The BULLETIN The Order of St John of Jerusalem Knights Hospitaller THE GRAND PRIORY OF AUSTRALASIA Under the Royal Charter of HM King Peter II of Yugoslavia

THE PRIORY OF QUEENSLAND AND COMMANDERIES: BRISBANE, The Malta issue: GOLD COAST, WA Pilgrimage page 3 SUNSHINE COAST AND Malta’s two major sieges page 5 WESTERN AUSTRALIA Brisbane commemoration page 7 THE PRIORY OF THE Victoria’s commemoration page 10 DARLING DOWNS Sunshine Coast service and luncheon page 14 THE PRIORY OF VICTORIA

NOVEMBER 2017

Vale Dr Dennis Hill KSJ 2

Pilgrimage to Malta 3

Two Great Sieges 5

Priory of Victoria news 6

Brisbane remembers Malta 7

Victoria commemorates Malta 10

Vale John Fisher KCSJ 11

Chain Reaction 12

Sunshine Coast and Malta 14

First Siege of Rhodes 15

Christmas functions 16

Priory of Victoria assembling outside St Paul’s Cathedral Story and full picture page 10 THE BULLETIN EDITORIAL COMMANDERY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA A PILGRIMAGE

CHEVALIER ANTHONY HOWES KCSJ CHEVALIER CHARLES CLARK KCSJ MMSJ With the following The Editor’s desk words, Chevalier Professor Charles WA Commandery When I was an under- generation. Has technological new members, and Application Savona-Grantura, graduate engineer, I used a slide advance left some of us behind? Forms for a start, will be lodged Grand Prior of the rule, a very simple mathematical This question was pondered in the Members’ Area for privacy Order of St Lazarus of Knights of the Malta tool, easy to understand, and easy recently by a small working party reasons. the Maltese Islands, to use. Today we have expanded of the OSJ in Australia as, at the Our question is: who will use Pauline Pilgrimage to computers and “phones” to be request of the Grand Priory of such facilities? Websites and welcomed the WA used by everyone; very complex Australasia, we began work on Pilgrims to Malta: tools, understood by very few developing interactive forms advantages brought to us by These words of welcome came at with a portfolio containing details people, found by many people to which can be placed on the new computerinteractive development. files are among the “It is certainly a pleasure to the opening dinner of the six days of the Pilgrimage, tourist items – website and used by all Members. Eventually, much of the OSJ welcome you to this happy of our Pilgrimage, and were echoed and a new book, “Saul of Tarsus offered often shunned by the older Such forms, Proposal Forms for communication will be through the gathering. The Crusader Orders in the welcome to Malta given by in the Island of Melite” written be difficult to use, the advantages website and emails. Transmission of the 12th and 13th Centuries Her Excellency, the Australian by Professor Charles Savona – Vale Chevalier Dr Dennis Hill KSJ of paper documents through comprised one big family High Commissioner, Ms Julienne mailing systems will decrease. providing facets of care to needy states: … compiled on the occasion Former Toowoomba antiques Carnival of Flowers. Ventura, which, in its foreword, The Membership Roll of Honour is pilgrims: the Templars providing from commitments elsewhere, of the Pauline Pilgrimage … for the dealer Dennis Hill, a member of Chevalier Stan Klan recalls that on the website, programes, notice especiallyHince, who to flew attend back the to opening.Valetta Knights and Dames belonging to the OSJ since 1997, passed away in Chevalier Dennis Hill, together of events in Commanderies and the Hospitallers of St John The ideas, the social and Western Australian Commandery of September after a short illness. with Dame Joy Sondergeld, were Priories are on the website, and providingsafe travel hospice and financial and medical security, theological thoughts engendered the Order of St John. He was 96. prime movers in bringing pianist The Bulletin is