No 90 August 2020 Lynn Was Afavourite Had Lynn Was They of My (I Parents Think Remember, Vera Late of Dame the Ispeak Lynn

BRISBANE WATER (NSW) LEGACY No 90 August 2020 Lynn was afavourite had Lynn was they of my (I parents think remember, Vera late of Dame the Ispeak Lynn. Vera tribute to great another lady who you I know will all agreat lady.What aChinese germ moregoing to kill to me”. take than seven children raised husbands, &beaten cancer, it is she replied (I quote) “Dear, I’m Ihave 96, outlived two spoke to. question response In to “How are the you” remember Iparticularly alady I being. was One call to your your to as well you hear comments and to talk being involved around” “ring where in the we were able torchies. activities of our widows’ clubs and on the course reports missing the we all are of and quarantine of Chatterbox, what the with Spring! there are 67message sleeps till winter, this Itype in as fact Here well we are again into From The Editor Terrigal the and Club. Surf not been limited to, Blayney Rotary, the RSL subbranch to Terrigal. included, outside has His service but Legacy prior district Region, Orange in the Coast to moving and Central in organisations the community of voluntary worked Legatee, Mike has anumber with hard serving from beingaware, along apart community. the families and for to Veterans, service his their Orderthe (OAM) of Australia of award Medal of the with the Honours Birthday Queens List Mike Hickey, recognised in the Director, current and President our fellow Club Member, past agreat toIt see thrill was LEGATEE HICKEY MICHAEL Covers showsCovers ANZAC Day Commemorations on the Central Coast. Quiet, safe and reverent. warrant that the information available in this magazine is accurate, complete or current. Opinions expressed are those of the respective authors and not necessarily those of Brisbane Water (NSW) Legacy. (NSW) Water Brisbane of those necessarily not and authors respective the of those are expressed not Opinions does current. Legacy or (NSW) complete Water accurate, Brisbane is reserved. magazine this in rights All available Legacy. (NSW) Water information the Brisbane that from warrant consent written prior without prohibited is part in or whole in Reproduction Legacy. (NSW) Water © Brisbane NEXT ISSUE – 91 ISSUE NEXT Speaking of great ladies, you issuethis willSpeaking a find in for particularly was highlights Legatees One of the However, you will as see we have not beenidle. totally I hope you enjoy all issue this For who those are not 9 November, 2020 November, 9 opy deadline is deadline Copy Mark Gattenhof Mark Members Editor Editorial Committee –MaxDavis,0410 541 999 – Russell Swinden, Swinden, –Russell their grief. their to goes Fred’s deepestOur sympathy we family; share in second to none. was Legacy dedication to things all gentleman nature, great spirit sense of humour. and His debt.his Clubhelped it this success make istoday; the we are in our Club for some 15 efforts His personal untiring years. Treasurer he was cause, of contributions tomany our Club.Legacy his Amongst WaterBrisbane (NSW) 18with with years of those for Legacy years, 30 served July 2020. away on passed 4 Luxford, great friend, Legatee Fred our beloved Legatee and We that to are sad announce LEGATEE FRED LUXFORD in the near future. near in the will and help.can wecall, are holding, that we a function office give the news of what we will doing. be have been doing but months over last some exciting the Groom. Sharon envy). with green evening. Iimmediately bought aticket (my father was Vera that advised performingon that Iwas Lynn was was special if anything barman the asking On ties. well-dressed older men Force mostly Air in blazers and couldand not help noticing alarge group (100 plus) of checking in Iwent Casino. at After staying the bar to the avoiceand generation of amarvellous recordevery she recorded). person marvellous Atruly Max Davis, 0410 Davis, 541 999 Max V 0417 George, John 577 684 P Legacy Executive ice P resident Lest we ForgetLest May you Fred. rest in peace, We agreat have Legatee. and lost awonderful man Those who Fred will knew freely acknowledge his will know, many Fred, as Keep well, Ilook and to keep forward seeing warm you Remember if mobility you iscausing any to miss Inside you of willwhat we find not only a summary put tribute togetherThis was Welfare by Officer early 80’s the In on visiting business, Hobart Iwas resident Email [email protected] Email (02) 4458 4323 Fax (02) 4977 Phone 4323 Point Frederick 51-57 Legacy Village – Editor – Davis Max Legatee MasonsParade,

37002 :0717 President’s representation through Legacy Australia to make sure this does not become an impediment to the application Message process. If you hear rumours about this there is no need to be concerned but if you are please call the office. As we all know, the last few I take this opportunity to apologise to those ladies months have not been as ‘lively’ who may have turned 100 or 100+ over the last few as they should have been due to months. Traditionally the President delivers flowers the various restrictions imposed to these very proud Australians, however the ‘rules’ on us by Government on the around Coronavirus prevented me from performing advice of Health authorities. We this most pleasurable task. Having said that, our CEO, missed our Mothers’ Day High Peter Lawley, did make arrangements for flowers to be Tea which was a great disappointment not only to our couriered. Not the same I know but please be assured Beneficiaries but to our Legatees and staff who really we were thinking of you; and please also accept my enjoy seeing our ladies have an enjoyable day out. Never personal congratulations along with those of your Board mind, we will create other opportunities when time and and all of us at Brisbane Water Legacy for reaching your circumstances permit. This will start with the Spring respective milestones. “Floral” function our CEO, Peter Lawley, is planning for Being such a quiet period as far as activities go, we in mid September. initially didn’t think we would have enough news for Despite the restrictions imposed on us, Peter and his this issue of Chatterbox, however, our Vice President, staff used their energies and initiative to try and keep Legatee Max Davis, wouldn’t have a bar of putting it on our contact with all our Beneficiaries through the period hold. So thank you Max for your tenacity and hard work. since the last issue of Chatterbox. In particular: Finally, on behalf of your Board I wish you well and trust With the support of Legatees, we managed to you have battled the lockdown with a smile; it will all be contact almost all our Beneficiaries by phone at least over soon. Onwards and upwards! once. This was to ensure our Beneficiaries knew we Legatee John George – President were thinking of them and to lend our support where needed. This proved very successful and we think was not only beneficial to our Beneficiaries but to our staff and Legatees. For example, we now believe we have CEO Report a much more up to date record of our Beneficiaries circumstances which will help us in our delivery of As we start the new financial support services. year, plans are in place to get We were able to put together and deliver to some of back up and running following our more needy Beneficiaries, small food hampers to the March 2020 to July 2020 help them over the lockdown. We know they were well COVID-19 lockdown period. received. The Board of Directors have Our welfare staff continued to make visits to approved both the annual Beneficiaries most in need of their assistance. operating budget and the With all these initiatives we would have liked Business Plan, both assuming a to do more but, as you know, there were fairly ‘business as usual’ approach. strict limitations set down and we as a responsible Our Welfare team will be out and about visiting our organisation had to comply with those. beneficiaries and are there to help arrange additional Please be assured that your Board, the CEO, Legatees support some may require or provide guidance in what and our magnificent staff are very positive about the is available. future. The Coronavirus has been a bump in the road Our functions will hopefully return, with a Spring but we will get over it and be back to normal as soon as event in September to replace our cancelled Mothers’ ‘the rules’ permit. Day and Christmas in July events, and we are planning One major item on our agenda is the Village for some very special Christmas lunches to be held in redevelopment; this is on target. Over the past few weeks our Legacy hall at the Village. our project development partners have been taking soil During the ‘lock down’ period, our Village samples and preparing the technical information so we redevelopment planning progressed, and by the time of can submit our development application to the relevant distribution of this edition of Chatterbox expect to have authorities for approval. This exercise will take until almost final plans of what the buildings will look like. mid-next year to complete. Engineering work has been completed during the period In recent weeks there have been some new ‘privacy’ and we are ahead in the planning process. Keep a look rules handed down that could impact on the process out in the next edition for the plans and look and feel of for Gold Card applications. We are not entirely happy how the new village will be. about this situation and we have made appropriate Peter Lawley – Chief Executive Officer

