Listening DECEMBER 2016 Vol 39 - No 4 POST THE CENTENNIAL EDITIONS 2014-18

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Listening DECEMBER 2016 Vol 39 - No 4 POST contact cover THE CENTENNIAL EDITIONS 2014-18 contents Editorial and Advertising Information: Staff at ANZAC 4-5 RSL hospitality lives on Editor: John Arthur House have moved 6 HMAS Sydney 75th Anniversary Email: [email protected] to temporary offices 7-8 From the President’s Pen Advertising: Royceton Hardey in Perth. Next year, Email: [email protected] ANZAC House will 9 CEO: It’s a new era Graphic Design: TypeExpress be demolished and 10 Medal makes Eileen’s day Printer: Rural Press replaced by a new We've moved 11 Your letters Contact Details seven-storey office Level 3, 66 St Georges Tce Perth 12 Don’t bury PTSD offering excellent The Official Journal of The Returned & Services League of Australia WA Branch Incorporated The Returned & Services League of 13 ‘Silent suffering’ worries Governor Australia – WA Branch Incorporated facilities to members. 15 Veterans centre for RSLWA Level 3/66 St Georges Terrace Other ex-service organisations will be PERTH WA 6000 encouraged to co-locate and work beside 16-17 Three veterans served their nation PO Box 3023, EAST PERTH WA 6892 the RSL in delivering broader and more 18 John Power left with smile Email: [email protected] comprehensive services. 20 Younger talent energises RSLWA Website: www.rslwa.org.au As our State President Peter Aspinall says in 21-27 Australia invaded Facebook: www.facebook.com/rslwa his regular column, the RSL wants as many Telephone: (08) 9287 3799 30 What makes us Australians? ESOs as possible to share with us the vision of (08) 9287 3732 32 Pingelly unveils walk Fax: 'doing things better, together'. WA Country Callers: 1800 259 799 33 RSL Picnic in the Park (Landline only) Pictured on our cover making the move into our new offices at 66 St Georges Terrace is Events 34-35 Remembrance Day images Contact Directory Coordinator Wendy Moss, Claims Advisor 36-37 Centenary Review CEO / State Secretary: Morgana Ramsey and CEO John McCourt. John McCourt JP, MBA, FAIM, MPRIA 38-49 Remembrance Day services (08) 9287 3799 [email protected] In our last edition phone calls rolled in after we 50-51 Who died at the Western Front? Executive Assistant to the State President said LTCOL Eric Gruber and his wife Melonie 52-60 Sub-Branch News and Chief Executive Officer: Nola Keen were on the cover, instead of his immediate 61 Billy: the teenage POW predecessor LTCOL Rhogan Aitken and his RSL DefenceCare – 9287 3799 wife, Tania. Our apologies to all. 62 From the archives State Manager: Barry Chalk 63 Unit and Kindred listing [email protected] Finally, may we wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Drive safe and we will all 64 Notices Claims Advisor: Morgana Ramsey 65 Crossword and Sudoku [email protected] get to do it again in 2017. Community Support: Rosalind Howat 66 Last Post [email protected] (08) 9287 3707 / 0417 905 742 RSL Statement of Purpose Deadline for the next edition: ANZAC House & Club Manager: The RSL was founded in 1916 to provide Matthew Holyday: (08) 9287 3714 comradeship and support to Australia’s veterans Friday, February 24 2017 Membership: Andrea Hunt and their families. (08) 9287 3705 That core mission has never changed but has The preferred method of receiving Financial Services: continued to evolve to meet the needs of each submissions is via email. Photographs generation of servicemen and women. Peter McGlade: (08) 9287 3718 should be attached separately and a We have a branch network that covers Australia Helen Beech (Mon-Thu): (08) 9287 3703 minimum of 1Mb. This is your magazine and and any veteran who needs help will get it - every contributions and letters are welcome. Events Coordinator: Wendy Moss serving ADF member and veteran will be warmly Social Media Manager: Royceton Hardey welcomed at their local RSL sub-branch or club. Address to: The Editor, Receptionist: Rowena Bush We advocate for the best possible conditions for The Listening Post , Records and Information Manager: our serving men and women and for those who PO Box 3023 East Perth, WA 6892 have served the nation in the past. Helen Starkie (Tue & Wed): (08) 9287 3713 Email: [email protected] We foster respect and thanks from the nation for Board: 2017 all those who have made sacrifices in Australia’s Opinions expressed by contributors in State President: Mr. Peter Aspinall name and we will provide a strong voice on issues articles and reproduced articles are the of national unity and security. Vice President: Mrs. Gabby Ryan individuals’ opinions or the authors of such State Treasurer: Mr. Phillip Draber reproduced articles and are not necessarily Previous Editions those of the RSL. Reproduction of articles Greater Metropolitan Region: Copies of The Listening Post published since June (or extracts) contained in The Listening Mr. Bill Collidge RFD, Mr. Scott Rogers, 2014 are available on our website: Post are welcomed, provided the source is Mrs. Gabby Ryan, Mr. Rob Cashman. www.rslwa.org.au acknowledged. The Editor reserves the right Great Southern Region: Copies published before that date – going back to to accept, reject, sub-edit and re-arrange Mr. Chris Mayfield OAM 1921 – are available via the National Library on material submitted for publication. Eastern Region: http://pandora.nla.gov.au/pan/142460/20140626- Infringement of Copyright Laws: Mrs. Donna Prytulak 1414/www.rslcentenary.org.au/index.html We cannot accept Newspaper clippings for Mid West Region: publication without express approval from Mr. Ross Davies Publishing the Newspaper Editor as we may infringe on Copyright Laws. Pilbara Region: Publishing of The Listening Post: Published Vacant. four times a year with a readership of over 25,000. To all sub-branch Presidents and Secretaries: www.rslwa.org.au Trustees Send photographs (1Mb plus) and a short article Mr. Don Blair OAM RFD on special activities at your sub-branch to The Mr. Wayne Tarr RFD ED Listening Post. www.facebook.com/rslwa 4 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Hospitality lives on after 100

NEW ANZAC HOUSE

RSLWA members can now enjoy the spanking new offices beside London Court. The spacious offices, on the third floor at 66 St Georges Terrace will be occupied by RSL staff until the new seven-storey ANZAC House is built on the existing site in about three years’ time. “At 66 St Georges we have splendid facilities for members including two committee rooms, two meeting rooms  Some of the first members in the new offices at 66 St Georges Terrace were from and an event room suitable for up to 40 Cockburn: Digger Cleak OAM, President of the City of Cockburn RSL Sub-Branch and people – ideal for sub-branch meetings his wife Kay Cleak, Treasurer and Membership Officer, receiving helpful assistance and ESO gatherings,” said ANZAC from Rowena Bush. House manager Matthew Holyday. “We can continue to host Unit and “However, members must book – and “Members are most welcome to use the Association meetings and gatherings I already hold several bookings for the facilities and have a cuppa and a biscuit in the rooms at 66 St Georges Terrace Ex WRANs Association, Returned on us.” because they are ideal for private Ex-Service Women & Legacy Widows – The new offices were previously meetings,” Mr Holyday said. “We can just to name a few.” occupied by ASIC. provide a cup of tea or coffee. Matthew’s contact details for bookings: Next ANZAC House sets up the

by Matthew Holyday the Great War. This took place in a the 1934 version when it opened in now demolished building, housed in 1981. So for 100 years – in one form or the gardens of Government House – The ANZAC Club closes on December another, hospitality has been practised opposite the site of today’s ANZAC 21 – a day for reflection – however on or near this site – a proud tradition House. By 1927 the Soldiers Institute the bright note is the new chapter carried forward by a team of loyal staff was handed over to the RSL and, the that will unfold in the redeveloped that have attended to the needs of the old building held little comfort for the members and ex-service groups over building will mark the start of the returned men and women. next 100 years of RSL activity – and the years. give life to a continuing tradition of Across the road, the first ANZAC Many of the staff are well known with House was opened in 1934 to hospitality on this customary site – four permanent staff having served a replace the old Soldiers Welcome the home of RSLWA. collective 37.5 years. Institute. Within this, the ANZAC The Soldiers Welcome Institute Club carried on the tradition of The closure is indeed a moment commenced its activity in 1916 hospitality established by the 1916 of reflection for those of us who – providing basic hospitality to Soldiers Welcome Institute. The third serve those who have served. It has Australian Soldiers, both departing incarnation is the ANZAC House and been remarkable experience for and arriving from Perth to and from Club we know today, which replaced us to observe that each and every The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 5 years

Telephone: 9287 3714, Email: [email protected] The new offices are in a commercial building and consequently there is no liquor licence. However, Mr Holyday said a number of venues have indicated that they will welcome RSL members for a drink before the new ANZAC House opens. These include: RAAFA Club at Bull Creek: This is a kindred organisation with a similar set- up to ANZAC club. It offers the benefit of car parking and ease of public transport to Bull Creek Station. Able to cater to group lunches etc. Matthew recommends this venue before any other. 43 Below: This tavern is downstairs at 43 Barrack St. It will be displaying an RSL logo and welcome sign and is happy to display Unit & Association plaques and memorabilia – some already are on display. Similar prices to ANZAC Club – some members are already using this facility. Criterion Café: (at the Criterion Hotel in Hay Street). This café will be displaying  Wendy Moss tries out her new work station at 66 St Georges Terrace. The shift to new an RSL Logo and welcome and will offices was required because ANZAC House had reached its use-by date and needed offer similar prices to the ANZAC Club. major improvements just to meet building standards. future gathering of veterans is infused with and surrounded by an esprit de corps and camaraderie that that is unique to the ANZAC Club. So when we close the doors on December 21, we will be thinking of the next phase in the story of friendship, camaraderie and good will that has nurtured the spirit of hospitality here at ANZAC Club – it has been our special privilege to be a part of that proud tradition. We wish all our members and guests every success in the new ANZAC House that will arise on this very special site; the traditional home of RSLWA. Matthew Holyday  Long and loyal service: These permanent members of the ANZAC Club staff have ANZAC House & ANZAC Club Manager accumulated 37.5 years’ service between them. From left, Ashleigh Courtney, Matthew Holyday, Chef Michael Hatcher and assistant club manager Rhonda Heath. 6 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Thousands mourn loss of HMAS Sydney Thousands of people were drawn to the 75th anniversary of Australia’s worst naval disaster in which 645 HMAS Sydney crew died after a battle off Shark Bay with the German raider HSK Kormoran. The anniversary services were held on November 19 in Sydney, Fremantle, Geraldton, Carnarvon and an hour’s drive north of Carnarvon near Quobba Station. For RSLWA State President Peter Aspinall, an informal ceremony near Quobba on November 20 was particularly meaningful as it was close to where the surviving members of the German raider HSK Kormoran struggled ashore in lifeboats.  Commemorations underway at Geraldton’s unique memorial to HMAS Sydney and its crew. “Whilst the area is not very high, you can see the jagged nature of the freighter had enticed Sydney into were found in 2008, 20km apart, about coastline,” Mr Aspinall said. “It is close range and she was then able to 200km off Shark Bay. The memorial remarkable how they got ashore. overwhelm the proud warship with service at Carnarvon attracted about “They rowed for days and then had to gunfire and torpedoes. Bridget Colless, 300 people and served as the official negotiate a desolate ridge. The area is the daughter of Sydney’s captain Joseph unveiling of new memorials to the beautiful but utterly desolate.” Burnett, delivered the keynote address at Sydney and Kormoran crews, and a walk Some 319 members of the 399 crew the memorial service in Geraldton. of remembrance featuring plaques for of Kormoran reached land after their She was five years old when she lost each member of the Sydney. controversial ambush of the Sydney at her father. After years of searching, the The memorials were the result of work sea. The Kormoran’s disguise as a wrecks of the Sydney and Kormoran by many volunteers and local businesses.

 The United Service held at Quobba Point on Sunday November 20. IMAGE COURTESY OF BEN TEO PHOTOGRAPHY. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 7

from the President’s Pen New home to be a ‘veterans centre’

by State President While the new seven-storey ANZAC Peter Aspinall House will be the new home of RSLWA it will be much more.

On November 9 Premier Colin We intend it to be the veterans’ centre;  Peter Aspinall Barnett visited ANZAC House a place where veterans, their families and other dependents can find access with his Veterans’ Minister Joe their mates while remembering those to all the services and support agencies who never returned. As such, RSLWA Francis to publicly sign a Heads they seek. To do this we intend ANZAC needs to continue to lead the way and of Agreement for transferring House to not only possess the physical that means working closely with our back to RSLWA the freehold title necessities but also the presence of valued colleagues in other ESOs. to the land on which ANZAC those other ESOs to offer their valuable advocacy and welfare services. These RACA litigation House sits. ESOs can do so by either co-locating I am sure most of you are aware that As many of you may remember, in 1974 with RSLWA or by creating a RSLWA has been in litigation with WA the then board of RSLWA surrendered 'shopfront' within ANZAC House. Retirement & Aged Care Association the title of the land on which the old The way we want to move forward is Inc (RACA), and others, over what we ANZAC House stood, as well as the area to be an enabler to have as many ESOs perceived to be the sale of RACA at a on which the Law Courts now stand, as possible share with us the vision of significantly reduced value. Our action to the State Government – resulting 'doing things better, together'. had progressed to being listed in the in the demolition of the lovely 1930s WA Supreme Court with a hearing in It’s the way to the future and will ensure late November/early December this year. ANZAC House. In return the government RSLWA is what it always has been. Way constructed the current ANZAC House Earlier this year a round of mediation back when the organisation was born was conducted which produced, from the and leased it to RSLWA for a 21/21/21 the Diggers who conceived the RSL year term for a peppercorn rent. concept were looking at ways of helping Continued over page For quite some time ANZAC House has been too small for the needs of RSLWA and is also now too expensive to renovate and bring up to contemporary standards. Without the security of title over the site any thoughts of redevelopment were out of the question. My predecessor, Graham Edwards, recognised the great opportunity offered by both the centenary of ANZAC in 2015 and the centenary of RSLWA this year and approached Premier Barnett to suggest that the government might consider the return of ownership of the site to RSLWA. The Premier’s signing of the Heads of Agreement saw the realisation of this initiative and all members of RSLWA should be appreciative and proud of this expression of the goodwill towards the RSL by the Government of Western Australia.  The view from the new head office in Perth, with Allendale Square across the road. Administrative staff moved in on November 21. The office is on Level 3, 66 St Georges With the title, RSLWA can now proceed Terrace – right beside London Court and close to bus and train stops. Phone numbers with its redevelopment plans for the site. remain the same. 8 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 from previous page defendants, an offer for settlement which was unacceptable to us. However, our preference was for settlement rather than to take it to court.  Events Coordinator A second mediation round was Wendy Moss was ordered by the Supreme Court, it being an eager helper conducted on Wednesday November 2. in relocating The drawn-out day seemed to be getting RSLWA’s offices nowhere until, right at the end of the in Perth to 66 St day, the defendants made an offer that Georges Terrace. appeared acceptable to our negotiators. The offices are beside London The offer was to be kept open until Court. 1200 hrs the next day to allow me to take the offer to the RSLWA Board on the morning of November 3. The Board ultimately gave its approval for the offer to be formally accepted. Unfortunately, the Supreme Court volunteer advocacy and welfare officers I wish to assure you that in RSLWA we Registrar has imposed a high level that perform diligently and with great are very confident that our financial of confidentiality on the terms of success in our sub-branches. I wish to management is extremely robust and settlement. However, I can inform you dispel that perception in the strongest the opportunities for inappropriate that the Board was very comfortable possible terms. payments to any director or any other with the amount of the financial element At no stage in our review of the delivery RSLWA member who might perform of the offer. of advocacy and welfare services in any duties or activities on behalf of RSLWA are non-existent. We do not The Board did thoroughly canvass the ANZAC House was any suggestion raised that would threaten our volunteer engage in any payment of fees, gratuities risk associated with rejecting the offer or honorariums. and taking our chances in court, coming network. The review identified a to the conclusion that the risk of possibly requirement for a professional support Any member who incurs an expense losing or being successful but not getting entity designed to support our 100-plus for an approved RSLWA activity, and is a judgement better than the settlement advocates and welfare offers through formally acting on behalf of RSLWA, offer was too great. WA. The beauty about engaging will be reimbursed that expense on the DefenceCare WA is that they provide production of a legitimate tax invoice/ The Senior Counsels representing us with systems, software and databases receipt. RSLWA in the mediation round that will greatly enhance our ability to Over recent years RSLWA has been very concurred with our decision to accept. keep track of clients and making sure prudent in its financial management. A downside is that we have to absorb our they get what they need, wherever they own costs which stand at the moment are. While we certainly are not impoverished around $2.6 million. I must point out we do not have the luxury of that to have gone to trial we faced an Financial governance entertaining extravagant expenditures on additional $1 million-plus in legal fees issues in RSLNSW ‘nice to have’ items or activities. and, should we have lost the case, we It has been of great concern that the Notwithstanding my above comment would have had to bear the cost of up to negative media reporting of alleged about financial management, RSLWA 60 per cent of the legal costs of all four inappropriate payment of director’s has moved into a far more comfortable defendants! With settlement the pain fees that has occurred in RSLNSW, financial situation. In light of this, of legal fees is all but over; some minor or more accurately RSL LifeCare, I believe it appropriate that early in fees will be incurred in the tidying up of RSLNSW's aged care organisation. This 2017 I provide you with a report on the the settlement documentation. could have a significant impact on the direction your Board of Directors see generosity of donors in the fundraising Relationship DefenceCare RSLWA travelling over the next few and Remembrance Day Poppy Appeals years. WA & Volunteer Advocate/ conducted by sub-branches around the Welfare Officers state. Unfortunately the public generally Being that time of the year, on behalf of do not differentiate between the various all the Directors, Trustees and the staff It concerns me that there is a perception, I wish each and every one of you the although I acknowledge there have state branches and perceive the RSL as one homogenous organisation. very best wishes for the Christmas/New been some communications containing Year period and hope that 2017 brings statements that have fuelled that Another effect of these alleged lapses in each one of you all that you wish for. perception, that DefenceCare WA financial management is the suspicion has been established to replace, either that such practices may be prevalent or Take care through the festive season. partially or totally, our network of exist in other state branches. Peter Aspinall The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 9 Bits & Pieces... It’s a new era for RSLWA

by CEO of RSLWA Committee – formed by the Board – to John McCourt plan ahead for construction of the new office development within which will To say we’re living in interesting be a new ANZAC Club for members to times is an understatement for gather as they have in the past. RSL in Western Australia. There’s Of course the new facility will provide movement within the CBD and us with facilities to take advocacy and throughout the State with our welfare services to new level in close newest RSL sub-branch chartered collaboration with other ESOs in a more in Chidlow. client-focused model of operation.  John McCourt Also on the move is our electronic As you read this article, the staff at address. The HQ has been removed from stakeholders and other RSL branches ANZAC House will have moved to our email and web addresses as you throughout the country. new temporary premises at Level 3, 66 would have read in this edition. It’s going to be a busy few years ahead St George’s Terrace – leaving behind a The feeling was that it did not accurately as we transition to a new era for us now empty 2nd floor at ANZAC House all, including the establishment of a reflect what we do here at ANZAC which will soon face the wrecker’s new initiative called the RSLWA 2020 House – old or new. hammer when our beloved ANZAC Club Foundation – an entity that will help finally closes its doors before Christmas. We have a dedicated and wonderful build new streams of revenue which will Amid the move, the RSLWA team staff that exist to serve sub-branches build on the fantastic support we have here has been working closely with and represent your best interests when had in the past from the community, the ANZAC House Redevelopment doing business with a wide range of government and the corporate sector.