on the website. care, the Lazarites providing by our Pilgrimage experience are This book provided background A prominent member of the David Helfgott to the Empire These are all in the Members’ care for those with leprosy. still swirling around in the minds to all that we were to see through- then Darling Downs Commandery, Theatre on 20th March 1999, Area because much is private and All, however, fought tooth of the seven Knights, the one Dame, out the course of the Pilgrimage, Dennis was invested to the Order resulting in an OSJ donation sensitive to Members. and claw against what they and our companions – all fourteen together with guidance in the of St John in Brisbane. Darling of $27,000 to the Toowoomba But – and here is the point considered a threat to their of us – and will do so for some time importance of the Pauline sites to Downs Priory member Chevalier Hospice. of concern – only 34% of our religious values. to come. Thus, I can only describe be spoken of by Professor Charles Mervyn Bond, who was invested On their retirement from Members have signed up to be able While the centuries have here the outline of our time and the other world-renowned at the same ceremony, remembers Toowoomba, Dennis and Joan Hill to access this information. Where brought about divisions and together. Pauline and Malta scholar, Dennis as an active member, moved to Murwillumbah where are the 66%, approximately 180 On arrival at the Corinthia fundraising with his wife, Joan, they continued to be active in the of our Members? Has technology the various Orders that have Palace Hotel, we were presented Tal-Hgejjeg Chapel, St Pawl Milqii, for OSJ and other organisations community and with OSJ, Dennis Professor Horatio Vella, from the left them all behind, or is there survivedsometimes to conflicts modern times,between there by opening their Prince Henry transferring to the Gold Coast some other reason? Instructions is no doubt that all the branches Heights, Toowoomba, garden. Commandery. Earlier this year, for signing up have been sent to all of all the Orders in existence Their extensive garden was the Dennis entered a nursing home Members previously. today have common targets: venue for many garden parties where he died, after a short illness, This is the last Bulletin for that of philanthropy aimed at and a highlight of the annual in September. @ 2017. Thank you to the many who ameliorating the suffering of have contributed during the year. the sick and needy; and that It is your work that makes the of promoting Christian values, ‘The Bulletin’ is the official magazine of the Order of St John of Jerusalem publication what it is. Although it particularly of ‘loving one’s Knights Hospitaller, Grand Priory of Australasia: ACN 147 338 501 is somewhat premature, this is the neighbour’. CORRESPONDENCE PRINTED BY only opportunity I have to wish The unity that exists between Chevalier Charles Clark KCSJ MMSJ HEANEYS: PERFORMERS IN PRINT you all Season’s Greetings. the various Orders is highlighted email: [email protected] 07 5539 4911 www.hpip.com.au We begin formally to think in events such as today, where EDITORIAL GROUP of the coming of the Christ Child members of different Orders Chevaliers Charles Clark, Reverend during the Advent Season in from opposite ends of the world Dr David Pitman, the Reverend Canon December. Surrounded by a get together as confreres and Emeritus Bruce Maughan (Prelate), diversity of cultures and creeds, consouers – The Grand Priory of Robin Kleinschmidt, Garry Page, Philip the Christian celebration of St Lazarus is certainly honoured Andrews, Dames Dawn Goodall and Christmas is more important to us to collaborate and participate in Donna Fraser, and Serving Sister Leith than ever before, and I trust it will your activities.” Robinson. be a Happy and Holy one for you. @

