AIR MAIL ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION

“Fostering the Spirit of Friendship and Perpetuating the Honour and Ideals of Her Majesty’s Air Forces”

X June / July 2017 Print Post Approved: 70 years a member Cynthia’s PP100017557 Monty Jeffrey joined RAAFA at the end of adventurous life WWII and has been a member ever since. Cynthia Lyall served in the British He moved to the Merriwa Estate in 2008 Women’s Auxiliary Air Force during WWII, > WHAT’S and now lives in Karri and Tuart Lodge. which is where she met her Australian husband John. They have lived at AFME INSIDE PAGE 4 for 15 years. PAGE 7 Celebrating our first birthday Double celebrations A LARGE congregation at St Michael’s Church, Meadow Springs, celebrated the 15th Anniversary of the Chapel on 4 May. The church service was attended not only by the residents who make up the regular congregation, but also by the State President, Graeme Bland, his wife Judy and the CEO John Murray. First residents Terry and Sandra Residents and staff enjoyed the Faye Bell and Paula Pisani enjoyed Potter cut the cake carnival the photo booth We also welcomed representatives from the Mandurah and the Meadow Springs RAAFA’S Alice Ross-King Care Centre first birthday is much more than a milestone, The birthday celebrations included a Residents Branches and representatives celebrated its first birthday on 2 May. it’s an opportunity to recognise the hard presentation by CEO John Murray, as well from the local Mandurah Catholic, work of everyone who has been involved as fun in the form of a fairy floss machine, Anglican and Uniting Churches. Staff and residents at the stylish and with its success over the last 12 months. Mr Whippy Van, guessing jars, and carnival modern centre celebrated with a carnival- It also gives us a chance to look towards style fun booths. There was also a violinist, Special guest was the Dean of St theme party, which included speeches, the future and our home continuing as the choir and music by the Air Force Brass Band. Boniface Anglican Cathedral in Bunbury, games, music, entertainment, special guests, happy and supportive place that it is, for the Very Reverend Darryl Cotton who and a BBQ lunch. years to come. The Alice Ross-King Care Centre’s first gave the address and celebrated Anglican resident, Terry Potter gave a speech on Eucharist. Facility Manager, Helen Falkiner, says the Aimee Curtis, Allied Health Coordinator, behalf of all of the residents which summed first anniversary included a whole range of said the celebrations went very well. things up nicely: “I take this opportunity to Revd. David Oxley conducted the service birthday celebrations for residents, relatives thank the staff who bought us in and looked and afterwards, with the Dean, cut the and staff. “All the staff got involved on the day after us so well throughout the year,” he said. Anniversary cake. dressing up in the carnival theme and our “Our first birthday was a fantastic residents thoroughly enjoyed themselves. We “I also congratulate those who had the Many people went on to lunch together opportunity to acknowledge the tremendous had a troop of clowns, ringmaster, weight vision and skill to conceive, build and in the RAAFA Club, and David Oxley amount of work which has taken place over lifter and sheriff,” she said. manage the centre. The architecture is great was presented with a surprise birthday the past year to make the Alice Ross-King’s and the management has done a terrific job cake for his 85th birthday. Care Centre the comfortable home that it “The entertainment was a hit, especially in terms of running this home; thank you has become to so many people,” she said. the last act, Barry Gee, who the residents to all of the staff for the care you have given watched while enjoying a Mr Whippy soft us.” “For everyone here at RAAFA, the Alice’s serve.” Bomber Command – 75 years old A SUNSET Service celebrating the 77 Squadron (RAF) out of Fullsutton, 75th Anniversary of the formation England. His memory represented the of Bomber Command in 1942 55,000 plus Bomber Command personnel was held at the State Flame of killed during WWII of which 3,486 were Remembrance on Thursday, 20 Australians. April as part of the ANZAC series. P/Off Blair and his crew were shot down The ceremony featured memories over Germany on his 4th mission on 16 June of RAAF Pilot Officer Robert 1944. Blair of West Leederville who Lest we forget. flew Halifax aircraft with No LtoR David Oxley and Darryl Cotton AIR MAIL From the cockpit The State War Memorial Dawn Service Costs incurred by the WA Division have Membership and clubs was huge as were the crowds for the increased significantly, including the March. It was just a pity that the RAAF National capitation fees. A letter has gone Thankyou for sending in your thoughts to Association contingent only had about 25 out to all members explaining the rise. Still, my questions on Club use and Membership. people marching. Hopefully that figure will the Annual Dinner is at a bargain basement It was good to get some positive feedback on improve for next year. For those who did price so I encourage you to make use of it. record. participate, no matter where, thank you. DVA transition Korean War veterans RAAFA Annual Dinner The CEO and I attended a briefing at The ‘Ambassador for Peace’ medal has been Sorry we had to defer our Annual Dinner DVA Perth on the changes DVA intend to officially released and will be available for until Thursday 15 June but the State make to improve their services for veterans. Korean War Veterans or their next of kin. Executive thought it worthwhile to wait and They have already relaxed the non-liability Further details can be obtained from get Sir Angus Houston AK, AFC (Ret’d) assistance for former ADF personnel Peter deMasson, President, RAR former Defence Chief as our Guest Speaker. with cancer, tuberculosis or mental health Association on 0458 200 168 or email disorders. Further assistance can be obtained Seating is limited to 220 so you will need [email protected]. from Advocates at [email protected]. By Graeme Bland to get in quickly before tickets are sold out. We have kept the cost at $45 per person Upcoming events IT HAS been a busy couple of months, and they are available from your Estate ADVOCATE Training and particularly with my involvement in the • RAAFA National AGM, 14 June 2017 Office and Head Office at 2 Sleat Road, Development Program (ATDP) • RAAFA Annual Dinner, 15 June 2017 Pension and Advocate Centre, helping Applecross. veterans get their entitlements. Some members of the Bull Creek Veteran • Vietnam Veterans Day, 18 August 2017 Support Centre have been recognised under I have recently visited several Branches and RAAFA National the ATDP Scheme, which replaces the hope to catch up with the remainder over Representations To be able to maintain appropriate Training and Information Program as of 1 the coming months. It is satisfying to see the governance, succession and gain eligibility July 2017. Our Division was represented by the State social activities that have been organised and for a Deductible Gift Recipient status for Executive at the following: that more people appear to be participating Advocate and Welfare training will now taxation purposes the RAAFA National • AAFC Branch luncheon; and enjoying themselves. Remember the require 10% formal training, 20% Council intends to become a Company • RAAFA Amity Village Albany visit; catch-cry “Act, Belong, Commit” is vital for supervised training and 70% on-the-job Limited by Guarantee. • Erskine Grove visit; a healthy life and it is equally important for training. • RAAF Pearce No 246 Pilots’ community life and unity, besides providing WA Division is ensuring our Division’s Our biggest problem is finding mentors for Graduation; an opportunity to get out and make the interests are protected. whom the Ex-Service Organisations are now • Wireless Hill ANZAC Ceremony; most of this extended autumn. All National Office bearers retire at the responsible. • Perth Dawn Service and AGM on Tuesday 13 June and an election ANZAC Day In the coming months we will be losing March; of National Office bearers for the coming many of our existing Pension Officers and • Fremantle ANZAC Dawn Service; Another ANZAC Day has come and gone. year will be conducted at the National AGM Advocates, but fortunately six people from • Perth Bomber Command Sunset Attendances around , on 14 June 2017. our last TIP entry level course in late May Service; in the main, were reported as large, which are interested. • RSL Unit and Kindred Meeting; bodes well for 2018, the Centenary of the Membership fees • ANZAC Service at Hampton High If you know anyone who would be war to end all wars. It is ironic that the School; Sorry folks but it’s ‘Budget’ time and interested in helping former and serving media and North Korea have us on the brink • ANZAC Service at Comet Bay College; the Division Council have made the ADF Members get their entitlements, of another conflict even though we are still • 15th Anniversary of St Michael’s hard decision to put the annual RAAFA please ask them to contact me at dealing with the problems of the Middle Church, Meadow Springs. Membership fees up from $55 to $66 (inc [email protected]. East. GST) for the first time in ten years. Don’t forget to ‘Stay on your Feet’