CHATTERBOX 90 1 Welfare Team Report From our conversations with you all, we also noticed it’s not always the physical that concerns us during What a different world we’ve lived in since March? isolation. At a time like this, don’t the ‘littler things’, the So many familiar things, possibly ‘taken for granted’ ‘maintenance issues’, the ‘save for a rainy day’ matters, things, now RESTRICTED. Imposed upon us as a seem to become more and more apparent? Please know that we have a well-established list of subcontractors for consequence of the Coronavirus. Our own 4 walls anything from tradesmen, to home hairdressers and dog becoming familiar old friends. Imagine if they could talk washers. These are not only reliable, but trustworthy to us about the memories they’ve witnessed, lives past and reasonable people who can be contacted with lived within them, what wonderful conversations could confidence. Please let us know should ‘something’ arise have been had to help pass this time? and we’ll be more than happy to Since early March, our Club has on-refer for your consideration in held your Welfare, your peace of mind assistance. and safety in highest concern. What We have also noticed that many matters most to us, day after day, of you may have altered addresses, year after year, is you. During this phone contact numbers and had time and despite our restrictions to ‘next of kin’ changes. Please, this is ‘office – based’ communications, this so very important. Let us know when commitment remained though, in your circumstances alter. This is a most cases, through the phone line. life-blood connection to YOU through You have been regularly contacted by our database. both Legatees and Staff, to hopefully Helping us along, and no matter ensure vulnerabilities and needs what challenges we may face, please could continue to be addressed as best be assured, we face them together. as possible. For us, for many, great Without doubt, we’d all share the comfort has been taken in knowing hope of better days laying in wait. that little has seemingly broken Most special days that will again human spirits or personally desired find themselves centre stage in confidences. The bonds of family, our hearts. Days of greatest joy, of supports of close friends and carers family, of friendship, connection has offset many challenges. Amidst so and contentment drawing new life many restrictions, though, and despite as memories are renewed simply greatest hopes, hardships can rise because of what we do, where we may unexpectedly. Whether personally or be and who’s beside us. emotionally. Michael Parsons, Sharon Groom, During Covid, our Club developed Angela Heenan and Jessica Stoker an additional response to those who – Your Welfare Team may find themselves vulnerable- specifically to essential needs and some 32 Grocery Care packages were delivered where urgency was identified. One such recipient was Mavis. 102 years young and housebound due to Government advices. Over the last 18 years, she has lost all her children. Although extended family hold her close, Mavis is a lady, who otherwise remains fiercely independent, continuing to do her own driving, cleaning, shopping beyond other things. In the high point of imposed isolation her perspective was, “usually I’d drive (still has her full licence), but I didn’t want to get picked up by the Police and the Doctor has told me to stay put.” A very proud lady un-used to any higher profile than that which defines her most days – a gently quiet existence. Mavis also became 1 of 3 Legacy beneficiaries who appeared on ABC 7.30 report 23/4/20 with her perspective on how this year’s Anzac day Commemoration will be very different for us all.

2 CHATTERBOX 90 Coast when she was 50 after their girls married and Gone But Not Forgotten moved to Victoria. She worked part-time in Mays Olive Chesterton: Our lives are not just measured in Drapery at The Entrance and loved it. She is recalled years. They are measured in the lives we touch around often saying that she was surprised she could manage us. the work, especially the maths entailed added to the fact We would like to take this moment to celebrate the life she says she was a shy person which had to be overcome. of an extraordinary beneficiary. Mrs Olive Chesterton. As a result of War complications, her beloved Albert Olive was enrolled with Brisbane Water NSW Legacy passed away suddenly at 68. After this most difficult Club 14th September 1998 and was our Club’s (possibly personal loss, Olive moved from their Blue Bay home ANY Legacy Club’s) oldest living widow. Sadly, Olive to a villa in Reynolds Court where she lived for over 30 passed away 7/6/20 – aged 105 years and 1 day. Her years before moving into residential care at age 100. family have graciously shared thoughts of her life that During that time Olive made some lovely friends. One we may all know her. in particular, ‘Billie’, coaxed her into joining the Golden At a visit 29th August 2018, I recall Olive telling me Hind Ladies Bowls Club where much to her surprise, she was never one to enjoy the spotlight. Respectfully having never played sport, she loved it. Olive and Billie though, and with all honesty, this is something she also spent a great deal of time selling Legacy raffle undoubtedly deserves today. tickets in the main street of The Entrance. Olive was born in Stanmore on 6 June 1915. She Olive lived a quiet but fortunate life. She was loved by married Albert Chesterton in 1938 and they lived in her wonderful husband, adored by their 2 children, 7 Forest Lodge, a small inner-city suburb of Sydney. They grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, extended family had 2 daughters – Gwen born in 1940 and Kathleen in members and close friends. Godspeed Olive. 1944. Welfare Officer Michael Parsons Albert served in the Army during the Second World War and was deployed to New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. It was during this time that Olive, like so many other young wives and mothers, took over all of the household responsibilities and the care of their young children. On the night the Japanese submarines were caught in Sydney Harbour she remembered standing out in the street with the other wives. Quite unsettled, it wasn’t until early morning hours and the milkman coming along in his cart that they were told to all to go inside to bed. Apart from the Boer War in South Africa 1899-1902 and the Boxer Rebellion in China 1900-1901, Olive has lived throughout all wars/conflicts Australia has been involved in. Amongst many few, and for only the second time in our Nation’s history, she also found herself facing social impact challenges not experienced since the worldwide outbreak of the Spanish flu in 1919 through the universally present and significant concerns around the spread of COVID – 19 Coronavirus. She has seen 25 Prime Ministers and was proud of the fact that she has never missed voting in any election. She had been known to get upset if anyone mentioned that as she was over 100, she didn’t need to vote. A very proud Australian. Olive would often say that she had no education, leaving school at 13 to start work, initially at a Sydney restaurant. One of her famous sayings was, “the same man who invented work, invented pay day.” Others were, “don’t get your aspirations mixed up with your capabilities” and, “self-praise is no recommendation.” Olive worked hard all her life. In addition to keeping a perfect home for her husband and daughters, she’d apply herself equally to any sort of manual and sometimes menial work. Olive and Albert moved to the Central

CHATTERBOX 90 3 NAME THAT CHILD

You have heard them on the phone. You have seen them in your home. 1 You have spoken to them at a function. Who are they? Can you guess who they are? Turn to pages 14 and 15 and see how many you got correct!

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4 CHATTERBOX 90 NAME THAT CHILD

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CHATTERBOX 90 5 WE’LL MEET AGAIN:

Early life: Vera Margaret Welch During the war years, she was born on the 20 March toured Egypt, India and Burma 1917 in East Ham, Essex the giving outdoor concerts for daughter of plumber Bertram the troops. In March 1944, Samuel Welch and dressmaker she went to Shamshernagar Annie Martin. In 1919, when airfield in Bengal to entertain Lynn was two years old, she the troops before the Battle fell ill with diphtheritic croup of Kohima. In 1985, she and nearly died. She began received the Burma Star for performing publicly at the entertaining British guerrilla age of seven and adopted units in Japanese-occupied her maternal grandmother Burma. Margaret Lynn's maiden name as her stage name when Lynn visited hospitals during the war years she was eleven. Her first radio broadcast was in 1935. interviewing new mothers and sending personal In 1941, Lynn married Harry Lewis, a clarinettist and messages to their husbands overseas. Lynn devoted saxophonist. They had one child in March 1946, Virginia much time and energy to charity work connected with Penelope Anne Lewis. Lynn said her reason for only ex-servicemen, disabled children and breast cancer. having one child was so that she could carry on working She was held in great affection by Second World War and would have been unable to do so had she had more veterans and in 2000 was named the Briton who best children. exemplified the spirit of the 20th century. Post-war career: After the war, she remained popular, Wartime career: Lynn became known as "the Forces' appearing on radio and television in the United Kingdom Sweetheart" a British singer, songwriter and entertainer and the United States. Her last single, "I Love This whose musical recordings and performances were Land", was released to mark the end of the Falklands largely popular during the Second World War. Lynn's War. At the age of 92, she became the oldest living artist wartime contribution began when she would sing to to top the UK Albums Chart with the compilation album people who were using London's tube station platforms We'll Meet Again: The Very Best of Vera Lynn. In 2017 as air raid shelters—she would drive there in her Austin she released Vera Lynn 100, a compilation album of hits 7 car. Vera would later entertain troops in Egypt, India to commemorate her centennial year—it was a No. 3 and Burma during the war. The song most associated hit, making her the first centenarian performer to have with her was "We'll Meet Again", written by Ross Parker a Top 10 album in the charts. and Hughie Charles. She first recorded it in 1939 with Arthur Young and later again in 1953 accompanied by Later years: Lynn sang outside Buckingham Palace in servicemen from the British Armed Forces. Another 1995 in a ceremony that marked the golden jubilee of favourite song of the wartime was" The White Cliffs of VE Day. The United Kingdom's VE Day ceremonies in Dover", words by Nat Burton, music by Walter Kent. In 2005 included a concert in Trafalgar Square, London, 1941, during the darkest days of the Second World War, in which Lynn made a surprise appearance. She made Lynn began her own radio programme. She and her a speech praising the veterans and calling upon the quartet performed songs most requested by the soldiers. younger generation always to remember their sacrifice and joined in with a few bars of "We'll Meet Again". The following year Lynn gave a speech in which she said: "These boys gave their lives, and some came home badly injured, and for some families’ life would never be the same. We should always remember, we should never forget, and we should teach the children to remember”. In September 2008, Lynn helped launch a new social history-recording website, "The Times of My Life", at the Cabinet War Rooms in London. Lynn published her autobiography, Some Sunny Day, in 2009. At the 2018 Classic Brit Awards Lynn received two nominations. The first was for Female Artist of the Year and the other was Album of the Year. Lynn was also the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. In January 2020, a portrait of Lynn was unveiled at the Royal Albert Hall in connection with the 75th anniversary of the peace. The portrait is painted by Ross