Battlefields Tours We’re here to we will remember them. HELP

Financial grants to Veterans, Widows, Dependents including ex-ADF and Serving Members in times of hardship. WESTERN AUSTRALIAN AGED INTERNATIONAL GUIDED SAILORS, SOLDIERS AND AIRMEN’S GROUP TOURS RELIEF FUND TRUST • GALLIPOLI & TURKEY web: www.rslwahq.org.au/Our-Services/ • THE SOMME & FLANDERS Financial-Assistance-Trust-Fund.aspx • VIETNAM - LONG TAN Contact the Administrator: • OMAHA & BATTLEFIELD EUROPE Rosalind Howat on 9287 3707 • KOREAN DEMILITARIZED ZONE $194,161.47 DISTRIBUTED IN 2015 • BURMA THAILAND RAILWAY 1800 673 337 madeeasytours.com.au www.rslwa.org.au 10 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Korean medal makes Eileen’s day

For Eileen Hanmer, the personal presentation of a medal by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea His Excellency Mr Kyoung- ha Woo was particularly special. That’s because it was awarded for the service her father, Brian Charles Waller, gave in the Korean War as a regular Australian Army soldier. She never met him. “Dad was only 21 when he left for Korea in 1953 – my mother was pregnant with me when he left and I was only 14 months old when he died.” PTE Waller died in Yokohama in a drowning accident on July 25, 1954. Eileen, an only child who lives in Calista, visited his grave for the first time in June 2013. Her mother died in 1983. “I have all his medals at home. He was transferring to the medical corp and staying on in Japan as a peacemaker. To me this was a very proud moment to receive this medal on behalf of my Dad and our family.” It was also a special day for 10 other  Eileen Hanmer with the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea HE Mr Kyoung-ha Woo. veterans or relatives of soldiers who received the Ambassador’s Peace Medal. They gathered in the Gallipoli Room in ANZAC House for the last major function in the building. Amongst the recipients were cousins Marianne Otway and Shane Otway. They also received the medals on behalf of their fathers – twins Brian and Norm Otway who managed to survive the war. The ceremony was held at ANZAC House – one of the last major events before the closure of the historic building. Air Force 25 SQN WOD Ian Griffiths attended with his two nephews, Flynn Griffiths and his brother LCPL Tasman Griffiths of 16 RWAR. Flynn wore the medals of Brian William John Griffiths, who had a distinguished career in the RAAF over more than 33 years. Mr Woo addressed the veterans and their families by saying the Peace Medals were very special to him, as the son of the Korean War veteran, as well as to the Korean Government. He expressed profound gratitude to the veterans for  Marianne Otway and Shane Otway who received medals on behalf of their late their service. fathers – twins Brian and Norm Otway. Both managed to survive the war. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 11

Please forward Letters for The Listening Post to: [email protected] or write to ‘The Editor of The Listening Post’ at PO Box 3023, East Perth WA 6892. Your Letters Please try to keep letters to a maximum of 150 words. Helping to get jobs Last issue corrections re The Listening Post I am a former member of 2 RAR/ for our Veterans Vol. 39 No. 3. NZ 69 to 73 and did the 2nd Tour. In the above excellent edition, It is interesting to read the 2 RAR Each year some 5,500 ADF members leave the there are two corrections to first tour book. This fine book military and around 70 per cent do so to pursue an be made. Cover pic of LTCOL edited by MAJ Newman makes alternative career. Gruber names him as CO of 16 no mention of this activity at The Australian Government has launched the Prime Battalion RAR while this should all, as I suspect it was organised Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program with a be 16 Battalion RWAR. by B Coy CO without official authority. Someone would have call to action for businesses across the country to The article on The Door Gunners, better harness the talents of our veterans. a lot explaining to do if there reads well but is not factually had been a KIA of one of these The Government will ensure our ADF personnel correct. These men each served blokes. are ready for their post-service careers by ensuring for a period of around three Lloyd Young no-one leaves the armed forces without all the weeks each on a rotation of two at Katanning necessary documentation, such as health and a time in the period of November Editor: You are correct. The cover training records, and providing more support and 1967 to February 1968: not photo was not of LTCOL Eric employment coaching. Any business interested in four years as in the article. The Gruber and his wife Melonie, learning about the benefits of employing veterans RANHFV certainly did but not CO of 16 Battalion RWAR, should email [email protected]. the blokes from B Coy 2 RAR. but his immediate predecessor We can all play a part in raising awareness of the On their website it mentions LTCOL Rhogan Aitken and his enormous potential and talent of our veterans. only seven as serving as door wife, Tania. We apologise for the gunners and Kerry Pearce is not error based on incorrect advice Dan Tehan MP mentioned at all. we received. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Why no beds in planned ANZAC House? As a member of a rural sub-branch I distance, cost of travel, accommodation Philip Orchard said on page 9, “We would like to understand who, how, what and parking. have previously explored 12 options for and why the decision was made to not It is yet another pill to swallow and as development of the site in four major continue with the accommodation being a result it is making me question my groupings which ranged from local included with the rebuild of ANZAC membership with RSLWA? and government offices to commercial House? offices and apartments and various I wonder does anyone else out there, combinations of each. The hotel option It is very mystifying how we as a sub- particularly in the rural sub-branches appeared likely to succeed at one point. branch made the effort to complete feel the same? And could RSL HQ However, for various reasons – cost and and return the questionnaire flyer please explain? risk to name but two – RSLWA decided sent from RSL HQ dated September A. Baker on the smaller office option as the 3, 2015 requesting support for this preferred direction.” accommodation and parking. State President Peter Aspinall comments: Thanks for your letter Anne- I would emphasise that the excessive cost The sub-branch had to be 'convinced' Maree. As an Albany-based member, and the financial risk would have been to participate in what the experienced who frequently visits Perth, I empathise unacceptable to the general membership members thought to be a pointless with your comments about the proposed and were the main reasons for the exercise. building. Already the process has taken decision to opt for the smaller building. Personally, I hightailed as far away from several years and will take several I am confident that members will be the city and red tape as many before me more. We were required by the State proud of the new seven-storey ANZAC have done upon finishing their service Government to conduct a comprehensive House, which will provide excellent - perhaps in hindsight putting ourselves business study into possible site uses member facilities. I believe they will at a disadvantage with not having access before obtaining the freehold title on appreciate the need to spend funds to all the support that can be found November 9. The outcome was reported wisely in an era of economic uncertainty there. One the hardest things about in the September 2016 edition of The and significant hotel development in attending appointments in the city is the Listening Post, when former CEO Perth. 12 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

A prominent and well-respected Vietnam veteran recently visited ANZAC House to deliver a warning about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Most of his life he buried the problem but he encourages returning servicemen and younger veterans, particularly, to look out for symptoms and take action. As he explains, he doesn’t want to reveal his identity. His comments come as the Herald Sun claims its unofficial inquiries amongst serving military and veterans suggest as many as 50 ADF personnel have killed themselves this year, more than the 41 who died over 13 years in the Afghanistan conflict. If you need help, the VVCS operates a 24-hour service on 1800 011 046. Don’t bury PTSD – as I did

Young veterans need to look out had the exact same training as me. His I was told then by a very insistent wife for post-traumatic stress disorder was Fremantle-based and we somehow to do something about it. (PTSD). Mine was diagnosed were able to organise a job swap. It was PTSD was diagnosed in 2007. in 2007; 42 years after a 'scare absolutely unheard of to make the switch Why did it take so long to diagnose? charge' exploded beside me in but we did. I came home to Perth. Vung Tau Harbour and triggered I next had a problem when I was based Was I in denial? Yes, yes, of course. the illness. in Sydney on another ship in 1972. I was You don’t want to look like you’re a still single. One night I got so drunk I wimp to your peers. I didn’t tell anyone I was a 20 year-old marine engineer on rang my mother and told her to get Dad I had issues, because you’re a bloke. board a converted aircraft carrier, down to ring the ship and say my mother was Most of us are the same. in the bowels of the ship checking our very ill and they needed me home… so Were you worried about what friends fire pumps and right beside the hull. that’s what happened. would think? There were no loudspeakers. The scare charge – or hand grenade – had been Yes, and I still am; that’s why I’m dropped the other side of the hull to After I left the Navy reluctant to say who I am. I take deter any underwater swimmers from I had some issues medication and that’s what keeps me attaching mines. level now. I know people who have been when working exposed to much more than me, PTSD It was an almighty explosion with shock affects some and not others, it does not waves right through the machinery discriminate. space. I raced up ladders to a safer place. I guess the Navy looked after me – Once there I remember just sitting down although I don’t think they ever knew But my important message for veterans – and shaking. what state I was in. There was nothing particularly those returning from recent at all on my medical records about conflicts – is to try to recognise they It gave me big trauma. I became fearful may have a problem and to get help. and neglected some of my duties to any stress-induced mental problems. inspect engines and auxiliaries in Nothing. And that’s over the whole of You may be losing your sex drive; you confined spaces. I had to fudge readings my 12 years in the Navy – from 1961 to can’t handle crowds; drink too much or during the next few days of the visit and 1973. you become angry at very minor things. had guilt feelings for the neglect. I could After I left the Navy I had some issues You may not want to socialise. tell no-one. Later, I began drinking when working, particularly when my I suffered very strong nightmares – not heavily. father was very sick and in 1992 I got related to explosions – just difficulty in Two years later, in 1967, I had my in-house counselling. I had further sleeping and waking up in the middle of next major problem on my next vessel. issues in 1996 when my Public Service the night shouting. One evening I got pretty drunk and employment became too stressful to My advice is: Get help. It’s readily came back to ship in Sydney Harbour continue. As a result I started my own available. Speak to your peers. and I jumped over the side. I don’t company which did very well for the Counselling is great for PTSD sufferers, know whether it was a cry for help or next 10 years. as you are able to go right back to the attempted suicide. I don’t think that was After I finished with the business in source of the problems and discuss with the case - I think I had just had enough. 2006, my wife and I travelled Australia a person who is non-judgmental. I was a single person and I had no in a caravan for nine months. During family in the Eastern States. For help with PTSD or other issues call this time I was left with making all VVCS on 1800 011 046. I was fished out of harbour by couple of decisions on travel arrangements, this people on ship. The very next morning I became a major issue as I became very approached a friend on another ship who angry and aggressive a lot of the time. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 13 ‘Silent suffering’ concerns Governor

troops are confronted by apparently ordinary citizens, including children, Remembrance armed with explosives. The enemy is not DAY WA always easily identified. “The recent Senate report into the mental health of Australian Defence The silence at the Western Front Force (ADF) members and veterans 98 years ago reminds us that while states that (since 2000) more than war officially came to an end, the 100 ADF personnel are suspected or suffering didn’t, the Governor of confirmed to have taken their own lives. Western Australia, Her Excellency Forty seven of these had previously the Honourable Kerry Sanderson deployed. AC, said in her Remembrance Day “And the National Mental Health address at the State War Memorial. Commission (NHMC) has noted that ‘data released this year indicates that “In this sense, I refer to the physical death by suicide (in Australia) has injuries and the often silent suffering continued an upward trend and is at the of mental illness, as well as the pain of highest rate in 10 years’. those whose loved ones died or were affected by illness,” she told a crowd of “When a person takes their own life it is more than 2,000. particularly devastating for the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased Kings Park was one of more than 50 member who worry how they could have services held in WA on a day when  Laying a wreath on behalf of the people helped more.” the entire nation paused to remember of Western Australia: the Governor of Mrs Sanderson welcomed RSLWA’s all those who have died or suffered for Western Australia, Her Excellency the Australia’s cause in wars and armed Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC. recent launch of DefenceCare in conflicts. Western Australia to complement the many volunteer welfare and advocacy Nine buglers played the Last Post on was recited by State President Peter services throughout the State. She also Perth CBD intersections. Aspinall. welcomed RSLWA’s plans to build new The main service at the State War Mrs Sanderson paid tribute to all those head offices in Perth and offer space Memorial featured the traditional RAAF who had suffered. She said it was to other ex-service organisations to fly past, the Last Post and Ode. estimated that World War I left between co-locate so that veterans can access The service included the Churchlands 9 and 13 million dead - perhaps as many all the services they need in the one Senior High School Band and the as one-third of them with no known building. official handover of keys to the State grave. “Our veterans need to be able to access War Memorial crypt to the new Warden, “In more recent conflicts, the pressures the best support possible to overcome WGCDR Christine Pittman. The Ode of modern warfare have meant that our these silent challenges.” Tribute to those remarkable sub-wardens The outgoing Warden of the State years. This year we welcomed a new Mr King handed over the keys to the War Memorial, Peter King, has sub-warden, Mrs Shirly Mooney to the crypt to WGCDR Christine Pittman, paid tribute to the remarkable ranks. who has served a total 37 years in the dedication of the memorial’s sub- military. She said it was a great pleasure “Our Deputy Warden, Geoff Simpson, and honour to accept the keys. wardens. OAM RFD has been critical to the The Remembrance Day service is held “Through rain, hail and very hot weather success of the services held within the adjacent to the Pool of Reflection, which they each put themselves forward to State War Memorial precinct. Geoff’s Mr King reminded the crowd contains demonstrate the importance of providing knowledge of protocol and procedure, waters from five oceans gathered by the dignified and solemn commemorative his rapport with organisers and his Royal Australian Navy. services for our veterans past and complete support to the State Warden The centrepiece four burners represent present,” Mr King said in his address is very highly regarded and recognised. Navy, Army, Airforce and Women’s during Remembrance Day. Thank you very much Geoff for the Services and serves as a constant and “Their commitment is amazing and support that you have provided to me permanent reminder of the cost of each has been sub-wardens for many over the past 12 months.” freedom. ISUZU D-MAX D-MAX FARM MATE 4X4 SX SINGLE CAB CHASSIS MANUAL

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For full terms & conditions and current pricing visit isuzuute.com.au/ service-plus. ^Demonstrators do not qualify for retail offer of $1000 free genuine accessories or 3 years free scheduled servicing. Accessory special models qualify for the following: to Private & ABN Buyers $1000 free genuine accessories on Farm Mate & Tourmate models, $2000 free genuine accessories on X Terrain. PLUS 3 years free scheduled servicing. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 15 Veterans’ centre for RSLWA Younger veterans are set to overseas in warlike and non-warlike benefit from construction of a conflicts since the East Timor conflict in 'veterans centre' on the site of 1999. Most of these men and women are aged between 25 and 50. ANZAC House in Perth. Veterans' Minister Joe Francis said there The new $23 million centre will was a perception that the median age still be officially known as ANZAC of veterans in WA was going up. The House and will accommodate RSLWA reverse was the truth with many younger administrative staff. veterans now living here. However, it will also have a wider role Mr Francis said RSLWA would of providing a one-stop shop for veterans contribute $15 million toward the new and serving personnel. building project and would seek the remaining $8 million from Lotterywest. More than 50 ex-service organisations operating in WA will be invited to Premier Colin Barnett said WA had done co-locate or have representatives in the itself immensely proud in recognising new building. and supporting veterans. ANZAC House will be demolished During the past few years events had next year. Most head office staff have included the re-enactment of the relocated to temporary offices at Level departure of two troop convoys from 3, 66 St Georges Terrace. Albany during WWI, the construction of the National Anzac Centre and The ANZAC Club will close its doors on improvements at Mt Clarence, and the December 21.  Architect Kym MacCormac says the visit to Perth of the ANZAC-themed Construction of the new centre will take proposed seven-storey replacement of marionettes the Giants, which drew 1.5 three to four years and rise to seven ANZAC House is essentially an office million people to city streets early last storeys, with a basement underneath. building which provides a function area year. and coffee shop at the ground level. On “The land transfer is one of a number On November 9, Premier Colin Barnett, level one a function room will be able to Veterans' Minister Joe Francis and seat 200 for national conventions and of Liberal National Government State President Peter Aspinall signed receptions. Three floors will be available contributions made in recognition of the a Heads of Agreement guaranteeing for allied organisations and commercial ANZAC centenary commemorations,” the RSL freehold title to the land on tenants. Two floors will house RSL staff he said. “ANZAC House land alone is which ANZAC House currently sits on and its executive. The RSL badge on top valued at $3.36 million. the corner of St Georges Tce and Irwin is flanked by twin flag poles. “In total, the State Government Street, as well as vacant land on the contributed nearly $30 million for western side of the building. The new “RSLWA is taking a customer-focused, the commemorations, including $15.8 centre will much wider than the existing million for the National ANZAC Centre ANZAC House. ESO-centric approach to serve those who matter most – the veterans - and and centenary events in Albany.” “This welcome decision by the have the client at the centre of service Both Mr Barnett and Mr Aspinall paid government paves the way for us to delivery by ESOs which bring an tribute to the former State President of develop a new modern building that excellent and proactive range of services RSLWA Graham Edwards for his vision will help us to revolutionise services to and support initiatives. in initiating the return of the freehold ex-service men and women and their title to the RSL. families,” Mr Aspinall said at the official “There is an ideal opportunity for signing of a Heads of Agreement. RSLWA to act as the enabler to bring Mr Aspinall also thanked former CEO together other ESOs to add value to the Philip Orchard and ANZAC House “Currently there are more than 50 significant and valuable services they manager Matthew Holyday for their separate organisations in WA supporting already provide. work. veterans and serving personnel. “Our vision is to bring those services FOOTNOTE: RSLWA surrendered the “We are committed to making a real together under one roof to – in effect freehold title to the existing property when difference in how services are provided – do things better together. This land the Law Courts complex was built. The by working closely and collaboratively site for ANZAC House was provided on with as many ex-service organisations transfer means we can build new offices and open the doors to what is currently a a leasehold basis and the current ANZAC (ESOs) as possible to provide House was opened in 1981. coordinated support for those who need fragmented service-delivery sector.” assistance – whoever they are, whatever In WA, there are an estimated 7,000 to they need. 10,000 veterans who have been deployed 16 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

Veterans mourned the loss of three stalwarts in October with Three veterans who the death of RSLWA Vice President Denis Connelly, Burma Railway always actively encouraging others to family – his brother Keith was an ace survivor Snow Fairclough and the contribute. fighter pilot – and went to war with indefatigable Eric Roediger. “He had a cheerful disposition, a wicked another brother, Claude with the 2/3rd sense of humour and made a huge machine gunners in 1941. All passed away within a week or so. contribution to our sub-branch. We will They went to Egypt and then were In fact the funeral on October 7 of Eric miss him.” Eric Roediger (106) took put on the fateful ship Orcades which at the Fremantle Crematorium in West part in this year’s ANZAC Day Parade Chapel immediately followed the service delivered them to Java with old rifles through Perth – as he did last year. for Denis. and a few rounds of ammunition. He comes from a remarkable military With the large Japanese force that Milton ‘Snow’ Fairclough’s funeral was just three days later at Karrakatta. All men left their own indelible mark. Of Denis, RSLWA President Peter Aspinall said, “Denis gave his all as a volunteer and his loss is being felt keenly. He was a true-blue Australian who served in the RAAF for six years, served in Vietnam and then spent more than 19 years helping other serving and ex-serving personnel through the RSL. He was devoted to helping his mates.” Helen Pickering, who worked closely with Denis at Applecross RSL Sub- Branch, says Denis was a proud and passionate member who was  Eric Roediger and Snow Fairclough at the 2016 ANZAC Day Parade through Perth.

