Registered by AUSTRALIA POST NO. PP607128/00001 ListeningListeningTHE AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2006 VOL. 29 No.4 PostPost The official journal of THE RETURNED & SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA POSTAGE PAID SURFACE WA Branch Incorporated • PO Box Y3023 Perth 6832 • Established 1920 AUSTRALIA MAIL Viet-NamViet-Nam –– 4040 YearsYears OnOn

Battle of Long-Tan Page 9

90th Anniversary – Annual Report Page 11

The “official” commencement date for the increased Australian commitment, this commitment “A Tribute to Australian involvement in Viet-Nam is set at 23 grew to involve the Army, Navy and Air Force as well May 1962, the date on which the (then) as civilian support, such as medical / surgical aid Minister for External Affairs announced the teams, war correspondents and officially sponsored Australia’s decision to send military instructors to entertainers. Vietnam. The first Australian troops At its peak in 1968, the Australian commitment Involvement in committed to Viet-Nam arrived in Saigon on amounted to some 83,000 service men and women. 3rd August 1962. This group of advisers were A Government study in 1977 identified some 59,036 Troops complete mission Viet-Nam collectively known as the “Australian Army males and 484 females as having met its definition of and depart Camp Smitty Training Team” (AATTV). “Viet-Nam Veterans”. Page 15 1962 – 1972 As the conflict escalated, so did pressure for Continue Page 5. 2 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006

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THE AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2006 VOL. 29 No.4 Contents Page Listening Post From the President’s Pen 4 Sub-Branch News 6

The Bush Wireless 8 Publishers The Returned & Services League The Battle of Long-Tan 9 WA Branch Incorporated ANZAC House Collins Class Submarine 10 28 St Georges Tce PERTH WA 6000 Telephone: (08) 9287 3799 HMAS Warramunga 10 PO Box Y3023 PERTH WA 6832 STATE EXECUTIVE Email: [email protected] Facsimile: (08) 9287 3732 2005-2008 Website: www.rslwahq.org.au WA Country Callers: 1800 259 799 2005-06 Annual Report 11 STATE PRESIDENT Editorial Staff Mr William Gaynor OAM RFD Departure from Camp Smitty 15 STATE VICE PRESIDENT Managing Editor: Len Copley Mr Graeme Sherriff Notices 16 Deputy Editor: Tony Hughes Editorial Co-Ordinator: Heather Anderson Ph: (08) 9287 3799 STATE TREASURER Sub-Editors: Peter Finn, Olga Greig OAM, Bob Mercer AM RFD ED, Mr Paul Rengel Letters to the Editor 16 Ken Morrison AFSM CD, & Bill Tate APRIA. COMMITTEE Membership Enquiries: Kathryn Clark Ph: (08) 9287 3705 Mr Peter Blenkinsopp Crossword 17 Mr Len Copley Printer: Colour Press Mr Laurie Fraser MBE Recipe 17 Graphic Design: Type Express Mrs Olga Greig OAM Mr Alan Gronow Mr David Messer RSL Presentation 17 Deadline for next edition: 15th September. Mr Ian Mulholland for contributions to next edition Mr Ken Parish Mr Arthur Rae From the Bunker 18 If possible, submissions should be typed and double-spaced. Preferred Mr Mike Tonks method of receiving submissions is via email. Photographs can be black Mr Ray Ward Poetry 18 and white or colour. This is your journal and contributions are welcome. TRUSTEES Address to: Mr Don Blair RFD ED 79th Annual Women’s Auxiliary Annual 19 Mr John Cox OAM JP The Managing Editor, The Listening Post Mr Robert Mercer AM RFD ED Conference RSL, PO Box Y3023 PERTH WA 6832 Mr Wayne Tarr RFD ED Email: [email protected] Mr Duncan Warren AM RFD Top 10 Best CD’s 19 Opinions expressed by contributors in articles and reproduced articles are STATE SECRETARY the individual opinions of such contributors or the authors of such Mr Shane Seers OAM JP Filling the Gap in Menora 20 reproduced articles and are not necessarily those of the RSL. ASSISTANT STATE SECRETARY Reproduction of articles (or extracts) contained in The Listening Post are ADMIN Visit Malacca 21 welcomed provided the source is acknowledged. The Editor reserves the Mr Geoff Dunne right to accept, reject, sub-edit and re-arrange material submitted for publication. ASSISTANT STATE SECRETARY Secretary’s Notes 22 PROJECTS Please direct all advertising enquiries to RSL Advertising 9381 7999. Mr Gary Sutherland OAM Pilots Course Graduates 23 HMAS Ballarat serving in the northern waters of the gulf

Currently deployed in the Gulf on HMAS BALLARAT, Leading Seaman McQualter is one of two females who are members of the ship’s boarding party.

HMAS BALLARAT, deployed in the which was the location of the Eureka Persian Gulf, is the Royal Australian Stockade, takes its ship motto, “Defend the Navy’s current contribution to maritime Flag” from that famous fight for equality. security operations in the region. The ship, which is part of Task Force 158 As part of TF158, HMAS BALLARAT will be (TF158) is serving in the northern under the command of Commodore Peter waters of the gulf, where its duties Lockwood and his team of 21 Australian include oil platform protection, Naval Officers and specialist sailors. This is maintaining Iraqi boarders, the second time the coalition naval elements humanitarian assistance and denying have been under the command of illegal trade. Australians. HMAS BALLARAT is the eighth ANZAC Class "The Australian Navy is invaluable to the Frigate and the sixth for the Royal Australian Coalition Naval efforts in the Middle East, Navy, two being bought by New Zealand. because of their professionalism, their The ship which was commissioned on the independence and their ability to stick to the 26th June 2004 is on its first deployment to task. In the North Arabian Gulf in command the Middle East. of 158, Australians will be playing a key leadership role in the Coalition." Captain John The ship, named after the Victorian city Peterson, Chief of Staff, U.S 5th Fleet. 4 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 September at 9.30am by The Review identified the names of 18 Governor General of the Australians who died after the Commonwealth of Australia, His cessation of hostilities. From the Excellency Maj-Gen Michael Jeffery AC CVO MC (Ret’d) The Government’s response to Post-Armistice Korea Service Late Notice from the Report was announced today by President’s Pen Minister. Bruce Billson MP. “Although the Working Party’s With Annual Congress now Branches want to initiate the change The Membership year WILL NOT Post Armistice Service in Korea findings recommended the behind us I would like to express immediately but, this is not possible change. Renewals will be required Review of Medal Entitlements establishment and awarding of a my appreciation to sub as we need to restructure timings of by 1st January – as now is the case. The Australian Government set up General Service Medal (GSM) and branches, Delegates and our AGM’s and reporting financial an independent review into the level RASB, only one Australian military members who attended and positions to our membership. of recognition of service following How will it affect State service medal is awarded to participated in the celebration of the armistice in Korea in 1953. The Branch? recognise a single type of service in the Leagues 90th Anniversary. Working Party was to investigate the Please note the such circumstances. The ASM 1945- following: There will be no change to State appropriateness of the award of the It was a great occasion, not only for Branch operations. Congress will still Australian Active Service Medal 75 with Clasp ‘KOREA’ has been the business transacted but for the • All Sub Branches will have their be in early July, triennial elections by 1945-1975 with clasp "Korea" and the duly awarded for this service,” Mr camaraderie and fellowship that was Financial Statements Audited as at postal ballot will take place prior to Returned from Active Service Badge Billson said. evident throughout the entire 31st December, 2006. Congress and the Branches for this period of service in Korea. weekend. To those who were unable While acknowledging the efforts of Statement of Financial Affairs and some Australian ex-service personnel to be present, you missed a great • In 2007, an Audit is to be Balance Sheet will be adopted by Working Party Members time we will keep you up to date on conducted as at 30th June, 2007 who strongly lobbied to have the postal Ballot before 31st October, were: Australian Service Medal 1945 – 75 decisions made through the each year. • In 2008 the audit will take place upgraded to the Australian Active Listening Post and the Annual Report Rear Admiral Ian Crawford AO, AM on 30th June. Service Medal (AASM) 1945-75 and which will be released in early (Mil),RAN (Retd), Co-Chair; National Congress accompanied by the issue of the September. From 2008 onwards all audits will be Returned from Active Service Badge as at 30th June in each year. I wish to alert the membership and Former Deputy Speaker of the Change of Financial seek support for the 90th National House of Representatives Mr Garry (RASB), Mr Billson said that after Year Sub-branches will from 2007 be Congress activities over the period Nehl AM, Co-Chair; further consultation and careful required to hold their AGM by 31st consideration, the Government has 10th – 14th September, 2006.These Ms Colleen Thurgar AM of the Order October, in each year. This will accepted the view of Defence that Congress approved an amendment include the Official Opening at of Australia Association; and to State Rules to change the financial include Election of Officers (to take Government House Ballroom on the service of those in post-armistice reporting period from the Calendar up appointments from 1 November) 12th September and the Congress Brigadier Gordon Jones AM (Retd). Korea was not considered “warlike” year to the Financial Year. While this and presentation of Annual 90th Anniversary Dinner at ANZAC for the purposes of awarding the The Working Party completed the appears to be a simple move there Statement of Affairs and Balance AASM 1945-75 or RASB. “In line with House in that evening. A further late review and the final report was are statutory requirements that must Sheet. This is a requirement under this policy, the award of the RASB is addition to the programme is the presented to Minister Kelly on 20 be met before the change can be the Associations Incorporation Act inconsistent with the awarding of the Official Opening of Menora Gardens December 2005. implemented across all Sub 1987 and as an Incorporated body – the redeveloped War Veterans ASM, as the RASB is only awarded Branches. We appreciate some Sub we are required to be compliant Homes – on Wednesday 13th The Post-armistice Korean Service for “warlike” service.” Field and logistics leaders sought The Stop the Toad Foundation Inc (STTF) is We seek: planning a major offensive against the cane toad as it sweeps across the Northern Territory Planners – people with experience in tactical toward the WA border this Dry season. The planning and managing teams on manoeuvres. culmination of that exercise will be a six week Team leaders – people who can take small teams into ‘window’ when we can hit the toads at their most some of the more remote areas to conduct surveillance vulnerable. The dry climate is working against and toad control activities. them and they congregate around any remaining water to survive. Ground support – people who can help us feed, sleep and transport the workers and the equipment Between 20 Sept and 31 Oct 2006 the STTF will be efficiently. encouraging concerned Australians to travel to the Northern Territory to help. We will soon be issuing the Call Lisa on 08 9420 7266 clarion call – but right now we need experienced or email [email protected] leaders to join our team to help us manage the people for more information who will come. We need your voluntary help to turn Together we can keep WA CANE TOAD FREE participants into an effective fighting force – armed, www.stopthetoad.com fed, mobile – and ready to engage the enemy. THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 5

