SERVICEMEN'S ASSOCIATION

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

Issue No 142 November 2020

Feature Stories: President/Treasurer Reports Page 1 State Meeting Wacol Pages 2-3 Last Post Page 8

Directory Front Cover State Management State President Alex Garlin unveils Committee the new plaques on the National Patron: Service Wall in the Coral Sea Battle Councillor Angela Owen Memorial Park in Cardwell. The President: plaque honours the 19 North Alex Garlin 07 3847 9690 0417 621 411 Queensland Nashos who died in Vice-President: the service of their country or are Tony Stevenson OAM 07 3397 7512 buried in the north. Secretary: Gordon Tunstall 0412 886 042 Apology: I described the photo on the front cover of August Edition as Asst Secretary: Ingrid Lundgren 07 3324 1277 being the SMC for 2020/21. The little birdie forgot to tell me that the Treasurer: Neal Freier 07 3348 2080 group was done up on the occasion 0427 000 408 of lunch to acknowledge Tony’s Administration Manager: Stevenson’s OAM. Tony Stevenson OAM 07 3397 7512

Welfare Officer: Vacant Official NSAA Chaplain: Merchandise Thomas (Tom) Andrews OAM 07 3396 8033 OFFICIAL NSAA MERCHANDISE 04 0845 7931 Beret $32 Minute Secretary: Beret Badge – Pewter $5.50 Beret Badge – Silver Six Sided Logo $20 Gordon Tunstall 0412 886 042 Book – 20 Year History of the NSAA 1987 to 2007 $25 Caps Embroidered with Nasho Logo $17.50 Coffee Cup with Nasho Logo $ 9.00 Editor Nasho News: Flag – Association Logo White Full Size (6'x3') $220 Flag – Association Logo White small size (hand waver) $12.50 Vince Crowley 07 4779 9460 Lapel Badge – Association Blue $5.50 0428 193 076 Lapel Badge – Navy, Army or Air Force $6.50 Lapel Badge – Tri-service $6.50 Editor Branch News Medals Full Size Unmounted Swing Court John Hardy OAM 07 4095 4154 ADM $18 $22.50 $27.50 ANSM $18 $22.50 $27.50 0408 939 910 Duo ADM+ANSM $36 $45 $55 Miniatures Unmounted Swing Court Membership Officer: ADM $12 $16.50 $21 Ingrid Lundgren 07 3324 1277 ANSM $12 $16.50 $21 Duo $24 $40 $45 State Office Medal Ribbon Bar with ADM+ANSM medal ribbons $15 Miniature Metal Ribbon Bar ADM+ANSM $10 Eric Sivell Park, 171 Boundary Road, Camp Hill, Necktie with Nasho Logo $33.50 Brisbane 4152 Nasho Pocket Patch – Bullion Thread – Red $36 Office Hours: 9.00am to 1.00pm Nasho Pocket Patch – Queensland Red Logo $10 Nasho Port $13.50 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Nasho Key Rings Acrylic $4.50 Phone (07) 3324 1277 Nasho Wattle Key Rings $10 Number plate covers ‘I Am a Nasho’ $22 Email: [email protected] Shirts – Chambray short or long sleeves S M L XL XXL (add $3 for XXXL size) $36 Mail to: National Servicemen's Association Shirts – Polo White or Maroon S M L XL XXL P.O. Box 7014 Holland Park East Qld 4121 (add $3 for XXXL size) $31 Web: www.nashoqld.org.au Stubby Holder with Nasho Logo $5.50 Video – 50 year anniversary celebrations $5 Nominal Roll/Webmaster Video – Last March Out at Wacol $5 Alex Garlin 07 3847 9690 [email protected] Wall Plaque – 6 sided Nasho Logo on Timber $42.50 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. STATE PRESIDENT’S REPORT (Alex Garlin) Our State conference Delegates, General meeting and AGM went ahead with the advice of the Qld State Government and Qld health department corona virus paper to sign and keep for future meetings. At the AGM Tony Stevenson was moved as our new Vice President and Gordon Tunstall replaced Len Matthews as our new Secretary. Len Matthews has after many years retired as Secretary. I would like to thank Len for his tireless work for our Association. Our Association SMC Executive met with the Mayor of Brisbane Adrian Schrinner at Wacol on the 22nd September 2020. Fruitful discussions were held between both parties and PNGVR museum staff also had an opportunity to speak with BCC representatives. Please find more on this topic inside the back cover. Tony and I flew to Cairns for the unveiling of a memorial at the Cardwell Coral Sea Battle Memorial Park. The memorial honours Australian Army 51 to 72 National Servicemen who lost their lives while serving in North Queensland or who are buried here. This was attended by over 100 Nashos and family. Tony Stevenson recited the Ode. I would like to congratulate John Hardy and his team on the ceremony. It was very impressive and well organised. The Hervey Bay Branch have previously proposed to hold an Association State Conference in September 2022. Tony and I again travelled there on 29 October to meet the Branch President Brian Baker and his committee along with the RSL Sub Branch President Brian Tidyman. Planning is underway to make this a memorable occasion and transport, ceremonial and accommodation issues were some of the items discussed. Hervey Bay RSL in itself own two motels in the area. Our SMC will discuss this along with how we recognise the 70th anniversary of National Service in July / August 2021. I hope the AGM in March will go ahead without restrictions so that we can have the attendance of all branches. Stay safe and keep well. Alex Garlin TREASURER’S REPORT (Neal Freier) Well COVID-19 still has an impact on everyone but despite this we were able to hold our belated AGM in September. We had a set of COVID-19 safety rules which we had to comply with and although, understandably, we had less members in attendance, we had a very successful and full day. I was able to present my annual audited financial report which was well accepted by our members. We are still in a sound financial position and this is mainly because of our success in applying for grants. On the subject of grants we recently received two unexpected $10,000 grants from the Brisbane City Council. One guess who was responsible ? Yes our patron Angela Owen! This amazing lady is just so passionate about the Nashos and nothing is ever a problem to her should we ask for something. (Fact is we didn’t ask for this one, Angela just told us what to do !) I had a visit to our lovely auditor two weeks ago and a came away with another $15,000 she was able to get from the Federal Government and there is another $5,000 coming in two weeks time. It is called a cash flow boost. I knew nothing about this entitlement but our Auditor did. This is another amazing lady who really supports the Nashos. I am waiting for a result from two large grant applications sometime between now and Christmas, one of which should almost be enough to complete work at the Wacol Precinct. We are trying to get the buildings at Wacol up to scratch so we can make application for the entire precinct to be heritage listed. This is costly but so far we have been able to meet the costs with grants. Are any branches listening to me? Are you applying for grants? Well that about wraps it up for this edition. Christmas is fast approaching and I wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Keep well and be kind to each other. Cheers Neal Freier