Pinjarra RSL recognises kids RSL DefenceCare helps current and ex-serving Pinjarra RSL Sub-Branch has come up with a novel idea to members of the Australian promote family interest by awarding children of members Defence Force and their with their own set of medals. President Mick O’Donnell families in times of injury, says the medal presentations have gone down a treat. illness and crisis. Mikayla Blake and Riley and Peyton Downs all received medals for perseverance on the home front. Mikayla’s PROVIDING: medal was presented to her in recognition of having to – a safe place for members of the Defence family to endure her father’s operational deployment last year. come in troubled times – compassionate and understanding support, and Riley and Peyton both received the same medal and were – practical, holistic and immediate assistance also presented with the MEAO medallion. The MEAO  medallion covers all locations and deployments to the An initiative of RSLWA Middle East area of operations or to the Middle East  Services include assistance with DVA Claims, region. At the time of the presentation their father was Communityhouse Support, Financial Assistance ad and deployed in the Middle East. Referrals  RSL DefenceCare Claims Advisors are currently defencecareundergoing extensive training and mentoring from the NSW team and will soon be able to provide claims advice. Your patience in these early days is appreciated Our new team is located at the RSLWA head office – Level 3, 66 St Georges Tce, Perth and is available on 9287 3799 Donations to RSL DefenceCare are tax deductible and can be made online at www.rsldefencecare.org.au  Peyton Downs received her medal for perseverance on ALL DONATIONS FROM POSTCODES WITHIN WA WILL BE the home front. USED TO SUPPORT THE WA SERVICES. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 17 served their nation well landed on Java they had no option but have been any POWs; the whole lot of us He returned to the Burma Railway in to surrender and this was the beginning would have been annihilated.” 1985 with his former leader, legendary army surgeon Sir Edward ‘Weary’ of three and half years of captivity. To Eric, war was not the defining Eric and Claude were sent to Thailand, Dunlop. moment of his life. His great love was where they were forced to work long farming and his faith. And he repeatedly went back – at least and dangerous days on the Thai-Burma a dozen times – because he felt it was Railway. Snow Fairclough is another distinguished important to inform young Australians Digger. He also was a Japanese POW The brothers were then sent to Japan on about the suffering and sacrifices of the Byoki Maru, surviving a typhoon, and a survivor of the notorious Thai- Australian and Allied prisoners of war. American torpedo attacks and the Burma Railway – and a member of 2/3rd privations of travelling in a boat gutted Machine Gun Bn. of any bridge. Snow (96) is worthy of a book in They were sent to work on coal mines his own right and in fact featured in under the sea, between Nagasaki and War, Hate and Lizard, a documentary Hiroshima, and survived with Eric commissioned by the Town of Victoria believing his faith in God kept him Park which deals with his war going. experiences. He openly pondered about how lucky During three and a half years captivity, POWs in Japan were with the dropping Snow endured terrible sickness, hunger of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima on and beatings in forced labour that caused August 6, 1945 and three days later on the death of 2,800 Australian POWs. Nagasaki. “Breakfast would be half a cup of “I think how lucky we were that the liquidy rice and there was a lot of mice atom bomb was dropped, because that and poo and maggots in that,” Snow  Denis Connelly was a familiar figure stopped the invasion of Japan. Had there once recalled. “A friend of mine used to around ANZAC House in his role as been an invasion of Japan there wouldn’t say, ‘eat it up, it’s good protein’.” RSLWA Vice President.

amazingalbany_wa_eps Think Albany and the National Anzac Centre for your next reunion event.

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VISIT WWW.AMAZINGALBANY.COM.AU FOR MORE INFORMATION. 18 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 John Power left with a big smile Typically, Leslie (John) John’s final days were spent Power left us with wonderful surrounded by his wife Dorothy memories of his big smile and family, 10 grandchildren and after his long service as a 5 great-grandchildren, and he left them a message which has to be volunteer RSL Advocate. repeated. He passed after a battle with “Saturday was a great day to have cancer. a party. I really enjoyed sitting John joined the Army as a boy among my family and friends diesel mechanic and after finishing watching the sun shine outside and Apprentice School commenced his seeing the interaction. service with RAEME. I was very mindful of the very Two of John’s postings outside of high degree of love and friendly RAEME were with 1st Armoured support that I have been given Regiment as LAD SGT and since becoming ill. followed years later as officer with It has made my journey so much 2nd Cavalry Regiment within the more memorable and easy. It was RAEME Squadron. a day to remember. Thank you John was awarded Mention in to everyone concerned. My best wishes and regards – John.” Dispatches (MID) for his work, in  John Power featured in The Listening Post in South Vietnam, for innovations in RIP – Lest We Forget December 2015 as one of the volunteer advocates mine clearing while a Captain with Bob Sheppard caring for veterans at ANZAC House. He and Bob RAEME. Volunteer Advocate Sheppard served in Vietnam. Vietnam mine-clearing saved lives John Power served for 25 years in the “In this task, he worked exceptionally cool courage and leadership, showing a Australian Army and as an officer hard to improve the initial design,” Mr fine example to others.” distinguished himself in Vietnam by Wells said. For his efforts, John Power was developing a successful mine-clearing “He further assisted with technical device. Mentioned in Despatches. Ironically, the advice during tests in the field. His own deadly American M16 jumping jack anti- The device potentially saved hundreds personal untiring efforts inspired his personnel mines that needed clearing of lives and was fitted to a M113A1 men to work very long hours during the were from a massive 11 kilometre barrier armoured personnel carrier. construction of the device. minefield, between Dat Do village and Osborne Park RSL’s Norm Wells, who “Captain Power also developed the safest Lang Phuoc Hai village, and laid by served with John, in his eulogy said John possible means of recovering damaged Australians to protect our own Diggers. thought up a concept to modify the APC mine clearing armoured personnel by extending an outrigger from the rear Enemy soldiers quickly learnt to remove carriers from within the minefield. to support eight loosely rolling truck and relocate some 5,000 which for an tyres across the undulating ground to In this task he regularly exposed himself extended period caused more than 50 per trigger any laid mines. to dangerous situations and displayed cent of Australian Task Force casualties. Muradup’s memorable memorial It was fantastic and incredibly moving of the memorial which was attended by horse breakers, carriers and more. Of to witness the pride and support of a more than 300 people. It was truly one those who enlisted 12 died in service. small community like Kojonup for its of the more remarkable and wonderful The memorial is believed to be historic Muradup War Memorial on community gatherings I have attended. the earliest dedicated memorial to September 24. Muradup War Memorial is unusual veterans or to those who lost their lives I was honoured to lay a wreath on in that it lists all the 40 men who anywhere in Western Australia. behalf of the RSL at the service to volunteered for the First World War – Peter Aspinall commemorate the 100th anniversary farmers, carpenters, labourers, fettlers, State President 89532LWFCuckooLISTE 2016-11-15T09:19:16+11:00

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Rob says it can be difficult for younger veterans to realise they are that, In the last edition of The Listening Post, veterans. we introduced Bunbury-based Chris Mayfield OAM as a new board member. “To me with that term there is a tremendous responsibility. The RSL Rob Cashman (40), President of serves the interest of its members, Fremantle RSL Sub-Branch fills a casual veterans, the ex-service community and vacancy for the Greater Metropolitan   the members of the ADF in a multitude Region until elections are held to New RSLWA Vice President Gabby Ryan. of ways. It is the organisation that offers coincide with State Congress next year. welfare, commemoration, advocacy, He has an impressive 'life experience' employment programs and so much CV, having served in the SAS in more. Afghanistan and travelled the world for seven years. “In my eyes it is the best organisation that is equipped to assist veterans into “I joined the Army aged 19 in order to get a career, I hadn’t really intended for the 21st Century and beyond.” it to go that way but my Dad was a Navy Gabby Ryan was elected as Vice Veteran of 23 years and he helped me President to fill the casual vacancy along with that decision,” Rob explains. caused by the untimely death of Denis “I wanted to go to Cavalry; however Connelly. I was also focused on getting a trade “I am honoured and privileged – Denis qualification, so whilst in Kapooka I has left huge shoes to fill,” said Gabby changed my corps to catering and never after being elected into the position until looked back.  Rob Cashman in Afghanistan. the 2017 State Congress. “Upon graduating Puckapunyal with Gabby is Vice President of the City of Student of Merit, I was able to choose service with the first deployment of troops to Afghanistan in 2001/2002. Cockburn RSL and served 25 years a posting to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment in the Australian Regular Army and and after a few years was posted to “I finished my 6.5-year Army career at attained the rank of Warrant Officer the Special Services Regiment in 6RAR in Brisbane.” Class 2 with a wide variety of postings, Swanbourne. His seven years on the road taught him and numerous courses, deployments to “Here I embarked on a fascinating empathy, compassion and understanding Darwin, Butterworth - Malaysia and journey for three years seeing active in some of the poorest countries. East Timor. Gallipoli flag is with WA museum A significant piece of Western The unit was led by Captain Douglas where it was purchased by military Australia’s World War I history has McWhae from Maylands and included collector Doug Buhler. By chance, Royal been returned to the WA Museum after Private John Simpson Kirkpatrick, more WA Historical Society Curator Wendy a successful community-led funding famously known as ‘the man with the Lugg saw an online story about the flag. campaign. don key’. The campaign to raise the funds for the The 3rd Field Ambulance C Section Red The flag carries the inscription ‘Flag flag’s return was initiated by Ms Lugg of C Section 3rd Fld Amb April 1915’, and Museums Australia WA, with strong Cross flag is recorded as being the first as well as the signature of flag bearer support from the society. The fundraiser flown by the Red Cross on the beach Private Arnsed Kemp. He kept the flag soon gained the attention of community at Gallipoli and is of national and State throughout the war and sent it to CAPT members with links to the 3rd Field significance. McWhae in 1918 as a keepsake of the Ambulance C Section. The 3rd Field Ambulance C Section was Gallipoli landing. George Roscoe, son of Gallipoli C largely made up of West Australians who CAPT McWhae brought the flag back section bugler William Roscoe, also were among the first to land at Gallipoli, to WA but after his death it disappeared, donated his father’s service medals to supporting the 3rd Infantry Brigade. surfacing many decades later in Canada the museum. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 21

 WWII air raids across Australia - from Exmouth WA to Townsville QLD. Most air attacks however, were concentrated against the Northern Territory. (MAP COURTESY OF PETER INGMAN FROM TOM LEWIS'S & INGMAN'S ZERO HOUR IN BROOME). Australia invaded 75 years ago Imagine an air raid on a WA What might have happened had the town, killing 88 people and Japanese advance not been stopped at destroying 22 aircraft. Milne Bay and Imita Ridge? Battle Never in our history was our nation so Imagine raids on not one but seven WA for Australia threatened. towns, ships being sunk and lives lost all around our coastline - even south We struggle today to understand how of Esperance - and reports of enemy War Memorial in Kings Park this serious Australia's situation was in 1942. landings at Jurien Bay, Port Gregory and year. More services will be held In The impregnable fortress of Singapore Exmouth. February and March next year with had fallen. Over 15,000 Australians had become prisoners of war. Imagine Darwin in flames, 252 Allied 75th anniversaries at Darwin and service personnel and civilians dead, the Broome (and perhaps other places) as Prime Minister John Curtin understood communities remember the devastating victims of more than 260 enemy aircraft. the threat. On the day that Singapore attacks that caused mass panic and fell, he warned: All these things happened and early evacuations. In the following articles we “The fall of Singapore can only be next year will be the 75th anniversary will reveal more about those dark days. of many of the air and sea raids by an described as Australia's Dunkirk... The days when we fought with our aggressive Imperialist Japanese Navy [The] fall of Dunkirk initiated the battle American ally to turn the tide of the war and Air Force and German raiders for Britain. The fall of Singapore opens in the Pacific. during WWII. the Battle for Australia.” The attacks are little known or It was a time when a young nation found The imminent threat was brought home understood. But they left more than its very survival at risk. just days later when Darwin was bombed 1,200 Australians dead on the mainland Australian mainland and Australian on February 19, 1942. The first of and more than 1,750 were killed in cities were under attack. One million 64 times. Australian waters. Fifty four enemy Australians served in uniform to protect On March 3, Broome was strafed by warships sank 53 merchant ships and their country and a further six million nine Japanese Zero fighters, killing 88 three warships. HMAS Sydney was Australians were mobilised. and destroying 22 Australian, Dutch and sunk on November 19, 1942 off WA by The Battle for Australia extended American aircraft. a German raider with the loss of 645 beyond our mainland and offshore. It In succeeding months air attacks were people. The hospital ship Centaur lost encompassed the Battle of the Coral made on many towns in northern 268 souls when it too was sunk. Sea, Kokoda Track, the Battle of Milne Australia including Wyndham, Port Since 2008 there has been a concerted Bay, the Battle of Guadalcanal, the Hedland and Derby in Western attempt to acknowledge and recognise Battle of the Bismarck Sea, the Battle Australia, Darwin and Katherine in the Battle for Australia on the first of the Beachheads – at Buna, and Gona the Northern Territory, Townsville and Wednesday in September every year. and Sanananda and the death march at Mossman in Queensland, and Horn One such service occurred at the State Sandakan. Island in the Torres Strait. 22 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Lifting the lid on Japan’s lethal attacks

by Historian and Author Other work is continuing alongside the Tom Lewis OAM TTR program. The historian for the program, Dr Tom Lewis OAM, has The war across northern Battle been researching for several years a new for Australia book analysing the Japanese aircrew Australia in World War II was fatalities. The Empire Strikes South will more comprehensive than has be released in February. ever been realised. refusal to go – and the authorities’ The commemoration on February 19 willingness to use force to ensure she will likely be the last time veterans of The Territory Remembers is the and her family did. Northern Territory Government program the war make the journey to Darwin to commemorating the 75th anniversary of The late Cec Jensen quips that as be part of the activities program. In their the first air raid on February 19, 1942. an Army driver-mechanic he hauled nineties, they are growing too old to tonnes of bombs closer to Tokyo, but by travel without serious discomfort. It is also the realisation that the air raids truck rather than aircraft. And former There were numerous war activities in were more savage and devastating is Administrator of the Territory and the northern half of Western Australia, being coupled with an understanding RAAF radar man in the war Austin many still not well known. of the role of the Aboriginal military Asche AC says with determination that For example, the air raid on Broome on connection; the fuller extent of the raids he saw no-one talk of surrender in the March 3, 1942 was the second heaviest which continued for two years, and a entire campaign to save Australia. bigger understanding of the devastation in terms of loss of life in Australia’s they caused. Australia as a whole seems to be history. Eighty-six people were killed growing in awareness of what happened in a devastating strike on flying boats For example, evacuation from the on February 19,1942, says Jenny preparing for take-off, filled with northern port of Darwin was known Deveraux, the TTR program Director, evacuees, mostly from the European to have occurred on five freighters but it is important to realise that was colonial power possessions to the north, chartered to take especially women and only a beginning. such as those held by the Dutch. children south. However, new research undertaken by TTR is showing that The raids continued on a regular basis, Their cargo unbeknownst to the thousands more people were evacuated often seeing weekly attacks by fleets of attacking Zeroes, the flying boats made by road and train in very primitive Japanese 'Betty' bombers escorted by excellent targets for strafing runs – their conditions once it was known sea travel Zero fighters. wrecks can still be seen today at low was too dangerous. In fact the Territory was attacked by tide. A program to unveil a statue of Matthias submarines in the month preceding the In fact the air raids ranged as far into Ulungura, who captured the first initial air raid. The Sixth Submarine WA as what is now Exmouth, then an Japanese airman brought down, has Squadron of the Imperial Japanese Navy operations area for mostly-US warships. already been completed. And other was sent south to close down the port, The last aircraft shot down over research is showing the number of so as to ensure the Japanese new-found Australia was in fact over Western Japanese raids and their aircrews who possessions would be safe from raids, Australia, a Dinah of the Japanese died is greater than first thought. but also to protect their right flank as Navy. These twin-engined machines they turned left to sweep through New were fast and manoeuvrable, and used The TTR program has also delivered Guinea. a varied program of commemorative to reconnoitre targets before bombing events which have Territorians focusing This was so they could base their strikes. on what happened 75 years ago. aircraft and submarines there to cover The incoming Dinah was picked up Australia’s east coast, and prevent the by an early warning station at Cape They include art forums; a travelling Americans from basing their campaign Leveque and its presence passed on to series of events, including a presence in Australia – so much nearer to Truscott’s 154 Radar Station. Three in local shows, and a series of Japanese possessions than their west RAF Spitfire Mk VIII fighters of No. commemorative vehicle number plates coast. 54 Squadron on detachment at Truscott with a 'BOD' – for Bombing of Darwin – were scrambled to intercept the intruder, prefix, the proceeds of which supporting The submarines failed: one was sunk guided by the radar operators. Legacy in the NT, community events and the others fled. Under part of the and memorial grants, a photographic TTR program that 80-man vessel will be The RAF pilots, Flight Lieutenants coffee table book and a television mini- commemorated by the local Australia- D Gossland and F ‘Freddie’ Meakin series featuring people from those times Japan Association early next year. and Flight Sergeant A Knapp made who served in the military forces, or A month after the submarine assault the interception at 25,000ft, after the were impacted in their civilian lives four of the aircraft carriers which had hit Dinah had reportedly released small by the oncoming Japanese forces. Pearl harbour came south with a 17-ship fragmentation bombs against them, For example, Wendy James, who was battle group to – this time – achieve which exploded harmlessly. evacuated south, tells of her mother’s some of that original aim. Continued page 52 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 23 Squadron Leader Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott

Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott, DFC and Bar, command, the previous leader having was an ace fighter pilot who played in been killed in action. Truscott evacuated Melbourne Football Club’s winning his aircraft to Port Moresby amidst WWII grand final sides and died when Battle uncertainty about whether the airfields his Kittyhawk fighter crashed over the for Australia at Milne Bay could be held. Truscott waters of the Exmouth Gulf on March and his squadron served throughout the 28, 1943. Milne Bay battle in constant rain, heavy months of war flying, he had destroyed mist and low clouds. He is interred at Karrakatta Cemetery. at least 11 German aircraft, was awarded The mountainous terrain, slippery Truscott was the RAAF’s second- the Distinguished Flying Cross, and runways, and heavy anti-aircraft fire highest-scoring ace of World War II after made a flight commander. In January added to the danger but Truscott Clive Caldwell. 1942 he was made acting squadron survived and continued to command Bluey Truscott was never regarded as leader before being posted back to the squadron when it was transferred to a great flyer, but he was aggressive Australia in March. Darwin. and accurate with his shooting. He In Australia, Truscott joined No. 76 His tally rose to 16 enemy aircraft epitomised the true Australian larrikin Squadron in Bankstown. The squadron, destroyed along with three probables spirit and was a national hero. flying Kittyhawks, had previously served and three damaged. In February 1943 According to the Australian War in Papua. The squadron, including the squadron moved to a quieter posting Memorial website, he was sent to Truscott, redeployed there in July 1942. in Western Australia. Truscott was on a Canada under the Empire Air Training Before leaving Australia, Truscott played training flight over the Exmouth Gulf on Scheme and was commissioned in a last game for the Melbourne football March 28 when he made a mock attack February 1941 and ordered to England, club. on a low-flying Catalina. Misjudging his where he joined No. 452 Squadron on Based at Milne Bay, No. 76 Squadron height over the glassy water, Truscott May 5. Flying a Spitfire, he scored arrived shortly before the Japanese crashed into the sea and was killed. his first victory in August. After three landings. By August Truscott was in Lest We Forget An easy answer to your health and aged care questions Introducing The Veteran Community Navigator Service • A dedicated helpline • Complimentary health and aged care advice • Friendly navigators to answer your questions • Exclusive to the Veteran community Let us do the hard work for you

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RDNS HomeCare provides home nursing and support services across Australia. We support thousands of seniors, veterans, families and communities every day. www.rdnshomecare.com.au 24 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Just the Facts – attacks on WA History records slight and were subsequently detained in variations in numbers but this Carnarvon, where locals formed a bond with these survivors. It developed is a good indication of the Battle further in 1981 with the erection of the impact of war on Australia for Australia Cairn at Quobba Point, and with the during World War II. erection of the Town Cenotaph. Attacks on the Australian mainland: Drawn from the excellent book 'Red Sun on the Kangaroo Paw' by Kevin Gomm • Mainland Australia was bombed 98 and research by Battye Library’s Steve times by the Japanese. Most raids were Howell: on Darwin, some 64 in all, but there were 15 air raids on Western Australia Wyndham (two air raids) between March 3, 1942 to September • Tuesday March 3, 1942 27, 1943. Although the first Darwin air • Monday, March 23, 1942 raid was the most devastating with an estimated 252 killed and 400 wounded, Kalumburu (One air raid) the second most devastating occurred • Monday September 27, 1943 + Known shipping losses resulting at Broome, Western Australia. Derby (One air raid) from Japanese action in WA waters: • More than 1,200 people died on our • Friday March 20, 1942 • SS Parigi – 1172 ton Dutch freighter own soil as a result of these strafings Broome (strafed four times) torpedoed and sunk by submarine 1-2 and bombings. in Indian Ocean ostensibly west of • Darwin was first bombed on • Tuesday March 3, 1942 (Carnot Bay) + Cervantes. March 1, 1942 • Friday March 20, 1942 + February 19, 1942. The next day the • Thursday August 27, 1942 • SS Koolama – 4068 ton WA State state ship Koolama was attacked by • Monday August 16, 1943 Shipping Line vessel attacked by Japanese flying boats off the coast aircraft on February 20, 1942. Sank of Western Australia with one killed Port Hedland (Three air raids) and written off at Wynham Jetty. and three injured. The Koolama was • Thursday July 30, 1942 + March 3, 1942 beached near Kalumburu Mission, • Monday August 17, 1942 • Foxworthy – 15 ton lugger destroyed marooning 180 passengers and crew, • Monday August 16, 1943 by aircraft during first raid in Roebuck including several women, a baby, and some wounded men. The monks at Onslow (one air raid) Bay, Broom. March 3, 1942 Kalumburu rescued some 127 of these • Wednesday September 15, 1943 • SS Siantar – 8667 ton Dutch freighter by making two trips in the mission torpedoed and sunk about 600km Exmouth Gulf (Four air raids) lugger and by having a group of the north west off Shark Bay by submarine • Thursday May 20, 1943 fittest men walk 50 kilometres overland I-1 on March 3, 1942 with the loss of guided by Indigenous men from the • Friday, May 21, 1943 21 lives. • Saturday May 22, 1943 mission. The survivors were housed • Thursday September 16, 1943 In addition, of course, there were the at the mission and then progressively attacks by German warships in WA evacuated by airplane, the last not Port Gregory (one submarine waters: going until October 1943. shelling) • On November 19, 1941 the sinking of • The last air attack on Western Australia • Thursday January 28, 1943 HMAS Sydney was Australia’s great came on September 27, 1943, when + Denotes deaths occurred naval tragedy with the loss of the entire a force of some 40 Japanese fighters crew of 645. The careful disguise of and bombers attacked the Kalumburu In addition Enemy Aircraft shot the German auxiliary cruiser HSK mission and airstrip. (Two runways down over WA skies during WWII: Kormoran (which looked like a Dutch had been built to allow long-range fighters and medium bombers to take- • Broome, March 3, 1942: One merchant vessel) was sufficient to off and land). During the raid Father Mitsubishi AM62 Zero fighter piloted entice the Sydney into close range where she was overwhelmed with Thomas Gil, an Indigenous woman by WO Osamu Kudo shot down by gunfire and torpedoes. On March called Veronica and her baby Sylvester, ground fire. Pilot never retrieved. 17, 2008 the Australian Government and three other Indigenous children, • Over Vansittart Bay, July 20, 1944: announced that the wreckage of Dominic, Benedict and Jeremy were One twin-engine Mitsubishi Dinah both HMAS Sydney and Kormoran killed. Father Gil was dug out from a reconnaissance plane piloted by LT had been found, approximately 112 bomb crater with his arms blown off, Kiyoshi Izuki with observer LT Hisao nautical miles off Steep Point, Western his spine broken and his head in pieces. Itoh shot down by three Spitfires. The Australia. The German survivors from The other victims were similarly wreckage was retrieved in 1980. Kormoran came ashore at Quobba, disfigured. We’ve moved!