Viet-Nam In April 1965, the Australian Under the scheme, all Australian level daylight bombing missions Government announced the males aged twenty years required to under the direction of a forward air commitment of an infantry battalion register with the exception of controller became a regular feature. group. This consisted of 1 RAR Aboriginals and Torres Strait Such missions came to dominate together with some logistical and Islanders, non-naturalised migrant, squadron work and by November 40 years on support groups. The group was fully employees of a foreign government 1969, high level night bombing runs established in Viet-Nam by 10 June or members of the permanent military were largely discontinued. From Page 1. expired ordnance and assistance in 1965 and operated. Under the forces. There were two registration salvage operations when handling of control of the United States 173rd periods a year: in January, for those Australia provided civilian In 1988 the then Australian Prime ordnance was part of the salvage Airborne Brigade, located in Bien- turning twenty in the first half of the medical/surgical teams to Viet-Nam Minister, Mr Bob Hawke, proclaimed process. Hoa, northeast of Saigon. year; and in July, for those whose under a SEATO aid programme that “Long-Tan Day” 18th August will twentieth birthdays occurred in the administered by the (then) be known and commemorated as The following destroyers were During March 1966, shortly before 1 second half. The scheme operated Department of External Affairs. The “Viet-Nam Veterans’ Day” destroyed in Viet-Namese waters: RAR’s tour of duty was due to finish, from January 1965 to December 1972, teams came under the general HMAS Hobart (3 trips), HMAS the Australian government Some 12,400 naval personnel served when the newly elected Whitlam Brisbane (2 trips) and HMAS Vendetta announced that it would expand the jurisdiction of the Australian Embassy in Viet-Nam from 1965 to 1972. The Government announced its abolition. (1 trip). army commitment to two battalions in Saigon and operated purely in the history of their service in the Viet- with supporting arms and services Between January 1965 and December Viet-Namese civilian environment. Nam War is recorded in the book The navy commitment was further 1972 almost 762000 men turned They provided: Royal Australian Navy in Viet-Nam. expanded on 16 October 1967 when and that national servicemen were to participate with the army in Viet-Nam. twenty and were required to register the RAN Helicopter Flight Viet-Nam for national service; of these, 35000 Assistance to Viet-Namese doctors The first RAN ship to see operational (RANHFV) took up duty as part of the The new formation, known as the 1st and nurses in the country’s run down, service in Viet-Nam waters was the took the CMF option approximately United States Army 135th Aviation Australian Task Force, had a total ill equipped and understaffed troop transfer HMAS Sydney, which strength of 4500 men and was 63740 men were conscripted and of Company at Vung Tau. The first these, 19450 went to Viet-Nam. provincial hospitals; transported the main body of the First group consisted of eight RAN assigned an operational area in Royal Australian Regiment (1 RAR) helicopter pilots, four observers and Phuoc-Tuy Province. From its base at The RAAF presence in Viet-Nam was Education and training in western from Sydney to Vung-Tau in May 34 supporting staff. Subsequent Bui-Dat, the task force conducted an established on 8 August 1964 when medical techniques for Viet-Namese 1965. Between that date and March contingent were of a similar size. The active program including patrols, the first three Caribous landed at medical personnel; and 1972, HMAS Sydney made a further unit operated in Viet-Nam until 16 ambushes and cordon and search Vung-Tau. This group, which 21 voyages. Other ships involved in ‘tangible evidence of Australia’s June 1971, by which time four operations in surrounding villages, operated under the title of RAAF providing logistic support for the contingents had completed tours of aimed at disrupting enemy supply Transport Flight, Viet-Nam (RTFV) concern for her neighbours in Australian force in Viet-Nam included duty. lines. In addition, the taskforce Southeast Asia’ the Australian National Line vessels: was expanded to six aircrafts on 24 conducted a number of civic action August with the arrival of the second MV Jeparit, which made 43 voyages In addition to RANHFV, navy programs and other activities aimed at War correspondents, photographers between June 1966 and March 1972; helicopter pilots flew with No.9 delivery flight. The flight was used and official entertainers. winning over the support of a third initially on local supply tasks from and MV Boonaroo, which made two Squadron, RAAF during a period battalion and supporting units, giving voyages. In order to avoid industrial when the air force was short of pilots Saigon, but its role grew to include War correspondents were accredited it the capacity to operate more disputes, both of these ships were who served at varying times between missions throughout the length and by the army, but represent their own widely. commissioned to the RAN. As a February 1968 and April 1969. breadth of Viet-Nam. On 1 June media interests. Tours varied in result, the Jeparit made its last 17 On 10 November 1964, the prime 1966, following the decision to length from months to years. The Australian Army involvement in voyages and the Boobaroo its second minister announced the deploy No. 9 Squadron to Viet-Nam, Viet-Nam commenced with the arrival the unit was renamed No. 35 The group known as ‘official voyage as RAN ships crewed with a reintroduction of national service in Saigon on 3 August 1962 of the first Squadron, RAAF to ensure equality in entertainers’ consisted of both show mixture of civilian and navy seamen. conscription. The decision to do this 30 advisers of the AATTV. By June status. business personalities and popular was related to both the difficulty that During 1967, the navy commitment to 1964, the AATTV had been expanded groups of the day. All were the army was experiencing in The decision to send a squadron of Viet-Nam expanded rapidly. The first to 80 advisers. It was a further volunteers who were organised into attracting sufficient volunteers and the eight Canberra bombers to Viet-Nam navy group to see land service in expanded to 100 by 1965 and had tour groups by the army, which Viet-Nam was the Clearance Diving reachs over 200 by December 1972, cost that would have been incurred in was announced by the prime minister provided transport, accommodation, Team 0 (CDT3), which was formed in when the withdrawal of Australian offering sufficient rates of pay to on 22 December 1966 as part of an etc as well as an Escort Officer for the early 1967 with a complement of one forces from Viet-Nam was attract more volunteers during a expanded Australian commitment to officer and five sailors. CDT3 saw announced. The team, by now period of full employment. that country. The arrival of No.2 duration of the tour. Tours were service in Viet-Nam from 6 February known as the Australian Army Moreover, by introducing conscripts, Squadron aircraft and personnel organised at regular intervals 1967 to 5 May 1971. Duties included Advisory Group (AAAG), returned to the government was able to draw on deployed on operations at any time throughout the year and normally daily inspection of anchor cables, Australia on 19 December 1972 after a more educated and skilled section since the end of World War II. included one tour over the Christmas rudders and propellers, hull searches completing over 10 years of service to of the workforce than it was currently Initially the aircraft operated high period. Each tour lasted on average on request, disposal of faulty or Viet-Nam. attracting. level night bombing runs. Later, low 19 days. 6 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 Sub-Branch News

whose understanding of Defence Memorial Sub Wardens is also to with ‘the family’ again being the Kings Carnival from 1000hrs and and its political ramifications is be included in the Listening Post. reason, handed over to the step off at 1030hrs for a service at impressive. His talk was Germans in Como where they the Mandurah Community War enthusiastically received and the It so happened that following the were locked in military cells and Memorial at 1045hrs. number of questions during and July Management Committee employed on ‘general duties’. after his presentation was evidence meeting while having a post Afterwards social interaction takes of the interest he created in his meeting noggin with a few of the With the departure of the German place at the Mandurah Sub-Branch topic. Committee I learned of the very unit at Como to the Russian Front of the RSL, Third Avenue, interesting war of one of our they were moved to Moosburg Maylands. Our July luncheon was given over number. Although he is not of the V11A. Phil still in civvies which he to those who have celebrated their current crop of "OBEs", and is now had worn from his time in Italy Manjimup 80th and 90th birthdays in the past a very well seasoned "OBE" I was paraded before a group of The RSL Manjimup Sub-Branch year (The OBEs – Over Bloody thought that on this occasion, German Officers enjoying morning invites you and your members Eighty) and to the presentation of tea in the sunshine. They laughed some of his experiences were to attend the combined South medallions to Sub Wardens who’s at his stories of Italy and suggested worth sharing with other RSL West’s Viet-Nam Veterans’ Day many years of dedicated service that he had escaped from a local Members, albeit in a much in Manjimup on Saturday 19th during wreath laying ceremonies abbreviated form. work party. He was awarded 30 at the State War Memorial is days solitary confinement and then August 2006. The new Remembrance Garden at receiving due and most deserved Phil Loffman, a member of the placed in the Russian compound The programme is to form up at the rear of our Club. recognition. It is sobering to note 2/11th, a Western Australian but subsequently transferred to the the Manjimup RSL Hall and, Collie/Cardiff that those who were 80 this year battalion, was one of those who American Air Crew compound. He accompanied by the Navy Band, were born in either 1925 or 1926 stormed "Ruin Ridge" Alamein on had been in that compound but a march to the War Memorial in the 27th July 1942. A short We raised the funds for the and were therefore 19 or 20 in few moments when an American Giblett Street. At 11:00 a.m. the 1945 when the Second World War description of this historical battle garden through the "buy a approached him stating "What Service and Commemoration will ended. The day is very close when was described in the Perth Daily brick scheme", then just before luck, my size" explaining that he take place and should conclude by those becoming eligible for the News dated 29th July 1942, in the ANZAC Day 2006, we placed had planned to decamp that night. midday. Weather permitting, it is plaques on the wall. honour of being awarded an following terms: The exchange of clothing was hoped that the RAAF will arrange "OBE" by Highgate will no longer made and Phil later learned that On ANZAC Day Father Ian Mabey "West Australians who yesterday for a flyover during the service. be amongst those who saw service the escape was successful. Finally officially opened and dedicated stormed "Ruin Ridge" appear to From there, the march will in the 1939-1945 War. In looking at he was transferred to a British the wall in memory of all deceased have been overwhelmed by proceed to the Manjimup Timber the demographics we can predict camp Lamsdorf-Stalag V111B. veterans. The wall is for families German tanks and lorried infantry. Park for fellowship and lunch. that soon there will be more From there he was sent on a of deceased Veterans, who would celebrating their 90th birthday than After they had captured their working party to Sudetenland. The Department of Veterans’ like to have the Veteran there are of those reaching their objective the West Australians Affairs has provided funding for remembered this way. The only 80th. On 6 May 1945 with the collapse of criteria is that they must have clung to it heroically for more than Germany imminent Phil and a Brit this occasion to recognise and served in a theatre of conflict to be eight hours without sufficient called Sailor joined the thousands of commemorate the 40th eligible to have their name on the protection from the enemy’s tanks civilians heading west towards the Anniversary of the Battle of Long- wall. in time to save the situation. They American Front. His journey from Tan. The funding will enable all fought to the last. Men could not there to Eastbourne, England was in Veterans and associated persons to Highgate have done more. But they were itself filled with adventure and be provided with a meal free of men against tanks, and the would provide enough material for a charge, a venue to accommodate I presume that being a very German armoured strength simply book. up to 500 people, a restaurant for new editor of the Highgate overran them". When we let our imagination run lunch, plus tables, chairs, heating, News, a Presidential remark to etc. me "that it is about time that As an aside, the "Daily News" of free this drastically abridged story our sub-branch made a the day was all of 8 pages. from which most has been deleted Undercover seating will be conjures up vivid and provided for visitors and those not contribution to The Listening Phil was taken prisoner by the extraordinary scenes. It reminds us marching in the covered walkway Post" was also a suggestion that Germans and handed over to the I should prepare that that within our ranks we have adjoining the War Memorial. Italians and there his experiences contribution. Here it is: many whose tales are personal as a POW begin. There is ample parking opposite histories of a tumultuous era and the RSL and at the Manjimup A scheduled change in the summit At the time of the collapse of the whose experiences are the like of of the sub branch Committee saw Timber Park. Italian Government Phil was which are only found in times of Ian Mulholland step aside to the imprisoned in the Villaboit work great international turmoil. This is Commemorative Wine and Stubby Position of Immediate Past why we, members of the RSL, camp. With the fall of the Holders will be on sale plus there President, Norm Manners ascend honour and nurture our war government the camp commander will be raffles running through the to the President’s chair and Bob veterans. day. Coffee and tea will be Norris elevated to the position of called a parade on which he announced, "Soldiers go home - Mandurah Murray available at the RSL Hall from 9:30 Senior Vice President. The balance a.m. We sincerely hope that as of the executive is unchanged. Prisoners go to London". He and Australia’s military his family were going to many of your Members as possible From my humble perspective they involvement in Viet-Nam was will attend, as we want to make seem to have a thorough grip of Switzerland. He wished the parade the largest in duration of any this a very memorable occasion. If their responsibilities and a good goodbye and good luck and it is war in Australia’s military you need to clarify anything, year is predicted. reported that he got on his bike history. It lasted over 10 years please contact sub-branch and pedalled away. from August 1962 to January An important social event in a President Rex Brown on 0402 771 1973. member’s life in the sub-branch is The plan of most of the Australians 875 or Secretary John Crook on undoubtedly the regular once a was to stay in the area until the More than 59,000 Australian 0408 931 489, or month luncheon. It is always very allied front overtook them. Service Personnel, including [email protected] well attended with more than 25% However the advance slowed and 17,000 National Servicemen were of members represented, and with then stopped and their position committed to the war effort and Programme for Vietnam a membership that totals around became untenable. 517 paid the ultimate sacrifice. Veterans Day 350, a quarter of that number is Manjimup 19th August 2006 almost the capacity of the Gallipoli Switzerland became their plan and As a result of the Abbott Royal 40th Anniversary of Battle of John Berg 90th Birthday room. The guest speakers have through the generosity and at the Commission into Agent Orange in Long Tan Celebrations, ANZAC House been of the highest standard and it great risk of the Italian people they 1983, the Commission recognised reached the Swiss-Italian frontier 10.45 am Form up at RSL Hall in would be unreasonable to single Those celebrating their 80th and recommended to the at Rodero, only to be arrested by Brockman Street, Manjimup out any one of them. The Birthday: / 90th Birthday: Government that a special day the Guardia Financia (Customs). should be set aside to reception received is always 11.00 am March to Memorial Although the Officer in charge commemorate Australia’s enthusiastic and as the topics are Robert Dawson, Jan (John) Berg Park, Giblett Street, Manjimup wide ranging the degree of Kevin Egan, Eric Watts, Bill abused the guards for their actions involvement in Viet-Nam. Bamford, Barry deBruyn, Talbot and apologised, he stated that he 11.05 am Ceremony and Service attention will vary, depending on In 1998 the Government accepted Bashall, John Lenton, John Bailey, had a family and informed Phil an individual member’s interest in this recommendation and 18 11.30 am March Past and the subject matter. Tom James. and the others that he would have to pass them on. They were then August, the date of the Battle of proceed to Manjimup Timber Park This year’s Gunfire Breakfast, A report relating to the medallion Long-Tan, was accepted as being taken to the Carabinieri (police) 11.45 am Refreshments at which preceded the ANZAC day presentations to the State War and once again apologised to, and the appropriate day because it had Licensed Bar march, was a huge success and a wide public and veteran support. sell out. As we all know too well, In 1995, Long-Tan Day as it was 12.30 pm Lunch provided in that following the breakfast, with known was changed to Viet-Nam adjoining Restaurant the blessing of the Bureau of Veterans’ Commemorative Day. To allow for catering, could you Meteorology, and its predicted On the 18 August each year the please advise the number of downpour, there were many Mandurah Murray Viet-Nam persons attending as soon as soaked veterans and public. As a Veterans’ Group organise a parade, possilble consequence the service which ceremony and fellowship to usually follows the march was commemorate this day. Accommodation can be arranged cancelled. The official guests at the through the Manjimup Tourist breakfast included the three Heads They are joined by other Viet-Nam of Service in Western Australia, the Veterans from throughout the Bureau. Phone 8771 1831 or email United States Consul General country and their allies from New [email protected] Robin McClellan and the Consul of Zealand, America and the Republic Further details available from of Viet-Nam Veterans Association. Greece the Honourable Theodoros Rex Brown (President) on Michalopolulos and Mrs Military, political, youth, Michalopolulos. community leaders and the local 0427 771 875 or John Crook public are actively involved in the (Secretary) 0408 931 849. The guest speaker was Neil James, ceremony. Executive Director of the RSL Manjimup Sub-Branch, Australian Defence Association Veterans meet and form up behind PO Box 783, Manjimup 6258. THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 7 Sub-Branch News

