SERVICEMEN'S ASSOCIATION

NATIONAL NASHONASHO 51 72 NAVY • ARMY • AIRFORCE NEWSNEWS NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATION OF AUST (QLD) INC.

Issue No 133 August 2018 Feature Stories: President and Treasurer Reports Page 1 The Colours Page 3 WWII Volunteer Defence Corps Page 4

Directory Front Cover State Management Padre Glenn Murphy blesses the new Colours for 1 RAR. Committee From Tuesday 15th May to Friday 19th May, Patron: 2018, 1 RAR in conjunction with the 1 RAR Councillor Angela Owen Association, with the support of the Department President: of Veteran Affairs, the Australian Army and Alex Garlin 07 3847 9690 Townsville City Council, celebrated the 50th 0417 621 411 Anniversary of the Battle of Fire Support Base Vice-President: Warren Cockburn OAM 07 4162 17 93 Coral 0418 192 821 The Battalion’s success at Coral, as part of a Secretary: broader combined-arms and coalition team, is Len Matthews 07 3205 8674 emblazoned as a Battle Honour on its Regimental Colour. Coral 50 “2018” represented a significant Asst Secretary: Ingrid Lundgren 07 3324 1277 gathering of current serving and Veteran members. Accordingly, the Battalion was Treasurer: presented with new Colours during Coral Neal Freier 07 3348 2080 Parade 0427 000 408 Photos courtesy Department of Defence Gallery Wacol Manager: Colin Waite 07 3808 9256 How Members Can Benefit! Please read Redland Branch News to see what Wacol Advisor: Branches can do for their members Barry Loose 07 3408 6103

Administration Manager: Tony Stevenson 07 3397 7512 Official NSAA

Welfare Officer: Merchandise Vacant OFFICIAL NSAA MERCHANDISE Beret $32 Chaplain: Beret Badge – Pewter $5.50 Thomas (Tom) Andrews OAM 07 3396 8033 Beret Badge – Silver Six Sided Logo $20 04 0845 7931 Book – 20 Year History of the NSAA 1987 to 2007 $25 Caps Embroidered with Nasho Logo $17.50 Minute Secretary: Coffee Cup with Nasho Logo $ 9.00 Graham Tunstall 0412 886 042 Flag – Association Logo White Full Size (6'x3') $220 Flag – Association Logo White small size (hand waver) $12.50 Lapel Badge – Association Blue $5.50 Editor Nasho News: Lapel Badge – Navy, Army or Air Force $6.50 Lapel Badge – Tri-service $6.50 Vince Crowley 07 4779 9460 Medals Full Size Unmounted Swing Court 0428 193 076 ADM $18 $22.50 $27.50 ANSM $18 $22.50 $27.50 Editor Branch News Duo ADM+ANSM $36 $45 $55 John Hardy OAM 07 4095 4154 Miniatures Unmounted Swing Court 0408 939 910 ADM $12 $16.50 $21 ANSM $12 $16.50 $21 Membership Officer: Duo $24 $40 $45 Stephen Sheridan 07 3324 1277 Medal Ribbon Bar with ADM+ANSM medal ribbons $15 Miniature Metal Ribbon Bar ADM+ANSM $10 State Office Necktie with Nasho Logo $33.50 Eric Sivell Park, 171 Boundary Road, Camp Hill, Nasho Pocket Patch – Bullion Thread – Red $36 Brisbane 4152 Nasho Pocket Patch – Queensland Red Logo $10 Nasho Port $13.50 Office Hours: 9.00am to 1.00pm Nasho Key Rings Acrylic $4.50 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Nasho Wattle Key Rings $10 Number plate covers ‘I Am a Nasho’ $22 Phone (07) 3324 1277 Shirts – Chambray short or long sleeves S M L XL XXL Email: [email protected] (add $3 for XXXL size) $36 Mail to: National Servicemen's Association Shirts – Polo White or Maroon S M L XL XXL (add $3 for XXXL size) $31 P.O. Box 7014 Holland Park East Qld 4121 Stubby Holder with Nasho Logo $5.50 Web: www.nashoqld.org.au Video – 50 year anniversary celebrations $5 Nominal Roll/Webmaster Video – Last March Out at Wacol $5 Wall Plaque – 6 sided Nasho Logo on Timber $42.50 Alex Garlin 07 3847 9690 [email protected] Pay by Credit Card – add $1.00 National Website: www.nashoaustralia.org.au Postage not included

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER The material contained in this publication is in the nature of general comment only, and neither purports, nor is intended, to be advice on any particular matter. Readers should not act or rely upon any matter or information contained or implied by this publication, without taking appropriate professional advice which relates specifically to their particular circumstances. The publishers and authors expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person whether an Association member or not, who acts or fails to act as a consequence of reliance upon the whole or part of the publication. Views expressed in any Editorial may not necessarily be those views held by the Management Committee. PRESIDENT’S REPORT (Alex Garlin) I would like to give an update on the problems with the Nasho QLD website and Nominal Roll. IX webhosting has transferred our sites to Verio. With the merging of the sites to Verio they changed all the FTP codes and with that we could not open or change anything on the sites. At this time we have an IT person in the process of changing all of the codes to Wordpress. When that is done we will then be able to change things on the website and the Nominal roll will be up and running. To view the nominal roll please try this link: nashonomroll.org. The Qld website is being modernised and updated but the URL will be the same. We are busy planning for Nasho Remembrance Day on the 14th of February 2019. We are hoping to have the Governor of Queensland attending and to unveil the plaque of names of the National Servicemen that died whilst training in the 1951 to 1959 scheme at Wacol or were completing their further period of obligation. We would like to thank all the branches that we contacted over the past few months that supplied us with names and service numbers of the deceased. The Beaudesert Conference is on the 11th, 12th, 13th & 14th of October. Please make sure you have sent in your registration forms. I look forward to seeing everyone at the Beaudesert Conference. The SMC has co-opted four Branch representatives to be members of a Committee under chairmanship of Tony Stevenson to consider all matters effecting protecting our Association assets and matters relevant to a smooth transition if we can no longer form Executives.

TREASURER’S REPORT (Neal Freier) Hello fellow Nashos and members. I am pleased to report that our current financial situation is satisfactory. I have had to transfer some money from our term investment account into our general account to enable us able to function. I have explained to the SMC members that this will keep on occurring because of rising costs and our income is gradually reducing . An example of rising costs is we recently had a visit at our Headquarters (The Bunker) from an officer from the Brisbane City Council. He did an inspection and gave us a list that was frightening, of things that had to be done (because we lease from the Council). Some of the items we had to attend to were:- White-ant and vermin inspection – a complete detailed electrical inspection – fire alarm inspection – appropriate signs placed over all doors – clean the gutters on the roof – and the list went on. Tony Stevenson (Mr. Nasho) was far from impressed and nor was I when I found out the cost of all this. This is to be an annual event. The leasing of Wacol from the council is almost complete and because of the number of buildings there, I was dreading similar inspections and higher costs. So we turned to our patron, Councillor Angela Owen, who was not pleased at the cost we incurred and all I can tell you is we won’t be having major issues with costs anymore! – Wonder Woman to the rescue again ! - Angela, how do we thank you? We have quite a bit more spending to do at Wacol still, but we have applied and are still applying for grants to fund these projects. I am reasonably confident these grant applications will be successful. In my last report I urged every branch to step up welfare assistance to their members who are in need. I was contacted by several branches for advice regarding this matter. Remember time is running out and we are ageing so please look after your mates where ever possible. NOTICE TO ALL BRANCH TREASURERS. When you complete your financial report to your branch would you please announce that your branch is solvent and able to meet all current costs? (Unless you are unfinancial and insolvent) – This is a sensible requirement of the RSL. That’s all for this edition. I look forward to meeting many of you at our bi-annual General Meeting at Beaudesert in October. I hope everyone is in good health and happy.