2 THE BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017 3 COMMANDERY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA THE TWO GREAT SIEGES OF MALTA

And, when we attended the CHEVALIER VINCENT GATT KCSJ main Eucharist of the Sunday at St Paul’s Anglican Pro-Cathedral, the Cathedral’s Chancellor, the Reverend Canon Simon Godfrey, Malta: “The Unsinkable Aircraft Carrier” preached a special sermon in honour of our visit in which he The First Great Siege of Malta, 1565 spoke of our work as a direct link Lalla Mustafa Pasha, Commander to be celebrated at the forthcoming of the Ottoman Invasion Force safety; they found themselves being (at that time) Feast Day of Blessed Malta 1565, said as he wept after attackedfleet had frombeen movedthree sides. north The for Gerard of Tunc, Warden of the the fall of the Fort of St. Elmo: “If the Order’s cavalry had been stationed Hospital of St John in Jerusalem child cost us so many lives – what in the Fortress City of Mdina on and founder of the original Order price will we have to pay to take the the high ground. They swept down of the Knights. mother.” Canon Simon joined us for The “child” was Fort St. Elmo The reinforcements that just lunch in the Cathedral’s Under which fell on the 23rd June 1565, from the left flank. Croft Restaurant, which had been the day before the Feast Day of St. opened only days before by Prince John, the Patron Saint of our Order. landed were ordered by La Valette and many lost their lives trying to Charles, in Malta to commemorate All of its inhabitants were put to defendersto attack from in Fort the St. other Angelo flank and while withdraw and disengage from the the 75th Anniversary of the the sword. But it cost over 6,000 attackedLa Valette from himself the enemy’sled the remaining rear. defenders. granting of the George Cross to the Ottoman soldiers, over 2,000 of By the time the Turks had The 8th September was the day realised that the size of the the reinforcements arrived and the There is so much more one including the Second in Command, reinforcements were actually quite Turks broke engagements with the people of Malta by King George VI. thetheir great finest and in reveredone assault Admiral alone, small, the tide of battle had turned, OSJ and Maltese Defenders. Pilgrimage of the WA Commandery, Dragut Reis. suchmight things write asabout Commander this first Jamieever The “mother” was the Fort of St The Second Great Siege of Malta, WWII Edward’s moving speech at the Angelo where Grand Master Jean Investiture Dinner, the ‘touristy’ The might of Italy and then the consequently, when the German things we did, but time and space is the defence of the Island of Malta. German Luftwaffe combined did High Command in Italy planned not available. ParisotIn total, De Lait is Valette estimated was directingthat out of everything to crush these tiny Operation Hercules, the amphibious I cannot conclude these the initial Turkish invasion force of and airborne invasion of the islands, notes without recognising the 40,000 plus 8,000 re-enforcements, long years the British and Allied they estimated that their casualties outstanding work of Maree more than 28,000 never left Malta defendersislands and withstood could not. the For most five would be incredibly high, as all St Paul Grotto, to Wignacourt and at lunch with ‘The Gozo Story”, Leinster-Mackay and her husband alive. Of the 7,000 plus injured, concentrated bombing of WWII and of the islands’ population, having the Catacombs. where we had been welcomed to Donald – former Commander many were killed, when the starvation. heard of the atrocities in occupied In all this, the scholarship the island by Gozo Commandery of Ottoman invaders were retreating. More bombs were dropped countries, would rise against them. of our guides provided us with the OSL by Commander, Carmelo Commandery, now living on Gozo. The losses to the defenders on Malta than on the combined The Invasion was called off as knowledge, debunked some mis- Saliba . Mareeand Vice-Commander brought all the componentof the WA were 150 Knights, 2,500 Order of Allied countries in WWII. Adolf information – and gave us time Back on Malta, on another day, parts of our Pilgrimage together – Saint John soldiers and Maltese Hitler personally ordered that effectiveness of his airborne troops to meditate and think. Later in the Co-Cathedral of St John (with hotel, special meals, lecturers, tour Militia, and some 7,000 Maltese Malta be crushed and invaded; Hitler had littlecontinued confidence following in the page the Pilgrimage we were given so much of the History of the buses, and so much more. men, women, and children, a ‘Lecture Morning’ with the Knights in an impressive display) I had the privilege of working lectures, ‘How the Knights Changed and the Sacra Infermia were with her on the Pilgrimage, across prisoners to escape after letting Malta (1530-1798)’ by another visited, both leaving an indelible the seas in Perth – and have themdefenders. overhear La Valette a story allowed that more renowned scholar, Professor Henry mark on our experiences. tremendous admiration for her than 10, 000 re-enforcements had Frendo; and ‘Hospitaller Services Of course, our attendance at professionalism, her care for and landed and more were on their during the Crusader Period’ by the Investiture Mass, Investiture devotion to the individual Pilgrims, way. Reinforcements arrived at the Professor Charles. Ceremony, and Celebratory Dinner and to the Order of St John and the end of the Siege, but were only 600 One day, after rising early, we of the Order of St Lazarus, will Order of St Lazarus. Italian Infantry and 7 Knights. took the 20 minute ferry journey remain a highlight for us. We Asked to comment on the After months of desperate to Gozo, visiting the Citadella, were asked to robe and process as Pilgrimage to Malta, Chevalier Jamie and the pre-historic temple ruins special guests, and I was honoured Edwards KCSJ said: “The Pilgrimage winter closing in – the Turkish pre-dating any others in the world. in being asked to read the second was an experience which will invadersfighting – lost huge their casualties taste for with battle Professor Horatio entertained us lesson at the Mass. remain long in my memory.” @ and ordered a hasty retreat. Their

