor paid tribute to the Serpentine-Jarrahdale RSL Sub Branch last month at a housewarming for its South Western Highway op shop and headquarters.

Mr Gaynor, a former Mundijong resident and teacher, said it was a milestone the group now had the keys and ownership of the building it had been renting for several years.

“The Serpentine Jarrahdale RSL has been rolling along since 1995 and in it we have a Sub-Branch that has been building to get itself together, find itself a home and fund a portion of that home,” he said.

“I am sure from here it will grow as a gathering place for not only veterans but also for community members.”

Members of the Greenham family, who sold the house to the RSL, were at the housewarming.

Pam and Ron Greenham built the house almost 60 years ago.

“Years of wonderful memories includ-ed five children and 12 grandchildren,” Barry Greenham said.

“Through all this Pam’s chocolate cake

and Ron’s barbecues were at the heart of hundreds of family gatherings.

“They would both be so proud this house is now a focal point in Byford as the base for the RSL.”

Serpentine Jarrahdale RSL president Ric Giblett was pleased the State RSL now had the title deeds to the building.

“It has secured the tenure in the shire which has been very tenuous,” he said.

“We didn’t know where we would go, we had no home but we were continuously looking and we initiated that ourselves.”

“It is satisfying to know that generations, should they want to take up the cause of helping others in the shire, have a base from which to work.”

Mr Giblett said the Serpentine Jarrahdale Sub-Branch did not restrict itself to help-ing ex-service people and in the last three years had donated more than $10,000 to schools and community groups within the shire.

“We are proud of the fact that the money we generate in the Shire stays here and not into a pot that gets distributed around the state,” he said.

By Robyn Molloy* Reprinted with the permission of Examiner

Newspapers editor Robyn Molloy.

Serpentine-Jarrahdale Home is here to stay

Greenham family members including Judith Youngs, Helen Greenham, Carol Harcourt, RSL State Executive member Peter Fardon, Tania Everett, RSL State President Bill Gaynor, Barry Greenham and Serpentine- Jarrahdale President Ric Giblett. Photograph – Robyn Molloy.

The East Victoria Park RSL Sub-Branch has the honour of having the Gurney Club as part of our establishment. This is in honour of Arthur Stanley Gurney VC killed in the World War II at Tel El Eisa on 22 July 1942.

The 70th Anniversary of the awarding of the Victoria Cross (posthumously) to Arthur Stanley Gurney was on Sunday 22 July 2012 and a memorial service and formal dinner was held in his honour. His niece, Mrs Val Perkins was in attendance for the event along with Brigadier Geoff Hand and his wife Marie; Mr Steve Irons MP, Federal Member for Swan and his wife Cheryl and His Worship The Mayor of Town of Victoria Park Trevor Vaughan who joined members of the Sub-Branch with their partners for a most enjoyable evening.

Jacquie Liddiard

East Victoria Park - 70th Anniversary Gurney Dinner

Darling Range held its AGM on Friday, 29 September and was delighted to have the State President of the Western Australian RSL Branch, Bill Gaynor, as their guest for the AGM and the follow-ing monthly meeting. Mr Gaynor took the chair for the elec-tion of the office bearers and the Past President, Frederick Smith was re elect-ed, as were Wayne Loughrey as Snr Vice President, Keith Stitt as Jnr Vice-President, Doug Carpenter as Secretary/Membership Officer, Christina Esschert as Treasurer and Peter Cowley as Chaplain and Welfare Officer. Wardens and Committee members were also elected or re elected.

Mr Gaynor discussed the plans for the Centenary of ANZAC Day commemo-rations which will commence in 2015 with main events being in Albany where the thousands of Australian and New Zealand soldiers left on the armada of fleets bound for Gallipoli.

He also told the meeting that there had been a big increase in membership of

the RSL nationally, with many of the current serving defence members join-ing the RSL throughout the country, and in WA in particular. He encouraged all service men and women who had or are still serving in our defence forces to look up their local Sub Branches and join to enjoy the fellowship and social activities such that Darling Range RSL offers.

Answering questions from members regarding a possible name change to Kalamunda- Darling Range RSL Sub Branch, Mr Gaynor said that it had been before the executive of the State RSL and it was found through a search of RSL WA archives that the Sub Branch was originally called the Kalamunda RSL Sub Branch. It was decided to put this to the next meeting to further discuss the option to change the Sub Branch name back to Kalamunda which would give the Sub Branch a local iden-tity and align itself more to the local shire area and State electorate.

Margot Harness. Wayne Loughrey, Snr Vice President, thanked Mr Gaynor for his attendance and presenting a future outlook for the Sub Branch.

Darling Range - AGM

Pictured (left to right): Darling Range Snr Vice President, Wayne Loughrey, Vietnam Veteran, Bill Gilders, RSL State President, Bill Gaynor, Vietnam Veteran, Colin Jobling, Sub Branch Secretary, Doug Carpenter

Sub-Branch News


Cottesloe 2012 Frederick Bell VC Memorial LectureCottesloe RSL Sub-Branch presents the 2012 Frederick Bell VC Memorial Lecture at Cottesloe War Memorial Hall and Civic Centre 109 Broome St Cottesloe.Friday 9 November 6pm for a 6.30 start. Admission Free Donations appreciated

RSVP for catering by Friday 2 November to Secretary Neville Green 93045182, email: [email protected]

speaker Profile: Rob o’Connor Rob O’Connor QC is a retired barrister (with a current practis-ing certificate). He is a Fellow of CPA Australia and gradu-ated with Bachelor of Laws (First Class Honours) from the Australian National University ANU , Canberra. He was an offi-cer of the Australian Taxation Office in Perth and Canberra for 15 years, and then practised as a lawyer in Perth for 32 years, including 25 years at Francis Burt Chambers specialising in Commonwealth and State taxa-tion, 20 years of which were as a Queen’s Counsel.

He is a past State President of CPA Australia; past National Councillor, past State Chairman and an Honorary Life Member of the Tax Institute; past member of the Tax Agents Board of WA; past Deputy Chairman of the Government House Foundation; past member of the Board of the Constitutional Centre of WA; past member of the Board of the WACA; past President of the Rotary Club of Dalkeith; and past convenor of the UK study grants committee of the Australia-Britain Society.

He is currently a member of the Legal Practice Board; the Board of the South Perth Hospital; the management committees of the Friends of Battye Library, the Nelson Society of Australia and the WA Explorers Diaries Project; the State Records Advisory Committee; WACA Honorary Legal Counsel; his-torical societies; an Officer of the Order of St Lazarus of Jerusalem; and various com-munity bodies. He is an affiliate member of Cottesloe RSL Sub-Branch and of the Military History Society of WA. His interest in McCarthy VC arose from the fact that he also was born at York and was baptised in the same York church as McCarthy, and the lack of general knowledge in WA of McCarthy and his brave deeds. He has been research-ing McCarthy for the past two years.

About Lt. Lawrence Dominic McCarthy VC, C De gYork-born World War I hero Lt. Lawrence Dominic McCarthy was awarded the Victoria Cross, two Croix de Guerre (one avec palme), was mentioned in des-patches twice, and was wound-ed twice. His fellow-soldiers and the British Press described his VC as a “Super VC” and Australia’s official war corre-spondent Charles Bean paid this accolade: an achievement which, next to that of Lt. Jacka at Pozieres, was perhaps the most effective feat of individual fighting in the history of the AIF.”

However, even in his home State of Western Australia, very few

people are aware of McCarthy’s brave deeds.

McCarthy was born in York in 1892. His mother died aged 28, fours days before his 4th birth-day and McCarthy and his two elder brothers were immediately placed in a Subiaco orphan-age and in 1901 were among the first 82 boys at the new Clontarf Boys’ Town. McCarthy remained at Clontarf until just before his 14th birthday

After jobs as a farm apprentice and timber mill contractor (at Mt Helena) where McCarthy lost some fingers in a mill acci-dent, McCarthy enlisted in the AIF at age 22 in September 1914. He trained at Blackboy Hill WA and Broadmeadows Victoria. He sailed as a mem-ber of the 16th Battalion from Melbourne in December 1914, and left Australia from Albany on New Year’s Eve 1914.

After a few months in Egypt, McCarthy was one of the ANZACs who landed at Gallipoli on the first ANZAC Day. Apart from a period in England recuperating after being wounded, McCarthy was at Gallipoli from the first day until the last day (the evacuation on 20 December).

He served in France and was again wounded and convalesced in England.

For his bravery at Beaumetz in France, McCarthy was awarded the Croix de Guerre avec palme.

On 23 August 1918 McCarthy was awarded a Victoria Cross and a second Croix de Guerre for his extraordinary gallantry and valour at Madame Wood

near Vermandovillers, France. Single-handedly, McCarthy killed 20 Germans and captured 5 machine guns, 50 prisoners and 700 yards of German trench.

After the war, McCarthy mar-ried Englishwoman Florence (“Polly”) Minnie Norville in England. They sailed separate-ly to WA and lived in Perth. McCarthy became a prominent citizen of Perth, was pre-select-ed to contest a seat in the WA Parliament, needed further hos-pitalisation for his war-caused injuries, was employed by the RSL, and in controversial cir-cumstances had to resign from the RSL State Executive, was dismissed as an RSL employee, and had to face an expulsion motion from the RSL.