6 CHATTERBOX 90 A TRIBUTE TO DAME VERA LYNN

Kolby and was unveiled by Lynn's daughter Virginia Honours: Dame Vera Margaret Lynn CH DBE OStJ was Lewis-Jones and Britain's Got Talent winner Colin honoured with the following: Thackery. The painting will be on permanent display at • War Medal 1939–1945 the venue where Lynn performed 52 times from 1937 to • Burma Star 2006. • Order of the British Empire On 5 April 2020 the song "We'll Meet Again" was • Officer, appointed "for services to the Royal Air Forces echoed by Queen Elizabeth II in a television address she Association and other charities" (1969 New Year delivered addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. For the Honours). 75th anniversary of VE Day, Lynn and Katherine Jenkins • Dame, appointed for charitable services (1975 Birthday duetted virtually (Jenkins singing next to a hologram) Honours). at the Royal Albert Hall, which was empty due to the • Officer of the Order of Saint John (1997) COVID-19 pandemic. • Member of Order of the Companions of Honour (2016 Birthday Honours), appointed for services to entertainment and charity. • Commander of the Order of Orange-Nassau, The Netherlands (1977) Sadly the much-loved entertainer, whose voice brought Britain together during the second world war, passed away on the 18th June 2020 at the age of 103.Her family said they were “deeply saddened to announce the Charity work: In 1953, Lynn formed the cerebral palsy passing of one of Britain’s charity SOS (The Stars Organisation for Spastics) best-loved entertainers”, and that they were with her and became its chairperson. The Vera Lynn Charity when she died at her East Sussex home. Breast Cancer Research Trust was founded in 1976, Boris Johnson paid tribute, saying: “Dame Vera Lynn’s with Lynn its chairperson and later its president. In charm and magical voice entranced and uplifted our 2002, Lynn became president of the cerebral palsy country in some of our darkest hours. Her voice will live charity The Dame Vera Lynn Trust for Children with on to lift the hearts of generations to come.” Labour Cerebral Palsy, and hosted a celebrity concert on its leader Keir Starmer wrote: “Her songs still speak to the behalf at Queen Elizabeth Hall in nation in 2020 just as they did in 1940.” London. In 2008, Lynn became patron of the charitable Forces Literary Organisation Worldwide for ALL. She became the patron of the Dover War Memorial Project in 2010; the same year she became patron of the British charity Projects to Support Refugees from Burma/Help 4 Forgotten Allies. In 2013 she joined a PETA campaign against pigeon racing, stating that the sport is "utterly cruel”. In August 1985, she appeared on stage at Crystal Palace Bowl, with several rock bands, for the finale of a benefit concert for Pete Townshend's Double-O anti-heroin charity.

CHATTERBOX 90 7 Kind hearts

Not long ago, our Club was approached by Carley, the mother of a Terrigal family, wishing to donate an array of new, in box, toys. These were ‘family’ gifts originally intended for their own children last Christmas. While we could all agree that Christmas is a time for giving, it’s when that giving extends beyond four walls, that an almost tangible sentiment act of kindness, of generosity is truly born. For whatever reason and possibly regardless of another Australian black summer with fire blazes and tremendous personal losses, 3 young kind hearts – brothers, Brayden 13yo,Nate 8yo and Kobi 6yo decided NOT to open some of their own gifts. It was their preference to offer them to our Club for distribution amongst Junior Family beneficiaries who, they felt may be less fortunate than them. This is a family who are an example of charity from home. A family who didn’t have to think twice about Legacy. Interestingly, Dad, Robert became a BWL Junior some 20 years ago at age 14yo. At the time of his enrolment, he was living with his mother and grandmother, Marion, in her home. Marion, born 20/12/1919 was also a BWL widow and only passed away in August 2018. Robert, Carley and their boys remain in Marions home. Undeniably, the Legacy circle continues generationally. Pictures of the boys and their gifts are included. Nate is holding the bag of gifts.

ANZAC DAY FUNDRAISER: We could not have done this without the help of our wonderful chef, Rebecca Law, who worked tirelessly Coast Break Café – Coffee On baking and packaging 2,000 biscuits, all while raising Wheels a young family herself. It was an incredible effort and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts, you are a Hi guys, we want to introduce you to Anna, the face wonderful human being and a true angel. behind the Anzac Day fundraiser! And a very special thanks to Pullman Magenta Shores Anna worked hard on this one, from collecting and Resort for the use of their kitchen facilities and allowing collating orders, doing letterbox drops, taste testing each Rebecca the opportunity to work her magic in familiar surrounds. day just to make sure she was happy with the product, Thanks to everyone who purchased biscuits and made and finally delivering most of the orders. donations. This turned out way bigger than any of us With your help, the total amount raised with biscuit expected, and Anna would not have been able to pull this sales and other donations collected along the way was off without your support – you guys are awesome! $1,000.00 which will be donated to Brisbane Water NSW Sometimes a small idea can turn out to be a great Legacy. idea!

8 CHATTERBOX 90 NEW NORMAL

During the Covid 19 pandemic, especially during the period from March to May, the Legatees and Staff continued to work ensuring our beneficiaries were not forgotten about, and that they were ok. Contact was made to all of our enrolled beneficiaries, the Legacy Office underwent some minor adjustments to ensure the staff, residents and visitors were safe, delivered hampers to those vulnerable beneficiaries, and if any meetings held, were held within the social distancing recommendations.

MOTHERS DAY 2020 Missed holding our Annual Mothers Day High Tea this year, so we delivered “high tea in a box” to our Legacy Village Residents. Happy Mother’s Day to all the mums.