PAGE 1 SUMMARY OF STATE MEETINGS HELD AT THE WACOL HERITAGE PRECINCT ON SATURDAY 12th SEPTEMBER 2020 Three meetings were held on this day, Delegate’s Meeting; General Meeting and Annual General Meeting. DELEGATES MEETING: Two Delegate Meetings are held each year to discuss matters concerning the management, running, forward planning and general welfare of the Association and Branches. Each Branch is entitled to two delegates with one vote each. The SMC does not have a vote unless a member is a fully appointed Branch Delegate. Due to COVID-19 attendance was considerably reduced with attendance being 16 delegates (including one SMC member), 7 SMC Members and 1 visitor. The quorum is one half the number of branches Issues Discussed: • Queensland Branch Memorials: There has been an on-going project to get all Branch Memorials onto the State Website and eventually the National Website. Go to the State Website nashoqld.org.au and click on Qld Nasho Memorial and then click on your Branch. If there is information there then probably the good fairy has visited. Feel free to provide more details to State Office. • Cardwell Memorial Project: On Sunday 25th October 2020 a plaque on the National Servicemen’s Wall in the Coral Sea Battle Memorial Park will be dedicated. This plaque is to honour the northern Nashos who lost their lives while serving in North Queensland or are buried here. The plaque acknowledges three indigenous soldiers. • Financial Status of SMC and Branches: In preparing information for the Grant from ADCC a comparison of funds held by Branches and SMC showed that of the total funds, Branches hold 74% of the total and SMC has 26%. • Member’s Welfare: Most Branches hold significant funds in Welfare Accounts and if continue to amass funds without giving consideration to spending it on their members they could attract the attention of the ATO through ACNC. Funds could be used for Funeral Expenses. Household Support, Personal Hardship, Mobility Aids, News Supporter. • Branch Incorporation: On the advice of Office of Fair Trading, Funds held by a Sub-Branch cannot be transferred to the Incorporated Body. Therefore there is no point in Incorporating at this stage. There will be plenty of time for this when SMC is folding. • Audits: There was discussion on cost Audit Fees. The average fee is about $350. • Accounts not being audited: All branches should have funds audited. People with relative experience (banks Staff, book-keepers) can audit accounts up to ($100,000). If being lodged with OFT permission has to be sought on Annual Return. • Letter from Innisfail and Ingham: Dave Burgess circulated a letter from the two branches with 14 proposals. The letter was referred for action by SMC and response sent back to the two Branches. Meeting closed at 9.50am

GENERAL MEETING: (Any Eligible Member can attend this meeting and participate in discussions as an individual. Two General Meetings are held each year and, if necessary, special general may be called at any time. The quorum is the number of members elected or appointed at the close of the last State Meeting plus 1)

PAGE 2 Treasurer’s Explanation: Treasurer Neal Freier gave a detailed response to Dave Burgess on matters that were raised at the September 2019 meeting. Wacol Lease: Recent meetings with the Lord Mayor of Brisbane have proved positive. Notice of Motions: As Vince Crowley and Ian Kuhl were not available due to COVID 19, Vince had withdrawn the Motions prior to the meeting. These will be presented at March 2021 meeting. • Motion 7: Dealing with clause 5.1 (d) Motion was defeated. • Motion 8: dealing with clause 16 2 (d). Motion was defeated. • Motion 9: dealing with clause 31 9 (b). Motion was defeated. • Motion 10: dealing with appointment of auditor. Motion was withdrawn. • Motion 11: dealing with Governance. Motion withdrawn. RSL Forest Lake Sub-Branch Joint Agreement Proposal: • Since January 2020 the Sub-Branch has occupied the dilapidated caretaker’s hut and have made renovations and construction of a ramp (see photo). Two community organisations are using the Everyman’s Hut for a fee. There is a signed agreement for this arrangement, The Sub-Branch has spent considerably funds in renovating the building. Close of Meeting: 1400 hours. Next Meeting: Wacol 20th March 2021 at 10.30 for 11.00

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: opened at 1420 hrs This is normally held in March but due to CODID-19 had to be deferred. A meeting had to be held so as to comply with Office of Fair Trading (OFT) who had granted us an extension to lodge. Any Eligible Member can participate in the meeting. President’s Report: Report covered COVID-19; 2020/21 SMC Nominations; Congratulations to Tony Stevenson; Association Future; Politicians who assist us; Wacol Heritage Precinct; National Serviceman’s Day; Members Wellbeing; White Cards and Veterans’ Covenant; Branch Visits, Cardwell Trip and State Library Nasho Interpretative Table. Treasurer’s Report: John Hardy, in preparing the claim for a Grant from ANZAC Day Commemorative Committee listed the individual amount of Grants received and gave a break-up of Receipts and Payments in descending order of worth. $2,000 was given to 10 Branches with less than $5,000 in their accounts. This grant is to be used for Welfare purposes. $57,000 was received from ADCC for 2019 year and this was placed in Welfare Account. Membership Report: Total 2655. Eligible Members 1625; Supporters 811; Others 94. Awards: • Rowland Williams Memorial Trophy: For dedicated service, achievement and most outstanding contribution to the Association for the year - Len Ramsay, Brisbane South. • Barry Vicary Memorial Trophy: Highest numerical increase in membership - Innisfail, Tully, Babinda. • Dennis Connon Memorial Trophy: Largest percentage membership increase – Innisfail, Tully. Babinda. • John Seymour Memorial Shield: Best membership retention – Bayside Branch. • Peter Ryan Award: Outstanding work by a Branch in promoting the Association including publicity and dedication – Gold Coast North Branch. Life Membership: The award was presented to Dave Burgess, Brisbane North. Election of Officers: The only changes were Tony Stevenson, Vice President but keeping Administration Officer; Gordon Tunstall, Branch Secretary and keeping Minute Secretary. Gordon replaced Len Matthews who retired from close of meeting. Close of Meeting: 1540hrs