Unemployed, in 1927 McCarthy with his wife and young son moved permanently to Melbourne where McCarthy became a commercial traveller and later a city building care-taker. Sadly, their son Lawrence Junior was killed on active ser-vice in Bougainville shortly before the end of World War II in 1945.

Some of McCarthy’s WA rela-tives caught up with him on trips to Melbourne, and McCarthy made some visits back to Perth to see his brothers and their families; he also visited Clontarf on these visits and was a big hit when he addressed the boys there. He and Polly went to England in 1956 to attend cel-ebrations commemorating the centenary of the Victoria Cross, and to Gallipoli in 1965 on the 50th anniversary of the ANZAC Day landing.

McCarthy died at age 83 in 1975 in Melbourne. Polly lived on until 1996 when she died at the grand old age of 103 years, 10 months.

At the time of Lawrence Junior’s death in 1945, he was engaged to Nancy, who some years later married another man Jan Bastiaan. Nancy and Jan had a son named Ross in 1951. Ross and McCarthy became close friends. McCarthy arranged Ross’s enrolment at Wesley College, Melbourne (where Lawrence junior had attended), generously assisted in paying Ross’s college fees and instilled in Ross a strong and lasting knowledge and interest in Australian war history. Dr Ross Bastiaan is now a lead-ing Melbourne periodontist, has been Deputy Chairman of the Australian War Memorial, Canberra since 2003, was guide to Prime Minister John Howard on his trip to Gallipoli and the Somme in 2000 and guide to the Victorian Premier’s trip to the war sites in Singapore and Japan in 2006, and has cre-ated 200 sculptures and plaques which have been erected at places around the world where McCarthy and Australian troops have been engaged in com-bat, for which Ross has been made a Member of the Order of Australia.

Rob O’Connor’s address will also discuss the personal side of McCarthy and what moti-vated him to perform his incred-ible acts of gallantry and valour. At the end of the address, you should have a much great-er knowledge of the life of McCarthy VC.

Sub-Branch News

Annual ANZAC Club Springtime Tea Dance 2012

Wednesday, 7 November 2012 from 10am to 2pm Entertainment to be provided by Bill Louwen & The Sapphires!

Morning Tea, Dancing, Lunch and Bar Services at the usual fantastic value of

the ANZAC Club.

Reserve your table or group for this fantastic morning of memories

Ph: ANZAC Club on 9287 2714

The LiSTeNiNg POST October 2009 23The LisTening PosT October 2012 23Sub-Branch News

Members Dine-In Night 2012 City Of Rockingham RSL Sub-Branch Members Dine-In Night 2012 City Of Rockingham RSL Sub-Branch The City of Rockingham RSL Sub-Branch held its Annual Members Dine-In Night on Saturday 28 July 2012. Attending were State President, Mr Bill Gaynor OAM RFD and Mrs Joan Gaynor, President of the Rockingham RSL Sub-Branch Mr Robert Gillmore and Mrs Deborah Gillmore, Commanding Officer of HMAS Stirling Capt. Brett Wolski, the Hon. Gary Gray AO, OIC TS ANZAC Naval Cadet Unit Lt. Ray Cron and Mrs Michelle Cron, representing the 59 Army Cadet Unit were Capt. Michael and Mrs Deborah Richards with Councillor Allan Hill and Mrs Teresa Hill representing the City of Rockingham Council.

As the guests arrived, there was a photo shoot followed by lively conversation prior to the Dinner while guests mingled and conversed with each other. The stu-dent band from Comet Bay College had already struck up the music and the night was off in full swing.

After the guests were all seated, the Club Manager, Mr Barry Cole said Grace and the Naval Cadets from the TS ANZAC Naval Cadet Unit served the first course. As the evening progressed and the Dinner was over, the formal part of the eve-ning commenced with Life Member Mr Robert Gilmour presenting the Toast to the RSL. Mr Mark Stevens took the Loyal Toast to Members and Company, with Mr Bob Cooper toasting absent friends.

In his address, Capt. Wolski spoke of the close ties between the Sub-Branch and HMAS Stirling. Future expansion of HMAS Stirling was touched on as well as the new residential units being completed on the base for single per-sonnel. Capt. Wolski announced that he had received a promotion and would be going to Canberra with the warmer weather and his time in Rockingham being missed. He also spoke at some length regarding the important role that women were playing in the modern Navy. He then announced that the new Commanding Officer of HMAS Stirling would be Capt. Angela Bond who would be taking up her new position in January 2013. One for the ladies!!!

The inclusion of our young people at these events is always a pleasure. The Naval Cadets fulfilling their role with the serving of the Dinner and the students from Comet Bay College, with their band and wonderful vocal soloists, truly inspiring.

The new team in the kitchen, Mr Frank Weber and Ms Sue Kent, delighted everyone with the beautiful fine dining meal, finishing it off with cheese and fruit platters, tea and coffee. This bought to a close another very successful Dine-In Night.

Wendy Gray Honorary SecretaryCity of Rockingham RSL Sub-Branch

'Peace and quiet' boosts memoriesAll of the important fragments of our memories that should be caught and preserved somehow just disap-pear. Now researchers have discov-ered all it may take for a person to ignite the memory is to simply sit and close their eyes for a few min-utes.

In an article published in the journal Psychological Science, a publication of the Association for Psychological Science, psychological scientist Michaela Dewar and her colleagues show memory can be boosted by taking a brief ‘wake-ful rest’ after learning something verbally new.

“Our findings support the view that the formation of new memories is not com-pleted within seconds,” Dr Dewar says. “Indeed our work demonstrates activi-ties we are engaged in for the first few minutes after learning new information really affects how well we remember this information after a week.”

In two separate experiments, a total of 33 normally ageing adults between the ages of 61 and 87 years were told two short stories and asked to remember as many details as possible. Immediately afterward, they were asked to describe what happened in the story and then they were given a 10-minute delay that consisted either of wakeful resting or playing a spot-the-difference game on the computer.

During the wakeful resting portion, par-ticipants were asked to just rest quietly with their eyes closed in a darkened room for 10 minutes while the experimenter left to prepare for the next test. Participants could daydream or think about the story or go through their grocery lists.

It did not matter what happened while their eyes were closed, only that they were undistracted by anything else and not receiving any new information.

When participants played the spot-the-difference game, they were presented with picture pairs on a screen for 30 seconds each and instructed to locate two subtle differences in each pair and point to them. The task was chosen because it required attention but, unlike the story, it was nonverbal.

In one study, the participants were asked to recall both stories half an hour later and then a week later. Participants remem-bered much more story material when the story presentation had been followed by a period of wakeful resting.

Dr Dewar explained there was growing evidence to suggest the point at which we experience new information is “just at a very early stage of memory forma-tion and further neural processes have to occur after this stage for us to be able to remember this information at a later point in time.”

Reproduced from the Aged Care Guide

Dawesville Annual Dinner

The Sub-Branch conducted its annual dinner on 1 September.

Guests at the dinner included Brigadier Steve Coggin CSC Commander 13th Brigade, Mr Bill Gaynor OAM RFD, President of the RSL WA Branch and their wives Kerryn and Joan. Representing the Mayor of Mandurah was Cr Rhys Williams and partner Monique.

Brigadier Coggin gave a very enlight-ening overview of current policies and future projections of our Defence Forces , specifically the role the Army involvement in its integration with the regular Army.

Mr Gaynor presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Mr Fred Abbott in rec-ognition of his outstanding service to the Sub Branch and general community over many years.

Cr Rhys Williams advised the mem-bers of local issues within the City of Mandurah as the local Councillor for Dawseville (Coastal Ward). A brief speech which was well received by all in attendance.

The members and guests thoroughly enjoyed the evening thanks to John and Di Pron , Loris Mavrick and MC Kevin Emberson.

Col Gibson - Vice President Dawesville Sub-Branch

Bill Gaynor presenting Fred Abbott his Certificate

Riverton RSL Sub-Branch Golf Club entered two teams for this years inaugural RSL Sub-Branch Golf tournament.

Both teams proved that age and treach-ery can out do youth and skill, how-ever we failed to outplay those older and wiser than us. Soundly defeated, we, the Riverton Sub-Branch, (i.e. Brett 'Chief' Saunders) have taken on the challenge to be the 2013 organisers. Chief has promised a polished after game speech. The challenge was played under differ-ent rules where 6 holes were secretly

selected then the best scores taken.

Light refreshments were constantly served but many players had difficulty standing (it must have been the wind?) The most important consideration was that a bunch of old diggers, pussers and the light blue brigade got together to laugh and enjoy fellowship. Two old pussers met after signing on 40 years ago. Secret Harbour was the venue, however this author warns all golfers to take extra golf balls, a GPS and a hip flask.