RSL staff are located at: Level 3 66 St Georges Terrace (beside London Court)

Come and have a cuppa on us! Book a room for a sub-branch meeting or gathering. There are two committee rooms, two meeting rooms and an event room suitable for up to 40 people. To book, contact Matthew Holyday on 9287 3714 or [email protected] There is no booking charge for Proposed ANZAC House RSL events. Although staff have relocated, phone numbers have not changed. Email addresses stay the same, although you can email us without the ‘HQ’ in the address. We’re closer to the bus and train services. ANZAC Club closes permanently on Wednesday December 21 clearing the way for the development of a seven-storey ‘Veterans’ Centre’. In the meantime, Members will be welcome at other premises until the new ANZAC House is finished.  Google map showing location of new offices LEVEL 3, 66 ST GEORGES TERRACE (beside London Court) www.rslwa.org.au 26 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Broome to commemorate dark day The Shire of Broome expects several visiting authors and historians to provide presentations when it commemorates the second most devastating attack on Australian soil in March next year. “The Shire of Broome is working with the RSL, Norforce, Broome Historical Society, St Mary’s College and others to plan the Broome Air Raid 75th anniversary commemorations,” a shire spokesman told The Listening Post. “The full program of events is yet to be finalised, but the centrepiece will be a  Aftermath of the devastating first raid on Broome on March 3, 1942: Flying boat wrecks memorial service in Broome’s Bedford are still visible in Broome harbour at low tide. (PUBLIC DOMAIN) Memorial Park at 7.30am on Friday March 3. impassable roads caused most to return “Other supporting events are still being after a few days. planned and finalised.” There was also much heroism, notably According to research by Battye Battle Captain Harold Mathieson, skipper of the Nichol Bay, who rescued Dutch Library’s Steve Howell, a flight of nine for Australia survivors, Captain Lester Brain of Japanese Zeros led by Zenjiro Miyano Qantas put to sea in a small launch flew over Broome on March 3 and were managed to get out, Staff Sergeants to look for survivors and Charles surprised to find 16 flying boats in the Melvin Donoho and Willard Beatty. D’Antoine, an Aboriginal refueller, harbour and seven other aircraft at the Both men made it back to shore after helped survivors reach shore. aerodrome, including two Liberators and an epic 36-hour struggle in the water, two Flying Fortresses. At the same time as the raid on Broome, but Beatty is believed to have died soon another flight of eight Zeros attacked The Japanese first attacked an Empire after in a Perth Hospital, although no Wyndham and destroyed a fuel dump. flying boat, which soon was ablaze, then death certificate or grave has ever been The damaged Koolama, which was tied the Corinna, a Qantas Short Empire found. Lamade in his Curtis float plane up at Wyndham jetty, sank. flying boat. The Corinna was at the time managed to escape to the south in the refuelling from the schooner Nichol confusion. There was a peculiar aftermath to the Bay and was soon on fire and sinking, Broome air raid. In early March 1942, In 15 minutes every flying boat was one of the last planes out of Java was but the Nichol Bay was miraculously sunk or on fire. Many of the Dutch unharmed. about to transport Dutch refugees away passengers were killed in the attack or from the advancing Japanese army. At The Zeros then turned their attention to later perished trying to get to shore. The the last minute, a mysterious brown the Dutch Dornier flying boats, which Japanese then turned their attention to paper package was handed to its pilot, had been refuelled and were full of the aerodrome, where there were still Russian air ace Captain, Ivan 'Turc' people. Dutch refugees, mostly women two B17 Flying Fortresses, another Smirnoff. and children, had spent the night aboard, B24 Liberator, a Lockheed Lodestar, a due to lack of accommodation in the Lockheed Hudson, and a Douglas DC3. Heading for the supposed safety of town. All were attacked and destroyed. Australia, the ill-fated DC-3 flew straight into the path of three Japanese Zeroes A Curtis float plane from the USS The Japanese did not get off scot-free, returning from the air raid on Broome. Houston piloted by Jack Lamade with Dutch pilot Gus Winckel shooting Under heavy fire, Smirnoff miraculously managed to take off and was pursued down from the ground the Zero of landed the badly damaged plane on an by a Zero piloted by Osamu Kudo. Just Osamu Kudo. isolated beach in Carnot Bay on the far as Lamade was about to be shot down It is estimated nearly 100 people died northwest coast. The survivors were Kudo spotted a B24 Liberator, which had (official numbers say 88) in the attack. eventually found, but not before several wounded men from Java aboard, trying There was much panic in Broome after had died from their injuries or thirst. to escape out to sea. It was attacked the air raid and many servicemen and In the confusion, the package, which by Kudo and crashed into the sea with civilians fled south, fearing more air contained $600,000 worth of diamonds, the loss of 31 men. Only two survivors raids or an imminent invasion, but was forgotten. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 27 Lest We Forget: Battle for Australia

Mrs Roach is a veteran of the Australian For Mr Edman, it is also about Women's Army Service and trained as education: “Let's never forget how an instrument operator at Buckland Hill vulnerable we were back then, and let's Battle in the Perth suburb of Mosman Park. never let history repeat itself either.” for Australia

South Metropolitan Region MLC Phil Edman has championed the need to recognise the battles to defend Australia 75 years ago. In September last year he expressed concern in the Legislative Council that the 'Battle for Australia' day, which was supposed to be observed on the first Wednesday of September, had not been properly observed in WA since its declaration in 2008. “We had more than 97 air raids on Australia and more than 1,200 people die on our soil. I believe that recognition is significantly important.” Mr Edman began collecting World War II artefacts to tell the story of Australians who died in key battles  West Australian WWII veterans Peter Hackett and Ronnie Roach were keen attendees against the Japanese Imperialist forces. at the 'Battle for Australia' service at Kings Park. He displayed them in Rockingham and in May this year at the WA Museum, which was visited by 5,000 people. On Wednesday, September 7, he initiated a 'Battle for Australia' commemorative ceremony at the State War Memorial in Kings Park. He invited along West Australian WWII veterans Peter Hackett and Ronnie Roach. Both Mr Hackett and Mrs Roach helped to defend the West Australian coastline from the invading Japanese. Mr Hackett was just 19 at the first bombing of Darwin and was among the first Australians to take up arms in an effort to ward off the incoming Japanese aircraft from attacking mainland Australia. He said the memorial service was as much about education as it was about commemoration. “In my mind, the average Australian knows nothing about what happened within Australia on the mainland,” he  RSLWA CEO John McCourt, Phil Edman MLC and State President Peter Aspinall at the said. 'Battle for Australia' service. Share your RSLWA news and views on facebook! www.facebook.com/rslwa 28 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Daunting Honour Avenues inquiry There’s never a dull moment with the There is also a number of people who Honour Avenues group. enlisted under a false name and so the Not only do they manage all of the 1,690 group has to do some detective work to make sure they have the correct names Honour Avenues plaques in Kings Park listed. To get this information means and hold quarterly dedication ceremonies they have to access records from all sorts where they research all of the new of different sources. The tricky ones can plaque recipients, they are now working take hours of research. on creating a comprehensive database of all the names from WWII listed on the Each of the names in the database will State War Memorial. now have the rank, service number, full name, unit and how they died. This This is a monumental task as the some will be for all 4,000 names. This is a 4,000 names listed on the bronze tablets monumental task that the volunteer only have the initials and surname group has undertaken which will provide and in many cases it is very difficult a lasting legacy in that all of the names   to determine who the name actually on the State War Memorial for WWII De-Ann Raphael and Ken Jones in the Honour Avenues offices where they belongs to. For example, A. D. Jones will be accurate and accessible. could belong to at least four people as have been undertaking this mammoth there are four listed on the Australian The bronze plaques with the names task. from WWII were originally unveiled War Memorial Honours Role. by His Excellency the Governor (Lieut- honorary architect, he was the son of Sir RSLWA does not have an electronic General Sir Charles Gairdner) at an Talbot Hobbs, who designed the State database of all of the names on the official ceremony on November 6, 1955. War Memorial. SWM and so it is very difficult for us to The plaques and the additions to the If you are interested in searching the help out when we have inquiries, usually memorial cost 30,000 pounds, much database of the names along the Honour from relatives, to say with certainty who of which was raised through a public Avenues go to http://www.bgpa.wa.gov. the name belongs to. appeal. Colonel Athol Hobbs was the au/honour-avenues-plaques. The Best Xmas Gift Ever Usually every Christmas I get beer, chocolates or tickets for the cricket, but this year my son surprised me completely! After a picnic in the park and a fish by the creek with my children and grandchildren, I came home and found that they had changed my toilet seat… I was gob smacked; it had a remote and everything! My son told me that this new seat would wash and dry me with just the push of a button, he said that he had purchased one for his family just last week and they loved it so much that he just had to get one for me to! Well, two weeks later I don’t know how I ever survived without it… All I have to do is sit down on my nice warm seat and go to the loo, once I am finished I simply press a button and I get a warm water wash and warm air dry! Now my toileting is a time of luxury, it is the best Christmas present I have ever bloody got! Marvin Ross Installs in minutes  Warm air dryer  Warm water wash Voted Best Bidet  Soft closing lid in the world 2 years in a row  Heated seat 08 6315 4251 Quote For Discount www.thebidetshop.com.au 612RW The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 29 Volunteers supporting veterans Under its new leadership, RSLWA is voluntary work being done for veterans conflicts since the East Timor conflict in committed to putting veterans first – and serving personnel. The RSL has 1999. Most of these men and women are front and square. more than 130 sub-branches in WA, aged between 25 and 50. Part of that process is reaching out to many of which provide welfare and We appreciate that lists change regularly all ex-service organisations to do things advocacy services and can be contacted and The Listening Post would be better together. The Listening Post via www.rslwa.org.au delighted to update the following list publishes the following list of ESOs, In WA, there are an estimated 7,000 to and possibly republish it in a subsequent provided by the Minister for Veterans’ 10,000 veterans who have been deployed edition. office, to highlight the magnificent overseas in warlike and non-warlike

16th Battalion Foundation Australian Peacekeeper Fremantle Legacy Partners of Veterans Soldier On Mrs Mary Goldthorpe & Peacemaker Veterans' Mr Arthur Peters Association of Australia Inc Mr Ray Wilson Secretary Association President Ms Cheryl Cocodis WA Reintegration Centre [email protected] Mr Craig Foster [email protected] Secretary Manager Co-ordinator [email protected] [email protected] 2/16th Australian Infantry [email protected] HMAS Canberra-Shropshire Battalion Association Association WA Division Inc Partners of Veterans Submarines Association of Mr James Grayden Australian Special Air Service WA Branch Association WA Inc Australia WA Branch Secretary Association Mr Lee Webster Ms Kerryn McDonnell Mr Paul Meakin [email protected] Mr Gerard Bampton President Secretary Secretary President [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 2/28th Battalion Association [email protected] Ms Enid Russell HMAS Hobart Association Perth Legacy Survivor Foundation Secretary Bindoon Mobile Recovery Mr Rob Ratkovcic Ms Samantha McClymans of Australia [email protected] Campaign Inc Executive Officer Chief Executive Officer Mr Gareth Watts Mr Storn Petterson [email protected] [email protected] 2/4th Machine Gun Battalion [email protected] Secretary Ex-Members Association Inc. [email protected] RAN Women's Association WA Vietnam Logistic Support Ms Sylvia Norton Boer War Memorial Society Mrs Valma Graham Veterans Association Secretary of Western Australia HMAS Perth Survivors' Club President Mr Haydn Smith [email protected] Mr Kevin Bovill Mr Craig Bancroft [email protected] Secretary Secretary Treasurer [email protected] Aboriginal and Torres Strait [email protected] [email protected] Returned Ex-Servicewomen's Islander Veterans and Services Sub-Branch RSL Vietnam Veterans' Association Mandurah – Murray Vietnam Association of Western British Airborne Forces Mrs Judy Bland of Australia Australia Inc Association Veterans Group Inc President Mr Richard Williams Ms Dianne Ryder Mr Mick Coyle Mr Fred Abbott [email protected] President President Secretary [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Royal Air Force Association Mandurah – Murray Vietnam (WA Division) Vietnam Veterans' Federation Allied Merchant Seamen's British Ex-Services Veterans Group Inc Mr David Peet of Australia Association Inc Association of Western Mr Colin Gibson President Mr Milton Kirk JP Mrs Ann Page Australia Inc. [email protected] [email protected] President Ms Moira Butler Secretary No email address [email protected] Secretary National Association of Royal Australian Armoured [email protected] Extremely Disabled War Corps Association War Widows' Guild of Australia Clearance Divers Veterans Inc Mr Richard Jones Mrs Jenny Knight Alongside Association WA Mr Gordon Winterson President Secretary Mrs Sarah Yates Mr Jason Dunn Secretary [email protected] [email protected] Chief Executive Officer President [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Royal Australian Army Nursing Women's Auxiliary Australian Corps Association Air Force Branch Australian Army Training Team Dat News National Malaya & Borneo Mrs Olga Greig OAM Mrs June Perry Vietnam Association Mr Neil Henry Veterans Association Secretary President Mr John Riley [email protected] Australia Inc [email protected] [email protected] Secretary Mr Bill Adamson Defence Force Welfare [email protected] President/Secretary Association Royal Australian Artillery Women's Royal Australian [email protected] Mr Richard Usher Association (WA) Air Force Branch, Australian Ex-Services Atomic President Mr John Blylevens RAAF Association Survivors Association Inc National Servicemen's [email protected] Secretary Mrs Judy Bland (WA Branch) Association of Australia Inc [email protected] President Mr Jim Marlow WA Branch Ex-Prisoners of War [email protected] Secretary Association of Australia Mr Stuart Fairbarn Royal Australian Regiment [email protected] Association WA Branch Mr Ray Galliott Secretary Women's Royal Australian Mr Jack Babbage Secretary [email protected] Army Corps Australian Federation of Totally Secretary [email protected] Mrs Judy Welch and Permanently Incapacitated [email protected] Naval Association of Australia President Ex-Servicemen and Women Far East Strategic Reserve WA Branch Royal Australian Signals [email protected] Mr Frank Mepham Navy Association Mr Jack Le Cras OAM President Mr Phillip Smith BEM Association WA Branch Secretary [email protected] President Mr Peter Lofdahl [email protected] [email protected] President Australian Navy in Vietnam No email address Veterans' Welfare Association Fleet Air Arm Association of Overwatch Support of Western Australia Inc Australia Inc. WA Branch Association Australia Inc Royal Marines Association Mrs Carole Matthews Mr Keith Taylor Ms Karen Court Mr Cyril Hooper Secretary Secretary Secretary - Executive Committee Secretary [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 30 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

Sub-Branch News What makes Australians unique?