CHATTERBOX 90 9 CENTENARIANS

When you were young, did you ever think about the In 2015, Jessie moved to Saratoga to live next door to possibility of living to 100? Was it ever a distraction her daughter where she still resides. daydream, or just something too far away to be Jessie celebrated her 100th Birthday surrounded by considered important at that time? With some honesty, family in January this year. Jessie has 5 children, 13 days just seemed to last forever back then. Grandchildren, 22 Great grandchildren and another due There could be no doubt, that as we grow older, our in November 2020. perspectives change. We become more familiar with Vera “Joyce” Tee – (As told 16/6/2020) the thought that time is possibly our most precious resource. Circumstances can sometimes remind us I was born Vera “Joyce” Nash the 5th of 9 children (4 we should never turn our backs on it. The value of girls and 5 boys) on the 7th December 1919 in the NSW life lies within every second. Every second. CS Lewis country town of Canowindra. My brothers, sisters and I once wrote… ‘The present is the point time touches would travel to school by horse and sulky. eternity’. What happens within it can only be explained When I finished as a wonderful tapestry of events that culminate in an my schooling, exquisite sublime plan. I worked as a However long we live, all any of us could really hope domestic, which for, is to be able to say that whatever we have tried to was very common do in life, we have tried to do well; that whatever we for young country have devoted ourselves to, we have devoted ourselves girls back then. completely; that in great aims and in small, we have WW2 saw been equally sincere. three of my four As a continuing anniversary article, for those of us brothers join up among our Legacy family who have reached that most and although he wondrous milestone, who have become Centenarians could have, the since last August, we celebrate and recognise the youngest brother treasure of their lives. Achieving this uniquely amazing did not see service occasion deservedly warrants great honour. as my parents did We share the thoughts of 11 of our most special ladies. not want another Jessie Tame – (as told 15/6/2020) son to go to war. I met my husband Reg while playing in a tennis Jessie was born in Fremantle East, WA on the 16/1/1920. competition with another local town. Reg was born Jessie was one of three girls to Arthur and Florence Arthur Reginald in Canowindra NSW 29/12/1917. Reg Hepburn. had a motorbike and would often offer to take me for a She met her husband William ride; “I never once rode that bike”. Tame in Fremantle Reg’s family owned a flourmill; the Tee family built 1943 when he a mill at the corner of Blatchford and Mill Streets in arrived back from readiness for the opening of the long-awaited railway in service in the Middle July 1910. Reg enlisted in the Army at Leppington NSW East. They were later I married Reg on 1/11/1941 when he returned on leave, married in 1944 in Reg would see active service in Moritai. Fremantle, shifted Reg and I had 4 children our daughter Zoane and our to Manly November 3 sons Franklyn, Colin (dec), and Donald. We moved 1944 and then to to the Central Coast January 1965 to give the family Erina on the Central more opportunities. Zoane married a farmer from Coast in 1951, to Canowindra, Franklyn became a mechanic, Colin a a 10-acre property that they share farmed with their carpenter and Donald a plumber. neighbours growing vegetables for market. From 1958, I am the oldest and longest attending parishioner of Jessie worked in the cafeteria at the Erina drive in movie Ettalong Uniting Church, which I still attend regularly, theatre. I am well known for my baking skills turning out many They moved to Wamberal in 1970 where Jessie took up sponges for the church stalls. I still do the odd baking golf at the Terrigal Golf Club and played until she was in recently doing some lemon drops. her early 80's. From then on Jessie continued to attend I believe I owe my longevity to good food, playing every Saturday to assist with marking the scorecards for tennis and cricket, never smoking or drinking alcohol the Saturday Men and Women’s Golf Competitions and but mostly the love of my children, 6 grandchildren and was made a Patron of the Ladies Golf club. 14 great grandchildren.

10 CHATTERBOX 90 CENTENARIANS

Joyce Cook – (as told 18/6/2020) joined the A.I.F. to serve Joyce was born in Sydney 26 August 1920 being the his country during fourth youngest of 10 children. She spent her earliest the Second World War. years in Sydenham where she recalled being surrounded He was captured by by paddocks and horse and carts. Japanese soldiers in the She later fall of Singapore and moved to sent to a P.O.W. camp Arncliffe where at Naoetsu. He spent she spent her four years there during teenage years which time he proposed and recalls to Joy via a letter – of going to dances course she said "yes"! He although her returned in September strict Mother 1945 and they were would go cross married six weeks later. on her if she Joy devoted her life ever arrived to restoring Theo to home later than health. midnight. During their later years Joy and Theo travelled She met and extensively including several trips to Japan. Joy married the love attributes her long life to her parents. Joy maintains a of her life Eric keen interest in world and local events has a wonderful Cook who was sense of humour and excellent memory. She enjoys a sent to fight in New Guinea in WW11 and had a first largely independent life and is grateful for the ongoing child being a daughter while he was away. interest by Legacy in her welfare. Joyce had two more children, both being boys, and was constantly cooking biscuits, scones and cakes to treat Rita Thom – (as told 24/6/2020) the family. Rita was born in ln years to come she always provided sweet slices for Dungog NSW in family gatherings which were always snapped up quickly, 1920, was the second She moved to Saratoga on the Central Coast in 1979 eldest of five children, when Eric retired although he passed away 12 months four sisters and one later. brother. Rita moved Her youngest son taught her to drive at 6O years of out of home at the age age and she continued to do so until turning 75. of fifteen to work on a She was well loved at Gosford Senior Citizens where cattle station. she was involved with carrying out kitchen duties until Rita met her leaving around 89 years of age. husband to be, Rod, at She lived on her own at Saratoga until turning 96 a dance in Goulburn and then moved to Aurrum Aged Care Facility at Erina from then on they where she continues to be a favourite of the nursing were together. They staff. married at Bargo and Joyce will turn 1OO years of age this August although had four children, two with the current COVID 19 situation may not be allowed boys and two girls, Rita was a stay at home mother and out of the facility to celebrate. Rod was a bricklayer, the family had a lovely home life. I believe that the contributing factor to her longevity Rita was a great sports lady, she was a champion golfer, was the love of her family, her constant intake of fresh then as she got older was a champion bowler. fruit and vegetables and her love of doing word puzzles. After her husband passed away at the age of 61, Rita travelled with friends and saw most of the world, before Joyce Lee – (as told 19/6/2020) moving to the Central Coast, where she lived for 30 Mrs Joyce Lee of Broadwater Court in Kincumber will years at Woodport retirement village Erina, where she celebrate her 100th birthday on 16th August 2020. Joyce still currently resides and is now 100 years old. (known to her family and friends as Joy). Spent most of Rita has a large family consisting of four children, her life in Sydney. Joy worked at Beard Watsons where ten grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren. Rita is a she met her future husband Theo in 1936. During their sweet and loving lady her family love her dearly. courtship Theo, later a manager at Prouds the Jeweller

CHATTERBOX 90 11 CENTENARIANS

Edna Mary Taylor – (As told on 24/6/20) together, 3 girls and a boy. I now have 10 grandchildren I was born Edna Mary Tait the 2nd of 3 children all girls and 14 great grandchildren “that I know of”. My son on 20/10/1919 in Marrickville NSW. Our father returned moved on to the Central Coast, we then moved to San home from WW1 an unwell man after being gassed at Remo shortly after as my husband loved fishing. Gallipoli; he passed away when I was only 7years old. I I have never drunk alcohol or smoked cigarettes, as my attended Marrickville Primary School and then on to father was too strict! My mother was 5 weeks off turning Enmore High School. 100. I would go on to Following my husband’s passing, I have been very work for many years involved in Torchbearers and Toukley Widows, which I at the Wool mills have thoroughly enjoyed. in Marrickville, Betty Richards – (as told 26/6/2020) before marrying and I was born in Newcastle and attended an all-girls High having 4 daughters Maureen, Rhonda, School. I am the middle child of three, with an elder Lynette (dec) and sister and younger brother. Glenys. I would later I was a Stenographer divorce and marry at NESCA House for the second time Newcastle and the a lovely man Ron. Director at Gosford Pre- Ron was a waterfront School for 17 years. worker who I met I met my husband, when playing outdoor bowls. Ron played football for Lionel, when I was 22 Newtown Jets and was also a very good cricketer. I would at a Rotary Ball, he was often do the scoring when he was playing cricket. on leave from the Army We moved to Ettalong many years ago where we were to visit friends. Lionel very happy, sadly, I lost Ron in 1991. I soon decided worked for the post after becoming a Legacy widow to move into the Legacy office, so we were always village where I lived for 19 years. I was very happy there changing address, we and I had many friends. have lived in Newcastle, Shortly before my 100th birthday, I decided that I Casino, Berrigan, Woy would enter aged care. I miss the Legacy village, the Woy, Gosford & Killarney Vale. Legacy staff and my friends. Lionel and I were married at 24, and had 3 beautiful I believe I owe my longevity to having been a hard children, we were married 62 years before his passing. I worker, often working 2 jobs. I am glad that the TV was now have 6 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and 1 invented and remember watching a program “Tell the great-great grandchild. Truth”. I was very involved in Guides, Brownies, Save the Children and an avid piano player. Rita Packham – (as told 25/6/2020) I don’t know the secret to longevity, but I know it’s I was born in Emmaville and reared on a farm, I moved important to always smile and be kind. to Sydney with my Aunty when I was 18 and worked in hospitals. Irene McIntyre – (as told 26/06/2020) I met my I was born in husband, Harry, London, my via his Sister mother was a whom I worked dress maker, my with, we married father was in the just before he NAVY in WW1, went off to war, he had travelled unfortunately, he all over the world returned very sick. and had a brother Harry and I living in Australia, built a home at he liked it here so Riverstone and he decided to stay, lived there for I was three when 40 years. We had we moved here. three children We lived on Rodd