Tony Thatcher

Riverton – Golf Day

Photograph L-R: Neil Craven, Danny Savage, Ray Pearce, Brendan Mitchell, Crackers Barell, Peter Dyer, Chief Saunders and Tony Thatcher

Our most recent losses, all described as ‘highly respected and outstand-ing soldiers’ took the number of those killed in Afghanistan to 38. On behalf of RSL WA HQ and the West Australian membership the State President has dispatched letters of condolence via Defence to their Next of Kin (NOK).As with SGT Baddams, the CEO will liaise with the NOK for LCPL McDonald and Sapper Martin regarding their State War Memorial inscriptions. Subject to the NOK wishes this will be completed by ANZAC Day 2013.

Philip Orchard

Letters of Condolences

The LisTening PosT October 201224Sub-Branch News

North Beach Legacy Camp Busselton, Maintenance Week 17-21 September 2012In September, 13 North Beach RSL members joined with volunteers at the Legacy Maintenance Week at the Camp in Busselton, part of the “Holy Mile”.

Volunteers “turned to” each day to com-plete a range of tasks including pressure cleaning paths and walkways, mow-ing, removing deadfall, trimming trees,

removal of rubbish and rubble, clean-ing out sheds, erecting shelves, washing bedding and sorting out the workshop. Others groups formed up a number of areas and laid concrete as cement trucks arrived with donations from the local batching plant. Another task was relocat-ing wildlife, a possum, disturbed during the day in the workshop took his revenge

at 3 in the morning dancing over the accommodation block roof.

Our tradesmen supplied power and hot running water to accommodation areas and renewed fittings as required to com-ply with council requirements.

The Legacy Camp is used throughout the year by groups of War Widows, ex-service organisations and in the New

Year the Annual Legacy Children’s Camp accommodates Legacy wards from WA and Interstate. These children are dependants of Australian Defence Force personnel who have lost their lives in service of their country. Last year 80 children spent two weeks at the camp.

Rob Sweet – Secretary - North Beach

Formed in 2009 and meeting at least four times a year, the purpose of the Young Veterans (YV) Forum is to provide a consultative forum that can effectively address issues raised by current serving members of the Australian Defence Forces (ADF) and ex-Defence Force Members, post 1975, who have recently sepa-rated from the Armed Forces.

The YV Forum’s function is to liaise, through the body of the League, with the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) on tangible matters raised con-cerning post 1975 service personnel and their families. The Forum has an open door arrangement that is made possible through the generosity and ongoing sup-port of the Deputy Commissioner of DVA NSW/ACT Ms Jennifer Collins.

The relationship forged with DVA has led to forum members being involved in several fact-finding, review panels and other similar functions.

The YV Forum does not work in isolation, nor is it another breakaway Ex-Service Organisation. We are endorsed and sup-ported by the NSW State Branch of the Returned and Services League of Australia.

The Forum is a great representation of the three services and all the other ESOs that link up to form a conduit that previ-ously did not exist on behalf of young veterans. We, the League, must remem-ber that whilst the YV Forum is about raising those issues that are affecting our men and women of the ADF past and present it must also concentrate on what we can do for the families and widows of contemporary conflicts. Our families are the crucial link in helping our young

veterans facing many situations and must never be left out of the Forum’s agenda.

What can we do as an organisation that can support this? The list is endless and as long as it is part of the Aims and Objects of the League there is no reason why more support to families cannot be provided.

While there is no formal membership, there are many serving and ex-serv-ing personnel representing the Army, Navy and Air Force and other agencies, such as, Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) and the Veterans' and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS).

Membership to the League is one that must be retained to fight for their long-term welfare now and into their many years ahead including those future pen-sion years. Retaining young member’s regimental social associations is also encouraged.

The best examples of Sub-Branches with real practical applications and runs on the board with younger members are South Lake Macquarie and North Bondi. Recently, I spoke with North Bondi on what they did and what works for them.

In the last 60 days, North Bondi has had 131 serving members join their Sub-Branch. Currently their member-ship stands at 285 and expected to be approximately 500 strong by the end of the year. Not a bad effort consider-ing they only had a membership of 37 Service Members and 14 Associates in early 2009. North Bondi achieved this by providing relevant services for our serv-ing ADF members and younger veterans that had a positive effect on their lives and that of their families.

We as League Service Members need to

become Sub-branch centric with more focus on outcomes rather than on the process. There is also a need to be more outward focussed not just looking inter-nally. Our motto must remain to act locally while thinking nationally.

Sub-Branches need to identify issues specifically of concern to their local con-tingents such as - youth, mental health, suicides and family breakdowns – and structure the services they offer to mem-bers around such concerns. As somebody mentioned to me; “You’ve got to get relevant to your veteran community or you’re dead.”

The younger society is looking not only for ‘what’s in it for me’, but also for their family unit; they are looking for the ben-efits in joining the League for their whole unit. The family make-up today is a more hands on role with all parties, partners and children.

The RSL needs to change targeting to meet todays’ serving members, such as why should I join the League when I am not “old”, how can I get involved and what can I do?

I am very much involved and hold a posi-tion on the Committee of my Sub-Branch having previously held an Executive position at another. My young family is supportive in my RSL commitments but I am also aware that my family must come first.

Opportunities on the Young Veterans agenda are many and it is constantly evolving. We are encouraged to strength-en ties with groups that support the men and women of the ADF specifically those that support our families.

There are many looming problems such as Mental Health and many of which we

know so little. We need to stand up and get involved with the League to ensure there is involvement on government committees and Departmental agencies that will assist the many veterans in the future. Our involvement in Departmental decision making is vital for the balanced future we are promising our members.

Following the old ways of the League will only guarantee a slow and painful demise. Being creative, innovative and making the League welcoming, relevant, supportive, and listening to needs of serv-ing ADF members and younger veterans will guarantee the League’s survival long into the 21st Century and beyond.

We must become one League moving forward in a positive new direction. The key is always transforming to make ourselves a better organisation and not being stuck in the last Century as many of us currently fear. If we are to predict the future we must determine that future for ourselves.

Let us market and celebrate the consider-able achievements that this great organi-sation has and will achieve. Look at the opportunities and challenges that await - not the threat of being taken over or becoming irrelevant to members.

Together we are working for the better-ment of our Young Veterans. We have learnt a good deal from mistakes made following the Vietnam Conflict and our future has now become brighter, positive and more expansive as we embrace an increasing membership with new hopes and aspirations.

Shaun McGill – Secretary - Young Veterans Forum.

Current serving member of the Royal Australian Air Force

Young Veterans’ Forum Returned & Services League of Australia

The LisTening PosT October 2012 25Reunions/Services

2nd intake Junior Recruit Training hMAs Leeuwin 1961First Ever Reunion

To be held in the Shellharbour area NSW about 110 km south of Sydney.

Approximate date is yet to be confirmed, assume Feb/March 2014.

To register your interest and for further details contact Dave Turner [email protected] or

(02) 9520 2810••••••••

106 Field Workshop RAeMe nui Dat sVnAn Australian wide reunion will be held for all past members (all ranks, all Corps) and their partners in Mandurah WA on the weekend of 19-21 October 2012. A number of events have been organised. Please contact Fred on 0438 001 420 or go to www.106fdwksp.com for details.

••••••••

ArtilleryThe Committee of the Royal Australian Artillery Association (WA) Inc would like to invite all Gunners past and pres-ent, their families and other interested parties to attend our annual Gunners’ Day march and service at

St Matthew’s Anglican Church, Stirling Square, Guildford on Sunday, 4 November 2012.

Those marching should gather in Johnson Street at 11am for an 11.30am march off to the War Memorial where there will be a short service, laying of wreaths and the sounding of the Last Post. The Colour Party will then lead the parade, the official party and the con-gregation to St Matthew’s Church for a service. After the service at approximately 1pm, light refreshments will be provided at the hall adja-cent to the church, following which all are welcome to share some fellowship at the Rose & Crown Hotel, 105 Swan Street, Guildford.

For enquiries or further infor-mation please email [email protected] or contact the Secretary, John Blylevens on 0438 695 711 or the Vice-President, Peter Mahoney on 0400 408 285.

hMAs Leeuwin 42nd intake ReunionThere will be a 40th Reunion of the 42nd Intake from 8-10 February 2013 in Canberra.

Visit http://42ndintake.homestead.com/ or for more

information contact Don Hogarth via don_hogarth@

hotmail.com or 0438 641 043.

•••••••• hMAs VoyagerThe Daring Class Destroyer HMAS Voyager was com-missioned into the RAN in February 1957. She was lost following a collision with HMAS Melbourne in February 1964 with the loss of 82 lives - there were 232 survivors. During her 7 years in service, between 1200 & 1400 men served in her. A data base is being compiled of former crew for the purpose of reunions. Please send your name and details to the webmaster, Les Sheehan, 9 Bunya Park Drive, Eatons Hill, Qld 4037 (07) 32462589 or [email protected]

••••••••hMs ganges Association The WA Division would like to extend a welcome to ex Ganges boys and ships company to join the Division. We meet regu-larly on the 4th Thursday of the odd month at the Swan Yacht Club in East Fremantle. The HMS Ganges Association exists simply to encourage links, maintain comradeship between shipmates and keep the "Ganges Spirit" alive.

If you wish to know more about membership please contact.

The secretary Ian Critchley on 9419 3437.

