Registered by AUSTRALIA POST NO. PP607128/00001 THE August 2008 VOL. 31 No.4

The official journal of The Returned & Services League of Australia POSTAGE PAID SURFACE ListeningListening Branch Incorporated • PO Box 3023 Adelaide Tce, Perth 6832 • Established 1920 PostPostAUSTRALIA MAIL The State of RSL WA The President’s Annual Report to State Congress (Full Report inside)

The State President, Mr Bill Gaynor, said today that he was “pleased with the way the 92nd Annual Congress proceeded with all delegates participating in a full discussion on all topics, including Veterans pensions and entitlements, resulting in delegates happy with the outcomes. Again the Congress Dinner proved to be a success as was the service at the War Memorial in Kings Park.” Mr Gaynor also noted that “the Annual Congress is an essential item on the RSL WA calendar as it allows representatives from all parts of such a geographically large state to come together and discuss common issues so our opinions can be heard.” Denis Connelly

2007-2008 RSL Annual Report Page 13-15

Korea: The Forgotten War

Page 19

Subiaco RSL Celebrates 90th year Page 21

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THE August 2008 VOL. 31 No.4 Publishing of Listening Post "The Listening Post" is published 6 times a year with printing 10,000 Listening Post copies to members, subscribers and united & Kindred associations. Publishers STATE EXECUTIVE Deadline for next edition: 20th September, 2008. The Returned & Services League WA Branch Incorporated 2005-2008 for contributions to next edition ANZAC House State President If possible, submissions should be typed and double-spaced. Preferred 28 St Georges Tce PERTH WA 6000 Mr William Gaynor OAM RFD method of receiving submissions is via email. Photographs can be black and white or colour. This is your journal and contributions are welcome. Telephone: (08) 9287 3716 State Vice President Address to: PO Box 3023, Perth Adelaide Tce, Mr Graeme Sherriff WA 6832 The Managing Editor, The Listening Post State treasurer Email: [email protected] Facsimile: (08) 9287 3732 RSL, PO Box 3023 Perth Adelaide Terrace, WA 6832 Mr Paul Rengel Website: www.rslwahq.org.au WA Country Callers: 1800 259 799 Email: [email protected] committee Secretaries and Contributors are reminded that "cut off" dates for inclusion Mr Peter Blenkinsopp in The Listening Post are to be strictly adhered to, as articles are being refused Contact Directory Mr Laurie Fraser MBE OAM for publication due to being late arrivals, or lack of room. Mrs Olga Greig OAM Opinions expressed by contributors in articles and reproduced articles are the Departments at ANZAC House Mr Richard Carter individual opinions of such contributors or the authors of such reproduced Membership: Kathy Clark 8.00am-3.30pm Mon-Thurs Mr Ian Mulholland articles and are not necessarily those of the RSL. 9287 3705 Mr Ken Parish Reproduction of articles (or extracts) contained in The Listening Post are Welfare: Margot Harness 9.00am-3.30pm Mon-Thurs Mr Arthur Rae welcomed, provided the source is acknowledged. The Editor reserves the right to 9287 3707 0412 009 191 Mr Mike Tonks accept, reject, sub-edit and re-arrange material submitted for publication. Senior Advocate: Jim Boland 8.00am-4.00pm Mon-Fri Mr Ray Ward 9287 3708 Mrs Donna Prytulak Restaurant/Bar: Nigel Von Bergheim Mr Dilwyn "Digger" Cleak OAM 9287 3714 trustees Presidents/Secretaries, Finance Service Officer: Judy Dos Santos 9.00am-3.00pm Mon-Wed 9287 3703 Mr Don Blair RFD ED Mr John Cox OAM JP With the advent of Mr Wayne Tarr RFD ED Editorial Information Mr Duncan Warren AM RFD VIETNAM VETERANS’ DAY Executive Editor: Nola Keen Asst Editor: Denis Connelly (08) 9287 3716 Mr Kevin Trent on the Admin/Asst: Caitlin Harnwell Advertising: RSL Advertising (08) 9381 7999 th Acting secretary 18 AUGUST Graphic Design: Type Express Printer: Rural Press Mr Gary Sutherland OAM It would be appreciated if you could forward some assistant state secretary photographs of your activities along with a short article After numerous enquiries, we have decided to publish Mollie Holst’s address. administration on how your sub-branch/group remembered “VVD” for Her article appeared on page 23 of the June Edition of The Listening Post. Mr Denis Connelly publication in our next edition of the Listening post Mollie Holst, Tors vei 41A, N- 3040 Drammen, Norway. assistant state Secretary As a result of a member complaining that we don’t publish many activities of projects Hoping you can assist. country Sub-Branches, it is very difficult when the Sub-Branches don’t forward Mr Gary Sutherland OAM articles and photo’s to the Listening Post. We need your input! However, some Denis Connelly Sub-Branches (6) did forward articles and photos for publication. Executive Assistant Assistant Editor Listening Post/Assistant State Secretary Denis Connelly, Assistant Editor Nola Keen 4 The Listening Post August 2008 together to form an organisation be too difficult to sell. If you would to safeguard promised repatriation like additional books, please do not rights and secure the welfare needs hesitate to contact Kathy at ANZAC From the of their fellow veterans. From that House. We do, however make one small beginning emerged the largest request: Please return all books, volunteer organisation in the country. money and unsold tickets to ANZAC President’s Pen This position is still held today as House by the requested due date. the next generation of veterans work We are subject to government Audit towards the same ideals as were set in and failure to comply with their 10 – 12 and would be independent. have a connection with a Veteran of With the 2008 Annual Congress place at its foundation. In Western requirements could jeopardise future It would be in place by August 2008 the Vietnam War. behind us I am delighted to Australia, and indeed the whole of charitable fundraising activities. and cover all veterans. The Council, acknowledge the feedback we Australia, the development of the whose operations would be subject have received from delegates and Sponsorship RSL parallels the history of the State. Membership Renewals observers who have indicated it to annual review would probably address 2 or 3 issues a year and would RSL members and the wider veteran Through its sub branch network 2009 as one of the best conducted – a network that had a presence in be independent of the Minister. It community enjoy wonderful support Due to production and distribution Congress in recent years. almost every town, city and village in was not expected that the Council from the our corporate sponsors and problems associated with the proposed the State – the Minute Books of sub would be a lobby group. the business world. This support three year membership card State From the quality of the various branches reflect the social, cultural and is evident at sub branch level as Executive has reviewed the whole speakers, the topics debated, the The Minister also indicated he economic development of the regions. well as State and National levels. matter of membership cards and their Annual Congress Dinner and of course would be conducting a review of Contained in these books is not only the organisational aspects of logistics We are keen to maintain that level all Consultative and Advisory the history of the RSL but the history distribution. We are negotiating with and administration we are encouraged of support and wish to encourage Committees currently in operation of the development of our State. sponsors to ensure the provision of to have drawn such positive comment local and regional participation in our the card, its added on value (by with respect to their role, function membership incentive and rewards Recognizing that the demographics and congratulations. We appear to and membership. way of member benefits across all have fine-tuned the operational side program. This request is particularly of the State are constantly changing. It was determined there was a need members) and its distribution is at no of conducting Congress and this has aimed at country areas where we cost to the League, its sub branches provided us with a solid benchmark CEO/State Secretary ask that members personally or sub to develop strategies to preserve RSL Minute Books and other Records, not or members. Our aim will be to have for the future. I make special mention With the resignation of Ian branches approach local suppliers an annual card distributed from State and ask if they are interested in only from the State Branch but from of the ANZAC House staff who Griffiths from the Position of CEO/ Headquarters following advice from supporting veterans and RSL the many sub branches that were or worked hard to draw it all together State Secretary we have taken the the members sub branch that Annual Members in their locality or when are our registers. Sub branches form – especially the ANZAC Club team opportunity to redefine the position Subscription has been paid. This will visiting by way of discounts or other and after a period of time close and who extended unequalled catering and and review the remuneration package. be done, as usual, on the Capitation incentive offers. If you have such a we can ill afford to see our written hospitality services to all throughout It is an opportunity to ensure we Return. As for the discounts available contact please let State Headquarters history placed on the rubbish tip or the Congress. offer the best possible package in an to members, we are endeavouring know and we will do the rest. The destroyed because no one wants them. endeavour to attract a field of quality to expand the number of outlets We will do it all again at the 2009 project has the potential to serve your An approach to government with a Congress to be held on 27 - 28 applicants who can best serve the offering member discounts to country League and the veteran community. fellow members as well as promote proposal for funding to preserve our June, 2009. Please mark this in your a business and their product and or history through an effective record and regional areas. The system we diaries!! Advertising has commenced and an have is still in its formative stages agency will conduct the selection service to a new market. management system resulted in a very sympathetic response and a financial so, please be aware member support process on our behalf. We expect to of a business offering discounts will State Executive have an appointment made sometime Country Visits grant of $107 000 to assist us in such Vacancies Filled a project. The funding will allow the greatly enhance expansion to country in September. Members from RSL Welfare, Pensions locations. We expect to also be able In accordance with Constitutional RSL to employ a research person to In the meantime I pay tribute to the and Advocacy Service have recently search out RSL Records at both State to offer specific membership cards requirements State Executive have great work our Acting CEO/State toured Country and Regional areas to life members, and annual cards filled vacancies not filled at the and sub branch level and devise a Secretary Mr Gary Sutherland OAM to assist Veterans in initiating or suitable storage and retrieval system. to Service Members, Affiliates and at Declaration of the Poll. I am pleased has done – in a voluntary capacity updating their Pension Claims. The a cost recovery, to sub branches for to welcome the following members to – for the past 12 months. group have also provided a mentor Remembrance Day issue to their Social Members. Unit the State Executive: service to local pension officers. We & Kindred Organisation ‘Members’ Director of Marketing: Scholarships have just been advised that funding Planning is in hand for the Annual will also receive a dedicated annual Mr David Messer has been made available for RSL to Remembrance Day Service and card. When details are finalized we Long Tan Bursaries of up to $9000 continue that service over the next Luncheon to be held on 11th will advise 2009 renewal procedures Representative - Pilbara/Kimberley: were recently awarded to six young Mr Campbell Cornish (Broome) 12 months. Currently planning for November, 2009. This year we will be through the Sub Branch Signal and West Australians to assist them in area visits is being undertaken and holding the Lunch at RAAFA Estate The Listening Post Representative - Great Southern : furthering their education and achieve our Office would be please to hear Bull Creek. The change of venue has Mr Peter Aspinall (Albany) long term study goals. The awardees from the members of the veteran become necessary to contain costs HMAS SYDNEY Representative - Lower South West: were children from Vietnam Veterans' community in regional Western yet not compromise the quality of Commemorative Service Mr Damien Dixon (Donnybrook) families who have proven their ability Australia whether they would like a the meal. Details of ticket sales are and determination to pursue their visit from the team. Numbers seeking available from ANZAC House. A special Commemorative Service Veteran in Distress careers in their chosen field. This is to be held in Geraldton on this service would naturally determine th year 53 bursaries were awarded the viability of a visit. Raffle Wednesday 19 November, 2008. The recent press report that a veteran throughout Australia bringing the Persons wishing to attend this Service spent hours on a trolley at the grand total to 250 awards since the Record Management It’s that time of the year again. RSL’s will be required to register their Emergency Department of a public scheme was introduced in 2000. Welfare Raffle. Shortly members who intention as soon as possible. As hospital clearly shows a breakdown RSL is proud to be associated with In a few short years we will be have so indicated a willingness to sell it will be a significant occasion. If in procedures that should have been this project and asks Sub Branches celebrating our centenary. In 1916 Raffle tickets will receive in the post you intend to be present you should well and truly known by hospital to advertise the availability of this veterans returning from the battles a book of Raffle Tickets to sell. With take immediate action to register and staff and veterans. In most cases assistance to deserving students who of the First World War banded attractive cash prizes they should not book your accommodation. veterans with entitlements should be admitted to a Tier 1 Hospital such as Hollywood Private Hospital. In case of an emergency, a veteran taken to an Emergency Department of a public hospital should have their condition stabilised then upon request transferred. In this particular case the patient should have been transferred to Hollywood, not left on a trolley. Veterans and their families should be aware of their rights in this regard. If in doubt please feel free to contact RSL Welfare Officer for clarification. Prime Ministers Advisory Council The Minister for Veteran Affairs, The Hon Alan Griffin MP recently held a consultative meeting with representatives of the veteran community to discuss matters associated with the establishment of a Prime Minister’s Advisory Council. The meeting, held at DVA - Perth was well attended with RSL being represented by State Executive member, Ray Ward who heads up our Veteran Affairs portfolio. The Minister made several observations relative to the proposed body and these included the fact that the body would not be large – possibly The Listening Post August 2008 5 Rosemary and Poppies: Plants with Special Meaning Plants and their flowers have played Rosemary, the plant, has considerable help remember their studies. This tradition We are the Dead. Short days ago a part of significant occasions in religious significance. It is said to be the has continued and on ANZAC Day, We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, societies across the world. Rose of Mary (Jesus’ mother) but there the wearing of small sprigs of rosemary Loved and were loved, and now we lie is nothing to support this belief. It has signifies that the wearers remember those In Flanders fields. What would a wedding be without flowers, been stated elsewhere: “According to the who made the ultimate sacrifice. or thrown rice? What about Christmas church, the Virgin Mary was sheltered by Take up our quarrel with the foe: Remembrance Day, November 11th, To you from failing hands we throw without holly leaves or a pine tree? Or, a rosemary plant during her flight from is also called Poppy Day and Veterans’ The torch; be yours to hold it high. the Olympics without an olive garland? A Egypt. Supposedly, when she spread her cloak over the herb, its white blossoms Day in other countries. The link between If ye break faith with us who die growing area of research is ethnobotony, in poppies and Remembrance Day came We shall not sleep, though poppies grow Poppies which the historical use of plant material is became blue. There is another legend that relates to the church. People said that the with the publication of the Canadian In Flanders fields. studied and as a result, the ancient wisdom Gunner/Surgeon Lt. Col. John McCrae’s plant would not grow to be taller than The handwritten copy of the original verse has given us among other things- quinine poem “In Flanders’ Fields”. McCrae at his Christ, who was said to be 6 feet tall, and published in Punch in 1915 can be found (malaria), coca (cocaine) and pyrethrum aid post in Ypres in 1915 apparently he wasn’t supposed to live longer than him, at: http://www.greatwar.nl/frames/default- (insecticide). For the returned and services took 20 minutes to write one of the most which would be 33 years. Supposedly, this poppies.html communities, rosemary and poppies have herb was present in the manger at the time memorable war poems of all times. special significance. Picture: http://www.greatwar.nl/frames/ of Christ’s birth” (http://www.anzacday. In Flanders fields the poppies blow default-poppies.html Rosemary is of special significance to the org.au/education/tff/rosemary.html). Between the crosses, row on row returned and services community because it Before Christ, rosemary was supposed to That mark our place; and in the sky Wearing the poppy signifies remembrance is associated with remembrance, especially strengthen memory. Greek scholars were The larks, still bravely singing, fly of the World War I and all subsequent Rosemary on ANZAC Day. said to have worn rosemary in their hair to Scarce heard amid the guns below. wars.

GOVERNMENT DELIVERS ON ELECTION PROMISES TO VETERANS

A number of key election commit- • Provide the income support supplement Other initiatives that were part of the ments will take effect from today, of up to $163.20 a fortnight to eligible 2008-09 budget, and were paid in the last delivering improved entitlements war widows and widowers who are week, include a $500 bonus to 310,000 to around 310,000 of Australia’s under 58 years old; and eligible veterans and bonuses of between $600 and $1000 to 17,000 carers. veterans and their dependants. • Make bereavement payments to The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan single recipients of the special rate These amounts are in addition to the Griffin, said the legislative changes and extreme disablement adjustment fairer indexation system and the 5 per cent demonstrated the Government was disability pensions who die in indigent increase to the base of all pensions at the serious about implementing its election circumstances. General Rate that was implemented in commitments to veterans and their March 2008. families. Two-hundred-and-seventy-thousand veterans are also about to receive the second “These changes are a result of the The measures deliver a number of increased quarterly instalment of increased Utilities Government taking action to meet payments to veterans, war widows, widowers Allowance, worth $125 per family. In veterans’ concerns and delivering on our and their dependents. addition 41,000 (mainly war widows) are commitments,” Mr Griffin said. As a result of legislation that has recently about to be paid the second instalment of Mr Griffin said the Government would passed the Parliament, the Government Senior Concession Allowance of $125. continue to consult with the ex-service will now: Seventy-six thousand eligible veterans and community to deliver fair outcomes that improved the lives of veterans and their • carers will also benefit from an increase Automatically grant war widows dependants. pensions to those surviving partners of in the telephone allowance from $88 to temporary special rate or intermediate $132 annually to help meet the cost of an Media inquiries: rate pensioners; internet connection. Laura Ryan 0437 863 109

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After school he worked on his fathers, the son of Mr William Beattie Gordon, Joseph, farm until he was nineteen. He then Member for the State Seat of Canning moved to Norseman WA to try his hand at Gold in the Western Australian Legislative Mining. Company to increase the momentum of its attack and Assembly. The Gordon family On the 9th of April 1941 Leslie (Starcey) so relieve pressure on another Company which was relocated to a rural property in Gingin had achieved his objective. The attack Starcevich, regimental number WX11519 joined attacking from another direction. The outstanding approximately 60 kms north of Perth. had cost 13 wounded and killed. gallantry of Private Starcevich in carrying out these the AIF, enlisting in Norseman. After initial On the 26th of April 1940, at the March 1942 saw the 2/31 return to training he embarked to Fremantle WA on the 9th attacks single-handed with complete disregard of his th own personal safety resulted in the decisive success age of 31, James Gordon enlisted in Australia and was quickly re-deployed of September 1941. On the 30 of December he th the Australian Infantry Forces (AIF), to the defence of Australia, serving in joined the 2/43 Battalion, which was posted to of the action. (London Gazette: 8 November 1945) Regimental Number WX2437. After the Owen Stanley Ranges, Papua New Syria for garrison duties the following month and initial training Private Gordon was Guinea. In September 1943, the 2/31 remained there until the end of June 1942. Private ‘Starcey’ Starcevich was a popular member posted as a reinforcement to the saw action in the capture if Lau with Returning to the Western Desert, his unit shared of the 2/43 with a liking for “good music” and 2/11th Battalion in Palestine where operations at Mankham and Ramu the fighting of El Alamein. It was during this a strong dislike for anything coarseness in any he arrived on the 13th of October. Valley. In July 1945 the battalion went action that Private Starcevich was wounded on the form. On the 27th of February 1941 Pte into its final campaign at Balik Papan th 17 of July 1942. After the War the Beaufort civilian population Gordon was reposted to the 2/31st (Borneo). rd erected a tablet near the spot where Private Battalion and arrived in the Middle In February 1943, the 2/43 was returned East from England after being formed While in the Middle East Private to Australia, and in September the Battalion Starcevich had claimed his Victoria Cross named Gordon was promoted to Corporal VC Road. at Tidworth the previous June and departed for Lae, New Guinea and was also campaigned in Syria. on the 26th of September 1941, and involved in the fighting at Finschhafen. After Private Starcevich VC received his decoration by on the 28th of January 1943, while in this action the Battalion returned to Australia in the Lieutenant Governor of Western Australia, On the 9th of July the already reduced Australia, he was further promoted to January 1944 and remained in North Queensland Sir James Mitchell on the 28th of August 1947 Company, under the command of Sergeant. until April 1945. It was from North Queensland Lieutenant N.S Stable, moved off in Perth, Western Australia. In the following While on Pre-Embarkation leave in that the 2/43 Battalion was sent to Borneo for a December he married Kathleen D Hardy. at 2100 hours and was ordered to decisive campaign. secure features overlooking villages of 1940 Pte Gordon married Myrtle, They had two sons and one daughter. In 1956 daughter of Lionel Troy. They had a Starcevich went to London for the Victoria Cross Amatour and Badarane against the It was during the North Borneo campaign that Vichey France. son. Private Leslie Thomas Starcevich was awarded the Centenary. After the war, James returned to Victoria Cross for his gallantry. In 1962 Starcevich took up farming sheep and At 0230 hours on the 10th of July the farming, but in December 1947 he re- th wheat. Company encountered heavy Machine This action occurred in the 9 Divisions enlisted in the newly formed Australian th Gun Fire which passed over head. As Campaign in British North Borneo with landings “Starcey” served for a time in the 11/44 Battalion he got closer to the enemy machine Regual Army (ARA), was appointed to at Luban Island and in the Brunei Bay area, of the Citizen Forces. gun position grenades were thrown. It the 30th Cadet Battalion, at Karrakatta (Western Australia) and later the 5th The attack on Beaufort, British North Borneo His brother Joseph served in the Australian Army was here that Private Gordon earned (now Malaysia) by the 2/43 began on the afternoon his Victoria Cross as was reported in Cadet Brigade Training Depot, rising th but was taken prisoner by the Japanese and to his 1962 rank of Warrant Officer of the 28 of June, and by dusk 1 Company had interned in, Japan. the London Gazette. advanced into the town itself, a Japanese counter Class II. “I always liked the Army 10th July 1941, near Jezzine night attack resulting in the Battalion being Private Leslie Starcevich VC passed away on life,” he said, “and thought I’d give th (Djezzine) Syria heavily committed which resulted in the company the 17 of November 1989 and was buried it another go.” He is the only VC recipient member of the ARA. being isolated. “B” Company was ordered forward at Esperance Public Lawn Cemetery, Western Citation: on the night of the 10th of July Australia. to its aid. It was during this action the “Starcey” 1941 during an attack on “Greenhill”, Sgt James (Jimmy) Heather Gordon was decorated the VC. Starcevich’s Medals are on display at the Army North of Djezzine, Private Gordon’s VC had two brothers who served in the Private Leslie Thomas Starcevich VC reads: Museum of Western Australia in Fremantle. Company came under intense machine AIF during the 1939-1940 War. gun fire and its advance was held up. Citation: Private L. Starcevich was a member of There is a photograph of Private Starcevich Movement even by single individuals James Gordon, VC passed away on 2/43rd Australian Infantry Battalion during the hanging at ANZAC House in Perth. became impossible, one officer and two the 24th July 1986. There is a plaque capture of Beaufort, North Borneo. During the References: men being killed and two men being at the Karrakatta Crematorium, Perth, approach along a thickly wooded spur, the enemy wounded in the effort to advance. The and on the 12th of July a plaque in was encountered at a position where movement off 1. Wikipedia enemy machine gun position which had his honour was unveiled in front of the Gingin Post Office. Later that the single track leading into the enemy defences was 2. Australian War Memorial Canberra brought the two forward platoons to a difficult and hazardous. When the leading section halt was fortified and completely covered year a painting of James by artist came under fire from two enemy machine-gun 3. They Dared Mightily- edited by Lionel the area occupied by our forces. Private William Dargie won the Archibald posts and suffered casualties, Private Gordon, on his own initiative, crept Prize, Australia’s most famous portrait Starcevich, who was a Bren Gunner, forward over an area swept by machine prize. His medals are privately held. moved forward and assaulted gun and grenade fire and succeeded in There is a photo of James Heather each post in turn. He rushed each approaching close to the post; he then Gordon, VC at ANZAC House, St post, firing his Bren gun from the charged at it from the front and killed Georges Terrace Perth. hip, killed five enemy and put the the four machine gunners with bayonet. remaining occupants of the posts His action completely demoralised the References: to flight. The advance progressed enemy in this sector and the Company until the section came under fire advanced and took the position. During 1. Wikipedia Encyclopaedia from two more machine-gun posts, the remainder of the action that night and 2. The Australian War Memorial which halted the section temporarily. on the following day, Private Gordon, Canberra Private Starcevich again advanced who has throughput operations shown fearlessly firing his Bren gun from a high degree of courage, fought with 3. They Dared Mightily, edited the hip and ignoring the hostile fire equal gallantry. (London Gazette: 28th by Lionel Wigmore and Bruce captured both posts single-handedly, October 1941) Harding. disposing of seven enemy. Afterwards this attack proceeded and by Published by the Australian War These daring efforts allowed the 0500 hours Lt Stable reported that he Memorial Canberra, ACT 1964 The Listening Post August 2008 7 From the Bunker History of the RAN