PAGE 1 ANZAC DAY IN FRANCE Len Ramsay, one of the stalwart volunteers in the Bunker, took time off to visit, with his wife, some battle fields in France. He timed it right to be at Villers-Bretonneux on ANZAC Day. The Unknown Soldier headstone reads “The remains of an unknown Australian soldier lay in this grave for 75 years. On 2nd November 1993 they were exhumed and now rest in the tomb of the unknown soldier in the Australian War Museum in Canberra”

Floral Tributes at Memorial Villers-Bretonneux Memorial Empty Grave

WACOL DECEASED NASHO PLAQUE The Memorial for National Servicemen who did their initial Army basic training at Sanananda Barracks, Wacol between 1951 and 1959 and who died while completing their service obligations will be dedicated at Wacol on National Service Day, 2019. The adjacent item is how the plaque will be laid out and the information it will contain. Whilst every care has been taken in obtaining information and preparing the details for the plaque we ask that if you notice and incorrect information that you advise John Hardy as soon as possible. John’s contact details are, phone (07) 4095 4154 and email is john.hardy51@ bigpond.com This project would not have been achieved without the dedicated research by John Hardy (Tableland), Kyle MacLeod (Townsville); Col and Joyce Waite (Beenleigh Logan); Alec and Lois Garlin – all started by a suggestion from Francis (Frank) Asange (deceased) to remember Pte Corkill.

PAGE 2 The Colours The term ‘Colours’ broadly encompasses the four distinctive forms of Honourable insignia that are the symbol of the spirit of a Regiment, for on them are borne the battle honours and badges granted to the unit in commemoration of gallant deeds performed by members of the unit from the time their unit was raised. Originally the Colour was the rally point, where during the noise and confusion of battle, it was the focal point of the Regiment, even if the commander was killed, hope was always present whilst the Colours remained intact. On the verge of ultimate defeat the troops would concentrate around the Colours, which would become the scene of its last defence. From such times, records of epic gallantry and acts of heroic self-sacrifice have been associated with the Colours whose preservation inspired these acts. Although the Colours are no longer carried in battle, they constitute the symbol of the Regiments’ honour and represent its devotion to duty. As such they are held in the greatest esteem by the soldiers and officers. They are brought out on important parades and regimental occasions and are escorted by a ‘Colour Party’. Infantry Colours are made of silk with Royal Blue being reserved for units who have been granted the title ‘Royal’. A dark green is used by non-royal Regiments. Infantry Regiments of the Australian Army have two Colours: the Queen’s Colour; and a Regimental Colour which has the unit’s battle honours emblazoned on it. Thus a ‘stand’ or pair of Colours for a Regiment normally comprises: A Queen’s Colour: usually with the design of the Australian Flag, on which the union has a gold circle in the centre, within which the Regiment’s name (and sometimes initials or number) are emblazoned. A Regimental Colour: usually a plain flag of Royal Blue for units who have been granted the title Royal. New Colours are occasionally presented to a Regiment by The Queen or her representative,often to mark a special anniversary or event in the Regiment’s history. The special ceremony at which the new colours are presented usually involves parade and an inspection by a member of the Royal Family or representative Following the consecration and presentation of new Colours, the flags being replaced are not destroyed but are laid up in a regimental museum, church, or other military building in order to maintain an atmosphere of veneration. Colours are not disposed of or destroyed when their appearance has deteriorated beyond recognition. They are supposed to be left to turn to dust; as do the bodies of the fallen soldiers who served them. Photos: Top. Governor General presents new Colours. Bottom: Old Colours are marched off.

PAGE 3 WWII Volunteer Defence Corps recognised at Rocky Creek VP Day 2018 ceremony The often overlooked WWII service of the 100,000 men of the Volunteer Defence Corps was one of the features for the 73rd anniversary of Victory in the Pacific commemorations at the Rocky Creek War Memorial Park held on Sunday August 12, 2018. As an initiative of the National Servicemen’s Association – Tableland Branch, a memorial bronze plaque was cast at Carole Park for unveiling on the day. Branch President John Hardy said “the Department of Veteran’s Affairs had no hesitation in providing a “Saluting Their Service” Commemorative Grant for the manufacture and installation of the plaque. The last unit plaque was unveiled in 2013 so it bought a renewed focus for the ceremony this year”. He went on to say “we are honoured to have our Branch Patron Ray Byrnes and Valarie Fry (nee O’Rourke) participate in the unveiling. Branch member Bill Mc Donald initiated the idea to have this plaque erected. All of their fathers were active members of the VDC at Danbulla and Kairi.” The Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC) was formed in July 1940 by the Returned Sailors Soldiers and Airmen’s Imperial League of Australia (RSSAILA now RSL) to carry out home defence duties using World War I veterans. It reached its maximum strength in June 1942 when enlistments in Queensland alone totalled over 17,000 men. The VDC covered coast-watching duties in the Torres Strait and along the eastern coast and Gulf of Carpentaria. Initially the role of the VDC units on callout was limited to the active and passive defence of their home areas when they would be formed into platoons to maintain roadblocks, demolish bridges and other facilities and then to implement guerrilla warfare if their area was overrun. They were also to gather and pass on intelligence and provide guides for any field force units. In North Queensland, the HQ D Group VDC was located in the AMP Building in Townsville. Other Battalions (Bn) were 15 Bn Mackay, 16 Bn Townsville, 21 Bn Charters Towers, 22 Bn The VDC plaque erected for VP73 by National Servicemen’s Association Bowen, 23 Regt VDC Charters – Tableland Branch unveiled by Branch Patron Ray Byrnes (right) and Towers, 17 Bn Cairns and 18 Valarie Fry while Branch Secretary Terry Edmondson looks on. Bn Innisfail. The latter two units feature on the plaque as many of the towns across the coastal and Tableland areas had members stationed there. Some even died on duty one being WO2 Robert James Clarke, 53 of 18 Battalion VDC who died of heart failure at Millaa Millaa on June 19, 1944 and was subsequently buried at the Atherton War Cemetery. The VDC even featured mounted units with No. 10 Platoon Upper Barron whose C Company HQ was located at Herberton. Members of inland VDC units were freed from having to attend regular training in May 1944 and the VDC was officially disbanded on 24 August 1945, although some members continued to serve until later that year. Many family and friends of those that served in the VDC were present for the “Meet and Greet” hosted by the Tableland Nashos on the day. There were static displays containing information relating to the VDC at both the Rocky Creek Nasho shelter and across the road at the WWII entertainment igloo that followed the ceremony where tours, displays, entertainment and lunch was served.