Armadale committee in for a “Cup of Coffee”. and meals (dine in or take away). Bar open Major up coming events Needless to say this submission is the from 1500hrs. On the 6th June 2006, the Armadale RSL result of that very bitter cup. The City of Mandurah Sub – Branch has built had its third annual luncheon for its Last Thursday of the Month: This is the big a new outside bar and on the 18th August WWII Veterans and their partners. This 2006 has been a very interesting year for this night out. It includes the Thursday Social as 2006, the 40th anniversary of the Battle of has now become an integral event for Sub-Branch. We have had some changes mentioned previously followed by a Dance Long-Tan our new bar will be officially some 30 odd veterans. with employed staff. A result of that is a new Night. Bar open from 1500hrs until close, opened and dedicated as the Long-Tan Bar. Bar Manager, Graeme and his off-sider entertainment provided by our own Lionel So those who can make it please do so. They enjoyed a 3-course meal, and were Sandee, both of when are characters in their Morris. entertained by “Fancy That” who put on a own ways. You are all invited in to meet Returned Ex-Servicewomen fabulous show for our veterans. Also them. Fridays: Bar open from 1500hrs. Meals (dine celebrating D Day was one of our members, in or take away), Raffles and Jag the Joker. The Returned Ex-Servicewomen’s Sub- Mrs Rose Kirby celebrating her 88th birthday. So what’s on at our branch? Well let’s start Free tickets in Jag the Joker. If your number Branch was founded in 1948 and is a The Committee put on this event at no cost with: is drawn you get three chances of winning, happy group of ladies from all Services. to our veterans, with the Committee doing but you have to get in and get your tickets We take part in various RSL activities and Mondays: We have indoor bowls, so if you each week to win. the bar service and the catering. want to have a go get in here at 1230hrs and have bus tours which are reasonably priced. Our Newsletter “Light Diet” keeps Anthony Mulvaney, have a play. Bar open from 1500hrs. Saturdays: Bar opens from 1500hrs. We just members in touch and those who are not Hon Secretary. socialise and watch the footy when we can. Tuesdays: Bar opens from 1500hrs. We just Keep an eye out though because when the so well receive cards, phone calls, and Bunbury get together and have a few Beers. hall is booked out the bar can be open all Christmas visits. Our annual dinner will be held on Wednesdays: The Merv Leach (social) Pool day. Our meetings which are followed by a cuppa Sunday 29th October 2006 and will be a Competition commencing at 1630hrs until Sundays: Normally this is a day off, but and fellowship, are held on the third huge success only if members support it. finished. (Bar open from 1500hrs), come when the hall gets booked for functions the Thursday of each month at 1pm in the along and enjoy some great fun (you may bar is open to all. Gallipoli room at ANZAC House. The cost is heavily subsidised by the RSL even win a new pool cue) and good food. which means that tickets are only $25 per You don’t even have to play just come along Last Sunday of the month: BBQ. This is fast Our September meeting will be a Social head. Tickets must be picked up and paid and have a laugh. Every third Wednesday the becoming the social event of the month. Afternoon with a Scarf Parade and Sale Table for asap, so please join us and enjoy what Naval Association meet here. Now this is a huge feed of BBQ meats to raise funds. We support the Poppy Day will be a top show. All enquiries to the office complimented by salads, fruits and during the Lunch for the Chapel at RSL Care, Menora. on 9721 3277. Thursdays: The Club Social Night Bar open colder months some hot dishes. Now you All ex-Servicewomen are welcome to join us. from 1500hrs to 2100h this includes the and your guests get all this for only $5.00 per The all important Welfare Committee is going Money Wheel Draw, a huge 25 prize raffle Contact Joan Dowson 9384 6712 or Cecile well and experiencing a high success rate person. Hinton 9387 2237. with determinations and working very well with DVA. We have a dedicated team of well trained welfare staff very capably lead by Ken Parish. Our office is manned 5 days per week, 9 am to 12 noon, so feel welcomed to drop in at any time. The Father’s Day Raffle is well under way with good support from our members helping as tickets sellers at Bunnings. Friday night Happy Hour is being well attended and is a very cheap and enjoyable evening. Alf Mainstone Leonora Another successful ANZAC Day was held in Leonora. The day beginning with the traditional Dawn Service attended by 80 people. The Service was a broadcast of the ABC Canberra Dawn Service. At the conclusion of the service light refreshments were made available at the Central Hotel, courtesy of the Shire of Leonora. The ANZAC Day march began at 10:30am. headed by the Kalgoorlie Brass Band. Dave Grills once again was the March Marshall doing a good job in keeping groups together and orderly. Then followed the RSL, bearing the Australian flag, New Zealand flag and the RSL Flag. Followed by Leonora Fire Brigade and Police Rangers. Many of the marchers wearing medals of deceased fathers or grandfathers. Mr Bill Johnson took the salute and the march concluded at the Cenotaph Park where the flagstaffs flew both Australian and New Zealand flags. The ANZAC Day address was given by Mr John Watson who spoke of the men from Leonora and Gwalia who took part in the Gallipoli landing on 25th April 1915. All would agree later that John did a good job. The Prayer of Remembrance was recited by Mr Boyd Spriggs, and B.J. supplied the sound equipment. Following the laying of wreaths and the Ode, one minute’s silence was observed and in a new addition to the Leonora ANZAC Day Service, the National Anthems of both Australia and New Zealand were played. This service was, as the Dawn Service, attended by a large crowd, who by all reports agreed that the service was a moving experience. At the conclusion of the service refreshments and drinks were supplied by the Shire of Leonora at the Central Hotel. The RSL Sub-Branch of Leonora would like to especially thank the Leonora Shire for their assistance on this important day on the Australian Calendar. Mandurah After copping a revving at the 2006 State Congress (with regard to our lack of input to the Listening Post) our President, Bavan Butler, called his 8 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 The Bush Wireless