RAAF Association (WA Division) Inc. 2017 Annual General Meeting

By Ron Onions available from the State Secretary received no later than 2.00pm, Friday, 4 members unable to attend a meeting may and signed by the Candidate and the August 2017 by the State Secretary, Head lodge a Postal Vote on any Notice of 9.30am, Saturday, 28 October 2017 Members proposing and seconding. Office, 2 Sleat Road, Applecross. Motion and therefore voting papers will Langley Hall, AFA Club, Bull Creek be sent to all members eligible to vote. Registration commences at 8.30am The Candidate must be a RAAFA Vacancies on Division Council will be Member entitled to vote. Nominations State Secretary – two year term. Returning Officer Notices of Motion must be accompanied by a brief Curriculum Vitae not exceeding 300 Voting Procedure The Division Council will appoint the Notices of Motion must be with the words and a current photograph which Voting papers for Motions and the Returning Officer to supervise the ballot State Secretary, Head Office, 2 Sleat will be utilised for promotional purposes. for the vacant Division Council position Road, Applecross, before 2.00pm, Friday, Division Council Election will be sent to all eligible members under separate mail and for the counting and custody of 7 July 2017. The nominee must carry out Due postal vote papers. Diligence with the State President and out. Division Council Nominations Chief Executive Officer before the Postal Voting Nominations for office are to be in nomination will be accepted. writing, using the Nomination Form Division Council nominations must be As per Item 10.4b of the Constitution,

Page 2 AIR MAIL June / July 2017 Royal Australian Air Force Association CEO’s perspective

to the needs of the organisation. RAAFA three vacancies with all three units currently expression of the service that has been has grown from $30M to $60M per under refurbishment in readiness for a new provided by veterans in the defence of annum turnover and from 420 to 600 staff resident to move in. Australia. The museum was built in the in the same period. early 1970’s mostly from funds raised by The current waiting list for Bull Creek is volunteers. We have conducted benchmark analysis 700 and we do not have any additional through a national organisation that looks accommodation at this stage that we can A review of the structure of the Museum at the proportion of corporate costs in the provide to these people. The next proposed is about to be undertaken, primarily to aged care and retirement living sector across development is in the consultation process determine whether the existing buildings Australia where the average percentage of with residents at Bull Creek. The proposal will continue to be used in their current corporate service costs are approx. 12.9%. is to rebuild the existing AFA Club and form. This is the first step of a broader RAAFA is currently 8.6%, 50% below the provide serviced apartments above to the review of the museum’s capacity to increase CEO, John Murray average across Australia. We continue to level of five storeys. Not only will this displays and ensure the safety of the By John Murray monitor all of our costs to find the best provide a modern community clubhouse artefacts we currently have. As such the way to achieve maximum benefits. amenity for residents, but for all RAAFA museum precinct is to be treated as a major THE year is again flying along with the members. project to ensure that it has the capacity early chills of May starting to be felt. There is very good news for those who and is modernised to suit the needs for the are living on our estates. When we seek The housing development proposed to take next 40 years. to reduce the costs of the organisation place above the clubhouse will be focussed Budgets we negotiate very hard when it comes to on a serviced apartment model, with We will need to lobby State Government, Lotterywest and others to seek their The last two months for the RAAFA major expenditure items like gas, electricity, smaller units where additional services can support to develop the museum to a more Division Council and Executive team has insurances and telecommunications. be provided over and above the provision modern standard. We know for example been focussed on the management of of housing. This would be things like The residents on our estates are now in a that the roofing on the south wing needs budgets with a projected $60M+ revenue cleaning, catering, laundry services and care. position where they have access to free calls replacing and that we need to update or this coming year. The majority of these apartments will be to mobiles, local and national landlines two bedroom with ensuite and separate provide better air conditioning for visitors Requirements to ensure the management for one monthly fee of $16.50, which toilet and of a smaller floor size than the and volunteers, who are an integral part of of 600 staff have been challenged with the equates to $198 per annum. This not only previous development of Orion and Mirage the museum’s success. Federal Government’s previously announced provides access to telephones but with the Terraces. This will also make them more $1.2bn cut in aged care funding this introduction of fibre optics on our sites, affordable. Volunteers Week financial year, which in real terms equates access to other services such as cable TV, to approx. $600,000 in lost revenue from internet and ATV services. By comparison, There is a large demand within our This week is Volunteers Week and I am our residential care services. This, against to get a similar package through Telstra community for the provision of additional continually humbled by the efforts that our the context of a requirement to fulfil our “home phone pinnacle package” it would services between the existing independent volunteers put in to provide services to the previously negotiated salary increases for be costing our residents $85 per month or retirement living and the residential care broader community in which they live. our care and nursing staff of 3% has $1,020 per annum. In addition, we have facilities. In the past, there was provision This ranges from driving the buggies created a net negative start to our budget negotiated reduced rates for international of aged care hostels, known as low around our estates to transport residents, negotiations of $1.2M. calls for those who wish to call overseas. band facilities, but these are no longer The additional benefit of this agreement being funded by the Commonwealth. to the bus drivers who take residents to The team has worked towards a balanced is that the telephone costs of the business The expectations are that people utilise the local shopping centres and on broader budget against this negative background services at RAAFA will also be significantly community-based services until it is no trips, gardeners, people who deliver mail and I personally thank all of the team and reduced, which also reduces our Corporate longer feasible for them stay in their own and assist with Air Mail. The Aviation staff who have contributed to managing Services costs. home. It is clear this is not only a need at Heritage Museum volunteers who, without this financial challenge. Bull Creek, but across all RAAFA estates their assistance, the museum would not be open for seven days each week all but Development and we will be looking at what these Corporate Services charge options may be. for four public holidays each year. Those The Division Council as part of its who collect bread from local bakeries and Of course it’s not only RAAFA that has strategic planning endorsed the Executive distribute to the residents. to face these budget impacts as aged care Aviation Heritage Museum team to continue to look at developing To all of you who in some way, small or providers right across Australia face the additional homes because we have a The Aviation Heritage Museum at Bull large, contribute your time to support same challenges. It is often questioned by significant number of existing members Creek is an icon of RAAFA and represents others and the organisation, I sincerely members, as to the cost of the Corporate seeking accommodation. A good example the history of both civil aviation in Western thank you and wish you continuing good Services of RAAFA. It has certainly of this is at Bull Creek where we have only Australia and more importantly an ongoing health for the coming year. increased over the last four years to respond

Royal Australian Air Force Membership fee increase Association DIVISION Council has reviewed RAAFA Division/Membership services area it was • opportunity to participate in 2 Sleat Road, Applecross WA 6153 Membership fees in parallel with budgeting resolved to increase fees to $66 (inc GST) commemorative ceremonies; Telephone: (08) 9288 8400 for the 2017-2018 financial year, and from for all new memberships and for annual • access to short stay accommodation for Fax: (08) 9311 4455 1 July 2017 will increase membership fees renewals for the forthcoming financial year. visiting family and friends (available at Email: [email protected] from $55 (inc GST) to $66 (inc GST) per We hope you will continue to support three locations); year. RAAFA by continuing as a member and Web: www.raafawa.org.au • Aviation Heritage Museum free entry enjoying the benefits outlined below. RAAFA last increased membership fees for members; Editor: Jane Donald in 2007, and as of April 2017 had nearly • access to RAAFA clubs at four • Air Mail newspaper, published bi- Enquiries: Julie Stearne 4,600 card-carrying members. Whilst locations; monthly; and inflation has, in recent times, been very low, Email: [email protected] • social and reunion activities; • opportunities for involvement in the over the whole time period, inflation, and • service pension and disability claim organisation through a wide range of therefore the costs of membership services, assistance (for serving and former volunteer activities. See page 11 for have risen significantly. submission deadlines members of the ADF and their In order for us to cover costs in our dependents);