PAGE 3 A RAEME Soldier at the Battle of Long Tan By 41961 WO1 (Bob) R.C. Thompson (Ret) Forty years ago I heard a story about a RAEME soldier being at the Battle of Long Tan. I immediately dismissed it as bullshit. I heard it again in 1999, when I was applying to have the pilot, Flt Lt Cliff Dohle’s MID upgraded to a DSM. Flt Lt Cliff Dohle piloted the first helicopter that dropped ammunition which saved the lives of ‘D’ Company 6RAR. I was so focused on getting Cliff Dohle his DSM, which he eventually received, I forgot about the story. Two years ago, I again heard there was a RAEME soldier at the Battle of Long Tan, this time I thought I would check it out, as the story had surfaced too many times not to have some validity. I knew the soldier wasn’t with the ground troops because I had researched 1APC Squadron, 3 Troop and ‘D’ company 6RAR. Two of the people on helicopter A2-1020, were RSM WO1, George Chin and Major Owen O’Brien, flown by Flt Lt Francis (Frank) Riley. They’ve been well documented in books such as The Battle of Long Tan by Lex McAulay and many others. But nobody knew who the other two were on aircraft A2-1022 flown by Flt Lt Cliff Dohle. These people helped load the second chopper as well as wrap the ammo in blankets. They stayed on board to help push out the ammo when A/C hovered over ‘D’ company. This aircraft carried most of the ammunition, and was first over ‘D’ company to drop the ammunition. After two years of research, I eventually discovered who the RAEME soldier was. He was 1200605 Cfn Robert Service, Armourer, RAEME attached 6RAR. Most people have never heard of Cfn Service because he applied to Army Aviation after Vietnam. He later trained to become an Airframe Fitter, and served out his six years and left Aviation and the army to work for Bell Helicopters at Brisbane Qld. I asked Robert Service now retired to tell me his story this is his response: “On the afternoon of the 18 August 1966, I was enjoying a drink of beer with the Admin Company. A Sgt ran up to us and ordered the group to go over to the ‘Q’ store and collect ammunition boxes and load them into the two helicopters that were sitting on our pad. As the only RAEME person there, I thought it was my duty to volunteer to help out. We did this in a tropical monsoonal downpour. We loaded the two helicopters and I noticed I had the last box of ammo to be loaded and as I did, I saw the ‘Q’ store Cpl McCutchen arrive with a bundle of blankets and he jumped on board with them. I could see he needed my help so I climbed aboard the helicopter and help him wrap the ammo boxes. While we were busy doing this, the pilot took off. (Picture Flt Lt Cliff Dohle DSM) The noise of the tropical downpour combined with the engine noise, plus the adrenalin rush, blocked out any communications with one another. After a short period of time, we arrived at our destination; we were at tree top height. Through the rain, you could see the trees. I helped push the ammo boxes as well as some ammo in sand bags right to the edge of the floor of the helicopter. The A/C rolled on its side and the load helped by the door gunner and ourselves left the A/C and fell to the ground. After the drop we returned to Nui Dat. Our helicopter was A2-1022; it was piloted by Flt Lt Cliff Dohle. I knew we were sitting ducks; we were at tree top about 20/30 feet above the ground, and you could see the rubber trees through the blinding rain. The helicopter had on all its navigation lights as well as the flashing strobe light on at the top of the A/C.” Aircraft A2-1022 piloted by Flt Lt Cliff Dohle and Flt Lt Bruce Lane, door gunners, Cpl. Bill Harrington, LAC Brian Hill, ammo unloaders Cfn Robert Service and Cpl William McCutchen is now restored as a Memorial and sits on a stand out the front of Caloundra Qld RSL.

PAGE 4 APPRECIATION OF ROLE OF ARMY RESERVE

This letter/email below, has been sent out to the Second Division Officers through ‘Unclassified’ means, and is OK for distribution to the network as an example of how the employment of Army Reserve has certainly changed since the 1970’s. Even though not a ‘warlike’ operation, the AS GOV response to the COVID-19 Pandemic has provided an opportunity for active Army Reserve Soldiers to bring their civilian management and trade skills to the table. For example, we have a Private in Kennedy Company, 31/42 RQR at Cairns, who is an Orthopedic Surgeon, and another who is a QANTAS Pilot. We have private soldiers working through Masters Degrees at University, all bringing specialist skills to the Army at a rate never before seen. We also have the average men and women mixed in who have normal jobs like we did when we joined up, who are exceptionally fit, smart and innovative in thinking. The face of the Army Reserve is certainly changing. One thing of note is the exemption of essential personnel such a Police, Prisons, Nurses etc. These members are still able to be employed in rear details manning CP’s in watch keeper roles etc, and continuing with their training during this ‘call for’ service - not ‘call out’ for service

Officers of the Second Division, What a privileged time it is to be wearing the uniform of our country. You can be especially proud that the task of commanding and controlling the ADF domestic response to the national COVID-19 crisis has been given to the Second Division on a national level and in each State. Your past performances – in fires and floods, in Iraq and Afghanistan, on TSE and RCB among others – is the reason for the trust that has been placed in us. You have proven the capability and strength of the part-time force. Thank you. Now our nation has called – and they have called on us. We are joined by our fulltime colleagues and the Navy and Air Force. A number of you are already amongst it – achieving quarantine compliance, contact tracing, logistic support – providing the nation with wonderful and immediate assurance. We will continue to prepare the required force well, and as tasks increase, many more of you will be Called For. Our tasks will be many and varied. Please stay close to your chain of command. You will be well trained prior to deploying in harm’s way. Please look after and prepare your families. The essence of who we are has prepared us well for what is to come. My guidance to each of you is to lead with your humanity. It is your greatest strength. It remains a privilege to serve in support of you. Clean Hands and Good Soldiering. M. Bond, CSC and Bar Brigadier A/Commander Second Division

PAGE 5 FLASHBACK – NEW LOOK EDITION 49 SEPTEMBER 2000 64 PAGES

I have heard an interesting definition of National Servicemen’s Association of Australia as a diverse group of men united by an unique experience. That experience, of course, was National Service and uniquely 10 Australian military history. We were called up for compulsory service in peacetime. Of our 287,000, a total of 63,000 did go on to serve in the war in Vietnam, 20,000 in the frontline and the remainder is support services -but the country as a whole was not on a general war footing as in World War Two. The political parties may be ashamed of compulsory service – the conscription bogey seems to frighten them – but we are proud that we did our duty and did it well. That perception that those of us in the first call-up from 1951 to 1959 somehow were boy soldiers who never fired even an odd angry shot is an old one given that there was no similar perception about the Army Reserve who until recently also had not faced hostile until some of its members served in East Timor. It is also one of the reasons why the N.S.A.A. was not formed until 25 years after the second National Service call-up ended in 1972. The Association’s aims is to foster fellowship amongst Nashos, to organise official and social events; to represent Nashos in matters such as relations with Federal and State Governments; to put our case to Canberra for recognition of our contribution to Australia’s defence preparedness through the issue of an official medal; to foster good relationships with other Service organisations such as R.S.L. and other veteran associations and to promote the image of Nashos with the community and the media. But no matter how hard we work at the organisational level, we can’t succeed without YOU. Without your active support and your financial support the N.S.A.A. will simple fade away. The rule of thumb in nearly all voluntary organisations is that about eight percent of the membership do the work. 90% are content to belong and two percent complain ‘what has the association done for me lately’? In our case, we can say the N.S.A.A. has gained the right to march on ANZAC Day, the right to wear our commemorative medal during the march, recognition by the R.S.L., as a service organisation. Recognition by the Federal Government as representing a legitimate group of ex-servicemen, particularly in pressing for our own medal; recognition by the media as a legitimate service organisation and the formation of our National Servicemen’s Memorial Band. As well, the Association is putting a case to Canberra to be given a chapel and surround land at Wacol as a memorial garden and State Headquarters. However, no organisation will survive if its members don’t want to contribute either some of their time or money. Our recent art union to help raise funds for running the Association saw a total of 400 books of tickets returned without a ticket sold or not returned at all. That’s income of $4,000 your Association didn’t get. Some branches sold almost every ticket, some sold none at all. That’s very disappointing, to put it at it’s most charitable. The call for volunteers to sell raffle tickets at the recent Broncos game against Western Bulldogs saw an equally poor response, particularly as the proceeds go to help the 50th anniversary celebrations in July 2001. Your National, State and Branch officials put in many hours of voluntary work to keep the Association going and even when some of their costs are reimbursed they still did deep into their own pockets for phone calls, petrol, faxes, letters and travel. Your membership fees, purchases of merchandise, art unions and other fund-raising activities finance your N.S.A.A. the Association needs YOU to keep going If your only active support for the Association is to appear on ANZAC Day, there will be no N.S.A.A. Colin Bell Queensland President