PAGE 4 MY AGED CARE There comes a time in our lives when we have to admit that we are not as strong and as resilient as we used to be. It is no shame to ask for help. The Australian Government program ‘myagedcare’ provides the means to remain independent in our own homes. ‘myagedcare’ is the start point to access Australian Government funded services. You may be eligible to receive services such as: Help at Home • Personal care like help getting dressed • Transport • Modifications to your home such as hand rails and ramps • Nursing, physiotherapy and other care • Meals and help with cooking • Equipment like walking frames • Social activities Short Term Help • When you have had a setback and want to get your independence back • Recovery from an accident or illness, including after a hospital stay • When you or your carer needs a break (respite care) Care in an Aged Persons Home If you find you need help with day-to-day tasks or health care, an aged care home lets you live in a supported environment where help is available 24 hours a day. Who is eligible You may be eligible for Australian Government funded aged care services if you are an older person (usually 65) finding it harder to do things you are used to. You need to have a face-to- face assessment of your needs care to find out if you are eligible. Everyone who has an assessment through My Aged Care and is found to need services, is eligible to access services that: • may be partially or fully funded by the Australian Government, and • are regulated by the Australian Government If you are not assessed as eligible, or are waiting for services you can access privately funded services at any time. Get and Idea about Costs The Australian Government contributes to the cost of aged care services. You’re expected to contribute if you can afford to. Costs vary for different types of care and different service providers. There are no standard costs for aged care services. How much you pay depends on: • your financial position • the number and type of services you receive • the service providers fee If you are ready to access services, call My Aged Care to find out which you may be assessed for. If you are going to be assessed for a Home Care Package , or care in an aged care home, it’s important that to get a financial assessment from the Department of Human Resources as soon as possible. This will help to work out costs with service providers when you are ready to find out and set up your services. For additional information go to myagedcare.gov.au. Make sure that you discuss these arrangements with your family

PAGE 5 GUNS ---- THE BAD AND THE GOOD John Mitchell Wacol 1.51

A quiet innocence hung over its past at Port Arthur’s (Tasmania) Historical Convict Park as tourists slowly walked around drinking in what really happened, totally unaware of what was about to happen--- Martin Bryant casually alighted from his old Volvo, selected an automatic rifle with its 30 shot magazine from his weapon haul in the car, took aim and pressed the trigger. 12 people were killed in15 seconds and 35 killed in total with 23 injured. The date was 28th April 1996 – our nation’s worst murder. Bryant received 35 Life sentences and deserved everyone of them. By contrast, a young 24 year old Evelyn Owen, working on an idea in July 1939 came up with a gun that would become a very popular close combat weapon, especially in the jungles of New Guinea area in World War 11. This military minded Wollongong (NSW) man submitted the weapon to the Army Invention Board, Victoria Barracks, Melbourne, but was told it was of no interest. Their choice was the American Tommy Gun and the British Sten Gun. WW11 broke out and ‘Evo” joined the Army. His gun, through a friend was shown to Steel Maker, Lysaght, Port Kembla. It was later pointed out that the Owen could be produced for around Ten Pounds ($20) while the two imported guns cost the Army about Sixty Pounds ($120). Owen was given leave to confer with Lysaghts and over a short period tests and modifications were made. Things started to happen quite quickly, in 1941 Evelyn was told he was no longer need for army service and he must attend a meeting at the war office. Later in June of ‘41 he was discharged from the AIF and went to work in the Lysaght’s factory Lysaght’s was given a contract to produce 100 Owen Guns and on the 30th of September 1941 Evelyn’s Owen Gun went was tested at Long Bay Rifle Range against the best sub-machine guns of the day. Competing against a Thompson, Sten and even a German Bergmann the Owen Gun was found to be more accurate but the real test was to come. All the weapons were placed into water, sand and mud, the Owen Gun was the only one to keep firing while the others all stopped. The audience were left spellbound, now Evelyn Owen would finally get the recognition for his invention. Lysaghts went into production, at first 2,000 per month and then increased to 2,400. By April 1943, 22,000 were in the army hands. The Owen Gun, the only Gun at that time that was invented and made in Australia saw service in Korea, Malaya and New Guinea. Production records showed that 45,477 guns were made and 5,000 magazines and spare parts. It was withdrawn from service in 1966. While it was popular with the soldiers, nicknamed ‘The Diggers Darling’, it was said that if there was a competition for the weirdest looking gun, the Owen would win hands down, most Nashos would have fired the Owen. The Australian War Museum in Canberra has a presentation case with various models. Evelyn Owen died in Wollongong Hospital on 1st January 1949, aged 35. There is a plaque in Wollongong City Council Building in his honour. The Evo Owen Story written by Clive Morton is not currently available Owen Guns Museum is located on the southern fringe of Gympie just off the Bruce Highway and is the largest gun museum in the southern hemisphere.

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LAST POST This LAST Post includes Nashos who are not members of the Association. No Branch is shown beside these Nashos

1/708504 ATHERTON, Thomas Herbert Wacol, 3/1953 1/717541 COOPER, Brian Charles Wacol, 2/1955 Beenleigh Logan 1/709184 EGRETZ, John Edward Wacol, 3/1953 Rockhampton 1/702888 FRESHNEY, Wilfred Mervyn Wacol, 2/1952 Unattached A116494 GREIG, Allan Herbert NO1 NSTU, 1/1956 Bribie Island 1/708620 HANSON, Laurence Arthur Wacol, 3/1953 Tableland 3138NS HERBERT. Ronald Francis HMAS Penguin, 1/1953 Gold Coast South 2/709488 HUNT, Ronald Sylvester Holdsworthy, 2/1954 Gladstone 1/706897 JANSON, Laurence Michael Wacol, 1/1953 Ingham 1/721356 KRAUSE, Neville Lawrence Wacol, 2/1954 Pine Rivers 1/719700 LOGOVIK, Kevin Raymond Wacol, 1/1956 2/700319 LYONS, Francis Edward Ingleburn, 1/1951 Beenleigh/Logan 1/723866 MARMENT, Alexander Walter Wacol, 3/1956 Unattached 1/710318 MELLIFONT OAM, Brian George Wacol, 1/1954 Brisbane South 2/713665 MOORE, Neil William Holdsworthy, 3/1952 Toowoomba 1/702694 MORRICE, Douglas Keith Wacol, 1/1952 3/728852 PARKER. Graeme Puckapunyal, 3/1959 Hervey Bay 1/709211 PATTERSON, Graham William Wacol, 1/1953 South Burnett 1/711570 PAYNE, Darrell John Wacol, 2/1954 Bundaberg 1/705108 PUDDLE, Douglas James Wacol, 3/9152 Unattached 1/700993 RUNDLE, Wray Ernest Wacol,3/1951 Brisbane East 1/722053 SAUNDERS, Kevin Roy (Gator) Wacol, 2/1956 Townsville 1/711377 SCOTT, Robin Maberly Wacol, 2/1954 South Burnett 2/718894 SHANAHAN, John Richard Ingleburn, 1/1953 Gold Coast South 1/718892 SOLWAY, Michael Samuel Wacol, 3/1955 Unattached 2/757691 SOMMERVILLE, Neville Sidney Ingleburn, 2/1956 Beenleigh/Logan 159591 STANSFIELD, Stephen 1978 CMF Beaudesert A115505 TAYLOR, Peter Frederick Amberley. 1/1954 Brisbane South 1/703394 TRIBE, Roy Edward Wacol, 2/1952 Sunshine Coast 2/723492 WHITE, Douglas Aidan Puckapunyal, 3/1953 Hervey Bay

LEST WE FORGET THEY SERVED AUSTRALIA

THE PADRE’S CORNER G’DAY EVERYONE. Greetings to you all. As a lot of you know I am very committed to the ministry of Chaplaincy in our State Schools. This service started in Queensland during 1991 and we, here in the Wynnum Manly area, were one of two High Schools that started with a Chaplain back then. Adam was our first Chaplain at Wynnum State High School. Now into our 29th. year we have Chaplains in eight of our district State