June / July 2017 AIR MAIL Page 3 AIR MAIL

After spending a short time in training at On 11 April 1917 the fateful order was given The Blackboy Hill, Rollo and his Battalion left to break through the Hindenburg Line and for Egypt. They were young and full of capture Bullecourt. The resulting battle left Padre’s Piece excitement at where they found themselves 3000 Allied soldiers dead and 1170 taken because the majority of them had never prisoner. Rollo was severely wounded and left Australia before. Free from the normal died on 13 April in the Reserve Lazarette confines of society, facing imminent danger Verdun Hospital. were pleased to welcome students from and with money to burn they wanted to Frederick Irwin Anglican School who were experience all that Egypt had to offer - and His parents were initially told he had been our flag party. in April 1915 he was sent to the Venereal injured and taken prisoner. There are in existence letters that indicate how anxious the In introducing the ceremony I recounted Diseases Hospital in Malta for treatment. family in Mandurah was but it was several the story of a very ordinary young man Four months later he rejoined his unit and months before they learned of his death. who came from Mandurah. His name was was sent to Gallipoli. He was wounded ROLLO MONCRIEFF MUIR. He was shortly afterwards and evacuated to England This is a typical story of the ANZACs we actually born in Southern Cross in 1892 to recover. It was while in England that he remember each year. Sure there were some and his father worked on the goldfields as an met Kathleen Spary and they were married great outstanding examples of valour but assayer. in June 1916, but they could have little time ANZAC Day is not the day to remember the battles of intrepid, fearless warriors but At the turn of the century the family moved together. We do know he absconded from his it’s the day to remember the ordinary, young, to Mandurah. Rollo with his two brothers base in October probably to see his new wife, By Padre David strong, enthusiastic, full of life, young men William and Hugh went to the Dalrymple and that he had his pay docked. who went to their death in the service of their School, the first government school in FOR ANZAC Day the three RAAFA On 16 January 1917 he joined the 4th nation and for the peace of our world. Mandurah. By 1914 Rollo and his brother Branches here in Mandurah asked me to Division in France. At this point Germany Hugh were working as railway firemen in conduct our ANZAC ceremony and wreath had established the fortified Hindenburg Line As I concluded last time: Lest we forget Perth. The outbreak of war was an exciting laying at the Meadow Springs Memorial Wall. stretching from the North Sea to Verdun in time for these young men and being so fit Shalom The ceremony was timed for 8.30am and was France and the French town of Bullecourt Rollo was immediately accepted as a private well attended. The weather was good and we was behind the enemy lines. in the 16th Battalion’s D Company. Your Division Councillor Monty Lindsay Lane Jeffrey