••••••••Korea War Veterans Memorial Reunion Australia, Canberra ACT 19 - 21 October 2012 sees the gathering of Veterans’, family and friends for the annual com-memorative service and func-tions. For information packs and bookings please contact

Ms Wendy Karam on 0418 124 677 or email: wen-

[email protected] ••••••••

RAn - hMAs Leeuwin 8th intake (January 1964) Reunion 23 to 26 April 2014, Wollongong NSW

All replies direct to either of the following:

Bob Green – (02) 4283 5201 – E: [email protected] or Rick Watkins

– (02) 4256 2620 – E: [email protected]

••••••••naval Association – geraldtonThe Naval Association of Australia wishes to form a sub-section in Geraldton and welcome expressions of interest from serving and ex-serving members of the Navy who would like to join the Association.

Telephone (08) 9409 1014 or email jack.lecras@ozemail.

com.au ••••••••

naval engineering Reunion 2012 CanberraAll serving, retired and civil-ian members of the Naval Engineering branch are cor-dially invited to attend the

Naval Engineering Reunion 2012 which will be held on Friday 9 November 2012.

Venue: Tuggeranong Valley Rugby Union & Amateur Sports Club, Ricardo Street, Wanniassa, ACT, 2903 Time: 1730 to 1200

Cost: $45.00 per head (Includes drinks & finger food) payment prior to the event / $50.00 per head payment at the door.

Bookings can be made by contacting one of the com-mittee members listed below. The preferred method of pay-ment is EFT, cheque or cash. EFT Details - BSB 802 397 - Account 681137 - Account Name – Naval Engineering Reunion - Important - Please Enter Your Name in the com-ment or note section. Payment is requested by no later than Friday 2 November 2012.

Glenn Murch Ph: (02) 6261 1675 - Alan Freemantle Ph: 0418 297 860 - Neil Garvin

Ph: 0423 025 114 - Lyn Jensen Ph: 0434 416 876 - Garry Smee Ph: (02) 6201 7915 - Email: RAN.Naval.

[email protected]

DON'T MISS OUT BOOK NOW••••••••

naval ReunionThe 12th Annual Reunion of the First Frigate Flotilla (1946-1956), HMAS Condamine, HMAS Culgoa, HMAS Murchison, HMAS Shoalhaven will be held in Canberra 2 -5 November 2012. All ex-crew members plus their relatives and friends are invited to attend.

For further information please contact George

Franki: (02) 9955 9444; 9/6 Waverton Avenue,

WAVERTON 2060; [email protected].

Partners of Veterans Association Western Australia incPartners of Veterans Association Western Australia Inc held their Annual General Meeting in Busselton on Monday 3 September. The Committee was re-elected unopposed. Congratulations to all.

There will be an outing on Wednesday 10 October at Coventry Markets Morley. Please meet at the main Walter Road entrance at the ‘chester-field chairs’ at 10.30am. Please contact Kerryn on 9228 3350 or at [email protected] for further infor-mation.

We will of course again be at Bruce Rock for the Back to the Bush Reunion on 1 to 4 November. Come along and join us at The Club at 1.30pm for afternoon tea. All partners are invited to join us.

We will be holding our end of year Lunch at Hogsbreath Cafe, Lake Street, Northbridge on Monday 3 December 2012 at 11.30. For further information please contact.

Kerryn on 9228 3350 or at partnersofveteranswainc@

bigpond.com ••••••••

RAn Battle Class social Club - Annual national Reunion, ‘Albury 2012’Open Invitation to all ex naval personnel & family

October 18 - 21, 2012 in Albury, NSW

For Further Information on Membership or Reunion:

Geoff (Wiggy) Bennett - 0417 592 123 (Geoff) or 03 6267

9931 (Joe) - Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Sponsored by RAN Battle Class Social Club

RAn - gunnery Branch Reunion24 to 26 April 2013, Hobart Tasmania

All replies direct to: Graham Halton - HMAS

Duchess, Vietnam - http://www.vietnamroll.

gov.au/VeteranDetails.aspx?VeteranId=1231725 –

E:[email protected]••••••••

Remembrance Day service - Applecross The Applecross RSL Sub-Branch will conduct a Remembrance Day Service at the City of Melville Memorial, Melville Civic Square, adjacent to the library at 11am on Sunday 11 November 2012.

Members of Ex Service, Unit and Kindred associations and also members of the general public are invited to attend and to lay a floral tribute should they wish. Those participating are requested to assemble by 10.50am.

Enquiries may be made on 9330 3586.

Helen Pickering••••••••

Royal Australian Corps of signals Association (sA)RASigs National Reunion – Barossa Valley SA – 25-28 October 2013

The President and Members of the RASigs Association (SA) request the pleasure of your company for the 2013 RASigs National Reunion.

Register your interest at http://www.rasigs.com/

Contact President – RASigs Assn SA – Bruce Long – 0417

227 533 – [email protected] – http://www.

rasigs.com/2012_reunion/reunion2013_home.htm

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

The Listening Post relies on support from advertisers who contribute to our newspaper. It is important that

when you are using their services or shopping for goods, you mention that you are responding to an advertisement in this newspaper. Then advertisers'

then know that their advertisements are working and will continue their support of the RSL in this way.

It makes sense, doesn't it?So please rememeber to tell the person you are

dealing with

"I saw your advertisement in The Listening Post"


Can you help?

NoticesAVCAT scholarships and Bursaries The Australian Veterans' Children Assistance Trust (AVCAT) is a national indepen-dent charity helping the children and grandchildren of ex-service men and women to a better future through higher education. Through the help of generous donors, AVCAT administers scholarships for the children of those who have served our country in peace and war in the Australian Army, Navy and Air Force. Scholarship selec-tion is on a need and merit basis. Recipients come from all over Australia and study an enor-mous variety of courses. Over the years AVCAT has had doc-tors, psychiatrists and engi-neers, teachers, scientists, meteorologists, ballet dancers, circus performers, creative writ-ers, film makers – the list goes on. Students attend universi-ties, TAFE colleges and other approved tertiary institutions around Australia. The Australian

Veterans' Children Assistance Trust is an independent organization sponsored by the principal Australian ex-service associations. It was established in 2003 by the former Vietnam Veterans Trust, as a lasting leg-acy from Australia's use of the Agent Orange Funds.

Applications are now open and close on 31 October 2012. All applications should be received by this date. For more informa-tion you can visit the website: www.avcat.org.au

Phone: (02) 9213 7999. Fax: (02) 9213 7307; Email:

[email protected] Postal Mail: AVCAT, PO Box K

978, Haymarket, NSW 1240••••••••

RAAF Welfare Recreational Company (RWRC)

The RWRC provides low cost holiday facilities in Queensland on the Gold Coast, at Merimbula on the far South Coast of NSW

and in Darwin.

While these facilities are pre-dominately for current serving members, our ex-service per-sonnel may also access these facilities on an availability basis. Our website www.raafholidays.com.au has all our details, including those of the Winter Special which has just been launched. The website also has links to other available holiday facilities.

••••••••RAn Minor War Vessels Association (RAn MWVA)Calling all serving and Ex-Serving Navy personnel who served on 'sweepers, patrol boats and LCHs.

I would like your feed-back as to becoming part of this Association - RAN Minor War Vessels. This is more so with the work and conditions that patrol boats are now doing with the influx of illegal boat

people whilst serving on Border Protection, and being used a "taxi service".

Having served on minesweep-ers 1965-66 and patrol boats 1968-70, believe me, they are not luxury cruises and to those serving now, they should be given all the help we can.

If anyone who has served on either or you know of anyone who has, let them know and if you could let me know of your expression of interest etc. Please contact Allan Moffatt OAM at email address: [email protected].

••••••••Western Australia Branch of The Partners of Veterans Association of Australia inc.Invites you to a: Forum For Carers, Partners, War Widows And Families Of Veterans that is being hosted by Western Australia Senator, Michaelia Cash.

Venue: McLarty Hall, Cnr of McLarty and Watts Roads, Shoalwater. Time: 2.30pm for a 3.00pm start. When: Friday 26 October 2012.

Present to answer your cares and concerns about what is important to you will be Senator the Hon. Michael Ronaldson, Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Senator Michaelia Cash, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Immigration, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for the Status of Women.

Those wishing to attend need to confirm their attendance to: Jonathan Heron on 9226 2000 or via e-mail to [email protected] by Wednesday 24 October 2012.

This event is being held dur-ing the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Week.

Lesley Westlake - WA PVA Inc - 1300 553 835 - www.pva.

org.au.

I am looking for L/Cpl Ian Bullock 1Fld Sqn 3 TP. We served in SVN70/71. I would like to get in touch. Last known address 6/8-12 Wood St Inglewood WA 1972.

Robert Clare - [email protected].

Did you know that there is a progressive and unique Association which offers friendship, support, information and understanding to you in every State and Territory of Australia?

The health and wellbeing, benefits and entitlements of our members, along with concerns for the health of our children and grandchildren, are our main issues of concern. All such issues are raised at all levels of government in an effort to improve the lifestyle of our members.

Our aim is not only to support the partners of our generation, but also to consider the needs of all future generations and to have in place a support network that was not available when many of our veterans returned from their war service.