4 THE BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017 5 PRIORY OF VICTORIA NEWS BRISBANE AND GOLD COAST COMMANDERIES SIEGE OF MALTA COMMEMORATION

Dame Commander of Justice celebrates 90 years CHEVALIER EMERITUS BISHOP NOEL NOACK GCHSJ

Dame Patricia Holdenson she was there to continue to support Sermon Preached by Chevalier Emeritus OAM DCSJ will celebrate her the Order. She continued to serve on Siege of Malta Bishop Noel Noack GCHSJ, Chaplain, the Administrative Council with the 90th birthday on the Second Brisbane Commandery. of December. she still does today as Special Adviser Commemoration Sunday 10 Sept 2017: Uniting Church, Graceville She joined the Order on 24th June tounification the Prior. of Dame the Order Patricia in Australia,has also for and a number of years served as a Director of Gospel Lesson: John 17.1-8, 13-19 Order, based on the Order of Pat served on the Executive Council the OSJ Charitable Fund. Dame Patricia St Benedict and also deeply 1997 in Victoria. For many years Dame received her OAM for her work with Dear Friends charities in 1991. With thanks to God we remember Augustine. Commanderin Victoria. She of Justice.is the most senior We wish Dame Patricia Holdenson the the lifting of the Siege of Malta on influencedMembers by of the such Order Orders of St were rankingDame Dame Pat remained in Victoria loyal being to her a Dame happiest of birthdays and thank her for 7 September 1565. In May 1565, guided by their Christian faith, beliefs and with the formation of the her support, from the earliest times, of when the invading Ottoman forces steeped in the Word of God and, Grand Priory of Southern Australia @ appeared over the horizon, the in response to the love of Christ, fate of Malta appeared sealed. The committed themselves to a life of the Order of Saint John in Victoria. invaders vastly outnumbered the Christian discipline. continued from page 5 desperately needed fuel for their defending Hospitaller Knights. They lived in a community and could not count on the Italian Priory welcomes The vital importance of the framed by worship, prayer, and Fleet to keep the powerful British Nazi’s back. Gina Bailey SSSJ lifting of the Siege of Malta is service. By committing themselves Mediterranean Fleet engaged while Spitfire’sWhen theand Ohio could entered now hit the central to the story of the Order to poverty the Knights entrusted of the Lord and prayer. the invasion was taking place. the Grand Harbour, Admiral of St John and of the utmost themselves, not to material To illustrate this, I quote from Later on 8th September again, Cunningham ordered the bugler importance for the continuation of security, but the security that is a novel The Knights of Rhodes, on the Feast of Santa Maria, the few to sound “Stand To”: A naval salute Christian Europe. For a moment in found in Christ. written by the late Lutheran ships that survived in Operation extended only to naval ships of war. time history hung in the balance. Bishop of Gothenburg, Bo Giertz. In Memorable quotes: “I have We give thanks to God on this day worship have always been closely the novel he describes the Siege of Grand Harbour. an unsinkable aircraft carrier in for victory. associatedChapels withand fine the placesOrder andof are PedestalThe gift sailed that intosaved Valletta’s Malta was the middle of the Mediterranean It is not my intention today to prominent in all places where the describing how the Grand Master the tanker, Ohio, manned by Kiwis. and Messers Hitler and Mussolini Knights resided. preparesRhodes; the himself final stagefor the begins truce by “Three times they thought she cannot do anything about it”– Sir they were. But rather to consider We have much to learn from and negotiations with the Sultan would explode and every time they Winston Churchill, 1943, House of thediscuss spiritual military life oftactics, the Order fine asthat such a spirit. For in the face Suleiman. Commons, London. gave such a trust in the Lord and of humanly hopeless odds the Early in the morning, the Grand She sailed in lashed to a destroyer “Malta war der kleine Stein Knights drew strength, courage, Master, who slept even less than andreboarded a tug boat; her tothe put RAF out defenders the fires.” des Dritten Reiches ausgelöst auf.” PRIOR GRAHAM MICHALANNEY, life in defence of Christian Europe. and hope from their Lord. Each usual, called for brother Giovanni SERVING SISTER GINA BAILEY, (“Malta was the small stone the BAILIFF EMERITUS ANTHONY Thissuch isa willingnessof prime importance. to sacrifice one’s day began with hearing the Word (his chaplain). “It is the same thing Third Reich tripped on.”) – Field BAILEY Those who consider only the Marshal Kesselring, Commander, human vista are soon defeated. You German Force Mediterranean At the monthly Priory Admin add up the numbers – the result South, 1944. Council Meeting the Prior of appears obvious. The Order of Saint John again But those who consider the played a part with the re-opening Michalanney KCSJ inducted Gina Divine vista are never defeated. BaileyVictoria, SSSJ, HH as Chevalier a Serving Graham Sister in the The Knights gave themselves into Order. Many thanks to Dame Susan the arms of the Almighty, seeking asof thethey Sacra had doneInfima in orWWI, the Sacredcaring Michalanney DSJ for providing to serve Him, to live in obedience forInfirmary the injured as a Hospitaland wounded in Valletta, from afternoon tea and photos, to our to his will and to trust in him Gallipoli. Chamberlain Chevalier Cameron above all others. Dwight KCSJ, for his assistance and As God speaks in Deuteronomy awarded Malta and its defenders to Serving Sister Margaret Scott for The Lord Almighty is with us; the God theHis George Majesty Cross, King the George highest VI her delicious OSJ cakes. of Jacob is our fortress Psalm 46.7 decoration that can be awarded to Gina and Anthony Baily give Such is the spirit and foundation THE GEORGE CROSS a civilian, and never before or since their heartfelt appreciation to all of the Order of St John. It was CHEVALIER DAI MASON KSJ READS THE LESSON awarded to a nation. @ involved. @ founded as a Christian monastic

6 THE BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017 7 BRISBANE AND GOLD COAST COMMANDERIES SIEGE OF MALTA COMMEMORATION

continued from page 7 In a profound way we hear the again. I need a word in order to very words of Jesus, as he gathered work. Do you have anything for with his disciples, on their last night Brisbane and Gold Coast me?” together, before His arrest, trial,