Margot Harness Senior Advocate SMOKING QUESTIONNAIRES: and try to “correct” dates and details at a later death. Mr LAW, born in 1909, was aged 31 help alleviate apprehension and often appeal, face a daunting “credibility problem”. years and was a non-smoker on enlistment. miserable living conditions. Watch-keepers in Many veterans who have submitted DVA Far better to get-it-right-first-time. He served in the Middle East before being the Navy often used to smoke to help keep claims for such disabilities as lung taken prisoner in Java in March 1942. He was themselves awake and deal with uncertainty Australian veterans need to grasp one very cancer, emphysema/recurrent held in captivity as a POW in Thailand for and tension. And so on. important fact re smoking related claims for bronchitis, ischaemic heart disease more than three years, in appalling disability, and that is: the Australian (IHD), stroke (CVA) or Peripheral conditions. By the time he left the Army in In short – these are the sorts of reasons that Repatriation system IS THE ONLY vascular disease (PVD) on the basis of 1946, he had become a “20 a day” smoker. relate to a uniquely WAR-related COMPENSATION SYSTEM IN THE WORLD, war-time smoking, will be familiar with He died in 1976. At 31 years of age at commencement (or worsening) of a smoking as far as I know, that even considers them. It the requirement to complete a enlistment – hence already a man of maturity habit. Few claimants would have had to is the DVA only – the MCRS won’t even look questionnaire setting out the details and – who had, up until then, chosen NOT to endure what the late James LAW went at them. data of their smoking histories. smoke, it is almost certain that had it not been through on the Burma-Siam railway, or anything like it – but I suggest that if Be aware that the British don’t – and the for the war, and his particularly traumatic This form poses various key questions, such submitting a Smoking Questionnaire, you Americans won’t. Not the Dutch nor experiences as a POW of the Japanese, he as “WHEN did you start to smoke on a regular bear in mind that it was his experiences that Norwegians. The British War Pensions probably would never have taken it up at all. basis?” “WHY did you start to smoke?” led to the rights, and provisions of claiming Office takes the firm stance that “no-one “HOW MANY a day were you smoking, when One needs to be aware too, that during those successfully for smoking-related health forces anyone to smoke” – a position shared that habit became established?” “If there was years - unlike today - few people had any disorders. with other countries that are fortunate any later variation in that pattern – give understanding of the health hazards of enough to have a repatriation system details of the increase/decrease, and when it smoking. It is also a paradox that whilst Where asked for the QUANTITIES – do your comparable with ours. We have read occurred; Describe daily consumption tobacco is a stimulant drug – it imparts level best to detail any fluctuations in accounts in the media of people with tobacco pattern”. If a veteran smoked tobacco, and calming effects. It is far more toxic than most smoking you have experienced. I have addictions who have tried to sue cigarette “rolled-his-own” – the DVA asks for an people realise. known many WW2 men who came home estimate of the ounces smoked per week. companies …. And we see how far they get! from the war and tried to cut back citing post- Citing “Smoking” as a basis for war rationing etc; or the birth of babies, that (With “tailor-mades” – an accurate estimate of So … why does Australia’s DVA allow Disability Claims today: reduced their ability to purchase. Quite the number smoked per day is requested). smokers/ex-smokers to successfully Just above the signature block, the form often, once they were on better wages, their claim? Unlike the era of James LAW, the health risks carries a brief certificate: “The above smoking habits built up again. These of smoking are now very well-known and particulars are a true and faithful record of my Our Australian system, as some may know, is variations should be noted on the form, well-publicised. Packets have borne a smoking consumption history as best I can influenced by case-law emanating from the giving the approximate years these changes warning that it is hazardous, and can kill – recall”. Federal Court. The landmark case that led to in consumption took place. since 1972. the acknowledgement of smoking as a Too many are filled out carelessly: In conclusion then, be forthright with the compensable basis for claims was brought by I have briefly outlined Mr LAW’s story, to details the form asks for. Be as accurate as Unfortunately, time and again, claimants have the widow of a WW2 soldier who had been illustrate that the DVA expects a claimant to you can be. Take the trouble to note periods failed to realize the importance of this form. a POW of the Japanese on the Burma-Siam similarly draw a link between war service and when your smoking rate varied up or down. Cases that had been refused by the DVA at railway. It was a case that was appealed to circumstances that led to commencement of Check dates with family members – photos – the primary level often came to me to go on the Full Court of the Federal Court here in WA smoking (or the trigger for a marked increase perhaps link variations with changes in to review at the VRB – and my heart would in 1980 (the Reference, should anyone want in a smoking pattern). It is not sufficient to jobs/birth of children etc. If you need sink when I would read the details provided to look it up, is Re: REPATRIATION respond to the question: “Why did you start assistance with the form, contact ANZAC on the Smoking History form and saw that COMMISSION And: NANCY LAW (1980) 4 to smoke?” by blithely entering: “Everybody House and speak to Jim Boland (9287 3708) little care or trouble had been taken. I cannot No. W.A. G20 of 1980 War Widows did”; or “I wanted to”; these reasons apply or one of the Pensions Officers (287 3799). emphasise enough, that if any reader puts in Pension - Superannuation and Pensions). equally to a civilian. If a person took up a claim in the future, based on a war-time The reasonings set out by the Judges are very smoking prior to enlistment, and was already The DVA uses a similar form in relation to smoking habit, take the time and care to complex, but essentially, it was recognised on 20 a day prior to service in a war zone – ALCOHOL consumption. It too, is designed present your past smoking as correctly as that the extraordinary stresses of Mr James then that person simply chose to smoke; and to elicit just when the applicant started possible. People who fail to fully provide LAW’s service, had led to the acquisition of a war service had no bearing on the acquisition drinking; when the consumption rate became full and accurate details in the first instance, smoking habit that led to his lung cancer and of that habit, unless it led to an increase to, higher than normal etc – and the reason(s) say, 30 a day – in which case, the difference cited for the abnormal drinking pattern. in daily rate (ie: 10 cigarettes a day) will be Much of what I’ve already said regarding taken into account as the “war-time smoking Smoking histories and the necessity to rate”. provide a war-related contention holds Many, many veterans have explained their equally with the ALCOHOL smoking histories satisfactorily, and had their QUESTIONNAIRE. claims accepted. For example: WW2 bomber With all of these forms, fill them in as fully pilots have described the endless hours sitting and accurately as possible – and if unsure, around airfields ready to go on “ops”, with seek some assistance, as outlined above. nothing else to do but smoke to “settle the nerves”. Scores of WW2, Korean and Viet- ‘Til next time – keep on keeping on, and Nam veterans in the field found smoking to never pass up the chance for a joke and a be one of the few ways of relieving stress and chuckle! tension – with little to do at night to relax or MARGOT HARNESS Army Cadets abseil down Police building On Wednesday 19 July one hundred Army are over 16,000 male and female Army Cadets Cadets from the 28 Cadet units located in 232 units throughout Australia. Statewide around Western Australia were given the there are 28 regional cadet units linked to the opportunity to celebrate the Centenary of Western Australian Army Cadets Brigade, Australian Army Cadets by abseiling which is headquartered at Leeuwin Barracks. down the WA Police Headquarters: 1 Hay These units have adult officers who supervise Street, East Perth. approximately 1,300 Western Australian teenagers. The ages of Cadets range from The WA Commissioner of Police Karl twelve and a half through to eighteen-plus. O'Callaghan led the first contingent over the edge at 8:30 am There is continual emphasis on safety, self- motivation, mateship, team participation and The Army officer in charge of the abseiling leadership training. Most cadets learn Cadets was Captain Bronwyn Struthers. important skills which they carry throughout The event was part of a five day adventure life. training program designated as a Cadet Australian Army Cadets (AAC) are particularly Initiated Activity ("CIA 06") which ran from 16 keen to attract new members in the Centenary to 21 July 2006. All the abseiling Cadets also year. Information about unit locations can be participated in other Army style adventure obtained by phoning Brigade Headquarters on training activities during the week. These 9311 2545. included canoeing, mountain biking and caving in the southwest. Media liaison Dr Paul Weaver Qualified Unit Adventure-Training Leaders are Australian Army Cadets Brigade from various ADF units. Civilian accredited Leeuwin Barracks, East Fremantle AAC members provided instructor support for Fax: (08) 9311 2544 all activities. Phone: (08) 9339 6593 (Home) Army Cadets offer one of the most respected Mobile: 04 2293 5624 youth training programs in the nation. There [email protected] THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 9 The Battle of Long-Tan Introduction constant poor conditions while in to our direct front, 42 surrounded, the field were generally little better 43 pinned down attempting to 40 years ago, Australian soldiers than in camp as at this stage there reach them.” The artillery fought perhaps the most significant was a lot of work required in the continued with rounds now falling battle involving Australians during base camp area to build up dangerously close to the friendly the Viet-Nam War. In the late defences. location. The success this had on afternoon of 18 August 1966 Delta preventing the enemy from overrun Company 6 RAR fought for their At 0243 hours on the morning of the position was immeasurable. At lives for three hours in pouring rain, the 17 August the 1 ATF Base came 1720 hrs, artillery began firing amid the mud and shattered trees of under mortar and RCL attack. regimental missions as ordered by the Long-Tan rubber plantation in Conflicting reports arrived from the FO, CAPT Stanley. Phouc-Tuy Province. Facing an various units as to the direction enemy force of some 2500 NVA and from which the mortars had been D Coy reported that all Pls and Viet-Cong, this company, fired, but eventually the Artillery at CHQ were under attack from the comprising mostly young National the base camp returned with a east and south. Arty fire was Servicemen led by a few regulars, counter fire plan. The following brought into 100m from 11 Pl. The called upon all facets of battlefield morning further patrols were sent strike aircraft requested earlier support for survival. But above all from the base to find the location of reported they were unable to give it called most heavily upon the the enemy mortars, and harass the close support to the now desperate determination, professionalism and VC responsible. Earlier intelligence D Coy due to the cloud cover and courage of the soldiers on the reports had still not ruled out the torrential rain. Visibility was ground. threat of 174 and 175 Regimens, reduced to nil and the aircraft plus D445 Battalion mounting an dropped their ordnance to the north The Battle of Long-Tan was costly attack on the 1 ATF Base. This was At 1540 hrs a group of six VC story, somebody was in trouble. B east. for Australia. 17 members of D Coy literally walked into 11 Pl. They Coy was halted on its return to base unlikely, although not impossible, Back at the 1 ATF Base 5 RAR took and one member of 3 Tp. 1 APC were fired at and subsequently and told to move back to D Coy and thus 5 RAR were ordered to over the defence of the perimeter. Sqn lost their lives and a total of 21 withdrew. 11 Pl reported the location. 1 APC Sqn was placed on return to Nui-Dat. The RSM, WO1 George Chinn, soldiers were wounded. However, contact to CHQ and stated that the 15 minutes notice to move a rifle organised the ammunition resupply, the damage inflicted on the enemy B Coy, 6 RAR spent the day of the enemy was dressed Khaki uniforms. company out to the rubber and at 1800 hrs the arty ceased for was significant, with 260 confirmed 17 August sweeping the area to the This went basically unnoticed by all plantation. 15 minutes to allow the resupply to dead and evidence to suggest that east of Nui-Dat while A Coy had concerned by indicated that the get to D Coy. With the aid of several hundred more were carried several sightings of small groups of enemy may have been Main Force 11 Pl were almost surrounded, smoke the resupply was successful; wounded or dying from the enemy but nothing to suggest a soldiers and not the expected suffering heavy casualties and failing literally into the hands of the battlefield. larger force. On 18 August, D Coy, village guerrillas. The Pl Comd of unable to withdraw. 2LT Sharp was CSM, who quickly organised its under Major Harry Smith, was 11 Pl, 2LT Sharp called in arty fire killed and SGT Bob Buick took This action by D Coy was distribution. ordered to relieve B Coy and locate on the enemy withdrawal route over. 10 Pl were pushed around recognised with the awarding of the the baseplate position used for the from the North to give support to 11 Presidential Unit Citation by the about 500 meters from the original earlier attack. For most men in contact. 11 Pl then followed up the Pl and allow them to withdraw. A President of the United States, Delta Coy this was seen as just mass of fire started in 10 PL location The smoke also aided the Lyndon B. Johnson. enemy and chased them to a small another patrol. The only difference hut, where a Pl attack was and all radio communications withdrawal of both 10 Pl and the was this one was going to deprive conducted to ensure the hut was between 10, 11 and CHQ were lost. remainder of 11 Pl, who managed The Battle them of the concert. free of enemy. No one was found The second signaller from CHQ to crawl back to CHQ. At 1820 hrs dashed to 10 Pl and Major Smith reported that the The Battle of Long-Tan occurred in so they then continued the advance At 1035 hrs Delta Coy left the base communications were soon enemy could be reorganising for the late afternoon of 18 August 1966 into the rubber plantation. The and began their patrol eastwards, at restored. Artillery fire engaged another attack and that they had in a rubber plantation some 4500 soldiers were not fully alert and 11 that stage a full strength company targets to the south and helped to broken contact. He stated that he meters to the south east of the Task Pl were moving towards a small of 108 all ranks. Meanwhile Alpha suppress the fire of an enemy had two Pls of about 75% Force base at Nui-Dat. The events clearing in the rubber. Company was continuing their mortar position to the east. effectiveness and one Pl virtually of previous days set the scene. patrol south back to the 1 ATF Base. It was 1608 hrs and 11 Pl had Casualties from 10 Pl now began to non-effective. The company had On 16 August, 5 RAR were At 1200 hrs the B Coy patrol that reached a small barbed wire fence, arrive at CHQ but 20 Pl had hastily reorganised into all round patrolling in an area of jungle to the had followed the enemy trail to the when a mass of fire broke out to managed to get to within 100 defence and the ammunition north of 1 ATF Base. They were south found another RCL position their immediate front. The platoon meters of 11 Pl before being halted resupply was complete. went to ground and began to return by small arms fire. trying to locate enemy identified in with signs of at least 2 wounded A Coy and 3 TP were about 800m the latest intelligence reports. VC, presumably as a result of the fire. There was a pause in the fire and 2LT Sharp ordered 5 Sect to LT Kendall and his Pl were ordered away and they were struggling to Reports varied in estimates of artillery counter fire. to withdraw to the CHQ position get to D Coy. As they got closer enemy strengths operating in the conduct a clearing patrol to the The men of D Coy effected their RV dur to the large numbers of they began to take fire, and area from 300 to 3500. However platoon front. No sooner had 5 Sect with B Coy at 1300 hrs. The two casualties it had received. As 10 Pl reported that they had contacted the most recent patrols had only begun to carry out this task when CHQs exchanged the relevant arrived in the company location possibly three enemy companies fleeting contacts with 3-6 man the mass of fire commenced again. information about the enemy they were placed on the ground to who withdrew after being fired groups. There appeared to be little This time the fire appeared to be positions and then B Coy returned provide defence fro the casualties. upon the APCs. B Coy, moving on to add any substance to reports of more deliberate and intense than on to Nui-Dat. Major Smith decided to At the same time 12 Pl reached a foot, were also closing up behind D three enemy regiments operating in the first occasion. 2LT Sharp follow the trail to the east and Delta reported a platoon size enemy to position about 100 meters behind Coy. the area. 11 Pl and came under heavy fire: began its search along the track his direct front, changing this to a B Coy arrived in Delta’s loc and they were subsequently attacked A Coy, 6 RAR were also away from running east to the Long-Tan rubber company size enemy in the ensuing were used to cover the approach from the north east. The attacks the Nui-Dat base involved in patrol plantation. After a while the minutes. This time the firing from the west. Shortly after this 3TP continued on 11 Pl and CHQ and 10 work but they were operating to the footpads divided into two, and ran persisted and 60mm mortars began and A Coy moved across D Coy’s Pl were now also being subject to east and north-east. A Coy had about 300 meters apart but roughly to fall on their position. Major front, firing the 50 and 30 cals of the attacks from the east. At the same been in three small contacts, killing parallel. Major Smith adjusted his Smith tried to move his HQ and 12 APCs, much to the relief of D Coy. time an ammunition resupply by 2 VC and capturing one. Once company to suit, changing to a two- Pl forward to aid 11 Pl. 10 Pl on the The Commanding Officer arrived helicopter was called for. again nothing to indicate a large up formation. He placed 10 Pl left also began to move to the mass with A Coy and took control. A Coy force. under LT Geoff Kendall as the of fire that centred around 11 Pl. Meanwhile, 3TP 1 APC Sqn carrying covered the east while Delta took forward left, 11 Pl under 2LT The artillery from the Task Force A Coy were heading towards D Coy care of their dead and wounded. A Back at Nui-Dat the remaining Gordon Sharp on the high ground began to rocket in, with missions of location, as was the CO 6 RAR, casualty evacuation was organised soldiers were looking forward to a to the forward right and 12 Pl under 10 rounds FFE and repeats being LTCOL Townsend. The going in the in a clearing some 750m away with planned concert by Col Joy and 2LT David Sabben to the centre rear called. The Battle of Long-Tan had late afternoon torrential downpour the APCs forming a hollow square Little Patti on 18 August. The behind CHQ. begun and 11 Pl was ordered to was very slow and the move was using their tail lights and internal withdraw. CHQ and 12 Pl not without its problems, however lights with top hatches open to continued moving forward until non that quite matched the guide the incoming choppers. The firing that was going over the heads problems of D Coy at that point of following morning, after a sleepless of 11 Pl began to fall in their time. Light was almost gone as was night with constant threat of further position. the ammunition. It seemed attacks, battlefield clearance NEW ADM IS HERE! impossible for Delta to hold on any commenced. D Coy again were up Meanwhile A Coy had just returned front for this task. to Nui-Dat, and were warned out longer. for movement. The continual The time was now 1710 hrs and D This was “The Battle of Long- Your medals court thumping of the gun line told the Coy reported “Enemy dug in 200m Tan”. or swing mounted Welfare and within 72 hours; Recruiting Trailer or they’re FREE!* Bookings for the enable the trailer to be Welfare and used as an education Membership Trailer are vehicle on military history Your medals are your family’s heritage, have them professionally mounted with on hold for the next 6-8 to be displayed at country totally inert, acid free mounting materials ready to wear - guaranteed no acidic weeks as we are now schools, as well as double-sided tapes or superglues - or frame them for posterity! Only museum able to give the trailer a providing information and quality materials are used to safely mount your medals. *If riband is in stock, we’ll complete overhaul. promotion for Welfare and have them mounted for you within 72 hours! Membership of the RSL. The Nollamara Sub-Branch Heritage Medals Group/Military Framers has very kindly given the Advance bookings for the 9/7 Delage Street Joondalup - Phone 1300 797 465 trailer a home under cover trailer can be made by 298 Railway Parade Cannington - Phone 9358 5058 and plan to make the contacting Olga Greig Shop online 24x7x365 at www.heritagemedals.com.au necessary alterations to 92763493. 10 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 COLLINS CLASS SUBMARINE Heavyweight torpedo full rate production decision On 22 June 2006, approval was given to This was demonstrated in test firings in submarine to be converted to handle and proceed to Full Rate Production for the MK December 2005 in a shallow water fire the new weapon is progressing to 48 Advanced Capability Common environment off the Western Australian schedule during its current Full Cycle Broadband Advanced Sonar System (ADCAP coast by a USN submarine against the Royal Docking. Initial sea trials are scheduled for CBASS) Mod 7 heavyweight torpedo. Australian Navy’s (RAN) world-class Collins mid 2007. The torpedo is a product of a joint diesel submarines. engineering,development, manufacturing The joint operational test activity Co-Operating with the US Navy means we and support project between Australia and demonstrated the extent to which the two have the opportunity to influence design the United States and will be the primary countries utilise each others' capabilities and and development of systems and to weapon aboard both nations’ submarines. assets to develop and test a state of the art participate in a continuous improvement This important milestone demonstrates the weapon. programme to deliver the latest technology continuing success of the joint program, advances for Australia’s submarine fleet. From weapons assembly, to firing, to data highlighting the development and analysis, the United States Navy (USN) operational testing carried out in Australia as Australia’s Submarine fleet is an important together with the RAN performed the well as the work of Australia’s weapons international testing in harmony. element of our National Maritime Strategy facility in WA in building up the weapons for and a vital asset in the protection of test. Modifications to HMAS Waller, the first Australia's strategic interests. HMAS Warramunga

Welcome Aboard HMAS Warramunga is the second Royal Australian Navy (RAN) ship to bear the name and is the third ANZAC Class Guided Missile Frigate to be built for the RAN by Tenix Defence Systems in Williamstown , Australia . Warramunga is a long-range frigate capable of air defence, surface and undersea warfare, surveillance, reconnaissance and interdiction. Warramunga is fitted with an advanced package of air and surface surveillance radars; omni-directional hull mounted sonar and electronic support systems that interface with the state-of-the-art 9LV453 Mk3 combat data system. The ship can counter simultaneous threats from aircraft, surface vessels and submarines. The ship's main armament comprises one five HMA Ships ANZAC, Arunta, Stuart, embarked as an alternative to the Seasprite. The WARRAMUNGA name is derived from the inch (127 mm) gun capable of firing 20 Parramatta, Ballarat and Toowoomba feature Warramunga (also spelt Warumungu) HMAS Warramunga (I) was the second of rounds per minute, ship launched Mk 46 a "Combined Diesel or Gas" (CODOG) Aboriginal people from the Tennant Creek three Australian built Tribal class destroyers. torpedoes and a Mk 41 vertical launch system propulsion plant enables the ship to sustain area and the ship's badge depicts a fearsome She served with distinction in WW II with the for the Evolved Sea Sparrow point defence sprint speeds of greater than 27 knots and Warumungu tribesman about to throw a missile. Warramunga also has eight anti- allows an operational range in excess of 6,000 US 7th Fleet in the Pacific, the Korean boomerang. The blue and yellow background ship/land attach canister launched harpoon nautical miles at 18 knots. campaign, the Malayan Insurgency and with represents the sky and a desert hillside. missiles and a vertical launch system for the The SH-2G(A) Super Seasprite helicopter can the United Nations Forces in Korea . The Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile. The ship's other be embarked to enhance anti-submarine and following battle honours have been awarded The motto "Courage in Difficulties" honours defence systems include the Nulka active anti-surface warfare capabilities. The to Warramunga (I) : Pacific 1943-1945, New the Warumungu tribe's life of courage in their missile decoy system, offboard chaff and a Seasprite is capable of delivering air-launched Guinea 1943-1944, Leyte Gulf 1944 ( harsh environment as well as the Second torpedo countermeasures system. torpedoes and the Penguin anti-ship missile. Philippines ), Lingayen Gulf 1945 ( World War Tribal Class Destroyer, HMAS HMAS Warramunga, like her sister frigates The S-70B-2 Seahawk helicopter can also be Philippines ) and Korea 1950-1952 WARRAMUNGA.