PAGE 7 I have a serious passion for this work and spend a lot of time supporting our Chaplains because, even after Federal Government grants, our local committee needs to raise approx. $130,000 per year to have the days in the Schools. During recent at our “Gala Dinner” time I have done fund raising by having my head shaved in 2016 and this year and 2017 I rode a bike for 20 km. along the Wynnum/Manly waterfront. For those three things I raised for our Chaplains a total of about $21,000. I think there are now over 600 Chaplains with SU in Qld. This article for this “Nasho News” is a true story from a Chaplain somewhere in our great State and it shows me why our Chaplains are essential and why I support them and why I also know that our God hears and answers prayer. A Miracle by the ROADSIDE. When 10 year old Summer’s mum, Tania, pulled off to the side of the road one morning on the way to school, she knew something was wrong. She was sick .... so sick she couldn’t drive any further. That morning Tania was supposed to drop Summer and her five-year old brother, Kael, to school before undergoing radiation treatment. Stranded by the roadside, unable to contact friends or family, little Summer wrapped her arms around her stricken mother and prayed for help. When she opened her eyes, her School Chaplain was in front of her. It sounds like the opening sequence of a movie, BUT it’s the true story of a family who was rescued because of their enduring relationship with their School Chaplain, Chappy Dave. “I’d been working with this family for a while --- mum Tania, Summer in Grade 4 and Kael in Prep --- because mum had had cancer and it went away but came back with a vengeance and she started having pretty full-on radiation treatment,” Chappy Dave recalls. That morning, Chappy Dave wasn’t supposed to be on the highway. He was on his way to school, running late after a real estate agent failed to make an appointment, but then his car fuel light came on. “I’m like, ‘I don’t believe this. Now I’m going to be even more late!’ But I just thought, ‘Oh well’ and fuelled up the car.” “As I’m coming out of the servo I’ve seen this car parked in the carpark and a mum sitting next to the car with her head between her knees, not looking real good at all. I thought, “Gee that’s not good’. Then all of a sudden I saw one of my students walk out from behind the car and put her hands on her mum’s back, and I thought, ‘That’s really not good’ and I realized it was Summer.” “I just fanged my car around and parked next to them, got out, and Summer’s looked up and said, ‘Chappy Dave! What are you doing here?’” Tania explained it was the fourth time she’d needed to pull over on her way to drop Summer at school before going on to her radiation appointment. Kael was in the back of the car. “She said, ‘I absolutely cannot drive, I’ve been sick the whole way’. So I said, ‘Well, move over and I’ll drive you!’ And she said, ‘You can’t do that, you’ve got work to do’. I looked at her and said, ‘You are my work’. “I left all my car windows down, I completely forgot to lock my car and jumped in her car and started driving.” After dropping Summer safely at school, Chappy Dave took Tania to her appointment and kept Kael company while she had her treatment. He then drove Tania and Kael back to the service station where they met that morning, filled up their car for them --- “Because I knew they were struggling financially” --- and organized meals to be delivered to them that afternoon. “It wasn’t until later in the day that Summer’s teacher came up and saw me and said, ‘Oh my gosh, that was crazy what happened this morning! I’m getting goose bumps just telling you!’,” Chappy Dave recalls her saying. “Apparently they’d tried ringing heaps of family and friends that morning and none of them could get there. Summer closed her eyes and was so distressed, she told her teacher, ‘I closed my eyes, put my hands over my mum and asked God to help us, can you just help us?’ And, when she opened her eyes, Chappy Dave was standing there. “I found out later on, that other people in Tania’s family had been praying because they knew no one could get to them.” You can, if you want to, support Chaplaincy, by going to Scripture Union on suqld.org.au/donate and make any donation earmarked for Wynnum Manly Chaplaincy. Also feel free to make contact with me at anytime. Contact Phone 0408 457 931 or tomhelen61@yahoo which is my email). I am only a simple old Nasho from Wacol First Intake, 1956 who wants to serve you, wherever and whenever needed, if possible. Thomas S. Andrews, OAM. (State Padre)

PAGE 8 BRANCH NEWS Edited by John Hardy (john.hardy51@bigpond com) Under the Privacy Act, details about the person including Birthdays, illness and hospitalization cannot be included to Branch News without the person’s consent. Closing Date Wednesday 21st October Folding Date Friday 23rd November

BAYSIDE BRANCH: (Meets 1st Tuesday of the month at 10.30 at Wynnum RSL Tingal Rd Wynnum). Bayside held a short and moving Dawn Service on Anzac Day at our Nasho Memorial at Darling Point. It was attended by a huge crowd of people who enjoyed Danish pastries and tea or coffee at the conclusion. Beautiful Moreton Bay lived up to its name and the setting was picture perfect. Our busy and enjoyable few months stated off with as photographed a visit to the Victoria Barracks and Army Museum to see the Animals in War Exhibition. Who would have thought these brave animals were such a vital part in so many wars. To top the day off we had a tour of the Barracks lead by volunteers showing us around this historic precinct. The Devonshire morning tea was delicious served on silver from the mess. We can’t thank Beaudesert enough for the great day we had out there. Wonderful to sit around and chat with people from other branches while having a tasty barbeque lunch and listening to live entertainment, Country and Western style. Beaudesert Branch sure have what it takes and they are a great bunch of people. Another great day out was a tour we did with a well-informed guide around Beenleigh to Logan Village and beyond. Our guide, had a wealth of knowledge of the area we were passing through, and there is so much history attached to it. We had morning tea there at the historical park where there is a museum and other items of interest including a craft shop which was very popular. This area is also run by volunteers and is well worth a visit. Lunch at the Shearers Arm in Ormeau and onto a few factory outlets to buy cleaning products, frozen pastries and strawberries. A wonderful day out in perfect weather. Bayside currently have a number of members and supporters who are not doing so well at the moment so we wish them well in getting back on track. Branch contact: Secretary Pat Dunne, PH: 33968732. BEAUDESERT: (Meetings 1st Monday of even months 1030hrs. Venue: Beaudesert RSL Function Room) We held our annual BBQ at member Errol Steinhardt’s property “Widgee”, on Sunday 20th May. We met with a group of Beenleigh-Logan Nashos for morning tea in Jubilee Park before boarding a bus for the journey to “Widgee”. When we arrived we were entertained with country music by Tom Moore and Daryl Dennis before enjoying a delicious BBQ lunch in the very scenic surrounds. The group photo shows those that attended the Widgee BBQ. On 25th of June we held a BBQ at Everdell Park, Gleneagle, with Nashos from the Ipswich and Bayside branches attending. Once again Tom Moore entertained the 70 members present with his country music. On Tuesday 24th July our members enjoyed a day out with the Beenleigh-Logan Nashos at the Palm Lakes Resort at Bethania. Many of our members attended the Beaudesert RSL Sub-Branches Centenary Luncheon on the 28th July. Our conference committee have been very busy organising the Beaudesert 2018 NSAA State Conference in October and have planned to make this a memorable time for our visitors. Branch Contact: Brian Buckby, Secretary. Ph: 07 3200 5586 Mobile 0413 897 608.