The Australian Navy had a humble beginning defending During this time the first task of the RAN was to keep the shipping on ships from the Royal Navy (RN) that was based in lanes open, protect Australian Sea ports and trade routes, after Sydney Harbour. From early settlement 1788 to 1859 the capture of German Colonies the RAN was directed to protect the RN provided Naval Defence. In 1859, Australia was Australian Sea Ports. established as a separate British Naval Station with a The RAN had also played a supporting role in the Gallipoli Squadron of Naval units in Australian waters. Campaign with HMAS AE2 (Submarine) becoming the first Allied These units were to be paid for and under the control of the Ship to penetrate the Dardanelles. It was eventually sunk by the Australian Commonwealth, later Government, and eventually Turkish Navy on the 30th of April 1915 in the Sea of Manoora and Australian Personal. At an Imperial Conference in London on the until recently its location was unknown. The RAN also provided 9th of August 1909 a decision was made to deploy a Naval Unit essential support and services to the evacuation of Gallipoli. of one Battle Cruiser, three Second Class Destroyers, 6 Destroyers, After the cessation of hostilities in 1918 a world wide scaling down 3 Submarines and a number of axillaries. These vessels were to of Military Equipment began with disarmament conferences and become the basis of the Australian Fleet Unit. culminating in the Washington Treaty of 1922. Under the terms of The first units reached Australian waters in November 1910… and the Treaty the Battle Cruiser AUSTRALIA was scuttled off Sydney in the following year, on July the 10th, His Majesty King George V Heads in 1924, however the Australian Government did add granted the Title of Royal Australian Navy to the Commonwealth additional Naval Vessels to the Australian Fleet. Naval Forces. It was during the 1930s that economic conditions forced the In June 1912, a third destroyer, HMAS WARREGO was Australian Government to take drastic action to cut spending. One commissioned at Sydney. 1913 saw the Battle Cruiser HMAS of these conditions was to relocate the Naval College from Jervis AUSTRALIA and Light Cruisers MELBOURNE and SYDNEY in Bay to Flinders Naval Depot in Victoria. The strength of the RAN Australian Waters. fell to 3, 117 personal plus 131 Naval Auxiliary Services with the On the 4th of October 1913 the newly commissioned AUSTRALIA Submarines OXLEY and OTWAY being reverted to the Royal that entered Sydney Harbour and later that same month control of Navy. these vessels passed to the Commonwealth Naval Board, hence At the onset of World War II in 1939, the RAN numbered 2 Heavy ending Imperial Control of Australian Naval Ships. Cruisers, 4 Light Cruisers, 5 Destroyers, 3 Sloops and a variety of During this same period The Royal Australian Naval College for support vessels, with 5, 010 personal. By July 1945, this number training of Navy Personal was established in Geelong, Victoria. This had increased to 37, 000 in all ranks. facility was relocated to Jervis Bay, NSW in 1915. The RAN distinguished itself during WWII with considerable loss At the outbreak of World War I (1914-1918) the Australian Navy of vessels, and 2, 170 personal in all theatres. Fleet consisted of a Battle Cruiser, 6 Light Cruisers, 6 Destroyers, 2 Submarines, and numerous support and ancillary craft. Those Since the end of World War II the Royal Australian Navy has served vessels of the RAN operated as an integral part of the RN in all in Korea, Malayan Emergency, Indonesian Confrontation, Vietnam, operational areas. the Middle East, East Timor, and the Solomon Islands. The RAN has also provided assistance and support in natural disasters in the The AUSTRALIA was involved in the capture of German New Pacific and Indian Ocean Regions. Guinea Colonies during 1914 was Australia’s only joint warfare operation with Military Expedition Forces. The current strength of the Royal Australian Navy is approximately 12, 000 in all ranks. At the outbreak of hostilities the RAN consisted of 3, 800 personal of all ranks, and at the cessation of conflict the Navy had 5, 263 References: personal serving, reserves provided 76 officers and 2, 380 for “home 1. The Australian War Memorial, Canberra, ACT service” and 51 officers and 1, 775 rating for overseas service. 2. Wikipedia- R.A.N History Long Forgotten Mementos One of our readers, Mrs Ilma Read from Salter Point, brought to The Listening Post the attached letter and “Mothers Badge” that she recently re-discovered while in the process of clearing out before moving. The letter is addressed to a relative of Mrs Read. Mrs Read thought that because of the letter’s date and heading that it might be of interest to our readers. As a result of the poor copy of the original letter, we have re written it below. Dear Miss Robins, On going through some paper the other day, I happened to come across your letter of April 28th last year in which you were good enough to notify the finding of a Mother’s Badge at The Honour Avenue, King’s Park. Although I referred in a press paragraph once or twice, there has been no claim made by the owner, and I thought perhaps you might like to keep the badge yourself as a souvenir. With best wishes for Christmas. Yours faithfully, D. N. Benson State Secretary 8 The Listening Post August 2008 Battle for Australia Day Proclaimed The Battle for Australia will now be in the Battle for Australia.” days of commemoration, Anzac Day and million was living with wartime controls on marked on the first Wednesday in “There were direct attacks on the Australian Remembrance Day, on which we remember their daily lives including rationing, restrictions September each year, the Minister for mainland, particularly in Darwin, and battles all Australians who served and died in wars, on movement and with many directed to jobs Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, announced in the Coral Sea and Papua and New Guinea, conflicts and peace operations,” Mr Griffin supporting the war effort. today. including Milne Bay and the Kokoda Track.” said. Details of commemorative ceremonies to be The entire Australia economy was geared Mr Griffin said “the Governor-General, Major Prime Minister John Curtin announced the towards the defence of Australia and industry General Michael Jeffery AC CVO MC (Retd), Battle for Australia when Singapore fell on 15 held to mark Battle for Australia Day will be from peacetime production to wartime had signed the proclamation for the Battle for February 1942. However, the first Wednesday published on the Department of Veterans’ Australia Day.” in September has been chosen by the veteran Affairs website www.dva.gov.au when events requirements. are confirmed. The proclamation delivers on a Labor Party community as it represents the first defeat of Australia was being defended by more than a election promise to declare a day of national Japanese forces on land in the Battle of Milne Background half a million full time Army, Navy and Air observance for the Battle for Australia. Bay. In February 1942, the arc of the Japanese Force personnel and the women’s services. The “Battle for Australia Day will commemorate “The Day will also be an opportunity to advance had embraced the Western Pacific, the part time Volunteer Defence Corps was also the service and sacrifice of all those who served remember the sacrifices of those on the home Australian Territory of New Guinea and the preparing for the defence of Australia. As well in defence of Australia in 1942 and 1943 when front, who lived in a time when the entire Netherlands East Indies. Australian economy was directed towards the as ten Army divisions, the equivalent of one we faced the gravest threats to our nation,” Mr In the following three months Darwin and division each was deployed in the Northern Griffin said. war effort,” Mr Griffin said. other Australian cities were bombed and midget Mr Griffin said Battle for Australia Day would submarines attacked Sydney. By July, Japanese Territory and Papua with support from the “This national day of observance will provide Navy and Air Force. tangible recognition and greater community not be a public holiday. had occupied the Solomons and landed in awareness of the contribution to Australia’s “This proclamation will not detract from the Papua. Laura Ryan Medial Advosor Minister DVA freedom and democracy of those who fought importance of Australia’s two most significant The Australian population of more than seven 0437 863 109 Football and the Returned Prime Minister's Advisory Soldiers’ League, 1920 Council all conflicts or issues. The start of the 1920 WA Football League’s At this meeting the following RSL motion was • The Council needs to be season was marred by the allegation that then read to all those in attendance: in place by August 2008. in the last game of the 1919 season the ‘That unless Mr Orr be reinstated as secretary • It is unlikely the Council East Fremantle ruckman Tom Cain had of the WA Football League and a notification will be working perfectly played dead for financial gain when East is received from the football league by the State from its inception and will Perth defeated East Fremantle in the Secretary to that effect, a demonstration is to be need to be reviewed after 1 Grand Final. held on one of the football grounds on Saturday to 2 Years of operation. next, such demonstration to take the form of a • If the Council was However another problem emerged when it public meeting to be held at the time the match became known that the Football League was successful in addressing 2 is due to start.’ intent on reappointing Joe Webb as its secretary. to 3 issues per year the Minister would regard this Joe had been appointed acting secretary on 4th Despite this the Football League once again as being an effective body. April 1916 during the absence of Billy Orr who decided to retain the services of Mr Webb and was secretary at the time. Billy had enlisted simply offer Mr Orr a billet of equivalent salary. • The appointment in the AIF and served in France as a Lance This decision was received by the returned of a Chairman will be Corporal with the 51st Battalion. He returned soldiers waiting outside, with groans of disbelief. important and although to Australia in 1918 after having been twice After further debate a letter from Mr Webb was it has been suggested the wounded. He was gassed at Villers Bretonneux eventually produced. It read as follows: Minister consider chairing in April 1918 and was wounded in the neck the Council initially he has the following month. At the start of the 1920 ‘On the suggestion of the Public Service rejected this possibility. season he sought to be reinstated as Secretary Commissioner I herewith tender my resignation • The Minister will work but the Football League decided to retain the as secretary of the WA Football League. This is a closely with the Council services of Joe Webb. This brought the newly position I sincerely regret as it severs a continuous particularly in the early formed Returned Soldiers’ League (RSL) into service of 14 years with the league.’ stages, but it will not action. In June 1920 the RSL urged all returned A motion accepting Mr Webb’s resignation was be controlled by the soldier footballers to boycott the competition then carried and Mr Orr was reinstated to his old Minister. until Billy Orr was reinstated. A crisis situation position. When news of this reached the Soldiers’ had developed and the problem needed to be Institute later that night it was greeted with loud • If the Minister does resolved quickly. cheering. The “Battle of the Secretaryship” was choose to attend meetings at last over. The Honourable Alan Griffin MP of the Council it must not The man at the centre of the crisis, William be seen that the Council (Billy) Richard Orr, had already proven himself This was one of the first of a long list of victories On Monday 7 July 2008 the Minister has a relationship with a both on the football field and on the battlefield. by the RSL concerning the protection of jobs for particular Minister given the Minister He began his football (Aussie Rules) career at returned servicemen. A clear promise had been for Veterans’ Affairs The Honourable could be replaced at any time. Perth Football Club and represented WA in made to Mr Orr that he would be reinstated in Alan Griffin MP, held a Consultative the Australasian football carnival in Melbourne his position when he returned from the war and Meeting with Ex-service organizations • As the Council will be discussing issues in 1908. He then moved to Subiaco in 1912 the compact had not been kept. It was one of the and interested individual veterans that could be considered by Cabinet it and played in the successful premiership teams planks of the RSL to see that returned soldiers about the upcoming appointment of will not be possible for the Council to discuss issues or likely outcomes with in 1912 and 1913. He retired in 1914 to were given their old jobs. It was a pity that a a Prime Minister’s Advisory Council. the ex-service community during the devote himself to the positions of schools’ coach returned soldier such as Billy Orr had to endure formative stages. and acting secretary of the Western Australian such an unpleasant experience following his This initiative has already been the subject Football League. In 1915 he actually umpired arrival back in Australia. He went on to give the of a number of written submissions by • If the Council chooses to discuss issues organizations and individuals based on a game (as acting secretary) when the umpires WA Football League many years of invaluable publicly it loses its independence and questions put to the ex-service community were engaged in a dispute with the League. service as secretary. In June 1936, the Football becomes just another lobby group. in the proposal to set up such a Council. On 5th June 1920 about 60 returned soldiers Budget described his contribution as follows: • It can be expected that there will be a who were members of the various football clubs Given the number of responses to this ‘An infinite capacity for taking pains, an Secretariat provided by the Department attended a meeting at the Soldiers’ Institute invitation to comment, solicited a number experience that has extended over many years of Veterans’ Affairs, although the size is in Perth. Here the State executive of the RSL of variables which will have to be considered and covers most aspects of the game, a flair still to be determined and will be based explained the situation with regard to Billy Orr. as part of the overall process. In opening his for organization, and administrative ability – on the workload of the Council. Mr J Cornell MLC of the RSL told the men presentation in Perth the Minister did make that Joe Webb now held two paid positions, as these are some of the characteristics of a man reference to the fact that his initiative was The Minister went on to inform the audience a member of the civil service and as secretary to whose finger remains unfailingly at the pulse of not a new one as something was in place of the possibility of reviewing a number the League. In doing so he was in breech of the football.’ along similar lines of one when Labour was of Consultative Committees currently in Public Service Act. It was hoped that this would BIBLIOGRAPHY last in Government. place and whether the Advisory Committee would have some of these Committees lead to the resignation of Mr Webb as Secretary. However, a number of points Mr. Griffin However, in order to overcome this the Football Anthony J Barker, Behind The Play… A underneath to assist in addressing issues. History of Football in WA from 1868 made were as follows; League then decided to make the position of What was important in reviewing these Secretary an honorary one. This greatly angered WA Football Commission, Perth, 2004 • The Council needed to be independent current committees were to ensure that the RSL and a motion was then passed declaring and transparent. representation on these were limited so that if Mr Orr was not reinstated to the position Ken Spillman, Diehards – The Story of the Subiaco Football Club 1896-1945 • Membership would need to be limited the same appointments are not made to a of secretary by noon on Thursday next (10th 10 to 12 members. number of committees? It was suggested that June) the returned soldiers would demonstrate Subiaco Football Club, 1998 a limit of two Committees be adopted. on the ground on the following Saturday and • Issues raised by individuals who are not stop play. The West Australian, April – June 1920 members of an ex-service organization Overall the consultation was greatly appreciated by those who attended and the Daily News, 20th and 29th Sept 1919 will still require consideration. All attention was then directed to the next Minister made every endeavour to address meeting of the Football League on Wednesday The Westralian Worker, 30th April 1920 • Small ex-service organizations cannot all issues and concerns. 10th June. The Victoria Park and Maylands- expect to be appointed to the Council. Peter Hopper Ray Ward Bayswater RSL Sub Branches agreed to be • The Council membership cannot cover present. (President Shenton Park RSL Sub Branch) Chairman Veterans’ Affairs Committee The Listening Post August 2008 9 RSL Official Opening of the Care Aged Care Facility at with Menora Gardens Village Sally Hamilton The official opening of RSL Care WA’s a lovely view of the newly finished landscaped Menora Gardens new Aged Care Facility gardens. was launched earlier this month with a The 118 bed facility will cater for both low and celebration led by the Honorable Allan high care residents in a state of the art complex, Griffin MP Minister for Veterans Affairs which includes a high tech communication of Australia. system used for “nurse call”, “emergency call” The wet and rainy day saw the contingency and telephone, a lounge and dining facility plan come to fruition, when it was decided to on each floor, extra lounge space and a large hold the gathering inside the new facility. This balcony overlooking luscious landscaped area turned out to be a positive decision, as it gave with a birds eye view of the bowling green. guests an opportunity to have a look around The 38 top floor units are “extra service rooms”, the beautiful new interior, following months of meaning that they are finished to a higher watching the building being constructed. quality, have panoramic views of the parklands The ceremony was opened by Ray Ward who area and come equip with a plasma television, welcomed guests and embarked on a large personal fridge and extra cupboard space. thank you list of those involved in making this dream finally become a reality. In the next stage of construction, extra services will also be added to the complex and will Next, RSL Care WA’s Chairman, Graeme New Facility at RSL Care Menora – Photo by Caitlin Harnwell include a doctor’s surgery, podiatrist, dentist Sherriff, delivered a welcome to guests and and a treatment room - this is scheduled for the explained that the completion of the new He continued to talk about the new concepts and hard work” in what RSL Care WA continue next six months. facility completes stage three of the Menora and standards that RSL Care WA are following to do was “held in very high esteem” by him Gardens project. and how exciting it is for him to watch the and that “Menora Gardens is a great place to The completion of the Aged Care Facility changes over the years and the next stage of live with a wonderful sense of community and follows a M$45 construction redevelopment Mr Sherriff went on to declare that RSL Care plans and updates that are in store. home.” project which began in 2002 on the site and WA is now “breaking new ground in the today the Menora Gardens Village includes the delivery of aged care.” A heckler in the crowd from Pearson Village He also made reference to the weather, said that she is happy with things as they are and commenting that the last opening he went to in Menora Community Centre, Chapel, 42 villas RSL State President of the WA Branch, Bill they could make changes there once she is gone Adelaide was held outdoors in “hurricane type and 56 apartments. Gaynor OAM RFD, was the next speaker, – she got a laugh from the crowd and a chuckle weather”, so he was very happy with RSL Care Finally the Honorable Allan Griffin unveiled a giving a brief history of both RSL Care WA and from RSL Care WA management who assured WA’s contingency plan – he finished his speech the changes that the Menora site has seen over plaque commemorating the official opening of her that everyone will always be well looked and he was in dry and warm environment. the Menora Gardens Aged Care Facility site at the last fifty years, with the site almost totally after, no matter what. th “transformed from the 1960s.” The interior of the facility is light, bright, 4.00pm on Friday 27 June to a huge round of Mr Griffin spoke next, explaining some statistics contemporary and follows a seascape type applause and good cheer. Mr Gaynor explained how the RSL acquired regarding Australia’s aging population and how theme, with sand coloured walls and beautiful A delightful afternoon tea followed the ceremony 4.6 hectares of land in Mount Lawley in 1960, important it is to have a flexible approach to pale coloured furnishings. in the Aged Care Facility dining area, whereby and built dormitory and institutional type aged care. accommodation which remained in use until The $16 million, unique, three storey guests mingled and enjoyed some light snacks 1990. He went on to say that “the vision, commitment establishment, boasts underground parking and and refreshments. Mivac Trust September 3, each year to be Here is some information which known as Merchant Navy Day we briefly discussed – thank you for agreeing to disseminate it far The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan civilians from threatened areas, and transported mariners the prominence in Australia’s wartime and wide and we are hoping the Griffin, today announced that the merchant supplies and personnel to and between areas of history that they deserved. recipients of this email can take seamen who served Australia in wartime conflict.” As with the recently announced Battle for part at the Luncheon and the would be officially commemorated with Mr Griffin said the date for Merchant Navy Day Australia Day, a national day of observance display at TWIN TOWNS and if the proclamation of Merchant Navy Day. was chosen by the ex-service community to mark they don’t live close to the Gold would not detract from the importance of Anzac The Minister made the announcement during a the loss of the first Allied merchant ship in the Day and Remembrance Day and would not be Coast then they can participate Second World War, which occurred the day war visit to Port Adelaide, where he met with a group a public holiday. via the web site www.mivactrust. of Merchant Navy veterans, Deputy Premier was declared in 1939. The United Kingdom and org. Kevin Foley and local MP Mark Butler. Canada also commemorate Merchant Navy Day The local member for Port Adelaide, Mark on 3 September. Butler, and the Port Adelaide Seafarers Memorial I am fortunate to be involved, as Patron, Mr Griffin said the proclamation by the Governor- Community Committee is already planning to an organisation MiVAC. MiVAC Thousands of Australian merchant mariners General, Major General Michael Jeffery AC CVO a march and commemorative service to mark was started by engineers and is now MC (Retd), delivered an election commitment served during the two World Wars on Australian, open to all and its work is to give to declare 3 September each year as a day of Commonwealth and Allied ships, as well as Australia’s first national Merchant Navy Day. merchant ships from other nations. Australian back to society in the specific area of national observance to commemorate the service Details of other commemorative ceremonies will land mine survivors. Many people and sacrifice of Australia’s merchant mariners. and Commonwealth memorials commemorate 435 Australians known to have lost their lives be published on the Department of Veterans’ have been witness to the horror, either Affairs website www.dva.gov.au as events are personally or via the media (particularly “The role of Australia’s merchant mariners was serving in the Merchant Navy. vital and often dangerous,” Mr Griffin said. confirmed. the Improvised Explosive Devices in Mr Griffin said that from this year, Merchant Iraq and Afghanistan) and choose to “During the Second World War they evacuated Navy Day would be an occasion to give merchant Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109 do something about it. Our work is in Cambodia, Vietnam, kindly consented to give me a precise account of the actions Sri Lanka and now Laos. Laos was the Memorial in and thoughts that led to the memorial which I enclose. He most bombed country in the theatre has also given me some photographs which you may find we served in and now there is an useful. He also stated that the costs escalated and the final enormous amount of unexploded Dorset figure for completion was nearly £ 10,000. bombs throughout that country. We Date 9th June 2008 are fortunate to have liaisons with I also enclose the photographs which may be of interest people on the ground clearing mines Mr. Denis Connelly, to your membership as evidence that after all the years the Aussies still are not forgotten and are still appreciated even in Laos. See the website for more www. Dear Sir, mivactrust.org. At this website one can in this sleepy part of Dorset! Further to my visit to your office whilst on holiday become a member of and/or donate to As discussed with you my interest was personal and in MiVAC in Australia and in response to your request for fuller information in respect of the photographs I offered you of connection with my aunt who met an Aussie called Pantal Let’s have a few tables from the the Weymouth, Dorset ANZAC memorial. who she met in Weymouth and emigrated to the Mundaring recipients of this email at the Luncheon area of WA to be married back in 1920. Unfortunately all I regret the delay in replying but family commitments and – Normie Rowe will host and entertain, my enquiries drew a complete blank the ill health of Mr. Ames has precluded earlier reply. as well as me speaking about MiVAC. You will see that there is a war grave cemetery also I have been to the local Dorset Evening Echo -who kindly maintained in the town. All the best provided me with photocopies of their articles. I have Sandy MacGregor MC, RFD highlighted what I regard as salient points. If you use these I hope that this is useful to you. Patron - MiVAC items please respect their publishing rights. Yours truly, Tp Comd, 3 Fd Tp Engrs Mr. Les Ames MBE one of our long serving councillors A.P. Taylor 10 The Listening Post August 2008