What makes us Australians? It’s a topic Dr Brendan Nelson AO mulled over during his 70-minute address hosted by the Cottesloe RSL Sub-Branch on November 18. Dr Nelson, director of the Australian War Memorial, former AMA president, diplomat and Federal Opposition Leader, received a standing and enthusiastic ovation after delivering the annual Frederick Bell VC Memorial Lecture at Cottesloe War Memorial Hall and Civic Centre. More than 200 people listened intently as Dr Nelson dissected what it means to be Australian. He said Australia’s WWI historian Charles Bean saw all of the horrors of WWI and later pondered about the  Pictured from left are: MC Robert O’Connor QC, Cottesloe Town Council’s Sherilee character of men and women, their Macready, archivist and historian Shannon Lovelady, Dr Brendan Nelson AO, Cottesloe qualities and values, essential not just RSL’s President Jon Sciortino and the Mayor of Cottesloe Jo Dawkins. for victory in battle but for life itself. Character, he said, transcended money, the essence. You don’t let your mates served as Ambassador to the EU, rank, power, influence or talent. down.” Belgium and Luxembourg as well as Australia's special representative at the Character was informed by 15 intrinsic Dr Nelson said that powerful character World Health Organisation and NATO, values: resource, candor, devotion, trait was epitomised by Perth-born curiosity, independence, comradeship, Frederick Bell, the first West Australian also commented on the election of ancestry, patriotism, chivalry, loyalty, awarded the VC, when during the Boer Donald Trump as President of the United coolness, control, audacity, endurance War in 1901 he risked his own life by States. “It is one further manifestation and decision. giving up his horse to ensure a fallen that the world is not only changing but soldier could get to safety. Dr Nelson moving to a new era.” Bean concluded that what made the Australian digger so special, “lay in the mettle of the men themselves”. Bean said: “To be the kind of man who would give way when his mates were trusting to his firmness... to live the rest of his life haunted by the knowledge that he had... lacked the grit to carry it through - was the prospect these men could not face. Life was very dear, but life was not worth living unless they could be true to their idea of Australian manhood.” A century later, SAS Sergeant ‘S’ reflecting on the battle of Tizak in Afghanistan said: “To fail would be worse than death. To let down your mates in combat... would be worse than death... that’s it – that’s  Dr Brendan Nelson with Cottesloe RSL Sub-Branch President Jon Sciortino. Veterans Exercise Programs 32 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Pingelly unveils walk plaques In 2010 Pingelly’s RSL Memorial Walk including the rose garden leading to the rotunda from the road was built as a volunteer community project. Temporary metal plaques of individuals who served in wars and conflicts were displayed on the pillars. On October 14 Pingelly RSL Sub- Branch together with Rick Wilson MP, member for O’Connor, Terry Waldron MLA and RSLWA CEO John McCourt unveiled the new bronze plaques.  Pingelly plaques: from left are John McCourt, RSL WA CEO, Terry Waldron MLA, The Pingelly Community celebrated the Andrew Marshall, Pingelly RSL President, Damien Spencer, Pingelly RSL Secretary, completion of the combined community Cliff Ferguson, long standing Pingelly RSL member, Evan Hodges, President, Pingelly project that had started with the passion Community Resource Centre and Rick Wilson MP, Member for O’Connor. Seated at of Pingelly RSL member Gail Kemp front is Pingelly RSL’s oldest member George Smith. who wanted to ensure that our local service men and women were honoured records of individuals from Pingelly proud on our main street. This project in a respectful manner. who served in all conflicts, put together was proudly supported by community The unveiling of the Memorial Walk by Mr Alan and Mr Brian Higgins. donation, Shire of Pingelly, Lotterywest was followed by a morning tea in the Pingelly RSL and the community groups and the Department of Veteran Affairs. Pingelly Town Hall, and an opportunity who assisted them have created a great Lou Johnson to view an exhibition of historical legacy for our community that stands Pingelly Community Resource Centre

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by Royceton Hardey

You have to feel sorry for Kings Park. With hundreds of young people trampling through its gardens, looking for virtual creatures on their phones you can imagine the incredulity it must have when its natural beauty is sidelined.  Children loved the games provided at the RSL’s Picnic in the Park. So when RSLWA Women’s Network was making a beeline towards a variety of In addition to the life size games a line granted funding from the Department life size games that were glistening in quickly developed for the face painting of Veterans’ Affairs to host an event the sun. They were games you just know artist Amber who also came with to celebrate Veterans’ Health Week a how to play, and more importantly want impressive balloon twisting skills. challenge was created. to play. In one corner laid out on the Chair of the RSLWA Women’s With this year’s theme being social park grass were snakes, not real ones, Network Group Gabby Ryan said, “The connection, the Women’s Network but the ones you avoid when you play numbers were a little low but once wanted to demonstrate how games can snakes and ladders. the word spreads that these events are be used for social interaction between Other games attracting interest included on, hopefully more people will take two people as opposed to a one way connect four, checkers and colourful advantage of these activities that are experience on a smartphone. sacks for sack racing. organised. The result was a Picnic in the Park event As more and more families arrived it “We as a committee are looking forward held at the Ivey Watson Playground was a delight to see smartphones put to coming up with more events for RSL across form Stickybeaks Café. back in pockets as children who had families to be involved in, if you or your The weather was a perfect 28 degrees on only met minutes before developed sub-branch have any ideas for future Sunday, October 23 and from a distance friendships while strategising their next evens please do not hesitate to contact you could see children and families move on connect four. the Women’s Network Committee." ANZAC exhibit goes country Hundreds of thousands of people have 2014 to 2018 - is the most significant enjoyed the Spirit of ANZAC Centenary period of commemoration in our nation’s Experience travelling exhibition – which history. The Spirit of ANZAC Centenary is heading to Bunbury and Kalgoorlie in Experience travelling exhibition is one way the New Year. the Australian Government is recognising The free exhibition opened in Perth on a century of service by our servicemen November 29, with more than 25,000 and women. people booking immediately. The exhibition honours and commemorates • Eaton Recreation Centre, Bunbury the service and sacrifice by generations of January 11 to 16, 2017 Australian servicemen and women who • Goldfields Oasis, Kalgoorlie have defended our values and freedoms January 30 to February 5, 2017 in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping The ANZAC Centenary - spanning operations from the Boer War to today. special community events at free anzac exhibition Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre

AMBASSADOR TALKS Tuesday 29 November 2016 1:30pm 3:00pm Hon Tim Fischer AC Major General Brian Dawson AM former Deputy Prime Minister, CSC (Retd) Envoy of the Spirit of Anzac Centenary Experience Executive Manager, Australian War Memorial Book your free tickets for the 2:00pm session Book your free tickets for the 3.30pm session

COMPLIMENTARY AFTERNOON TEA Tuesday 29 November, Wednesday 30 November & Tuesday 6 December From midday to 5pm Book your free tickets to the exhibition from midday to enjoy a complimentary afternoon tea. If you cannot attend during these times, please book another session from 29 November - 11 December. Book your tickets now at www.spiritofanzac.gov.au or call 1300 462 313

@spiritofanzac

spirit of anzac

#spiritofanzac 34 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

Remembrance DAY WA

 Commanding Officer HMAS Perth, Captain Ivan Ingham, AM, RAN, is greeted on the 2016 wharf by his wife Celia.

 Greenbushes Primary School students place candles, flowers and a cross at the town’s War Memorial during their  These wreath layers epitomise the emergence of women in the RSL at all levels. Remembrance Day Service. 34 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 35

 Able Seaman Boatswains Mate Cameron Duggan and his fiancé Pip Garvey on the wharf after HMAS Perth returned to her home port of Fleet Base West.  It’s impossible to keep some people down and Kokoda Track veteran Bill Grayden (96), in the middle of the wreath layers, is surely one of them. Bill served with the 2/16th Bn and in Syria, the Kokoda Track, Ramu-Markham Valley (New Guinea) and Balikpapan.

Remembrance Day 2016 brought great joy and sadness. Joy as family and friends welcomed home the 191 men and women onboard the frigate HMAS Perth after six-months deployment on Operation Manitou. Sadness as thousands of people attended more than 50 ceremonies around the State to honour all those who have died and suffered in war. These are  About 60 members of the military volunteered to help some of the images from that day. veterans by collecting donations on Poppy Day in Perth.

 Those remarkably dedicated sub-wardens keep on keeping on at the State War Memorial and were this year joined by Mrs Shirly Mooney. 36 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 The ANZAC Centenary’s big

by RSLWA Centenary Program Manager Sharon Harford

The ANZAC Centenary has left a lasting impact on Western Australia. Since its opening in 2014, the National ANZAC Centre in Albany - a project driven by Albany RSL Sub-Branch members – has been rated by Lonely Planet as one of the must-see places in the world. The centenary also has seen huge events and projects. Most people are also unaware that the RSL played a pivotal role in bringing The Giants to Perth to commemorate the 2015 Centenary of the Gallipoli landing. The three-day event in February 2015 by French production company Royale de Luxe mesmerised 1.4 million people and kicked off a massive year. Persistent lobbying by the RSL to tell the ANZAC story through the two giant marionettes was a coup because Perth then held the biggest arts spectacle in Australia which included Graham Edwards reciting the Ode in front of the biggest crowd in memory.  Little Girl Giant pauses outside ANZAC House. 2015 included the most well-attended ANZAC Day Dawn Service ever at Commemorative Service, and to Anne of the RSL which was shown on the Kings Park with 70 to 80,000 people Leach, during the Sunset Services which evening and with complimentary copies turning out. The event was broadcast were first introduced in 2014. distributed to all sub-branches. live by Channel 9. Unusually large numbers watched the city Parade and The RSL Spirit of ANZAC Grevillea 2016 is also the year that sees the Commemorative Service as well as more was launched in March 2015 and delivery of new advocacy and welfare than 120 services conducted throughout became a quick seller in native nurseries services and the closure of ANZAC Western Australia - all supported by a and places like Bunnings throughout the House for development of a seven-storey $1.5million Lotterywest grant. country. RSLWA continues to receive head office, including a one-stop shop 90 cents for every plant sold. More than for all veterans. In 2015 the Cultural Precinct and Forest 20,000 plants have been sold. Chase were activated to provide a long During this three-year period, we have weekend of ANZAC-related family In 2016 the focus shifted to the benefitted from amazing contributions events. The whole of Perth came alive Centenary of the RSL and included the by people and organisations. These with activities that were organised in production of a commemorative coin by include: partnership with the City of Perth, the the Perth Mint and a series of stamps Shannon Lovelady, a Presbyterian Department of Culture and the Arts and from Australia Post. Ladies College archivist who led a team numerous other stakeholders. A major celebratory event was the of dedicated volunteers/researchers The centenary saw RSL membership Centenary Ball held at Crown. We who determined that 1,023 Western grow beyond 10,000 for the first time had 550 guests and we raised $70,000 Australian men died at Gallipoli. Their in many years. 2015 also saw standing towards the welfare of our veteran names were recorded by students from ovations given to Afghanistan veteran community. Channel 9 created a the Greenmount Primary School and Dave Singer, key speaker at the short documentary about the history played at the Kings Park Dawn Service. 36 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 37 impact on Western Australia 70th Anniversary of VP Day. A service was held at the Flame of Remembrance which was followed by a morning tea at the State Reception Centre. All WWII veterans in the State were invited to attend. ANZAC House has hosted Military Antiques Roadshows as part of Perth Heritage Weekend for the past two years and this year it worked with the North Beach RSL Sub-Branch which hosted a 50th Anniversary of Long Tan and Vietnam Veterans Day service for the first time and also created a plaque for the occasion. The Centenary years continue through to its logical conclusion – the 100th  One on the wreaths made by RSL poppy ladies was given to the girl Giant by students anniversary of the end of World War from Carine High School when she stopped outside ANZAC House. I on November 11, 2018. RSLWA will once again be called upon Ken Jones and the Honour Avenues RSLWA worked with Peter Hind, to lead community activities around team are currently compiling a list of Glenn Robinson, Ted Tait and Stuart what will be a very significant ending to Western Australians who died in World Rhine-Davis to distribute 35 bugles the Centenary of ANZAC. War II to create an electronic database. to schools and cadet units. On August 15, 2015 we held the State event for the Our fabulous RSL Poppy ladies from around the State have created thousands of poppies which were displayed in Albany (for the 2014 Albany Convoy Centenary), Melbourne (2015 ANZAC Day in Federation Square) and then to the 2016 Chelsea Flower Show in London. The ladies in 2015 created 1,354 sets of scarves and beanies and 326 beanies which were posted to grateful serving ADF personnel based overseas. Our ladies continue to knit these and have since sent some to the farming community in Queensland and also to the 'Help Save our Veterans' project here in WA. Now they are working on creating 60,000 poppies for the Centenary of Armistice Day in 2018. This project has enabled RSLWA to form links and friendships with hundreds of ladies who would otherwise not be involved with the RSL – and has run in parallel with the development of  The flamboyant artistic director of French company Royale de Luxe imposed himself the RSLWA Women’s Network and the on Perth in February 2015 when The Giants came to town. He is pictured at Kings Park elevation of women to the Board and as with Jonathan Holloway, Graham Edwards and Premier Colin Barnett. Royale de Luxe sub-branch presidents. held secret rehearsals at Cockburn Sound in conjunction with members of the ADF and the Bunbury 10th Light Horse Memorial Troop, again facilitated by the RSL. In the lead In 2015 McDonald’s Community up to the event the RSL began engaging with hundreds of women in an effort to create Cinemas extended their film season thousands of poppies to go to Melbourne for the Centenary. These poppies were also by a week with films dedicated to used to create three giant wreaths. One was given to the girl Giant when she stopped commemoration and generated $14,222 outside ANZAC House in a very moving gesture with the students from Carine High for the RSL. School and a piper from PLC who climbed up in to her boat and played the Lament. 38 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

Remembrance DAY WA Honour ALL veterans We honour our old veterans, we honour them with pride and read of all the horrors they have carried deep inside. We know they served in Asia or New Guinea’s highland rains, Vietnam or in Africa where many men were slain.

We know that fateful landing on Gallipoli’s dark shore, wherever Aussies fought, we know there are so many more, but now a new young generation needs our help as well, they too have been to war and suffer with their private hell.

Though losses are not classed as great, their fears are just the same those electronic hidden bombs, still injure, kill or maim. They fight against an enemy they find so hard to see who mingle in the market place, then cause much tragedy. Insurgents in Afghanistan hide in the rough terrain or roaming in Iraq, where, wearing robes they look the same.

The suicide stealth bombers, don’t care who they hurt or kill, then, with their own beliefs, they try to break our forces will. I know… we all remember with a tear, But all vets young or old, they need our help throughout the year, support and listen to their stories, when they do get told, let’s honour our new veterans, just like we do our old.

 This poem by Australia’s David J Delaney, titled 'New Generation Veterans' was read on Remembrance Day by the Governor of Western Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC. 2018 will mark the 100th anniversary of Remembrance Day. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 39 Afghanistan veteran recalls the

Remembrance tragedy and joy DAY WA “So Remembrance Day means a lot to to whom they owe their dear fought me, what does it mean to you? Have you freedom. ever sat and thought about the meaning It is due to the men, and from them, as Remembrance Day brings both of this day, I have and here is what men. Remembrance Day means to me.” joy and sadness, Afghanistan But far and away, above all else, it is veteran Scott Credlin told Scott said for him it meant remembering due to those who gave their all, sought mates - his brothers; those who he had the Three Springs-Arrino no recompense, and with whom we lost over the years. The fallen who had can never re-pay - our Glorious and Remembrance Day service. paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect our Immortal Dead. “My deployment in Afghanistan is shores. Our service started with our President tinged with sadness as we lost four It meant remembering the families who Ray Morgan welcoming everyone and soldiers; four mates who all stood, had sacrificed the loss of loved ones saying the Ode, followed by Scott as worked, slept and ate together,” said whether they were sons, daughters, guest speaker. Scott, who served in the Australian husbands, fathers and mothers and were Army for 15 years after enlisting at the not able to have special days with them. Robert Hunt also spoke about three age of 17. It meant remembering the troops serving fallen soldiers whose names are on “I can never forget the experience of overseas, sacrificing their time with Three Springs War Memorial and who being pulled aside and being told of the family and friends, to keep our country had spent time in Three Springs, Arrino mate you were joking with the night safe. or the Carnamah area. before lay dead the next morning, the Scott quoted from the proposal for an Children from Three Springs Primary ripple effect that it causes across the annual Armistice Day, put to Lord Miler School, RSL members and members whole battle group,” he said. by Sir Percy Fitzpatrick and immediately of the public also attended the service “On August 22 we lost one of the snipers approved by King George V, which said which ended with singing the national Matthew Lambert to an IED, he was a It is due to the women, who have lost anthem. close member of our battle group, easy and suffered and borne so much, with It is with sadness we noted we have lost to talk to and was highly loved and whom the thought is ever present. another Digger, Jack Thorpe. respected by all who knew him. It is due to the children that they know Lest We Forget “October 29th we lost Bryce Duffy, Ashley Birt and Luke Gaum to a member of the Afghan Army; these three guys were great to work with and would go out of their way to help others. “As you can see all the deaths were close to Remembrance Day. The commander thought having a service for Remembrance would upset the group of soldiers, but, after listening to the views of the men the service went ahead.” Scott said he could not explain the emotional quietness and frustration that was felt that day. “I never thought you could have a whole base of different nationalities to be quiet in the middle of the war zone, but, it happened – Australians, New Zealanders, Canadians, Americans and Dutch stood as one, not a sound was made, all remembering someone, some shedding a tear, others thankful, but all remembering their mates who have lost their lives on this and other rotations.  Three Springs Primary School children hearing The Ode being recited by Ray Morgan. 40 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Child sees meaning of four words A 12 year-old student at this Remembrance Day to not simply St Kieran Catholic School in let it pass, but so that it has a unique meaning, just like all of us. Tuart Hill was asked to prepare Remembrance an address on Remembrance The third word is a word that really Day and the following was makes you think, it is Remember. DAY WA We will all take a step back from our written without assistance. everyday lives and remember those who Assistant Principal Andrea Woodgate fought, look at their view and really mean, how they affect us. The first word thought it was too good not to share. The Honour them. is: We. In this I don’t mean me, you, I, or Year 6 student wrote: My final word for today is one that all they. We are all in this together. This sheet of paper in front of me has out says why we’re here, because of four particular words that are known for It doesn’t matter where we are from, or Them, yes them. The soldiers, giving bringing people together. who we are, Remembrance Day is a day up all they ever had to give the future a for everyone to take a moment to think brighter look, lifting our spirits, putting Even though it only happens once a year, of the sorrow that will forever remain. us before them. these words bind us in a way like no others; it only takes one minute a year The second word is: Will. We all are The soldiers. to stop. However, we all know what they going to, we all will, what will we do We Will Remember Them.

 Remembrance Day at St Kieran Catholic School in Tuart Hill. A refreshing insight into the Spirit of ANZAC I was fortunate to be among the He covered our nation’s conflicts from that we owe him a debt of gratitude for privileged few who listened to Dr the Boer War to Afghanistan, each the work that he does; transcending Brendan Nelson deliver the annual service in turn received its due credit, politics and serving as a genuinely Frederick Bell VC oration. He brought each conflict receiving a mention. unifying voice in a country beset by his considerable, knowledge, skills, Western Australia and its common division, perhaps more so that at any people were woven into the verbal talents and deep commitment to our other time in our history. tapestry of his oration. A tribute to Thank you Brendan. nation’s social, military history and his stamina, he flew from Canberra to heritage together and wove them Perth, and drove straight from Perth’s Kevin Bovill together into a single theme that airport to the Cottesloe Civic Centre, Vietnam veteran - TPI expressed the 'Spirit of ANZAC' in a delivered his oration and returned to Editor: See 'What makes us Australians way that I have never heard equalled. Canberra the same night. I for one feel on page 30' 89533VeteransHoodie 2016-11-15T09:27:56+11:00

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Remembrance DAY WA

Remembrance Day 2016 in Toodyay was commemorated before about 90 persons at the colourful and historic ANZAC Park and in front of the war memorial. We enjoyed company from locals and visitors including local MP Shane Love. The Toodyay singers set a sombre mood with their opening song ‘Requiem for a Soldier’ and later led attendees in the national anthem and their closing song ‘Lest We Forget’. Our beautiful ‘poppy wall drape' provided a wonderful backdrop to the War Memorial. We noticed that workmen on a nearby railway paused to pay their respects. In the near future the Shire of Toodyay will be improving the memorial surrounds to provide additional level ground to allow for a more comfortable standing area in front of the memorial. Bruce Guthrie  Toodyay RSL’s President Peter Brennan lays the wreath.

 Toodyay service: note the workmen on the railway pausing for the Toodyay service. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 43 Remembrance – through young eyes

Remembrance DAY WA

We were very fortunate this Remembrance Day to have Tayla Walker (granddaughter of Neville Phillips) taking most of the photos at our Remembrance Day 2016 service at the City of Belmont War Memorial in Faulkner Park. It was attended by about 400 members of the public, ex-service members and their families. Editing the 140 or so photos taken by Tayla, the choice of subject matter shown in Tayla’s photos, gave me a possible insight into what the younger generation sees at such remembrance services.  Two members of the public place a poppy on Belmont’s magnificent plaques. Not vivid memories of the horrors of war that many of us have seen and felt; but the beauty of today’s freedom shared by us all and the immensity of the participation by so many countries in maintaining the freedoms that are rightly taken for granted today. Tayla’s grandfather Neville has been on our committee and been membership officer and secretary over recent years. November 11 marks the 98th anniversary of the Armistice which ended the First World War (1914–18). Each year on this day many countries around the world, including Australia, observe one minute’s silence at 11am in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts. The City of Belmont RSL Sub-Branch ceremony was attended by Mrs Glenys Godfrey MLA member Belmont, the Hon. Samantha Rowe MLC, Member for East Metropolitan Region, Cr Phil Marks, Mayor of Belmont, Cr Robert Rossi, Deputy Mayor, Cr Bernie Ryan and Ms Cassie Rowe, President of the Belmont Community Group. Formal wreaths were laid by Mr Alan Richardson OAM JP President the City of Belmont RSL Sub-Branch, Cr Marks, Mrs Godfrey and Ms Samantha Rowe. Steve Toon  An old soldier cuts an impressive figure: Steve Toon marches during Belmont's service. Vice President & Membership Officer He served 11 years and 3 weeks in the British Army. 44 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

 Lancelin’s service was followed by the spreading of John Oswald’s ashes. PHOTO COURTESY WWW.KYMILLMAN.COM. Lancelin spreads ashes on big day

The Lancelin & Districts RSL Sub- Oswald, a long-time member of the RSL, Branch service and flag raising proceeded to the beachfront to spread ceremony on Remembrance Day was Remembrance John’s ashes. really well supported by the township WA Then it was on to the Endeavour Tavern and local primary school. It was DAY to have a cleansing ale and fellowship. gratifying and so appreciated by the A meaningful day enjoyed and respected membership. low over the gathering to the delight by many. Just as the national anthem was being and surprise of all. After the service, Norm Pearce sung a formation of three pelicans flew family and friends of the late John Secretary – Lancelin & Districts RSL Talented bugler from Churchlands High In the picturesque setting of the issued with poppies by our members for of brass Plaques on our background Wall Scarborough RSL Memorial Garden, that purpose, of Remembrance, dressed with single our sub-branch conducted our 72nd There was an address tendered by a red poppies. ceremony in the standard format with a student of Doubleview Primary School The national anthem was sung by the few variations. followed by another by our President. student choir of Doubleview Primary Nearby Churchlands Senior High School School. We were also honoured by the provided services of a talented bugler unexpected presence of a group of The service concluded with an invitation who sounded the customary calls and to all present to enjoy morning tea at the mobile Vietnam Veterans who added was followed by wreath laying of our adjacent bowling club. flavour and dignity. President, followed by local dignitaries Malcolm Till and the general public who had been It was touching to see all the hundreds Scarborough RSL The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 45

 RSL member Russell Price reciting The Ode at the Remembrance Day service in Greenbushes.