PAGE 6 THE PADRE’S CORNER. G’DAY EVERYONE. Greetings to you all and as I write this article I hope that everyone is coping with how things are in our world today. It is unbeliev- able that the coronavirus is still a real problem through our world. My prayers and thoughts are with you all regularly, as a group, and personally for those whom I know real well. Please stay safe and do what we are supposed to do. No matter what our kids and the new generation think about us -- WE ARE AWESOME !!!! Our Lives are LIVING PROOF !!!!! To those of us Born 1930 -- 1955: First we may have survived being born to mothers who may have smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant. They took aspirin and bex, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from the tin and didn’t get tested for diabetes. Then, after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in our cots covered with bright coloured lead-based paints. We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, locks on doors or cupboards, and, when we rode our bikes, we wore maybe a cap or hat, not helmets on our heads. As infants and children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, no booster seats, no seat belts, no air bags, bald tyres and sometimes no brakes. Riding in the back of a ute on a warm day was always a special treat. We drank water from the garden hose and not from a bottle. We shared one soft drink with four friends, from a bottle, and no one actually died from this. We ate cakes, biscuits, pies, white bread with real butter and bacon. We drank homemade soft drink made with real white sugar. And we weren’t overweight. WHY ?? Because we were always outside play- ing - that’s why !! We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on. No one was able to reach us all day --- and, we were OKAY. We would spend hours building our billy- carts out of scraps and then ride them down the hill, only to find out that we had forgotten the brakes. After crashing into the bushes a few times, we learnt to solve the problem. We did not have --- Play Stations, Nintendos and X-boxes. There were NO video games, No 150 channels on cable, No video movies or DVDs, No surround- sound or CDs, No cell phones, No personal computers, No internet and No chat rooms WE HAD FRIENDS and went outside and found them !! We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth, and there were no law suits from those accidents. We would get spankings with the wooden spoon or strap or switches or ping-pong bats or just the bare hand, and no one would call Child Services to report abuse. We ate worms, and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever. We were given slug guns on becoming a teenager and maybe a 22 rifle at sixteen, we rode horses, made up games with sticks and tennis balls, and -- although we were told it would happen --- we did not put out very many eyes. We rode bikes or walked to a friend’s house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked with them. Sporting teams had tryouts but not everyone made the team. Those who didn’t get picked had to learn how to deal with disappointment. Imagine that !!! If YOU are one of those born between 1930 and 1955, CONGRATULATIONS !!! You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up before the lawyers and government regulated so much of our lives for our own good. While you are at it, send it to your kids, so they will know how brave and lucky their parents were. Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn’t it ?? For those who prefer to think that God is not watching over us Read this and pass it on if you think it has merit. If not, then just delete it --- no one will know that you deleted it. BUT, if you discard this thought process, don’t you ever dare sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in today. I believe what I’ve written here is for you and may God bless you all “REAL GOOD” Also feel free to make contact with me at anytime. 0408 457 931 or [email protected] I am only an old Nasho from Wacol’s First Intake, 1956 who wants to serve you, wherever and whenever I’m needed, if possible. I would like to thank those who have made contact with me. God bless you all for now and in the days that lie ahead. Thomas S. Andrews, OAM. (State Padre).

PAGE 7

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

1/701620 ANDERSON, John Anthony Dwight Wacol, 1/1952 Innisfail 1/702459 BERRY, Robert Charles Wacol, 1/1952 Townsville A116190 BORG, Orlando Francesco Lorenz Amberley, 1/1956 Beenleigh Logan A112123 BRISKEY, John Bruce Garbutt, 1/1952 Unattached 3/723432 BRITTAIN, Thomas Puckapunyal, 1/1955 Gold Coast North 1/724090 CORICA, Giuseppe (Joe) Wacol,1/1957 Townsville 1/707973 DWYER, Timothy Oliver Wacol, 2/1953 South Burnett 1/703174 ERHART, George Joseph Wacol, 2/1952 Toowoomba A110024 GEORGESON, Keith Ernest Archerfield, 1/1951 Caboolture 1/708172 GREEN, Thomas Henry Wacol, 1/1953 Toowoomba 1/713141 GUNDER, Morthem Raymond Wacol, 3/1954 Rockhampton 6/7044567 JACOBS, Cyril Kevin Brighton 3/1955 (Innisfail) 1/726221 KEARNEY, Gerard Michael Wacol, 4/1957 Townsville 1/721965 LEE, Edward John Wacol, 2/1956 Townsville 1/706128 LINNETT, Herbert Arthur Wacol, 1/1953 (Tableland) 2/719205 LOVELOCK, Frederick (Brian) Holsworthy, 1/1953 Cairns 2/721301 McAULIFFE, John Dennis Holsworthy, 2/1953 Bundaberg 1/727580 McDONALD, Joseph Beattie Wacol, 2/1958 Mackay 1/721970 McINERNEY, Kevin Vincent Wacol, 2/1956 Townsville 1/721968 MOORE, James Henry Wacol, 2/1956 Townsville A114115 NUTT, Maurice (Morris) Amberley, 1/1951 (Townsville) 1/726866 PAIGE, Leslie Gorge Wacol, 1/1958 South Burnett 1/725445 RICHARDSON, Michael James Wacol, 1/1957 Bayside 1/729021 SIMPSON, Keith Lindsay Wacol, 1/1959 Toowoomba 1/709309 STIRLING, Robert Charles Wacol, 3/1953 Stanthorpe 1/712343 TESTA, Rosario (Roy) Wacol, 2/1954 (Stanthorpe) 1/709220 WELLS, John Wacol, 3/1953 Mackay

LEST WE FORGET THEY SERVED AUSTRALIA

LOOKING AFTER FELLOW NASHOS

We are all familiar with Poppy Services for members of our Branch, but what of others. In Townsville we read the obits in the Bulletin and, if any persons in our age groups are listed, we check the nominal role and, if a Nasho, we contact the Funeral Director who will contact the family to ascertain if they are aware the deceased was a Nasho and if they want a Poppy Service. Most say yes. Even if they don’t want a Poppy Service at least we complete a Change of Particular Form to advise Branch for notation on Nominal Roll.

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 6th January Folding Date Friday 29th January