Margot Harness The Bush Wireless Former Senior Advocate As many of your would know, fortnight to eligible war widows • Eating Disorder (No. 47 of “Reasonable Hypothesis” versions. behind-the-scenes, who often don’t and widowers who are under 58 2008 – Reasonable Hypothesis get much in the way of recognition. WA was recently treated to This seems to be more than just a visit from the “still-new” years old; and version) Since coming to the Welfare Officer’s Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, coincidence. Have the new SoPs job, I’ve learned a lot more about Alan Griffin. • Make bereavement payments to and revoked/re-issued others: “tightened up” from their previous these fine ladies and the work they do single recipients of the special requirements? Well – it seems to • Drug Dependence and Drug – hospital visiting and raising money He has been visiting each State capital rate and extreme disablement be so. Take a look for yourselves abuse (No. 15 of 2008 – for all kinds of special projects. One adjustment disability pensions on the Web-site www.rma.gov.au in turn to speak at open forums Reasonable Hypothesis (RH)) “special project” is to make money made up of individual veterans as who die in indigent circum- and do a bit of comparing against available for me to buy toys each well as Ex-Service Organisation stances. (NOTE: The “Bereave- • Depressive Disorder (No. 27 of predecessor versions. Definitions year for the children of younger reps. By all accounts, he is a good- ment Package” – which is 2008 – RH version); are certainly far more specific these veterans and ex-service personnel natured man, with a genuinely keen a further six fortnightly DVA days. ‘Tis all a far cry from the • Acute Stress Disorder (No. 33 of suffering financial hardship. interest in veterans and his “Repat” pension payments, continued less-complicated era of 1994, when 2007 – RH) portfolio. after the veteran’s death, but paid the SoP for “Generalised Anxiety Unfortunately, this Toy Fund cannot in a “one-off” lump sum) – is • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Disorder” defined a “stressful event” afford to buy toys for grand-children Some recent legislative changes any more; it now has to be restricted usually only paid when there is a (No. 5 of 2008 – RH) as “an occurrence which evokes demonstrate the new Government’s surviving spouse/partner). feelings of anxiety or stress”. to just “first generation” children. seriousness about implementing its • Anxiety Disorder (No. 101 of But if you know of a family who will Sooo...... If you are assisting with election commitments to veterans An “ALERT” – to 2007 – RH) be “doing it tough” and unable to and their families. These deliver a any new VEA or MRCA claims afford to buy much for their children our Advocates and • Alcohol Dependence and Alcohol number of increased payments to for psychiatric disorders, be sure this coming Christmas, get it touch Abuse (No. 17 of 2008 – RH) veterans, war widows, widowers and Pensions Officers to familiarise yourselves with these with me on 9287 3707, so that I new or revised SoPs – including their dependents, and include: Perusing the “What’s New” page of • Bipolar Disorder (No. 25 of 2008 can put them on the list. (Please do the symptomatology criteria lists the Repatriation Medical Authority – RH) not delay, as I will have to close off • Automatically grant war widows they state AND the respective the other day, I was struck with the lists by 5 December, 2008). And pensions to those surviving • Adjustment Disorder (No. 37 of “Definitions”. fact that the RMA has “overhauled” remember, the Toy Fund is provided partners of Temporary special rate 2008 – RH). virtually every Statement of Principles by the RSL Women’s Auxiliary – and (“TTIs”) and Intermediate Rate CHRISTMAS TOY FUND (SoP) to do with psychological Naturally, in every case, the “Balance I thank them for their hard work pensioners; (my note: “at last”!) and generosity. problems and behaviours, over of Probabilities” version follows on The ladies of the RSL Women’s • Provide the income support the last eight months. They have and is the next SoP Instrument Auxiliary do a sterling job for the Keep on keeping on, supplement of up to $163.20 a introduced some new ones: Number, to those given above for the RSL – they are the “quiet achievers” MARGOT HARNESS Aboriginal Veteran Speaks at Mercedes College Anzac Day falls during the school holidays, but local I’ve gotten over it, and while it was rough for a time you have schools still remember and honour the men and to take it in your stride.” women of our armed forces who have fought for He is happy to talk about his experiences and likes to catch Australia. up with his army mates and join in the reminiscing and war stories. He finds the Anzac Day parades difficult due his war This year a special emphasis was placed on the sacrifices of th Aboriginal servicemen and women, whose dedication and injuries the standing around is hard for him. On the 24 April patriotism has lacked proper recognition. Mercedes College a few days before speaking to the students, Len had attended a followed this when it celebrated Anzac Day on Tuesday 29th reunion with his Korean War mates at a ceremony for Kapyong April, the first day back from holidays. In a day of moving Day, when veterans remember the decisive battle of Kapyong. services a few classes gathered at a time to hear Mr Len Ogilvie, Len gave Anzac Day a human face for the girls. His dignity, a Yamaji man and Korean War veteran, talk of his time in pride and gentle humour said more to the girls than any the 3rd Infantry Battalion. Len spoke of his war service and documentary. It was a lesson in real life. being injured and the death of his mate. He described his the streets after 6 pm and were unable to eat in cafes, barred Comments from Mercedes students about Len Ogilvie’s talk terror during the Battle of Pakchon when all night long he lay from associating with whites and suffered from many other on his life as a soldier and as an Aboriginal man in the 40’s wounded. Shot in the leg, arm and knee and feeling his blood barriers such as those in work and accommodation. He told onwards. draining away, he feared enemy napalm and friendly fire as the girls how he went to Mt Magnet to take up a job before Charlotte Pittman Yr 10 he waited alone for rescue. Len was many weeks recovering the war and the policeman wanted to run him out of town and Len’s talk was eye opening as I didn’t know that Aboriginal in a hospital in Japan, and returned to Australia where he eventually allowed him to work on the proviso he was out of continued his army service. servicemen and women were treated poorly when they returned town before 6 every evening. He was forced sleep in the bush. from war. Len has a special family connection to Mercedes College as It was this indignity that gave him the idea of a better life in his daughter, Cheryl (Lennox-Bradley class of ‘75) is an ex the army where he said there was no discrimination. “We were Gemma Wong Yr 10 student and works as an Aboriginal liaison officer in Catholic all Australians; we fought for our country, we were proud to It was interesting hearing about the war and what it was like education. Military service is a strong family tradition in Len’s do it.” first hand. family and he was proud to tell the girls that his grandfather, Len remembers his army days as if they were yesterday. The Rebecca Doyle Yr 10 John Ogilvie, served in the Australian Army in WW1 and girls asked him many questions about his life and his answers It was surprising to know about the injustices Aboriginal fought on the Western Front in France. Len had six uncles in reflected his honesty and ability to relate well to others. It people suffered back then. WW2, five in the army, one of whom was killed, and one in was a tribute to Len that he felt no bitterness, even when the Air Force. His brother, Wally, also served in WW2 and the after fighting for his country, he came back to be faced once Even though Len served in the army he still had to be off the Korean War. again with discrimination. Areas of inequality that Aboriginal streets by 6pm. Len was fittingly born on Anzac Day in 1928. He joined returned servicemen faced included not qualifying for the war Lyn Banker the army in 1948 to have a better life after suffering from service farms others could get, and that they could not drink Community Relations Oficer racial discrimination where Aboriginals were not allowed on in the pubs with their army mates. Len said “I am not bitter, Mercedes College P: (09) 9323 1367 COVER YOUR MEDALS When you place your right hand over ceremony decreed that all would salute the left side of your chest to honour the the Cenotaph as they marched past by fallen, you are not placing it over your placing their hands over their medals. “No heart - you are covering your medals, matter what honours we may have been in a gesture which owes its origin to awarded, they are as nothing compared the ceremony in London’s Whitehall with the honour due to those who paid on Armistice Day, 1920, to unveil the the supreme sacrifice,” he said. Cenotaph. The RSL maintains that tradition to A funeral procession accompanying honour the dead by placing the right the remains of the Unknown Soldier, hand over the medals - not the heart which had arrived from France the - during a march-past at a ceremonial previous day, was to march past the occasion or at a wreath-laying ceremony. Cenotaph, then proceed to Westminster Abbey. The regimental sergeant-major `Corvette’, RAN CA(NSW) of the Guards regiment conducting the Newsletter, January 2008 The Listening Post August 2008 11 Wings of Destiny RSL WA State Wings of Destiny takes us beyond Over the cloud wreathed mountains Charles Learmonth was appointed Congress Report Kokoda and into the skies over of New Guinea, we fly with Charles Commanding Officer of No. 14 Learmonth in his Boston attack bomber, New Guinea, and fills a significant Squadron, Pearce. He was killed on The RSL WA State Congress opened on Saturday the gap in Australian World War II She’s Apples. We observe the brave deeds 6 January 1944 when his Beaufort of No. 22 Squadron and the ‘Boston 28th of July at 9.00. Sub-Branch representatives from history. bomber crashed into the Indian Ocean Boys’ as they fight in the skies over Lae, near Perth. Before diving to his death, across the State attended, ready to debate issues ranging From the idyllic “Carramar”, we follow Salamaua, the Bismarck Sea, and New he radioed vital information that helped from compensation, to the use of the ANZAC acronym. Charles Learmonth through Geelong Britain. We come to know these airmen solve the mystery of the Beaufort Grammar, pilot training at Point Cook, well, and mourn their loss when they are The Congress was officially opened by His Excellency Dr Ken accidents. In recognition of his bravery, Michael AC Governor of Western Australia., who commented on and posting to No. 14 Squadron, shot down, die brutally in captivity, or an airfield in Western Australia was are killed in aircraft accidents. the attendance of so many members, saying it was, “… a reflection Pearce, Western Australia. We view life named in his honour. Today, Learmonth of the strength of The Returned & Services League throughout in wartime Australia, the air search for Airport is the alternate for Perth, and Western Australia.” HMAS Sydney, and the air war in New is the gateway to Exmouth, Ningaloo Guinea. Reef, and Coral Bay. He also commented on the ability of the RSL to help veterans and According to Wings magazine, Charles This is a story that needed to be told, their families in more and more ways. was lucky to survive his first action: writes Page. ‘The deeds of Charles ‘They still speak of Squadron Leader The Hon Alan Griffin MP also addressed Congress about the Learmonth and the “Boston Boys” Rudd Government’s plans regarding the Budget and Veteran Charles Learmonth’s blitz on Buna deserve more than a shoebox full of camp. Flak shot away his starboard Affairs. This included reviews to and increases in compensation aerogrammes held together with rubber payments. aileron wires, punctured his port tyre, bands. damaged his elevators, broke his rear National RSL President, Major General Bill Crews AO (Rtd) also gunner’s arm. The ground crew counted Charles Page is a retired Boeing 747 congratulated RSL WA on the restructuring of the welfare system 73 bullet holes in that Boston after it Captain with 15,000 hours of flying which allows the “… more effective use of pension officers, welfare time. He is the author of an earlier returned.’ officers, and advocates”, the youth programs currently in use, the volume of aviation history, Vengeance of From his tent in New Guinea, Charles “…effective relationship with the State Government…” which the Outback. wrote frequently to his brother John, results in considerable support to veterans’ issues, as well as the who had fought in Greece and Crete Wing Commander Charles Learmonth RSL Care facilities available throughout the State. before his capture. Charles was also an DFC and Bar, and the Air War in New incurable romantic and wrote to his Guinea by Charles Page The Congress was also addressed by The Hon John Ford, MLC as wife Marjorie almost every day. These Charles Learmonth completed 159 Published by Rosenberg, the Representative of the Premier, Opposition Leader Troy Buswell letters, combined with his diaries and sorties with No. 22 Squadron, and was ISBN 9781877058646, MLA, Shadow Minister for Veterans Affairs, Hon Bronwyn log book, take us back to those never awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross $35, paperback 416 pages, Bishop, and Kel Ryan, Vice President of the Queensland RSL. and Bar for his service in New Guinea. to be forgotten war years. Yet, although 88 b&w photos, 34 maps & diagrams. Congress also provides the opportunity to congratulate members a thread of romance runs through His Citation stated: ‘He has displayed Now Available, or order from all good tactical ability amounting to genius.’ and Sub-Branches alike on various achievements. Both Messer’s this book, the tragedies of war are not bookshops, or from www.rosenbergpub. Philip Loffman and Robert Elliot were awarded Meritorious romanticised or glossed over. After his return from New Guinea, com.au or www.amazon.com/books. Medals. Life Membership was awarded to; Donald Blair, Damien Dixon, Leslie Stewart, John Edwards, Francis Badger, Douglas Christmass, and Nancy Peacock. Many Sub-Branches were also Six Western Australian acknowledged for various achievements, which are as follows: Newdegate Cup- City of Rockingham Sub-Branch Students awarded Long Tan Colonel Collett Cup- Donnybrook Sub-Branch Bursaries Geraldton Sub-Branch Shield - The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, These students have proven their ability of Technology. Donnybrook Sub-Branch Alan Griffin, today announced and determination to pursue their Mr Griffin said 250 sons and daughters Mary Cornell Trophy- six students studying in Western careers and I am pleased the Australian City of Subiaco Sub-Branch Government has been able to support of Australia's Vietnam veterans had Australia, all children of Vietnam benefited from the bursary scheme since veterans, will receive up to $9000 them in their studies.” Ken Bladen Trophy- it was introduced in 2000. Bakers Hill Sub-Branch each to help them complete their Long Tan Bursaries will be presented tertiary education. to 53 students across the country this The scheme was introduced in response Hollywood Private Hospital representative, Dr Margaret Sturdy year. to the findings of the Vietnam Veterans' Mr Griffin said the Government also presented a cheque of $8,000 to the RSL for use in the Health Study to provide financial Spirit of the ANZAC Cadet program. Cadet Under Officer Ben recognised the challenges children face This year, six* students in Western support to children of Vietnam veterans due to their parents’ Vietnam War Australia have received bursaries Watson, the winner of Cadet of the Year 2007 also spoke of his with their tertiary education. recent trip to Canberra, sponsored by Hollywood Private Hospital service. including: The bursary is named after the Battle of and Australian Defence Credit. “The Long Tan Bursary scheme aims Long Tan on 18 August 1966, in which to help hard working students from • jarrod Carlson of Nollamara, Overall, Congress was a success with many decisions affecting the Vietnam veteran families to take up Bachelor of Engineering and Australian soldiers of D Company 6 future of the League made. For the Presidents full annual report the challenge of tertiary education and Computer Science, University RAR encountered and fought off an see pages 14-15. achieve their long-term study goals,” of Western Australia; enemy force of up to 2500 troops in a he said. rubber plantation north of the village by Caitlin Harnwell • Katrina House of North Beach, of Long Tan. Eighteen Australians lost “The bursary is awarded to students, Bachelor of Arts, University of their lives in the battle. including mature age students, who Western Australia; and have achieved good academic results and Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 who have overcome personal challenges • Antony Lockley of Midway 863 109 Editors note: *Three of the to successfully complete their secondary Point Tasmania, Bachelor of Long Tan Bursary recipients have education. Commerce, Curtin University asked to remain anonymous. for the Vietnam then at Bullecourt for other Anzac Services. 3 nts/4 days in the Somme, dep. 24 April. $1,180 p.p. twin share. Veterans' Day Visit most important Australian battlefield sites in the Somme, including Pozieres, Saturday 16th August Adelaide Cemetery, Mouquet Farm, Lochnagar Crater, & Bullecourt, 2008 with our expert battlefields guide.

On August 16, 2008 the Australians at Villers Bretonneux School Pemberton Sub-Branch is after the 90th Anzac Service this year. hosting the Annual Vietnam Veterans' Day. The March steps off at approximately 11am on Saturday and progresses along the main Join our expert battlefields guide for The Cobbers Memorial street of Pemberton to the War 12 days incl. Last Post Ceremony at at Fromelles in the Memorial for a Service. After Menin Gate, Fromelles, Passchendale, Somme Bullecourt, Pozieres, Villers Bretonneux, the Service everyone will move beaches of Normandy, and Paris. to the Pemberton Sports Club 12 days/11 nts dep. 27 April. $3,250 p.p. twin share. for lunch and fellowship. For more information contact MADE EASY ours the coordinator Warren South T on 9776 0647 or warbev@ Freecall 1800 673 337 Lic. TAG1524.CATO, EMTA www.madeeasytours.com.au westnet.com.au. 12 The Listening Post August 2008 The Little Known Kapooka Tragedy Buried beyond history COURTESY THE AUSTRALIAN Japan was still raging and the it to a detonator, then place the he had turned to “say something to the event are a mouldy plaque at Kapooka recruits were to be sent detonator into a tennis ball-size plug to my mate” and the next thing he Cameron Stewart the site, now privately owned and overseas once they had completed April 23, 2008 of monobel. recalled he was being “dragged out locked to the public, and a modest their engineer training. of the hole”. memorial at Wagga’s war cemetery.” IT was the Australian Army’s worst As he spoke, another instructor, It was week four of the 16-week accident, a tragedy so grim and sergeant Kendall, left the dugout The army was stunned by the carnage A brief military inquiry explored the gruesome it tore open the heart of training program, a period known as to complete a task. Kendall was and released a short statement that tragedy and could find no conclusive a country town. demolition week because the young walking back towards the dugout day saying 26 men had been killed cause as to how or why detonators trainee sappers would be taught how when a massive explosion and a in an explosion and promised an might have made contact with the When 26 army recruits died in to set and detonate explosives. wave of searing heat knocked him immediate inquiry. explosives. It was speculated that a 1945 accident, they disappeared to the ground. He knew what had It was also the 31st birthday of Although the country was distracted an instructor holding a detonator from the ANZAC story in a single one of the instructors, sergeant happened. by the war overseas, the Kapooka might have tripped. To prevent a blinding flash of gelignite, 26 Herbert “Jack” Pomeroy, a veteran tragedy was front-page news, and repeat tragedy, the army prohibited young lives were snuffed out in an “From my position on the ground of the Middle East and New Guinea nowhere more so than in the nearby the use of detonators in the same underground bunker at an army I could see that the roof of the campaigns and father of four town of Wagga Wagga. A mass dugout as explosives. training camp at Kapooka, near dugout had caved in and a portion children under the age of five. funeral for the victims was held Wagga Wagga in NSW. of a man’s body had been blown Rushbrook says that in the years there three days later. Pomeroy was bored with instructing to a position close to me,” Kendall since, the Kapooka tragedy has been When they buried the victims three and wanted to return to the front recalled at the time. “A lorry of wreaths and four flag- consigned to “quiet oblivion”. “Social days later, half of the population of line. But having worked in an draped semi-trailers carrying the memory and heritage favours those Wagga - 7000 men, women and Elsewhere across the camp, soldiers explosives factory he was considered coffins crept sombrely past half who die valiantly,” he says. “There children - lined the streets to bow assumed the blast was a part of a “conscientious and solid instructor” of Wagga’s 14,000 population,” appears to be a public awkwardness, their heads at the passing parade of training and it took several minutes for the trainee sappers. says Rushbrook. “After separate even shame, when lives are taken coffins. It remains to this day the for them to register what had denominational funerals, the coffins ‘without honour’. The national nation’s largest military funeral. happened. On the afternoon of May 21, were lowered simultaneously into machine that creates and reinforces Pomeroy led 26 young men out into But then something strange One soldier, sergeant Tafe, saw the prepared graves. The emotion of heritage, in these cases, remains a paddock and down some steps into happened: Australia forgot. smoke and debris filling the air the event continues to reverberate in silent.” a large but rudimentary underground above the dugout and raced towards local memory.” While Diggers who fell on the dugout where Pomeroy held his it. Mitchelhill-Green agrees. “This was battlefields of World War II are lectures. The covered dugout was The government and the media an awful event that does not sit remembered and venerated each 6.4m long, 5.8m wide and 2.1m “A grisly scene confronted him,” vowed that Kapooka would not be comfortably in our paradigm of ANZAC Day, the 26 souls who died high at its centre, its roof roughly Mitchelhill-Green says. “Checking forgotten. wartime death,” he says. “The Anzac at the Kapooka army training camp level with the ground outside. Bush the mass of bodies for signs of life, legend has become distorted over Agriculture minister E.H. Graham on May 21, 1945, were quietly timber supported the walls and he found sapper Allan Bartlett in the years. We forget those soldiers said the sappers had “given their airbrushed from the ANZAC story. ceiling, sawdust covered the floor, an upright position, imbedded into who died during their training in lives in the cause of freedom just as Their terrible fate was excluded from and the soldiers sat around the edges the southwestern wall by the force Australia, but their deaths are as assuredly as if they had fallen on the the official histories of World War II on old ammunition boxes. of the blast.” poignant as those on foreign fields.” battlefield. We will remember them and has all but vanished. They were young, mostly teenagers. Miraculously, Bartlett was alive. with gratitude and, by honouring Des Surkitt was a young sapper at “Though the tragedy lives on in local Before joining the army they had Two other soldiers in the dugout them, honour ourselves.” the Kapooka camp who lost several memory and in the minds of the worked as farmhands, tractor were also alive, but they died within mates in the blast and had to pack Wagga’s Daily Advertiser newspaper victims’ families, it has disappeared drivers, motor mechanics, milk hours from horrific wounds. up their personal possessions and stated: “Once in uniform, a person altogether from national memory,” factory workers, timber cutters and One rescuer observed seven intact is a soldier of the king and, should send them back to their families. says Peter Rushbrook, senior lecturer barbers. Sitting alongside these bodies seated against the wall with death come swiftly in peaceful “It was a terribly upsetting time,” at the Wagga Wagga campus of young recruits was a deadly cache their arms folded. “They looked surroundings far removed from the Surkitt says. Charles Sturt University and one of of explosives. like men of 80, their faces ash grey,” battlefront, a life has been given for only two historians to have studied For the next half-century he heard “On that day a considerable quantity he said. the king as surely as if the soldier the accident. nothing more about the tragedy. of explosives had been stored The others were blown to bits. had died in combat.” As the nation prepares to inside: a total of 100lbs (45.4kg) of “Then one day I was listening to “Nineteen were identified by But these promises quickly faded. commemorate another ANZAC monobel and 10lbs of gelignite, plus Macca (Ian McNamara, on ABC identity discs,” says Rushbrook. Unlike those who gave their lives Day, those who died at Kapooka a large quantity of detonators and radio) and they said there was “The remaining seven, being on the Kokoda Track or in the are the forgotten dead. “They had fuses,” says military historian David going to be a memorial service in unrecognisable, were identified deserts of North Africa, there was signed up and they were prepared Mitchelhill-Green, who examined Kapooka,” he recalls. Surkitt jumped through personal possessions, no national pride in remembering to give the ultimate sacrifice, so the Kapooka tragedy only after a into his car and drove north from including wedding rings, dental an explosives accident in rural NSW. it is wrong that they should be chance discovery in the National his home in Victoria to attend what records and labelled clothing, It was a tragedy that did not fit the forgotten,” says Norman Degrandi, Archives last year alerted him to the was then the 50th anniversary of the including braces and civilian Anzac narrative, and, as such, it was an army sapper at the camp at the tragedy. tragedy. underwear. Pomeroy was identified not consigned to history. time of the disaster. Having explosives and detonators in by his engraved watch.” Among the “few hundred” mourners “As far as I am able to ascertain, So what happened at Kapooka and the same dugout was routine. in attendance was the only surviving Having survived the explosion, there has been no previously why did a country that reveres its sapper, Bartlett, who was by then It was not considered risky because Bartlett was able to give evidence ANZACS forget their sacrifice? detailed published account of the profoundly deaf. The last direct it seemed inconceivable that the to the subsequent military inquiry Kapooka tragedy,” says Rushbrook, connection to the Kapooka tragedy The day of the accident began like detonators could accidentally come from his hospital bed. whose account is to be published has since passed away. any other at the Royal Australian into contact with the explosives, in the journal of the Australian and “He described how (another Engineers Training Camp, a rough which were stored on the far side of New Zealand History of Education “It was no fault of their own that instructor) corporal Cousins was bush base where long rows of tents the dugout. Society. these boys died,” says Degrandi. holding a handful of detonators were home to several thousand “We should remember them. We with blue fuses attached before the young army recruits. On this day Pomeroy began his “The official history of World War owe them that.” talk on the preparation of hand blast but was right on the other side II makes no mention of it, nor does In Europe, Hitler’s Germany had charges, demonstrating how to cut from where the explosives were,” the Australian Centenary History Cameron Stewart is The Australian’s been defeated but the war against and crimp safety fuse wire, attach says Mitchelhill-Green. Bartlett said of Defence. The only monuments associate editor.