PAGE 9 BEENLEIGH-LOGAN: (Meeting: 4th Monday each month 1000 hrs. Venue: Beenleigh RSL) Activities this period have been a little lean, but, what we have been involved in has been very worthwhile. The photo shows the group visiting Victoria Barracks Military Museum on Wednesday 13th June. They are: Terry and Joy Green, Keith and Veronica Connors, Jenny Burgess, Bev and Bill Carmichael, Bob Menzies, Trish and Ken Hibbard. The above members went by bus to the museum where they had a guided tour with electronic displays followed by a walking tour. Some of the buildings were unavailable for viewing because of possible safety concerns. This was followed by a lovely morning tea, all enjoyed the morning. Once again the Beaudesert branch has joined our branch, this time for a sit down lunch at Palm Lake Over 50’s Resort Bethania. Members of both branches enjoyed great comradery. This should be the aim of all branches to promote having social gatherings to enjoy comradeship whilst respecting the military significants of our past. Our branch finishes this quarter on a sad note with more members joining the Last Post listing in the Nasho News. Members: Neville Sommerville (Branch recruiting officer) and Brian Cooper, have sadly left us. Lest we forget! Neville’s funeral service was officiated by the branch Padre Trisha Marks with member Terry Green giving Neville an impressive poppy service farewell. Brian Coopers farewell was a family arrangement. Branch Contact: Secretary. Ph: 07 3299 6486. BRIBIE ISLAND – (Meeting: 1st Tuesday on even number months Venue: monthly luncheon at 1130 hours preceded by a meeting on even number months, Phone 34086654 for venue). The Bribie Island Branch including supporters marched proudly at the ANZAC Day march on Bribie Island and once again figured prominently in the local newspaper – see photo. The Bribie Island community is very supportive of the march and thousands line the route and attend the RSL at the completion of the march for the memorial service, wreath laying and fly past. On 5th June, at our regular meeting, the photo shows our State Member, Simone Wilson MP, Member for Pumicestone presenting our Branch with a new Queensland flag to fly at the home of our Vice- President Elizabeth Schilling – the flag was duly raised by the President Roy Nicholas. Later that month, a group of members and supporters travelled by bus to a beautiful restaurant at Montville called Secrets by the Lake. There was great food and atmosphere and a fun day was had by all. We celebrated Christmas in July with a traditional Christmas styled lunch and our Vice- President’s home was beautifully decorated with all things Christmas, including a beautiful Christmas tree. Everyone enjoyed the Christmas crackers and the Christmas pudding. The President, Roy Nicholas, Vice-President, Elizabeth Schilling and committee members and partners attended the annual Bribie RSL President’s lunch on 4th August, 2018 and had a good time. On 15th and 16th October, 2018, the Bribie Branch members and supporters will hold an information booth at the Bribie shopping mall. The previous one held in April this year resulted in quite a few new member enquiries resulting in some new members joining. Contact President Roy Nicholas 07 3408 6654 and Publicity Officer John Price 0439 282 640. BRISBANE NORTH: (Meeting: 1st Sunday each month 1000 hours. Venue: Kedron Wavell Services Club). A full bus load of Nasho’s travelled to Stradbroke Island on a Country Tours bus on board the Ferry. A delightful day of sightseeing was enjoyed by all. Another President’s lunch saw 4 more Nashos reach the magic age of 80 and John Magee, Maureen Noonan, Keith Tidy and Ray Pridley (represented by his wife Ailsa) were presented with their medallion and certificates from Brisbane North member Jean Tidey OAM. Alan Callahan gave a very interesting address re “Our Generation” and reminded us of some great memories and technological changes experienced in our time. Once again Kedron Wavell supplied a wonderful lunch and entertainment was provided by Tapas Music. Late in July was another trip 30 minutes from Brisbane to the Dayboro Gallery following a previous visit 4 years ago. The Moreton Bay Council rebuilt a brand new gallery Long-time gallery member,

PAGE 10 and Nasho Supporter, Sandra Nichols provided morning tea on the deck, which was enjoyed by all. The new building has attracted a lot of interest from local and afar, with visitor numbers showing healthy increases. Members wandered around the other venues in Dayboro and lunch at the local made for a great day out. Picture shows some of the group on the deck at the gallery. Branch Contact Secretary Trevor Koks 07 3261 2688. Further info Brian Nichols 0419717354.

BRISBANE NORTH WEST: (Meeting: 3rd Sunday each month (other than December) 1015 hours. Venue: Gaythorne RSL and a number remain for lunch at the bistro bar). Branch members, particularly those long term, were saddened by the passing of Brian Mellifont OAM on 8th July, 2018, aged 83. He served as an Alderman, Brisbane City Council 1962-1979 and 1985-1994 along with being a Life Member of ALP and CEPU (ETU). Before moving to Brisbane South Branch, Brian was the founder and a past president of this Branch. For those branches seeking guest speakers, we recommend Historians James Lergessner and Peter Dunn. As you can see by their websites Dr. Lergessner specialises in early colonial history and Peter Dunn OAM, a former major general who served in Vietnam is an authority on Brisbane during World War II. Branch Contact Vice President Dave Livett. [email protected] Ph 07 3366 3191. BRISBANE SOUTH: (Meeting: Last Sunday each month 0930 hours. Venue: Sunnybank Bowls Club). A Christmas in July luncheon at Tranquil Park Resort at Maleny was a huge success again this year with a full busload of happy revellers attending. Our excursions are always well supported and it’s great to see friends enjoying each other’s company over a lovely meal. Members attending our monthly meeting has been down due to some away travelling and a few suffering ill health and we hope to see numbers increase as the temps get a little warmer. Further info - Branch Contact: Len Ramsay, 07 3209 5541. BUNDABERG: (Meeting: 2nd Saturday of the month 1330 hrs. Venue: Bundaberg RSL Board Room) Hi one and all as 2018 is progressing along and the Bundaberg Branch continues to hold subsidised luncheons for members. Our last outing was a coach trip to Gladstone with a small cruise around the harbour and now that all the construction works have been finalised there a new things to see. On this trip we saw 2 LNG tankers loading considerable amounts of our gas for export overseas. Also ships were at the Alumina works, coal was stockpiled and a 200,000 tonne vessel was due after our visit. This day out was enjoyed by a coach full of happy travelers. Another application to DVA for a coach subsidy so as to overcome social isolation has also been forwarded to relevant authority. We are awaiting the response to that application. I would like to thank all those members who assisted in the conduct of the Saturday morning raffles at the Services Club. This, plus a similar activity in December are our only fund raising activities each year. Thanks fellas! Another of our successful subsidised luncheons was also held at the end of July. Our next outing is to be a coach trip to Maryborough to visit the Gallipoli to Armistice Memorial which depicts the Allied landing at Gallipoli in 1915. This memorial was dedicated recently on 21 July with much local media coverage. Our tip will continue to Hervey Bay and then home via the coastal areas. A nice short journey, for a change. Branch contact Secretary Brian Trost 07 4151 3485. CABOOLTURE and DISTRICT: (Meeting 2nd. Monday each month 1000 hrs for 1030 hrs start. Venue Caboolture RSL Club, Hasking Street). On the morning of 28th May, a 20+ party from the Caboolture NSAA branch and RSL Sub Branch boarded a charter coach en route to Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera for a tour-of-inspection of the 9 RAR Museum (group photo) and nearby RAR National Memorial Walk precinct. Throughout the morning, we were hosted by members of “Dad’s Army”, a small body of ex-service volunteers who do a marvelous job hosting visitors to the Museum and maintaining the extensive and truly beautiful gardens around the chapel. Prior to inspecting the gardens, we were served with a refreshing morning tea by this group of volunteers which, I might add, includes our own Vince Koch. After leaving the barracks, a short detour was made to Gaythorne RSL Club for lunch, where many partook of the excellent Seniors’ Specials offered. Yes, it dates us! Our thanks go to Bruce Miller – wearing his NSAA Branch Patron