BAYSIDE: (Meeting 1st Tuesday of each month at 1030 hrs at Wynnum RSL, Tingal Road, Wynnum.) Bayside are back and fully operational. We’ve had three meetings since lockdown and everyone was excited to be together and exchange news. Pat Dunne straight away organised an adventure for the branch, and off we went on an overnight trip to Gympie. We called in to the Ginger Factory at Yandina on the way, lunch at the Gympie RSL and a BBQ dinner at the motel that evening. The next morning saw us rattling along the railway track to Amamoor and back. Great fun and wonderful outing for Nashos. On the same outing were fellow Nashos from Bribie Island and we were able to chat to some of them. If anyone has been to Gympie and not had a look at their war memorial, next time you go, take the time to have look. Bayside members said a final farewell on 16 October to one of our mates, Michael (Mick) Richardson. He was a foundation member of Bayside, a committee member for many years and also merchandising officer who masterminded our badge selling for a considerable length of time. Mick always lent a helping hand with every activity, whether it was badge selling, sausage sizzles at Bunnings or just helping a mate. A true Aussie and Nasho, he will be greatly missed. Bayside still have a number of members on the sick list and we all wish them good health and stay safe. Our Secretary/Treasurer, Pat Dunne has done (!?) it again. In August he was awarded the National President’s Award for eminent achievement and meritorious service to the Scout Movement. This is the highest award given in scouting, Pat being the only Queenslander to receive it this year. Congratulations Pat, and we are proud of your achievements. Branch Contact: Secretary Pat Dunne 07 3396 8723 BEAUDESERT: (Meetings 1st Monday of even months 1030hrs. Venue: Beaudesert RSL Function Room) With the easing of the COVID-19 restrictions in August we were able hold our first general meeting since our AGM in March, all our Nasho widows were invited to share lunch with us following the meeting. We were pleased to have Alex Garlin, Tony Stevenson and Neal Freier from the SMC with us. The photo L to R shows Tony Stevenson, Neal Freier, Brian Buckby, Cr Michael Enright, Phil Johns and Alex Garlin at the meeting. Our delegates attended the State AGM at Wacol on 12 September. Our committee decided that in future there would be lunch following our general meetings. Our October General Meeting had about 40 attend and enjoy lunch and social activity with us. We received a grant from DVA for Veterans Health Week, organising a social day on 2nd November with lunch at our RSL Club following our committee meeting. Our members attended the Remembrance Day service in Beaudesert on 11th November. Our last activity for 2020 will be our Christmas luncheon on 7th December. We are looking forward to a better year in 2021 following our AGM on 7th February 2021. Wishing all our Nasho mates a healthy and prosperous year in 2021. BEENLEIGH-LOGAN: (Meeting: 4th Monday each month (Feb to Dec) at 1000hrs. Venue: Beenleigh RSL). Owing to a health situation within their correspondent’s home, there was no input into the August Nasho News for Beenleigh/Logan. There was very little happening branch wise, warranting any report! Due to COVID there has been very little socialising as we use the Beenleigh RSL, we are under the government health regulations regarding numbers and spacing so the RSL will enforce these guidelines.

PAGE 9 We as a branch would like to thank Carol Strachan for her term as Functions Organiser; Carol has had to resign along with her husband Forbes whom was vice president, due to health reasons. A job well done by both of you and a very big “THANK YOU”! Branch badge selling has been cancelled for this year as the risk of COVID is so much more for senior persons and we all fit that category! We shall be welcoming a new member joining us via transferring from another branch. We welcome you warmly and the members look forward to meeting with you in person. Our resigning Functions Organiser, Carol is finishing off with one last for the year. The branch Christmas Function at the Beenleigh RSL on Monday. 14th December. It will be great to get to see our fellow Nasho’s in person! Seeing as this is the last publication before Christmas. Beenleigh branch wish all other branches and Nasho’s a Happy and prosperous Christmas and New Year and hopefully the COVID thing is going to reduce enough for the border issue is scaled down so Australians can get on with life. Stay safe and healthy as or as age will allows folks. Branch Contact: Secretary - Ph: 07 3200 3517. BRIBIE ISLAND: (Meeting: 1st Tuesday each month at 1130 hours. Venue: - 46 Cosmos Ave., Banksia Beach). Our Branch has now resumed regular monthly get togethers. We attend the monthly “Meet and Greet” at the Bribie RSL and have renewed our friendships with the members of the Sub Branch. In September we took a coach to Secrets on the Lake in Montville where we enjoyed the beautiful surroundings on the Lake and viewed the gallery and wonderful wood carvings. We enjoyed a great 2 course lunch and some had coffees and some had wine. A good day was had by all. We had planned for a long time to go to Gympie to travel on the Mary Valley Rattler and we finally were able to achieve this great experience in October. The Mary Valley Rattler is a wonderful steam train experience with authentic carriages which travel through the beautiful Mary Valley. The return train trip takes about 3 hours and stops at Amamoor before returning to Gympie where we enjoyed lunch on the platform of the historic Gympie Railway Station. We were thrilled to see another group of Nashos on the train also and enjoyed chatting with them to discover they were from the Bayside Branch. A great opportunity to meet with them and swap ideas on future day trips, etc. Some of our members require wheel chairs and we are pleased to have access to special large coaches from Kangaroo Bus Lines who have installed lifts and special chain down areas in the coaches which enables these members to enjoy our outings that they have previously missed out on enjoying. We have received grants from DVA to celebrate social connectivity for Health Week and have two day trips planned at a time in which the theme “social connectivity” is of prime importance. We offer our congratulations to our Vice-President Elizabeth Schilling who has recently celebrated her 80th Birthday. Happy Birthday Betty. Branch contact – President John Price – 0439 287 747. BRISBANE NORTH: (Meeting: 1st Sunday each month 1000 hours. Venue: Kedron Wavell Services Club). Our branch newsletter has been our main line of communication with several committee meetings over the Covid period. Many phone calls have been made to members. President Dave Burgess called a meeting in October to update the committee and to look forward to the end of the year. He gave a report on the Association’s AGM, Christmas function and memorabilia sales for Remembrance Day. It was decided we would not be doing the memorabilia sales. A Christmas function would go ahead with limited numbers where 6 Nashos would receive their OBE’s. Nominations for next year and dates set for events in 2021 were discussed .We are all looking forward to a “new normal” so we can get back to regular meetings. The photo shows President Dave discussing the future program with Supporter’s Chair, Marlene Faulkner. Branch Contact - Secretary Trevor Koks 07 3261 2688. BRISBANE SOUTH: (Meeting: Last Sunday each month 0930 hours. Venue: Runcorn Tavern). We resumed having our monthly meetings on 30 August after consultation with our venue resulting in a good rollup. No outings planned other than our Christmas party, with plans going ahead with the hope it will be able to happen. We’ll miss our Remembrance Day sales as at this stage our venues will be unavailable. For those of us who were able to attend the Wacol AGM, the photo shows Rowland Williams Memorial Trophy recipient and Branch Secretary Len Ramsay holding the award being for dedicated service, achievement and most outstanding contribution to the Association for the year.