LINDSAY Lane was elected to Division He played rugby KARRI and Tuart Lodge resident Monty Council in 2016. and soccer, Jeffrey was born on 5 October 1924, and representing his other than stints overseas during the war Lindsay completed a Diploma in Material State at squash, years, has lived in Perth ever since. Management (B.Comm Management) at athletics and Monty joined the RAAFA at Pearce in Natal Technical College and after a B.ComM swimming. He 1942 and soon after was posted to the Degree majoring in Financial Management was the manager Ballarat Wireless Air Training School. Upon and Economics from University of South for the Springbok completion of his training Monty was Africa. Junior Biathlon Lindsay Lane posted to Bomber Command in England. Team (running and Lindsay worked for a multi-national Monty Jeffrey company, Federal Mogul as Logistics swimming). Monty went on his first bombing raid on 16 August 1944, the first of 23 missions, many in the community throughout his life. As a Manager for 17 years amongst other Lindsay lives at RAAFA’s Cambrai Village, of which were embarked upon from Snaith youngster, he was a member of Cubs, Boy positions. In addition he lectured part time and became involved as a volunteer in events airfield. Scouts and the City Amateur Swimming for Damelin College in Durban, was made set-up and the annual fete. He joined the honorary life member of the Institute of Club. Residents Committee as Vice President and “I’m very thankful I survived,” says Monty Purchasing South Africa and Chairman of President and was the Chairman of the who was called up to enlist when he was just Monty played both tennis and squash the Natal State Branch. Commemorations Committee. 18 years old. “People still don’t realise, war until the late 1980s and served on various is a terrible thing. committees. His other love for many years was helping to build wheelchairs for kids “I suppose those missions could have been overseas through the charity Wheelchairs for Annual fete a success thought of as terrifying experiences, but Kids in Wangara. we were only 18 or 19 years old and didn’t THE Cambrai Annual Fete was held on – one visitor said “what a happy place it was know any better, but there are things that Monty moved to the RAAFA Merriwa Sunday, 2 April this year. We traditionally with everyone having a smile on their face”. you always remember that you really don’t Estate in 2008 and now lives in Karri and hold the fete in October, but because this wish to at times.” Tuart Lodge. clashed with other Fetes in the district the Funds raised from the Fete are mainly used Fete Committee decided to try something to provide subsidies for residents to go on An outbreak of chickenpox aboard the Recently he was presented with his 70 year different – and all in all were very pleased day trips; attend the Annual Christmas Durban Castle, the boat he returned on after RAAFA membership certificate, something with the outcome raising in excess of Dinner; support the Commemoration the end of WWII delayed Monty for a few he is very proud of. Committee for ANZAC and Remembrance days before he could actually set foot on $12,000. Following the end of WWII Monty Day ceremonies, purchase DVDs and books home soil. Residents and families contributed by for the Library and providing those little returned to Australia in 1946. On being donating items for the various stalls, extra luxuries we have come to appreciate. Having been a book salesman before the demobbed and handing in his equipment including cakes, preserves, pre-loved resalable war, Monty continued his career in sales he saw a stand asking all returning RAAF goods, scones for the Devonshire Tea, books, working for amongst others JH Wilberforce servicemen to join the RAAF Association. and plants. In all we had 15 stalls including and Co, selling Simpson Washing Machines, He did not know why, but it just seemed like the all-important sausage sizzle with the and Cecil Bros where he was in charge of the the right thing to do. recording of stock, sales records, invoicing smell of cooked sausages and onions wafting So after 70 years of membership, sharp as and photography for over 100 stores over the estate. a tack but maybe a little unsteady on his Australia wide. On the day over 80 residents volunteered pins, Monty received his certificate from the their time on the various stalls, which added Monty finally retired on 25 May 1990. State Secretary, Ron Onions and Division to the community atmosphere in the village Councillor, David Peet. It’s fair to say that he was fully immersed Page 4 AIR MAIL June / July 2017 Royal Australian Air Force Association Three generations march at ANZAC Home sweet home IT’S fair to say that McNamara Lodge resident Bob Porteous is a West Australian WHEN Mary Richards spent close to three Many decades on - and two grown up through and through. years in the Air Force’s equipment section at daughters later - Mary and Bob now call Pearce Air Base, it felt like she had around RAAFA Estate Meadow Springs home. The 95-year-old was born on 11 February 500 big brothers. “We’ve been here for 17 years now and love 1922, and is still active enough to march in it,” says Mary. this year’s ANZAC Parade with his family. “I loved it,” recalls Mary, who joined the Air Force when she was 17 years old. “I looked “We love the atmosphere, the friendship and “It was the first time the three generations had marched in the ANZAC parade, so it was after all of the equipment, so any servicemen the comradery, in fact everything about it,” special for all of us,” said Bob who marched who wanted anything for their section had she laughs. proudly alongside his son and granddaughter. to come through me.” Bob joined up for WWII at ANA House on Mary, who was born in Stonehouse in St George’s Terrace. In 1943, he undertook Scotland in 1939, emigrated to Perth his training at Clontarf and went on to Bob Porteous when she was 10 years old on the ship The Mount Gambier where he learnt navigation Georgic. skills. and working for BP, a company with which he “We arrived in Fremantle and moved to had a long career from 1954 to 1976. He was then shipped off to England via Manjimup where I went to school until I Panama, to a place called Mildenhall near “I still go to Squadron reunions every year in left at age 14,” says Mary, who won prizes Cambridge, where he joined 622 Squadron. , and I’m hoping to go over during for her skills at Highland dancing when she From there, Bob was mostly a navigator on June,” he says. was a youngster in Scotland, and in fact was Lancaster’s, predominantly on exercises in junior champion for two years. the UK, although he did fly out to Japan on “War is bloody terrible, and it’s not Unsurprisingly, Mary went on to meet her transport work. something you really want to talk about, but remembering those who lost their lives is husband while she was in the Air Force, but Bob was demobbed in Sydney in 1949, where really important.” had to leave when she and her husband Bob he spent four years before returning to Perth got married in Manjimup on 17 October 1959. “We settled in Maylands, but moved around Easter bunny visits quite a bit because of Bob’s job as an instrument fitter,” she says. We were in South A VERY cute little Easter bunny could be Australia for two years, then Williamtown in seen hopping around the Club at Air Force for 18 months and then Mary Richards Memorial Estate on Thursday, 13 April. we had three years in Malaysia. She distributed eggs to delighted residents at the Club dinner-dance. Knight of Nights THE RAAFA WA Division Annual Dinner of the Joint on 15 June 2017 will be honoured to have Agency a Knight of the Order of Australia as guest Coordination speaker, Sir Angus Centre Houston AK, AFC (Ret’d). (JACC) which was Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK, located in AFC (Ret’d) was awarded the Knight of Perth to the Order of Australia in January 2015 for coordinate extraordinary and pre-eminent achievement the Australian RAAF ASSOCIATION and merit in service to Australia, through Government’s Sir Angus Houston distinguished service in the Australian support for ANNUAL DINNER Defence Force, continued commitment the search into to serve the nation in leadership roles, missing Malaysia Airlines MH370 in 2014. Saturday, 15 June 2017 particularly the national responses to the He finished his work with the JACC in Come and enjoy an entertaining evening, catching up with old and new friends. MH370 and MH17 disasters, and in a July of that year when he was appointed as variety of roles in the community. the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy to lead We are pleased to announce our guest speaker is Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston Sir Angus joined the RAAF as a cadet pilot Australia’s efforts to help recover, identify AK, AFC (Ret’d), a widely-respected individual across Australia. Retiring in 2011 after 41 in 1970 and spent the early part of his and repatriate Australian’s killed in the years of service in the military, during which he was Chief of the Air Force and Chief of the career flying UH-1 Iroquois helicopters, Malaysia Airlines MH17 disaster. Defence Force. Macchi MB-326H and Strikemaster aircraft. Sir Angus is currently Chair of several The evening will begin with a welcome reception at 6.30pm, He assumed command of No.9 Squadron large organisations and serves as a member followed by a two course dinner, with wine. in 1987 to introduce the Black Hawk on a number of different boards. Along helicopter and the transfer of the unit to the with this he is patron of various charitable Thursday, 15 June 2017 at 6.30pm for 7.00pm, in Langley Hall, AFA Club, Bull Creek. . organisations and was recently announced as Tickets $45 per person Sir Angus was appointed as Chief of Air the new Chancellor for the University of the Includes pre-dinner drinks, two course dinner, table wine, tea and coffee. Force in 2001. In 2005 he was promoted Sunshine Coast. Dress: Men - lounge suit. Ladies - after five wear. Miniatures may be worn. to Air Chief Marshal and appointed Chief RAAFA is honoured to have Sir Angus Create a table of 10 or we can organise for you. of the . He served as guest speaker for our Annual Dinner. as Chief of the Defence Force until his Tickets $45 available from your Estate Tickets available until Wednesday, 7 June 2017 retirement in 2011. Office or Head Office Applecross. from Estate Offices and Head Office, Applecross. Call 9288 8400 for details. Sir Angus is well known to Western We look forward to sharing the evening with Estate buses will be provided. Australians from his appointment as head you. June / July 2017 AIR MAIL Page 5 AIR MAIL Jewel in the Great Southern ACCORDING to residents, RAAFA Amity interactive, safe community, where people boast that there are Village Albany is the perfect place to retire, share similar values. no old people at particularly for those who want to remain Amity – everyone is active and engaged. Beautiful homes, and Amity Village Estate Manager, Irene Smith, young at heart. There gardens, with wonderful facilities such as the said the Amity residents make the most is a strong focus on gym, heated swimming pool and welcoming of their retirement and are very much well-being and a clubhouse; however the main attraction at enjoying this phase of life in their beautiful happy balanced life. our village is the welcoming community surrounds. Residents have the choice to be People look out for spirit. as interactive and as involved as they wish, as each other, as well as well as being actively involved in the Albany respecting each others Located on the corner of Ulster Road and community and enjoying their own privacy. space and privacy.” Retirement living at Amity Village is like North Road, the Village is conveniently “We’re extremely fortunate to have such being on a cruise ship – you put your feet situated close to a range of shopping The estate offers a range of spacious two up, relax and enjoy the ride. Join in the options and amenities, including Albany an active, vibrant community which is so and three bedroom units. In addition, friendly and inclusive,” she said. activities that interest you, enjoy the social Regional Hospital which is only five minutes the village has a range of on-site facilities, interaction, soak in the beautiful surrounds, away. “Anyone who lives here will tell you that including the communal clubhouse and enjoy good company, as well as the solitude there is a range of very popular social BBQ area, library, hairdresser, visiting doctor of your own space, not worry about a thing Home to over 130 residents, Amity attracts surgery, workshop, arts and craft room, active seniors who thrive on living in an activities happening throughout the week and love the comforts of your own beautiful which residents enjoy being part of. We swimming pool and gym. home. Making the move Familiar faces up the Botanical Art group, which “WE’VE never looked back since attracts between five and 16 residents moving into this community, it’s been each week. very good to us and we have a dream manager in Irene, she is just wonderful,” “I’m a botanical artist and I taught says long-term resident Fay Wych. at Albany Summer School for a few years, and each week I really Fay and her husband Bob moved into enjoy giving a hand to the ladies Amity Village Albany in May 2006 and helping them create a beautiful and, it’s safe to say, they have well and painting. truly immersed themselves into the community ever since. Ron and Marion Denney “There is so much going on that you soon know everybody by their first name.” “We pretty much know everyone, and WHEN 80-year-old Marion Denney we know where everyone lives,” laughs Marion says the decision to move into and her husband Ron, 82, came to live at Fay, who has lived in Albany all of her Bob and Faye Wych Amity was made as her husband Ron’s RAAFA Amity Village Albany, it was the life. first move they’d made in 61 years. medical problems increased and the couple and Fay, who celebrated their 60th wedding felt they needed to be closer to support “There’s so much to do, there’s the gym and anniversary earlier this year. The couple, “We moved to our farm in Cranbrook just services, just in case. pool and there’s lots of activities happening who have three children, four grandchildren after we were married and we stayed put,” each day. We enjoy the casserole teas once and two great-grandchildren, met when Fay “Ron is full-time in a wheelchair now and explains Marion, who recalls the first time a month and also the catered meals which worked in a boot repair shop in Albany. Bob we’ve had the inside of the house made she saw her husband-to-be, he was riding a are also monthly,” adds 81-year-old Bob, was working as a fireman at the time and wheelchair-friendly, in addition to having horse at the Kojonup Agricultural Show. who was born in Fremantle and is proud to kept popping into the shop to buy shoe laces the curbing changed so that we had flat announce he feels as ‘fit as a fiddle’. - even though, much to Fay’s amusement, he “Making the move was a huge thing for us, access outside the house,” she says. actually had elastic sided boots at the time! but we visited Amity to have a look at what “Outside the village there is also plenty to “Ron is still able to get out and about it was like and that’s the advice I’d give to do, including golf, which I play twice a week. “If I had any advice for people thinking though, and does a lap of the community anyone thinking about entering retirement Amity is just a really lovely place to live, about making the move to Amity Village, I’d every morning in his wheelchair; everyone living themselves - basically to go and spend especially if you want to get away from the say just come in and see for yourself, have a speaks to him and vice versa, it’s a really time there and see if you like it.” hustle and bustle of the big smoke,” he says. chat with people who already live here and friendly village and we’re very happy to be see what’s on offer, you’re certain to love it,” Since moving to Amity Village in September here.” Congratulations are actually in order for Bob last year, Marion has been pivotal in setting Fay adds. Feeling safe and secure RAAFA Amity Village Albany resident Joan Since moving into the village, a decision problem either. Webster is the first to admit that living in the that was made largely due to her husband’s RAAFA community was an incredible help deteriorating health, Joan has found it easy “And on top of that, if anything goes wrong when her husband Rex passed away three to remain active. She exercises every day in and you need a handyman for example, or years ago. the pool, is involved in the social club, plays a gardener or assistance from the Welfare cards regularly and takes part in the monthly Officer, these people are all around on site to “It definitely helped me, because so many casserole dinners. step in and lend a hand.” people have been through the same thing,” says Joan, who has lived at the village for “I love the fact that everyone is extremely Joan, who was born in and around seven years. friendly, but equally, no one intrudes into moved to WA’s southwest in 1962, says she your private life,” she says. also feels very safe at the RAAFA community. “The beauty of Amity Village is that it’s big enough to be home to plenty of people, but “It really is the perfect situation, because if “Right from day one I felt very secure and small enough so that you can get to know you want company you can have it, but if safe here and I’ve also made lots of friends, I everyone.” you want your own space, that’s not a love it,” she says. Joan Webster