PAGE 11 and RSL Sub Branch Presidency hats that day for organising such an enjoyable outing. At the branch’s July meeting, we welcomed a 6-strong delegation from out northern neighbours, the Sunshine Coast branch. The RSL Club’s catering staff provided a sumptuous Morning Tea prior to the meeting, with much chit-chat in evidence. The visiting President (Ted Weidner) and his Deputy (Jock Graham) addressed the gathering, outlining Sunshine Coast’s aspirations, as well as some of the frustrations faced. Plans are now afoot for Caboolture members to travel to Maroochydore in lieu of our normal October meeting. Members of Bribie Island branch have been invited to join our bus party that day. Branch Contact: Secretary Graeme Marlow (07) 5498 8037. CAIRNS and DISTRICT: (Meetings 2nd Thursday each month at 10:30am Venue: Upstairs at the Cairns RSL boardroom.) At the Cairns AGM held at the Cairns RSL on 10th May, all serving members were returned to office: President, Fred Cave; Vice-President, Pat Galwey; Treasurer, George Russo; Committee: Allen Dean; Assistant Sec/FNQ News Editor John Wallwork. Between them they have amassed sixty-five years of continued service to the serving of the Cairns Branch. An enjoyable day in May was the Tri-Branch rifle shoot, which was held at Tinaroo, where 12 shooters took part: First: Lawrence Calleja; Second: Ron Trackson, both from Innisfail and Third: John Hardy, Tableland. Our Tri-Branch Christmas in July luncheon was held at the picturesque Lake Barrine Tea House. A few people took advantage to cruise the volcanic lake before the festivities began. Neville O’Brien, Pat Galwey (Cairns) and Bob Barkworth (Malanda) received their OBEs. Absent members, who were to receive their OBEs, will do so at their respective branch meetings. Our thanks go to the Tea House owner, Steve Curry and his staff and also to Terry Edmonson (Tablelands) for their fine efforts for a lovely occasion. Guest speaker, 2LT Ron Holden (Retd), a 1st OUT Scheyville officer who spoke on the topic “My Everlasting Nasho Legacy” and the cutting of the OBE cake (made by Terry Edmonson) highlighted the day’s activities. Our meetings are open to All Nasho’s – you will be most welcome. Branch Contact: President Fred Cave Ph 0408 173 112. GLADSTONE: (Meeting: 3rd Wednesday every odd month with a Social Lunch on alternate months at 1300hrs: Venue: Rocky Glen Hotel) A good attendance of members at our meeting in June finally resulted in all Executive positions filled. Thank you to all who stepped up and accepted nomination. Ill health has forced the resignation of our very compassionate Welfare Officer Frank Bowen with Greg Hill accepting to fulfil this important role. On a sad note, members and supporters farewelled popular member Ron Hunt who had been battling ill health for several years before passing away in June. We celebrated Christmas in July in style with friendship and fine food at the popular Gardens cafe, in the Gladstone Botanical Gardens. Thirty-six members and supporters along with our Patron Liz Cunningham and husband John enjoyed the sunshine and surroundings at the gardens. Our very own member Clyde Cameron provided entertainment and as usual, he did not disappoint, I doubt we will ever hear the words and music of Waltzing Matilda in the same way again. Our next social outing is an overnight stay in Yeppoon with a visit to the wonderful Anzac Park and Memorial Precinct at Emu Park. Everybody’s birthdays will now be celebrated with coffee and cake following the Wednesday 19th September meeting. Branch Contact, Val Buchanan Ph 0409766141. GOLD COAST NORTH: (Meeting: 2nd Tuesday each even month 0930 hours. Venue: Mudgeeraba Light Horse and National Servicemen’s Precinct, Mudgeeraba Showground, BBQ to follow meeting.) Amazing how the older one gets the quicker time flies. Here we are again in August where in the past few months our members have enjoyed a number of outings with trips to Twin Towns RSL Club, movies at Star Casino and lunch, a particularly enjoyable visit to the Redlands Museum at Cleveland Showgrounds. Most exciting for fourteen members and partners was cruising aboard the Pacific Dawn. Monday, July 30th, brought us to our Induction Day Memorial Service held this year at the Nerang RSL Cenotaph with guest of honour David Ashton-Lewis, retired Justice of the Qld Supreme Court who delivered a most informative address. Our particular thanks goes

PAGE 12 to the Labrador State School choir and Staff for their attendance and their lovely renditions that were most appreciated. During the past winter months our members and partners, together with staff and volunteers of the Light Horse Museum have entertained over 1000 visitors consisting of classes of school children, scouting groups, retired veterans and seniors groups to our Excursion Program with live-horse tent-pegging and static WWI displays. A special round of thanks to those giving of their time, expertise, and efforts on these occasions. We extend a warm welcome to any Nasho branch looking for such an outing venue, and if interested kindly contact Brian (Bertie) Bertwistle AM., Museum Co-ordinator, at 0418157230. Gold Coast North branch contact: Jeff Wootten, Publicity Officer, Ph. 55466888. GYMPIE BRANCH: (Meetings 2nd Sunday every three months at 1030hrs unless otherwise advised - Venue: Meeting decides usually a barbecue). After the great day with the Sunshine Coast branch late last year we were invited back again so we took up the offer. The photo shows our Branch at their 8th May general meeting. Gympie Branch sends Hellos to all other Branches and wish them good health and fellowship. Branch contact Secretary Gwen Bishop Ph. 0427 975 899 or email - [email protected] .

HERVEY BAY: (Meeting: 4th Wednesday of the month 1000hrs. Venue: Hervey Bay RSL). We here at Hervey Bay have been quiet busy. Some of our members have come down with the flu, but are now on the road to recovery. We had 2 wreath laying ceremonies in the past 2 months the first being the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Support Base CORAL and BALMORAL in Vietnam. The second was to commemorate the 74th Anniversary of the Operation RIMAU. Held at Dayman Park, Urangan on Sunday 8th July 2018, it remembers the 23 Z Force operatives who lost their lives during an abortive raid on Japanese shipping in Singapore Harbour in September 1944. We have still had our “IN-HOUSE” raffle which proved successful. It’s now the start of Whaling Season and we have been successful in obtaining some dates for our Sausage Sizzle’s, with our usual influx of visitors we hope we do better every year. The 1968 NASHO 13th Intake at Singleton held their 50th anniversary in Hervey Bay. Our distinguished Padre Derek Lawton gave a welcoming speech to the members, as well as a dedication at the NASHO memorial the following day. We had 4 Hervey Bay members greet the fellow NASHOs and hope they had a good time here. Our President represented the branch in handing 2 Bears to Kawungan State School in the “Bears For School’s “ programme and according to all reports proved quiet successful and well received. Branch contact President Ian Debert 0429 803 562 or Secretary Brian Barker 0467 642 730. INGHAM: (Meeting: 2nd Tuesday each month 1900hrs. Venue: Ingham RSL). The last Saturday in June for the past 14 years has been dedicated to honouring Nasho Members who have deceased during the preceding 12 months. On that day we also pay respect to Nasho’s Remembrance Day, gazetted as the 14th February each year. Initially, we did just that for 2 consecutive years but, living in a tropical area as we do, we are prone to extremely wet weather, high humidity and very hot temperatures. It was decided that we would change our date to the last Saturday in June and enjoy the day, which on average should to be a perfect NQ winters day; this has been proved to be so. Sadly this year a further 9 names were added to our Nasho Memorial. The ceremony was conducted by the MC Nasho Gordon Schmeirer while the Memorial Service was conducted by our Honorary Pastor, Reverend Peter Blackburn. He also blessed and dedicated the 9 new plaques. The Nasho Address was delivered by WO1 David Willoughby (Retd). After serving in Vietnam David instructed Army recruits, including many National Servicemen. Following the service all adjourned to the Ingham RSL for lunch. David Willoughby and his wife Carol graced our Luncheon, he being the Keynote speaker and they also cut our 16th birthday cake. A grand day was enjoyed by all in attendance. A tinge of deep sadness crept into our deliberations when the dedication and behind the scenes work of our late member, Nasho Roderick E Pearce was recalled and remembered. Rod had been our only Treasurer since formation and served as such until his demise on 31 January 2018. His work and that of his family, their generosity and support made the activities of the Ingham Branch so much easier. In recognition of his long service and dedication the family was presented with an engraved “Stand Down” bronze casting; a lasting memory. The local Men’s Shed intend to make a black bean timber cabinet with glass and a mirror backing to house the treasure, it will be displayed in the reception area of the family business. It was also great to have in attendance Nasho Phil Pearce, previously President of Innisfail Branch, now a resident of Childers. Thirteen members of the Townsville Branch led by our Liaison Officer Vince Crowley and Secretary Kyle MacLeod swelled the attendance. The next important date on our agenda was Vietnam Veterans day commemorated on 18th August and many Nashos were in attendance. Branch Contact - Secretary Maurie Filei Phone 07 4776 1752.