We have social groups of likeminded members who meet, usually monthly, for friendly and supportive times shared over a coffee, tea or three. Our support groups are located in Bunbury, Hillarys, Midland/Hills, South West and we have a contact for Geraldton.

Member volunteers are available at our office (Legacy House, 1330 Hay Street, West Perth, 6005 or Red Cat Stop Number 21) on Wednesdays and Fridays between 10.30am and 2.00pm.

Our membership criteria is “All persons who are a partner, ex-partner or widow/er of a war veteran or peacekeeper/peacemaker or service person involved in hazardous military service as a member of the Australian Navy, Army or Air Force or as a member of one of the Australian Allied Forces. Such person shall be called a Partner of a Veteran.”

We are The Partners of Veterans Association of Australia Inc.

For more information contact us, Australia wide, on 1300 553 835 or www.pva.org.au

Our West Australian group is Western Australia Branch of the Partners of Veterans Association of Australia WA PVA Inc. Our contact details are: PO Box 2435, Warwick, WA 6024.

We welcome your enquires, your support and your membership.

Partners and Families of Veterans and Current ADF Personnel

This brass plaque was found in Oro Province, Papua New Guinea by a local land owner who said that his land was a former Australian airport during World War ІІ. He had found this brass plaque buried on his land. It is about 14 cm long and 10.5 cm high and weighs about 735 grams and is 8ml thick.

I am trying to find out what machinery this may be from . If you have any ideas please do not hesitate to contact me on [email protected].

This plaque is inscribed as follows:

MADE IN AUSTRALIA BY GENERAL MOTORS HOLDENS LTD

MKIII 1942 WOODVILLE SOUTH AUSTRALIA

No 470

Matt [email protected] - http://gmholden-

waryears.proboards.com/ - http://users.sa.chariot.net.au/~kday/want-

edpage2.html

L/Cpl ian Bullock

Brass Plaque

Christmas Card CompetitionRSL State Branch is looking for old photographs to use on our Christmas Cards that show the activities

Sub-Branches have participated in over the past 96 years, or Christmas during times of conflictEntries are required by 14 November 2012 and will be attributed to you or your Sub-Branch.

Previous examples of Christmas cards are:

The LisTening PosT October 2012 27CrosswordSudoku

Easy Sudoku

Hard Sudoku

The editors have included new puzzles to test both our younger and young at heart readers. Sudoku is included in this and future

editions of ‘The Listening Post’.

Look upon this quiz as stopping the onward march of Alzheimers Disease!

Sudoku is a logic-based, combinatorial number-placement puzzle. The objective is to fill a 9×9 grid so that each column, each row,

and each of the nine 3×3 boxes (also called blocks or regions) contains the digits from 1 to 9 only one time each. The puzzle

setter provides a partially completed grid.

Provided by Sudoko.com.au

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31

32 33 34 35 36

37 38 39 40 41

42 43 44 45 46

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108 109

Len Copley

1 Metric linear unit 4 Roman goddess of wisdom11 Father's sister 12 Commit sabotage 14 Command 17 Agency (abbr.) 18 Open 19 Palter 20 __ per hour 22 Indecent language 23 Michelangelo's famous statue24 Master of ceremonies 26 Soldiers quarters 27 Environmental protection agency (abbr)28 Small Mediterranean boat29 Thoughts 30 Breathing need 31 Yuck! 32 Lincoln locale 33 Ridicule 34 Actor Paul (of Crocodile Dundee) 35 Brief 36 Pellet 37 Emergency room 38 Poles 39 Cut with a saw 40 Atom part 41 Globe 42 Weight units 44 Asian nation 45 Clothing edges 46 Teen hero 47 Hurting 48 Hot sandwich 49 Dirty 50 Harriet Beacher __ 51 And so forth 52 Boys' counterparts 53 Breath mints 54 Grim 55 Fish tank growth 56 African country 57 Groups 58 Air-conditioning gas 59 Supernatural being

60 Thailand citizens 61 Cuban 62 Ales 63 Hold 64 Show 65 Crunchy 66 Lazes about 67 Contend 70 Mush up 71 Jagged 72 Date 73 Blood carriers 75 Sleigh 76 Prepare 77 Waitress on Cheers 78 Lusty 79 Affirmative 80 Legal 81 Unusual 82 Not women's 83 Ego's partner 84 Cadmium (abbr.) 85 View 86 Gray 87 African country 88 Virginia (abbr.) 89 Santa's laugh 90 27th U.S. president 91 Upper body 92 Overturn 93 Animal doctor 94 Excessively 96 __ Carlo 97 Got up 98 Blight 99 Frame 100 Compass point 101 Capital of Ghana 102 Honcho 103 Gnawer 104 California inhabitant 107 Ice sheet 108 Hunted 109 Long-term memory

Down 1 Canal 2 Whichever 3 Montana (abbr.) 4 Extraordinary power 5 As previously cited 6 Not (refix) 7 Movie alien 8 Second scale note 9 "Star Trek"'s Spock's race 10 Sign of the zodiac 11 Water (Sp.) 12 Divide 13 Encounter 14 Bottom part of a ship 15 Unwell 16 Umber (2 wds.) 17 Strength of electric current18 Out of the mouths of __ 20 Capital of Byelorussia 21 Straw 22 Member of an American Indian people 23 Titles 24 Lawn tool 25 Brew 26 Sticky weeds 28 Zl 29 Midwestern state denizen 30 Lettuce, e.g. 33 French monetary unit 34 Dislikes 35 Bunches 39 Black 40 Appropriation 41 Smells 43 Spoil 44 Koran 45 Trite 46 Objects 48 Severity 49 Couches 50 Stuffy 52 Gather 53 Twirp 54 Large mammals

55 Debate 56 Birds with webbed feet 57 Stealing 58 Discharged 59 Rationalism 60 Jeweled headdress 61 Demeter 62 Family of little animals 63 I __ if I could 64 Reigns (2 wds.) 65 Old woman 66 Truck 67 Vice __ 68 Three 69 Makes cheerful 70 Weirdoes 71 Burst out 72 Capital of Egypt 73 Plastic 74 Calm 76 Funny 77 End 78 Locus 80 Head skin 81 Malt liquor 82 Elite intellectuals' society 85 Swagger 86 Aboveboard 87 Seasoner makers 91 Sounds 92 Curved 93 Jar 95 Terminal abbr. 96 Kitten's cry 97 Teen disease 98 Prosper 101 Noah's boat 102 Bacon-lettuce-tomato sandwich 105 Teacher's assistant, for short 106 Railroad track 107 Florida (abbr.)

Almonds can help treat type 2

diabetesA recent scientific study shows that incorporating almonds into your diet can help treat and possibly prevent type 2 diabetes, as well as cardiovascular disease.

The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition and one of the first of its kind to quantify prevention data, illustrates that consuming a diet rich in almonds may help improve insulin sensitivity and decrease LDL-cholesterol levels in those with pre-diabetes.

From Aged Care Guide


sUDoKU soLUTionEasy Sudoku

Hard Sudoku

D A M M I N E R V A

A U N T S A B O T E U R S B I D

A G C Y B E G I N L I E M I L E S

S M U T D A V I D E M C E E B I L L E T

E P A Z E B E C I D E A S L U N G P U

N E F L E E R H O G A N T E R S E B B

E R R O D S S A W E D Q U A R K O R B

C A R A T S Q A T A R C U F F S I D O L

A G O N Y R U B E N S O O T Y S T O W E

E T C G I R L S C E R T S S T E R N

A L G A E G H A N A T E A M S

F R E O N D E I T Y T H A I S

C I G A R B E E R S W I E L D

R E R U N C R I S P L O A F S V I E

P U R E E E R O S E C O U R T V E I N S

S L E D G R O O M C A R L A V I R I L E

Y E S S O U N D W E I R D M E N S I D

C D S C O P E H O A R Y K E N Y A V A

H O T A F T T O R S O A N N U L V E T

O V E R L Y M O N T E A R O S E B A N E

S E T U P E N E A C C R A B O S S

R A T W E S T E R N E R F L O E

S T A L K E D L T M

CRossWoRD soLUTion

AnsWeRs

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning.