PAGE 10 Even though attendance at the meeting was low, which was to be expected, but as usual some good things were achieved and we finally had the chance to endorse our 2020/21 SMC team. Looking forward to a great 2021 as things move back to a more normal pace. Branch contact: Len Ramsay – Branch Secretary – 07 3209 5541. BUNDABERG: (Meeting: 2nd Saturday of the month 1330 hrs. Venue: Bundaberg RSL Board Room) Hi all. September meeting was again conducted with reduced numbers but hopefully when COVID-19 is sorted we may be able to get some more members to our meetings. The photo shows Branch resident Mick Harvey (L) and Michael Walker (R) Project Officer attached to Cadet HQ Enoggera at the recent Bundaberg District Women Veterans 75th Anniversary of the Victory in the Pacific in World War Two function. Michael Walker was a Queensland Nasho who served in Vietnam with 4RAR/NZ, the first tour of the Kiwi Battalion in 1968-69. Our happy travellers bounced out of social isolation with this coach trip to the Noosa wetlands during October 2020; a great time was had by all who attended. The Branch also would like to pass on our thanks to SMC for providing Welfare funds so that the members can continue to be socially active throughout the district. Subsidised luncheons will also re-commence in the near future. Stay healthy!! Mick Harvey, Publicity Officer. Branch Contact: Secretary Brian Trost 07 4151 3485. CABOOLTURE and DISTRICT: (Meeting 2nd. Monday each month 1030hrs for 1100hrs start. Venue Sports Central Caboolture (previously RSL).) The branch opted to divert from normal practice, and convened its September G.M. as a Meeting plus lunch affair at an “outside” venue, namely the Woodford R.S.L. Sub-branch’s premises. It proved to be an outstanding success, made especially so by the hospitality and camaraderie shown to us by Sub-branch members, staff and volunteers. We were even “entertained” by the proceedings at the cattle sale yards next door! Rather fortuitously for us, this meeting/lunch outing – initially planned for the August meeting – was deferred for a month. On the eve (Sunday, 13th. September) of the meeting, management of the Caboolture R.S.L. premises changed hands, with the club then being closed down for a fortnight so as to enable renovations to be made. More recently, a chatty busload of 26 happy travellers departed Caboolture R.S.L. for Ferryman Cruises’ boarding site at Banksia Beach, Bribie Island for a 2-hour Captain’s Lunch cruise along Pumicestone Passage. A running commentary during the cruise enlightened passengers with an insight into the history of the surrounding district. We were informed that, when Matthew Flinders surveyed the area in his sloop HMS Norfolk, the passage was shown as a river; an abundance of pumice stone littered the shoreline. As an internationally significant wetland – we spotted a dugong and a cavorting pod of dolphins - much is now protected under the Ramsar Convention. Lunch was served at the halfway point near Little Goat Island just offshore from Donnybrook township. It proved to be an enjoyable day on the water. Thanks go to Carmel Tunstall who kindly provided the accompanying on-board snapshot. Branch Contact: Secretary Graeme Marlow (07) 5498 8037). CAIRNS and DISTRICT: (Meetings 2nd Thursday each month at 1030hrs Venue: Upstairs at the Cairns RSL boardroom.) Due to the COVID-19 restrictions limitations were placed on the numbers able to attend the August commemorative services at the VP Day, Rocky Creek, and the Vietnam Veterans Day, Far North Queensland, with socialising less constrictive. Cairns members gathered for morning tea at the Cairns RSL after our August General Meeting. At the September General Meeting an OBE was presented to Kevin Jeffs by president, Pat Galwey. An OBE was also presented to Charles Reich while he was recently on holidays in Cairns. On 29 September, Cairns and Innisfail Branch members travelled to Babinda to do battle for the Ted Herbert Lawn Bowls trophy with Innisfail taking home the honours, winning 24 – 15.

PAGE 11 Thanks to the Babinda Bowls Club. After the sad loss of our previous patron, Lou Piccone OAM, Cairns branch welcomed Jeff Pezzutti, local respected identity and 1954 Nasho as our new Patron. Jeff expressed his honour and gratitude at being invited into this position and the photo shows Jeff being presented with his Association tie by President Pat Galwey. Our Branch hired a bus to travel to Cardwell for the unveiling of a new NQ memorial on Sunday 25 October. President Pat Galwey laid a wreath on behalf of the Branch. 2020 has been a tough year for many people. Let us hope and pray for a happier, safer and prosperous 2021. Merry Christmas to you all. Branch Contact: President Pat Galwey Ph 07 4045 1667.

CORAL COAST BOWEN BRANCH. (Meeting 2nd Sunday each month at 1030hrs. at the Rose Room, Cunningham Villas, Tollington Road, Bowen). Branch President Terry Hansen and Treasurer Ailsa Hansen travelled to Townsville on 25 October and joined the bus going to Cardwell for the unveiling of the National Service plaque at Coral Sea Battle Memorial Park. Before the ceremony commenced, Terry spoke about how he had served with four of the Nashos from the Bowen and Collinsville area being recognised on the day. One of them Corporal Norman James Womal MID, a 1951 to 1959 indigenous Nasho went on to join the Regular Army and was KIA in Vietnam in 1966 while serving with 5RAR. They have since commented that as six Branch Presidents came together on the day is probably a great achievement, considering the distance. The memorial itself is very impressive and a living tribute to those departed. Branch Secretary Edna Sanderson, Phone 47861527.

GLADSTONE: (Meeting 3rd Wednesday of month at 1300hrs: Venue: Rocky Glen Hotel) Hello to all members and supporters as this year, like no other, draws to a close. After a break of several months, meetings resumed in September preceded by our monthly social lunch at the Rocky Glen Bistro, all within COVID guidelines and social distancing. The positions of Vice President and Welfare Officer were not filled at the AGM earlier in the year. (Pre-COVID. It almost seems like another life) Following nominations, Noel Bowley (VP) and Evaline Hunt (WO) have stepped up and accepted nominations for these positions. Our annual Christmas in July function was unfortunately, another casualty of COVID-19 restrictions along with badge selling for Anzac Day and Remembrance Day in public retail outlets, where possible changes tor COVID-19 guidelines made planning and organising these events even more problematical than usual. The 54th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan was observed on August 18th with a service at Anzac Park. During the ceremony, VP Noel Bowley placed a wreath on behalf of the Branch where we were well represented. Following the service, we joined with the local RSL members for drinks and a light lunch. Members also joined in the Remembrance Day service on November 11th at Anzac Park. A decision will be made at the 18th November meeting for our Christmas breakup/party. The format for this year may be a little different. Who would have thought at the beginning of this year we would have to spend periods self-isolating at home, only venturing out for essential items, due to this COVID-19 virus. This much slower pace of life has given us time to reflect on and appreciate our ancestors. After all, they had to survive previous pandemics in years gone by, albeit without the aid of social media. Priorities may change and we shall cherish family and friends even more in the future. Christmas wishes to all from Gladstone branch members and supporters as we say goodbye to 2020, leaving you with an “Irish Christmas blessing” May you be blessed with the spirit of the season which is peace, The gladness of the season which is hope, And the heart of the season which is love.” Branch contact: Val Buchanan, 0409766141.