Page 6 AIR MAIL June / July 2017 Royal Australian Air Force Association A different adventure for Cynthia RAAFA Air Force Memorial Estate resident movements on the map in the middle of “One of the boys caught wind of it and Cynthia Lyall’s experiences of WWII are the table, while the controller stood up on a they came and bombarded us with toilet a little different from that of many of the platform watching. The instructions would paper from the air– all the trees around other members of the WAAAF WA Branch. come through my earphones from the girls were covered in toilet paper. We could have in another area passing on the information, been court marshalled for that! And I can’t Born and raised in the UK, Cynthia served and I would plot the movements of the remember if we even got a tan after all that.” in the British Women’s Auxiliary Air aircrafts. It was all very interesting,” she said. Force (WAAF), rather than the Australian John and Cynthia married in London and WAAAF. “That’s how I met my husband; he was an had their first baby, before he was posted Australian tail gunner at the next station. I back home to Australia. Despite coming from a naval family – always knew when he was flying, because I Cynthia’s father and her two brothers all would see it on the maps. We used to go out “I had to wait until our daughter was five served in the Navy – she was eager to go to dances, and he used to watch me dancing months old before I could travel. I came out against the family grain and instead join the with the American soldiers before he came on a war bride ship, full of mums and littlies WAAF. over and finally asked me himself. and there was one doctor on board who had Cynthia Lyall to cope with all that for six weeks,” Cynthia “I joined in 1943, as soon as I finished “We were all very young, and I think we all said. “I’ll never forget that – I didn’t know what boarding school when I was 18 years old. I thoroughly enjoyed our time. We knew we had hit me. You couldn’t get a countryside finished school and two days later I was in were doing a good job, and we never queried “Leaving my family behind was terribly more different from what I was used to,” she the WAAF,” Cynthia says. it. Every day was a new day.” sad. Both of my brothers had been killed in said. action during the war. One was serving on “I had a girlfriend who had an uncle who As was the case with many of the WAAF a submarine, the other one was on a cruiser. Cynthia and John have lived at Air Force was an airman, and he told her that he could and WAAAF ladies in the WA Branch, So when I married John and came out here, Memorial Estate for about 15 years now. pull some strings to get her into the WAAF, Cynthia and her friends worked hard but I’ll always remember my parents’ faces seeing Cynthia has been a member of the WAAAF and I asked her if he could do the same for enjoyed their downtime too. me off when I left on the train. At that WA Branch for many years, and also me.” point there was just my sister left with them regularly meets with other British WAAF “We lived in a billeted country home with in the UK.” ladies who now live in Perth. So that was that, Cynthia enlisted in the a flat roof, and this is the naughty part, but WAAF, where she trained and worked as a my friends and I used to climb up onto the When Cynthia arrived in WA, she spent “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being part of the plotter. roof and strip off and sunbake,” Cynthia only a few weeks in Perth before the family Australian group, and I always have yearly recalls. moved to Kalgoorlie. lunches with the WAAF ladies too. I’ve loved “I was the one whose job it was to plot every minute of it,” she said. Support a weight off Jackie and Andrew’s shoulders HAVING access to advocacy services Meadow Springs provided through RAAFA’s Pension and Advocacy Officer Graeme Bland has been like a weight lifted off the shoulders of Open Day Andrew and Jackie Skinner. Tuesday, 20 June, 1pm to 4pm It has been a long journey to access the THIS is your opportunity to take a guided right support services and compensation tour where you will experience the lifestyle since Andrew fractured a vertebrae in his you can enjoy at one of RAAFA’s most neck during a service-related incident while sought after estates. serving in the Navy as a Quarter Master Gunner in 1985. • Meet the manager and staff at Meadow Springs “In 1993 Andrew was discharged from the • Experience the warm and friendly Australian Defence Force after reaching the lifestyle community rank of Petty Officer in the Naval Police. • Walk through a wide range of 2 During the discharge process Andrew was bedroom homes on display sent to see a neurologist, who, unbeknownst Jackie and Andrew with Graeme Bland to us, recommended he be referred for an • Explore the fabulous resort-style MRI to investigate these ongoing issues, but “We had seen an advocate at Anzac House to leave it with him. He didn’t make any facilities and attractions this never came about.” who was helpful. He helped arrange for unrealistic promises because things can • Talk to residents about what life is Andrew’s injuries to be recognised under always go either way. But we came away from like at RAAFA However, Andrew was quick to secure a job both Acts, but this advocate then moved on that meeting with a glimmer of hope for the Come and see what could be your next and settle into ‘civvie life’. After five years from the RSL. first time in years.” home. For more information call he had to leave this position due to his 9582 5000 or [email protected]. worsening symptoms. “It became evident that we had to look Graeme helped put together Andrew’s into finding another advocate to help us, application, and with him by their side at Despite this Andrew was never without because we just didn’t know how to navigate the hearing, they successfully met with the employment, his condition however the way we needed to”. Jackie and Andrew Veterans Review Board to appeal the prior continued to deteriorate and back in 2001 were recommended to contact the Advocacy decision. he was granted a Gold Card from the DVA. Service at RAAFA, and subsequently met By 2010 it was clear that his injury was and worked with advocate Graeme Bland. Jackie said she and Andrew were ‘extremely seriously impacting his quality of life and, relieved with the outcome and it is such a in 2015, he was forced to stop working. “I can’t describe the feeling of relief hearing huge relief ’. He began the process of lodging a pension Graeme say ‘come in and we will have a chat about it’,” Jackie said. They were full of praise for the claim with DVA, but this was rejected and knowledgeable, sympathetic and supportive the couple were left with the only option of “We gathered all our documents and understanding they received through appealing to the Veterans Review Board. Graeme looked through them and said RAAFA’s Advocacy Service. June / July 2017 AIR MAIL Page 7 AIR MAIL

ANZAC Day 2017

RAAFA Amity Village RAAFA Amity Village Cambrai Village

Cambrai Village Erskine Grove Erskine Grove

RAAFA Estate Merriwa RAAFA Estate Merriwa RAAFA Estate Meadow Springs

RAAFA Estate Meadow Springs Perth Parade Perth Parade

Perth Parade Perth Parade Vivian Bullwinkel Lodge

Page 8 AIR MAIL June / July 2017 Royal Australian Air Force Association On Foreign Foam Love is all you need BY HIS own admission, John Bailey is lucky and Shore to be alive. By Pam Bevan “I often look back and think I should have been dead 100 times,” says the Gordon Lodge resident who is 96 years old, and THE rosemary hid its purple face; Larks ceased to trill considers himself ‘sharp as a tack’. The wind has given up its chase in the bitter winter chill Then rose a cold yellow dawn and bone-chilled to the core “I was a fighter pilot in the RAF and Platoons of Aussie diggers approached a distant foreign shore flew Spitfires and Hurricanes as well as And angels cried a flood of tears at what their fate may be Wellington bombers. In total I did one In boats afloat a blackened burning oil-slicked sea and a half tours of operation, which equals As they rowed on regardless with gallantry and pride around 76 operations,” recalls John, who was Towards Gallipoli with their allies at their side. born in Leicestershire in the UK.