We will remember them. Lest we forget.LAsT PosTnavy F3811; Allan, Victor – Wyalkatchem Sub-Branch

R55909; Brownrigg, Barry- Bicton-Palmyra Sub-Branch

F3851; Fisher, Victor – City of Mandurah Sub-Branch

F4089; Green, Warren – Applecross Sub-Branch

F5792, Harris, R.J. – Bunbury Sub-Branch

P209669; Hawkins, E.L. – Central Branch

PJX276079; Hodson, Christopher – Karridale-Augusta Sub-Branch

H2992; Kelly, Trevor – City of Perth Sub-Branch

R36516; McEwan, Wallace – City of Perth Sub-Branch

R53221; Sheppard, Leslie – City of Mandurah Sub-Branch

ArmyWX28989; Arkell, Albert – City of Perth Sub-Branch

WX36097; Bender, Jack – Ballajura Sub-Branch

WX25866; Boal, Samuel, City of Belmont Sub-Branch

WX31819; Brennan, Roy – City of Belmont Sub-Branch

2/411785; Clingan, Peter – Jurien Bay Sub-Branch

22703138; Clitheroe, John – York Sub-Branch

WX27952; Collins, Albert – Bicton-Palmyra Sub-Branch

WX 29432; Cooper, W.M.H – Nedlands Sub-Branch

T10680849; Cox, Bernard – City of Perth Sub-Branch

5359; Daniels, Lyndsay – City of Perth Sub-Branch

WX27565; Dhue, Robert – City of Perth Sub-Branch

WX22462; Forrest, Colin – Bunbury Sub-Branch

4721441; Gildersleeve, Kerrol – Riverton Sub-Branch

WX36671; Green, James – City of Perth Sub-Branch

5411157; Haynes, John – Bunbury Sub-Branch

VX92359; Laird, Richard – Yokine-Joondanna Sub-Branch

5/15277; La Roche, Stanley – City of Belmont Sub-Branch

WF96149; Langley, Daphne – City of Rockingham Sub-Branch

5718676; Liddell, Geoffrey – City of Cockburn Sub-Branch

WX9886; McCarthy, L.A.E. – Yokine- Joondanna Sub-Branch

WX39193; McIntosh, Lionel – Cambridge Sub-Branch

3791649; McLachlan, Ewen – Kununurra Sub-Branch

5-17478; Mitchell, Colin – Bunbury Sub-Branch

WX40306; Montage, Allan – City of Mandurah Sub-Branch

WX13988; Newton, John – City of Mandurah Sub-Branch

58/106123; Nguyen Dinh – Vietnamese Services Sub-Branch

14410214; Page, James – Gosnells Sub-Branch

VX57852; Pollard, Bertram – City of Mandurah Sub-Branch

WF53063; Reeves, Lily – Returned Ex-Servicewomen Sub-Branch

WX38642; Rowe, K.F. – Bellevue Sub-Branch

WX5000113; Sara, Reginald – Scarborough Sub-Branch

5702713; Sherman, William – City of Belmont Sub-Branch

VF397070; Taylor, Nancy - City of Mandurah Sub-Branch

WX12989; Wall, H.J. – City of Belmont Sub-Branch

WX25291; Walton, Alan – Riverton Sub-Branch

NX72951; Ward, C.W. City of Mandurah Sub-Branch

WX4556; Williams, Leonard – Geraldton Sub-Branch

5/703904; Williams, Terrence – Gosnells Sub-Branch

Air Force94619; Axford, Daphne – Returned Ex-Servicewomen Sub-Branch 203251; Boutwood, John – City of Perth Sub-Branch

29222; Carwardine, J.H. – Central Branch82597; MacDonald, Clarence – City of South Perth Sub-Branch81540, McKendry, William – Eastern Reginoal Sub-Branch38505; Mellar, R.C. - Bellevue Sub-Branch84816, Oakley, Maurice – City of Mandurah Sub-Branch80360; O’Loughlin, K.W. – Highgate Sub-Branch99433; Quill, Joy – City of Rockingham Sub-Branch441365; Richards, T. – Quairading Sub-BranchA43319, Rose, Robert – Bullsbrook Sub-Branch45335; Rubery, D.H. – City of Perth Sub-Branch15410; Rush, Keith – Bellevue Sub-Branch441639; Russell, Stanley – Dongara Sub-Branch568047; Shipman, Eric – Claremont Sub-BranchA32981; Simpson, Laurie – City of Perth Sub-Branch81460; Trainer, Clifford – Bedford-Morley Sub-Branch83177; Whyte, Frank – City of Mandurah Sub-Branch441762; Whyte, N.W. – Shenton Park Sub-Branch441403; Worthington, John – City of South Perth Sub-Branch

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, has urged the community to be wary of tour operators promising tickets to Centenary ANZAC Day com-memorations at Gallipoli in 2015.

Mr Snowdon has announced joint plans with the New Zealand Government to hold a ballot for around 8,000 passes to Australians to attend the commem-orations, as places would be limited. “Tour operators are not in a position where they can guarantee a place at the commemorations,” he said. “People who have already booked a tour to Gallipoli in 2015, which covers ANZAC Day on the pen-insula, should speak to their tour operators immediately. “No tour operators should expect to receive passes from the ballot and should not promise their customers otherwise.” Since 2010, DVA has been advising tour operators that they should not,

in good conscience, advertise tours to Gallipoli in 2015, that guarantee access to the Dawn Service or other com-memorative sites, until final arrange-ments regarding attendance at services were agreed by the Turkish, Australian and New Zealand Governments. This advice has been posted on the DVA website since December 2010, briefings between the DVA and tour operators were also held in 2011. “The vast majority of people who visit Gallipoli do so as part of an organised tour, and there is no reason to expect that this would change in 2015,” Mr Snowdon said. “Once the pass allocation process is complete, recipients should engage with their preferred tour opera-tor to make travel arrangements. “In other words, recipients of pass-es will still need a tour operator to take them to Gallipoli in 2015. “All Australians will have the opportu-nity to register for the ballot and those

who are successful will have enough time to make their travel arrangements. “The Australian Government is committed to ensuring the com-memorations at Gallipoli continue to be dignified and appropriate.” More information on how the ballot will operate will be announced next year. A period of public consulta-tion is now open until the end of November for the community to have their say on how Australia should be represented at the commemorations. For more information on the ballot or to access the survey visit the Gallipoli 2015 website www.gallipoli2015.dva.gov.au. For more information on con-sumer rights visit

http://australia.gov.au/topics/busi-ness-and-industry/consumer-rights.

Media inquiries: Minister Snowdon: Lidija Ivanovski 02 6277

7820 or 0407 108 935 Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Media: 02 6289 6203.

Warning For Early Gallipoli 2015 Tour Bookings

Whether you’re cooking at home, eating out or ordering takeaway, it’s not just what and how much you eat but it’s also how the food is prepared that counts. Here below are the leanest cooking meth-ods.

healthiest cooking methodsRoasting: Keep fat to a minimum and boost flavour by pouring wine, fruit juice or even tea over fish, pumpkin or potatoes before baking.

Barbecuing: Use soy sauce, fruit juice, wine, honey or other low-fat marinades to baste meat or fish instead of oil or butter when barbecuing.

Grilling: Let the fat drip off your meat. Avoid oil-based marinades. Try wrapping seasoned food in foil packets so it steams in its own juices and stays moist as it cooks.

Microwaving: This quick cooking method preserves the flavours and essential nutrients contained in vegetables and fruit.

Poaching: Poach in stock, wine or fruit juice and season the poaching liquid with your favourite fresh herbs—for even more flavour. This is the tastiest and leanest way to cook fish, chicken or fruit desserts. It’s the healthiest way to cook eggs, too.

Pressure-cooking: Ideal for beans, grains, soups, dried vegetables and stews. Chill soups after cooking, then skim the fat away.

Baking: Brings out a toasty or caramel flavour in vegeta-bles and grains. Use a rack to let fat run off meat, chicken or fish.

Sauteing: Prepare your food without adding fat by substi-tuting a bit of water, wine or stock for oil.

Steaming: Use a steamer basket to prevent nutrients from leaching into the water.

Stewing/braising: This slow cooking method allows meat to give off fat. Chill the dish after cooking, then skim off the fat.

other healthy cooking methodsBoiling: You’ll certainly trim the kilojoules with this cooking method, but remember that you’ll also lose some valuable water-soluble nutrients, especially if the food is chopped before boiling. Try boiling whole potatoes in their skins, or even carrots—any of your favourite vegetables

Stir-frying: Use this quick cooking method to seal in the flavour of vegetables, tofu, meats or chicken. Minimise fat by using a little bit of water or stock instead of oil.

Readers Digest http://australia.gov.au/topics/business-and-industry/

consumer-rights. Media inquiries: Minister Snowdon: Lidija Ivanovski

02 6277 7820 or 0407 108 935 Department of Veterans’ Affairs Media: 02 6289 6203.

Healthy ways to cook meals

The LiSTeNiNg POST October 2009 29The LisTening PosT October 2012 29United and Kindred Listing

great southern Railway indian Pacific

A poor immune system can con-tribute to many diseases and con-ditions – particularly in later life. So, how do you safeguard your-self from ill-health and boost your immunity?

The Sydney Morning Herald reports a number of foods can boost immunity and help the body heal with any chal-lenges it may face.

go nuts!Almonds, cashews and walnuts are packed with Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps rid the body of free-radicals, while creating antibodies that fight the bacteria that often makes you sick.

Add a little bitterness to your lifeEating citrus fruits such as grapefruits, lemons, limes and tangerines may help you fight infection. But, if that sour taste does not tickle your tastebuds, then try consuming capsicums which will provide you with equally as much Vitamin C as it is famous for fighting infection.

not all bacteria is badThere are some strains of bacteria that do not cause the immune system to

plummet, in fact, yoghurt has long been known as “good bacteria” which will keep your digestive system up and run-ning.

New research from the Journal of the American Dietetics Association indi-cates regularly consuming foods with ‘good bacteria’ – also known as probi-otics – may help to boost the immune system.

show us your green tongueGreen tea is known to stimulate the immune-system cells and prevent dis-ease-promoting compounds from form-ing.