PAGE 12 HERVEY BAY: (Meeting: 4th Wednesday every month 1000 hours. Venue: Hervey Bay RSL, 3rd floor.) We are facing many new laws and regulations with this CORVID Virus, like everyone else. We must learn to adjust. Our RSL Sub Branch has cancelled the wreath laying ceremony for Remembrance Day due to the amount of people who now reside in Hervey Bay and the logistical problems it would have caused not only to the participants but the public as well. This also means we cannot sell our “Pins and Badges “from Bunnings for Remembrance Day. We the NASHOS will be doing our own driveway Remembrance, a la ANZAC DAY. Here in Hervey Bay, we have a set of projects for our members to focus on and it’s all for the betterment of the Branch. We will have had our Annual Charter/Supporters/Widows Lunch by the time this edition comes to print. To celebrate our Re-forming 5th Anniversary, we invited the State President and State Vice President to the lunch on 29 October. We have now renewed our monthly meetings at the RSL, abiding by the rules. It is good to see familiar faces again. Our meetings were closed from March till August, and we know some members are still being cautious, they are being kept up to date via our Newsletter. As this is the Last News till after Christmas, Everyone KEEP SAFE and hope to see you next year. Contact President Brian 0467 642 730 or Secretary Ray 0427 799 971. INGHAM: (Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of the Month 1800 hrs. Venue: Ingham RSL.) There has been a slow re-entry to Branch Monthly Meetings although the meetings have been well attended. The only Nasho function of mention has been the Ingham Vietnam Veterans Day on 18 August which was not as well attended as in past years; another COVID-19 casualty. Nevertheless our Branch was well represented at the Ceremony as shown in the photo L to R. President John Pearson, John Piotto, Patron Rick Butler, Alf Di Bella, Vice President Franco Pugliuso and Secretary Maurie Filei. The National Police Remembrance Day, generally a public function was cancelled this year. However, the Halifax Police Station held a Ceremony in the hamlet of Halifax and as sometimes can happen our Branch President, John Pearson, (legends are made from unlikely stories such as this) found himself in attendance through the good auspices of the Halifax Ambulance and Staff. Members were delighted to hear that our Branch was represented at the ceremony. Plans are well in hand for the upcoming Nasho events in the area. Nine members travelled on the Townsville Nashos Bus for the opening of the Cardwell NQ Nasho Memorial on 25 October in Cardwell. Members also attended the Ingham Remembrance Day ceremony. Our annual Christmas function will be held at the Ingham Bowls Club on Tuesday 8 December at 6.00 pm. I would also like to take the opportunity to wish all members of the SMC and all Branch members, all the best for a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Branch contact: Secretary Maurie Filei. Phone 07 4776 1752. INNISFAIL BABINDA TULLY: (Meeting: 4th Tuesday each month 1800hrs. Venue Innisfail RSL). Our Activities Officer, John Wakefield organised an enjoyable trip for twenty eight members and supporters on Tuesday 15 October. We drove to the Atherton Tableland with stops at Millaa Millaa for a wonderful smoko, followed by a visit to the local history museum. It was then on to Yungaburra Hotel for lunch in their beautifully restored ballroom with timber and glass a feature. The photo shows the main object of the trip being to visit the Avenue of Honour which is a tribute to those killed in the Afghanistan conflict. This is always a very moving experience. A few continued to Rocky Creek, the site of a the largest WWII military hospital in the Southern Hemisphere. Six members attend the FNQ Tri-Branch meeting at Little Mulgrave where John Hardy reported on the annual general meeting of the Association. The discussion included the Northern Branches Get-Together at Cardwell’s of the Coral Sea Battle Memorial Park on 25 October when Alex Garlin will unveil a plaque to commemorate all NQ Nashos who lost their lives during their NS commitment.

PAGE 13 Our branch has one such young Nasho, William (Bill) Henry McDonnell who died of meningococcal on 15 September 1952 during his time at Wacol. This is recorded on his headstone at the Innisfail Cemetery. A Babinda bowls tournament between Cairns and our branch at Babinda was hotly contested on Tuesday 29 September; this branch being victorious. A small committee of ladies has been formed to organise a Christmas Luncheon at the Innisfail RSL on 5 December. With COVID-19 restrictions, functions have had format changes but thankfully we are still able to enjoy the social interaction. Branch Contact: Secretary, Margaret Saunders 0428 612 770.

REDLANDS: (Meeting: 1st Sunday each month 0945 for 1000 hours start. Venue: Gallipoli Room, Redlands RSL once we can meet as a group again.) The restrictions imposed to control the COVID-19 outbreak have made our activities difficult but not impossible. We have been able to hold a very successful Branch Meeting, in spite of a requirement limiting attendance to a maximum of 72 in the room. With the co-operation of the 71 members attending, all conditions were complied with. Redlands RSL restaurant benefited from the large number of members who stayed on after the meeting either for lunch or drinks. Our meeting differed a little from usual; not only because of the applicable COVID-19-19 restrictions, but also because of the long break since our last meeting. Committee members have been quite busy planning and adjusting branch activities. A word of appreciation to Bruce Reedman who has diligently kept up the availability and assistance to branch members during the break, particularly in the sad and sudden loss of friends. Members enjoyed an outstanding lunch last month and another on 19th October. Our ever-popular Christmas function now follow. At our branch meeting it was decided to take out life subscribed membership for all of our eligible members and supporters. While it is indisputable that many of us are in an age group which would make the financial benefits to the members questionable, the branch believes that there would be benefits to the Association and hopefully less work for the administrators. Let’s think positive and get our value from the investment. Eric Shaw, President. Branch Contact: Les Warner, Membership / Development Officer, 07 3821 2894 Mobile 0450 577 186. ROCKHAMPTON: (Meeting: 4th Wednesday of each month. 1000hr for 1030hr start. Venue: Frenchville Sports Club) President John Aitken and wife Glenda, together with several other members, recently attended the 75th Anniversary of the end of WWII commemorative dinner organised by the local Gracemere RSL branch. As shown in the photo R to L, hosts for the evening were RSL President Steve Robinson and his wife Rhonda and Branch President John Aitken wearing his 1940’s coat. John reported how attendees truly appreciated the significance of the gala event when a number of local WWII veterans were honoured on the night. Unfortunately COVID-19 restricted the numbers who could attend….a disappointment for many from both Branches. A recent coach tour of local fresh-water fishing spots brought back fond memories for many. A BBQ luncheon provided once again by the Gracemere RSL brought a happy conclusion to the day. Our members celebrated Remembrance Day this year at a service organized by the Rockhampton Regional Council at the magnificent John Leak VC Memorial. The memorial is located on Huish Drive adjacent to the Fitzroy River. Following the service members will lunch at the adjacent Rockhampton Sports Club. Branch contact: Secretary John Phillips. Ph: 07 4928 1017 / 0418739113.