Grand Master has to be ready for resurrection. combined commemoration that“I which have one. the SaviourBut first, gave Brother him last torture,Jesus andprays crucifixion to his heavenly – and his time.” Father, seeking strength, and in The Graceville Uniting Church was the • There were no rules of warfare The Grand Master looked total trust committing his life and venue for this years combined Relief of engagement as we know them today curiously at his chaplain. “To allow work into the hands of Father. It is the Siege of Malta Commemoration which • They were turbulent, brutal, violent and myself to be led to where I did not inspiring to overhear these private was conducted by our Commandery intolerant times want to go? I am ready for that. I am words of Jesus spoken in intimate Chaplain, Chevalier the Reverend Bishop • It is unreasonable to expect to impose willing.” relationship with his heavenly Emeritus Noel Noack, GCHSJ and who upon either of the warring combatants “For what, Brother Grand Master? Father. delivered a moving and most meaningful the principles we now know as the Geneva To die?” Jesus prayed for his disciples Convention. “Yes, also to die.” saying: “Father, the hour has come. us of the importance and relevance of the The Island of Malta, ‘a small desolate island’, “But to live?” Glorify your Son, that your Son may Siegesermon for reflecting our Order. upon and reminding was ceded to the Order on conditions which The Grand Master was quiet, and glorify you. For you granted him The Service was followed by Lunch continued page 16 the priest continued. “To continue authority over all people that he with associated fellowship at the – despite everything? To believe might give eternal life to all those Brisbane Golf Club which was well Top left: Two very active Serving Sisters, Leith without seeing? To go into the you have given him. Now this is attended and enjoyed by Knights, Dames, Robinson SSSJ and Sandra Griffiths SSSJ darkness with God – only God?” The eternal life: that they know you, and friends. Middle: Helen Barton, Dame Jill James DSJ, Grand Master looked up. “I believe I the only true God, and Jesus Christ, During the course of the Lunch Sian Mason, Susan Mason, Chevalier Dai Mason KSJ am willing. Even for that. God help whom you have sent. John 17.1-3 Chevalier Michael Halliday KCSJ delivered Bottom left: Chevalier Robin Kleinschmidt me.” Later he says: Sanctify them by OAM KCSJ and Dame Helen Gregory DCSJ “Then I have a word for the Brother the truth; your word is truth. the circumstances surrounding the Bottom centre: Chevalier Commander Ric Grand Master again today. It is John 17.17 impositionan address ofwhich the Siegebriefly but acknowledged more Barton welcomes OSJ members and guests to written by the Prophet Isaiah. This prayer of Jesus applies particularly addressed the topic, The the lunch Bottom right: Chevalier MAJGEN Stephen ‘Who among you fears the Lord, well to our circumstances. We live Knights and the Maltese People, an aspect Golding AM RFD KSJ, Christine Golding, Sue and obeys the voice of his servant? of the Siege which is rarely discussed and Barton, Chevalier Michael Halliday KCSJ, Let him who walks in darkness and Christianity appears overcome by a often overlooked when speaking of the Chevalier Canon Emeritus Bruce Maughan has no light trust in the name of the culturein a world and of belief danger in andsecularism. conflict. Siege and which included the following: OAM RFD GCSJ MMSJ. Lord and rely on his God.’” (Isaiah But our trust is in our Lord. Much has been written about the Siege STORY Chevalier Michael Halliday KCSJ 50.10) We seek to serve him and to and in examining the events surrounding IMAGES Chevalier Charles Clark KCSJ MMSJ The Grand Master repeated it live in obedience to Him. St Paul it one must keep in mind: thoughtfully, half to himself. “Walk encourages us with these words: in darkness . . . Not see light . . . and Finally, be strong in the Lord still trust. Was this His will for me?” and in his mighty power. Put on the “I believe so,” said Brother Giovanni. full armour of God, so that you can “And don’t forget what it says. take your stand against the devil’s Rely on God in the midst of schemes. darkness. Brother Grand Master For our struggle is not against needs it. There will be so many now who will need to rely on Brother rulers, against the authorities, Grand Master.”* againstflesh and the blood, powers but of against this dark the world, and against the spiritual Giertz gives us insight into the forces of evil in the heavenly ChristianWhile afaith piece and of fiction,practice Bishop of the realms. Ephesians 6.10-12 Order. For this reason I chose as May these words encourage you our Gospel reading: John, Chapter as you live in witness and service 17. This chapter shares with us the to Christ and struggle against those High Priestly prayer of Jesus. who oppose His Kingdom. @

* Page 205-206 the Kindle edition, The Knights of Rhodes – Bro Giertz (translated by Bro Erickson), Resource Publications, Eugene Oregon, 2010

8 THE BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017 9 PRIORY OF VICTORIA SIEGE OF MALTA

CHEVALIER VINCENT GATT KCSJ Siege of Malta Gala of a number of our members, Grace was said by our Priory some quite seriously, and even Pastor, Chevalier John Brownbill Charity Dinner on the night two more of our RFD KCSJ; our wonderful members could not attend owing Great Siege Commemorated DSJ was at her professional best, its Siege of Malta commemoration Melbourne. andIntendant our Chamberlain, Dame Valerie Chevalier Sumner serviceThe Priory at St of Paul’s Victoria Cathedral followed on to theAlso, Influenza an invitation Virus was sweeping extended Cameron Dwight KCSJ, did a at St Paul’s Cathedral 24th of September with a Gala to the new Consul General of the marvellous job organising the Charity Dinner on Thursday 5th Republic of Malta but, regrettably, Regalia for the room. of October at Melbourne’s elegant she was otherwise committed. Andrea Westh was inducted Quat Quatta House. However the evening was a great as a Serving Sister by HH Prior success due to the efforts of Dame Graham Michalanney KCSJ during were in attendance. Lois Whiteoak, our Almoner, and the evening. Unfortunately,Thirty-five members the Priory and guests Chevalier Lloyd Byrne KSJ aided by The Dinner raised $2345.00 has been plagued by illness Chevalier Enrico Bettoni KSJ. towards our charities. @

Continuing the line-up from the cover... The Priory assembled for the Commemoration Service