12 CHATTERBOX 90 CENTENARIANS

Island, Sydney, as my father was the caretaker for 20 Joan Isabel Smith – (as told 7/7/2020) years. I was born Joan I met my husband at School, his sister was in my class, Isabel Masters on she sadly passed away at 16, and after that I became 15/6/1920, the a member of his family. We were married at 23, then eldest of 8 children Ron went off to the NAVY. After his return, we had 3 in Rockdale. children, one boy and two girls. My father was a During the war, I was working in a chemical factory, returned service Woolwich-Elliott, they produced products such as ether man of WW1. On and antiseptics for medical workers. his return, he became a police We built our first home at Ryde, which is where we magistrate, which raised our children. We had a weekender on the Central saw us move around Coast at Killarney Vale and eventually we retired there. to many of his My family still live close by. I have 6 grandchildren (1 country postings. deceased) and 11 great grandchildren. I met my husband I think it’s important to always stay fit, keep moving. Noel who was I’ve always been very healthy and active I loved to play a champion swimmer when I moved to Manly from tennis and bowls. Yass when looking for work at the age of 20. I was Joan Meade – (as told 1/7/2020) a bookseller providing many books for libraries. We I was born in London married and moved to an air force training camp where and worked as a he trained as a dive-bomber pilot for WW11. We had 3 children a daughter Lyndsay, son Ross who we sadly lost stationer at a printer’s in the Vietnam War and another daughter Lisa. office near St Pauls I have always felt fortunate, I still have a passion for Cathedral, London. gardening, I have enjoyed having the ability to access In 1942, I became a world literature. I have enjoyed listening to Frank Teleprinter Operator Sinatra and still enjoy classical music. in the Royal Corps I owe my longevity to good genes as my mother lived of Signals. I would till 88years and my father 98years of age. take the Tube Train to work and, on my way, I would knit “you Marketing / Nuisance Calls don’t get undesirables sitting next to you if If you feel you’re getting too many you were knitting”. marketing or nuisance calls, you can contact I met my late husband, Bryan at the Services Club the ‘Do Not Call’ register on 1300 792 958 or Dance in 1944. Bryan was a Rear Air gunner in the go to donotcall.gov.au. Some organisations RAAF, and we married in 1945. Wedding dresses were that have your consent or are exempt may hard to come by at the time, so I borrowed a dress from my cousin’s wife. still call you occasionally. Bryan returned to Australia and I soon followed with the other “War Brides” on the boat, at the time I was 7 months pregnant with my son. Legal appointments available to all We were living in Hurstville and raised our family, 2 enrolled beneficiaries at boys and a girl, in Riverwood. After my husband passed Legacy Village, 51-57 Masons away, the children and I moved to the Central Coast. Now at the bright age of 100, I have 4 grandchildren Parade, and 5 great grandchildren. I still thoroughly enjoy Point Frederick, knitting; I knit squares and donate them to the charity every Wednesday 10:00am “Wild Woolies”. I also do the daily crossword in the Please phone the newspaper. I can’t tell you the secret to longevity, but I believe Legacy Office on eating good foods, being active and social are very 4323 4977 important… or perhaps it could be knitting!

CHATTERBOX 90 13 THE LEGACY STAFF

Did you guess correctly on page 4? Here’s the answers! 1

Photo 1 – Heather Wilby Heather started her Legacy journey in 2000, starting as the receptionist. She has now moved a few seats, and her role as an Executive Operational Support includes providing executive support to the CEO and Board of Directors, managing the Legacy Village, and event coordination. You never see her, she’s always tucked away either in the back of the office, or the back of the kitchen… so this is what she looks like!

Photo 2 – Michael Parsons Michael is one of the old timers of the team, having joined in 2000. He heads up the Welfare Team, as the Team Leader. He loves to get out and about visiting our beneficiaries. He has a love for the West Tigers NRL team, he also thinks he can sing, regularly belting out ‘Are You Lonesome Tonight’ – just this line over and 2 over and over…

Photo 3 – Jessica Stoker Jessica joined Legacy in 2008 and started as an Administration Assistant. Following a reshuffle of roles, Jess became part of the Welfare Team as a Welfare Officer and loves visiting our beneficiaries. Jess is the fittest person on this planet, and loves to be exercising, whether it’s a session at the gym, a long run on the beach or a gentle walk with her family.

Photo 4 – Angela Heenan The newbie to the team, Ange joined us in 2017 as a Welfare Officer. She enjoys visiting our beneficiaries, as well as ensuring our events are decorated to the highest standard. A secret about Ange – she is a super clean freak… during the Covid 19 lockdown, her phone and keyboard were regularly covered in cling wrap! 3 Photo 5 – Ian Redden Ian joined Legacy in 2012 with his role being one of our Maintenance Officers in the Legacy Village. He is also a trained Chef, and enjoys getting into the kitchen to cook meals for our events. Ian loves to surf regularly at one of the many Central Coast beaches. He also loves to watch the Central Coast Mariners games at our stadium.

Photo 6 – Peter Groom Peter joined Legacy in 2002, starting out as Administration Support. Fast forward a few years and he is now our ‘Information Technology’ IT-wizz guy, as well as looking after payroll, welfare administration and other accounting tasks. He is also the lucky guy married to our Sharon Groom.

14 CHATTERBOX 90 THE LEGACY STAFF

Photo 7 – Sharon Groom 4 Most people know who Sharon is, having been one of our Welfare Officers since 2009. She loves to get out and about around the coast, visiting our beneficiaries, listening to their many stories, and assisting where she can. Heart of gold, Sharon is such a character, is always up for a laugh and a great friend to have by our sides.

Photo 8 – Maree Brown Maree is our very efficient Administration Assistant, who supports the entire team of 12. She is the face and voice of Legacy – the first person you see in the office, and the first voice you hear on the telephone. Joining us in 2017, Maree has settled well into her much loved role. She is kind hearted and willing to give anything a go – usually in heels!

6 8

CHATTERBOX 90 15 THE LEGACY STAFF

Photo 9 – Peter Lawley Photo 11 – Chris O’Malley Peter joined Legacy in 2010 in his role as Chief Executive Chris joined Legacy in 2013 as our main Legacy Bus Officer. Peter is a born and bred Gosford boy, who used driver. There is nothing more he loves to do than take to wander past the Legacy Village as a small child our beneficiaries out on trips around the Coast, Sydney dreaming of what he could bring to Legacy. Today, he or the Newcastle areas, or take our village residents out is proud to lead such a great organisation. Very multi to the shops. Its no secret he loves to sing, regularly skilled… one day he’s the boss, the next he is fixing knocking out a few tunes on the bus. He has also been a door handle in the village, next he’s in the kitchen known to ‘steal’ the microphone at our events too. plating up vegetables, or his favourite… assisting Peter and Shane in the bar. 11

Photo 12 – Colin Bullard Photo 10 – Shane Gough Colin is one of our Maintenance Officers and Bus We first met Shane in 2012 as a young university Drivers at the Legacy Village. He initially started with accountancy student looking to do some work Legacy in 2005 at our aged care facility at Wyoming, experience, and happily, he hasn’t left! He is now the moving across to the village. He is a genuine Parramatta Company Accountant, ensuring we comply with the Eels supporter, a Star Wars fan from day dot, and who financial rules and regulations for the organisation. loves nothing more than exploring the country with his If you attend our functions, you are likely to see him family. behind the bar.