Add a bit of honey if you do not like the bitter taste that some green tea may bring; however, ensure you do not add milk as this reportedly stops the tea’s “immunity-building” benefits.

Prawns build immunityPrawns are low in fat – but the good news does not end there. Prawns also contain the antioxidant selenium, which is a mineral needed in small amounts and works to support a healthy immune system.

Reproduced from the Aged Care Guide – DPS News

Boost immunity with these foods

Members of Greenbushes Sub-Branch with Philip Orchard, RSL WA, presenting Annmaree Stallard with her prize

Congratulations to Annmaree Stallard of Greenbushes Sub-Branch who won the Great Southern Railway (GSR) Indian Pacific gold ticket for two. Annmaree is a Silver Chain nurse in the Greenbushes area and has been a member since 1989. Well done Annmaree & enjoy your trip. GSR is currently liaising with colleagues in South Australia regarding a similar draw next year in an effort to increase national membership.

Unit and Kindred Name Position Address City State P/Code11th Battalion AIF 13th Brigade WW2 President 1 Harvey St PEPPERMINT GROVE WA 601116th Battalion Cameron Highlanders of WA (Inc) Secretary 3 Clubb Court WINTHROP WA 61502/11th A.I.F. INFANTRY BATTALION Secretary 4/18 MacLeod Rd APPLECROSS WA 61532/16th Battalion A.I.F. Association Inc Secretary 86 Stickland Street SOUTH PERTH WA 61512/3rd Composite Anti-Aircraft Regiment Secretary 292 The Boulevard CITY BEACH WA 60152/3rd Machine Gunners & Relatives Assoc of Western Australia Inc President 201 Keane Street CLOVERDALE WA 61052/7th Australian Field Regiment (WA) Ex-Members Assoc President 101 C Wattle Dr TUART HILL WA 606079 Squadron Ubon Thailand Secretary 40 Elm St HAMERSLEY WA 6022Airborne Forces Assoc of WA (Inc) Secretary No 8 Silverline Bend BERTRAM WA 6167Allied Merchant Seamen Assoc (WA Branch) Secretary 1 Cromer Rd BRENTWOOD WA 6153Amercian Returned Military Services Secretary 12 Binburra Way MT NASURA WA 6112Australian Ex-Services Atomic Survivors Assoc President 48/58 Canna Dr CANNING VALE WA 6155Australian Intelligence Corps Association Corps Representative WA PO Box 5317 WEST BUSSELTON WA 6230Australian Red Cross Chairman 110 Goderich St EAST PERTH WA 6004Australian Special Air Service Assoc (WA Branch) Inc Secretary PO Box 6137 SWANBOURNE WA 6010Borneo POW Relatives Assoc of WA Inc Secretary 10 Carnwrath Way DUNCRAIG WA 6023British Ex-Services Assoc Inc. Secretary PO Box 842 KALAMUNDA WA 6926British South Africa Police Regimental Assoc (Australian Branch) Secretary 121 Ewen Street DOUBLEVIEW WA 6018Burma Thailand Railway Memorial Assoc Secretary 31 Geranium Place CANNING VALE WA 6155Defence Forces Welfare Assoc WA Branch President Irwin Barracks KARRAKATTA WA 6010Ex Wrans Association WA Secretary 6 Browne St SUBIACO WA 6008Far East Stategic Reserve Navy Assoc W.A. Division Secretary PO Box 246 COMO WA 6952Fleet Air Arm Assoc of Australian WA Division Secretary 26 Hefron Street MT HELENA WA 6082HMAS Hobart Assoc (WA Div) Secretary 13 Blackburne Dr KELMSCOTT WA 6111Honouring Indigeous War Graves Inc. President PO Box 418 BAYSWATER WA 6933HQ 1 ATF Assoc President PO Box 325 GLADESVILLE NSW 1675Mandurah Murray Vietnam Veterans Group Inc Secretary PO Box 2203 MANDURAH WA 6210Nashos League of WA INC (Wheatbelt Division) President PO Box 513 NORTHAM WA 6401National Servicemen's Assoc of Australia (WA Branch Inc.), Secretary 96 Jubilee St BECKENHAM WA 6107National Servicemen’s Assoc of Australia (WA Branch Inc.) Mandurah/Murray Sub-Branch Secretary PO Box 1699 MANDURAH WA 6210National Servicemen’s Assoc of Australia (WA Branch Inc.) Mid West Sub Branch Secretary 139 Glenfield Beach Drive GERALDTON WA 6530North American Veterans Unit Secretary 7 Hallam Close BOORAGOON WA 6154Partners of Veterans Association of Australia (WA) President 182 Lord Street PERTH WA 6000Western Australian Branch of the Partners of Veterans' Association of Australia Inc Secretary PO Box 2435 WARWICK WA 6024Perth Legacy Secretary 1130 Hay St PERTH WA 6005RAAF 467-463 Lancaster Squadrons Assoc WA Secretary 9 Redcourt Rd ATTADALE WA 6156RAAF Nursing Service Branch President 5 Chalwell St ROCKINGHAM WA 6149Rhodesian Ex-Servicemen’s Assoc President 53 Davallia Rd DUNCRAIG WA 6023Royal Air Forces Association 1210 Branch WA (INC) Secretary PO Box 2020 SEVILLE GROVE WA 6112Royal Australian Air Force Assoc (WA) Division Secretary AFME Bull Creek Drive BULL CREEK WA 6149Royal Australian Armoured Corps Assoc WA Branch Secretary 35 Pollard Cross (West) CARDUP WA 6122Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps Assoc (WA) Inc. Secretary 9 Napier Road MORLEY WA 6062Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps Assoc WA (Inc.) Secretary 16 Lorrimar Place MURDOCH WA 6150Royal Australian Engineers Assoc of WA Inc Secretary 26 Lithorne Way BALGA WA 6061Royal Australian Navy Communications Branch Assoc (WA Branch) Secretary 5 Market St KENSINGTON WA 6151Royal Australian Regiment Assoc (WA Branch) Secretary PO Box 56 COMO WA 6952Royal Australian Signals Assoc (WA) Inc Secretary 7 Danaher Mews CLARKSON WA 6030Royal Western Australia Regiment Association Secretary 16 Pomelo Way SEVILLE GROVE WA 6112Submariners Assocation (Australia Branch) Secretary 15 Woburn Way KELMSCOTT WA 6111Submarines Assoc of Australian (WA Branch) Secretary 26 Grayswood Retreat ERSKINE WA 6210The Royal Green Jackets Association Chairman 106 Alfreda Avenue NORANDA WA 6062Tribal Class Destroyers Association (WA) Secretary 3 Salandri Avenue BENTLEY PARK WA 6102Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia (WA Branch) Inc President 38 Kalgoorlie Street MOUNT HAWTHORNE WA 6016WA RSL Bowls Section Secretary 6B Civic Drive WANNEROO WA 6065WRAAC Association (WA) Secretary PO Box 6149 EAST PERTH WA 6892WRAAF Branch - RAAF Assoc Secretary c/- RAAFA Bull Creek Drive BULLCREEK WA 6149Z Special Unit Association of WA Inc. Secretary 28A Houston Ave DIANELLA WA 6059

The LisTening PosT October 201230Book Review

overview:'We make and we break.'

They were the forward scouts, the mine clearers, the bridge builders and the tun-nel rats. They were frequently not just on the front line, but right at the sharp end of the action. They were the legend-ary Aussie sappers, the army engineers, who were literally everywhere in the fighting against the Vietcong.

This special breed of soldier lived hard and played hard. They were there at the beginning of the war. They were also among the last to leave. And along the way, they fought with their mates in infantry and tanks to bear the brunt of the Vietcong's revenge.

To the rest of the world, Vietnam was a conflict of ideologies. On the ground it was a battle of wits and the sappers were at the forefront. This is their story.

About the Author:Jimmy Thomson is a journalist, author and screenwriter whose credits include the ABC-TV series Rain Shadow. He is the author of Snitch, Tunnel Rats and Watto.

A graduate of the Royal Military College, Duntroon, as a young captain Sandy MacGregor commanded 3 Field Troop in Vietnam, where he won the Military Cross. He served in the Army for 30 years, finishing as a colonel in the Reserves.

overview:"Australias own Band of Brothers"

One of the shortest lived and most battle hardened of the 1st Australian Imperial Force’s battalions, the 47th was formed in Egypt in 1916 and dis-banded two years later having suffered one of the highest casualty rates of any Australian unit. Their story is remark-able for many reasons.

Dogged by command and discipline troubles and bled white by the desper-ate attrition battles of 1916 and 1917, they fought on against a determined and skilful enemy in battles where the fortunes of war seemed stacked against them at every turn. Not only did they have the misfortune to be called into some of the A.I.F.’s most costly cam-paigns, chance often found them in the worst places within those battles.

Though their story is one of almost unrelieved tragedy, it is also story of remarkable courage, endurance and heroism. It is the story of the 1st

A.I.F. itself – punished, beaten, some-times reviled for their indiscipline, they fought on - fewer, leaner and harder - until final victory was won. And at its end, in an extraordinary gesture of mateship, the remnants of the 47th Battalion reunited. Having been scattered to other units after their disbandment, the survivors gathered in Belgium for one last photo together. Only 73 remained.