Above: Commander John Hielscher and HMAS Warramunga. Right: The flight deck. HMAS Warramunga You never know departs fleet base who it might help West for operational Bring new hope to those with cancer by making a gift in your will. Bequests to The Cancer Council WA duties in the Gulf help fund life saving research that will ultimately help us defeat cancer. Commander John Hielscher, RAN and the 184 ship’s company of the ANZAC Class Frigate HMAS Warramunga, were today For confidential information about farewelled by family and friends as the ship departed her making a bequest The Maritime Commander, Rear Admiral Davyd Thomas also homeport of Fleet Base West at Garden Island Western thanked the families and friends of the Navy personnel deploying to The Cancer Council WA Australia to commence passage to the Persian Gulf. to the Gulf for their ongoing support. please call Suzanne Cavanagh on (08) 9212 4333 HMAS Warramunga will take over duties from HMAS Ballarat to “Their support to the men and women who deploy today makes a provide an ongoing contribution to the rehabilitation and difference to the ability of our personnel to get on and do the job reconstruction of Iraq. This includes the important work of they are tasked with,” Rear Admiral Thomas said. protecting Iraq’s offshore export oil terminals and monitoring, intercepting and boarding vessels suspected of illegally trafficking Background cargo that diverts funds from the Iraqi economy. This is HMAS Warramunga’s first deployment to the “After intensive training and preparation the ship’s company of Persian Gulf and is the fourteenth rotation of Navy 46 Ventnor Avenue, West Perth WA 6005 HMAS Warramunga are well prepared and are looking forward to ships as part of coalition operations since 2001. Tel (08) 9212 4333 this deployment” Commander Hielscher said. Fax (08) 9212 4334 HMAS Ballarat, which is currently on station in the e-mail: [email protected] Senator David Johnston, representing the Minister for Defence, Gulf, departed Australia in March 2006 and is planned www.cancerwa.asn.au joined family and friends to farewell Warramunga as she left to return to Australia in early September 2006. Western Australia. THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 11 2005Annual –Report 2006 This year marks the 90th anniversary of the foundation of the League and I am honoured to be able to report to you on its achievements for the current year and the vision we have charted for the future.

The past year has been an outstanding The current Plan will continue to be a year for the W.A. Branch. The blueprint from which the State administrative restructure and Executive will operate for the next five governance model has delivered a years and it will be constantly progressive, responsive and sharply monitored to ensure progress is along focussed organization that is the planned course. committed to serving its membership. The RSL, as the peak ex-service Many of the initiatives set in place as organisation in Western Australia, long term projects several years ago continues to show strong leadership have now started to deliver the in the veteran community and expected outcomes and this can be contributes responsibly with comment seen in almost every area of our on many social and community issues. operation. It regularly challenges decisions that have or could impact on veterans and We are now operating within the at all times stood steadfastly for those corporate environment and .have traditional values that are essential in retained command and control over our society. In that context we our traditional functions and core continue to maintain a strong a- business. political position and as such have Our Corporate Plan is regularly enjoyed the on-going support from reviewed against our key performance both sides of parliament at indicators to ensure we are operating Commonwealth and State level. Our within our Charter. I am confident we responsible comments, coupled with are conducting our business with best a willingness to address controversial Above: Soldiers at the Opening of the 90th Annual practice, aimed at achieving issues places us in high esteem with Report. Inset William E. Gaynor OAM RFD State excellence in our service delivery. the media and the general public. President

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3(7(5'($1 $0%$66$'25 6XSSRUWHGE\ (;&/86,9(/<)256(1,256 12 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 2005Annual –Report 2006 We continue to take every opportunity though the application of some of the level claims to the Department of to present a good public image provisions contained within the Act Veteran’s Affairs and the Military through our exposure as a caring may need to be addressed. Compensation and Rehabilitation organisation that takes the future We have identified that the new Act is Scheme as well as the Veterans Review security and development of our primarily applicable to the military. Board. Our services also includes country seriously. We are regularly The Australian Federal and State Police representation for Veterans at The consulted on many topical issues and who are deployed overseas on peace- Administrative Appeals Tribunal. are invited to make public comment keeping duties are not provided with It is interesting to note that there has on social, commemorative, security appropriate cover under this new been a slight reduction in the number and veterans’ affairs matters. legislation. Thankfully the government of new claims for DVA but an increase Welfare have implemented an interim in Section 31 reviews and VRB cases. arrangement to protect those so The welfare of veterans is our core Our Advocate’s work extends to deployed. There is still a need for business and continues to be the main providing a consultancy role to our some independent legislation to cover focus of our activities. volunteer pension officers – both those on such duty. within the RSL and to external As part of the founding Charter the RSL The State Branch continues to host the agencies. His expertise in handling is there for all veterans, not just RSL younger veteran’s forum, aimed at Repatriation Medical Authority cases members. We are a lifeline to those discussing the repatriation need of and knowledge of the various veterans in distressed or necessitous post-Viet-Nam service personnel. Statement of Principles associated with circumstances. Our welfare structure at While we have seen progress made in cases make him a valuable resource both State and sub branch excels in addressing issues related to transitional and asset to the RSL. Mr Boland has dealing promptly with those who seek processes, superannuation and also acquired a sound working assistance. Contacts are professionally compensation issues, health and knowledge of Comsuper issues and in dealt with and those in genuine need wellbeing matters and counselling June this year he had the opportunity receive suitable care. Confidentiality is services there are still on going to attend an Advocates conference in of prime importance and the rights of concerns in these areas that need to be Melbourne where he was able to put the individual are well respected by addressed by RSL at both State and our local perspective before a national our trained officers. National levels. We have undertaken to forum In the year under review the State work with this group of young people His workload is on the increase, with Branch has initiated a complete review to assist them to establish a sound and focus on elderly World War II Veterans of RSL’s welfare operations. A select secure future for themselves and their seeking EDA pensions. committee has been established with families. terms of reference to look at how we Tenders closed in March 2006 for the RSL Retirement & Aged Care serve the veteran community and to supply of Tier One hospital services in Association- Trading as RSL Care gauge the effectiveness of our the Perth Metropolitan Area. We (WA) commitment. The committee will look expect that the new mode of operation The redevelopment of the former War at funding sources and disbursements will be announced shortly. The new Veteran’s Homes site at Menora is now at State and sub branch level and make care providers to assume control of developed to raise awareness of sub contracts will offer veterans open in its final stage. We are proceeding to their administration. Country Shires branch Officers in matters related to recommendations for improvement. It access to private hospitals that meet plan and on budget. In the period is our aim to engage in providing have also entered into discussion with financial management, welfare issues, the contracts requirements. While the under review the Independent Living the RSL over the provision of membership processing and pensions superior service to veterans through Branch has no problem with open Units both Apartment Blocks have this review. retirement and aged care facilities in entitlements. Two modules have their towns. already been presented and have been This year State Branch committed well well received and supported. over $200,000 to veterans in need and I am now delighted to again say, this is in addition to the on site financially, the Retirement and Aged ANZAC Club counselling and domestic assistance Care Association has put the At long last the refurbishment of offered by sub branches throughout horrendous losses of the past behind ANZAC Club – and House – has been the State. them. There has been a dramatic completed. With over six months of improvement in operating accounts As in past years we continue to access disruption we finally have a facility that and with respect to the redevelopment is outstanding. Our special thanks go funding to cater for an ever increasing initiatives; we have not had to draw on demand for welfare funding. to Lottery West who provided the bank finance to service the projects. funds and also to the architect and Government grants from Lotterywest, The Board of Management led by the Returned Sailors, Soldiers and contractors who have delivered to us a Graeme Sherriff with its financial facility that will last for years to come. Airmen’s Relief Trust Fund are experts, lawyers and businessmen has generous in their allocations and this is used their collective knowledge to Since refurbishment, changes to the further supplemented at sub branch ensure the success of the method of operation and delivery of level from the Annual Poppy Day redevelopment project and the service to members using ANZAC Club Street Appeal that forms the basis of operational viability of our Aged Care have resulted in favourable reports sub branch amelioration accounts. facilities. from members as well as an increase state branch is also very appreciative of in patronage. Shortly we will be Our success is a credit to their the substantial donations to its welfare offering a breakfast service as well as commitment. operations from Sub Branches. This an alfresco coffee area on the Terrace has enabled a far wider group of Finance While this has not yet translated into veterans in need to receive assistance. Our overall financial position increased profits it is expected that, in Our outreach programs continue to continues to improve. Budget controls time, with better surroundings, quality operate. Our welfare staff and and sound financial management have product and improved service we will volunteers led by Mrs Pat Rowland contributed to this position. Much of be able to attract greater member continue to co-ordination our various the credit to placing us in this position usage as well as private functions. welfare entities. Cypress cottage (our is due to the late Brian Martin, our Shortly displays of our memorabilia half-way house) the Legal Service, treasurer, until his untimely death an and establishment of the Library will prison welfare and overseas pensions August last year. We are now provide an amenity that we hope will benefiting from his wise counsel while be well used by members. applications still fall within the overall access it will object in the strongest been completed and are now he occupied that position. framework of our welfare operations possible way if there is any occupied. The State Executive has every and all are serviced with efficiency and His successor, Mr Paul Rengel has confidence in Ian Mulholland and his compromise in the extent and quality The community centre and chapel are compassion. taken up the reins from Brian and Corporate Affairs Committee that when of the current services offered. We will completed and occupied and the all initiatives are fully functional eterans’ Issues not trade off open access for quality of official opening of the Chapel was firmly established himself as part of the V ANZAC Club will be an asset – and no service. recently held. executive team Acting on advice from the various longer a liability. veteran groups our Veteran Affairs The Department of Veteran’s Affairs It is planned to hold an official The Finance Committee meet regularly Committee was restructured to make it recently conducted a review of how it opening of the total complex during and monitor all aspects of League embership finances. There are still areas of M more representative and responsive to conducts its business with the Veteran the National Congress in September. Our membership has plateaued at veteran affairs issues. Representation Community. The review, prompted by concern but these are being addressed. With the generous financial assistance around 13,000 members. While most from major Ex-Service Organizations a projected decline in demand for its The Branch also expresses gratitude to of $300,000 from the National State Branches are experiencing a were invited to join the committee and services, looked at a departmental the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, the Headquarters our architects have decline in membership we have been bring to the table their particular restructure that would continue to State Government and in particular completed all necessary able to maintain our numbers despite issues. This has proved an outstanding provide a quality service to veterans. Lottery West for their on-going support documentation and have let a $16m the loss of our aging Second World success as the level of debate in this The new method of operation has for Veterans in funding equipment, tender for the construction and fit out War Veterans. An aggressive, well- area of our operations has proved been well received and supported by furniture and events Without such of our 120-bed high care nursing resourced recruiting drive has beneficial.a the veteran community in Western support we would be struggling. The home. It is expected that building will produced results not only in the Australia and once fully operational grants to refurbish ANZAC House were WAVAC Chairman, Mr Ray Ward has be completed around September, stability of membership but with the will see that the quality service we are most welcome and with the regularly represented our WA Veterans 2007. The completed facility will be a opening of four new sub branches accustomed to is maintained and headquarters transformed into a facility at the National Veteran Affairs ‘state of the art’ facility that will These new sub branches will be perhaps enhanced. that will service the members and Committee and has regular contact incorporate a dementia wing. presented with their Charters later this with DVA Officers and several working dvocacy veteran community for years to come morning. I am also pleased to A Upgrading of our other facility at committees. I am confident that the I’m sure all members will concur with announce that no sub branches have Our advocacy service continues to Meadow Springs in Mandurah has voice of WA Veterans is now well and my remarks. surrendered their Charters. represent Ex Service personnel in their been completed and is now a modern truly heard on the National scene. I must at this stage acknowledge the on-going claims for entitlements. In the well run facility With declining membership, The new Military Rehabilitation and last twelve months we have seen the bequest State Branch received from the particularly in country regions, it is Compensation Act is now in force. It retirement of Mrs Margot Harness and We have independent living unit will of one of our members. His essential that we maintain a presence has received cautious approval from the appointment of Mr Jim Boland as villages at Mandurah and Geraldton bequest will be applied to the welfare in those areas. State Executive have the veteran community and is being our senior advocate. I do acknowledge with plans to develop new centres at and administration of the League. endorsed the establishment of ‘Post closely monitored to ensure any the great work done by Mrs Harness Geraldton, Dongara and Jurien Bay. In an endeavour to facilitate best Box Sub Branches’ which will activate anomalies are quickly addressed. At and wish her well for the future. Our Our creditability in the industry is also practice in sub branch administration a for ceremonial and welfare matters, this point in time it would appear as focus continues to be on both primary evident with approaches by other aged series of training modules has been The concept is being developed but THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 13