PAGE 13 INNISFAIL BABINDA TULLY: (Meeting: 4th Tuesday each month 1800hrs. Venue Innisfail RSL). Nine members attended the Battle of Coral Sea Commemoration in Cardwell on May 6th. This was particularly significant because the wreck of the USS Lexington had recently been located. The photo shows Innisfail member Rob Saunders standing in front of the Nasho Banner along with members of 4 other northern NSAA Branches. Plans for the refurbishment of the Nasho Memorial in ANZAC Park in Innisfail are progressing. We await the news if our application for a grant has been successful. This will provide a vast improvement on its present form. Bill McDonnell, the Nasho from this area who died of sickness whilst undergoing training at Wacol in 3rd Intake 1952 will be honoured with a plaque at Wacol along with 21 others who died whilst training. The story ran in our local paper and created much interest. Other branches might have also run across inconsistencies in the official information when looking for details for wording of the plaques. An Inter-Branch rifle shoot using open sight weapons has been organised for August 25 at Kurrimine Beach range. This is a competition between three far northern branches with Innisfail Nasho Lawrence Calleja the current trophy holder. Branch contact, Secretary, Margaret Saunders 07 4061 2770 / 0428 612 770. REDLANDS: (Meeting: 1st Sunday each month 0945 for 1000 hours start. Venue: Gallipoli Room, Redlands RSL.) “My attention was drawn to a story released last week in which a number of Health Professionals explained the way in which exercise programs are being used to cure a number of ailments. Some results have been quite remarkable. This is not a new idea and the value of an exercise program in making life better as we age is well documented. Apparently what is now being discovered is that a properly organized program of exercise fitted to a particular complaint can not only bring improvements in wellbeing but actually cure an incredible number of ailments. The story has stimulated my enthusiasm for the exercise scheme we have set up within the Branch. Up to now we have endeavoured to help our members by removing disincentives like cost and lack of commitment; however, I would like now to find a way that we can assist our members to improve their health in this way. In general it can prove difficult and confusing to find suitable opportunities. It will be good if we can find a way to make the path easier. In the meantime, we will be making arrangements with Andrew the Exercise Physiologist who helped inaugurate our present scheme, to have him carry out a review of present participant’s progress and assist any new-comers to get started.” Eric Shaw, President. Statement ends. Between 85 and 95 members enjoy the friendly atmosphere at our monthly meetings with many of those members also attending the monthly Mess Hall Dinners which, in July, took the form of a Christmas in July luncheon at the Redlands RSL when 58 people attended to enjoy the traditional three-course Christmas meal. Those who went on the recent trip to Stanthorpe seem to have ignored the cold winter weather and enjoyed the event. Social Organiser Phil has now planned a day trip in August touring the Scenic Rim in a 50 seater coach. We have had some interesting speakers recently with Nicole Roselt giving a presentation in June on DNA Analysis and in July, one of our members, John Butler, an ex-Commando himself, showing us a presentation of the very demanding requirements needed to become a Commando today. We invite any of the local Nasho groups looking for a day out to visit us here in the Redlands to look through our Military Museum which has recently been re-furbished with the addition of a dedicated WW1 room full of interesting memorabilia. Entry is free and many of the volunteers at the Museum are themselves Nashos. Maybe the visit could be teamed with having lunch at the RSL and visiting some of the other attractions in our area. Branch Contact: Les Warner, Membership / Development Officer, 07 3821 2894 Mobile 0450 577 186. ROCKHAMPTON: (Meeting: 4th Wednesday of the month 1030hrs. Venue: Frenchville Sports Club) All Rockhampton Anzac Day ceremonies were well attended. The Dawn Service at the Botanical Gardens and the parade through the city. Lunch was taken with the RSL at the Frenchville Sports Club. The two up game attracted a fair crowd, with some of the customers of the club joining in. There was the usual afternoon visit to Marmor for their 4 pm service. There was a good crowd in attendance and it was great to see the schools from Marmor and Bajool who were invited with some of the students taking part in the ceremony. Secretary John Day has organised a day trip to the Capricorn Coast. Included in the trip is a visit to St. Christopher’s Chapel. Morning tea will be taken at Joskeleigh Museum situated just south of Keppel Sands and was where some of the South Sea Islanders who came to work in Queensland settled. There is a lot of history too be seen. Lunch will be taken at the Pine Beach Hotel in Emu Park as well as viewing the excellent ANZAC Memorial. On the way back to Rockhampton the coach will travel the Scenic Highway to Yeppoon with a visit to the $53 million Yeppoon Lagoon precinct. Branch Contact Secretary John Day – Ph 07 4928 0081 / 0439 090 738.

PAGE 14 SUNSHINE COAST: (Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of the odd month at 1000 hrs. Venue: Maroochydore RSL) I trust everyone is in good health and spirits. We seem to be plodding along and looking forward to some exciting events. The photo shows Alex Garlin, Neil Freir, Ted Weidner (President), Tony Stevenson and Errol Cauley (President) from NSAA Gympie at our 8th May meeting. Our picnic in June was a success and the 2nd Light Horse Regiment-Woombye Troop Museum was very interesting. We have picnics at Mooloolaba Spit and Golden Beach coming up and a meeting on 11th September. All nashos are welcome to join us. We are in the process of trying to organise an inter-branch picnic at Golden Beach with members from Bribie Island, Caboolture and Gympie which should be fun. With memberships dwindling, it’s good to be in touch with other branches. We need suggestions for future outings and catch ups (keeping in mind our age and capabilities. I think skydiving might be out). For Vietnam Veterans Day on Saturday 18th August, our Branch members marched to the Cotton Tree cenotaph along the Esplanade at Maroochydore. Our next effort will be Remembrance Day Badge selling and we are looking for volunteers to help out at Noosa Civic and Sippy Downs. Please contact Ted or Jock if you can help out. Both Ted Weidner and Jock Graham with their wives will be attending the annual NSAA State Conference at Beaudesert in October. We look forward to their report. For further information, phone President Ted Weidner 544 35915. TABLELAND: (Meeting: 2nd Sunday of each month at 1000 hours. Venue: Nasho’s shelter at the Rocky Creek War Memorial Park). A successful Tableland Inter-Branch Rifle Shoot was organised by Patron Ray Byrnes on 12 May 2018 at the SSAA Atherton range located at the old Tinaroo quarry. Twelve shooters from the Tableland, Cairns and Innisfail Branches contested the competition with Lawrence Calleja (Innisfail) being awarded the Top Marksman trophy for the second time. A social committee consisting of Bill and Kay McDonald and Ted Rolley organised an excellent Mystery Tour on June 27. We began the day by visiting Piñata Pineapples owned by the Scurr Family. The photo shows Farm Supervisor Stephen Scurr showing off his skills with a machete while Branch Patron Ray Byrnes volunteers for the taste testing. Then it was off to Mareeba Skybury Coffee and Papaya, Camp 64 Café at Dimbulah, FGF and Remondis Regional Waste Management Facility and the MSF Tableland Sugar Mill at Springmount. Its Green Energy Power Plant is due to be turned-on mid-season to convert the Mill’s biomass waste (bagasse) into baseload electricity. Our annual Tri- Branch Christmas in July was held on 2 July 2018 at the Lake Barrine Teahouse. There was a good attendance of about 50 from the Tableland, Cairns and Innisfail Branches. After a long illness, Arthur Hanson of Tolga died at the Atherton Hospital on 22 May 2018. His funeral was held on 28 May 2018 at Atherton with the service presided over by Branch Chaplain Mick Grant. Branch members provided a Guard of Honour outside the Chapel and John Hardy delivered a graveside service with poppies. As a tribute to Arthur, John Hardy provided an obituary to most NQ newspapers and the Courier Mail. Members were busy on 12th August supporting the VP Day observance at the WWII Rocky Creek War Memorial Park where our Nasho shelter is located. Ray Byrnes and Valarie O’Rourke unveiled the Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC) plaque in memory of those 100,000 members who served in the Corps. The DVA provided us with a ‘Saluting Their Service’ (STS) Commemorations Program grant for its installation. The Cairns Scout Hut was the Cairns HQ for the 17th Battalion VDC Queensland and Innisfail Drill Hall was the HQ for the 18th Battalion VDC Queensland. Branch Contact, Secretary Terry Edmondson ph. 07 4095 4154 / 0409 924 711. TOOWOOMBA (Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 1900hrs; (odd months); 2nd Sunday at 1300pm (even months). Venue: Irish Club Hotel (Meals available before meetings). In our last contribution ANZAC Day stalls were starting and already we are making preparations for the Remembrance Day sales. Time flies. On ANZAC Day our numbers were down a little at the march and a few more took advantage of the motor transport provided, but we were there. A fly-over of choppers from Oakey Army Aviation Base and another from the War Birds at Toowoomba Aerodrome added to the atmosphere.