VCES not only helped me to pursue my future goals of a higher education (with the ease of its financial grants every fortnight) VCES here to help but also allowed me to take advantage of its trust and grants in order to be involved in a study tour to Vietnam, as a part of Veterans’ Children’s Education Scheme (VCES) and the my Interior Architecture course. This not only allowed me to Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act Education study the architectural culture of Vietnam but also gave me a and Training Scheme. deeper understanding of the context of what my father had been through. I now understand, a fraction more of, what he endured, Armed conflict can adversely affect those who are involved and along with other servicemen and women, so many years ago. their families, but it is not in society’s interests for veterans’ children’s educational futures to be compromised. The children Shane is working as an Interior Architect / Designer and he has of veterans, and serving defence and peacekeeping forces, often Back row L>R: Gary Lindsay, Fred Betts, Lloyd Page, Ian Fraser, Arthur both a Bachelor of Interior Architecture with Honours degree have specific educational needs. The VCES and MRCAETS Edgar, Barbara Clinton, Neil MacNeill. Sitting L>R: Helen Davenport, George Halleen, Malcolm Crosbie. and also a Diploma of Building Design and Drafting. He said he board was established to work within the Department of would actively encourage other families to seek VCES support. Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) to help eligible students receive a decent still to be filled by the Vietnam Veterans’ Association, and TAFE. Shane noted that the staff with whom he had contact were both education. More board members are being sought from other groups such friendly and encouraging. The Veterans’ Children’s Education Scheme Board represents as the TPI Association, the SASR, and naval units operating a range of veterans’ and educational organisations, and many from Garden Island. Conclusion members are both veterans and educators. The VCES board In Western Australia, we have 440 students currently receiving There are a lot more success stories like Shane’s. The RSL wishes members are: George Halleen (Chair, Citizens’ Military Forces); education benefits and the RSL is keen to work with the VCES to see all eligible families use VCES support. Malcolm Crosbie, OAM, RFD (National Service, RAAF Reserve); board to publicise the services that are available. Rob Daniels (National Service, Catholic Education); Fred Betts The DVA has specific eligibility requirements for parents and (Vietnam, Legacy); Dr Neil MacNeill (Vietnam, Department One Success Story students to access VCES and MRCAETS. The easiest way to of Education and Training); Lloyd Page (Department of determine access eligibility is to call Helen Davenport 1800 555 Education and Training); Barbara Clinton (RSL); Dr Ian Fraser Shane Fragomeni’s father Carlo served in Vietnam in 108 Bty in 254 or to access the DVA website www.dva.gov.au. Veterans (Independent Schools); Gary Lindsay (DCP); Helen Davenport 1967-1968. Special circumstances saw the family apply for VCES (or carers/grandparents looking after veterans’ children) are (DVA); Arthur Edgar (Vietnam, DVA). There are two positions support for their son Shane. Shane said of this experience: encouraged to make the call. The Listening Post August 2008 13 The Returned & Services League of Australia

W.A. Branch Incorporated

2007 - 2008

In presenting the 92nd Annual Report a high degree of professionalism. group that undertakes a monitoring and updates and re-accreditation to be able to of the State Branch I am pleased to initiative developing role. The committee continue to practice. This is a major step in We are determined, at all levels of our has enjoyed great continuity and has a strong assuring veterans of a quality service. advise that significant advances have operations, to present a good public image by been made in our operations to ensure perspective of the needs of various groups Annualencouraging our Sub Branches Report and members within the veteran community. It is well Advocacy has become more complex we remain relevant and effective in to present RSL as a caring organization that particularly with increasing variations to dealing with veteran and social issues placed to initiate action to preserve the best takes the welfare of veterans and the future interests of the veteran. Positive relationships operative veterans’ legislation, and therefore in an ever changing social, economic security and development of our country have been developed with officers of the the skills necessary to act in the best interests and political environment. seriously. I am convinced we do this well. Department of Veteran’s Affairs and that has of the veteran need to be improved. The RSL is covered for insurance for any possible In reviewing our operations in the past year, provided a valuable communications link that has facilitated the prompt resolution of negligence claim made by a veteran but; this I am confident that the advances we have insurance cover could be deemed invalid if made will ensure the prosperity of the League problems. Our participation on consultative committees has permitted input to programs an Advocate has not actioned accreditation for years to come. The years of planning renewal. have resulted in the establishment of an and processes that have been of benefit to ethic that remains focussed on service and a both administration and to the veteran. Thanks to various funding sources we commitment to excellence. There has been careful monitoring of have been able to undertake professional the quality of health services offered to development of our staff, both salaried and This year marks the conclusion of a triennium volunteers. This has provided skill training that has seen unprecedented stability in the veterans and of the service delivery by the Department of Veteran Affairs consequent in claims associated with VEA, SRCA and governance of the Branch. That stability has MRCA. As younger veterans will come under facilitated the restructure and advances we upon its restructure. Problems that have been encountered have been notified and currently the provisions of the new legislation we are have been able to achieve across all areas of proud to be able to offer such a service. our operations. being addressed. We are indebted to DVA for the funding Our organisational structure has proved to be Through the State Veteran Affairs Committee, we have input into the establishment of assistance we receive through the BEST sound and has contributed positively to our The welfare of the veteran and his family was League priorities for budget consideration by allocations and for the assistance in interaction with the corporate environment in one of the founding principles of the League’s Welfare government. For years, RSL has been actively attendance at Repatriation Medical Authority which we now operate. We enjoy the benefits Charter That principle is as valid today as it lobbying for the government to redress the Conferences. The information derived from of support from the business community was in 1916 and over the past 92 years welfare many inequities evident in veteran’s welfare. attendance at these conferences is invaluable. yet we have been able to zealously guard our has been the prime cause for our existence. traditional role, that of serving the veteran At long last, through logically presented For the statistically minded, out of ANZAC community. The welfare operation of the State Branch was argument, and a Federal election we were House Pension and Advocacy Services in the recently the subject of a functional review. pleased to see that the Budget and election last 12 months, we received around 1500 The blueprint for our operation is The RSL The adoption of the recommendations of promises significantly enhanced support to telephone calls - enquiries and assistance – WA Branch Corporate Plan. It is a living that review resulted in significant changes to Australia’s veteran community. and devoted some 4500 man hours servicing document and subject to regular internal the manner in which Headquarters delivered At least five of our highest priority items veterans in their queries and claims. and external review. The Plan has provided welfare assistance to veterans. The changes were addressed and to direction and goals and continues to be the have also impacted on Sub Branch operations our absolute delight guide by which we measure performance and, generally have provided an enhanced allocation was made to against outcomes. method of attending to the needs of those redress the Special Rate seeking assistance. With reference to our Governance Statement, Pension indexation the Branch is administered on behalf of Funding sources for veterans’ welfare While being mindful members, by an elected State Executive and is generated by grants from Lotterywest, of the achievements Board of Directors. They are elected for bequests and donations from supportive realised through the a three-year term and, without exception donors and from the Returned Sailors, collective endeavours the elected and appointed members are Soldiers & Airmen’s Imperial League of of many ESO’s, there committed to the operation of the League Australia Trust Fund. Allocations from these are other issues that for the benefit of members and the veteran sources allow us to service the operations and need to be dealt with community. They are assisted by a network fund veterans accordingly. of volunteers and sub committees that strive and again, our input to to achieve positive results in their areas of While not wishing to be specific in funding the National Veteran’s expertise. All officers work in a voluntary allocations I can state that well over $130 Affairs Committee will capacity and give freely of their time and 000 is expended on State Branch Welfare be considered as we re- knowledge to achieve outcomes that are operations annually. And in the present order our priorities for consistent with our Charter. economic climate demand on welfare funds future budgets. can only increase. A feature of their involvement is a strict In recent times there has been a demand for conformity to the values of the League and We are indeed fortunate to have Mrs Margot RSL to become involved in ADF Transitional RSL WA programs, particularly the Integrated compliance with the State Branch’s Code of Harness as our State Welfare Officer. She is The RSL WA Retirement and Aged Care Personnel Support program. This initiative Conduct. This has resulted in the formation highly qualified for the position and offers Association (Inc) trading as RSL Care WA will ensure that those exiting the services Care of a clearly focussed team with a professional her services in a most professional manner. operate our Aged Care operations in WA and will be adequately integrated into the wider approach to the governance of the League in Furthermore, all contacts with our welfare continue to service the needs of the veteran community. Western Australia, officer are strictly confidential. and wider community in an exemplary Being the peak ex-service organization in Collections from the Annual Poppy Day manner. Still under the leadership of State Western Australia, RSL demonstrates strong Appeal resource a large portion of our Vice President, Graeme Sherriff the Board of leadership in the veteran community and welfare operations at State Branch, and the Management work tirelessly to manage the contributes responsibly with comment on Amelioration Accounts at Sub Branches allow current development projects with an ever many social and community issues. Without for on site welfare grants to be issued in Our Advocates provide a first class service increasing eye to our future needs, hesitation, RSL regularly challenges decisions accordance with the provisions of the Trust toAdvocacy veterans who seek their assistance. A Development at the Menora Gardens facility that have or could impact on veterans and Fund Act. In recent times compliance with highly trained small group of volunteers are continues. The new care facility was officially at all times have stood steadfastly for those the statutory requirements of the collection rostered to provide a daily service that is used opened on Friday 27th June, 2008 by the traditional values that are essential in our process has come under scrutiny and to capacity. This has resulted in a significant Hon Alan Griffin MP, Minister for Veteran society. processes will need to be set in place to allow increase in the amount of Advocacy work Affairs in the presence of representatives accountability to be demonstrated. being undertaken by the Senior Advocate from Commonwealth, State and Local In that context we continue to maintain a and volunteers operating out of ANZAC strong a-political position and as such, have A positive outcome of the review was the Government, RSL members, village residents encouragement of Sub Branches to deal House. It appears this increase is occurring and other invited guests. This was an historic enjoyed the on-going support from both sides because a number of Advocates either in the of parliament at Commonwealth and State with their own welfare applications. Personal occasion and a further milestone in the contact at the local level will allow support to RSL or other ex-service organizations are redevelopment of the village. We have one level. Through our Sub Branch structure not available for consultation at the local we also enjoy an excellent and supportive be delivered to those in need in a caring and more project at the Menora site and at this compassionate manner. As it is not always level. Furthermore, active referrals from the point in time the final approval processes are relationship with the many local authorities Department of Veteran’s Affairs and TIP throughout Western Australia, financial support that is required, immediate in hand for the a third Apartment Block of personal contact, at the local level will always training obligations have added to the current five floors with twenty-four well appointed Our responsible comments, coupled with provide a better understanding of the needs situation. Our advocacy work has been apartments. a willingness to address controversial issues of the individual. extended to country and regional locations places us in high esteem with the local media and regular visits by senior pension officers To accommodate veterans in regional Western and the general public. This has led to our and advocates not only service veterans, but Australia RSL Care WA is working with office bearers being regularly consulted on provide a much needed mentor role for local local communities to determine areas of topical issues with the invitation to make practitioners. need for Residential, and where demand is demonstrated. Aged Care facilities. public comment on social, commemorative, As a quality service is essential in pension security and veterans’ affairs matters. It is The Veteran Affairs Committee, under the and advocacy work, RSL has instituted an In the Peel Region planning is under way pleasing to note that, without exception, all leadershipVeteran of Ray Ward, Affairswith representation accreditation process by which those practicing for the acquisition of land adjacent to our comments and representations are made with across all services and key ESO’s is an effective under RSL are required to undertake regular Meadow Springs Nursing Home. If successful 14 The Listening Post August 2008 The Returned & Services League of Australia

it will allow us to embark on a building operation of small sub branches and this need program that will extend the nursing home by to be encouraged. . 30 beds to an 85 bed facility. Unfortunately, Sub Branches with licensed Clubs have engaged Affiliates into the Sub Our focus for development however is in the Branch environment when they should be Mid-West Region of the State with a presence Social Members of the Club. This has added in Jurien Bay, Dongara and Geraldton. to confusion with respect to Sub Branch governance. Affiliates are part of the Sub Land has been purchased at Jurien Bay and Branch and are there to support the Sub a three year construction program of 98 Branch. If they wish to be part of the licensed Independent Living Units on the site next to Club – that is a separate issue. the town’s medical facility should commence by the end of this year. It is essential that we strike a realistic position for Affiliates. They should be part of the Negotiations are continuing with the Shire of veteran family and enjoy the benefits of Sub Irwin at Dongara relative to the construction Branch life within the stated rules. I would like of a 55 bed Aged Care complex alongside all Affiliates to be issued with the Listening the town’s hospital, but site design problems Post, receive the same membership value and cost escalation are issues that have to be tool – it even won a trophy at the Koorda added benefits but this is not possible within resolved before any firm commitment from ANZAC Show for the best presented display. the present capitation structure. RSL can be made. The Membership and Youth Committee led The membership will need to be responsive to Since the refurbishment of the ANZAC Club by Olga Greig is responsible for the Australian this challenge if we are to show this group of there has been a marked increase in patronage. The Aged Care industry is not just about Club Cadet of the Year Program. From this Western supporters their true value in promoting and The enhanced environment has attracted not residential and nursing homes. RSL Care Australian initiative some seven years ago the progressing the League. WA is proactive in servicing veterans and the only league members to the facility but also program is now national and results in Service community through Home Care Packages good support from the corporate world and Cadets from each State participating in an in both country and metropolitan locations. the general public. We have been able to overseas visit to battlefields where Australian The Geraldton Home Care packages operate promote the use of the Gallipoli Room as a troops saw action. Last year the touring group from the Geraldton Village and the newly conference venue and this is proving popular visited Borneo and the site of the Sandakan established Eastern Hills Operations is centred with local business as a training course venue. Death Marches, The twelve interstate cadets Marketing still continues to be one of the least on League owned premises in Kalamunda. The commissioning of the Library facility is joined three local cadets, their chaperones Marketingdeveloped areas of League activity and one With government Aged Care policy moving well under way and we anticipate it will be and a media representative and embarked on that, if well handled, could deliver long term in that direction we are keen to see we are operational within a few months with reading, what they have described as the experience of benefits to the League and the membership. looking after our aged veterans in their homes research, internet and newspaper sections a lifetime. We have made significant advances in wherever we can available to members. In the interests of The financial support from Hollywood Private attracting a group of corporate supporters that preserving our collection it will be a Reference Hospital, Sub Branches and the interest shown are willing to assist the veteran community. We The Aged Care Industry is in exciting and Library - not a lending library. have offered them access to our membership challenging times with growth in Retirement by numerous local supporters of the initiative Staffing ANZAC Club has proved a challenge has ensured the success of the program. connections in the expectations there will be Villages and Aged Care Facilities at benefits for our members. Our supporters are unprecedented levels. Your State Executive in the current economic boom times. Unfortunately, Cadet Policy Headquarters Managerial staff in the hospitality industry are more than willing to be associated with that and The Retirement & Aged Care Association, raised several duties of care issues for our 2008 great Australian icon, the RSL. through its Board and Management, is looking in constant demand but I am confident that tour which caused the tour to be cancelled. forward to the many challenges ahead and our present manager, chef, permanent and The manner, in which this was done, from The obvious point of all our Marketing effort remains committed to ensure that RSL Care casual staff will form a cohesive team that will the RSL point of view, left much to be desired is to increase League revenues from which we WA is managed in a strong financial and viable serve you for quite some time to come. and has caused Western Australia to withdraw can continue to provide welfare services and manner so that that veterans and residents in It has been a hard task but ANZAC Club’s from the National program until the situation fellowship opportunities to our members. our care receive quality care at the highest financial position has shown a marked is resolved. possible standard. improvement with operational percentages In the meantime we will join The Quiet Lion moving closer to industry standards. It still has Tour and reward WA Cadets as we have done After all, there is no greater cause than the care some way to go but we are getting there. of our Veterans. in years prior to the National initiative. The committee also oversees the Cadet Efficiency Trophy. This is financially supported Defence by Australian Defence Credit and results in the award of a perpetual and annual shield to Due to the changed financial reporting period Our membership numbers are stable at around the most efficient Navy, Army and Air Force we Finance are again not in a position to present the 12Membership 000 members including affiliates. The Cadet Unit in Western Australia together with Audited Annual Financial Report to you for growth in new members is keeping pace with a cheque for $1000 to each of the winning consideration. This obligatory requirement losses through death of our aged Second Units. will be met at a later date in the manner World War veterans. We maintain our well resourced and aggressive recruitment program RSL values the contribution the Cadet prescribed by Law. It is planned to hold a movement makes to the youth of our State and Special General Meeting to consider, and if and this is paying dividends, particularly in country regions. is a willing supporter of rewarding excellence appropriate pass the Audited Statements in in achievement. mid October 2008. The concept of ‘Post Box Sub Branches’ has been welcomed by many smaller Sub Branches The RSL Community Link Program is The League’s financial position is sound and in danger of closing due to declining numbers. proving popular with Schools that assume considering the current economic climate that This format will see an RSL presence retained responsibility for community war memorials. is a great achievement. We have adjusted to the in the regional areas. A further refinement of Boddington and Ballajura have such groups challenges of cost increases attributed to salaries, operation of smaller Sub Branches has emerged and enquiries are being received from other cost of service delivery and generally operating with larger nearby Sub Branch offering groups who have expressed interest in acting a small business by staff rationalization administrative support to their neighbours. as wardens for town memorials. and restructuring our Audit and Insurance requirements. We have contained operational Of prime concern is the fact that we are losses at ANZAC Club but not compromised interested in knowing if there are veterans servicing the membership in this area. in need in the area so they can be serviced through RSL Welfare. No doubt we will The role of Affiliates in our organization Strict adherence to the budget and constant have to explore every option available to attend to the welfare needs of veterans living Affiliatescontinues to be hotly debated at National level. Unfortunately our Defence Committee has not reviews of income and expenditure profiles has Several Eastern States have not supported the been active throughout the year under review. limited any losses and additional income has in country locations and that appropriate commemorative services are conducted in concept while others have welcomed Affiliates, They have, however, met when requested been sourced through grants and sponsorship and incorporated them in their structure and to consider urgent issues and have made to maintain the services required by the cities and towns throughout Western Australia under RSL guidance. placed them under State Branch control. appropriate responses to Defence position membership. Other States, like us accept Affiliates at the papers. Our recruiting and welfare trailer, proudly Sub Branch level. The Branch is in receipt of financial grants sponsored by Hollywood Private Hospital In the next triennium the Defence Committee that assist State and Sub Branches. Through and Australian Defence Credit has been fully For a national organization it’s a bit of a will be restructured to give it a more diverse the generosity of Lotterywest, Department refurbished thanks to Keith Boxshall and mess! Unfortunately, the concept was poorly role that will encompass deliberations on of Veterans’ Affairs and ANZAC Working the group from Nollamara Sub Branch. This implemented as their status and involvement Defence issues, homeland security and other Committee we are able to support our many useful resource is available to sub branches, was not clearly articulated However, the related topics. It will also cover recruiting, veteran and community activities. All these schools and communities to promote RSL and number of Affiliates in Sub Branches retention and conditions of service will some bodies value the sacrifices and contribution to provide an educational resource for veteran continues to grow and we need to give them direction towards personnel support programs veterans have made for their country and are activities. Visits to country schools and shows due recognition for their contribution to our offered to members taking discharge from the always willing to support needy causes. have shown that the trailer is a great education organization. They play a major role in the ADF. The Listening Post August 2008 15