Currently data is being analysed and willingness of the Administration and attended by some five hundred a report prepared. It will be of grounds staff to help us is a feature mourners. interest to all members as it could of the cooperation that exists NZAC Day Act form the basis for our recruiting and between both organizations. A membership initiatives. Thanks go to The Anzac Day Act was presented to ommunity War Memorials David Messer, Director of Marketing C parliament in the closing months of for driving this project. As part of the State’s 175 Anniversary 2004. Unfortunately it’s progress celebrations and to commemorate stalled and upon the rising of Defence the 60th Anniversary of the end of Parliament and the calling of an The Defence Committee has been the Second World War forty local election the Act was set-aside for active throughout the year, communities received grants to some future time. We understand particularly with reference to policy refurbish, their War Memorial. This that in the coming session of decisions being concerning the war initiative was announced by the parliament it will be represented and in Iraq and on homeland security. Premier when he opened our 2003 should be passed without much Their deliberations and advice has Congress. This funding continued trouble. We await the outcome. been of value, particularly when last year with a further $250 000 One of its provisions is the there is a need to comment on the being granted to communities for compulsory conduct of ANZAC Day interpretation of defence policy. Public Address Systems to ensure Services in government schools. It is The RSL continues to acknowledge ceremonies were conducted with expected that sub branches will the professionalism of our defence dignity. actively support schools in the force personnel and the magnificent Those communities that received conduct of these services through the work carried out by our deployed funding are now able to conduct provision of quality speakers to troops. The Australian Forces commemorative activities at a ensure due recognition is given to Overseas Fund sends over two Memorial that is a fitting place to the importance of the Day. thousand gift parcels to our honours our fallen. Communications deployed troops and from reports ommemorative Services received such a gesture is well C Effective two-way communication is appreciated by our men and women Our commemorative services on vital in any organisation. We have on operational deployment. ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day been able to provide sub branches continue to enjoy outstanding with up to date information through The issue of a medal to recognise community support. This support is the Sub Branch Signal and the service in the Australian Defence not only in Perth but is evident membership at large with Forces has finally been resolved. throughout the length and breadth of information and items of general Unfortunately not to everyone’s Western Australia. In Perth the interest through The Listening Post. satisfaction. The RSL is strongly in generous funding from Lotterywest favour of recognition for those who Both these publications are of high enables us to provide facilities for the serve their country and in this quality in their production is of ever-increasing crowds at King’s Park respect acknowledged the professional standard. Plans are now and on Langley Park Reserve. with the heightened interest in the Government’s ‘Spirit of ANZAC Tour’ government’s initiative. in hand to widen the distribution of community for ANZAC Day and program has seen groups of young This year an estimated 40,000 ‘The Listening Post’ to related other RSL matters it is essential we senior school students visiting State War Memorial persons attended the Dawn Service community and service maintain a presence in as many areas battlefields where Australians have The State War Memorial in King’s while some 30,000 participated in the organizations. I thank Len Copley throughout Western Australia as fought. These tours are now firmly Park is the focus for the majority of March.. At the Dawn Service, the and his editorial team for their possible. supported by the RSL. our sponsors our commemorative services. gathering crowds were provided commitment in producing a high The Community Link Programme – and the Government and are a fitting We were also fortunate to have the with visual images and appropriate quality media presentation to our an initiative of the Queensland State reward for our young people. services of The Hon Richard Court commentary on large television members Branch – is beginning to find its way RSL involvement in the Education AC as State War Memorial Warden screens of Australian troops on the into Western Australia. Boddington Department’s Spirit of ANZAC Tour’ and Sub Wardens from The Highgate First and Second World War Sub-Branches & Associations and Ballajura Sub Branches have in the planning and selection of Sub Branch who were capably battlefields. The strength of our organisation is in solid support from their local schools students is a positive way that shows organised by Deputy Warden Phillip The ANZAC Day March was our sub branch network. Our 135 and with the involvement of our RSL’s commitment to youth and our Skelton AM who assisted him. Their televised and transmitted over the sub branches do a magnificent job, youth in our affairs we can certainly commemorative activities. presence serves to enhance the ABC Network throughout Western not only in servicing the needs of the see our way forward in passing our To service our Cadet travel many solemn ceremonial services Australia so providing a fitting Veterans, but also presenting the values and traditions on to future programme we continue to enjoy that take place within the precinct. reminder to all of the sacrifices our public face of the RSL to their local generations. I do acknowledge Dr generous financial support from Steffan Silcox, Principal of Ballajura Hollywood Private Hospital whose Community College for embracing generosity services our National and Community Link and getting his State ‘Cadet of the Year’ programs. students involved in our activities. Incidentally, it is the BCC that is Western Australia State Branch, in providing us with our musical association with ADF has assumed program today – and at the 90th responsibility for the planning and Anniversary dinner this evening. conduct of the National Cadet of the Year Programme. Now in its third Our recruiting initiatives have year of operation the programme is produced remarkable results. The one that is attracting strong support Recruiting/information trailer – our within the Service Cadet movement. travelling information centre – is about to undergo a refurbishment This year the State Cadets visited the and with some modest sponsorship Borneo, the site of the Sandakan will become a regular feature at city Death March while the National and country shows and functions. Group visited Kokoda. In 2007 we plan to amalgamate the Affiliates National and State Groups and In November, 2004 work service personnel made in the community. When we work in Affiliates of sub branches play an support the National RSL Cadet of commenced on the refurbishment of defence of their country. partnership with them we then have important role in assisting in the the Year. the State War Memorial. The repairs Unfortunately, torrential rain forced a strong voice on service, civil and administration and development of We proudly acknowledge the involved the dismantling of the us to abandon the Service at Langley social issues. our organisation at sub branch level. sponsorship of Australian Defence structure and rectification of drainage Park – the first time in some 52 years In association with The Australian They have joined us as a way of Credit in their co sponsorship of the problems, a rebuild of the that we have had to make such a Research Council, Curtin University showing support for the ideals and Annual Service Cadet Efficiency foundations, the obelisk and decision. and Lottery West the RSL is entering principles for which the League associated plinths. The total cost of Trophy. A magnificent Perpetual and The Sixtieth Anniversary of the end into agreement to secure a grant to stands. this project was just over one million Annual Trophy, together with a of the Second World War (VP Day) engage in a study of how local dollars. The community is grateful to National Congress in September cheque for $500 is presented became the focus of community communities relate to their War both Commonwealth and State approved new rules to cover annually to each of the service Cadet celebrations on 15th August, 2005. Memorials. It is an interesting study Governments for the financial affiliates and this will empower State units judged as the most efficient for With generous funding from the of local communities and their support to undertake such a project. Branches to prepare By Laws the current year. Commonwealth Government people and how they perceive the governing their affiliation with the RSL, at all levels, is delighted to be The re-dedication ceremony, held on celebrations were held in Fremantle sacrifices their members have made RSL. The only limitation specified involved with the youth. The 1 July, 2005 was a memorable and in Perth. Street parades, in the defence of their country. was that an affiliate is not to be a sub enthusiasm and positive response occasion with Premier Geoff Gallop entertainment and a civic reception As visits are made to sub branches it branch President or a Congress from the recipients, their schools, unveiling a plaque to commemorate for Second World War veterans will is a delight to note the mature and Voting Delegate. families and wider community is the occasion. no doubt bring back memories for professional manner in which issues State Executive has approved new proof that our organisation is held in As a matter of interest it should be those who lived through those dark are treated. The Branch also State By-Laws to further integrate high esteem in the community. recorded that we had one person, a days in Australian History. acknowledges the members of the Affiliates into sub branches to Special thanks go to Olga Greig and long serving RSL Member, present at Remembrance Day also highlighted Unit and Kindred Organisations. recognise the valued contribution her committee for their work in co the dedication of the Memorial in the memory of our World War 1 While the RSL is responsible to its they make to the organization. ordinating our youth affairs. 1929. Sir Charles Court, as a young veterans. Sadly, there are none left to membership through the Sub Branch We must however be careful to Marketing cornet player in the RSL Memorial honour in person, but their deeds network, the input on ceremonial distinguish between Affiliates and Band at that time had the distinction and actions will live on to be and policy matters that is offered is One of our most important portfolios Social Members. Their role in sub of playing on that occasion. recognised by future generations. valued and enables the RSL to be branch affairs is totally different and is that of Marketing. Many of our aware of the specific needs of It is with pleasure that the RSL must be recognised by sub branches members would have received a It is also with regret that we record members of various associations. acknowledges the support of the soliciting such members. professionally designed survey the passing of the last Australian First seeking information on membership King’s Park and Botanical Gardens World War Veteran from Western Working side by side with sub Youth Programs profiles. With the assistance of Curtin Board. Without their assistance many Australia, Mr Peter Casserly, who branches are the ladies of the Our focus on youth through the RSL University a research project has of the projects and commemorative died at the aged 107 years. He was Women’s Auxiliary. National and State ‘Cadet of the Year’ been undertaken to enable us to activities associated with the veteran farewelled with a State Funeral at For years they have supported the programmes and the WA better service our membership. community could not be held. The Fremantle on 1st July, 2005 that was RSL in social activities, fund raising 14 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 2005Annual –Report 2006 and caring for, and visiting our elderly and sick commemorative activities that would not really • Implementation of the recommendations of ur 90th Anniversary veterans. Their work is valued at both branch O have achieved our desire to promote that the Welfare Review As mentioned, this year we celebrate our 90th and sub branch level. which many Australians fought and died for – • Further development of RSL Care WA profile Anniversary. To provide a legacy for our freedom, democracy and a very unique way of in the Aged Care industry Our parent body, The Returned and Services younger generation the League commissioned life. League of Australia Limited meet quarterly in Rybuck Media to produce a resource for • Continuation of strong alliances with Canberra. The State President and the State schoolchildren that will encourage them to The Way Ahead corporate entities Secretary represent this branch. Matters relating research the foundations of the League and The next twelve months will be challenging for • A Review of sub branch operations through to Veteran’s affairs issues as well as League how RSL has influenced the society in which the League in Western Australia as we continue regular visits and training modules; and Policy are regularly discussed. They are at all we live. It is an impressive programme and one to implement our Corporate Plan. • An enhancement of our leadership role in times clearly focussed on satisfying the need of which will open the enquiring minds of our the Veteran Community the veteran community. children. We could have funded a range of Priority initiatives will be: Acknowledgments To the State Executive and League Trustees, thanks are expressed for the commitment made to the League and loyalty to the State Life’s easier with a scooter Branch. The task of serving on committees and representing the membership is demanding but also rewarding. In particular the country representatives do a magnificent job in keeping Let Rosie give you some tips our country sub branches in touch. The reports that are furnished provide the State Executive Since Scooters Australia was established in 1990, ‘Rosie’ has with a good overview of happenings at our been our happy mascot. Rosie represents all the freedom, fun many country outposts. and mobility that a scooter can open up for you. The work of State Secretary Shane Seers, his office staff and his assistant State Secretary’s We’ve developed a list of Rosie’s Scooter Tips. 15 simple but Gary Sutherland and Geoff (Blue) Dunne is valued. Their loyalty, professionalism and really useful tips for safe enjoyment of your scooter. Things like: willingness to undertake tasks at short notice are very much valued. Scooter ‘road rules’ are the same as for a pedestrian The branch further acknowledges the support given to the League by our Patron, Dr Ken Lean forward when starting on a slope Michael AC, Governor of Western Australia. His Excellency recently commenced his term of Approach gutters, ramps and slopes straight on office and has willingly participated in League activities – even though is first official function At Scooters Australia, we’ll do much more than sell you a scooter. was a bit of a wash out. We do however all We’ll match your needs to a scooter from our broad range of makes and models. We won’t leave you until you wish, Dr & Mrs Michael well for the future. understand our Safety Checklist. And we’ll be here, in the years to come, to regularly service your scooter. Conclusion We still have a long way to go in the For information or FREE home demonstrations development of the League but with the commitment of elected representatives and the ☎1800 622 633 sub branches there is a bright future for the League. www.scootersaus.com.au SC3434/LP WILLIAM E. GAYNOR OAM RFD • BRISBANE • SYDNEY • MELBOURNE • ADELAIDE • PERTH • HOBART • 20 COUNTRY DEALERS STATE PRESIDENT

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BOD52626 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 15 Lack of sleep can Australian troops cause obesity and diabetes

A recent health study has shown one in five depart Camp people are sleeping less than six and a half hours a night, making them prime targets for diabetes and other chronic illnesses. More than one in 10 people suffered from chronic daytime sleepiness, and more than three in 10 had Smitty insomnia or some other sleeping disorder. According to the study, involving a random selection of 3,300 working-aged NSW residents, sleep-deprived people were also more likely to eat more as their Australian troops have personnel at the Basic hormones become confused – leading to obesity and departed Camp Smitty in Al Training Centre in Tallil. The possibly diabetes. Overwatch Battle Group is Muthanna province after The Hollywood Clinic Insomnia Treatment looking forward to its new completing their mission Programme co-ordinator Stephanie Manis said role, maintaining its to provide a secure common problems arising from lack of sleep included engagement with the people environment for the poor concentration, irritability, no energy or of Al Muthanna from its new Japanese Iraq motivation and bad moods. Reconstruction and location. The men and Support Group (JIRSG). women of the Overwatch “The people in my programme feel like their life is Battle Group have built strong passing them by because they are living in this bubble Following the recent and trusted relationships with of lack of sleep,” Stephanie said. departure of the Japanese, the provincial leaders and the last Australian and United Iraqi Army in Al Muthanna, “They lack the ability to regain contact with their Kingdom personnel left Camp who they have supported and social life and they feel isolated and envious of people Smitty on 26 July after signing mentored throughout their who do sleep.” the facility over to the Al deployment to that province. Muthanna Provincial Council. This relationship will Stephanie said most of the people she saw didn’t present with physiological problems, as they were The 470 Australian troops continue through regular visits as part of their mainly dealing with psychological issues related to have now moved to Camp their sleep disorders. Terendak at the Tallil airbase overwatch duties. in the nearby Dhi Qar Australian troops arrived at “I have a couple of patients who have physiological province, to commence a new Camp Smitty in May 2005 and problems, such as being overweight, and I’ve found role as the Overwatch Battle have made a significant lack of sleep will only exacerbate those problems,” Group (West) as part of the contribution to the Al she said. Multi-National Division – Muthanna province. As well “Also you recover physiologically during sleep, so South East (Iraq). as providing security to the when you’re not sleeping you don’t give your body Japanese troops, the Chief of Defence Force, Air that chance to recover.” Australians provided training Chief Marshal Angus Houston to the 2nd Brigade of the Iraqi has praised the men and The survey showed people slept an average of 7.3 Army’s 10th Division, which is women of the Al Muthanna hours a night during the week and 7.5 hours on the now playing a key role in weekend. Task Group and the success providing security in Al they have achieved during the Muthanna Province. Stephanie said that everyone was different and course of their important sleeping hours depended on how each individual felt mission. The Australian task group also upon waking in the morning. managed a Civil Military “Our three rotations of Cooperation Programme, “The average person needs eight hours a night, but personnel to Al Muthanna which employed local people that’s not for everybody. If you feel bright, alert and have provided an outstanding to undertake work that will ready to go in the morning you’ve had enough sleep contribution to the benefit their own but if you’re feeling sleepy and irritable then you reconstruction and communities. 19 projects have haven’t had enough,” she said. rehabilitation activities in the been completed including: province. Their success across renovation of a grain silo, In America they found people sleeping less than five a range of tasks has helped abattoir, and media centre (to hours a night were 40 per cent more likely to get considerably with the support radio, television and diabetes 10 or 15 years down the track. transition of Al Muthanna to print media), establishment of Why is sleep necessary? Iraqi control. All Australians a veterinary centre, can be justifiably proud of the ambulance station and mobile It is essential for stimulation of growth work performed since May health clinic supporting a 2005,” Air Chief Marshal To enable dreaming which is essential for healthy doctor, dentist and psychological balance Houston said. optometrist. For rejuvenation of cells in the body, particularly those In their new role at Tallil, the The departure of the in the nervous system Australian troops will provide Australian troops follows the support to Iraqi Security transfer of security Forces in a crisis if requested responsibility in Al Muthanna Above: Pictures of the departure of by the Iraqi Government and to the Iraqi Government on Australian troops from Camp Smitty in the Multi-National Force - 13 July. The transfer of Al Muthanna province after completing ACCOMMODATION BOOST Iraq. The involvement of security to Provincial Iraqi their mission to provide a secure Australian forces in any crisis Control in Al Muthanna environment for the Japanese Iraq situation will be subject to province is an important step Reconstruction and Support Group FOR COUNTRY CANCER Australian Government towards the Iraqi Government (JIRSG). approval. The ADF will also taking control of its own PATIENTS continue training Iraqi Army security across Iraq. The Cancer Council Western Australia is now able to provide more accommodation for country cancer patients who need to travel to Perth for treatment with the opening of its Shenton Park facility. The 13 new rooms will help ease demand for accommodation which has Hollywood is still forced the Cancer Council to turn away up to 400 people a year from its existing facility for country patients, the AH Crawford Lodge in Nedlands. The building in Shenton Park was formerly the Cottage Hospice and has been modified as an interim measure to ease the pressure on the Lodge here for you in Nedlands, with a full-scale renovation expected to take 12 to 18 months to complete. The rooms at Shenton Park all have an ensuite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities, a fridge and television. You may be aware that the Department of in Geraldton and Bunbury for a number of years. The complex has a communal kitchen, dining room, lounges, a laundry Veterans’ Affairs has recently negotiated Tier More recently Coastal Private Hospital, Galliers and garden areas. Supplies for a continental breakfast are also included 1 contracts with multiple private hospitals in Private Hospital in Armadale, Peel Health Campus in the tariff. Its within easy driving distance of the major treatment Perth, giving veterans greater choice of and Joondalup Health Campus private hospitals centres. Bus and train services are nearby, as is the local Subiaco private hospital care. have received Tier 1 status. shopping area. Hollywood Private Hospital has been successful in According to Executive Director Kevin Cass-Ryall, People should contact the PATS Clerk at their local hospital to apply for securing an ongoing contract with DVA to provide the July 2006 changes mean greater choice for the cost of their travel and accommodation. For more information about inpatient services to eligible veterans and war veterans within the central Perth area. “However, accommodation for country cancer patients, call the AH Crawford Lodge widows. Hollywood takes great pride in its at Hollywood we believe that we are best placed in Nedlands on 08 9489 7333 or the Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20 (for reputation as “The Veterans’ Hospital”. You can to meet the complex care needs of veterans, with the cost of a local call from anywhere in WA). The AH Crawford Lodge expect to continue to receive a high level of expert the provision of a comprehensive, compassionate in Nedlands was named for Algie and Doreen Crawford whose substantial and personal care, with priority access to and personalised service,” Mr Cass-Ryall said. bequest allowed the Cancer Council to build the Lodge and provide other Hollywood. important services to help cancer patients and their families. Hollywood will always be here for the Veteran Veterans have been able to access Tier 1 hospitals community”. Advertorial. 16 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 Notices