12 10

16 CHATTERBOX 90 HISTORY OF TIRPITZ Allied resources for other theatres of war including in the Pacific to fight Japanese forces. Tirpitz was the second of two Bismarck class battleships Nos 9 and 617 Squadrons have had a long running of the German Navy during the Second World War. She rivalry over which unit deserves credit for destroying was the sister ship of the Bismarck but 2000 tonnes Tirpitz. In 1950 Norwegian Government presented the heavier. RAF with part of the Tirpitz bulkhead removed from Her location in Norwegian waters forced the British the wreck. This led to elaborate operations by the two Royal Navy to retain significant naval forces in the area. squadrons to steal this trophy from one another. In 2002 In September 1943, she bombarded Allied positions it was handed over to the RAF Museum in London. on Spitzbergen. Shortly after she was damaged in an So why is all of this of interest to members of Brisbane attack by British submarines and subsequently she was Water Legacy and readers of Chatterbox? subjected to a series of large scale air raids by the RAF. One of our widows, Doreen Woolf, has a piece of On the 10th of November 1944, the Lancaster crew Tirpitz, as her husband Bob was in Bomber Command from Bomber Command were briefed for another attack and was part of Operation Catechism. Bob, who was on Tirpitz. Twenty planes from No 9 Squadron and born in Newcastle, moved to Sydney where he lived in nineteen from No 617 Squadron were sent to Northern the Eastern suburbs and attended Sydney Boys High. Scotland to ready themselves for an attack on Tirpitz. When he enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force, he They came from RAF bases at Kinloss, Lossiemouth and became part of the Empire Training Scheme which saw Milltown. him complete his training in Canada before becoming This attack was to be named Operation Catechism and part of Bomber Command with the Royal Air Force. He 32 Lancasters were dispatched together with a Lancaster was part of Operation Catechism as a wireless operator Film aircraft from No 463 Squadron RAAF. Some planes of one of the planes of No.9 Squadron. Doreen was were unable to participate because they couldn’t be from Sydney and married Bob in 1945. She had been cleared of the snow and ice that had formed on them part of the war effort, helping to manufacture Army overnight. uniforms. They had two daughters and Bob helped to As weather conditions cleared 617 Squadron led by author a book about No.9 Squadron. Each year that she Wing Commander Willie Tait began the attack followed is able, Doreen attends the Bomber Command Service by 9 Squadron. Tait’s aircraft dropped its Tallboy bomb at the Australian War Memorial to lay a wreath in Bob’s which hit Tirpitz and was followed by the rest of 617 Squadron. By the time 9 Squadron started dropping memory. He received The Arctic Star and clasp to signify their Tallboys, Tirpitz was on fire and covered in smoke his involvement in this particular theatre of the war. and crews of several Lancasters reported seeing Tirpitz To some this just looks like a piece of wood but to capsize. many it means so much more. In the days after Legatee Kathy Patterson the attack, the airmen received congratulations from King George VI, Prime Minister Winston Churchill, the War Cabinet and many others were granted a 48 hour period of leave. The success of operation Catechism led to celebrations in Allied countries because Tirpitz was seen as a symbol of the Nazi regime and her destruction proved further evidence that the war was coming to an end. Tirpitz’s destruction freed up

CHATTERBOX 90 17 COMMEMORATIVE MEDALLION & CERTIFICATE OF COMMEMORATION

The 15th of August The obverse 2020, marks the design will feature 75th anniversary the Commonwealth of the end of the Coat of Arms, Second World War, wording of Victory in Pacific appreciation and Day, ending a war identify by name, that cost millions theatres of war that of lives across the saw the significant world. involvement Acknowledging of Australian the significance Armed Forces. of the 75th The medallion anniversary of the end of the Second World War, reverse design utilises the poppy as the central symbol the Department of Veterans’ Affairs will produce surrounded by the wording of ‘Australia Remembers’ a Commemorative Medallion and Certificate of and the beginning and end years of the Second World Commemoration. War. More than one million Australian men and women The medallion will be presented in a display case and fought to protect our country and our allies, fighting will include a card that explains the design and contains in theatres of war from Europe to North Africa, the a brief expression of thanks. The theatres of war detailed Mediterranean and the Middle East, to Asia and the on the medallion are based on locations identified within Pacific, with the conflict also reaching Australian the Commemorative Courtyard of the Australian War shores. Memorial (AWM). The design of the commemorative The Department recognises that this may be one of certificate will complement the medallion. The design the last opportunities we have as a nation to publicly includes the Commonwealth Coat of Arms, ‘Australia acknowledge the remaining veterans of the Second Remembers’ wording and the beginning and end year of World War, of which there are around 12,000 still with 75 years of the anniversary, i.e. 1945 -2020. us. The certificate will be contained within its own folder The medallion and certificate will be made available that will allow for independent display, framing and to every living veteran of the Second World War. While mounting. Eligible veterans or their families on their Australia can never repay the debt we owe almost one behalf, are invited to apply. million Australians who served, this medallion and Applications can be made either online at www.dva. certificate are a small but meaningful way we can thank gov.au/medallion or, for those without internet access, living veterans of the largest global conflict of the 20th by phone on 02 61918217 during business hours. century. This application period extends until 15/8/2021.

CONTINUING OUR LEGACY OF CARE

Please send me information on Helping as a Legacy volunteer How to make a bequest to Legacy Enclosed is my gift of $______to the Legacy family My cheque is enclosed or Debit my Credit Card |___ |___ |___ |___ | |___ |___ |___ |___ | |___ |___ |___ |___ | |___ |___ |___ |___ | Visa Amex MasterCard Name on card ______Expiry Date ______/______CVN number* ______Signature ______Address ______* This number provides extra security for online payments. It ______P/C ______is a 3 digit number on the back of Visa or Mastercard credit Telephone (______) ______cards, or a 4 digit number on the All donations over $2 are tax deductible. back of an AMEX card. Please return this coupon to: Brisbane Water (NSW) Legacy, PO Box 4252, East Gosford, NSW 2250

18 CHATTERBOX 90 Book Review Kathy’s Kitchen

It’s Not All Downhill From Here Roast Tomato Soup Terry McMillan With the cold weather and COVID it is a good time to make soup. Loretha Curry has a full life, a little crowded sometimes, I find with both tomatoes and pumpkin, roasting gives a but full indeed. better flavour. Tomorrow she will celebrate her sixty-eighth birthday. • Roast halved tomatoes, garlic cloves, sliced onions, She has a successful beauty-supply empire, a group red capsicum, sprinkle with Italian herbs, olive oil of lifelong friends, and a husband who adores her. True, and balsamic vinegar. she’s carrying a little extra weight than she should be, but Loretha is not one of those women who think her • Remove skin from capsicum and add 2 cups of best days are behind her – and she’s determined to prove chicken stock and blend to your chosen consistency to her mother, her twin sister, and everyone else with in a bowl. that outdated view of ageing that they are wrong. • Reheat and add more stock and water if required. It’s not all downhill from here. • Add chopped parsley or chives. An unexpected loss turns her world upside down. • Serve with crusty bread. Loretha will have to summon all her strength, Legatee Kathy Patterson resourcefulness, and determination to keep on thriving, pursue joy, heal old wounds, and chart new paths. With a little help from her friends, of course! Terry McMillan received her BA in journalism in 1986 from the University of California at Berkeley and the MFA Film Program at Columbia University. Her work is characterized by strong female protagonists. Mrs Pam Morton

This girl today said she recognized me from the Vegetarians Club, but I’d swear I’ve never met herbivore.