The RSL, at all levels, continues to support to work with sub branches requiring assistance funding ANZAC Day Services, not only our defence force personnel, both those on in administration and operational issues. As in Perth but also in regional areas are deployment and in reserve. Sub Branches a former country sub branch president he acknowledged. In particular, Lotterywest’s in close proximity to Defence Force Bases has a great deal of expertise in sub branch commitment to further enhance services have established supportive relationships with management and should be a valuable resource by funding Gunfire Breakfasts in Perth and Our parent body, The Returned & Services personnel and their families and honour that in this area. regional areas is a most welcome gesture that LeagueNational of Australia LimitedRSL is based in commitment when troops are on deployment. is certain to be taken up. Canberra. Its National Executive meets The WA State Branch financially supports Our challenge is to see that our organization continues to be represented in rural quarterly and is the policy making group the Australian Forces Overseas Fund that The support given to Schools and community of the organization. Through its various regularly sends gift parcels to our troops on communities and that the values we support groups by Sub Branches is also acknowledged. are not lost. sub committees it is active in attending to deployment. From all reports received, that That support is valued by the younger veteran affairs matters with government. Its gesture is very much appreciated. generation who have a thirst for knowledge professional approach to issues is its strength of the sacrifices made by their parents and and in this manner it invariably produces grandparents in the defence of their country. good outcomes. The leadership shown by our National President Maj-Gen Bill Crews AO We have been fortunate in progressing the is strong and through his endeavours good Our communication strategy with the closeCorporate link we have with Alliances Curtin University. membershipCommunications is centred on print media. The The research project “Remembering the Wars” bi-monthly publication ‘The Listening Post’ is now in its final year and the information is our main link with the membership with a collated from books, records, minutes and distribution of just over 12 000 copies. This is many other sources is forming an interesting supplemented with the issue to Sub Branches pattern that will provide local communities and Unit & Kindred Associations of the with an historic link to the families whose monthly newsletter ‘The Sub Branch Signal.’ relatives appear on town war memorials. This keeps those who attend Sub Branch In the course of this project it became evident meetings informed on the activities of State that the records of the RSL at both State and Executive and the Board of Directors with Sub Branch tell a story of the development respect to policy and other matters affecting of our State from the perspective of one the day to day running of the Branch. of the largest community organizations in Following a membership survey it was decided the country. Realising that unless some to act on suggestions to enhance ‘The Listening action is taken to research and preserve that Post’ by including articles that were relevant to documented history a vital link with the past our diverse membership – namely – all services will be lost. – all conflicts. With the expertise of a skilled With a significant grant from the ANZAC Day editorial board and production team we were Small Grants Scheme we have been fortunate able to meet that challenge and from recent in funding a project that will facilitate the survey results from the membership it appears research and preservation of RSL History. This as though there is great satisfaction with the project will involve sub branches and local outcomes have been achieved for veterans. new direction we are taking. We have even had communities where there were sub branches. National Executive has recently reviewed to increase the size of the publication to cater its operations in the National Capital. The for increased content and new advertisers It is an exciting project and I urge full support Our organisational structure is based on a from all members. existing facilities, built in the 1960’s with ‘add The magazine is still costly to produce and Subsub branch Branchesnetwork. Currently we have 131 ons’ as growth dictated have, in the modern distribute but it is well worth the price we In the past year we have enjoyed wonderful active sub branches on the State Register and environment proved inadequate for our level pay to keep the membership fully informed of support from the business community. We they all do a magnificent job in servicing of operations. Realising the need for change League activities. value their support as they value the sacrifices the needs of the veteran. In addition to sub developers were approached and a plan to made by veterans. We regularly advertise their branches we have established interest groups rebuild National Headquarters was prepared We are steadily progressing with the planned contribution and in return we ask that you that have undertaken RSL’s commemoration and endorsed. upgrade to our website. The Sub Branch Signal support them. Our supporters are here today role in small rural areas where there were Building should commence before the end of is now on the web and we plan to have our site and many of them have displays on show for once sub branches. While we regret the loss this year with National Headquarters moving as a major reference point for information on your inspection. of a sub branch we are delighted that the local into a purpose built modern facility, free of Our Membership Card initiative has produced community is taking up the important role of debt, sometime in 2010. a value-add bonus for the membership. A range remembering the sacrifices made by veterans of discounts is available upon the production in the defence of our country. Interestingly of a valid RSL Membership Card and this is enough is the fact that while we may lose a sub set to expand in future years. branch we appear not to be losing members. This year marks the beginning of a new triennium.State The Branch elections process for State We regularly receive contacts from members Executive has been completed and the about establishing new sub branches or Returning Officer will later announce the reforming one that has closed or in recess. appointments for the next three-year period. Commemorative Currently we are working with veterans in We will build on the strong foundations set The State War Memorial continues to be Wyndham, Walpole, Halls Creek and Jurien in place and chart a course that will see the Servicesthe principal place for RSL Commemorative Bay to assist them in their endeavours. League prosper. Services. Apart from the RSL conducted RSL caters for all veterans of all conflicts The recently conducted staff review has made ANZAC Day Dawn Service and Remembrance and our charter requires us to service veterans several recommendations concerning our Day Service the War Memorial and its precinct whether they are members or not. On that Staffing Profile and these will be implemented are used by Ex-Service Organizations and basis our work is truly humanitarian. Our as soon as funding arrangements can be community groups to honour their fallen. Sub Branches are the public face of the RSL resolved. Our ultimate aim is to improve the On Remembrance Day 2007, The Hon Prof quality of service we provide to members. David K. Malcolm AC Cit WA QC assumed and I am proud of the manner in which our organization presents itself in the community. We constantly seek strategies that will reduce duties as State War Memorial Warden. With the response time to member queries and the assistance of Phillip Skelton AM, Deputy Our Training Modules for Sub Branch improve the quality of advice given on specific Warden and sub-wardens from the Highgate Administration and induction of new office matters. Sub Branch they have assisted all user groups bearers is proving popular and courses are in in the conduct of services in keeping with demand in both the metropolitan and regional established protocols. RSL and veteran matters. areas. The result of such courses is evident in The next twelve months will be challenging However, I am convinced that the best ANZAC Day Services continue to be the confidence participants are showing in processing documents and dealing with issues Thefor the League inWay Western AustraliaAhead as we communication is through a personal well supported with reported increases in continue to implement our Corporate Plan. approach. State Executive members have attendances throughout the State. In Perth at the local level. As demand grows new personally visited many country Sub Branches. over 40 000 were in attendance at the ANZAC courses will be available to assist Sub Branches Priority initiatives will be: and Office bearers in their duties. We have now visited, at least once in the past Day Dawn Service and up to 50 000 attended • Support RSL Care WA in consolidating its the March through the City and the Service two years all regions and, time and funding Working in association with Sub Branches position in the Aged Care industry permitting we expect return visits in the near on the Perth Esplanade. The pleasing feature are the ladies of the Women’s Auxiliary. This • Continuation of strong alliances with future. The warmth of the welcome and the is the family participation that is emerging. If this trend continues the future of ANZAC dedicated group have for years supported Corporate entities diverse range of issues discussed certainly gave the RSL in social activities, fund raising and the Executive a greater insight to how RSL Day as a time when we can honour our fallen • Support Sub Branch operations through is assured. caring for and visiting our elderly and sick operates in regional Western Australia. veterans. Although diminishing in numbers regular visits and training modules; and To further assist sub branches we have tasked The generous local community support and they still fulfil a vital role and their work is • An enhancement of our leadership role in our Communications Director, Digger Cleak the financial assistance from Lotterywest in very much appreciated. the Veteran Community 16 The Listening Post August 2008 The Returned & Services League of Australia ANZAC Day Tours 2009 wings ready to assist if called upon. Country representatives, Peter Blenkinsop, TURKEY - Gallipoli Alan Gronow, Mike Tonks and Laurie Fraser 4 day tour from $495 5% Discount To the State Executive and League Trustees, are similarly thanked for their support over applies if you call thanks are expressed for the commitment 5 day tour from $595 us direct until the Acknowledgments the years. end of September made to the League and loyalty to the State 9 day tour from $995 Branch. The task of serving on committees I also acknowledge the commitment of and representing the membership is Winston James, Richard Carter, Len Copley 15 day tour from $1495 demanding but also rewarding. In particular and Olga Greig who also devoted much time the country representatives do a magnificent and energy to their respective portfolios. FRANCE & BELGIUM - Western Front job in keeping our country Sub Branches in Their contribution has materially assisted the touch. The reports that are furnished provide RSL over the past years. 11 or 15 days from $3395 the State Executive with a good overview of TURKEY, FRANCE & BELGIUM - Gallipoli & Western Front happenings at our many country outposts. Mention must also be made of the In May 2008 we lost the services of State contribution made by the Department of 19 day tour from $4265 (ANZAC Day at Gallipoli) Secretary Ian Griffiths. Following a period of Veteran Affairs staff for their work in the 23 day tour from $4695 (ANZAC Day at Villers Bretonneux) release from RSL for deployment in an Area veteran community. Later this year we will of Operations with RAAF Ian decided to lose the expertise of the Secretary of the seek a return to RAAF for employment. We Department, Mark Sullivan and our Deputy VIETNAM thank Ian for his commitment to the RSL Commissioner Arthur Edgar. We wish Mark 23 day tour from $4295 (includes airfares) and look forward to him remaining active in well in his new appointment and Arthur a ANZAC Day tour of south only also available the Bullsbrook Sub Branch. long and happy retirement. The work of assistant State Secretary’s Gary THAILAND - River Kwai & Hellfire Pass Sutherland OAM must be acknowledged. Finally, the Branch acknowledges the support 11 days Gary willingly assumed the role of State given to the League by our Patron, Dr Ken Secretary during Ian’s deployment in a Michael AC Governor of Western Australia. PNG - Kokoda voluntary capacity – a position he still holds, His Excellency is a willing participant in 11 day trek and tour from $2795 His loyalty, professionalism and willingness League activities and we value his patronage. to undertake such a role at short notice is very We take this opportunity to wish, His much appreciated. He also brings a new level Excellency & Mrs Michael well for the of expertise to the position and I am certain future. that those who have had contact with him at State Headquarters know what I mean. Well done, and our sincere thanks. Without specifically mentioning any Your State Branch is in a healthy state. It is particular staff member I can acknowledge Conclusionwell administered and enjoys the commitment them as ‘The Team’. The volunteer’s value of a dedicated group of willing workers. We your support and professionalism as does the still have challenges ahead but with the wider veteran community. determination of elected representatives and the support of the Sub Branches there is a I should also acknowledge the work of retiring bright future for the League. members. Trustee Bob Mercer retired earlier this year BATTLE TOURS after a long period of service to the League. WILLIAM E. GAYNOR OAM RFD His dedication and expertise will be missed STATE PRESIDENT 1300 139 450 but I am certain he will always be in the July, 2008 w w w . b a t t l e t o u r s . c o m . a u

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RARE_BOD12868 The Listening Post August 2008 17 From the Australian War Memorial

The Australian War Memorial is Memorial – simultaneously a museum, a until the Memorial officially opened on not only one of the world’s great commemorative site, and an archive – first Remembrance Day 1941. The stone still museums but also the focus for grew. stands in the Memorial’s Western Courtyard. national commemorative services. By Leigh Harris Almost a million visitors experience the Memorial each year, but many may be unfamiliar with the story of how this unique institution came to be founded. Charles Bean was the official Australian war correspondent during the First World War. He covered the disastrous Gallipoli campaign before accompanying the Australians to France in 1916. There he witnessed the terrible battles at Fromelles and Pozières in Avro Lancaster Mk I Bomber “G for George” July and August; soon he was confiding to Charles Bean working on files during the writing of Lord Stonehaven, the Governor-General of RELAWM31788 his friend Arthur Bazley his intention to the official history of the First World War, c. 1935 Australia, at the inauguration ceremony, 25 April establish a “future Australian war memorial AWM A05389 1929 AWM H15620 Today, the Australian War Memorial continues museum” that would tell the whole story of to grow and develop as an institution. The the Australian experience of the war. The Australian War Museum opened in Almost immediately after the Memorial Roll of Honour commemorates the 102,000 the Exhibition Building in opened it was too small. It had been designed servicemen and women who have lost their Melbourne on ANZAC Day in to commemorate only those who had served lives during conflict, some as recently as Iraq 1922, displaying war relics for a and died in the First World War, but the new and Afghanistan. New multi-million-dollar public hungry to connect with world war then raging would clearly have galleries, Conflicts 1945 to today being the the experience of the Australians to be accommodated. And so in 1952 the most recent, educate visitors by using the latest who had served overseas. It Memorial’s charter was expanded to include museum technology and display techniques. moved to Sydney in 1925, where Important collection items such as the bridge it remained into the 1930s. all wars in which Australians have been involved. of HMAS Brisbane have been installed in Meanwhile plans were made the grounds. And plans are also underway to build a permanent home for Collecting records and relics for the Second to renovate the Hall of Valour, which houses the museum and memorial in World War proved more difficult because the largest collection of Australian Victoria Canberra. In 1927 an architectural of that war’s more extensive and “mobile” Crosses in the world. competition was held, with a nature. Space at the Memorial also continued design budget of just £250,000. to be an issue and so plans were drawn up to There was no competition winner, add the eastern and western wing extensions with most entrants struggling to to the Main Building; these were opened in accommodate, within budget, 1971. the design brief’s requirement for a Hall of Memory that would During the 1980s the Memorial became an contain the names (and even independent Stautory Authority, with an The signpost near the intersection of ANZAC Parade and Limestone photographs) of the 60,000 increase in funding and staffing, allowing the Avenue, with the Australian War Memorial at the background, institution to begin new initiatives and to January 1945 AWM 085710 Australian war dead. One of the architects who had entered, increase its scholarly profile. Inside the bridge of HMAS Brisbane John Crust, came up with an In 1993 an Unknown Australian Soldier was alternative concept: the names would be Bean advocated that a Australian War Records interred in a tomb in the Hall of Memory. included on a Roll of Honour in Cloisters Today the Memorial is using new internet Section (AWRS) be established so that Then in 2001 ANZAC Hall was constructed lining a Commemorative Area. Crust and technologies so that people around the Australia could collect its own records and at the rear of the Memorial’s Main Building. another architect, Emil Sodersteen, whose world can learn about Australia’s military relics independent of the efforts of Britain It was designed to house large-technology involvement from their computer, including or any of the other Empire nations. This was vision for the building had impressed the judges, were asked to submit a joint design. objects from the collection. It features modern Facebook, YouTube and Flickr (see http:// achieved in May 1917 with the appointment light-and-sound displays, such as Striking www.awm.gov.au/aboutus/community.asp). of John Treloar as the AWRS’s first officer- An inauguration ceremony was held for by night which has the famous Lancaster The future of the Memorial is yet to unfold, in-charge. (Treloar later became the longest the new Australian War Memorial on bomber “G for George” as its centrepiece, and but one thing is certain: it will continue serving Memorial director.) The AWRS was ANZAC Day 1929. After the ceremony, Sydney under attack, which is built around the to live up to Bean’s vision for “the finest the seed from which today’s Australian War the Inauguration Stone was carefully stored Japanese midget submarine. monument ever raised to any army”. 18 The Listening Post August 2008 Hollywood Private Hospital By Dr Margaret Sturdy Director of Medical Services at Hollywood Private Hospital. Is Still Here For You

Most of you will have seen the recent where you require either emergency or elective We have a comprehensive cardiac emergency provided a generous donation to ensure the media interest about an elderly Veteran admission to Hollywood that you insist on service and if you are experiencing chest pain War Widows could be accompanied by a nurse who was kept waiting in a public hospital coming here. you can call an ambulance and request that and to assist with the costs of providing 2 they bring you directly to us. We always have emergency department for many hours. For elective conditions your GP will need to chaperones. The ladies and 2 gentlemen who a doctor on duty to attend to emergencies and participated in the pilgrimage described it as One of Hollywood’s staff members heard refer you to one of our regularly admitting if needed the on-call cardiologist will be called specialists. These can be found on our web- an experience of a lifetime. These sponsorships about it on talkback radio, contacted the into the hospital. site, and we regularly send GPs out updates. are a practical part of the way in which we public hospital and we were able to transfer It was my great pleasure recently to address acknowledge our long-term relationships with him immediately. This man’s discomfort and If you find yourself in the unfortunate position the RSL State congress. Those of you who the ex-service community. distress could have been alleviated much more of needing urgent admission to hospital, we are were there will remember me tripping over quickly if his GP or one of his family members often able to accommodate you immediately my words a little! However the sentiment Hollywood’s building programme is going very had contacted us earlier to let us know of his - especially if you are a Hollywood ‘regular’. was genuine and I do hope that you will keep well. We opened up 2 additional operating plight. All you need to do is have your GP determine Hollywood foremost in your mind if you need rooms in February, and opened our new GI whether you do need to come to hospital, Hollywood has been proud and privileged to to go to hospital. unit in June. The ward block is ‘growing’ out and have the GP ring us directly. We will of the ground, the additional theatre extension have been the only private tier 1 hospital in contact your specialist and arrange to have you At the RSL Congress I presented a cheque to the Perth metro region for DVA beneficiaries accommodated directly into a bed. If you have Mr Gaynor for our sponsorship of the RSL is taking shape and the car park should be between 1994 and 2006. Since the changes in not been here before, your GP can still contact Spirit of ANZAC Cadet of the Year. Benjamin opened in about a month. When we get the 2006 we continue to be the principal provider us, and we will find the most appropriate Watson, the recipient of the 2008 award, is a car park open we will start on the additional of inpatient hospital services to Veterans and specialist to care for you. If you do have to go to fine young Western Australian. I feel assured specialist consulting suites. War Widows in Western Australia. We have an emergency department for clinical reasons, that the future of our country is safe in the a broad range of specialties including an The take home message from today’s column let them know at the outset that you are a hands of young men and women of the calibre from Hollywood is - please call us when you emergency cardiac service. We are able and Veteran and would like to go to Hollywood as of those who participated in the Cadet of the willing to cater for complex elderly patients. soon as you are medically stable. Year program. (Ben, by the way, works at need us. We are open 24 hours a day. We will With many years of experience in catering for Hollywood as an evening ward secretary in do our utmost to accommodate you, but we your needs when you are ill, we pride ourselves If, for whatever reason, you are admitted James Woods Ward). can only act when someone tells us that you in knowing what you need and delivering care to another hospital, and you wish to be are in need. transferred to Hollywood, it is simply a matter It has also been my pleasure to have had a close and compassion in modern and well equipped I am happy for you to call me any time on out facilities. of discussing this with your treating specialist, association with the War Widows Guild with and if it is medically appropriate, we should be regard to their recent pilgrimage to Gallipoli 9346 6249 to discuss any Hollywood related I urge you that if you find you are in a situation able to facilitate your transfer very promptly. for the ANZAC Day dawn service. Hollywood matters, or to discuss any health issues.