On 24th September the Priory due to the efforts of H E Bailiff could not attend; in fact he ended Anthony Bailey GCSJ CMSJ and up in hospital for a short time. Siege of Malta Commemoration Serving Sister Gina Bailey SSSJ, After the Service some members Dame Elizabeth Bettoni DSJ, Maureen Chevalier Terrence Hodge KSJ and Dame Chevalier Roger Westh KSJ, Andrea beginningof Victoria withobserved a Eucharistic the Great who are both closely connected Gatt SSSJ, Chevalier Vincent Gatt KCSJ Patricia Holdenson DCSJ Westh SSSJ, Chevalier Vincent Gatt KCSJ, Maureen Gatt SSSJ. Celebration at St. Paul’s Anglican with the Cathedral. for a Buffet Lunch in their Bistro. A Cathedral Melbourne. Incidentally, Gina was inducted greatmade timetheir wasway had to the by RACVall and Club this was an appropriate lead-up to our VALE CHEVALIER DR JOHN FISHER KCSJ Knights and Dames of the Priory of Serving Sister only a few weeks Siege of Malta Gala Charity Dinner Twenty-five Serving Sisters, earlier.into the Unfortunately, Priory of Victoria Bailiff as a on 5th October at Quat Quatta On Friday 27th October, at Star of the Sea from that Foundation in 2003, and a keen has now become an annual event Anthony was quite unwell and House. @ Catholic Church, Cleveland, our Grand advocate for their work. This resulted in Victoria were in attendance. This Brisbane Commandery fund-raising for the Feros GCSJ CMSJ, and 20 Knights and Foundation over a six year period. DamesPrior, HE of Bailiffthe Order Adjunct of St. ProfessorJohn, attended Victor In robes and regalia we formed a guard a funeral, which took the form of a simple of honour for the casket as it was carried prayer service, celebrating the life of from the church to the hearse. The local Chevalier Dr John Fisher KCSJ. parish Knights of the Southern Cross formed When Brisbane Commandery, some a guard of honour for the hearse as it left the years ago, considered which charities church. they might support, John Fisher quietly Our brother Chevalier John was a valued suggested Prince Charles Hospital member of the Order. Our sympathy goes to his wife Mynetta and family. He will be missed. May he rest in peace and rise in FoundationWhen asked BiVACOR why, he research told us forthat he glory. @ wasimplantable a recipient artificial of a transplanted heart. heart BY SERVING SISTER LEITH ROBINSON SSSJ

10 THE BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017 11 BRISBANE COMMANDERY CHAIN REACTION

CHEVALIER DAMIEN ATKINSON KSJ

CHEVALIER DAMIEN ATKINSON “WE DIDN’T FOLLOW THE HIGHWAY” AND RIDING MATE CORONIS

contest, along roads that appeared contribute. There is a constant for the two groups to get busy to have been shelled with heavy banter in the peloton but also an together. artillery, and into sparkling awful lot of support for fundraising The photographs tell part beachside towns like Crescent through the entire campaign. of the story. Each night on the Head and Forster, where nothing If you are thinking that this road, there was a dinner where much seemed to have changed experience could not possibly be particular riders were awarded since the 1950s. for you, I would make two points. jerseys, loosely based on the Tour THE OSJ TINGE: CHEVALIER DAMIEN ATKINSON IN THE We followed rivers like the De France regime. Johnnie Barton, MIDDLE, JOHN BARTON (SON OF THE QUEENSLAND PRIORY Macleay and the Nambucca, and in age from 24 to 71. The fellow for instance, is wearing the Yellow VICE-CHANCELLOR) IN YELLOW JERSEY rode through dairy farms before atThe the first top is of that the therange riders might ranged have Jersey because he was the leading descending into major centres like needed a little push from time to fundraiser at the time. The author Coffs Harbour. For the author, the time as we climbed, but that only is in Polka Dot for more complex John Barton Jnr and single most bizarre experience brought the group closer together. reasons … Chevalier Damien Atkinson was riding through Nimbin, where The second point is that it seems If any of our members are Chain Reaction ride for seven days to the peloton of lycra-clad corporate to me that Chain Reaction and OSJ interested, we would be very riders made their way past the share lots of values in common and happy to share our experiences Cycling is meditation for raise money for Australian hippy population that pulled I hope there will be opportunities further. @ less-developed souls. The In April this year, a peloton of children in need up only just short of yelling out and the Victor Chang Institute. action is so repetitive and 49 men and women rode from “Why?” Sydney Harbour to the Story target so that Chain Reaction also The most spectacular day was the journey so precarious, Bridge, raising money for the spent conquering the mountain that you need to empty AEIOU Foundation (which assists community legal centre which I near Dorrigo. We rode 187 your mind and dispel any families affected by autism) and chair,made athe significant Youth Advocacy donation Centre. to the kilometres and climbed 3,000 ruminations. Ronald McDonald House (which The week itself was magic. metres in eight hours, through a Chain Reaction is an supports regional families with We didn’t follow the highway, beautiful town called Bellingen, up organisation which – through a accommodation when their but weaved between the country to the National Park laid out on the very particular model – raises children are admitted to tertiary and the coast, along a scenic but Tablelands, and then climbed and money for Australian children hospitals). The peloton was divided often mountainous route. We rode descended along the spectacular in need. It asks people in the into seven teams, each taking the through places we had never heard Waterfalls Way until we hit the corporate sector to ride long name of their major sponsor, and of – with names like Mangrove, coastline. distances, and to reach out to the Hutchinson Builders team had Dungog, Bulahdelah, Clybucca, and I think the single most fantastic businesses, family, and friends a distinct OSJ tinge to it, including Algomera. thing about the Chain Reaction for sponsorship. By that model, John Barton Jnr and myself. We passed by a lake where experience is that it tends to and since 2007, it has raised $22 We rode for seven days and pelicans come to nest, through attract generous and positive Million for groups like the Starlight a village where locals run an spirits, who have done well in their THE PELOTON BEING ESCORTED ACROSS A RIVER Foundation, Hummingbird House, “international” brick-throwing raised $1.1M for the beneficiaries. That figure actually exceeded our respective fields and are keen to 12 THE BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017 13 SUNSHINE COAST REMEMMBERING MALTA FROM THE EUROPEAN FIRST SIEGE OF RHODES