Defence Medals ASIST workshops in Albany and Unfortunately due to licensing laws please give it your serious Our meetings which are followed Bunbury in October (dates to be no refreshments can be brought to consideration, and make it a day to by a cuppa and fellowship, are held At long last common sense has confirmed) and anyone from the the function. The event will be remember. on the third Thursday of each prevailed and all ex-WRAN, area who is interested is asked to having a live band to provide month at 1 pm in the Gallipoli WRAAC and WRAAF will be register their interest now. entertainment and it will commence ••••••• Room at ANZAC House. eligible for the Australian Defence Partners of Veterans Association of at 12:30 pm. WRAAF Anniversary Our September meeting will be a Medal under government policy Australia - WA Branch Inc. PO Box To enable the organisers to know Social Afternoon with a Scarf released 30 March 2006. This To celebrate the 56th Anniversary 5619 St Georges Tce Perth. WA 6001 what numbers to cater for and to of the formation of the Women’s Parade and Sale Table to raise policy changes eligibility from six Room 32 Bon Marche Arcade 80 ensure that the Viet-Nam Veterans Royal Australian Air Force 1951-77, funds. We support Poppy Day years enlistment to: “ADF Barrack St Perth WA 6000 and partners receive the benefit of Perth WRAAF Branch will be Lunch for the Chapel at RSL Care in Members who completed their the funding, you are requested to Menora. Ph/Fax (08) 9225 6990 hosting a National Reunion from initial enlistment or four years provide the names and addresses of 28th September to 1st October All Ex-Servicewomen are welcome service, whichever is the lesser.” those wishing to attend so we can 2007. We are looking for all the to join us. Contact Joan Dawson ••••••• forward tickets to you. It would be This extension is in addition to the “Girls” who enlisted in the WRAAF (9384 6712) or Cecile Hinton (9387 Younger Veterans appreciated if sub-branches could between 1951-1977 to invite them 2237) policy release of October 2004. facilitate the collection of names “A Younger Veterans Forum to join us. RAAF ladies are also I would like to thank all ex- and forward these to ANZAC House Cecile Hinton – Secretary meeting convened by the RSL will invited. For further information servicemen and women, service where tickets will be arranged to be be held on Sunday 27th of August contact Lyn Morrison, ph: 08 9351 organisations and print media for forwarded to the individuals ••••••• 2006 commencing at 2PM. 8659 their support over the last two years concerned. War Widows’ Guild This forum will be held at the in helping me to rectify this You are invited to bring other ••••••• Special Air Service Regiment The War Widows’ Guild of Australia anomaly which existed in the members of the family other than Association House Campbell Ex-Servicewomen WA Inc will celebrate its 60th original government policy. your partner to this event but the Barracks Swanbourne. All younger Anniversary on 29th November Please accept this as my personal cost of the meal which is valued at The Returned Ex-Servicewomen’s veterans are welcome to attend 2006. thanks, $20 will need to be met by the Sub-Branch was founded in and is along with wives and partners and During the week commencing veteran. Payment of this money a happy group of ladies from all Shirley McLaren children. Monday 27th November the Guild should accompany the list of services. We take part in various President Ex-Servicewomen’s will be holding different celebratory There is a secure area for children names. RSL activities and have bus tours Medal Group, NSW to play whilst the meeting is in which are reasonably priced. Our functions including a church The function at the Royal Perth progress. Newsletter “Light Diet” keeps service, an official luncheon, river ••••••• Yacht Club is the primary members in touch and those who cruise and sightseeing in and Celebrate our soldiers If there are any particular items for celebratory event for the 40th are not so well receive cards, around Perth for our country discussion would you please Anniversary being held in Perth, so phone calls and Christmas visits. members. Phone: 9371 7470. You now have the opportunity to submit these to ANZAC House prior own a limited edition print by the to the meeting”. renowned Artist Ralph Tiedemann and poet “Bernice”. ••••••• Letters to the Editor This spectacular display of Reunion contemporary graphic art pays R.A.N. Aircraft Handlers Reunion homage to the ANZAC Heroes to Rockingham W.A. 2nd-3rd-4th I read with interest the story in he was the one to fly us to Kuala glider pilot. For the next half hour I which we owe the freedom we all March 2007. The above reunion of “The Listening Post” June-July Lumpur. He confirmed he was had a pleasant conversation with enjoy today. Combined with the ex-and serving Aircraft 2006 about the article “Former indeed the captain of our flight and both. All this happened before the poetry “Southern Soldiers”, this Handlers,Aircrew and Maintainers Pilot Speaks Out”. so I informed him (jokingly) that in terrorists attacked the World Trade piece will command reverence will be held at the City of case of total engine failure he should Centre in New York. Security now wherever it is viewed. It may be of interest to readers of Rockingham RSL Club. call me as I was an experienced prevents anyone entering the “The Listening Post” about an This commemorative masterpiece glider pilot. cockpit, but my half hour with the Contacts: Bob (Tubby) Gilmour occasion aboard an aircraft on a crew on the flight deck was a most can be purchased online at The captain wanted to know my seat 08-95924216. flight from Perth to Kuala Lumpur a memorable and appreciated www.copthat.com. For $185.00 inc. number so I told him seat No. F22. Ian (Ibby) Brook 08-95912769. few years ago, not long before the occasion. After returning to my seat GST, plus postage and handling. Would you believe? Half way 11th September 2001 of the I was able to tell my wife that I had (allow up to 21 days delivery) [email protected] through our flight a lady from the air destruction of the World Trade not taken over control of the aircraft Approximate Frame Size 580 mm crew came to inform me the captain ••••••• Centre in New York. and that everything was OK up front. by 47 mm wanted me to come to the flight What is happening My wife and I were about to board Part of the proceeds proudly going deck. I told my wife there seemed to Hank R. de Jongh to RSL Welfare funds to State of War Veterans’ Extremely Disabled an aircraft at Perth when the crew of some trouble but not to worry and purchase. Society of WA Inc an aircraft came along on their way accompanied by the air-hostess I was Cpl Royal Netherlands Marines to board the aircraft. Not sure if they taken to the cockpit where the RSL Sub-Branch Bellevue, ••••••• (EDA Society of WA Inc) were the crew of our flight I captain introduced me to his first formerly RSL Sub-Branch Bedford- Proposal ANZAC House 3rd & 4th October approached the captain and asked if officer who also happened to be a Morley 2006 BCOF Association SA and Vic branches are proposing a People are coming from all over Last year was my first time attending the Dawn Remember Australia combined reunion in Loxton, SA in Service. I am 46 years old and so have no direct the eternal flame held March 20-22 2007. SA contact Annual conference experience of the war, however, I was between the moon and the sun exceptionally moved particularly by the silence – the bugle horn caught, details are Mr Max Burgess, 2 Opening the conference will be the as people remembered. between the ocean and the hills Valerie Ave, Highbury SA 5089. Ph: Hon Bruce Billson, MP Federal the freedom given 08 8263 2803, Mob: 0419 846 599. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs The moon was descending into the ocean and the sun between the wind and waves was rising over the hills, the sound of the bugle still Open invitation to anyone and Remember this ••••••• resonating in my mind. I am not given to writing poetry; everyone who wishes to attend the and I will – remember you. occasionally a doorway is opened to that part of my Farewell conference as observers mind. I wrote this poem within half an hour of arriving After the Dawn Service 25th April 2005 Farewell to Dr. Michael Daly Guest Speakers: Derek Philips home and I would like to share it with you. Julia Wright, Duncraig Thursday 21st December 2006 President of the Partners of 11.00 am onwards. Veterans’ Organisation for the Prevention of Suicide Mr Bodey’s recent letter men and women. These items are what I would call a quite generous Viet-Nam Veterans’ Memorial in the Contact: Aurelie Bergin Secretary regarding the RSL preserving then passed on to lobby the allowance. A married T&PI together Western Power Parkland Kings the status quo and championing Government. Some are adopted with his wife would receive Park. 08 94022043 or fax 9402 4036 conservatism. I would say keep some not. $1,672.30 per fortnight tax free, plus Bring your own everything – no e-mail [email protected] free medical, transport, no GST on up the good work. Do you want Now to the plight of disabled ex- glass please them to be fire breathing vehicles and allowed to work 8 ••••••• service men and women if they hours per week. Michael has requested that this be a radicals? comply with an extensive list called low key farewell. Please respect his 40th Anniversary of the At a recent RSL State Congress Statement of Principles DVA will I say good luck to them but don’t wishes as it was hard enough to get Battle of Long-Tan give them a disability pension. knock the RSL and the DVA. which I attended most of the him to agree to this. On the 20th of August following the motions which were passed were to If severely disabled (i.e. Total and K Costello Viet-Nam Veterans’ Association Rob Hepburn do with the welfare of ex-service Permanently Incapacitated) they get Bullcreek 0408 096 971 memorial service at the Viet-Nam Memorial in Kings Park, it is ••••••• proposed for the gathering to Enclosed is a tribute I have Caroline deceased. On his retirement from Council adjourn to the Royal Perth Yacht written to a good mate, an duties, Jim travelled widely Suicide Awareness Jim saw active combat in the Middle Club. Osborne Park RSL Sub-Branch East and Papua New Guinea along throughout the Sate and to most There are ASIST (Suicide member, Mr Arthur James Smith This event at the Yacht Club is part the Kakoda Track with the 2/6th parts of Australia. Awareness) workshops planned for of the overall commemorative “Big Jim”. Battalion 1939-1945. Jim not only I was not long home after a hospital the following: celebrations, acknowledging the “Vale Jim Smith – True Blue was a mate of mine but he had mates operation when a bloke came to see 17 & 18 August Kalgoorlie 40th Anniversary of the Long-Tan all over the State and throughout me. “Good day”, he said “I’m a mate 19-20 August Morley Battle in Viet-Nam. Accordingly, Arthur James Smith was True Blue. Australia. Jim worked for many 4-5 September Lifeline Perth part funding for this event is being of Jim Smith” “Are you mate?” I We lost him on May 5 after a long years for the City of Perth. He was (stairs - no elevator) met through the Department of replied “So am I.” battle with sickness. well respected and as the 13-14 September Perth Veterans Affairs and all Viet-Nam Accountant, he was also the I thank Kerry I. and Ross M. for some Veterans with partners are welcome Anyone who wishes to attend Big Jim was born 26th July 1921 in Paymaster and at various times on of the information I’ve used and we to attend. This funding will allow should contact Sam on 0421 573 Geraldton and grew up in Maylands. payday would arrive at job sites join with many others in sending our for a meal to be provided to each 700 or [email protected] for a He and Mary were married in 1949 throughout the city to pay eligible veteran and partner. condolences to Mary, Adrian and registration form. and they had eight children: Francis, employees, in cash, for many years, family.” Refreshments can be purchased at Adrian, Anne Marie, Margaret, in the Council vehicle that became Lifeline are also planning to have bar prices from the Yacht Club. Louise, and Peter, Vincent and known as the “Pay-wagon”. Mr Harry T Smith THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 17 Puzzles Recipes Australian Winter Soup Dish The Listening Post Crossword Fresh vegetable and 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 chicken soup. 13 14 15 16 17 18 Ingredients: 19 20 21 22 1 fresh pack of soup vegetables from your supermarket 23 24 25 26 27 28 4 litres of water 300 grams of cut up chicken breast 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 30 grams of flavoured noodles 20 grams of Massel chicken stock powder. 36 37 38 39 40 Method: 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 Add water to the pot and place over heat, chop chicken breasts and add to pot, 52 53 54 55 cut up vegetables and add to pot, when soup is about twenty minutes from cooking add noodles and chicken stock. 56 57 58 59 60 61