Remembrance DAY WA Metal reminder for Greenbushes The Greenbushes RSL hosted a Remembrance Day Service with participation of students from the town’s Primary School. RSL member Ron Adair told the gathering the metal soldier on the top of the town’s historic war memorial had reminded people for the past 94 years of the sacrifices made by many thousands of Australian men and women during wars. Students read poems and laid flowers and candles to commemorate Remembrance Day. The school hosted a morning tea for the  Students Edyn Hardy and Tessa Scovell read a poem entitled 'Poppies' at the community after the service. Greenbushes Remembrance Day Service. 46 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Children place crosses at Karrakatta The Nedlands RSL Sub-Branch Remembrance Day service was well attended and blessed by a Remembrance brilliant sunny morning. As in previous years the service was DAY WA conducted with the support of the City of Nedlands and was held in the recognition of sacrifice and the deep the grounds of the Australian War respect that is felt for those who have Graves Cemetery at Karrakatta. sacrificed their lives for Australia. Once more the cemetery grounds were Year 5 and 6 students from Hollywood in flawless condition, a tribute to the Primary School, as part of the Australian work of the War Graves team. National War Memorial project, placed Commemorative Crosses with personal As well as 150 members of the messages, on each grave site prior to the community who attended, guests service. included representatives of State and This project is intended to ensure that Federal Parliamentary members and none among the fallen are forgotten of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the aim is to extend it to every the Mayor of the City of Nedlands and Australian war grave worldwide. students from our four local primary Many who attended the service spent schools. time reading the very moving student The address by Peta Alderman, messages. State Manager WA for the Office of Barry Nunn  Crosses bearing personal messages Australian War Graves expressed for all Secretary were placed on each grave site.

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 President Warren Campbell; Gary Warner with NZ Flag; Bob King with Aussie Flag; Secretary Anthony Wilton; John Boyce with UK Flag: Junior V/P Warren Potter BM. Armadale RSL ‘firsts’ as clouds pass

More than 200 people attended wreaths were laid by individuals on the Armadale Remembrance Day Remembrance behalf of their organisations prior to Service at the memorial in the individual members of the public coming forward. Following the Ode, read by the Armadale Memorial Park. The DAY WA President and the Last Post and Reveille service was held in sunshine with the public were then invited back to only brooding clouds passing by. MC for the service was new Secretary the clubrooms to partake of lunch and Anthony Wilton so it was a ‘first’ for refreshments. New President Warren Campbell gave both of them. The Rev Jan Boyle of St Tom Rynn the Remembrance Day address and the Matthews Church gave the prayer and Membership Officer It’s for all Australians says Ellenbrook RSL

The Ellenbrook RSL Sub-Branch is of 700 consisting of veterans, politicians, Last Post, Rouse and the wreath refocussing its attention on our place in community members and local students laying had special significance. The the community and our branch’s future. about the importance of the occasion for Ellenbrook RSL is grateful to all parts With a recent changing of the guard, all generations of Australians. of this community which has strongly supported us again. new President Chris Coote (an In the scenic surrounds of the Woodlake Cass McQueen Afghanistan veteran) spoke to a crowd Memorial Amphitheatre the message, Secretary 48 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

 The service was well attended at North Beach

Remembrance DAY WA North Beach draws crowd North Beach RSL Sub-Branch conducted its annual Remembrance Day Service at the memorial on Charles Riley Reserve at North Beach. The service was attended by the Federal Member for Stirling, veterans and families as well as  Members of the North Beach RSL on Remembrance Day. local schoolchildren and the local community. Following the service, plaques were unveiled to commemorate the service of our deceased members. Earlier, members turned out in numbers for their Poppy Day collection at the Karrinyup Shopping Centre. North Beach RSL has enjoyed considerable success this year and now has more than 260 members. Rob Sweet Secretary  Members again turned out in force for Poppy Day collections. Flanders Fields at Quinns Rocks The annual Remembrance Day Reef and Councillor Natalie Sangalli Harmer, as well as Ian Wragg our Vice Service which is held in the grounds who represented Mrs. Tracey Roberts President whose recital of 'In Flanders of the Quinns Rocks Sports Club was JP Mayor of the City of Wanneroo. The Fields' was appreciated by everyone again very well attended not only by Service was conducted Gerry Doyle of present. a representation of students from the the Salvation Army, Merriwa whose various schools in our community. prayers were very appropriate to the Our Secretary Lisa Wallis was the occasion, and was well received by organiser for the service along with We were also pleased to see so many Michelle and Brian Shoosmith. of the members of the local community everyone present. including members of the Gumblossom Following the service, lunch was In closing our sub-branch is indebted to Day Care Centre. provided by the sub-branch to all those the Quinns Rocks Sports Club who are fully supportive of our Services and are Our invited dignitaries included John present. always ready to assist if need be. Quigley MLA Member for Butler, A special thank you must go to the Nathan Keehan who represented Albert musical director Justin Tonti along Peter Lofdahl Jacob JP MLA, the Member for Ocean with our Master of Ceremonies, Wally Sub-Branch President The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 49 Remembering the Day

Remembrance DAY WA

 Busselton: Members of 'C' Coy 2 RAR were visiting Busselton as part of their annual reunion.

 Renowned artist Graeme Miles Richards puts the finishing touches on one of six beautiful murals in his Bayswater studio. The murals, painted on aluminium sheets, are now fixed to the ceiling of Esperance RSL’s historic  Busselton Mayor Grant Henley pays his respects. clubhouse. 50 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 More country boys

518 Of the 1970 eligible (at this stage) 435 WFDWA soldiers, 1329 (67%) were born in Australia and NZ  Most of the men from WA who were Western killed at the Western Front were born in FRONT Australia or New Zealand.

The amazingly passionate 148 145 researcher Shannon Lovelady is nearly halfway through her two-year project to identify all 32 31 19 the Western Australians who 1 died at the Western Front a WA VIC NSW SA New QLD TAS NT century ago. Zealand

Already distinct differences have more assertive. While the Gallipoli was 18 years and 6 months old when emerged between those who died at files are filled with the gracious but he enlisted in February 1916 with his Gallipoli and those who died later at the restrained letters from bereaved wives best mate James Harrington. But Ted Western Front. and heartbroken mothers, the letters was really just a kid, aged 15. Both Her team of determined volunteers has relating to the Western Front while were killed in action just five months already established the number of West still gracious, are less apologetic and later at Pozieres on July 29, 1916. Australians who died as a result of their far more assertive. James was 16 years and 8 days old. Gallipoli service. The Listening Post  Ten per cent more soldiers from WA  Eighty two per cent were single. One was privileged to publish, in April 2015, killed on the Western Front were born divorcee so far. the service number, rank, full name, in Australia and NZ than the Gallipoli birthplace, enlistment place and age of  WA’s lost men came from all skill dead. those 1,023 men. levels and across all industries, in  Almost two thirds were born in government and private enterprise. The researchers are now raking country WA – a higher percentage Farmers, orchardists, bakers and through more than 6,500 names, with than Gallipoli dead. grocers – the men who grew their the expectation that between 4,000 food, made their bread and sold it  Appearance: The dominant eye colour and 4,500 died at the Western Front. in their shops. Tailors, hairdressers, is blue. Most are dark haired. Heights With the extraction phase 38 per cent tobacconists and bootmakers; timber range from 5’0” to 6’4”, with most complete, the research has so far fellers and railway workers who built being in the 5’6” to 5’9” range. The highlighted the following differences and operated every facet of their average weight is 65kg and ranges between the Gallipoli and Western Front railways; the brick makers and layers, from 43kg PTE Donald Ewers (20) of dead: carpenters, tilers, glaziers and ceiling 44th Bn to 97kg CPL Eric Carlin (30)  Venereal Disease (VD). Gallipoli plasterers who built their homes and of 51st Bn. lads almost exclusively suffered from the furniture they put in them. Or gonorrhoea. But the Western Front  Top 10 most common first names. those who extended, repainted, wired, soldiers were far more likely to have The most common is John, followed plumbed and repaired older homes. contracted syphilis, which the team by the usual royal favourites: William, They lost the men who printed books, was interested to learn can also cause George, James, Charles… and then handbills and newspapers; school synovitis of the knee, as can TB! the more mundane Thomas, Frederick, teachers who taught their young Both can mimic other diseases and, Francis (or Frank), Robert and Arthur. children and lecturers of university clinically, each other. students.  Who was the youngest West  With more men departing, the women Australian killed during WWI? With  WA also lost a Master Printer, Master in their lives went to war – closer to research incomplete, Edward ‘Ted’ Baker and a Master Butcher, ten home – with the Army and became Giles is the youngest so far. He said he students and one actual ‘schoolboy’: 50 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 51 died at Western Front

Country Perth WA - 328 Metropolitan Area - 187 64% 36%

Places of birth (so far)  The huge sacrifice made by WA’s country towns during WWI is illustrated by this diagram showing that two-thirds of those who were born in WA and killed at the Western Front were country boys.

Albany-born, Scotch College student,   1st FAB Gunner Mark D’Esterre Who was the youngest of more than 4,000 men from WA who killed at the Western Front in WWI? Ted Giles claimed he was 18 years and 6 months old when he enlisted Brady who was 18 years and 2 months but he was just a kid, aged 15. He is pictured here with his mate James Harrington. on enlistment. They were both killed in action at Pozieres on July 29, 1916. PHOTO COURTESY AWM.  Despite the vastly differing conditions and terrain, Killed in Action (KIA) and Died of Wounds (DOW) statistics are very similar to Gallipoli - with 62 per cent KIA, 22 per cent DOW. When complete, the research will provide an authoritative insight into those who died; punctuated by stories of heroism and tragedy that Shannon has mastered with her eye for detail. Because Shannon’s team has transcribed the entire WWI section of the State War Memorial in Kings Park and included those names in their research, this data will also be gifted to trustees of the State War Memorial, the Kings Park Honour Avenues Group and the RSL. “But there are no happy endings here, counting the dead,” says Shannon. “Despite consciously locking my heart away and not looking at the men’s stories until the research-phase of these projects is done, I’ve found it confronting when I’ve seen a brother, or two, and sometimes three – of one of our Gallipoli men on the Western Front list.” The team is on track to complete the  Mark D’Esterre Brady was enlisted as a 'schoolboy' – he was aged 18 years and 2 Western Front Dead from Western months on enlistment. He was an Albany-born, Scotch College student. Australia project next year. IMAGE COURTESY OF COURTESY SCOTCH COLLEGE ARCHIVES. 52 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

Sub-Branch News Lifting the lid on Japan’s lethal attacks from page 22 Gossland reported the Dinah: “…crossed my sights at 300’ range, 10° angle off. I gave a short burst and saw strikes on the port engine, along the fuselage and the starboard engine. The Dinah went into a very steep dive, smoke pouring from both engines, right in front of Red 1 [Meakin] who followed him down firing… I saw strikes… on the port wing which went up in a sheet of flame and shortly after fell off outboard of the port engine… [which] settled on the sea about half a mile from the main crash…” in Vansittart Bay. The Dinah crew, Lieutenants Kyoshi Iizuka and Hisao North Beach award Ito were killed. The aircraft wreckage was recovered to a barge on July 27. The crew's remains were buried Chris Rampant was awarded the President’s award as the on the foreshore of Vansittart Bay in a brief service outstanding clubman at North Beach RSL Sub-Branch. President Paul McGuiness said Chris epitomised the ideal of the RSL conducted by the resident Salvation Army Padre, of mates helping mates. In accepting the award, Chris told Captain Vic Pederson. a packed luncheon at Hillarys Yacht Club that the names of More can be found out about The Territory David House and Sharon Harford should also be on the trophy Remembers program on their website at as major contributors to the success this year of the club’s 50th www.territoryremembers.nt.gov.au or Facebook page. anniversary of Vietnam Veterans Day.

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Sub-Branch News

 About 20 Busselton Army Cadets helped out at their local Remembrance Day service at the Busselton War Memorial. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BUSSELTON DUNSBOROUGH TIMES. Cadets support Busselton Busselton RSL Sub-Branch held on September 29 at the Busselton Treasurer Rick Winch was MC for the has been busy assisting and Police Station. A good crowd attended. service and welcomed approximately advocating for veterans and Several months ago, the Executive 400 people including local politicians, personnel from local aged care facilities conducting events and services. Committee decided that it would like to get more involved with the local Army and local schools. In addition to the Our welfare section has a number of Cadet Unit. Over the last couple of locals, 'C' Coy 2 RAR attended as part primary claims under the Veterans years, the cadet unit has not been active. of their annual reunion. Local Salvation Entitlement Act, Services Rehabilitation However this year it is back in action, Army Chaplain CAPT Jason Dannock and Compensation Act (1988) and thanks to Keith Woods, Shane Talbot recited the Soldier’s Prayer and played the Military Rehabilitation and and Mandy Cant. The unit was visited The Last Post on his bugle. Compensation Act (2004). It has current by members of the executive to discuss In the service three Army cadets recited and completed cases before the Veterans what we could do for the unit. It was the WWI poem, written by LTCOL John Review Board cases and Administrative suggested that the RSL provide annual McRae, 'In Flanders Fields'. During the Appeals Tribunal cases are ongoing. trophies recognising performance/ one minute silence, a flyover of a local Past President and Senior Advocate Bob attendance to the cadets, which would be biplane put a special touch to the service. Wood OAM supported by Advocate presented at an annual BBQ to be held Rick Winch invited all back to the RSL Mrs Bev Streeter remain as mentors and at the RSL Hall. Additionally, it was hall for light refreshments and drinks. are assisting members of the welfare agreed that each cadet would receive a section. Pension Officers Graeme Caddy medallion at the presentation for their Members of the 2 RAR contingent and Rob Lennox continue with ongoing attendance and commitment. arranged for musician Rick Steele to training to Level 2 pension officer grade. provide entertainment. Rick played some On November 4 we held our Poppy Day memorable songs including ones from The office hours have now changed appeal throughout the city with locations the Vietnam era. It was great day. to Tuesday through Thursday, 9am to manned by sub-branch and social club midday. Appointments need to be made. members. Whilst the day started a little On Saturday November 19, the sub- Sue Caddy is joining the team as Admin slowly, the people of Busselton were branch held its annual dinner; the last Assistant. very generous throughout the day. significant event for what has been a very busy year. Korean Veterans Day was In late October 'D' company 7 RAR commemorated on Wednesday July 27 were in town for a reunion. Members The sub-branch will close on December with a small service at the Busselton and partners attended the Friday night 16 and reopen on Friday January 6, 2017. War Memorial attended by several Fellowship at the RSL hall where they On behalf of the President, committee members plus the President of the sub- all had a great time. and members we wish all a very Merry branch, Kevin Casey and our Korean We held our Remembrance Day service and Happy Christmas and safe Happy veteran Kevin Riseley. at the Busselton War Memorial. This New Year. In September, members attended the year about 20 local Army cadets assisted Glenn Woodward National Police Remembrance Service with wreath laying, flag marshalls etc. Secretary BSN RSL 54 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 Riddle solved, 62 years later

It has taken an Assistant Police them, John Heath, spirited it away to event ever organised in Australia. An Commissioner to solve the 62 Victoria. Forty years ago, John decided estimated 75 per cent of the population year-old riddle about a flag to send the flag to his Junee shipmate turned out to catch a glimpse of their Barry Rayment (81), of Gosnells, who beloved Queen. The royal yacht Gothic pinched by some enterprising eventually enlisted the help of Peter received a rapturous reception Australian sailors when the Skehan to find out who owned it. FOOTNOTE: The 1954 tour was a high- newly enthroned Queen of Peter says he didn’t even know about the point of royal adulation in Australia. It the Commonwealth visited flag until recently. is difficult to imagine a visit of such scale occurring today. Elizabeth II Fremantle in 1954. “I wasn’t on board Fremantle at the time. averaged five engagements a day and I was in the honour guard to farewell the Peter Skehan (81), who was chief of made 100 speeches in towns and cities. Gothic. From a young fellow’s point of the Criminal Investigation Branch She greeted 70,000 ex-servicemen view it was a very thrilling occasion.” in Perth before becoming Assistant and women at the Melbourne Cricket Commissioner and retiring in 1994, The Royal tour was the biggest single Ground. reckons the flag probably came from the Dutch passenger cargo ship Maetsuycker. He exploded a myth that had grown in corvette ranks that the flag was 'lifted' from a French warship. (The French and Dutch tricolour flags are similar - but the Dutch colours are horizontal, not vertical). In 1954, there was high excitement in Fremantle. The new Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip had embarked on a six-month grand tour of the Commonwealth. During their 58 days in Australia, the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visited 57 cities and towns across all states and territories, except for the Northern Territory. In Fremantle, two corvettes HMAS Fremantle and HMAS Junee were amongst a large fleet including aircraft  Members of the corvettes HMAS Junee and Fremantle displayed their Dutch flag – carrier HMAS Vengeance, and 'acquired' in 1954 during the Queen’s visit to Fremantle – when they had a reunion on destroyers HMAS Bataan and Anzac. November 28 at the ANZAC Club. In the middle of the group is Barry Rayment (with a lanyard around his neck) and to his left former Assistant Police Commissioner Peter Peter was a Nasho seaman on board Skehan. Barry deciphers the names on the flag as R. J. Heath, Barry Newton, Ross HMAS Fremantle. The flag saga began Moore, Allan Scnall, Don Pearce, Bob Goodier, Bob Hood, Kevin Bethien, Barry Byrne, when 15 members of the Junee on Brian Hesse, Laurie Green, Alan Debnam, Malcolm Edwards and Ronny Baker. One watch stole the flag as a prank. One of cannot be read. Don't miss our BONANZA Edition before ANZAC Day 2017 Listening DECEMBER 2016 Vol 39 - No 4 Deadline next Listening Post Friday, February 4 THEP CENTENNIALOST EDITIONS 2014-18 THE LISTENING POST MAGAZINE We've This is a great opportunity to reach a readership of over 25,000. Level 3, 66 St movedGeorges Tce Perth The Official Journal of The Returned & Services League of Australia WA Branch Incorporated Enquire for details: Royceton Hardey (08) 9287 3700 email: [email protected] The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 55