A Dickens ROBIN KLEINSCHMIDT OAM KSJ The first Siege of Rhodes – 1480 Sunshine Coast Commandery of a Christmas After leaving Cyprus, the Order of of the Knights, and after a savage St. John conquered the Island of HE Bailiff Emeritus René Returns! remembers the Siege of Malta Rhodes in 1309, and henceforth Tonna- Barthet GCSJ. GCMSJ, Turks where repelled. titled themselves “Knights of CMSJ and Bar, MMSJ, fightHowever, that lasted soon some after, hours, the the The commemoration of the lifting Stella Maris Catholic Church at Rhodes”. The Grand Master at that Grand Conservator (Retired) enemy attacked again, this time The WA Commandery is, once of the Siege of Malta is one of the Maroochydore to mark the lifting time was the 24th Grand Master Sovereign Order of St John concentrating on that part of the again, looking forward to one of high points in the calendar of the of the Siege of Malta. From The European 2011. bastions around the City which its principal fund-raisers: Order, and is celebrated in the The Commandery was made 1319) who, after the conquest of The Grand Priory of Europe was defended by the Langue of “A Dickens of a Christmas”. Commanderies in a variety of ways. most welcome by the Parish Priest, thisFoulques Island, de started Villaret, building (1306- the Newsletter, Issue No. 8, December Italy, which was still quite weak. There will be two On Sunday 10th September Fr Joe Duffy, and members of 2011, reprinted by kind When the citizens realised that performances on Sunday 2017, Knights and Dames of the the congregation. Following the which can still be seen to this day. permission of the author. they were in peril, they all went to December 17th (2 pm and 7 Sunshine Coast Commandery service, spouses joined members fortificationsOnce the Order of Rhodes, established some of help the Knights, and again, after a pm) in Christ Church Parish paraded in full robes and regalia for a relaxed and enjoyable itself on Rhodes, the Grand Master in 1480. Grand Master Pierre Church in Claremont. As last at the 9.00am Parish Mass at luncheon at Harry’s on Buderim. @ year, these performances are in proceeded to strengthen its d’Aubusson (1476-1503), as soon On the morning of 27th July, the conjunction with Christ Church, navy which became quite strong, as he realised that an attack on fierce battle, the day was won. Claremont. Currently, playwright especially in the Eastern side of the the island was imminent, asked attack, with some 2000 Janissaries. Jenny Davis and Yours Truly Mediterranean, and very soon after, for help from European countries, TheyTurks managed once again to launchedbreak through a fierce as director, are working on the and eventually some 600 knights the bastions of the Italian Langue, new script which will, as always the shipping of the Turkish Empire. and 1500 men-at-arms arrived on which they attacked again, and have Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ Thisthe Order’s state of fleet affairs started lasted attacking well into the Island from France, under the a savage battle ensued, during as its pivot, but will include a the 15th Century. command of his brother, Antoine. which the Grand Master received great variety of other Christmas These continual attacks and On 9th of June 1480, the Turks several wounds. However, although writings and stories. counter attacks, as may well be landed a force on the shores of the severely wounded, d’Aubisson, Professional actors and imagined, were a constant irritant Island, and started bombarding with sword in hand, continued to actresses will take part as and infuriated the Turks, who the island’s defences. The Grand direct the knights in their battle always, together with leading retaliated in kind. After many Master, realising that there was for survival, and soon the leader Perth musicians, among whom unsuccessful attacks however, the a danger of a defeat, went to the of the Turkish Forces realised that will be the Marilyn Phillips STELLA MARIS CATHOLIC CHURCH, MAROOCHYDORE Turks decided to end this state of scene of battle himself, which they were out-fought, and began to Chorale, led, of course by Marilyn affairs and lay siege to the Island presence heightened the morale retreat. herself, whose extensive music The knights now realised that direction engagements across Vale – David Bell OAM DCSJ, which was held in the Turks where demoralised, and Australia have not dampened Saint Mark’s Anglican Church, continued to attack them from her enthusiasm for our “Dickens” Many of the spouses of the Buderim. season. Knights and Dames of the Order Over 300 friends of David as far as their main base, and “A Dickens of a Christmas” participate intensively in the and Airlie packed Saint Mark’s various positions, finally reaching provides you with wonderful activities and work of the Order, Church for the funeral, which Saracens. They also captured as Christmas entertainment for not only by their support for their was conducted by the locum muchmanaging materiel to capture and booty the flagas that of the all ages, together with the spouses, but in many cases by knowledge that all proceeds their generous support for local Christopher Whittall OAM KSJ. On August 17th, 1480, the are going to assist the homeless projects and activities. One such Overpriest, the Chevalier years, David the Venerable was a leadersthey could of the find. Turkish invading of Perth and Fremantle. Ticket was the late David Bell. very generous supporter of the forces, realising that their men prices remain low, so as to Led by the Grand Prior, HE Commandery and its charitable had been beaten once again, called allow as wide a cross section works, especially for Hear and Say. a hasty retreat, upped anchor, of audience as possible – $25 Feros GCSJ CMSJ, a goodly He was a very dear and and sailed away. Thus bringing adults and $20 concessions. For numberBailiff Adjunct of Knights Professor and Dames Victor of personal friend to many members to an end a bloody siege, which booking information, contact the the Sunshine Coast Commandery of the Commandery and he will be saw some 3000 Turks and some attended the funeral service for sorely missed. 500 Knights, not to mention a lot 9384 9244. Bookings are with David, husband of the Deputy Rest in peace, David, in God’s of the citizens of Rhodes, killed. trybooking.comChrist Church parish @ office on Commander, Dame Airlie Bell nearer presence. @ To be continued in the February 2018 Bulletin @