The Hon Alan Griffin MP The Hon Alan Griffin MP Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Minister for Veterans’ Affairs

VA067 Saturday 12 July 2008

VA067 APPEAL TO SUPPORTSaturday THE WORK 12OF WEARYJuly 2008 DUNLOP New book tells life story of Australian hero APPEAL TO SUPPORT THE WORKThe Minister OF for Veterans’ WEARY Affairs, Alan DUNLOP Griffin, today launched a new book on the life of a great Barry Lehmann’s Australian and appealed to the nation to support the work of the Sir Edward Dunlop Medical New book tells life storyResearch of Australian Foundation. hero The Foundation was established in 1985 to carry on the work of Australian war surgeon Sir Western Front Trip Edward Dunlop. Affectionately known as ‘Weary’, he is renowned and admired for his The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, todayleadership launched while a prisoner a new of war book of the Japaneseon the during life Worl ofd Wara great II. His name and deeds “In April 2008 myself, my two brothers, David and Morris have become synonymous with compassion, courage, steadfastness and hope. Australian and appealed(both ex servicemen) to theand a friendnation Leigh toEldredge, support travelled the work of the Sir Edward Dunlop Medical to the Western Front for a number of reasons: The book, Weary, An Australian Hero by Foundation chairman Dino De Marchi and Melbourne Research Foundation. author Robert Hillman, is a brief biography of Sir Edward and is written for young students. These were 1. Attend the ANZAC Day Ceremony at Villers-Bretonneux, Representing the Prime Minister at the launch of the 2008 Weary Dunlop Appeal, Mr Griffin said France. the not-for-profit organisation had supported the health and wellbeing of veterans for more than The Foundation was established in 1985 to carry ona quarterthe work of a century, of butAustralian volunteers and publicwar donations surgeon were eSirssential to its continuation. 2. Locate any record of my wife’s great uncle, Pte Ian John Wood of the 11th Infantry Battalion who was killed at Bullecourt. Edward Dunlop. Affectionately known as ‘Weary’, he“The is Foundation renowned seeks to improveand admiredquality of life for for veterans his and their dependants through leadership while 3. a Locate prisoner any record of ofmy friend’swar grandfather, of the Pte JapaneseG Taylor of the duringmedical research Worl andd theWar promotion II. ofHis the personal name qualities and and deeds standards of excellence that 51st Battalion who was killed at Passendale in Belgium. Weary Dunlop came to represent. have become synonymous4. Attend the village of with Hamel incompassion, France where Leigh Eldredge’s courage, steadfastness and hope. grandfather won a military medal. “The vital work of the Sir Edward Dunlop Medical Research Foundation exists purely through the goodwill of volunteers and donations. I urge Australians to contribute to the Appeal by We were successful on all fronts. assisting in fund-raising, buying a lapel pin or by making a donation,” Mr Griffin said. The book, Weary,Private An Wood Australian is inscribed on the memorial Hero at Villers-Bretonneuxby Foundation and chairman Dino De Marchi and Melbourne author Robert Hillman,Pte Taylor at Menin is a Gate. brief biography of Sir EdwardMr De Marchi and said is the writtenFoundation grantedfor young funds to worthy students. medical projects Australia-wide each The ceremony at Villers-Bretonneux was sensational as it was solemn year. “Most recently we have funded research into prostate cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and the number of war cemeteries dotted throughout the Western obesity and mental health. This research assists not only the veteran community, but all Front have to be seen to be believed and the French and Belguims who Australians,” he said. Representing thelive Prime in the area are Mi mostnister welcoming atto the the Australians. launch of the 2008 Weary Dunlop Appeal, Mr Griffin said I located a small museum run by an aging Frenchman, (whose name The Foundation also hosted the granting of a scholarship by Swinburne University and the City the not-for-profit escapesorganisation me) in Bullecourt Francehad and supported gave him a photograph the of healthof Stonnington and wellbeingto Emily Petersen of for outstandingveterans achievement. for more than Private Wood and he will put it on display in the museum. a quarter of a century, but volunteers and public donationsAnyone able towere assist with essential the two-week toappeal its from continuation. 12-25 July should contact the Foundation I have attached a photograph of myself, Morris Lehmann, David on 03 9387 7833 or [email protected] Lehmann and Leigh Eldredge at the ANZAC Day Ceremony “The Foundation seeks to improve quality of lifCheerse for Mediaveterans inquiries: and Laura theirRyan 0437 dependants 863 109 through Barry Lehmann medical research and the promotion of the personalTo qualities receive the Minister’s and media standards releases automatically of by emailexcellence please go to minister.dva.gov.au/subscribe that Weary Dunlop came to represent.

Parliament House Canberra ACT 2602 Telephone 02 6277 7820 Facsimile 02 6273 4140 “The vital work of the Sir Edward Dunlop Medical Research Foundation exists purely through the goodwill of volunteers and donations. I urge Australians to contribute to the Appeal by assisting in fund-raising, buying a lapel pin or by making a donation,” Mr Griffin said.

Mr De Marchi said the Foundation granted funds to worthy medical projects Australia-wide each year. “Most recently we have funded research into prostate cancer, heart disease, diabetes, obesity and mental health. This research assists not only the veteran community, but all Australians,” he said.

The Foundation also hosted the granting of a scholarship by Swinburne University and the City of Stonnington to Emily Petersen for outstanding achievement.

Anyone able to assist with the two-week appeal from 12-25 July should contact the Foundation on 03 9387 7833 or [email protected]

Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109

To receive the Minister’s media releases automatically by email please go to minister.dva.gov.au/subscribe

Parliament House Canberra ACT 2602 Telephone 02 6277 7820 Facsimile 02 6273 4140 The Listening Post August 2008 19 KOREA- The Forgotten War PART 2 1951 Heavily outnumbered and attacked from three By W.L. (Bill) Tate sides A Company was forced to give up one Seoul fell on 4 January 1951 and the platoon position after casualties reduced their Australians, who had held their ground numbers from 30 to 13. However the company north of Uijongbu, withdrew to Yoda-nae had regained their position by 7 am forcing the 160 kilometres further south. enemy to withdraw over open country making them easy targets. General Matthew Ridgeway, the Eighth Army Commander, regrouped his forces in January Although C Company was attacked only once to carry our extensive patrolling. An offensive and D Company saw little fighting, battalion he had ordered on the 25th of January carried HQ fought desperately to survive. The the front line ten kilometres back north without commanding officer, Lt-Colonel Ian Ferguson, meeting major Chinese opposition. Five called for reinforcements but the Middlesex Australians were taken prisoner by the Chinese. Battalion were unable to penetrate the Chinese held area around the HQ. Under fire all night Inexplicably three were released after being the Regimental Aid Post finally made a break lectured and made their way back to UN lines. and reached the Middlesex position without Substantial gains were made by Ridgway’s any casualties. American tanks covered the offensive until the enemy launched another main body of the HQ as they withdrew in offensive on the 11th of February mainly around small groups between 5.15 and 6 am. Wonju on the ROK divisions. Continuous air Ordered to move its location at 7.15 am on General J. van Fleet, General Officer, 8th US Army inspects members of the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian and artillery attacks inflicted heavy losses on the ANZAC Eve, 24 April, B Company brought Regiment (3RAR), when bestowing the presidential citation in recognition of the unit’s action at Kapyong, enemy and Ridgway launched the UN offensive 39 Chinese prisoners with them. As the Korea. AWM 083857 ‘Operation Killer’ on the 21st of February. original position was required for a counter- Heavy actions were fought for Hills 410 and offensive the company was ordered back two was ordered to seize the 532 on the 7th of March by 3 RAR and the hours later. Following desperate hand-to-hand summit of Hill 317. They 2nd Battalion Canadian Light Infantry during fighting a desperate bayonet charge enabled the had to sometimes advance their drive towards the Albany Line. Enemy fire company to succeed. on hands and knees up pinned down A Company, 3 RAR on a steep the precipitous final slope spur leading to Hill 410. To relieve the pressure, D Company occupied Hill 504 and the but caught the Chinese by D Company made a successful assault which Chinese attacked them relentlessly for three surprise and gained their cost the battalion 12 killed and 24 wounded. hours but the company repulsed them aided objective by 5 pm after by the NZ artillery, inflicting heavy casualties. which they came under Seoul was re-entered by the Americans in Two members of the company were killed heavy machine-gun and mid-March and the 27th Brigade joined in and several wounded when American aircraft mortar fire. ‘Operation Courageous’, an advance to the wrongly attacked them with napalm after their north of the 38th parallel, on the 28-31 March. spotter plane dropped his marker in the wrong B Company was engaged During April the 3rd RAR took Hill ‘Sardine’ place. A company officer ran out under enemy in a furious fire fight on and Hill ‘Salmon’. They were then relieved fire waving the marker panel identifying the the 7th of October as it and sent in reserve at Kapyong on the Pukhan Australian position which quickly halted the advanced towards the River. two US Corsair aircraft. Hinge, west of Hill 317 but had gained control of The 70-year-old General MacArthur was Orders came for the companies to withdraw dismissed by President Truman on the 11th of it by 9.20 am. The battle after dark to the Middlesex area in the rear and had been won by the next April 1951 for flouting presidential authority. although closely followed by the Chinese all General Ridgway replaced MacArthur as day for the loss of 20 men elements of the battalion had reported in by from 3 RAR killed and 89 supreme commander and General James Van 11.30 pm. Fleet became commanding general of the Eighth wounded. Army. Chinese casualties had been high in the brief Maryang San, which was battle of Kapyong with some 600 killed and defended by the Scottish On the night of the 22nd of April the Chinese their division stopped by a handful of Australians and North Koreans launched their Spring Borders, was lost a month who had 32 killed, 59 wounded and three taken later and was never retaken offensive against the United Nations. North prisoner. of Seoul the newly arrived British 29th Brigade from the Chinese. suffered 25 percent casualties but stubbornly The American Presidential Unit Citation was Following the establishment held the invasion route for three days. awarded to three units, 3 RAR, the Second by the UN forces of a Battalion Canadian Light Infantry and Company strong defensive line across Resting at Charidae, the Australians were A, 72nd Heavy Tank Battalion. Many decorations making preparations to celebrate ANZAC Day the Korean peninsular from were awarded after the battle, including the coast to coast the nature and tempo of the war 22 men killed and 100 wounded and 2 RAR when at 8.30am on the 23rd of April the 27th immediate award of the Distinguished Service losing 10 killed and 57 wounded during May Brigade commander Brigadier Brian Burke was changed. UN forces were directed in late 1951 Order to Lt. Colonel Ferguson for outstanding to confine operations to those necessary to and June 1953. told to move his troops to defend the northern leadership and after the war ended the George approaches to Kapyong. maintain existing positions. Patrols raided and Just before the armistice the Australians’ last Cross posthumously awarded to Private H.W. probed enemy defence lines to capture prisoners Madden, a signaller attached to battalion HQ battles took place when both 2 RAR and 3 3 RAR were ordered to be ready to move in an for Intelligence purposes. The UN ground RAR were sent into the heavily defended Hook hour. for outstanding courage during his captivity. He forces of 18 divisions were outnumbered by 4:8 died in November 1951, weakened by savage position, a kilometre west of the Samichon River, Chinese and North Korean divisions but Allied the most threatened area on the Commonwealth Attacked by the full force of the Chinese beatings and starvation. air and naval power was used extensively and 64th Division, the 6th ROK Division which division front. The new 28th British Commonwealth Brigade effectively. held the northern end of the Kapyong Valley On the 23rd of July 1953 Brigadier Wilton broke formation, disintegrated and fell back was formed after Kapyong including the President Truman sought to have the other UN Australian battalion and on the 28th of July told his battalion commanders that an armistice down the Kapyong River. Two battalions of forces increased although some of the western agreement was near and to order only essential the 27th Brigade, 3 RAR and the Canadian 1951 the newly formed 1st Commonwealth nations wished to have theirs reduced. The Division assumed command of the brigade, the patrols. Heavy attacks were made by the Chinese Light Infantry, supported by the 16th NZ Australian Government argued that they were on 2 RAR and the US Marines on the night of Field Regiment and a company of the US Tank 25th Canadian Brigade and the 29th British unable to provide more than one battalion but Brigade. 24-25 July. About 2,000 enemy artillery and Battalion, were deployed across a front of 7 on the 25th of September ‘51, agreed to send a mortar rounds fell in the Australian area and kilometers. Five Chinese armies launched an attack on the second battalion ‘early in 1952’. another 4,200 fell exploded the following night central sector on the 16th of May but were Watching small parties of South Korean troops An Australian officer, Brigadier (Lt. General killing three and wounding nine Australians. forced to retreat losing huge stocks of supplies falling back towards Kapyong the Australians Sir Thomas) Daly, was appointed commander To assist in breaking up the attacks artillery and equipment. Also, ten thousand enemy settled in to their battle positions. During the of the 28th Brigade on the 1st of January fire was called on to the shell the surrounding prisoners were taken. night vehicles overloaded with troops jammed the 1952 when 1 RAR joined the brigade on the area . Dozens of Chinese bodies were strewn road. Asleep in a shallow trench, the commander Jamestown line. Brigadier (General Sir John) around the position held by 2 RAR when dawn Truce talks between the UN and the Communists came. Sergeant B. C. Cooper of 2 RAR was of C Company, Captain Reg Saunders, the first began on the 10th of July at Kaesong. By then the Wilton took over the brigade from Brig. Daly Aboriginal to be commissioned in the Australian in March when 2 RAR also joined. awarded the Military Medal for his leadership Australian battalion with the Commonwealth and stubborn defence which contributed to Army, was woken by the sound of small-arms Division was deployed on the Imjin River line Between January and April ‘52 3 RAR fire followed by the crash of tank cannon. the break-up of the enemy attack that had directly north of Seoul and patrolled across the unsuccessfully attempted to wrest Hill 227 threatened to overrun a nearby US Marine He realised the Chinese were in a good position river for the next three months. from the Chinese and the Australian battalions position. to cut off the companies when he could see carried out intensive patrolling. One to three To drive the Chinese from a series of hills patrols a night were usual as they fought to When the armistice was signed at 10 am on 27 flashes of fire coming from the direction of which gave them a view over the Imjin salient, battalion HQ. dominate the forward areas. July some 2,000 to 3,000 Chinese were dead at in September the division was assigned to the Hook and 2 RAR’s casualties were 17 killed 1 RAR’s first operation was a daylight raid on At 10pm the main enemy force reached the advancing further north to the Jamestown line. and 31 wounded. Hill 227 on the 2nd of July to capture a Chinese Australian perimeter where fighting flared up The difficult task of capturing the steep-faced prisoner, but no prisoner was taken and the Millions of casualties and untold civilian and inside the headquarters area. A, B and D Hill 317 was given to 3 RAR. US battalion- battalion lost three men killed and 30 wounded. suffering and death had been caused by the companies and the US tanks bore the brunt of sized units had been repulsed with heavy losses In August 3 RAR attempted to capture a war in Korea. As was recorded in Part 1, the the attack followed by battalion HQ. Attacking when they had assaulted it. prisoner but they too suffered casualties and Australian Army casualties were 1,526 of whom repeatedly the Chinese disregarded their heavy were unsuccessful. A company from 1 RAR was 293 had been killed or died, the Americans casualties and A and B companies repulsed On the 3rd of October the Australians began sent to take prisoners and destroy defences in had lost 23,000 killed and the South Koreans more than nine assaults during the night. their operation across a valley under cover early December but failed with almost a third 47,000. Fierce counterattacks regained posts which of darkness and the following day Hill 355 of the force becoming casualties. The American were overrun. Caught in the open as daylight was captured by C Company and the King’s My grateful thanks to the volume- Army command had ordered these and many such approached the Chinese were struck hard with Own Scottish Borderers. Preceded by heavy Australians: An Illustrated History by George raids but no prisoners had been captured. small arms and tank fire, mortars and artillery artillery bombardments on the 5th of October Odgers, The Australian War Memorial Canberra, forcing them to withdraw, leaving hundreds D Company killed at least 38 Chinese and Ambushes, bombardments, mine explosions and a former Army mate who wishes to remain dead. captured 20. Under Capt Jack Gerke C Company and patrol clashes accounted for 3 RAR losing anonymous. 20 The Listening Post August 2008 Notices