PAGE 14 SUNSHINE COAST: (Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of the odd month at 1000 hrs. Venue: Maroochydore RSL) Well 2020 is drawing to a close. Let’s hope 2021 is COVID free and we can all get back to normal. We have tried to hold as many events as we can under the circumstances and have tried to keep in touch with as many members as possible. The picnic at Golden Beach was a lovely day and VP day at Drysdales Funeral Chapel, Nambour was a really good turnout. Lots of memories from 2 ex-servicemen of their time spent during WW2. The Scottish Piper made the service a stirring event. Our next meeting should be on Tuesday 10th November. Hoping we can hold it at Maroochydore RSL and catch up with friends again. Our Christmas lunch will be held on Tuesday 8th December at the craft beer Malt Shovel Taproom Sunshine Coast at Birtinya. Cost is $30 per head and numbers are restricted. Please contact Glenda Weidner on 0428 565 897 if you would like to attend. As this is the last newsletter this year may we wish all Branch Members a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. Branch Contact Ted Weidner Ph. 0428 565 897. TABLELAND: (Meeting: 2nd Sunday of each month at 1000 hours. Venue: Nasho’s shelter at the Rocky Creek War Memorial Park). For Vietnam Veteran’s Day on 18 August, Tableland services were held at Atherton, Malanda and Mareeba with Branch members attending all ceremonies. John Hartley organised the Atherton cenotaph service at 10am. John Hardy spoke on the significance of the day, laying a wreath on behalf of the Branch. A sausage sizzle followed at the new Atherton RSL which opened on 7 September. The Building cost $1.3m towards which the Tableland Branch donated $1,000 and the Cairns Branch $500. Ironically, no financial support has been forthcoming from the State RSL. Nine members travelled down to compete in the NSAA Innisfail Inter-Branch Rifle Shoot at Kurrimine Beach on Saturday 22 August. Innisfail marksman Lorrie Calleja regained the Nasho trophy from Tableland Patron Ray Byrnes who won the trophy last November. Congratulations to our Kevin Plummer who came second in the competition. Our time and effort in submitting 4 grants applications has paid off over the last 12 months. We have received a total of $16,000 for on offer including DVA Veteran and Community Grants 2019-20 for bus trips, a Veterans Health Week activity and a DVA “Saluting Their Service” Commemorative Grant. Further Pine Rivers National Servicemen’s Ltd. has provided a grant of $3,200.00 for Australian War Animals plaques already installed at Rocky Creek for unveiling on VP Day 2021. On the social calendar, four Branch bus trips are underway for the remainder of 2020. We visited Mossman including a Daintree River cruise on Wed 28 August. On 25 October, 21 members travelled to the NSAA NQ Cardwell Reunion and unveiling of the Nasho memorial. For Veterans Health Week on 28 October, the day commenced with presenters at the Atherton RSL, progressed to Tolga Historical Society and Museum followed by lunch at Carrington Hotel. The progressive lunch moved on to Shaylee Strawberries on Marks Lane for sweets. The photo shows how the day concluded with a visit to the new Six Degrees Gym and Bouldering Atherton with members waiting for a turn to climb the wall. The final trip for the year is on 25 November, this being a Savannahlander rail motor trip (Mareeba to Mutchilba) then by bus to Dimbulah for smoko and lunch. Tolga Historical Society and Museum as custodians of our Pte Joe Ramsay Memorial Vietnam Collection were recipients of a $1,000 donation in September. A Christmas Party is being planned for Wednesday 2 December at the Millaa Millaa Hotel. Merry Christmas to all. Branch Contact: Secretary Terry Edmondson Ph. 07 4095 4154.

PAGE 15 TOOWOOMBA: (Meetings: Odd months, 2nd Tues 7:00pm; Even months, 2nd Sun 1:00pm; Venue: Irish Club Hotel (Meals available before meetings). Major features of Nashos include provision of welfare to members and looking after your mates. These features were particularly borne out during the pandemic. Although there were no meetings till recently, the lines of communication were still strong. Our first social lunch after many empty months was very well attended. The branch laid wreaths for Vietnam Veterans Day and for the remembrance of the fallen at the Battle of Milne Bay (25 August – 7 September 1942) being the first major battle of the war in the Pacific in which Allied troops decisively defeated Japanese land forces. Toowoomba has a strong connection with that defending Army force. Many locals were in that force, 25th Infantry Battalion (Darling Downs Regiment). The branch never forgets the widows of previous Nasho members. Accordingly, amongst other connections, we held a Sunday Widow’s lunch on 25th October in their honour. We also look forward to the 70th. Anniversary ceremony of National Servicemen’s Day next February; more of that later. Remember “Life is like a grindstone. - whether it grinds you down or polishes you up, depends entirely on the material you are made from.” Branch Contact: Secretary Phone 07 4633 2564. TOWNSVILLE: (Meeting: 2nd Wednesday each month 1930 hours. Venue: Townsville RSL.) No doubt, we have all been effected by COVID-19. With a hot spot declared for the western suburbs in Brisbane, Secretary Ian and Vince Crowley reluctantly had to cancel our flights to attend the State Meetings at Wacol. It has also effected attendance at the Christmas Party in December, cut from 115 to 85 and tables reduced from 10 to 8. Just as well the President broad shoulders. The next thing we will have to worry about social contact will be Nasho Day 2021. Twenty seven members from Coral Coast, Townsville and Ingham travelled to Cardwell on the 25 October for the unveiling of the plaque on the National Service Wall in the Coral Sea Battle Memorial Park by State President Alex Garlin. Vice- President, Tony Stevenson OAM read the Ode of Remembrance. We joined members from Tableland, Cairns and Innisfail, Tully and Babinda. Thanks to Cardwell groups who organised the venue. The photo shows Branch Treasurer Maurie Degiovanni saluting following placing a floral tribute. The virus has also put a dampener on Remembrance Day Badge selling. We have limited ourselves to three venues over two weekends and mainly using held over stocks. Branch Contact: Secretary Ian Kuhl 07 4778 2313. RSL NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S RSL SUB BRANCH (INC): (Meeting: 2nd Sunday each month except May which is the 3rd Sunday at 0900 hours. Venue: Norman Park Sports and Community Club, Norman Avenue, Norman Park.) We have been unable to hold our Anzac Day, Vietnam Veterans Day or Remembrance Day services this year because of the COVID-19 restrictions. The majority of our members being over 80 being a high risk group. Our home for meetings at Norman Park Sports Club and Community Club has also had problems this year. It is hoped this will all be sorted out very soon and we can get back to have our meetings there in 2021. We have been holding our meetings at a number of different venues, resuming our meetings in June after missing the April and May meetings. The photo was taken after we set up the Memorial gardens ready for our Remembrance Day Service 2019. The Howizter was repainted and replaced for the service. Mr Mark Cash, Mr Earle Jennings and Band Leader of the Nastional Servicemen’s Pipe and Drums. Contact. Ms Cheryl Smith 0407643334. If you have any enquiries.

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

WACOL SUPERVISOR The SMC is seeking a younger person to take on the role of Wacol Supervisor. The main role is to inspect all the facilities at Wacol on a regular basis, to ar- range for necessary maintenance; be available to give access to contractors into the property; and liaise with PNGVR Museum and Forest Lake RSL staff. The Supervisor is a member of the State Management Committee and expected to attend meetings of the Committee.

LEASE OF WACOL HERITAGE PRECINCT Our Patron, Councillor Angela Owen, arranged a meeting for Alex Garlin, Tony Stevenson OAM and Neal Freier to meet with Brisbane Lord Mayor, Andrew Schrinner. The meeting was positive and the Mayor accepted our invitation to visit Wacol. He visited the Precinct on 22nd September. The difficulty has been that Council does not have guidelines to suit our situa- tion and an Act may have to be amended. The good news is that we are not paying water rates that have been expensive.

EDITORIAL We are often asked ‘why members pay their annual subscription to State body’ – the answer is simple – when one applies for membership of the ASSOCIA- TION, one is applying for membership of the State body, not a Branch. In fact the original charter document stated that members were assigned to Branches. At General and AGM Meetings, members attend as individuals not representing a Branch. Now, that will put the cat amongst the pigeons.

The members of the State Management Committee and staff wish all members and families a safe and joyous Christmas and all the best for 2021, without COVID-19. Two views of the Caretaker’s Hut at Wacol. One shows the state of the building when the Forest Lake RSL Sub-Branch occupied the building on 1st January 2020. The other is a recent photo of the building. Note the ramp for easy access. The bus is stored under cover behind the chapel.

NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S ASSOC (QUEENSLAND) INC. NEWSLETTER POSTAGE PRINT POST P.O. BOX 7014 HOLLAND PARK EAST PAID QLD, 4121 PP10000/3661 AUSTRALIA