They fought for a great country: they shaped our history “We bombed many different countries in As their bullet ridden boats sunk beneath a broiling sea Europe including Austria, northern Italy and John Bailey While mothers wept the loss of sons gone for evermore Yugoslavia. Often our target was railway Washed up on a tide of red on foreign foam and shore yards, and we flew from an airstrip on the doctor and vet, as my father was a doctor And amidst the stench of brave men lost, dysentery and lice Adriatic Coast which we shared with the and I had also done a pharmacy degree, so They carted away the bodies of so many sacrificed. Americans. locals came knocking on my door for just about anything.” “We were shot at from tall buildings as we And in the horror of the gullies, cliffs and blood filled trench flew just below the skyline, and also from John moved to Perth in 1966, and has lived They kept their spirits lifted in that awful graveyard stench the ground below. We were very lucky to here ever since. With loss of limbs and fallen mates in mud and whistling shell survive.” As shrapnel whizzed; and bullets zipped in that tortured battle hell “I absolutely love Perth,” he says, whilst Thousands they lay injured: rations there were few After the war John initially went back to reminiscing about also enjoying writing As under fierce resistance their casualties fast grew. England, but his best friend in the RAF poetry and singing. “I first wrote a poem was a young Tasmanian, and as things were when I was five years old, and I’ve actually And with grieving hearts in disbelief we try to understand bad in Britain - and his friend suggested won awards for my poetry during my The empty boot, a crushed slouch hat, a shattered wedding band he should take a trip to Australia - John lifetime, which is something I enjoyed very And men with thin and silvering hair march with pride and zest decided to make the move. After seeing much.” To honour mates so sadly lost and pinned across their chest where his best mate lived on 22 acres of Medals glisten; children stare ask the question Grandpa why? land, he recalls he thought he’d found So at 96 years of age, and having had what As hymns are sung mates greet mates, and speeches make us cry paradise. could arguably be labelled an exciting life, And we listen to the stories told about brave soldiers of our past does John have any tips for a life well lived? Then silently watch the Australian flag flap sadly at half-mast. John ended up living in Tasmania for over 20 years. He became a racing car driver and “Think young, is my advice, never stop built a number of cars, including a Maserati. learning and keep interested in things,” he Hear the prayers in the semi-darkness try to stem our tears says. “As you get older, I think you realise As silently majestically the pale pink dawn appears Although he had initially studied pharmacy, he retrained as a mechanical and electrical how little you know about life and the And as the bugles lone salute drifts to meet the sorrowed sky universe. We bow our heads in silence for those precious lives denied engineer, and owned his own garage for And somewhere who knows where? These soldiers sleep alone many years. “But at the end of the day, all that matters Lost in unmarked graves away from family and home “There was a sign up on the door that said: is love, we’re all brothers and sisters, we’re all And we commemorate their sacrifice; and their bravery will stay ‘Never worry, never fear, when in trouble, earthlings if you like, and I think we should Like seas that broil; and winter winds they’ll never fade away. John is here’”, he laughs. “I think that was never allow nationality or religion to divide because I was considered the local mechanic, us.” Remembering an original ANZAC

ALTHOUGH RAAFA Amity Village He was working as a horse driver in was transported to Port Said for Albany resident Nola Coventry’s father was Narrogin when he enlisted, his father treatment where he recovered one of the original ANZACs, she admits writing a letter of consent for him to join in the 14th Australian General that throughout her lifetime she never heard up. Completing his mandatory training Hospital at Abbassia. him speak of his time at Gallipoli. at Blackboy Hill, Fred proceeded to the training camps in Egypt and by September Fred was discharged in June 1917 “He was a quiet man who was devoted to his 1915 he was in Gallipoli, seeing action for and, after the war, returned to live family,” Nola recalls. “The 1920s were grim five weeks before being hospitalised with in Narrogin, taking up work with years because of the depression and I was illness. the WA Government Railways as the last of five children. But nevertheless, a fireman working on the Pinjarra my father believed education to be very Returning to duty, and with the campaign line. important and he made sure all of his moving to the Senai Peninsular, Fred’s unit children had a good schooling. was involved in an ill-fated advance on a He is remembered as a man with an acute awareness of civic Turkish garrison on 17 September, 1916. Nola Coventry at the Amity Memorial wall with “I was sent away to boarding school for eight responsibility - Fred and his wife Aware of the futility of the advance given a photo of her father years, I don’t know how he possibly afforded the Turkish stronghold and that military Frieda were very active in the it, but he somehow did and it’s something support units had failed to arrive, an order Pingrup community. I’m very grateful for.” which spanned over 30 years,” she says. was received to withdraw. Remembering her father, Nola recalls how Private Frederick Lloyd Martens served with he wasn’t too keen for her to embark on a Nola and her husband Brian have lived at Drawing heavy fire from the enemy, Fred Amity Village since 2004. “We moved into the 6th Reinforcements of the 10th Light received a gunshot wound to his left leg, nursing career. Horse Regiment in the Australian Capital the very first stage of the village when it shattering his tibia. With the wound “At first, my father didn’t want me to do opened, and we still think it’s wonderful Imperial Force, embarking at Fremantle for remaining undressed for three days, the the Middle East in June 1915. nursing, but I know he soon became very living here,” she said. injury turned septic and, critically ill, Fred proud of me and I loved my nursing career June / July 2017 AIR MAIL Page 9 AIR MAIL Notes From Branches and Groups Australian Air Force Cadets Meeting and included mystery raffle prizes as to bring a variety of agencies and suppliers of Tuesday, 20 June, Theme Night in the Blue well as the usual beautifully presented gifts. information suitable for seniors. Gum (Italian). (AAFC) Branch The change was well received and we thank Thursday, 15 June, RAAFA Annual Dinner, Friday, 7 July, Magic at Merriwa dinner. Charles Page those who donate prizes or money for the gifts. Langley Hall. Guest speaker Air Chief 9305 1582 or [email protected] The meeting was followed by a meal. Tuesday, 11 July, Movie Night. Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK, AFC Membership is open to former air cadets, and Thank you to those who completed the (Ret’d). Sunday, 16 July, Sunday Roast. all instructors and staff of the AAFC, Air questionnaire suggesting future trips or social Tuesday, 18 July, First Aid session. Monday, 17 July, Little Unique Clothing Training Corps, and Women’s Air Training events. Of the 154 questionnaires circulated, Boutique (winter collection). Corps. Former members of overseas air cadet we received just 15 replies. These responses Friday, 21 July, Branch AGM, all positions organisations are also eligible. have been collated and will be discussed at will be vacant. Tuesday, 18 July, Theme Night in the Blue Gum (Indian). The Branch carries out social activities, local next month’s committee meeting. It should Other proposed activities include, Mandurah tours, picnic/BBQ days, caravan/chalet be noted that our social calendar has been Performing Arts Centre - free performance of Monday, 14 August, Resident Branch AGM trips, rifle shooting, gliding, and publishes finalised for this year, but we will certainly the ‘Soft Shore Shuffle’ by the Barundi Peace – election of new committee. look at adding the suggestions to next year’s an informative newsletter. Branch members Band. Sunday, 12 November, Merriwa Annual Fete. also attend commemorations throughout the calendar of events. year, and liaise with 7 Wing AAFC at RAAF Early bird announcement - Christmas MER Branch Pearce. WRAAF Branch raffle Rhonda Mays Judy Bland The Branch conducts historical research, [email protected] and has recently presented two Honour Roll There will be a MEGA MYSTERY FIRST ANZAC Day Boards of cadets who died in service. PRIZE at the Christmas lunch this year. Tickets are $1 and go on sale at the June We had a very successful ANZAC Day Upcoming events Recent events include a picnic and tour Branch Meeting. Hilary will be selling the ceremony under the Spitfire with over 150 of Whiteman Park, a gliding weekend at Tuesday, 6 June, Fish and Chips Lunch in new tickets. Remember, the more tickets sold, people attending, followed by an opportunity Narrogin, and a rifle shooting practice and AFA Club, Bull Creek, 12noon, $12per the bigger the prize. to catch up with an ANZAC biscuit and a person includes dessert. Bookings Laeraine BBQ at Mundaring. cup of tea or coffee in Langley Hall. This is in addition to the normal raffle with 9306 2681 - Everyone welcome. Bring a For membership and other enquiries please the usual fantastic range of prizes. Tickets for gift for the raffle. PLEASE NOTE -NO contact Charles Page. High-tea those will be three for $1, and purchased on MEETING on this day. A successful high-tea was held on Wednesday, the day, as usual. Thursday, 15 June, RAAFA Annual Dinner, Upcoming events 3 May in the Orion Terraces meeting rooms. Langley Hall. Guest speaker Air Chief It was a great success and our thanks go to July, date TBA, 7 Wing Junior NCO Upcoming events Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK, AFC Graduation Parade, RAAF Pearce. Judy Bland who did all of the cooking. Thursday, 15 June, Branch Meeting, at (Ret’d). Saturday, 12 August, AAFC Branch AGM 4.00pm, followed by steak and ale pie, and Upcoming events Tuesday, 4 July, General Meeting followed and Luncheon, Wings Restaurant, Bull Creek. vegetables. Anyone with dietary restrictions, by Branch AGM, Meg Olive Room, 7.00pm see Lorraine to arrange an alternative. Thursday, 15 June, RAAFA Annual Dinner, 20-23 October, Caravan/Chalet trip, Taunton Langley Hall. Guest speaker Air Chief followed by supper and friendship. Park, Margaret River. Thursday, 13 July, Evening Casino Trip, Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK, AFC Tuesday, 25 July, Christmas in July, at 35 leaving estate at 3.30pm, returning at 900pm. Sunday, 26 November, Rifle Shooting, (Ret’d). Lakeview Drive, Edgewater commencing Cost $15 per person including dinner. Canning Vale. Friday, 30 June. A Night to Remember, in 12noon. Bring something towards lunch September, proposed trip Bentley Pines Langley Hall with entertainment by Paul - bookings and details from Laeraine Aviation Museum Branch TAFE. Watch for further details. Ewing who will take us down memory lane 9306 2681. Everyone welcome. with music from the 50s and 60s. A meal Jo Naylor Tuesday, 1 August, General Meeting, Meg Meadow Springs Residents’ will be available through the Club. Olive Room, 7.00pm, followed by supper and Volunteer thankyou Branch Sunday, 23 July, Tivoli Sunday Matinee - The friendship. Best of British. This is filling up fast. $20per Thanks to the generosity of a “volunteer Eileen Oxley 6-8 April 2018, National Reunion hosted person includes bus fare, light meal and the grant” from the City of Melville, Museum by WRAAF Branch WA, to be held in A successful fashion parade was held in show. Manager, John Park was able to put on two . Approximately 150 have registered early April. Our models did well exhibiting separate sausage sizzles, followed by coffee Friday, 29 September, A jazz band will at this time. Expression of Interest forms wonderful poise to display the garments and cake, as a thank you to the hard-working entertain us in Langley Hall, with a New available from Laeraine 9306 2681 or Judy supplied by ‘Mrs Joneses Boutique’. museum volunteers. Orleans style meal available. 9311 4401. A number of the Residents’ Committee and Our bi-monthly film nights are open to all Monday, 9 October, Wildflower Tour to Mandurah Branch members attended the AFME residents and friends and are proving Chittering Valley and visit the Bindoon Meadow Springs Primary School ANZAC to be very popular. Why not come along to Bakery. Get in early as there are only 40 seats ceremony. As usual it was a memorable our next one on 13 July? available. occasion with the senior students conducting Upcoming events the proceedings. Guest speaker Dave Mabbs, President of the Mandurah RSL, delivered Merriwa Residents’ Branch SUBMISSIONS Thursday, 8 June, General Meeting, 1.00pm, the address focusing on Mandurah’s ANZAC Joyce Johnson Mess Room, Aviation Heritage Museum. history. [email protected] FOR AIR MAIL Thursday, 15 June, RAAFA Annual Dinner. Our own ANZAC service at the Memorial It would be good if we could get together a wall was very well attended and appreciated. Upcoming events 7 July for August / September table for Museum Branch members. Note the It was lead by Reverend David Oxley, with Sunday, 11 June, Sunday Roast. 1 September for October / November date and get your tickets. the story of a young Mandurah ANZAC. Monday, 12 June, Resident Bi-Monthly 3 November for December / January Thursday, 13 July, Bi-monthly Film Night, The visit to Government House was enjoyed Meeting. 7.00pm, Meg Olive Room. and we had several who had not been before Tuesday, 13 June, Movie Night. Articles of interest are always gladly Thursday, 10 August, Branch AGM, 1.00pm, and were duly impressed. received and accompanying photos need Wednesday, 14 June, Bingo Main Hall eyes Mess Room, Aviation Heritage Museum. The bi-monthly Sunday movies, although to be of a high resolution. You are most down 7.30pm (every 2nd & 4th Wednesday attended by a few, are well received. welcome to submit prior to the deadline. Mandurah Branch of month) – 28 June; 12 July; 26 July. Upcoming events Please send articles electronically to Shirley Farmer Thursday, 15 June, RAAFA Annual Dinner, [email protected] in the first Later this year, we are planning, in association Langley Hall. Guest speaker Air Chief instance or via snail mail to Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK, AFC (Ret’d). We tried a new format at the April Branch with Tracey, our Welfare Officer, a mini expo Julie Stearne, 2 Sleat Road, APPLECROSS WA 6153. Page 10 AIR MAIL June / July 2017 Royal Australian Air Force Association