Sub-Branch News

 Troops on the now Village Green with the Village Hall in the background. COURTESY OF THE AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL. Chidlow – RSLWA's new sub-branch Chidlow is going ahead full steam with its Chidlow & District Returned & Services League (RSL) Sub-Branch as it was presented with its Charter by the State President of RSLWA Peter Aspinall, on Sunday, November 6, 2016. Before he handed over the Charter to Mr Aspinall to present, CEO Mr John McCourt said: “It's not common these days to welcome a brand new RSL sub- branch and Mr President, this is the 133rd sub-branch.” It's hard to believe that this quiet, little place, nestling in the Perth Hills with  (L-R) Bill Scrivener, Corrina Caswell and RSLWA President Peter Aspinall. Lake Leschenaultia, was at one time a bustling hive of training activity for joined the Chidlow Progress Association Mr Scrivener said that he is not army troops destined for the 'front'. Inc (CPA) last year to assist with their surprised an RSL is so popular due to In fact, Lake Leschenaultia was inaugural ANZAC Day Memorial Chidlow's strong military connections originally created in 1898 as a railway Service. going back to the First World War. reserve from where water was pumped “More than 80 locals received into the station yard water towers. The Vice-President Corrina Caswell, who as a former committee member of the honourable mention during both wars village hall was the recruitment centre and 12 did not return,” he said. and also where the 'medicals' took place. Mandurah RSL and wholly responsible for the in-house magazine, has been “The CPA learnt recently how It is the preservation of Chidlow's the right person to work alongside Mr important the Chidlow Army Camp military history that will be included in was to Australia's defence during the future projects of the new sub-branch Scrivener to 'push and pull' to get the Chidlow Sub-Branch started. Second World War. Chidlow, (formerly as well as the completion of an ANZAC Chidlow's Well) was chosen for its memorial hopefully in time for ANZAC “More than 30 people today have shown geographical position and for military Day 2017. interest in becoming members,” she said, and strategic advantages. Sharing this The driving force for these projects, Mr “some only recently out of the forces, experience and Chidlow's military W. O. (Bill) Scrivener, who is President which is both exciting and hopeful for its history will ensure its preservation for of the Chidlow Sub-Branch said that he future success.” future generations.” 56 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

 Crew of HMAS Farncomb and local Army and Navy Cadets. PHOTO COURTESY BOB WALKER. Esperance sparkles as The Esperance community had the HMAS Rankin, Captain Wayne ‘Digger’s Grave’ was mounted above the an exciting few days with the Gardiner of the Australian Army Honour Roll. submarine HMAS Farncomb in Museum of WA and RSLWA, numerous This mural depicted a fallen soldier’s port, a special Remembrance Day veterans, crew from the Farncomb, makeshift resting place. The murals service and a wonderful dinner Bishop Jeremy James with the staff that were part of a greater RSL initiative to Bishop Riley took to WWI, Esperance to fundraise for sufferers of Post- commemorate the 100-year centenary Police Force, Shire President Victoria Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). and leave a lasting legacy for future Brown, CEO Matthew Scott, shire generations. This initiative was driven Submariners from the HMAS Farncomb councillors, local Army and Navy by the dedicated Entrenchment team marched through town on Thursday Cadets and students from local schools. and had a number of objectives: the November 10 for a 'Freedom of Entry' Esperance Primary School head boy Jai creation of the commemorative murals, ceremony. Esperance RSL Sub-Branch McElroy and head girl Elise Quinlivan increasing community awareness 'In Flanders Fields'. A large crowd and the 10th Light Horse - Esperance read education through digital media, raising of supporting locals attended the service Troop also participated in this auspicious the public profile of both the RSL and and the many were brought to tears by occasion. The Esperance community the Army Museum of Western Australia, the Last Post performed by bugler Peter watched on with pride as the parade a musical production, and raising funds Jackson and a moving performance marched through town accompanied for PTSD. by the Navy band, banners flying and given by Narelle Blakely singing the The project achieved all of its aims with swords drawn. The crew were challenged hymn ‘Abide with Me’, accompanied by the exception of the musical production, by the local police force before being Aidan Bridges on piano. which due to lack of funding has been welcomed to the town. The service was followed by the placed on hold. However attendees to official opening of the newly renovated Esperance RSL’s Remembrance Day the PTSD fundraising dinner held on the RSL heritage building, sponsored by Service was led by the next day by our night of the 11th were treated to several Lotterywest and the Shire of Esperance. new President, Shane Miller. musical items from the production. Captivating opening addresses Digger’s Grave The dinner was a great success with were given by Vice President Marg Inside, the crowds were treated to six the fundraising auction raising over Churchland and Commander Ian murals painted by international artist $2,000 towards sufferers of PTSD. Bray of the HMAS Farncomb. Also Graeme Miles Richards, placed on the Another highlight of the dinner was the present were Dr Graham Jacobs ceiling of the building and depicting presentation of a cheque for $10,000 MLA representing the Premier of different Australian conflicts. A to the Army Museum of WA. These WA, Commander Doug Theobald of particularly moving panel entitled funds had been raised by the RSL The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 57

Sub-Branch News

 International artist Graeme Miles Richards painted six magnificent panels for the ceiling of Esperance RSL’s historic clubhouse. This one entitled ‘Digger’s Grave’ is mounted above the Honour Roll. The murals are part of a greater RSL initiative to commemorate the 100-year centenary and leave a lasting legacy for future generations. PHOTO COURTESY OF BOB WALKER. Navy joins RSL festivities

Entrenchment team with the help of dinner being requested to be an The events were the culmination of the Esperance community, to help annual event. The HMAS Farncomb many months of effort and have raised the museum further develop online Freedom of Entry parade was a ‘once- the profile of the Australian Army virtual tour apps. This will enable rural in-a-lifetime’ occurrence in the area. Museum of WA and RSL Esperance communities to access the museum via The Remembrance Day service and Sub-branch, which is striving to gain digital media. commemorative murals were a stirring new members, even reaching out to The events around Remembrance Day reminder to the local community to HRH Prince Henry of Wales, KCVO… in Esperance were considered to be remember our fallen and wounded maybe next year Harry? a great success, with the fundraising servicemen and women.

 Esperance Shire President Victoria Brown presents the $10,000 dollar cheque  Tom Buchanan from 503 Esperance ACU to Captain Wayne Gardiner of the AAMWA. PHOTO COURTESY LEX POREBSKI. lowering the flag.PHOTO COURTESY LEX POREBSKI. 58 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

Sub-Branch News

 Wendy Moss, Rob Cashman and Morgana Ramsey joined cadets from TS Marmion at Maritime Day on Fremantle’s Victoria Quay. Wendy and Morgana are based at the RSL head office. Rob is an RSLWA board member. Young support is ‘humbling’ Fremantle City RSL Sub-Branch in their local RSL, and in particular I Attractions included the submarine partnered up with RSLWA head office acknowledge the skills younger veterans HMAS Sheean, the sail-ship Duyfken, on Maritime Day 2016 at Victoria Quay are able to contribute to their local sub- the Taiko Japanese Dancers, a children’s Fremantle to help raise much needed branch in so many ways.” maritime fancy dress competition, gold funds for Fremantle’s welfare section. Maritime Day followed Remembrance coin admission to the Maritime Museum The sub-branch has been actively Day and comprised numerous displays and a technology display by Rolls Royce engaging the community through a by the Royal Australian Navy, tugs for marine equipment. HMAS Stirling also variety of projects for some time. visitors to explore, free harbour rides, participated with 12 displays on the day. “Our committee has a strong relationship kids’ activities, free entertainment, great Rob Cashman and receives ongoing support from the food and colourful information booths. President - Fremantle RSL Sub-Branch local council, and this relationship is paramount to the continuing success of the sub-branch,” said sub-branch President Rob Cashman. “From Maritime Day and stamping the pavements collecting Poppy Day donations, to the businesses who support our values by stocking our tins and poppies in their premises, this year Fremantle RSL was able to successfully raise more than $4,100,” he said. “Our members locally and RSL members collectively benefit directly from these funds in a variety of ways  Long-time Secretary of Applecross RSL Helen Pickering is taking a break to go through advocacy and welfare programs travelling with her husband, John. both on a State and a sub-branch level. This year we were truly humbled by South America in sight for Helen the number of young people who dug into their pocket money to give what The delightful Helen Pickering got a agenda. But she won’t be away for long they could for this collection, and more royal send-off at the ANZAC Club and is still working on sub-branch so how many of these young people, recently after she completed 10 years plans for the 75th anniversary of the our future leaders knew about the as Secretary of Applecross RSL sinking of the SS Vyner Brook in importance of Remembrance Day in our Sub-Branch and handed the baton to 1942 – with 65 Army nursing sisters community. Barry O’Neill. Helen says she and her on board. Vietnam veteran husband John want The service will be held on Sunday “I strongly encourage the younger to travel, with South America on the February 12, 2017. people in communities to get involved The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 59

Sub-Branch News Bill Stevens a RWARA Life Member The Riverton RSL hosted the annual Royal Western Australia Regiment Association Dinner On Saturday October 15. It was a great evening of camaraderie and a perfect opportunity for Peter Shaw, the President of the Association, to announce hard working RWARA member Bill Stevens as an Honorary Life Member of the association. Patron Brigadier Geoff Hand gave an uplifting speech about the importance of thanking past and present members for their service to Australia. The following month, on November  President of RWARA Peter Shaw (right) after presenting longstanding member Bill 5, the Riverton RSL held its 2016 Stevens (left) with an honorary Life Membership of the Association. Remembrance Day dinner. It was a wonderful evening of commemoration to honour those who have served, fought and died for Australia in all wars and conflicts. The young members of 51 ACU Swan Regiment Drums and Pipes welcomed guests and performed several musical pieces after the main meal. Several young cadets from 509 Army Cadet Unit served the meal to the guests and their polite and professional services were appreciated by all who attended. One of the highlights of the evening was 92-year-old Club Warden Trevor McLean’s outstanding speech on the  President Bill Collidge with Nikki and Peter Raffaelli and Vice President Vance Bond history leading to Canadian physician with the impressive trophy following the shooting competition with the Jarrahdale LTCOL John McCrae writing the poem Sporting Shooters Association. 'In Flanders Fields' in 1915 and the significance of the red poppies today. pistol shoot was a tie between Peter Special thanks also to fellow Club Grover and Ian Gunter, and in the rifle Warden Ian Warden for his very moving shoot, Trevor Hogan took out the top rendition of The Ode. shot. In September, Riverton RSL President The competition was closely fought Bill Collidge and members Vance and the Jarrahdale team managed to Bond, Peter Grover, Ron Mitchell, win by just three points (374 to 371). Trevor Hogan, Graham Green, Matthew At the Riverton RSL Remembrance Willmett and Ian Gunter participated Dinner, President Bill Collidge in a friendly and well-run shooting presented a magnificent trophy – a competition against the Jarrahdale .303 rifle mounted on a wooden Sporting Shooters Association. platform – to Nikki Raffaelli,  Club Warden Ian Raymond who The competition included shots at 50m, Captain of the Jarrahdale Sporting delivered The Ode, President Bill 25m, 15m and 10m targets using .22 Shooters Association. No doubt, next Collidge and Club Warden Trevor rifles and Beretta pistols, and several year’s rematch will be a hard-fought McLean who gave the Remembrance team members scored numerous competition to win the impressive trophy Day speech at the Riverton RSL 2016 bullseyes. Top shot for Riverton in the back again. Remembrance Day Dinner. 60 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

Sub-Branch News

 Great BBQ: Left to right Ian Higley (South African Military Veterans Organisation of Australia WA), Peter Manwaring and David Freemantle (Rhodesian Services Assocation), John McCourt (CEO RSLWA) and Alan Richardson (President of the City of Belmont RSL). Hordes thrill to their first Braai Three great Ex-Service Organisations around 130 veterans, carers, family and plates. Our plates were stacked inches - City of Belmont RSL, South African friends. Many of those attending have high with Boerewors’, charcoal grilled Military Veterans Organisation of travelled extensively but this Southern steak, Sothern African potato and green Australasia WA and the Rhodesian African Braai, or BBQ, was a first for salad accompanied by mouth-watering Services Association Incorporated WA - many of us, providing a unique culinary sadza (mealie pap – a first for many of united as one to hoist a Southern African experience. The hordes went wild for it, us) topped with tomato and onion gravy. Braai on Saturday October 8. with many going back for seconds. Steve Toon We were honoured to have as our guest For the first time that I have seen at a Vice President RSLWA CEO John McCourt along with function, not a morsel was left on the & Membership Officer Mates helping mates at Belmont With the sun reaching a spring high of around 39°C members of the City of Belmont RSL Sub-Branch turned out in numbers to sell poppies and receive donations to help raise the much-needed funds for the RSL appeal at Bunnings Warehouse in Belmont. This year members warmly welcomed the assistance offered by Steve Irons MP, Federal Member for Swan, Glenys Godfrey MLA Member for Belmont and celebrity chef Anna Gare, who was giving a cooking demonstration at Bunnings and enthusiastically gave up some of her time to help with sales of RSL poppies and to talk with generous Belmont residents. Without these appeals the RSL nationally would not be able to provide much of the financial assistance and support to our current and former service men and women and their families. This is what the RSL is all about; mates helping mates. RSL volunteers spend time with ex-service men, women and war widows to ensure those living at home, in aged care facilities or in hospitals stay connected with their community. Steve Toon  There was enthusiastic support for the City of Belmont RSL Sub-Branch Vice President RSL Poppy Appeal at Bunnings in Belmont. The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 61 When Billy talks, you listen by John Arthur books When Billy Young talks about the psychological impact of Billy points to something he wrote years war you listen. ago as his feelings about being a POW. He wrote: “People ask me about the physical injuries I suffered; no-one wants to “I was so fortunate in meeting the men I did. The mates who made a man know about the psychological,” says the from out of a kid. Who taught me how former teenage POW survivor of Outram to take life on the chin. And to accept Road Gaol in Singapore and Sandakan consequences with a grin. Well those Camp in Borneo. days have gone, have passed away. As “Only six of us survived Sandakan (out I will too, but not yet, not until another of 2,500) and one of them came home day.” and shot himself in a room with his 'BILLY: My life as a teenage POW' is daughter present.”  Billy Young as a teenage soldier. published by Sally Milner Publishing Billy Young is the real deal when it Pty Ltd. comes to talking authoritatively about but there’s a fragile side too. At 91, he brutal prison camps and behaviour maintains a lively interest in the world – torture, solitary confinement and around him. starvation. He survived, despite enlisting “When you’re in prison you don’t think at age 15, partly because he was tough; about topping yourself because you are a bit of a larrikin. He was taken prisoner trying to survive. When you come back by the Japanese at 16, for three years. it’s the psychological damage that affects In the riveting book BILLY: My Life all of us.” as a teenage POW, historian Lynette On the Australian War Memorial Silver has compiled a heart-wrenching website is a quote from Billy Young, story based on the personal diary written of the 2/29th Battalion, on surviving by Billy in the 1970s, when he took a Outram Road Gaol: caravan trip around Australia. 'Close confinement coupled with Billy, who lives in Sydney, spoke to The inadequate diet not only cramps the Listening Post about his life, his love of muscles it compresses the mind. Thought art (some of his paintings illustrate his has to be squeezed from a constipated book) and poetry. He frequently laughs brain.'  Billy Young as he is today. Bravo Zulu: Honours and awards to naval people Ian Pfennigwerth, a former naval known in your state as possible,” says Australian Navy service. Some give officer turned naval historian, has Ian. insights into the running of our Navy; published the first volume of Bravo Between 1900 and 2014 over 4,000 others recall inspiring feats of courage Zulu: Honours and Awards to Australian naval people received under fire or bravery in risking their Australian Naval People: Volume 1, honours and awards for their efforts, lives in saving others, on and off duty. 1900-1974. courage, sacrifice and service. For the past seven years Ian and a team Whether a George Cross for defusing of dedicated volunteer researchers It is an outline history of Australia’s have explored the background of naval forces upon which are hung the mines during the World War II UK ‘Blitz’, an American Silver Star for these honours and awards – Imperial, stories behind all the honours and Australian, and foreign. awards presented to Australian naval flying helicopters into intense enemy personnel between the Boxer Rebellion fire in Vietnam, a Distinguished Bravo Zulu Volume 1 comes in two Service Medal for the Iraq War or a editions; the hardcover retails for $75 in China and the Vietnam War. Conspicuous Service Medal for quietly and the paperback for $65. Postage is “There are plenty of Western ‘just getting the job done’, Bravo Zulu $13 for domestic purchasers. The book Australians noted in Bravo Zulu, so I recounts the stories of the men and is available through the author’s website want to make its availability as widely women recognised for their Royal at www.nautilushistory.com.au 62 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

conventions of the time, the article the largest occupational group. The exhorts sub-branches to organise a well proportion of women in non-traditional thought out plan of operations for the work categories such as combat and efficient bodies of womenfolk organised security; engineering, technical and as women’s auxiliaries. “Experience of construction; and aviation is, in most successful women’s auxiliaries shows cases, below 15 per cent. The number of the more work the ladies are given to do, women on key decision making bodies so long as it is necessary and useful, the has experienced very little growth since happier they will be.” 2013–14: from 13.9 to 14.5 per cent. The slowly increasing percentage of women In the 1923 July edition of The Listening serving in the ADF is probably due to Post the Collie Sub-Branch report both internal (eg, more flexible work  RSLWA's archivist Helen Starkie states that “The Branch’s advice is arrangements) and external factors (eg, that other Branches that have not yet civilian workforce pressures). from formed Ladies’ Auxiliaries, is to try it. the archives There is no doubt about their assistance The recent Defence White Paper to a Branch being a decided valuable community consultation process RSLWA archivist Helen Starkie acquisition. The only regret of this considered public perceptions about the continues her review of old Branch is that it did not open its eyes to ADF and the report noted that the ‘long- copies of The Listening Post the fact years ago.” term benefits for defence capability’ included recruiting and retaining women which date back to 1921. Although it is a sad fact that the in the ADF. Much like the RSL today. RSLWA Women’s Auxiliary Sub-Branch From women originally not being officially handed in its charter in 2015 it eligible to join the RSL in their own is heartening to know that in these times right, RSLWA currently has 1700 female Women rise of change that women are RSL members and 7290 male members. in their own right and that the number Reference: Women in the ADF, through RSL of service women in the Australian Commonwealth of Australia, Department Defence Force continues to grow. of Defence. Posted 01/12/2015 by Nicole A feature article in The Listening The first Women in the ADF report Brangwin. Post in March 1928 titled released in 2012–13 showed that Women’s Work in the RSL women represented 14.4 per cent of the outlines the 'unlimited scope for permanent workforce (8,086 women and the work of women in connection 48,086 men). The second report (2013– with RSL activities.' 14) indicated that number had risen to 15 per cent (8,568 women and 48,468 men). A quote from page 16, cites the following… “Although comparatively By 30 June 2015, women made up 15.3 few are entitled by reason of service per cent (8,806 women and 48,598 men) overseas to be actual members of the of permanent ADF personnel. League... many sub-branches of the The categories in which women are League in this State are well served by employed have varied over the past six loyal and efficient bodies of womenfolk decades, although, according to the  The Poppy Day Appeal in Perth raised organised as women’s auxiliaries.” latest Women in the ADF (2014–15) 147 pounds ($294). The Listening Post, Providing a glimpse of attitudes and report, the health sector remains December 20, 1921.