A Citizens Campaign WANTED Association. Our friend hates to work, which means the To Turn LAW into JUSTICE. Contacts are Mark Every on 0401117056; or treadmill in her bedroom barley gets used. We seek moral if not financial support from all Royal Australian [email protected] & Mike Apathy on Nevertheless, she swears by it. “It really works, the Ex-service community of Western Australia Engineers’ 0413700277; or [email protected] & she told me,” she told me. “I throw my jeans to change the current unjust laws and provide Association of Check the Bubblies Webb page at www.rancd- over it and they get smaller.” JUSTICE for the Victims of Crime. association.com for updates. Western Australia Inc Contact: Sheila Tarner Eric McKenzie National Secretary We need support from those who know the Whether you are a serving Reproduced with permission from Readers meaning of discipline to assist the law abiding RAN CD Association member or retired WE NEED YOU! The Digest July 2008 members of Our Community who are under association has a great fellowship and some PO Box 5116 Dora Creek NSW 2264 attack from out of control violent aggression on could be your mates that you haven’t seen for a 02 49156722 - 0428 899 376 our streets and in our own homes. number of years. Each state in Australia has a Brayden, my five-year-old grandson, scored Show your support. branch that you can join and are in contact with 15th Intake of Army o goal during a soccer game. Afterwards, I Contact: PO Box 235 Melville, 6156 -Tele. each other so that you can find missing mates. Apprentices congratulated him. 0450 631 230 The annual membership fee is minimal and We are trying to organise a 50th Reunion for “Did I score, Grandpa?” he asked. E: [email protected] will create no burden on your pocket. Why the 15th Intake of Army Apprentices - Whilst “Don’t you know?” I replied. not make an enquiry today to find where your we have found the majority, we are having Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club nearest branch is and where you can catch up difficulty in finding the following Musicians “Whenever I shoot at the net, I close my eyes. Inc., Centenary with those missing mates of yours. who graduated with us: In case I miss I’m not disappointed.” Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club will celebrate Every month the association has a newsletter Archer D J, Carnes R W , Robbins P & Sargent Frank Mooney its centenary in 2009. mail-out, the Purple Circle offers fantastic D J. reading. Catch up on all the latest military As part of this project, information on the Tried to go through the Website but it appears gossip, see what’s happening in and around that it is being redesigned. My friend Betty was looking after her four-year- military service (RAN, Army or RAAF) since your area, read about the latest engineering WW2, of present, past and deceased members Any help would be appreciated. old granddaughter, when Willow insisted that equipment used in today’s forces and plenty Betty sing her a song. Betty, who is tone deaf, is sought. more. Contact may be made by tried hard to dissuade her. Information should include: full name, date For further information contact: [email protected] of birth, club membership period, dates of Finally, as they were alone, she decided to give President: Mick Ryan 9307 2385 Regards John Jones military service, unit, overseas and operational it a try. She had sung only a few lines when service, and rank on discharge or retirement. Secretary: Neville Clark 9342 5808 Willow reached over, patted her leg and said, Contact: Owen Ashby “That’s OK Grandma. We’ll wait until Mummy (08) 93849484 or gets home.” E: [email protected]. LOST REUNIONS Miss Valerie Bell has had the medals of her late Jan Thompson father stolen. They are mounted, and from the Reproduced with permission from Readers Vietnan Concert and Workshop NASHO’s Reunion battles of the Middle East, including Tobruk. Any NASHOs that were in 13 Platoon C Digest July 2008 Harvey Dickson’s Country Music Centre All the Army papers are gone as well. Company Puckapunyul intake September 1971 Silver Medallists 2007 Western Australian Reward offered. we are trying to organise a reunion and those Tourism Awards Fortunately, my husband found a fix for his that are interested. ADVANCED WARNING midlife crisis: a new job. Unfortunately, it was Thank you in another city, which meant selling a house Harvey Dickson’s Country Music Centre, Contact: Bob McGuire FOUND where we’d had 8 happy years. Boyup Brook is proud to announce a very 9497 9879 or email I have posed the message below onto our News Getting ready for bed one evening before the special VIETNAM VETERANS CONCERT [email protected] Letter without luck. Can You help with a wider AND WORKSHOP TO BE HELD ON move, I said sadly, “I pictured us growing old TH dissemination. SATURDAY THE 10 JANUARY 2009 together here.” FROM 7:30 PM UNTIL LATE. Naval Engineering Reunion An Australian “Anniversary of national Services 1951-1972” medal was found in the grounds As he kissed me goodnight, he replied, “We EXCITEMENT PLUS: 2008 Canberra of the “Grato club” Campbell Barracks on did.” The Vietnam Veterans Very Special Concert All serving, retired and civilian members of ANZAC Day. It is inscribed with 5714500 Dawn Hadlock and workshop of a lifetime goes to air at 7:30 the Naval Engineering branches are cordially B J GUZDER. Please contact the Australian PM in the Bunyip Shed with its sensational invited to attend the Special Air Service Assn WA Branch Secretary, Reproduced with permission from Readers warm, cool, & cozy atmosphere. Naval Engineering Reunion 2008 Which will Kevan Logan by phone on Mob.0402 035 128 Digest July 2008 The show will feature John Schumann along be held on FRIDAY 14 November 2008 or 9451 8557 with other guest yet to be announced. Venue: Tuggeranong Valley Rugby Union Thank you. A woman called our hospital switchboard It is a chance for veterans to mix with old mates & Amateur Sports Club, Ricardo Street, Contact: Kevan Logan requesting an ambulance. “You need to dial and new mates along with the artists appearing Wanniassa, ACT, 2903 Time: 1730 (5.30pm) email: [email protected] on the bill. Camping is available at one of our 3- to 0100 (late) 000,” I said. bush camping sites full information on our web Cost: $30.00 per head (Includes drinks & finger “OK,” she answered, “And they’ll have the site. Further information about this event will food). Bookings can be made by contacting one phone number for the ambulance?” listed on our web site in November 2008. of the committee members listed below. JOKES Sonya Squirrell Sunday greets us with a nice clear day with The preferred method of payment is EFT, Have you ever been guilty of looking at others fresh country air, birds singing, and Kangaroos cheque or cash. your own age and thinking, surely I can’t look Reproduced with permission from grazing. The day starts with a meet and greet, EFT Details - BSB 802 397 - Account 681137 that old? Well… You’ll love this one. Readers Digest July 2008 continues with music and veteran related workshops, plus entertainment. Account Name – Naval Engineering Reunion My name is Alice Smith and I was sitting in the Important - Please Enter Your Name in the waiting room for my first appointment with a With all the new technology regarding fertility, Experience the warm cosy undercover venue, new dentist. I noticed his DDS diploma, which fantastic atmosphere. Also, enjoy Licensed comment or note section, cheques made payable a 69 year old woman was able to give birth to to “Naval Engineering Reunion” and forwarded bore his full name. Suddenly, I remembered a a baby recently. When she was discharged from Bar-Hot Food & Drinks along with Bush tall, handsome, dark-haired boy with the same Camping. to: Glenn Murch 25 Alison Ashby Cr Banks the hospital and went home her relatives came ACT 2906 name had been in my high school class some You can book online November 2008. to visit. Payment is requested no later than Friday 7 30-odd years ago. Log on to www.harveydickson.com.au and November 2008 Could he be the same guy I had a secret crush “May we see the new baby?” one asked. click bookings or alternatively 08-97651125 Contact: Glenn Murch on, way back then? “Not yet”, replied the mother. “I’ll make coffee for bookings and enquires via telephone. and we can chat for a while first.” Conditions do apply. (02) 62611675 wk Upon seeing him, however, I quickly discarded any such thought. This balding grey-haired Ticket prices are due to be announced on our Email: [email protected] Thirty minutes had passed, and another relative man with the deeply lined face was way too old web site in November 08. Adults or 15 years asked, “May we see the new baby now?” to have been my classmate. After he examined and below RAAF Photographers’ Reunion my teeth, I asked him if he had attended “No, not yet,” the mother answered. 2007 was an extremely successful year for Plotters, Photographer, Interpreters and Allied Morgan Park High School. Growing impatient they asked, “Well when can Harvey Dickson’s, we had sensational year for we see the baby?” concerts, rodeos, tours and other events. We Musterings 14th October 2009 to 21st October “Yes. Yes, I did. I’m a Mustang,” he gleamed had visitors drop in from all around Australia 2009 at Caloundra, Sunshine Coast, Queensland with pride. “When she cries,” she told them. Low key activities with a dinner on the and around the world. Harvey, Rose, and I “When did you graduate?” I asked. “When she cries!?” they demanded. “Why do would like to thank all those people and hope Saturday He answered, “In 1975. Why do you ask?” we have to wait until she cries?” to see them again. Come for as long as you are able to and relive Harvey Dickson’s Country Music Centre in the memories. “You were in my class!” I exclaimed. “Because… I’ve forgotten where I put her.” Boyup Brook, Western Australia is also working Received from Highgate Sub-Branch Thankyou. He looked at me closely. Then, that ugly, old, farm, established in 1885, and is now the home bald, wrinkled, fat ass, greasy haired, decrepit of Harvey and Rose Dickson. Contact: Barry Ditchburn son-of-a-bitch asked, “What did you teach?” After I asked for a 200 gram trout fillet at my Harvey Dickson’s Country Music Centre is now [email protected] or into its 24th year and 2008 has generated huge 165 Hotspur Crescent Little Mountain local supermarkets seafood counter, the assistant interest. Queensland 4551 Even at the age of 88, my mother was extremely picked one out of a pile and set it on the scales. vain about her appearance. At a party an old It weighed precisely that. Thank You, friend exclaimed, “Edith, you haven’t changed Harvey Dickson’s County Music Centre Royal Australian Navy Clearance a bit in 20 years.” Impressed, I asked, “How did you know?” 5kms out of Boyup Brook on the Boyup Divers Reunion Looking pleased with himself, he declared, “I’m Brook- Arthur River Rd, “Oh,” said Mum, horrified. “I hope I didn’t A national reunion of all qualified look like this 20 years ago.” psychotic.” P.O.Box 17 Boyup Brook W.A. 6244 RAN Clearance Divers and Associate Gladys Hocutt Phone/Fax 08-97651125. members has been organised for the Contact: Jim Brading E: [email protected] 17th -21st June 2009 in Darwin by the NT CD Reproduced with permission from Reproduced with permission from Readers W: www.harveydickson.com.au Readers Digest July 2008 Digest July 2008 The Listening Post August 2008 21 Poetry Subiaco Sub Branch is Subiaco Sub Branch Written in Blood celebrated its 90th Anniversary on the 17th Winds blow gently over hills once green May 2008 at a formal 90 years old luncheon at Rialto’s Sun shines brightly on the ground’s red sheen restaurant in Subiaco. Bodies lie broken in the place they fell Special guests included What once was a haven now is a hell Co Patron Her worship the Mayor of Subiaco Mrs Men carry comrades broken and bound Heather Henderson and her husband Richard, Co With moaning and weeping the occasional sound Patron Ms. Sue Walker All wish that the carnage would come to an end MLA the member for Nedlands, Mr Ray Ward So that the lives ripped apart could finally mend representing the State President Mr Bill Gaynor, Years pass quietly as the grass over-grows Affiliate member Mr Red poppies dance from the new wind that blows Charles Ashe from Ireland, Mr Eric Kelly a nephew People remember, don’t try to forget of one of the members also from Ireland, Mr Kim That the darkness of war brings a dark silhouette Sadlier a great nephew of So here we are, so many years from then Cliff Sadlier VC and his wife Kerry,Mrs Noelle With the hope that the tragedy wont happen again Edgecombe a niece of Cliff With the wish of a peace and a life that is hard to find Sadlier and her husband John, Mr Mark McGowan But a will and determination not to be blind great grandson of Charles Stokes DCM and his wife So we open our minds on the day that we fought Beverley. With the goal that our children will be taught Mr Ray Ward presented That the price of your life should not be so high Sub Branch President Dennis Williams with a That for you to live another man should die 90th Anniversary certificate from the National Body to mark this special occasion. Bella Barnaby Additional presentations were also made by The This was reproduced from Have a Go Newspaper, Mayor Mrs Henderson, Mr Volume 17, No 12, Issue No 195 June 2008, with the Mark Mcgowan and Mr permission of Bella Barnaby. Kim Sadlier. ANNIVERSARY DINNER Shoalhaven Crew Members Wanted The Turning Point - 90 Years On The Battle of Hamel on 4 coordinated with massive effect. July 1918 was the ‘turning This became the model for the point’ for Allied Victory series of victories which followed on the Western Front of over the ‘hundred days’ from 8 the First World War. Today August until Allied victory on commemorates 90 years 11 November 1918. since the Battle. Describing the complexity Under the command of of commanding a modern Lieutenant General John operation of war, Monash Monash, three Australian later wrote, “A perfect modern infantry brigades, with American battle plan is like nothing and British troops, launched an so much as a score for an attack to straighten a section orchestral composition, where of the front line, immediately the various arms and units are south of the River Somme. the instruments, and the tasks they perform are their respective The Battle of Hamel is significant musical phrases.” His job was to because it was the first time the conduct the orchestra and bring Allies successfully conducted an each of the instruments into the all arms battle. Tanks, aircraft, operation at the right time. artillery, and machine guns were What: Interviews available with Memorial historians Attributable quotes available in download centre Historical images available in download centre BetaSP available on request URL: www.awm.gov.au/media Username: media Password: anzac2008 Contact: Leigh Harris (02) 6243 4575 or 0409 600 038 [email protected] 22 The Listening Post August 2008 War Widow's Guild of Australia Bluey’s WA Inc Gallipoli Tour 2008 War On 17 April 2008 the first tour of Gallipoli organised by of the tour culminated with our attendance at the Dawn Service on the Guild in Western Australia left Australia for the ‘Trip of ANZAC Day followed by the Australian Service at Lone Pine and the I am a sub-branch member of a Lifetime’. Originating from four states, the twenty three opportunity to lay a wreath on behalf of the war widows’ in Australia. Caloundra RSL in Queensland, and members of the touring party met together for the first time The tour was an overwhelming success and the camaraderie between I have just had my novel. Bluey’s in Singapore before heading to Istanbul via Dubai. our members was amazing. The chaperones worked extremely hard and War published by Penguin Australia. it was gratifying to receive the many compliments from tour members Above everything else, Bluey’s War is After seventeen hours flying time (from Perth) we arrived in Istanbul about the way the tour was organised and how well they were looked a moving and engrossing love story, and spent the following three glorious days touring historical museums, after. set near Goondiwindi in South West palaces and mosques before heading to the Gallipoli Peninsular. Queensland. The War Widows’ Guild of Australia W.A. Inc. is pleased to announce Blessed with beautiful weather, a very informative Turkish guide and that tours of Gallipoli (April 2009) and the ‘Western Front’ (September It encompasses the lives of its two main an Australian war historian the party visited many war cemeteries and 2009) in conjunction with Boronia Travel, Victoria, have been tentatively characters from around 1935 to 1957. How significant battle sites, including a boat cruise on the Aegean Sea to view booked. We cordially invite expressions of interest from readers to join they meet and fall in love; Ellen’s nightmare the landing area of the troops. us for either/both tours in 2009. life in an abusive household; Bluey going off The tour of the peninsular was often emotional with many members For information on either of these chaperoned tours please contact to war so young; his capture and his misery locating family members in the war cemeteries. Others imagined their Jenny Knight (War Widows’ Guild W.A.) on (08) 9371 7470 or 0402 and degradation at the hands of the Japanese. Although the story is fictional, it nevertheless fathers or uncles landing on the beach at ANZAC Cove. This part 051 592. examines the realities of wartime uncertainty and sacrifice, mateship and survival. Bluey returns home mentally scared over the death of his best friend who was executed by the Japanese. The story also describes his descent into alcoholism and the breakdown of his relationship with Ellen, his subsequent fight back from oblivion and his return home in an attempt to win back the woman he loves. This is a story of unyielding love and profound courage. I think it is a book that will appeal to sub- branch member’s right around Australia. It is best summed up by some of the media reviews. The Sunshine Coast Sunday. Hazel Donald and Norma Harmsworth laying a wreath on behalf of war Bert Woodhouse, Jenny Knight and Harry Cable prior to the “This sincere and engaging book will widows at the Australian Service at Lone Pine, ANZAC Day 2008. Dawn Service at ANZAC Cove. appeal to a wide range of readers. It is simply a darn good, fair dinkum yarn.” The Walcha News. “A story simply told but nonetheless poignant and graphic.” Victoria Weekly. “The book may well revive accounts of similarly disposed couples who, post war, tried to adjust to what passed for normality.” Brisbane’s Sunday Mail. “Hamlet pulls the reader gently through a moving – and classically Australian – story.” Gold Coast Bulletin: “Hamlet creates a stirring saga of love, war and a family wrenched apart.” Townsville Bulletin: “It’s a sad book but goes a long war towards explaining the full tragedy of war and its effects.” Doubleday Books: “Beautifully told with a harrowing undercurrent of sadness.” For further information please contact Herb Hamlet at [email protected] or Shrapnel Valley Cemetery - One of the most beautiful on Gallipoli. It has an irregular oval layout indicating original wartime burials. Angela Sassone at Penguin Publishing. The cemetery contains the graves of some 700 soldiers, including 527 Australians. STILL WAITING AGES FOR MEDALS TO BE MOUNTED? NOT HERE! PRECISION MOUNTING, QUALITY REPRODUCTION MEDALS, MILITARY ART AND MORE ... Perth’s expert, medals, mounting and framing shops ... Precision, acid-free, NO superglue, sewn-on clasps, no-cardboard medal mounting and dress ribbon bars. Australian and British Commonwealth issue reproduction and replacement medal replicas and ribbons. Creative framing of all your family service memorabilia for future generations to appreciate. Plus full- sized fully-framed defence and police replica weapons; Owens, SLRs, M60s, M16s, M16/M203s, F88s, F89s, Browning 9mm, Glock, and Ruger .38 pistols, these framed weapons look great on your walls! Card-carrying ADF and ESO members receive special discounts on all medal mounting services and get priority level service. Personalised attention and lots of easy on-site parking... come on over! Heritage Medals dealers in Western Australia: Heritage Medals/Military Framers: Shop 9, 7 Delage Street Joondalup Phone 9300 3318 Medals Mounting & Framing: 298a Railway Parade Cannington; Phone 9358 5058 Email [email protected] or shop online! 24 x 7 x 365 @ http://www.heritagemedals.com.au We’re open 10:00am to 5:00pm weekdays, and Saturdays 10:00am to 2:00pm and other times by appointment The Listening Post August 2008 23

The Every night they came past our camp. A group of Aussies with their large We could see their camp on a small hill on the other side of the felt hats, clearly visible in the bright moonlight. Their work was apparently railway embankment. Once the Aussies arrived on the top of further away than ours because they always passed well after we had retired the hill they did a roll call to make sure no one had been left to our sleeping mats, after our wash in the river and our meagre meal of rice en route. Dark silhouettes against the moon-lit sky, commands Bugler with watery vegetable soup. sounded clear and crisp in the quiet Burman night. It was as if they were no exhausted POWs but a first draft of young conscripts. It was a prelude to a ritual they performed nearly every night. The Dutch POWs were full of astonishment and admiration for this level of discipline. They had respect for this close-knit and mentally undefeated group of men, who acted as if they still had to defend the honour of the British Empire. After the roll call nothing happened for half an hour. The moon had climbed higher into the sky and was bathing the landscape in a light as if a strange sun had started a new day. The two huts on the hill appeared to have swallowed up all life and stood out unrealistically clear against the sky above the dark green jungle. You felt as if you were on another planet. In the Dutch huts the men were patiently waiting for the rest of the ritual, which they already knew through and through but still wanted to witness again every time. Then the bugler would play the Last Post. In such a way that it sent shivers up your spine. As if he wanted to tell the Jap : Listen.....we are not broken.....because we know for certain that eventually victory will be ours In the camp you would hear a needle fall on the ground. Everybody felt the same moral support of the bugler’s unspoken message. Otto Kreeft

National Dental Update June 2008 AUSTRALIAN DENTALASSOCIATION INC. www.ada.org.au

AGED CARE DENTAL INITIATIVES

Australia has an ageing population. As the proportion of older Australians increases the oral health needs for the elderly will continue to increase in the 21st century. Greater focus on prevention and care must be addressed as a matter of priority.1 Given that many older Australians are retaining their natural teeth, dental health for older people is more complex today than ever before. Increasing evidence is emerging that supports the link between oral health and overall levels of general health. Research has demonstrated that cardiovascular disease, aspiration pneumonia, nutritional deficiencies and stroke are some of the possible complications that can result from poor oral health. Pain and social isolation are frequently linked to poor dental health. Ageing can You never know mean that people are less able to manage many customary daily living tasks that such as cleaning teeth that were once second nature. who it might help Studies have shown that many residents being admitted to residential care facilities have compromised oral health and high levels Bring new hope to those with cancer of oral disease. In many cases it is going unchecked. It will deteriorate if oral hygiene and mouth care planning is not undertaken by making a gift in your will. and implemented. According to a new report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Residential Aged Care in Australia 2006-2007: a statistical overview, at 30 June 2007, there were 170,071 operational residential aged care places, an Bequests to The Cancer Council WA increase of 3,780 compared with 30 June 2006.2 help fund life saving research that will ultimately help us In an effort to improve the level of oral health amongst people in residential aged care facilities, the South Australian Dental Service has initiated two innovative and significant projects, the Oral Health for Older People: Nursing Home Care Program and the Better defeat cancer. Oral Health in Residential Care Project. For confidential information about Oral Health for Older People: Nursing Home Care Program making a bequest to The Cancer Council WA The main points of this program are summarised below: please call Suzanne Cavanagh on • Funded by the SA Dental Service and developed as a collaborative partnership with the (08) 9212 4333 Australian Dental Association (SA Branch) and private dental practitioners, the programme “ ... dental health for older commenced as a two-year demonstration project in 2003. people is more complex • A small number of private dentists experienced in delivering dental treatment services to today than ever before.” older people living in Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) were recruited by the SA Dental Service. • For residents to be eligible for publicly-funded dental care they required either a Pensioner Concession Card or Health Card (however, those who were ineligible were still able to receive dental treatment services as private patients). 46 Ventnor Avenue, West Perth WA 6005 Tel (08) 9212 4333 • A fee for service payment structure, (the ‘Aged Care Dental Scheme’), was developed based on the Department of Veterans Fax (08) 9212 4334 Affairs Licensed Dental Officer schedule. Via the scheme, all initial assessments were fully covered but RACF residents were e-mail: [email protected] required to contribute towards the cost of their dental care by paying a small co-payment. An additional feature of the scheme www.cancerwa.asn.au was that any RACF resident could receive an initial assessment which was fully covered, regardless of concession status. Subsequent dental treatment could then be arranged via their private dentist or the visiting dentist. • The project aim was to improve the level of oral health amongst people in residential aged care facilities, thus improving their general health and quality of life. • Central to the clinical service delivery model was the provision of clinical services on site using appropriate portable dental equipment. • The uptake and acceptance of the project by RACF residents and staff and the participating private providers was evaluated after two years. The evaluation demonstrated continued commitment and involvement of the private providers and RACFs, and positive outcomes in terms of oral and overall general health and quality of life for project participants. As a result of these outcomes, the project developed into an ongoing programme which continues to be funded and supported by the SA Dental Service. • Currently, residents of 48 RACFs are receiving dental treatment services from eight participating private dentists and one dental hygienist on a sessional basis. The frequency of treatment sessions at 25% of these facilities is from 1–4 times per month. The session frequency at the remaining RACFs is on average once every 2– 3 months. Since the commencement of the programme in 2004, 2,000 individual RACF residents have received 3,600 dental courses of care incorporating 11,000 service items.

Contacts: Dr John E Matthews, President Mr Robert Boyd-Boland, Chief Executive Officer All correspondence to: Australian Dental Association Inc, PO Box 520 St Leonards NSW 1590 Tel: 02 9906 4412 Fax: 02 9906 4736 Email: [email protected] 24 The Listening Post August 2008 10LH’s Old Boys Not Forgotten SEVERAL generations of soldiers from Long after the last of the old boys passed A Sqn, 10 Light Horse, gathered in away, the soldiers of A Sqn continue to Kings Park before Anzac Day for the honour the courage of the light horsemen. annual Old Boys Parade. OC A Sqn Maj Kim O’Grady said the parade Troopers from 10 Light Horse formed a recognised those who made the ultimate catafalque party around the Light Horse sacrifice, as well as those who gave their time memorial in Kings Park while wreaths were and energy to carry on the traditions of the laid in honour of the fallen. unit. The parade was originally held by 10 Light During World War I, the regiment took part Horse Regt veterans to remember those who in the ill-fated Battle of the Nek and the fell during the Great War. renowned charge at Beersheba. Crossword By Tpr Matt Whitby