14 THE BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017 15 BRISBANE AND GOLD COAST COMMANDERIES

CHEVALIER MICHAEL HALLIDAY KCSJ Brisbane and Gold Coast Commanderies Siege of Malta Commemoration continued OSJ Christmas Functions

continued from page 9 relationship to be changed – persons from all walks of life. Priory of the Darling Downs Brisbane and Gold Coast Sunshine Coast Commandery included that the Order would • He ordered that the local We meet today as an Order Thursday, 23rd November Commanderies Monday, 18th December defend it against aggressors. population be treated with to Celebrate and Remember (the – meeting at Downs Club 5-7 pm at the home of Thursday 7th December, Technically, the Knights respect and civility with no lifting of the Siege). at 5.30pm followed by Dame Jane McIntyre, Buderim. 12.30 pm, Christmas lunch in the were vassals but in reality they verbal and physical abuse • We remember and recognise Christmas dinner at 6.30 pm. assumed sovereignty over Malta • Wherever possible, locals the bravery, courage, and Queensland Club. Christmas gifts out of order: Priory of Victoria and thus created an independent should be employed in all trades The lunch follows the Queensland In lieu of Christmas gifts, Sunday 10th December state with the consequence that and at all levels. suffering of the Knights, Priory Administration Priory of the Darling Downs 12 noon for 12.30 pm at Ascot the political and administrative Perhaps one of the most surprising Soldierspersonal and sacrifice citizens and of Malta Committee meeting at 10 am, guests have been invited to House. Please see invitation on systems which the Maltese had aspects of the whole Siege is the – men, women and children also in the Queensland Club. donate to the Order’s chosen page 15 of The Bulletin, also on long established were abolished, overt willingness with which the – who were involved in, and Please see invitation on page overridden, or ignored. native Maltese community – men, subject to, the protracted charity, Rosie’s Friends on the Street, this year. 15 of The Bulletin, also on the women, and even children – joined siege engagements while Commanderythe website with of RSVPWestern form. arrived in 1530, the local with the Knights in their defence attempting to repel the Chevalier Ross Douglas Maltese,When especially the Knights the first Maltese of the Island and fought against the invaders. and Mrs Anne Douglas are website with RSVP form. Australia co-ordinating the event Nobility, were apprehensive Ottomans as, for example, by blood • We acknowledge the need Sunday 17th December with a themed dinner and about their presence and and language they were more for courage, principle, and 2 pm and 7 pm, “Dickens of a entertainment following the regarded them as arrogant aligned to the invaders than they discipline and steadfastness Christmas”. See details page 14 November 23 meeting at the foreigners and intruders, and were to the Knights who had their by an entire population in the of The Bulletin. they did not particularly enjoy roots in European nobility. face of threat Downs Club. the Rule of the Knights which Maybe the explanation lies • We recognise the destruc- Prior Bob Kretchmann will Early December, Sundowner at included the imposition of in the immense suffering and tiveness of religious bigotry host pre-dinner drinks and the home of theCommander. deprivations the Maltese had and hate whatever its forms. savouries. Saturday 23rd December and generally excluding the suffered over many generations • We are acutely conscious Commandery participation MalteseFrench as from the servingofficial languagein the from various foreign raiders and that what happened in Malta in St George’s Cathedral Carol Order and from holding Civil and they perhaps saw that only by a more than 450 years ago Service. Administrative positions. successful defence of the Island offers a salutary lesson in The general relations could it be freed from the constant today’s world where religious between the Knights and the menace of the Ottomans. extremism in all its forms still locals were strained to say the Further, the Maltese people, a exist; and in particular, the least and the Knights regarded fervent religious Catholic society, ever-increasing prevalence of the locals as inferior and were greatly impressed by, and forces within our community treated them with an amount respected, Grand Master de La bent upon the lessening or of contempt. However, the two removal of the relevance of groups managed to generally co- Christianity and its traditional exist peacefully since the locals wouldValette be for at his his strong side in Christian his dealing values from our community recognised and acknowledged withFaith theand Ottoman his firm beliefTurks. that God and way of life. that the presence of the Knights They admired his great Let us not forget our Christian boosted the economy, were personal attributes, qualities, beliefs and our Oaths as members charitable, and protected against and abilities of uncompromising of our Order. @ Ottoman attacks. leadership which was always from the front, determination, Chevalier Michael Halliday KCSJ became Grand Master in 1557, he strategic planning and acumen, Deputy Commander causedAfter this Jean general de La Valetteattitude and and communication skills with Brisbane Commandery Wishing you a happy and holy Christmas

16 THE BULLETIN