Bull Creek AFA Club Meadow Springs Club Merriwa Club Cambrai Club Phone: 9311 4460 Phone: 9582 5375 Phone: 9400 3640 Phone: 9304 5401

Trading Hours FREE WiFi Trading Hours FREE WiFi Trading Hours FREE WiFi Trading Hours FREE WiFi Bar Bar Bar Bar Tuesday and Wednesday, 4.00pm to 8.00pm Monday to Thursday, 9.30am to 6.00pm Monday, 10.30am to 2.30pm Tuesday 11.00am to 2.00pm Friday, 12noon to 2.00pm and 4.00pm to Wednesday 11.00am to 6.00pm Friday, 9.30am to 10.00pm Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10.30am to 6.00pm 6.00pm Thursday 10.00am to 6.00pm Saturday, 3.30pm to 6.30pm Friday night opening times may vary, contact Wednesday, 10.30am to 8.00pm Friday 11.00am to 9.00pm Club for details Specials Saturday and Sunday, contact bar staff. Saturday 11.00am to 6.00pm (Winter 2nd and 4th Friday, 5.00pm to 8.00pm Monday and Wednesday, Happy Hour closing time dependent on patronage) drinks, 4.00pm to 5.00pm Specials Closed Sundays and Mondays Specials Monday to Friday, morning coffee and Tuesday, best fish and chips lunch in town, Tuesday and Wednesday, Happy Hour, afternoon tea with muffins and cakes, $11.00 Lunches 4.00pm 9.30am to 5.30pm Wednesday, Chase the Ace, Bingo, horse Tuesday to Saturday, 12noon to 1.30pm Wednesday, morning tea, 10.00am to Monday lunch, roast of the day, $11.00 racing and evening meal. Small and regular 11.00am size meals available Specials Monday, Chase the Ace, 4.00pm to 5.30pm Tuesday and Wednesday, dinner, 6.00pm to Wednesday, Happy Hour, 4.00pm to Tuesday lunch, fish and chips day $11.00 Thursday, Happy Hour, 4.30pm, Sports Bar 8.00pm, Picardy Restaurant 5.00pm (New date) Now every 2nd Wednesday Friday, weekly specials (offal day $12.50, Friday, Happy Hour, 5.00pm when Thursday, morning tea, 10.00am to of the month, A la Carte dining night pasta Friday, parmi and beer $15.00 and function on (bookings at bar) sliders and chips $12.50) See Specials Board 11.00am Thursday, games night, Chase the Ace, Events Every 2nd Thursday lunch, lambs fry and Counter lunches bacon $13.00 4.00pm to 6.00pm Alternate fortnights on Friday, either a three Monday to Friday, 11.45am to 1.30pm Friday, Happy Hour, 4.30pm to 5.30pm course buffet or sundowner. Book early as Counter lunches Events Friday, dinner, Main Hall, 5.00pm to both events will be popular. Don’t forget to Monday to Friday, 11.30am to 1.30pm 9.00pm invite family and friends. We look forward Friday, 9 June, A la Carte menu in Beaufort Saturday, coffee and cake, 2.00pm to to seeing you there. Dinner dance Restaurant with raffle and music by Bob Frazer. 3.00pm Friday, 5.30pm to 10.00pm Friday, 14 July, A la Carte menu in Beaufort Saturday, fish lunch $12.00, 12noon to Events Restaurant with raffle and music by Bob 1.30pm Thursday, 15 June, RAAFA Annual Dinner, Frazer. Events three course dinner with special guest Short stay accommodation Tuesday, 20 June, Italian Theme Night in speaker, Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus the Blue Gum Restaurant. Houston AK, AFC (Ret’d). Tickets $45 Time for a getaway? You can book a stay can be purchased from the Estate Office or in one of our short stay accommodation Friday, 7 July, Magic at Merriwa dinner. Head Office Applecross. units for just $75.00 per night (including Sunday, 16 July, Sunday Roast lunch. continental breakfast). Bookings on Tuesday, 18 July, Indian Theme Night in the Friday, 30 June, Dinner Dance, 9582 5375. Blue Gum Restaurant. entertainment by Peter Ewing, playing all the classics from the 50’s-90’s. Tickets $20 per person (includes main meal from dinner menu). For tickets call Rhonda 0429 336 666. Blooming joy Residents requiring transport out of THE residents and staff at Gordon Lodge volunteer buggy hours, please contact the enjoyed a sunny autumn day and planted out bar and we will organise pickup. the new wheelchair accessible planter boxes, provided by Fleetwood, with flowering bulbs. New furniture is transforming the Merriwa Club The residents had their afternoon tea in the courtyard and then the avid gardeners got their hands dirty, planting out the various Heritage A place to relax at Merriwa bulbs. THE Merriwa Club and bar area is slowly experience with residents arriving early to During this coming winter and spring Village visit being turned into a great place to meet and ensure they get a good position. It was after the courtyard will be a riot of colour and By Lillian Bridewell relax and enjoy a few cold ones. Following one of these nights that a couple of lounges fragrance as the daffodils, ranunculi and other bulbs burst into flower. encouragement by the residents, the Merriwa were placed in the bar area and this proved a RESIDENTS from Erskine Grove had Residents’ Branch is transforming the area great hit. Fleetwood Senior Project Manager, Chris a great day when we took a trip to the with casual furniture and inviting décor. Heritage Village at Armadale. It was then decided to create a Lounge Bar Blair said, “it is a genuine pleasure to support community projects like this, especially for This transformation started last year when with more casual seating, making the Blue We enjoyed morning tea at Serpentine Falls those who don’t get about as much as they the Branch purchased eight new lounges Gum a full time restaurant for lunches, on a beautiful fresh morning and then went used to”. along with coffee tables and foot stools to morning teas and functions. All tables will on to the Village pub for a wonderful lunch be placed near the windows. With views eventually be removed from the bar area and with great service. onto the bowling greens, this area has additional chairs ordered so we can have four quickly become a great place to relax, drink areas dedicated to informal relaxation with When we came out three of our party, a coffee and take advantage of the free Wi-Fi friends. Margaret Cunningham, Bob Schwartz supplied by RAAFA. and Alan Eulenstein were seen admiring a Once all the furniture is in place we hope motorbike and in a big discussion as to who The next addition was a small fridge to keep to have an area available for all residents to was going to ride it home. We all hoped it milk cold ready for the coffees and teas. This come and enjoy the facilities of the Club and wasn’t Margaret or we would have had to area has also made an ideal setting for our be proud to bring their friends along. walk. Devonshire tea afternoons.