 The Listening Post, December 20, 1921. A new iron cost 32 shillings and 6 pence (which when converted into decimal currency in 1966 became $3.25). The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 63 UNIT AND KINDRED LISTING

Unit and Kindred Name Abbrev Position Address City State P/Code Phone No Email 11th Battalion AIF 13th Brigade WW2 11th Bn AIF 13th BDE WW2 President 1 Harvey St PEPPERMINT GRV WA 6011 9384 3989 [email protected] 2/11th A.I.F. INFANTRY BATTALION 2/11th Bn AIF Assoc Secretary 70 Hawkstone Street COTTESLOE WA 6011 9383 2282 [email protected] 2/16th Battalion A.I.F. Association Inc 2/16th Bn AIF Assoc Secretary PO Box 434 COTTESLOE WA 6911 0400 611 020 [email protected] 2/28TH Battalion & 24th Anti-Tank 2/28th & 24th ATNK COY Secretary 11 Thatched Court BIBRA LAKE WA 6163 9417 3867 [email protected] Company Assoc Assoc 2/2nd Commando Association of Australia 2/2nd Commando Assoc Secretary 43 Marriot Way MORLEY WA 6062 9275 2816 [email protected] 2/3rd Machine Gunners & Relatives Assoc of 2/3rd MC Bn President 201 Keane Street CLOVERDALE WA 6105 9277 1585 [email protected] Western Australia Inc 2/43rd Battalion Assoc WA Division 2/43rd Aust Inf Bn Assoc Secretary PO Box 2236 WARWICK WA 6024 0407 746 206 [email protected] 2/4th Machine Gun Battalion 2/4th MG Bn Secretary 42A Ednah Street COMO WA 6152 9368 4131 [email protected] Airborne Forces Assoc of WA (Inc) Secretary 9 Okewood Way MORLEY WA 6062 9378 1992 [email protected] Allied Merchant Seamen Assoc (WA Branch) Merchant Smn Assoc WA Secretary 2 Geebung Close SINAGRA WA 6065 9404 5140 [email protected] Amercian Returned Military Services ARMS Secretary 12 Binburra Way MT NASURA WA 6112 0421 420 498 [email protected] Australian Ex-Services Atomic Survivors Assoc Atomic Survivers Assoc President PO Box 21 PARKWOOD WA 6147 9455 1337 [email protected] Australian Special Air Service Assoc ASASRA (WA) Secretary PO Box 6137 SWANBOURNE WA 6010 9269 8970 [email protected] (WA Branch) Inc British Ex-Services Assoc Inc. British Ex-Svc Assoc Secretary PO Box 842 KALAMUNDA WA 6926 9291 6670 [email protected] Burma Thailand Railway Memorial Assoc Secretary 6 Coolidge Street COMO WA 6152 0419 927 079 [email protected] Defence Forces Welfare Assoc WA Branch President Irwin Barracks KARRAKATTA WA 6010 93072142 [email protected] Fleet Air Arm Assoc of Australian WA Division Secretary 26 Hefron Street MT HELENA WA 6082 9572 1487 [email protected] Greek Australian Returned Servicemen’s League Greek RSL President L5, Suite 7, 326 Hay Street PERTH WA 6000 9325 2111 [email protected] HMAS Canberra-HMAS Shropshire HMAS Can Shro Secretary 12 Hawker Street SAFETY BAY WA 6169 9528 2323 [email protected] Assoc (WA Div) Inc HMAS Hobart Assoc (WA Div) HMAS Hobart Assoc Secretary PO Box 290 KELMSCOTT WA 6991 9495 2880 [email protected] HMS Ganges Assoc. WA Division Secretary 27 Westbrook Street CALISTA WA 6167 0411 078 269 [email protected] HQ 1 ATF Assoc HQ 1ATF Assoc President PO Box 685 MERIMBULA NSW 2548 0413 200 589 [email protected] Malaya & Boreno Veterans Association WA Inc President 5 Penistone Street Greenwood WA 6024 9247 3374 [email protected] Malaya Volunteers Group Aust. Representative 5 Penistone Street Greenwood WA 6024 9247 3374 [email protected] Mandurah Murray Vietnam Veterans Mandurah Murray VN Secretary PO Box 2203 MANDURAH MAIL WA 6210 0419 122 421 [email protected] Group Inc Vets Gp CENTRE N Class Destroyers Assoc WA Branch (Inc.) N Class Destroyers Secretary PO Box 54 WOOROLOO WA 6558 9573 1653 [email protected] National Servicemen’s Assoc of Australia National Servicemens State Secretary 15 Lawley Road LESMURDIE WA 6076 9291 9524 [email protected] (WA Branch Inc.), Assoc (WA) National Servicemen’s Assoc of Australia (WA Secretary PO Box 1699 MANDURAH WA 6210 9534 9977 [email protected] Branch Inc.) Mandurah/Murray Sub-Branch Naval Association of Australia (WA Section) Inc Secretary PO Box 556 WANNEROO WA 6946 9409 1014 [email protected] North American Veterans Unit North Amercian Veterans Secretary 7 Hallam Close BOORAGOON WA 6154 9330 7997 [email protected] Northern Suburbs Veterans Support Centre NSVSC Secretary PO Box 492 QUINNS ROCKS WA 6030 9305 9015 [email protected] Partners of Veterans Association Western Secretary 182 Lord Street PERTH WA 6000 9228 3350 [email protected] Australia Inc RAAF Nursing Service Branch RAAFNS Branch President 5 Chalwell St ROCKINGHAM WA 6149 0409 086 795 RAAF Ubon Group Secretary 40 Elm St HAMERSLEY WA 6022 9343 1235 [email protected] RAAF Vietnam Veterans Association RAAF VN Vets Assocof Secretary PO Box 2121 WARWICK WA 6024 9409 7299 [email protected] of WA Inc. WA Inc Rhodesian Ex-Servicemen’s Assoc President PO Box 17 CANNINGTON WA 6107 0412 771 523 [email protected] Royal Australian Air Force Assoc (WA) Division RAAF Assoc WA Secretary AFME Bull Creek Drive BULL CREEK WA 6149 9311 4444 [email protected] Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps Secretary 9 Napier Road MORLEY WA 6062 9276 3493 [email protected] Assoc (WA) Inc. Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps Assoc Secretary 16 Lorrimar Place MURDOCH WA 6150 0408 433 272 [email protected] WA (Inc.) Royal Australian Electrical & Mechanical RAEME Assoc Secretary C/- 13 CSSB 113 Workshop Coy KARRAKATTA WA 6010 0418 463 349 [email protected] Engineers Assoc Irwin Barracks, Stubbs Terrace Royal Australian Engineers Assoc of WA Inc Secretary 26 Lithorne Way BALGA WA 6061 9342 5808 [email protected] Royal Australian Navy Clearance Divers Secretary 7 Orly Cove PORT KENNEDY WA 6172 0407 089 967 [email protected] Assoc WA Chapter Royal Australian Regiment Assoc (WA Branch) President PO Box 56 COMO WA 6152 9495 4559 [email protected] Royal Australian Signals Assoc (WA) Inc Secretary 7 Danaher Mews CLARKSON WA 6030 9305 1303 [email protected] Royal Marines Assoc (WA Branch) Secretary 73 Ridgehill Rise ROLEYSTONE WA 6111 9496 0319 [email protected] Royal Military Police Association State 44 Grove Road WALLISTON WA 6076 9291 8962 [email protected] (WA Branch) Representative Royal Western Australia Regiment Association RWAR Assoc Secretary 16 Pomelo Way SEVILLE GROVE WA 6112 0428 898 431 [email protected] South African Military Veterans SAMVOA Chairman 1 Kalimah Bend HARRISDALE WA 6112 0477 999 715 [email protected] Organisation Of Australasia Submarines Assoc of Australian (WA Branch) Secretary 26 Grayswood Retreat ERSKINE WA 6210 9586 9375 [email protected] The Aust Federation of T&PI Ex-Servicemen and Secretary PO Box 2035 ROSSMOYNE WA 6148 9332 4999 [email protected] Women WA Branch Inc. The Royal Green Jackets Association Chairman 8 Rutherford Square ORELIA WA 6167 0416 763 512 The Royal Naval Assoc Perth (WA Branch) Inc Secretary 106 Lansdowne Road KENSINGTON WA 6151 6311 9445 [email protected] The Royal Naval Association, Rockingham Secretary 3 Grafton Rise BALDIVIS WA 6171 9523 0417 [email protected] and District Branch Veterans of Foreign Wars WA Secretary 25 Cervantes Loop YANGEBUP WA 6164 93307997 [email protected] Vietnam Logistical Support Vets Assoc (WA) Inc. Secretary 19 Simagra Way YANGEBUP WA 6164 9437 4186 [email protected] War Widow’s Guild of Australia WA Inc Secretary 15 Plantation Street MENORA WA 6050 9371 7470 [email protected] Western Australian Branch of the Partners of Secretary PO Box 2435 WARWICK WA 6024 1300 553 835 [email protected] Veterans’ Association of Australia Inc WRAAC Association (WA) President PO Box 6149 EAST PERTH WA 6892 0412 984 739 [email protected] WRAAF Branch - RAAF Assoc President c/- RAAFA Bull Creek Drive BULLCREEK WA 6149 9311 4401 [email protected] WRANS-RAN Women’s Assocation WA Secretary 6 Browne Street SUBIACO WA 6008 9380 4414 [email protected] Z Special Unit Association of WA Inc. Secretary 28A Houston Ave DIANELLA WA 6059 9275 1348 64 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

name - J.H.Winter VX5188 - marked on it. However, it is not known what happened to Notices the medal after that. Attempts to track it down  have so far failed. LCPL John Henry Winter No 30 SQN RAAF 75th enlisted in Melbourne on November 24, 1939 Anniversary and served with the 2/6th Australian Infantry No. 30 SQN RAAF will commemorate the Battalion. He was killed in action on the 75th anniversary of its formation on March January 3, 1941 in Libya. 9, 2017. To mark the occasion a Bloodhound Donna can be contacted by email at missile static display and plaque will be [email protected] or 0400 182 984 unveiled at RAAF Base East Sale, followed by an evening function. Past members and  Former State Secretary passes associates of all iterations of 30 SQN are Mrs Cecile Bruce, wife of the RSLWA State warmly invited to attend. To register your Secretary Doug Bruce OAM JP, passed away interest, contact 30 SQN at email: on November 9 at the age of 98 years and [email protected] 11 months. Mr Bruce was State Secretary  Scott and Phyl Properjohn of Waikiki – Further details will be communicated as from 1969-81. active RSL members, 94 years young. they become available. ABCP, 30SQN Headquarters - BLD 106 RAAF Base East  Nurses Memorial Service – Sale VIC 3852, Phone: (03) 5146 6888, Albany RSL 71 years together Email: [email protected] Albany again hosted the annual Nurses They met when Phyl’s brother, an RAAF  Memorial Service on Sunday, October 30 Search for African Star Medal 2016 although wet weather forced a change pilot, brought Ted Properjohn home for Gold Coast resident Donna Winter is on a of venue to the Albany RSL rooms. Usually leave at Bellingen near Coffs Harbour in mission to find her grandfather’s missing the service is conducted in Albany's Nurses 1945. The rest, as they say, is history and African Star medal. She knows that Memorial Garden. The service remembers later in 1945 Phyl and Ted Properjohn September 3, 1987 a former secretary of the the role of nurses who saved thousands of Fremantle Sub-Branch (J. K. Paton) wrote to wounded in WWI field hospitals. Most of the married. They celebrated their 71st Central Army Records in Melbourne seeking members travel from Perth each and every wedding anniversary on November 17 the owner of the medal with her grandfather’s year to mark the special occasion. at the City of Rockingham RSL Sub- Branch. Both served in the RAAF during WWII. “When Ted asks for National Boer War Service in 2017 something I say ‘yes Dear’ and go off and do what I want to do,” Phyl explains Boer War Memorial Society of WA Jones - [email protected]. National as the recipe for a long marriage. “We’re Inc: Notice of Commemoration and Secretary & Public Officer, National not drinkers so that’s helped a bit. Reconciliation Service 2017 And Boer War Memorial Association. “I think we’ve just helped each other.” Dedication of the National Boer Mobile: +61 (0) 418 501 065. Both 94, the couple live at Waikiki. Ted War Memorial in Canberra: RSL The Boer War Memorial Society of WA served with the RAAF Beaufort Bomber members and Listening Post readers Inc is open to any members of the public Sqn during WWII and later flew in are advised that the annual Boer War who may have an interest in Boer War or Catalinas in New Guinea serving as a Commemoration and Reconciliation be a descendant of a Boer War Veteran Wireless Air Gunner. Phyl Properjohn service will be held at the South African (of any country and either side). You was a WAAAF dental assistant. War Memorial in Kings Park (currently may register as a descendant without undergoing refurbishment) at 11am on joining. Sunday June 4, 2017. Further details will be advised closer to the day. We receive strong support from SAMVOA and we place a strong I am pleased to advise that our National emphasis on reconciliation so any Memorial Project is progressing well expat 'Springboks' out there are also and our National Committee have set the welcome to join. A special thank date for its dedication on May 31, 2017 you goes to those RSL sub-branches on ANZAC Parade in Canberra. RSL that both donated to the National members and all in WA who contributed Memorial Project and have placed May both financially and in others ways to 31 - which marks the signing of the the project can be well pleased with the Vereeniging Peace Accords - on their final result. Please note that the WA commemoration calendar. Apology government of the day donated $30,000 I am delighted to report that the number The June edition of The Listening as our state’s contribution. of sub-branches conducting their own Post carried an incorrect photograph The NBWMC WA Br and the Boer War Boer War commemoration services of Vietnam veteran Leslie Owen Memorial Society of WA Inc thanks you is slowly but steadily increasing. ‘Squizzy’ Taylor, pictured here all for your contributions. (above right) with his younger brother If your sub-branch would like advice or Bruce. Les Taylor was killed in the WA residents who may wish to attend assistance with this, please contact us at Yarloop fires along with an unrelated are advised to visit the Boer War the above address. Malcolm Taylor, also known as website at www.bwm.org.au for further Kevin Bovill ‘Squizzy’. We apologise for the error. information or call Tony Larnach- Hon Sec - Boer War Memorial Assn Inc The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016 65

Sudoku Crossword Solution in next edition Sudoku is a logic-based, combinatorial number-placement puzzle. The objective is to fill a 9x9 grid so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 boxes (also called blocks or regions) contains the digits from 1 to 9 only one time each. The puzzle setter provides a partially completed grid. Solution in next edition

Courtesy of Len Copley Across Down 1 American Cancer 1 Air (prefix) Society (abbr) 2 Point 4 Stream 3 Very large truck Provided by Sudoko.com.au 8 Pine tree product 4 Wireless 12 Before, poetically 5 Car manufacturer 13 Continent 6 Citrus fruit Sudoku Solution from last edition - Sept 2016 14 Assure 7 Drink 15 Spirits 8 Long skinny boat 16 Throw out 9 Ovate 17 Church part 10 Star 18 Rust 11 Vessel 20 Relating to the sun 19 Eat sparingly 21 Note of debt 20 In _(together) 22 Adieu 22 Box 23 Cook in an oven 23 Ask 26 Goof 24 High naval rank (abbr) 27 River (Spanish) 25 Candy bar brand _kat 30 Publication supervisor 26 Sibling (3 wds) 27 Scarlet 34 Greenwich Mean Time 28 Roman three 35 Alter 29 Often poetically 36 Revise 31 Smell 38 Carry 32 Abrade 37 Throw 33 Axed 38 Compass Point 37 Secure 40 Cut off wool 38 Artist Andrew 43 Type of poison 39 Rescuer 47 Writing 40 Stair 48 Capital of the Ukraine 41 Zeus' wife 49 Tear 42 Exodus 50 Little Mermaid's love 43 Goodbye! 51 Fence opening 44 Coloured part of the eye 52 Wrath 45 Dreadful Share your RSLWA news 53 Route 46 Fencing sword and views on facebook! 54 Danish physicist 48 Former USSR's secret 55 Encounter police www.facebook.com/rslwa Crossword solution last edition (Sept 2016) over page 66 The Listening Post DECEMBER 2016

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning. Last Post We will remember them. Lest We Forget.

TX6681; Drake, Harry WX10477; Thorpe, Jack 17979; Michael, Michael Navy – Esperance RSL Sub-Branch – Three Springs-Arrino RSL Sub-Branch – Highgate RSL Sub-Branch D/JX727820; Bloxham, Douglas 55132; Ducat, Trevor 54455; Townsend, Jerry 406946; Moir, Brian – Eastern Regional RSL Sub-Branch – North Beach RSL Sub-Branch – Northam RSL Sub-Branch – Albany RSL Sub-Branch

37939; Clayton, Robert 14471234; Duffy, Matthew VX146375; Tyler, Francis – City of Cockburn RSL Sub-Branch – Wanneroo RSL Sub-Branch 436738; Morris, Keith – Dongara RSL Sub-Branch – Highgate RSL Sub-Branch LTJX385060; Cracknell, Dennis WX2629; Fairclough, Milton 5708141; Ward, Rodney – Canning Districts RSL Sub-Branch – Bicton-Palmyra RSL Sub-Branch 8195; O’Mullane, John – Victoria Park RSL Sub-Branch F3672; Evans, Robert – Central Branch NX167110; Gardiner, Lancelot – Busselton RSL Sub-Branch Air Force – York RSL Sub-Branch 99900; Peacock, Nancy 113409; Grieve, Veronica O55138; Abbott, Anthony – Geraldton RSL Sub-Branch

– Bunbury RSL Sub-Branch 5/1257; Gordon, Edwin – City of Perth RSL Sub-Branch – Canning Districts RSL Sub-Branch 406699; Pugsley, Herbert 30112; Harrison, Frederick A5276; Butler, John – Applecross RSL Sub-Branch – Broome RSL Sub-Branch WX23342; Howell, Ronald – City of Perth RSL Sub-Branch – Mount Hawthorn RSL Sub-Branch 636606; Quinn, James

31473; Hewitt, Herbert 56490; Connelly, Denis – Bicton-Palmyra RSL Sub-Branch – Central RSL Sub-Branch 4547024; Lumb, Joseph – Applecross RSL Sub-Branch – Walpole RSL Sub-Branch R95432; Jackson, Barry 1701229; Davie, Edward 80473; Rigg, Ronald – Ballajura RSL Sub-Branch W2771273; McQuat, Gary – Broome RSL Sub-Branch – Highgate RSL Sub-Branch – Bullsbrook RSL Sub-Branch R55632; Johnson, Reginald 2071103; Dearden, Doreen NP31917; Ryan, John – Bicton-Palmyra RSL Sub-Branch 539545; Moss, Dennis – Returned Ex-Servicewomen’s – City of Perth RSL Sub-Branch – Geraldton City RSL Sub-Branch R56748; Maynard, Richard RSL Sub-Branch A61526; Saunders, Perry – Riverton RSL Sub-Branch 5/705297; Penaluna, Alan 85209; Elder, Arthur – Kwinana RSL Sub-Branch F3444; Pusey, E.S. – Nedlands RSL Sub-Branch – Bellevue RSL Sub-Branch – Geraldton City RSL Sub-Branch 54088; Pereira, Kevin 1874136; Griggs, Peter Merchant Navy R45499; Stevens, Francis – City of Mandurah RSL Sub-Branch – Kalamunda RSL Sub-Branch ** M7 00008; Griffiths, G. – Mosman Park RSL Sub-Branch 58610; Power, John 436043; Macintyre, L. S. – Kwinana RSL Sub-Branch PM7756; Stokes, Thomas – Central Branch – Yokine-Joondanna RSL Sub-Branch – Bedford-Morley RSL Sub-Branch WX28041; Quartermaine, Norman 82436; Mather, Frederic R277032; Wheeler, Clifford – Shark Bay RSL Sub-Branch F/V338; Wood, Robert – North Branch RSL Sub-Branch – Bunbury RSL Sub-Branch – Kalamunda RSL Sub-Branch 22035353; Roddy, John 26461; West, J.E.H. – Mount Hawthorn RSL Sub-Branch – Bedford – Morley RSL Sub-Branch SF64824; Shepherd, Rosemary – Returned Ex-Servicewomen’s RSL Army Sub-Branch 519190; Adams, Ronald ** P3 00944; Smith, Peter – Highgate RSL Sub-Branch – City of Perth RSL Sub-Branch WX5155; Biddle, B.L. 23604066; Stuttard, Robert – City of Rockingham RSL Sub-Branch – Osborne Park RSL Sub-Branch 218703; Bondarczuk, Wasyl WX37546; Summerton, Kevan – Bunbury RSL Sub-Branch – Central Branch

Crossword Solution from last edition – Sept 2016

Remembrance Day PHOTOS 2016 This year’s Remembrance Day photos are on flickr: VISIT: www.flickr.com/photos/rslwa

Members of RSLWA can get free digital copies. To purchase a print, phone ANZAC House 9287 3799 WaitingWaiting for for ‘Someday’ ‘Someday’ toto preplanpreplan youryour funeral maymay be be a a big big mistake. mistake. Last Last timetime wewe checked,checked, there isis nono ‘Someday’ ‘Someday’ onon thethe calendar.calendar.

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Call:Call: 0808 94599459 2846 AVAILABLEAVAILABLE ALLALL HOURS www.hetheringtonfunerals.com.au www.hetheringtonfunerals.com.au They fought for our freedom. They taught us respect. Serving our Veterans for more than 70 years. Respect. Integrity. Loyalty. It’s what we share.