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The Australian Services Rugby Championships celebrates its thirtieth Anniversary in Canberra next year at a time to be decided by The Command. The ASRC is held over a week at Viking Rugby Park, on Amsinck Street, Waniassa. Generally, Navy vers RAAF on the Sunday. RAAF vers ARMY on the Wednesday. NAVY vers ARMY on the The Untold Story of Saturday. The week closes with a reception for all service participants at Vikings Rugby Club on the Saturday night. That reception is World War 1 followed by a NAVY get together in The Zoo, which this year the “Old & Bolds” were invited to. Most Australians know where France, Belgium and the UK. The All the WWI veterans have gone. subject is already well researched and Several “Navy Salts” are Gallipoli is- but how many could film also covers the indigenous soldiers “Soon there won’t be anybody left recorded.” seeking expressions of - and the part played by nurses in Australia whose father fought in point on a map to Montbrehain, His successor Allan Griffin on interest from ex Navy Romsey film maker, Alan Young, WWI, and in 10 years most of the Rugby aficionados interest Le Hamel, Passchendaele, national TV news from France “It Fromelles or Pozieres? whose father was twice decorated survivors of WWII will have passed in attending a Navy Rugby for bravery in WWI, is himself a away, too.” is a pity we know so little about this reunion in Canberra in Well, six times the number of WW2 and Korean War veteran who battle in Australia.” conjunction with the ASRC. ANZACs, 72,000 in all, died in these Successive governments have given has previously won awards from the loud lip service to Australian history It is envisaged that a “meet places rather than the 8,700 who gave Julia Gillard on ABC ANZAC Day American Motion Picture Society for but public comments received by the & greet” will be held at their lives at Gallipoli. The ANZACs program, “I hope we capture and best documentary and best editing. producer indicate that talk is cheap. Viking Rugby Club at 1800 losses and great victories on the record that history before it’s going to be Here’s two comments from the focus on the Thursday night, Western Front have been completely His wife, family and friends have group: lost to us.” hopefully in The Zoo. overshadowed by the disastrous combined to fund the more than a quarter of a million dollars needed to In his other life, film maker Alan Young It will cost you $ (TBA). Gallipoli campaign. What do Australians think of LEST The Command assures me finish the project which two federal, WE FORGET? is a wine author having published 20 The ANZAC successes of 1918 that two state governments and Australia’s we will have more than “It sickens me to see our politicians, books worldwide. In 2008 he will “ended the war to end all wars” took top 100 companies who turned their adequate notice (subject to place in Belgium and northern France. backs on the project. and others, display their “respect” each release two films in Australia and wine operational commitments) 2008 is the 90th celebration of these ANZAC Day, solemnly mouthing Lest books in both the USA and China! to organise. The original plan was for three half We Forget” - to promptly put it all stunning victories. Names to me please? hour segments, but the vastness of behind them for the next 364 days.” website:http://www. This is all about to change when the the subject became a nine-part mini- (These are not my words.) forgingtheanzacs.com/index.html Eric McKenzie NSW Sec. most important piece of Australian and series, which begins with the reasons 16 Ewing Drive RAN CD Association. NZ history is released this month in “Lest We Forget. I’m afraid in many for war and concludes with the return Romsey, Victoria 3434 PO Box 5116 Dora Creek the form of a three hour documentary. home of the ANZAC troops - and life cases this is merely a hollow platitude, trotted out on appropriate occasions.” Tel: 03 5429 5025 NSW 2264 The film contains over two hours of after war. They fought in the Great 02 49156722 [email protected] WWI black and white film and photos War and came home to the Great Or try this? Previous DVA minister 0428 899 376 obtained from museums in Germany, Depression! Bruce Bilson: “I am aware that this [email protected] 26 The Listening Post August 2008 The Gallipoli Research Foundation The Gallipoli Research Found- now and the 30th of September. New Members ation’s True Blue Appeal was The Foundation can help with The State President and members of the State Executive extend a welcome to officially launched in the promotional materials including posters new members, re-enlistments and transferees to the League in WA. Greenslopes Private Hospital Foyer and brochures, receipt books (if required), with a celebration of bush poets, and media releases etc. Adamski, Stanley- York Linnington, Peter- City of Rockingham “billy tea, damper and cocky’s joy Anderson, David- Karratha and Districts Ludlow, Robert- City of Rockingham (golden syrup) on Friday 30 May. It Please contact the Foundation on 3394 Atkinson, David- Karratha and Districts Macander, Peter- Ocean Reef was great fun and much appreciated 7284 if you would like to be involved Baddams, Douglas- Rockingham MacPherson, Garth- Manjimup by patients, staff and visitors. The or if you require additional information. Barnard, Wayne- Karratha and Districts Matheson, Peter- Riverton Even if you think your event will be Battistini, David- City of Perth Matheson, Rodney- Riverton Foundation, established in 2005 as Bourke, Craig- Karratha and Districts Maughan, Richard- Port Kennedy a tribute to the Veteran and War small (just a few friends), the Foundation Breeden, Sydney- Scarborough McCarthy, Guy- Bunbury Widow community, raises funds would love to hear from you. Every Brierley, David- Karratha and Districts McCreery, Hugh- Pinjarra for medical research carried out True Blue activity will make a difference Brond, Jeffrey- Bullsbrook McMahon, Johnathan- Armadale on the Hospital campus. For more and you’ll be a part of that great Aussie Browne, Gary- City of Mandurah McQueen, Campbell- City of Rockingham tradition – helping your mates. Burnby, Rodney- Karratha and Districts Moffatt, Kevin- Gosnells information, please go to www. Butherway, Philip- Beverley Molnar, Michael- Riverton gallipoliresearch.com.au. Regards Coleman, Stephen- Karratha and Districts Nash, Gawen- Esperance Collins, Benjamin- Karratha and Districts Nathan, Lewis- Riverton The True Blue Appeal will run until Robynne Milne Cramer, David- Karratha and Districts Nicholls, David- Port Kennedy Tuesday 30 September. The Foundation Executive Officer Crossan, David- City of Rockingham Norris, Thomas- Bunbury is very keen to encourage community Gallipoli Research Foundation Daniel, Peter- Quinns Rocks Paton, Shane- Port Kennedy support for the appeal which is only in Greenslopes Private Hospital Dodd, David- City of Mandurah Pedersen, Glenn- Bunbury its third year. Newdegate Street Edwards, David- Quinns Rocks Pinkerton, Mark- City of Rockingham GREENSLOPES Q 4120 Evans, Raymond- Katanning Potts, Robert- Nollamara Individuals or groups (clubs etc) are Gallop, Kathleen- Kwinana Pringle, Ross- Karratha and Districts invited to conduct a True Blue activity at Ph: 3394 6776 Fax: 3394 7767 Mob: Gee, David- Port Kennedy Quach, Toan- Vietnamese Services a time and date that suits them between 0408 692 412 Gilchrist, Bryce- Yanchep-Two Rocks Rhodes, Graeme- Port Kennedy Goodacre, Alan- City of Rockingham Riley, William- Bullsbrook continued as my Executive Officer. Greep, George- City of Mandurah Rowe, Trevor- Peaceful Bay Death of Tom Ward Guerini, David- Karratha and Districts Rundle, Dean- Port Kennedy After Tom left the Service he was Hammond, Rodney- Nollamara Ryan, Lee- Bunbury Ladies and Gentlemen, It involved in Search and Rescue ops in Harris, Edward- Armadale Sappelli, Cornelis- Ocean Reef is my sad duty to pass on the South East Queensland as a helicopter Harrison, Robert- Kwinana Scully, Darren- Pinjarra following from John Chesterfield: pilot. Tom was a great pilot, a wonderful Hart, Kevin- Nollamara Simpson, Steven- Esperance For those who knew Sqn Ldr Tom friend and a regular golf partner – a Higgs, Shane- Port Kennedy Skelton, Gerald- City of Perth Ward, I regret to advise that Tom game he loved with a passion. Horrocks, Raymond- Bicton-Palmyra Slater, Debra- Albany died last night at Coolangatta Howard, Gary- Karratha and Districts Souter, Dennis- Bellevue Please pass on this advice. Funeral/ Humphreys, Terry- Port Kennedy Stallard, Cary- City of Rockingham after long and gallant battle with family details will be advised when Huynh, Dao- Vietnamese Services Stanley, Dean- Karratha and Districts cancer. known. Jackson, Lloyd- Karratha and Districts Stevens, Stuart- Geraldton City Tom flew with 9 Sqn in Vietnam Vale Tommy. Jager, Philip- Karratha and Districts Thomas, Ian- Dawesville and commanded the Squadron on its Best regards Jobson, Audrey- Returned Ex-Servicewomen Thomas, Sarah- Karratha and Districts return to Amberley for six months in John Chesterfield AM MID Joshi, Ravi- Nollamara Thompson, Shane- Karratha and Districts Air Cdre RAAF (Ret) Kallarn, Jack- Karratha and Districts Tomlinson, Colin- City of Rockingham 1973 until I assumed command. Tom Keaton, Tony- Bunbury Tran, Tuan- Vietnamese Services Keightley, David- Nollamara Valeriani, Steven- Bicton-Palmyra Keyser, Jarron- Bunbury Vicary, James- Bunbury CROSSWORD solution Krikstolaitis, Steven- Karratha and Districts Vickers, Eric- Bullsbrook La Roche, Stanley- East Victoria Park Vincenzoni, Mars- Karratha and Districts Lammers, Charles- City of Rockingham Vuckovic, Nikola- Nollamara E L A N A A R G H K A L E Lapsley, Robert- Ocean Reef Weir, Robyn- Toodyay Laretive, Clancy- Scarborough Westray, Mastern- Port Kennedy H O P I S H I N A O L E O Lea, Jason- Bunbury Wilday, Roy- Yanchep-Two Rocks Lee, Jack- Karratha and Districts Williams, Lance- Esperance F O R E S H A D O W L I E S Leigh, Norman- Armadale Wylie, Kenneth- Armadale C O Y M A I N E N O B E L S T O I C N B A F B I F A N N I E O I L L I T I G A N T M A R D I LAST POST R U S K T S A R They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them W A C K Y C R O N K I T E nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, A S H A T O N E D N O R We will remember them. Lest We Forget. The deaths of the following RSL Members (WA Branch) were recorded at ANZAC House. S K I N O R S E C A N O E M I A M I B I N Navy McIntosh, Ronald; WX41051- Manning O P E C C O L L E A G U E S Binks, Gordon; P6 00037- City of Mandurah Murdoch, Robert; WX39537- City of Mandurah F A R O A L T O S S N A P Johnston, Brian; PA3455- Cambridge Noble, Henry; WX25527- Scarborough Prindiville, Raymond; C608000- City of Perth O’Reilly, Laurence; WX29312- Bicton-Palmyra F L A N T E M P T T O R Y Steele, Craig; R93454- Lancelin/Coastal Piper, Donald; WX7571- City of Perth White, Alexandr; 30701- Bunbury Purcell, Noel; 214032- Yanchep-Two Rocks Williams, Geoffrey; 27732- City of Mandurah Roberts, Roy; W40423- Bidgetown Rossi, Lindsay; WX33837- Claremont Army Schurmann, C; WX7498- Bicton-Palmyra DVA Registered Scott, William; WX41551- City of Perth Allan, Ronald; WX14286- Busselton Shevlin, Daniel; 3/4456- City of Mandurah Barnes, N.M; WX28139- Wagin Shier, Charles; 54192- Port Kennedy Bayliss, Robert; 215183- Quinns Rocks Smith, William; WX4553- Central podiatrist Beaumont, Ronald; 2791017- Port Kennedy Van Telle, Ernest; WX463- Mt Lawley-Inglewood Bowra, Eugene; WX42457- Eastern Regional Whiteaker, L.R; 5410368- Bunbury Colevas, John; WX10609- City of Mandurah • All foot problems Wilkerson, Phillip; WX34563- Bicton-Palmyra Cometti, Arthur; WX35873- City of Perth Woods, Joseph; WX12603- Port Kennedy addressed including nails, Crispe, Clement; WX41187- City of South Perth Davies, Noel; WX27781- Applecross corns and callouses Airforce Doney, Malcolm; SX39267- City of Mandurah Ginbey, Claude; WX11820- Cambridge Arnold, Cedric; 15819- Highgate • Orthotic shoe supports Green, B.G; WX11081- City of Cockburn Campbell, David; 434864- City of Mandurah Hansford-Mill, Frank; 7669328- Riverton Hamilton, Donald; 45902- Bedford-Morley • Medical grade footwear Harrison, Reginald; WX22789- City of Mandurah Kerrigan, George; A15804- Riverton assessment and prescription Haywood, Colin; 5/1277- City of Perth Mackenzie-Snowball, Wilfred; 280055V- Shenton Park Hunt, Patricia; WF15715- Bunbury Perser, Donald; 1654327- Bicton-Palmyra • All DVA Gold Card and Ingvarson, Julius; W37069- Geraldton City Rogerson, John; 436094- Cambridge TPI Card holders welcome. Kennedy, George; WX29682- Pemberton Sheridan, Desmond, 415689- City of Rockingham King, J.F; WX11306- City of Mandurah Shewring, Josiah. 436669- Applecross Mabbs, Raymond; 5/410386- City of Mandurah Spencer, T.C; 436869- Bunbury Ph: 9344 8399 The Listening Post August 2008 27 Australian Women's War Service finally recognised 91 years after the first military bravery “Since the first nurses and teachers left Australia “Illustrated with some 300 images, the book their lives to rescue patients trapped in burning awards were awarded to Australian to serve in the Boer War, we have seen women is a fascinating account of the determination buildings after a German air raid on the Western women, the story of Australian women’s as divers and war artists, doctors and signallers, of women to serve and their remarkable Front on 22 July 1917,” he said. wing commanders and soldiers. achievements.” service from the Boer War to now has 157 women have died serving in Australia’s been immortalised in a publication “During more than a century of service we More than 100 people attended today’s launch, defence forces, with the first in the Boer war. launched today by the Minister for have seen the gender barriers dismantled, with including women who served on the home front Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin. women serving in key operational positions and and many former and current servicewomen Women now make up 13 per cent of the today being among the leaders in the Australian who feature in the book. Australian Defence Force. Mr Griffin said Australian Women and War Defence Force,” he said. Australian Women and War was written by explores the rich, but often untold, story of Mr Griffin said first bravery awards to Australian The book also chronicles the vital contribution women were awarded for actions 91 years ago Associate Professor Melanie Oppenheimer, and women in the services and on the home front in is published by the Department of Veterans’ wars, conflicts and peace operations. of women on the home front, as fund raisers, today. in voluntary organisations, in taking on Affairs. Copies can be ordered from the “Women have always played a strong part in traditionally male occupations and in supporting “Sisters Clare Deacon, Dorothy Cawood and Australian War Memorial in Canberra and the our wartime history yet too little is known of the families of those in theatres of war and the Alice Ross-King and Staff Nurse Mary Derrer Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne. each received the Military Medal for risking their contribution,” Mr Griffin said. men who didn’t return. Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109. Will Longstaff’s Menin Gate at midnight (Ghosts of Menin Gate) Will Longstaff’s Menin Gate at midnight (Ghosts The fame accorded Menin Gate did not spread to Longstaff’s of Menin Gate), painted in 1927, is undoubtedly other spiritualist works, partly because they were not publicly one of the best known paintings in the Australian displayed. Ghosts of Vimy Ridge remained in seclusion for many years in a parliamentary committee room and was only recently War Memorial’s art collection. In the years placed on public display in the Canadian War Museum. following the first world war, this painting’s Carillon, given to the National Gallery of New Zealand, was tribute to sacrifice, combined with its spiritualist kept in storage for over thirty years until recently exhibited at overtones, struck exactly the right chord with the Queen Elizabeth II Army Memorial Museum at Waiouru. many Australians who had lost family and friends For a variety of reasons, including political expediency, financial in the war. The painting has been hung in the depression and a waning public interest in war, the Canadian Memorial in a darkened room, under spotlights, government did not fund the display or restoration of its in an environment that somewhat resembles remarkable collection of war art, which had been assembled a church, and that inspires a meditative and principally through the inspiration and sponsorship of the 14 spiritual response. Will Longstaff Menin Gate at Midnight (Ghosts of Menin gate) 1927 newspaper barons Lord Beaverbrook and Lord Rothermere. The New Zealand government demonstrated little interest in Will Longstaff painted Menin Gate at midnight after he had oil on canvas 140.5 x 271.8 cm supporting war art during or after the war. attended the unveiling ceremony of the Menin Gate memorial AWM ART09807 at the entrance of the Belgian town of Ypres on 24 July 1927. Even had the Canadian and New Zealand works been on This memorial was dedicated to the 350,000 men of the British a metaphor, to suggest that paradise can be experienced on earth: it is display, they might not have evoked a strong public response. and empire forces who had died in the battles around Ypres. Longstaff an affirmation of the joys of life after the horrors of war. Nonetheless, Menin Gate incorporates stronger composition and more powerful is reported to have been so profoundly moved by the ceremony that Spencer’s painting was a product of a period of intense interest in imagery than do Longstaff’s later paintings. His evocative means of during a midnight walk along the Menin road he saw a vision of steel- spiritualism, the same environment that fostered Longstaff’s painting. depicting the war dead gradually became little more than a formula. helmeted spirits rising from the moonlit cornfields around him. It is As Longstaff lived and worked in Britain at this time, and maintained a The particular recognition and remembrance of Australian war dead said that, following his return to London, he painted the work in one studio in London, he may well have seen Spencer’s painting and known 6 and the service of Australian soldiers that fostered the creation of the session, while still under psychic influence. Another account suggests of the acclaim it received. Australian War Memorial meant that Menin Gate was available for that Longstaff was influenced by Mrs Mary Horsburgh, who had In 1930, Bohdan Nowak, a Polish engineer and architect, produced a viewing. Moreover, the ANZAC tradition, the belief that the first worked in a British canteen during the war, and who told him when he series of twelve lithographs, Vox Mortuum (The voice of the dead). Vox world war was a watershed in Australian history, the baptism of a met her during his evening walk that she could feel ‘her dead boys’ all nation and the creation of a national hero, and that those who died 1 Mortuum 4 (The unknown soldier) is particularly reminiscent of Menin around her. Gate: it shows the ghostly figure of a soldier on a cross floating before an on foreign soil did so to create a greater Australia, gave this painting an The scene is painted almost entirely in hues of blue, which helps to arc de triomphe, in front of which marches a host of soldiers on military added, almost religious, significance. Within this context, the painting’s suggest a midnight scene. It is constructed on a simple, traditional, parade. Longstaff was thus not alone in depicting this subject.7 dramatic display at the Memorial and the publicity it received during its Australian tour, as well as the wide distribution of colour reproductions land-sky format: the pale memorial is placed boldly on the horizon, Longstaff’s painting was purchased by Lord Woolavington in 1928 and before it marches a host of ghostly soldiers, portrayed by an in aid of charitable causes, contributed to its reputation. The spiritualist for 2,000 guineas and was immediately presented to the Australian interest gave these works an immediate appeal, but it was the particular impressionistic outline of bodies and helmets. In the immediate government.8 The price was considerable: Streeton’s celebrated Golden foreground, the cornfield is strewn with blood-red poppies. In the emotional climate in Australia that made Menin Gate a favourite with Summer, Eaglemont of 1889 had been sold just four years earlier for half the public. far distance, a small, silhouetted building with windows ablaze adds a the price of the Longstaff painting9; and Stanley Spencer’s Resurrection, dramatic contrast to the still monument of Menin Gate. Cookham was purchased by the British government for the national The appeal of Dyson’s A voice From ANZAC and Xmas memories was Longstaff used well-known motifs to trigger emotion. His scarlet collection in 1927 for £1,000. much more short-lived than that of Menin Gate. Further reproductions of Menin Gate were produced once the initial one thousand were poppies are flowers that could be found in the Flanders fields, but they After Menin Gate was displayed in London, by royal command viewed also carry the traditional connotations of shed blood, and remembrance; sold, and have continued to be demanded up to this day; the Dyson by King George V and his family at Buckingham Palace, and shown reproduction was limited to one thousand copies. Dyson’s work has a they represent a floral blanket covering the bloodied bodies of unknown in Manchester and Glasgow, it was sent to Australia. It was placed on soldiers, and at the same time, like the paper poppies worn on period flavour: he created specific characters rather than an anonymous 2 display during 1928-29 in capital and regional cities around Australia, mass of ghostly figures. Dyson’s figures are too clearly perceived to be Remembrance Day, they are a tribute from the living to the dead. The where it was seen by record crowds.10 One thousand reproductions of portrayal of the steel-helmeted soldiers rising from the cornfields extends successful as spirits: they are ghosts because the text tells us so, but the painting were made in 1928 under Longstaff’s direction, and signed they could be taken for living beings. By contrast, Longstaff’s painting the range of visual emblems used by Longstaff: the plentiful harvest, by the artist. He retained two hundred of these to cover his costs and the harvest of men; the steel- helmeted crosses covering the graves of is like a dream; the impressionistic shadows of soldiers that hover in presented four hundred to the RSSILA for sale through the Australian the cornfields are like a mirage. Because the figures are not clearly many soldiers; and, as well, the helmeted bayonets raised in cheer and War Memorial. He gave the remaining four hundred to the Earl Haig victory.3 These symbols add resonance to the images, but they remain delineated, because it appears that they may be a quirk of perception, Fund, all to be sold at 10 guineas each. The four hundred allotted to they really seem ghostly. isolated references, and to some extent compete with each other. Some Australia were sold by October 1929, at which time the Memorial people may see and respond to one motif, others to another. This, in its produced a cheaper version which was distributed widely, door to door, Menin Gate at midnight has undeniable power: it brings to life the many way, contributes to the wide appeal of the painting: it is many things through a marketing company. The salesmen were provided with a text nameless heroes, the men on whom the ANZAC legend was based, to many people. learn by heart which reminded those who had friends and family that and who exist as part of our national memory. It has understandably One drawing in Will Longstaff’s wartime sketch-book depicted a ‘He is not missing. He is here’.11 remained popular with a large portion of the Australian public for sixty years, and has become a national icon. mutilated human leg lying in a poppy field; a poignant conjunction of Following the success of Menin Gate, Longstaff painted several other a brutal fact of war with one of the delights of nature. In another sketch works on a similar theme. Immortal shrine (Eternal silence) [1928] ANNE GRAY Senior curator of art – Australian War he drew French children placing flowers beside a helmeted cross, the depicts ghostly soldiers marching past the cenotaph in London on Memorial Canberra grave of an unknown British soldier at Villers-Bretonneux. Such works Remembrance Day 1928. This work was presented to the Memorial in suggest that Longstaff’s interest in the juxtaposition of war dead with 1943 by Mrs Trevor Hedberg and the Misses Winifred and Hope Kellow, floral tributes long preceded Menin Gate. MEDALS…MEDAL MOUNTING…MEDALS daughters of the late Mr Charles Brown Kellow, who was a schoolboy In the 1920s, when Longstaff painted Menin Gate, spiritualism was contemporary of Longstaff’s in Ballarat. Immortal shrine is closely based The Regiment - Wally Dennison in vogue, and many who wished to communicate with relatives and on a watercolour by Longstaff held in the Imperial War Museum that friends who had died in battle found consolation in its tenets. One depicts the cenotaph on a rainy day: the bold structure of the cenotaph, of Longstaff’s subsequent patrons, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, visited the reflections in the street, and the glimmering lights are similar, but Australia in 1920 to promote the spiritualist message, and he received the watercolour is peopled by the silhouetted figures of ordinary men Medal Mounting many letters of thanks from mothers who had lost their sons in the war and women, rather than by ghostly soldiers, and in Immortal shrine and to whom he had given courage.4 the cenotaph itself has a ghostly presence, gauntly white in front of the Service sombre blue-black buildings that dissolve into the horizon. Longstaff was by no means the first artist to portray spiritualist ideas. . On ANZAC Day 1927, the Melbourne Herald published a cartoon by Another work on this theme, Ghosts of Vimy Ridge [ 1931 ], portrays All mounting traditionally hand Will Dyson, A voice from ANZAC: ‘Funny thing, Bill - I keep thinking I the spirits of servicemen of the Canadian Corps. It clearly resembles stitched (no glue used at all) hear men marching!’, which depicted the spirits of two Australian soldiers Menin Gate in its composition: the memorial on Vimy Ridge stands . Full size, miniature medals, ribbon bars seated on the shore at Gallipoli, a graphic visualization of survival dramatically on the summit beneath which the shimmering spirits . All replica full size & miniature medals after bodily death. This cartoon had a powerful emotional impact at of Canadian soldiers gather in the silvery moonlight. A fourth work, supplied Carillon the time and, as a result, the Herald printed a thousand reproductions [1932], is said to show the ghosts of New Zealand soldiers on . All medal mounting items supplied the beaches of Belgium listening to carillon bells in their own country. which they presented to the Victorian branch of the Returned Sailors’ . and Soldiers’ Imperial League of Australia (RSSILA) to distribute to its Ghosts of Vimy Ridge was presented to the Canadian government by John Ribbons, mounting bars, clasps of members.5 In 1929, Dyson produced another variation on this theme, Dewer in 1931. Carillon was presented to the New Zealand government various types Xmas memories, which portrayed a swagman and his dog accompanied by Lord Wakefield in 1934-35. by two ghostly diggers. Longstaff is also said to have painted two other works depicting Medal Mounting since 1987 In February 1927, however, before either Dyson or Longstaff created phantom soldiers near the coast: The rearguard (The spirit of ANZAC) Ex-regular Army, Member RSL their images of existence after death, Stanley Spencer caused a sensation [1929], a ghostly array of soldiers lining up near the beach at Gallipoli in London with Resurrection, Cookham 1924-26. (He was also at this in the bleak dawn, with departing transports and warships barely visible time working on Resurrection of soldiers, based on his experiences at on the misty horizon12; and Drake’s drum, reputedly painted in response Phone: (08) 9444 9553 the front.) Spencer’s version of life after death shows newly resurrected to the evacuation of British troops from Dunkirk, and which is said to Yokine, Perth villagers arising from their tombs in a Cookham churchyard. It differs show the Sussex coast haunted by the spirits of servicemen rising to from Longstaff’s and Dyson’s works in that the scene was intended as answer ‘Drake’s drum’.13 28 The Listening Post August 2008

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