About the Author:Craig Deayton is a History teacher with a special interest in Australia’s military history. He has worked as a teacher and College Principal for over twenty-five years and is current-ly Principal of Sacred Heart College in Hobart. Craig holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Masters degree in Education. This is his first book. Craig lives in Hobart with his wife Tracey and children Patrick, Dominic, Michael and Annie.

A sappers’ WarHow the legendary Aussie Tunnel Rats Fought the VietCongBy Jimmy Thomson with Sandy MacGregorPublished by Allen & Unwin

Battle scarredThe 47th Battalion in the First World WarBy Craig DeaytonPublished by Big Sky Publishing

Beaten Down by BloodThe Battle of Mont St Quentin-Peronne 1918By Michele BomfordPublished by Big Sky Publishing

overview:"Australias own Band of Brothers"Beaten Down by Blood: The Battle of Mont St Quentin-Peronne 1918 charts an extraordinary journey from the trenches facing Mont St Quentin on 31 August 1918 through the frenetic phas-es of the battle until the final objectives are taken on 5 September. This is the story, often told in the words of the men themselves, of the capture of the ‘unattackable’ Mont and the ‘invin-cible’ fortress town of Peronne, two of the great feats of Australian forces in the First World War.

The Author places real men on the battlefield, describing their fears and their courage and their often violent deaths. The struggle for control of the battle, to site the guns, to bridge the Somme and maintain communications are portrayed in vivid detail. The story also offers a glimpse of the men’s fami-lies at home, their anxiety and their life-long grief.

This work provides a carefully articu-lated context, describing the ground over which the battle was fought and examining the corps and the ingredi-ents which made it ‘socially and struc-turally homogenous’. An overview of infantry firepower, tactics, training and discipline demonstrates that there was more to the Australian soldier than daring and dash. Likewise, the

Australians’ German opponent, while numerically weaker and haphazardly thrown into the line, is portrayed as a worthy adversary—a determined and tenacious opponent.

Beaten Down by Blood explores the relationship between myth and history and the significance of the ANZAC legend. It analyses the forces that drove the diggers forward even when they had reached the limits of their endur-ance. The Battle of Mont St Quentin-Peronne represents the Australian Corps at its very best, its diggers fight-ing for peace and satisfied that, ‘what-ever might lie ahead, at least every-thing was right behind them’.

About the Author:Michele Bomford holds a Masters Degree in History and a Diploma in Education from the University of Sydney. She was a History teacher for many years before turning to research and writing at the end of 2008. The Battle of Mont St Quentin-Peronne 1918 follows her first book, Beaten Down by Blood: The Battle of Mont St Quentin-Peronne 1918, the research for both supported by an Australian Army History Unit Grant in 2009. As well as her passion for Australia’s role in the First World War, she is interested in 19th and early-20th century Australian History and Family History.

The LiSTeNiNg POST October 2009 31The LisTening PosT October 2012 31Book Review

overview:'We make and we break.'Francis Birtles was a man like no other. His motto in life was ‘chance it’. And he did… many times, in many ways. As a bushman, cyclist, motorist, soldier, sailor, photographer, author and movie maker, he was one of Australia’s great-est adventurers and one of our most daring rogues.

By the time he was nineteen he’d sailed around the world twice. Fought in a war. Been shot at and almost burned to death. In the early 20th century, pick-ing his way along non-existent tracks, he cycled around Australia battling everything from dehydration and star-vation to venomous snakes and climatic extremes. And then he did it again.

In the late 1920s, he became the first person to drive a motor car overland from London to Melbourne. On the journey he was strafed by an RAF plane in the Middle East and outwitted the head hunters of the Naga Hills in Burma. Cutting vehicle access through jungles and hauling the car up mountain passes, the world said it was impossible, but he had a go anyway. He arrived back in Australia to a hero’s welcome.

Francis Birtles’ whole life was a remark-able Boy’s Own Adventure. This inspir-ing and captivating biography captures

his never say die spirit and stories of derring-do, showing us nothing is impossible.

About the Author:Warren Brown has been an editorial newspaper cartoonist since 1986. He is currently cartoonist for Sydney’s Daily Telegraph, for which he also writes a weekly motoring column.

In 1995, as part of the Federal Government’s Australia Remembers commemorative program, he co-con-ceived and implemented ‘Back to the Track’, a pilgrimage for WWII veter-ans commemorating the building of the Stuart Highway between Alice Springs and Darwin, involving a troop train and a convoy of 100 WWII vehicles.

In May 2005, Brown participated in a recreation of the 1907 Peking to Paris race using five 100 year old cars. He also presented a four part documentary series about the event.

Brown is a keen motoring enthusiast. He owns several vintage vehicles including a 1929 Dennis fire engine. The pièce de resistance of his collection, however, is the Bean 14 – exactly the same model in which Francis Birtles drove over-land from London to Melbourne, and smashed the Darwin to Melbourne inter-city speed record.

Francis BirtlesBy Warren BrownPublished by Hachette Australia - 9th October 2012

overview:This is the story of the single file trail and that long ago battle – the Kokoda Trail Campaign of 1942.

The Kokoda Trail is as important a part of Australia’s history as Gallipoli, and is a pilgrimage that thousands of Australians make, but few will have completed the trail as many times as Brian Freeman. The former Special Forces soldier has set records running the 96 kilometre trail and led dozens of treks along it as part of his adventure trekking company.

After years of friendship with local vil-lagers, Brian was entrusted with a secret that had been hidden from outsiders since 1942, only passed down among the villagers, from generation to genera-tion. The long kept secret was the loca-tion of a lost World War Two battlefield where Australian and Japanese forces engaged in what was one of the bloodi-est engagements of the campaign, after inaccurate mapping of the area, post-war, the battlefield was forgotten and lost to the jungle.

Knowing that such a revelation would command tremendous interest and require careful management, the villag-ers’ decided to divulge details of the site to Brian, the first westerner to hear of its existence in decades. He authenticated and mapped the lost battlefield with archaeologists and helped set up a trust to act as guardian for the special site.

Part fascinating military history, part gripping archaeology mystery, part exciting adventure The Lost Battlefield of Kokoda is the story of the trail on which fierce and bloody warfare was waged between the Japanese and Australian forces, how the important battleground was forgotten, and finally found.

About the Author:Brian Freeman served as a captain with the special forces of the Australian Army. Since 2000 he has worked running treks along the Kokoda Trail and adventure programmes around the world. He lives in Brisbane.

The Lost Battlefield of KokodaBy Brian FreemanPublished by Macmillan (Pan Macmillan Australia)

Too Much Food, Too Little BalanceMany Australians are eating too much of some foods and not enough of others, according to a report released yesterday by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).In 1994, the AIHW published its first comprehensive report on Australia’s food and nutrition. Australia’s Food & Nutrition 2012 is the much-anticipated revised edi-tion, and was launched yesterday by Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing, Catherine King, at the 2012 World Congress of the International Federation for Home Economics in Melbourne.

The report highlights the key parts of the food and nutrition system from ‘paddock to plate’ and how food choices affect health and the environment.

“The report shows many Australians are not striking a balance between foods high in fat and sugar and more nutritious choices,” AIHW spokesperson, Lisa McGlynn, said.

On average, extra foods, including sweet biscuits, cakes and pastries, contributed to 36% of energy intake for older adults and 41% for children, which is more than the recommended 0 to 3 serves of ‘extras’ per day (depending on age and stage).

In addition, the majority of adults and children had higher energy intakes from total sugars and saturated fat than recommended – that is, a maximum of 20% from sugars and 10% from saturated and trans fats combined.

The report also revealed 25% of men and 10% of women aged 65 years and over do not eat enough protein foods.

Poor dietary intake increases the risk of developing chronic diseases (such as heart disease, diabetes and some cancers) which contribute to the total burden of disease in Australia, AIHW claimed.

One estimate suggests poor diet costs the nation $5 billion each year; this includes direct costs, such as hospitals, GP services and medicines, and indirect costs, such as sick leave and forgone earnings due to premature death.

However, Ms McGlynn said there were some factors discouraging Australians from eating well and maintaining a healthy body weight.

“The cost of healthy food is increasing at a faster rate than the cost of less healthy food, particularly in remote areas, where a healthy basket of food can cost up to 30% more than in capital cities. This may influence some people to buy less healthy foods due to limited choice and high cost,” she said

Reproduced from the DPS Aged Care Guide

My Story

3. What Armed Service did you join and what is the reason for this choice? Joined RAN aged 17 direct from Cadets. Sailors don’t have to walk or run around.

Fleet reserve as instructor to cadets.

4. What was your most memorable event in the Service? Selected to “chopper” duties for visits of H.R.H Prince Phillip Royal visits 1956.

5. How do you see the future of the RSL?Positive, as long as RSL’s continues to assist serving ex-members, families, schools and locals communities.

1. Where did you spend your years prior to joining the Armed Services? Educated in Sydney’s eastern Suburbs.

Surfing at Bondi and Mouroubra.

Became a Navy Cadet aged 11.

2. Why did you join the Armed Services? Natural progression from Cadet.

Ron Davis

City of RoCkingham RsL sub-bRanCh


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