PAGE 15 Our annual Widow’s Day has also been and gone and the photo shows those in attendance. We didn’t have any new widows this year which is good, but we treated our previous ones to lunch. There was a good roll-up of 44 members and supporters attending. As we have done in previous years, we made a donation to the local hospice. We held our OBE lunch on 12th August and a number of our branch members and wives are going to the Annual Conference at Beaudesert in October. Also in the planning stage, there is a one-day bus trip in our local region at the end of October. Locals take note! Branch Contact Secretary Phone 07 4633 2564. TOWNSVILLE: (Meeting: 2nd Wednesday each month 1930 hours. Venue: Townsville RSL) A large crowd attended the 2018 Dawn Services at ANZAC Park and Thuringowa. Books were laid at various services by President Vince Crowley, VP Neville Hines, Welfare Officer Leon Jeffery and Ken Reid. Secretary Kyle MacLeod laid one in memory of his father who died as a POW on the Burma Railway on 3rd June, 1943. For the main Civic Parade from Strand Park, some of members choose to ride in restored military vehicles. One of the Flag Party was Branch member and NZ Nasho Ross Cameron who carried the New Zealand Flag. On 6th May, 15 members and supporters travelled to Cardwell for the 76th anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea Commemoration Service: A large number of Nashos from 5 Northern Branches marched. Wreaths were laid by all Presidents from Townsville, Ingham, Innisfail, Cairns and Tablelands. A successful Darts night was held on 16th May with the Townsville RSL Social Darts Club. Winners were Neville and Sally Hines with Ken Reid as runner up. Our annual 70/80 Birthday Party was held at the Townsville RSL on 23rd May with 87 attending. President Vince welcomed the VIP’s including the Mayor Cr Jenny Hill and Husband Shane. Our new Branch Chaplain Rev Andrew Millsom from the Presbyterian Church at North Shore was also present. Seven OBE’s were presented by Vince to the members Jim Chaillon, Maurie Degiovanni, Ken Reid, Bev McLaughlan, Maureen Tagney, June Wlikinson and Pam Ring. Seven members were recognised for turning 70 years of age this year, they being Deanne Bell, Russell Caldwell, Myrna Dwyer, Margaret Purdon, Eleanor Spillane and Peter Trease. On 16th July, a coach load of members travelled to Charters Towers to farewell the Nasho Intake 3/54 retired Branch Chaplain Archdeacon John Emerson. The photo taken at the RSL by Newsletter editor Paul Hoare shows Vince presenting John’s wife Judith with a bunch of flowers. The Welfare Officer’s wife Jan Jeffery was also presented with a Meritorious Service Award. The Tour Guide for the day was supporter Marie Thomasson who took us on a tour through the old Sellheim Army Camp at Sellheim and a street tour of Charters Towers. Branch contact Secretary Kyle MacLeod on 07 4779 3929. NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S RSL SUB BRANCH (INC.): (Meeting: 2nd Sunday each month at 0900 hours. Venue: Norman Park Sports and Community Club, Norman Avenue, Norman Park). Since our ANZAC Day Parade and Service we have been busy with our next programs for the year. We held a Meet & Greet Morning in May attended by our members, their wives and invited guests with speakers discussing subjects such as Health, Holidays and these were greatly enjoyed by all who were there. At the end of the morning we had a light luncheon which was enjoyed by all and we sat around and talked about the subjects and how they are helping us to change our thinking on many different subjects. We will be holding another one later in the year, with the discussion solely on Men’s Health. When all is in place the invitations will be sent out to interested parties. Should be another good day for those coming. We are now preparing for our Vietnam Veterans Service Day on Saturday 18 August 2018, and this is a regular event on our calendar. We hope to have some of the RAN Band Queensland to provide the music for the service and look forward to as many of our members, wives, and invited guests arriving for this event. All are welcome to come. Contact Secretary Margaret Besgrove on 07 3349 2468.

PAGE 16 NASHO NOTICEBOARD Got a reunion planned? Looking for an old Nasho mate? Want to get information on anything? This is your page . . .

NOTICE OF MEETINGS The following meetings will be held at the Beaudesert RSL, 23/25 William Street, Beaudesert SATURDAY, 13th OCTOBER 2018 Delegates Meeting: 0830 hrs for 0900 hrs Business: Opening; Ode; Apologies; Confirmation of Minutes of Previous Meeting; Business arising from Minutes; SMC Matters (1) Wacol Development, (2) Update of Constitution and By-Laws; (3) Briefing by Future’s Committee; Branch Issues; General Business. General Meeting: 1245 hrs for 1300 hrs Business: Opening; Ode; Apologies; Confirmation of minutes of previous meeting; Business arising from minutes; Treasurer’s Reports including P&L Account for period APRIL 2017 to SEPTEMBER 2017; Membership Report 1st March to 30th September; General Business SUNDAY, 14th OCTOBER 2018 Church Service 1015 hrs for 1030hrs. Visitors are welcome at all meetings but can only speak if recognised by the Chairman. Proxies for the General Meeting should preferably be on the approved form and must be received at the State Headquarters no later than Thursday 4th October 2018. Proxy Forms are available from Branch Secretaries and on the State Website ======BEAUDESERT CONFERENCE REMINDER Thursday 11/10/2018: Bus Pick-up; Airport 2pm Roma Street 3pm Registration/Meet and Greet: 5.30 to 9.00pm $40.00 Friday 12th: Bus trip – Robotic Dairy and Dugandan Hotel 9.30 to 3.30pm Saturday 13th: Delegates and General Meetings Bus Trip – Non-Delegates: Canungra and Lamington $10.00 Conference Dinner: 1800 for 1830hrs - $40.00 Sunday 14th : Morning Tea 9.30am Church Service: 1030hrs Lunch: 1200hrs $15.00 ======ADVOCACY As you aware the Advocacy for dealing with DVA issues has changed over the past year and Nashos will have to go through an RSL. In Brisbane area, Mr Bradley Skinner has offered to work out of the Bunker to assist with any dealings with DVA. By appointment only. In any other areas, Nashos should work through the local RSL Advocate who must assist Nashos. ======WHERE ARE YOU Laurel Gollogly 1/701745, is looking for Nasho Mateswho were in his hut at Wacol in the first intake in 1952, B Company. His contact detail is P O Box 722, Ingham. 4850 ======GATTON COLLEGE KOREA AND VIETNAM VETERANS John Hardy is seeking the names of Korea and Vietnam veterans who were past students of the Queensland Agricultural College now University Queensland Gatton Campus. Their names will go onto a plaque in the Museum at Gatton. His contact detail are inside the front cover or email [email protected] Beenleigh Logan Branch has had the above bunper sticker made for its members. The stichers cost $3.00 each plus postage to any branches that requires them. Please contact the Merchandising Officer, Jenny Burgess on 0439 770281

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