CHATTERBOX 90 19 HEALTH AND SAFETY

Healthy sleep habits on comfortable and supportive mattresses and pillows. Adults and children can also benefit from a calming Sleep glorious sleep! Most of us want more of it. Sleep before-bed routine that avoids the use of electronic determines how well we function during the day, as well as our emotional, developmental and physiological devices. wellbeing. The body and brain will not function if Signs of a sleep problem may include: deprived of sleep, or if sleep is lacking in quality. Sleep is • finding it hard to go to sleep as essential as food, water and oxygen. • restless sleep According to the National Sleep Foundation (www. • waking up during the night or very early in the sleepfoundation.org) the amount of sleep you need varies morning, and not being able to get back to sleep across ages, and is impacted by lifestyle and health. • not feeling refreshed from sleep The diagram outlines the current recommendations. • feeling tired, irritable, anxious or depressed The best habit for healthy sleep is to make sure you get • finding it difficult to concentrate, remember things enough of it. Follow the guidelines and experiment to and make decisions. work out the exact amount of sleep that suits you. Your local pharmacy is your health destination and can A 2013 study of Australian sleep habits found that up provide a range of products, medicines, services and to 35% of us experience sleep difficulties including lack of sleep, fatigue, and problems advice to support healthy sleep initiating or maintaining sleep. habits. These include: Many factors can reduce the • sleeping aids, such as those to quality and quantity of sleep and relieve snoring these include: • prescription and over-the- • sleep environment counter (OTC) medicines • diet • medicine advice, including how • medicines medicines affect sleep • medical conditions • healthy lifestyle tips advice • sleep disorders (e.g. sleep to improve the quality and apnoea). quantity of sleep Females tend to be affected more • services to help you lose weight prevalently by sleep difficulties, • services for sleep disorders (e.g. with the exception of snoring. sleep apnoea). Sleep disorders and medical Pharmacists and pharmacy conditions account for some sleep assistants can help manage difficulties however, most stem sleeping problems. If you think from environmental and lifestyle you may have a sleep problem, choices including: visit your local pharmacy to find • electronic devices, such as out what is available. mobile phones and tablets In addition, you can get in the bedroom. These can more information on healthy affect the body’s ability to sleeping habits from pharmacies wind down before sleep around Australia providing • being overweight or obese • excessive alcohol the Pharmaceutical Society consumption of Australia’s Self Care health • stress. information. Self Care Fact Cards available from these pharmacies To improve your sleep health you can lose weight, practice include topics such as Sleeping relaxation techniques (e.g. problems. meditation), engage in regular For the nearest Self Care exercise, and consume less alcohol pharmacy location phone the and caffeine. It’s also important Pharmaceutical Society of to make sure your environment is Australia on 1300 369 772, or go supportive of healthy sleep. Most to www.psa.org.au ‘Supporting people sleep best in darkened, practice’ then ‘Self Care’, and then quiet rooms with fresh air, and ‘Find a Self Care pharmacy’.

20 CHATTERBOX 90 Sharon Curtis when she asked “has he been eating?” Sharon Lynette Smith was enrolled into the Legacy Knowing that Sharon family on the 19th May 1998 at the age of 35. Together was not well I didn’t with her beautiful mum, she would be cared for by our stay long and as I was club at Brisbane Water Legacy. Sharon would attend about to leave Sharon our outings and events and was always a happy smiling looked straight into woman. my eyes and said, “you Sharon soon met her love, Steven, when working at know I love you”, and Terama and the two married on the 9th of March 2002 I told her I loved her when Sharon would become Sharon Curtis. too. I became Sharon’s Welfare Officer in 2009, when I have been sad I started working with Legacy. Sharon and Steven, since learning Sharon along with Nancy, were always very keen to attend our had passed. I have outings, trips away and Christmas parties, catching up struggled as we, her with their Legacy special needs family and the Legacy loved ones have, but I wanted to do something special for Staff and our Legatees. Sharon from her Legacy family, so I penned this poem. Sharon adored her mother Nancy, and like a good When asked if I would like to say some words here today daughter would, Sharon tried her very best to care for her I shed some tears and wondered just what exactly would mum as her health declined, and continued to do so for 8 I say years until Sharon knew that she couldn’t do it anymore. Sharon felt guilt for choosing to have Nancy placed in How do you put into words how special Sharon really care, but I reassured her that she had done a wonderful was job, Sharon’s response was simple, “well she is my mum”. A few words will never do justice, to how much she was That is the kind and caring person that was Sharon. loved Sharon had many friends at Legacy because she would Sharon was loved by her mother, and her father up spread her happy persona where ever she would go. Her above friends will always remember a kind and happy person, She was loved by her husband, her undeniable true love and I know they all wish they could be here today to say She was loved by her Legacy family, we held her so very their farewells, as I know they will miss her so very much. dear But for me personally, I will miss the way Sharon We will all miss her so much, now that she’s no longer would answer my phone calls in a happy, cheerful voice here Sharon would say “Good morning”, and how she would So fly with the angels, off to heaven you must go end our calls with “goodbye my friend”. But know that you’ll stay in our hearts and know we The last time I saw Sharon was in hospital, although loved you so visibly unwell, her concern was for her husband Steven Welfare Officer Sharon Groom

Aileen Allard Sarah Cunningham Mavis Lee Gloria Archer Shirley Cupitt Ruth Lee Fay Austin Sharon Curtis Jean Lewis Phyllis Sellers Marie Beattie Dora Dwyer Elizabeth Lindsay Helen Simmonds Beryl Beauchamp Muriel Flaherty Helen Lorne-Smith Nancy Smith Joan Blanch Mary Gilbert Beryl Meredith Valda Sparrow Margaret Blossom Eileen Girling Janet Milroy Lorna Tennant June Bourchier Dorothea Gould Patricia Morrissey Shirley Toose Kim Brines Marian Gray Rita Musgrove Helen Watters Betty Buckley Marjorie Greene Joan Northcote Marjorie Burns Margery Hatton Phyllis O’Leary Aileen West Elma Cashman Maureen Hogan Merle Penniall Norma Williams Olive Chesterton Maria Knight Marguerite Piper Betty Wilson Lorna Cook Gwendoline Lane Dorothy Player Alexandria Witt Maureen Cowls Eva Langer Muriel Reynolds Margaret Cummins Pamela Langsford Elaine Robertson

CHATTERBOX 90 21 To Legatee John George, Thank you for your letter The President Legatee John George, Dear Sir, Thank and kindness. Everything is OK – but I’ve kept your you for your kindness in suggesting help in getting letter – if in the future – I will contact you. Thank you provisions etc. but I am quite alright. My daughter takes me or gets them for me – but thank you all the I.E. same. It is a scary time but will make it. Thank you. To Management and Yours sincerely Staff. On behalf of myself and F.G. I can’t thank To Peter Lawley and you enough for all the staff, Thank you for N.L. books for our P.T.S.D. my Mother’s Day To Mr Peter Lawley CEO, Mr John George, Sharon Boys. gift. Groom and all Legacy staff Brisbane Water Legacy. I am writing to thank you all for my surprise D.S. B.P. visit which turned to shock as I refer to the angel delivering three of the largest bags of shopping. Brisbane water Legacy Club, Legatee Jim Butt, It Every item of which I can use. I can’t recall for was lovely surprise to receive your lovely birthday such a large shop coming into my home for such card. It was so nice to be remembered. Also, a long time. The variety is amazing, Too many to thank you for the Chatterbox magazine. There give detail- personal items and book etc. I’m really is always some interesting articles in it and news overwhelmed and humbled and grateful for such of your activities. I thoroughly enjoyed my time a wonderful gift. I wish to thank all the staff who attending the Club and always looked forward have given their time to shop, pack and deliver. I to it. We are in a locked situation of course, but walked around during the day saying to myself, “why I would not be able to attend again. Today in me” how come I deserve such a generous gift and the library we had a service for Anzac day. We thought during times we are experiencing at present. had made poppies at craft and all were wearing I am so grateful for all the effort which went into my one. We had a recording of the Last post and the gift. With much appreciation and with the very best poem In Flanders Fields was said. It reminded wishes and blessings to you all and your families for me of a service in Gunning, I was a school girl 9 healthy and safe times now and times to follow as years old and marched with the Red Cross group. we continue to work through these unprecedented During the service I had to step forward and say times. Appreciation and grateful thanks. P.S. I am that poem! Those days I was confident and had a enjoying all my goodies! So delicious. high clear voice! Very best wishes to you Legatee Jim Butt and your Club always remembered fondly of my time there. Kindest Regards To all at Legacy, staff and Legatees, Thank youG.P. so much for my beautiful floral arrangement and Birthday J.G. greetings recently. Looking forward to resuming Thank you Peter and meetings and bus trips in the near future. Sincerely, Michael, I am sorry the To Legatees and Staff Brisbane Water interview did not go as (NSW) Legacy. Thank you very much R.B. we wanted. Please accept for the beautiful card and the wishes this donation to Brisbane Thank you legatee Cheryl for your it conveyed for my birthday. Best Water Legacy at Gosford. lovely card and best wishes, you all wishes to all. Kind Regards, Sincerely, do a great job. I would like to thank the Legatees and staff also for the M.W. M.B. wonderful hamper they dropped off to Dear Mr Davis, Thank you very much for your me, I thought I was at the Royal Show birthday card and flowers from Brisbane Water Legacy going through the Sample Bags, it was exciting time wondering what goodies I on the occasion of my 90th birthday, it was lovely of was going to find next and it all came in you. I appreciated it very much. Thank you handy. Thank you again very much.