The lounges also improve the movie night June / July 2017 AIR MAIL Page 11 AIR MAIL Introducing Welfare RAAFA Connect services enjoyed ONE of the friendly people you will see Officer, Ceridwen around Air Force Memorial Estate is John Slee. John and his beloved late wife Zoe, moved into the estate 12 years ago when 26 YEAR old Ceridwen Fitzpatrick is Barker Community Gardens, where she was they decided to retire in Western Australia the new Welfare Officer at Amity Village recently involved in a creek revegetation to be closer to family. Albany, and although she has only been program with the local primary school. in the job for a few weeks, she admits she They have both been active in participating “Amity Village is just a great community for absolutely loves her new part-time role. around the estate including in social and retired people, I can see why they all love it,” volunteer programs, from being involved Ceridwen, who lives on a farm in Mount she said. with the choir to administration duties or Barker, has previously worked in allied health driving the buggy. and the disability sector, and is also a carer for her foster sister. John says he loves living in the estate because of the comradery and friendship John Slee “My first impressions of Amity Village with the other residents. John lives are that it’s a friendly, welcoming and independently in a Retirement Living unit With Sing Australia John has travelled to extremely active community,” says Ceridwen, with a little help from RAAFA Connect Sydney, , Adelaide and Canberra who is also studying for a Bachelor’s of who provide him with fortnightly domestic to perform. He says that it is like a second Anthropology and Social Psychology degree assistance. This allows John to have more family and such a great group to be part of. at the University of WA campus in Albany. time to do the things he loves and he has He encourages anyone who thinks they may “It’s also a very supportive and involved two great passions in life - golf and music. enjoy it to come along and have a go. place. When I arrived I was very pleasantly It was their love of music that led John So next time you see John’s happy face surprised to see on the notice board that and Zoe to join ‘Sing Australia’ 11 years driving the buggy or around the estate make there are three or four events usually planned ago. Sing Australia is an organization that sure you say hi or stop him for a chat! every day, from tai chi, to music and craft has group choir practices in different areas clubs.” If you would like more information on Sing all over Australia. They welcome everyone Australia visit singaustralia.com.au or on Outside working and studying, Ceridwen to join and promote singing as benefiting the services RAAFA Connect provide in the Ceridwen Fitzpatrick with is also a volunteer for the SES and Mount health and social wellbeing. community 9311 4498. Sheila Quicke RAAFA Welfare Team

Cambrai Village Weekly Exergaming has come to AFME and people lifestyle and nutritional advice. are loving it. Vanessa Priestley 9304 5280 Mondays, 10.30am - Laughter Group, Alice Monday, 9am – Noon (Approx), Fun ways to get fit indoors. If you are Ross-King Care Centre Chiropractic, Dr Brian Tvoric available to interested contact Carena. RAAFA Estate Merriwa Mondays, morning class – Falls Prevention support your needs, Arcade Suzanne Free 9400 3778 Clinic with a Professional Physio, Orion Contact Carena for information on what’s Phone 0431 196 461 for appointment. coming up in June and July. Function Room Tuesday, 8.00am-2.00pm, Australian AFME Fees apply, rebates available. Contact Hearing, Arcade Carena Blair 9311 4562 Carena for times. Meadow Springs Available for hearing screenings and Mondays – 10.30am - Tai Chi Chen Style, Weekly equipment maintenance, repairs and Erskine Grove battery servicing. Some DVA benefits Angeline Carleton 9586 4309 Orion Function Room Tuesday, 10.00am – Mavericks Social Club With professional instructor, $5.00 per available. Appointment book in Arcade. for Members Living with Memory Loss, Phone 9204 9200. RAAFA Estate Meadow class. Simple to learn with only 8 moves Erskine Grove Clubhouse enables you to concentrate on each step. Bus transportation available for Members Monday, 26 June, 10.00am – 12.00pm, Springs Mondays, 2.00pm – Meditation Group, not living on the Estate. Contact Angeline RAAFA Connect Tracey Lockett 9582 5369 Village Hall or Tracey for more information. Presentation on the new services available from RAAFA Connect to assist residents RAAFA Amity Village Wednesdays, 10.00am – Fitness with Emma with their needs. Morning Tea provided. continues, Orion Function Room Erskine Grove Albany Personal gym instruction available. Weekly Cambrai Village Ceridwen Fitzpatrick 9841 8311 Friday, 16 June, 10.30am - Brain Training, Tuesday, 10.00am – Mavericks Social Club Weekly Orion Function Room for Members Living with Memory Loss, The Welfare Service aims to: Caitlin has returned to test and tease your Erskine Grove Clubhouse Wednesday and Sunday, Physiotherapist • Assist ALL MEMBERS, no matter your brain like never before. Bus transportation available for Members Julie Pham location, to maintain and improve not living on the Estate. Contact Angeline Available for appointments from 8.00am. Saturdays, am – Nordic Walking or pole Appointment book located in the Cambrai quality of life for more information. walking Foyer. • Encourage and maintain This is a super way to get your feet walking Tuesday, 8.00am -12noon, Podiatrist independence and your brain working all at once. Merriwa Estate Heather is a trained Nordic walking Fredrick is available for appointments, see • Provide information and referrals instructor from Alzheimer’s WA and she has Weekly book in Cambrai Foyer. Monday and Wednesday, 9.00am – 9.45am • Link you to services to assist with commenced her Saturday walking group First & third Thursday of the month, Water Aerobics, Therapy Pool, $7.50 individual needs here. There will be stretching and a friendly Australian Hearing – Cambrai Treatment Craig, Fitness Instructor/Personal Trainer to coffee after class. Room the senior age group, provides low impact Available for advanced hearing checks, Small Donation to Alzheimer’s WA stretching and cardio exercises to enhance hearing aid repairs, equipment cleaning and Events requested. Contact Carena for details. This your fitness and wellbeing. group will be running throughout 2017. new batteries. Some equipment available Thursday, 10.00am – 11.00am – Group for free for DVA recipients. Call 9204 9200 AFME All Saints Intergenerational Project is Functional Fitness, Meeting Room, $10.00 for an appointment. All events, $2.00 donation unless otherwise continuing to delight all involved. If you includes smoothie stated, morning/afternoon tea included. are interested in joining in, call Carena for Craig, Fitness Instructor/Personal Trainer to Family and friends welcome. details. the senior age group, provides low impact fitness sessions on living a healthier, happy

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