J.B. B.N.

22 CHATTERBOX 90 TOMMY-POW-DIGGER-HORTICULTURIST-CONSERVATIONIST

On April 1, 1927 Peter Cundall was born into an impoverished home in Manchester, England. The During a lesson about adjectives, my conditions were such that he swore off alcohol. After friend, a primary school teacher, asked her three years of formal education he left school at the age class to describe their mothers. One boy of 12 with a love for books and reading and a search for described his mother's hair as auburn. knowledge. Impressed by his sophisticated word Peter worked as a milk boy and tram conductor until choice, my friend asked, "How do you near the end of WW II when he enlisted in the Parachute know her hair colour is auburn?" Her Regiment of the British Army. He saw service in student replied, "Because that's what it occupation forces in France, Austria, Germany, Italy and Yugoslavia as well as the British Mandate for Palestine. says on the box." During this time he increased his knowledge of plants and landscaping by visits to private and public gardens. A farmer had a three-legged— pig and his 1946 saw Peter in southeast Austria. It was here that neighbour asked him why the pig had he became involved with a girl which resulted in him only three legs. "Well, I'll tell you" the crossing the border into Yugoslavia. The girl disappeared farmer replied. "One day I was ploughing and Peter was arrested and sentenced to 4 years gaol my field and the tractor turned over and for espionage. After six months solitary confinement pinned me underneath. That pig ran for pressure from the British Government led to his release. help. He saved my life". "Oh, that's how At the outbreak of the Korean hostilities the he lost his leg?" the neighbour drawled. Australian government called for 1000 men who had "No. One night my wife and I were sound prior military experience in World War II to enlist in the asleep and the house caught on fire. That army for three years, with one year of overseas service pig woke us up. He saved our lives!" "So in Korea. They were called Korean Force or K-Force. that's how he lost his leg", stated the A portion of the force were recruited in Great Britain, neighbour. "No, that wasn't it" the farmer Peter was one of these recruits. affirmed. Exasperated, the neighbour Peter’s hopes for a non-combatant role as a librarian demanded "Then how did he lose his leg?" were dashed with his immediate posting to 3 RAR. and the farmer replied, "When you have (Private Peter Joseph Cundall 210023 Royal Australian a pig that good, you don't eat him all at Infantry Corps 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian once!" Regiment). Once again Peter was a machine gunner. However, Peter did have the opportunity to study Japanese garden design and rock garden construction A police officer stops— a minivan full of as well as visits to bonsai nurseries and new gardens in elderly ladies being driven by an old Hiroshima. gentleman because they’re only going 25 In 1956 Peter moved to Tasmania where he started a mph, stopping the mid-day traffic. - The gardening and landscaping business. In 1967 he started policeman asks the driver why is he going a gardening talkback program on a Launceston radio so slow. - “Well that’s the speed limit, station and in 1969 commenced a gardening program isn’t it! There was a sign saying 25 and for the ABC. Gardening Australia ran until July of 2008. everything!” the driver defends himself. - Peter remained active in his retirement, he showed an The policeman sighs, “No, sir, that’s the interest in politics and the environment. He is a pacifist number of the highway you’re on. It has and has served as the chairman of the Tasmanian nothing to do with the speed limit.” - “Oh, Wilderness Society. He has taken part in a number of so that’s what it means…” says the driver, protests. In 1994 Peter was appointed as an Envoy for the Save the Children Fund. looking shocked. - The officer looks at the In 2006 Peter was named Australian Humanist of the rest of the van and notices the grannies Year and in 2007 he was made a Member of the Order of are looking somewhat frozen and stiff. - Australia. “What’s up with the ladies?” he asks the Legatee Russ Swinden driver. - “Um…” the driver scratches his head, “you see, we just got off highway Sources: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter _Cundall Autralian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs 150…” Korean War Service Record

CHATTERBOX 90 23 Teacher: “Kids, what does the chicken give Two factory workers are talking. The woman you?” says, “I can make the boss give me the day off.” Student: “Meat!” The man replies, “And how would you do that?” Teacher: “Very good! Now what does the pig give The woman says, “Just wait and see.” She then you?” hangs upside down from the ceiling. The boss Student: “Bacon!” Teacher: “Great! And what does the fat cow give comes in and says, “What are you doing?” The you?” woman replies, “I’m a light bulb.” The boss then Student: “Homework!” says, “You’ve been working so much that you’ve gone crazy. I think you need to take the day off.” Teacher: “If I gave you— 2 cats and another 2 cats The man starts to follow her and the boss says, and another 2, how many would you have?” “Where are you going?” The man says, “I’m Johnny: “Seven.” going home, too. I can’t work in the dark.” Teacher: “No, listen carefully... If I gave you two cats, and another two cats and another two, how A doctor and a lawyer —are talking at a party. many would you have?” Johnny: “Seven.” Their conversation is constantly interrupted by Teacher: “Let me put it to you differently. If I gave people describing their ailments and asking the you two apples, and another two apples and doctor for free medical advice. After an hour another two, how many would you have?” of this, the exasperated doctor asks the lawyer, Johnny: “Six.” “What do you do to stop people from asking you Teacher: “Good. Now if I gave you two cats, and for legal advice when you’re out of the office?” another two cats and another two, how many “I give it to them,” replies the lawyer, “and then would you have?” I send them a bill.” The doctor is shocked, but Johnny: “Seven!” agrees to give it a try. The next day, still feeling Teacher: “Johnny, where in the heck do you get slightly guilty, the doctor prepares the bills. seven from?!” When he goes to place them in his mailbox, he Johnny: “Because I’ve already got a cat!” — finds a bill from the lawyer. A woman gets on a bus with her baby. The bus — driver says, “That’s the ugliest baby that I’ve Late one night a burglar broke into a house and ever seen. Ugh!” The woman goes to the rear while he was sneaking around, he heard a voice of the bus and sits down, fuming. She says to a say, “Jesus is watching you.” He looked around man next to her, “The driver just insulted me!” and saw nothing. He kept on creeping and again The man says, “You go right up there and tell heard, “Jesus is watching you.” In a dark corner, him off – go ahead, I’ll hold your monkey for he saw a cage with a parrot inside. The burglar you.” asked the parrot, “Was it you who said Jesús is watching me” The parrot replied, “Yes.” Relieved, A boy asks his father, —“Dad, are bugs good to the burglar asked, “What is your name?” The eat?” “That’s disgusting. Don’t talk about things like that over dinner,” the dad replies. After dinner parrot said, “Clarence.” The burglar said, “That’s the father asks, “Now, son, what did you want a stupid name for a parrot. What idiot named to ask me?” “Oh, nothing,” the boy says. “There you Clarence?” The parrot answered, “The same was a bug in your soup, but now it’s gone.” idiot that named the rottweiler Jesus.”

24 CHATTERBOX 90 AN ANZAC DAY LIKE NO OTHER – BETTY SIMPSON

April 25, 2020 At 6am I held a service in my driveway for Light Up the Dawn to honour our Anzacs and my young neighbour played The Last Post on her flute – it was very moving and there were many tears. I was thrilled that so many of my neighbours chose to share in this special commemoration as we could not wave to the marching Diggers or pay our respects at the Cenotaph as we have always done. This day also happened to by my 90th birthday however many plans had to be cancelled because of the COVID-19 lock down which was very disappointing. A friend from Noosa rang and told me to get myself down to the waterfront (Point Clare near the Marine Rescue Centre) for a surprise at 10.45. On arrival there were two Pipers in full Scottish kilts playing the bagpipes out on the pier for me. My late Husband Mac was a Piper in the 17th Battalion Army Reserve Band and played for the St. George Pipe Band at every Anzac Day march I can remember (often forgetting my birthday). Mac also taught the Bagpipes here on the Central Coast and the two young pipers came from his music school – what a treat and of course, many more tears. This was the spot where I scattered Mac’s ashes after his death. At three o’clock, unbeknown to me, neighbours and friends came marching down the road singing Happy Birthday with Champagne and birthday cake (all at safe social distancing requirements of course). More tears! I thought this special birthday day was going to be very ordinary, but it turned into an exciting, emotional day with lots of flowers, good wishes and cards – thank you to all. The Light Up the Dawn service was inspirational, and I hope it is a tradition that will now continue every Anzac Day.