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64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 Presentation 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 to RSL 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98

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Across 96 American Kennel Club (abbr.) 37 Appearance 1 Tree gum 99 Garden tool 40 Of the sense of smell 4 Certified public accountant 100 Hormone 41 Football assoc. 7 Farm credit administration (abbr.) 101 A type of British machine gun the 42 Anger 10 Digital audio tape ANZAC’S used during the Second 43 Zig's partner 13 On May 21st an RAF Maryland World War. 44 Major John Glubb’s Arab Legion bomber reported groups of small 103 Expression of surprise cnsisted of 4000 men. It advanced craft escorted by Italian destroyers 105 Relating to the ear across the desert on June the 21st moving towards Crete from the 107 AUSTRALIAN IMPERIAL FORCE along the axis of the oil pipeline to island of ….. 109 Used to attract attention Tripoli on the Syrian coast, until 15 Is 110 The Australian and New Zealand blocked by a Vicky French Fort at 16 European sea eagle Army Corps. ……. The fort was held by 187 17 Wheel coverings 112 Ridiculing remark men, of the Foreign Legion, half 19 Loafer 113 W.C. being German and the other half 20 NO2 114 Spots Russians under French command. 21 Football conference 115 Lieutenant Commander FG ….. 45 American College of Physicians 22 Private Snowy ….. of the 53rd Royal Navy had lived in Heraklion (abbr.) Battery opened up on the famous Crete before the outbreak of the 46 River (Spanish) Red Baron along with Robert Buie. Second World War. He was landed 47 Football offensive goal 23 Deer in Crete by submarine to organise 49 Positive vote 24 June 17th Vicky French aircraft the the rescue of Australians that 50 North by west bombed and severely damaged the had slipped away from being 51 Hurricane center British destroyers ISIS and …. Near captured after the fall of Crete. 58 Back to school mo. Crete. 116 Little bit 60 Billion years 26 Order 117 Compass point 64 United States of America 28 Cut grass 118 Still 65 Megahertz 29 North northeast 119 Chinese cooking pan 66 Cooking vessel 31 In charge of salaries Down 68 Cake or Bread ___ 35 Atmosphere 1 Brigadier Laverack briefed his 69 Tangle 36 Thief’s hideout senior subordinates in concise and 70 Ocean gem 38 Alternative (abbr.) direct terms, that he had three 71 Permit 39 Pack objectives that he wished to 72 Caesar's three 41 The Australian Army, RAAF and accomplice. The first was a line 73 COLONIAL NAVAL DEFENCE the RAN fought the Vicky French in formed by road linking Merdjayoun 74 Yea Lebanon, the RAN supplied the to ….. on the coast. The second 76 Representatives cruiser HMAS Perth and the was a line joining Rasheiya, 80 Pater destroyer ….. Machrhara, Tezzine and ….. The 83 Wipe 44 Captain Punchy ……. And diggers third phase would take the 86 AUSTRALIA FLYING CORPS from the 2/3rd Battalion blocked Australian 21st Brigade into Beirut. 88 "To the right!" the main road to Damascus-Beirut 2 Ethan that led the Green Mountain 89 Hop on and captured many Vicky French Boys The ANZACS had to defend this pass soldiers at bayonet point and 3 Poet Edgar Allen ….. against the Germans, it Tommy guns. 4 The Capital of Crete connects Florina Valley and the 48 LIEUTENANT COLONEL RAY 5 Fill-in Edessa Pass. 52 __ of mind (state) 6 SUBMARINE 92 Dickens' "__ of Two Cities" (2 wds.) 53 American Cancer Society (abbr.) 7 Not many 93 When Crete fell to the Germans, 54 Central Intelligence Agency 8 Make Lieutenant Colonel Chilton of the 55 Low flight for a show 9 The 3rd Australian Division fought 2/2nd Australian Division and 56 Lower limb near the French villages of Major PH Cullen split up their 57 LIEUTENANT COLONEL EM Dernacourt and Albert. What is the group of diggers as it was too large. 59 Divided nation name of the river that flows through So they could evade the Germans. 61 Female sheep Albert. He distributed Greek money to his 62 Sticky stuff 10 Division (abbr.) officers and this helped them evade 63 MD 11 REAR ADMRIL MASAFUMI capture by being Ferried by Greek 64 Ref 12 Singing voice Fisherment to Skaithos and the 67 Nile's home 13 Center others travelled on to ….. in Agean 70 Sow 14 __ Lanka Luggers and others continuing to 72 Slippery frigid 17 A major offensive by the Viet-Cong, Heraklion. Mr Barry Peterson and Mr Paul Hudson from Ministry of Justice presenting the 75 Trimmed off the wool in 1968 that made it necessary for 94 Home piece to the State President of the RSL, Mr Bill Gaynor 77 Galled the Australians based in Nui-Dat to 95 Rendezvous 78 Electroencephalograph (abbr.) rescue the CIA from Baria in Phuc- 97 Wind instrument 79 State as an opinion Tuy Province in South Viet-Nam. 98 Teacher's writing tool On Friday 14 July 2006 the State inmate of the Casuarina Prison, self care 81 Ancient Indian 18 Compass point 99 Owns Branch of the RSL received a unit. 100 Brew presentation of a replica 25lb 82 Vivify 25 Licensed practical nurse The State President, Mr Bill Gaynor, 84 Loots 27 Extremity 102 Sleep Artillery piece made from match thanked Mr Peterson and Mr Hudson 85 Legume 30 Swiss-like cheese 104 Expert sticks. 87 Neither's partner 32 Swamp 106 Total for the presentation and requested our 88 Con 33 Loose gown worn at mass 108 Contender Mr Barry Peterson and Mr Paul Hudson gratitude be passed to the inmate, items 89 MOBILE VETERINARY SECTION 34 Pinned 109 Straw both employed by the Ministry of such as this allow for us to remember 91 Light switch covering (2 wds.) 35 Cain killed him 111 This time Justice presented the piece made by an our past military heritage. 18 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 RSL Appoints ANZAC C From the CHRISTMAS LUB New ANZAC

A glass of house red I or white N JULY Club Bunker OR Local tap beer Roast beef served with seasonal vegetables, Manager Yorkshire pudding, and Janís homemade gravy Julie Wilson has joined RSL as Roast pork served with seasonal vegetables, with Denis Connelly OR Club Manager responsible for apple sauce, and Janís homemade gravy Restaurant and Bar operations. Julie replaces Sarah Scott, who has Traditional Christmas pudding made application to join the served with brandy custard Police Service. Julie comes to the Christmas in July at ANZAC Club from Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre Pavlova fresh fruitOR and cream where she ran a 5 star restaurant the ANZAC and bar facility. Julie has a Diploma in Tourism and $30.00 speaks fluent Japanese as a part of PER her studies. She also holds Please contact the ANZAC Club HEAD o Club or see the ANZAC Club st f qualifications from Queensland, United Kingdom and Western Australia that allow here to act as a Once again the staff and facilities Licence holder for liquor outlets. provided an excellent venue for the annual Christmas in July Julie enjoys music, swimming, dining functions at the ANZAC Club. out and wine tasting. Members and their guests enjoyed an Southern River is where Julie lives excellent meal and festivities from with her eight pedigree cats and her The City of Perth Sub-Branch, on the son Sam, when he is home, who is 5th July, Returned Sisters on the 6th also in the hospitality industry, July, Catalina Club on the 13th July, currently working in England as a and the 2/28th Battalion on the 23rd chef for Cardin Fashion House. Sam July. represented Australia in the Culinary Olympics in 2004. The State Secretary, Mr Shane Seers said “that it is very pleasing to see Julie hopes to continue to promote members and guests are using the the ANZAC Club to its full potential. refurbished facilities of ANZAC Julie can be contact on (08) 9287 3799 House to a greater extent for social or e-mail [email protected]. activities.” Denis Connoly. Poetry General

A Shaggy Ridge Veteran There are ASIST (Suicide Awareness) workshops Farewell to Dr. Michael Daly Thursday 21st planned for the following: December 2006 11.00 am onwards. I saw a kid marchin’ with medals on his chest. • 17 & 18 August Kalgoorlie Viet-Nam Veterans’ Memorial in the Western Power He marched alongside Diggers, marching six abreast! Parkland Kings Park. • 19-20 August Morley He knew that is was ANZAC Day- he walked along with pride Bring your own everything – no glass please • 4-5 September Lifeline Perth (stairs - no He did his best to keep in step with the Diggers by his side Michael has requested that this be a low key farewell. elevator) Please respect his wishes as it was hard enough to get And when the march was over the kid was rather tired. • 13-14 September Perth him to agree to this. A Digger said “whose medals son?” to which the kid replied: Rob Hepburn 0408 096 971 Anyone who wishes to attend should contact Sam on ”They belong to Daddy but he did not come back 0421 573 700 or [email protected] for a registration War Widows’ Guild He died up in New Guinea on a lonely jungle track.” form. The War Widows’ Guild of Australia WA Inc will celebrate its 60th Anniversary on 29th November 2006. The kid looked rather sad just then and a tear came to his eye. Lifeline are also planning to have ASIST workshops in Albany and Bunbury in October (dates to be confirmed) During the week commencing Monday 27th November The Digger said “don’t cry my son and I will tell you why, and anyone from the area who is interested is asked to the Guild will be holding different celebratory functions Your Daddy marched with us today – all the blooming way register their interest now. including a church service, an official luncheon, river cruise and sightseeing in and around Perth for our We Diggers know that he was there – its like that on ANZAC Day.” Partners of Veterans Association of Australia - WA country members. Branch Inc. PO Box 5619 St Georges Tce Perth. WA 6001 The kid looked rather puzzled, and didn’t understand Phone: 9371 7470 Room 32 Bon Marche Arcade 80 Barrack St Perth WA But the Digger went on talkin’ and started to wave his hands, 6000 “for the great land we live in, there’s a price we have to pay. Ph/Fax (08) 9225 6990 For we love fun and merriment in this country where we live. The price was that some Soldier his precious life must five. For you to go to school my Lad and worship God at will. Can you help Someone had to pay the price so the Diggers paid the bill There’s some folks around today my Lad who think its all for free Assistance Required - 3165092 Spr Robert Napier Changi in 1942 who might remember John Clare, or any RAE 17 Const Sqn SVN Even though there’s other countries close at hand on bended knew. member of the 2/4 Machine Gun Battalion that might Can anyone assist? ALL replies to: remember this man? Can anyone help identify the ship he They walk around with banners like kids with little toys travelled from Darwin to Singapore on? Jim Saddington, While the enemy just waits around clapping his hands with joy I would appreciate your advice as to how we might go Email [email protected] They say it’s not correct these days to stand up to the foe Phone: (03) 5174 3239 Mobile: 0417 392 938. about finding former comrades of Mr Clare. But the old time religions knew where they had to go ••••••• Kind regards They took up the Bible with them and the Padres led the way Juliet Wills Hi, I am a researcher for ABC programme Can We That’s the reason now my son – the Church is here to stay Help. The programme aims to help viewers with Researcher ABC TV - Can We Help? Circling Shark their personal quests. Productions Ph: (08) 9220 2656 Fax: (08) 9220 2698 The Romans thought they couldn’t fail, but Oh how great they fall Email: [email protected] It can happen to all people lad! However great or small We have been approached by the relative of a lance Corporal John Mostyn Clare who enlisted in Claremont, ••••••• Your Daddy died for us my son- for all things good and true WA on 30 July 1940 and had the service number WX6976 To celebrate the 56th Anniversary of the formation I wonder if you can understand the things I’ve said to you” and was placed in the 2/4 Machine Gun Battalion. He of the Women’s Royal Australian Air Force 1951-77, embarked on an un-known ship in Darwin on 30 Darwin Perth WRAAF Branch will be hosting a National The kid looked up at the Digger – just for a little while on 30th December 1941 and disembarked in Singapore on Reunion from 28th September to 1st October 2007. And with a changed expression, said, with a lovely smile 24 January 1942. He was taken Prisoner of War in Malaya We are looking for all the “Girls” who enlisted in the “I know my Dad marched here today – this, our ANZAC Day on 16 February 1942. He died of illness in the POW WRAAF between 1951-1977 to invite them to join us. camp, Changi on 8 August 1943. He is buried in Kanburi RAAF ladies are also invited. For further information I know he did – I knew he did all the blooming way” of Kauchanaburi Allied War Cemetery Thailand. contact The viewer is eager to speak to anyone who served with Lyn Morrison, By D.Hunter VX 105119 OF 2/12 BN. John. Do you know of any living person who was at Phone: 08 9351 8659 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 19 Women’s Auxiliary 79th Annual Conference

The RSL Women’s Auxiliary held have given the RSL over many years, the ex-servicemen and women. their 79th annual conference at it is a great partnership” Mr Gaynor Once again we thank Mrs Peg Jack ANZAC House on the 23rd May said. who also assists with the visiting 2006. duties”. Mrs Daxon then spoke of “The Women’s Auxiliary has given Christmas activities, “at Christmas the Mrs Christine Blackman (President) support to veterans, widows, and ladies visited the RSL Care at Menora opened the conference by dependants with visiting and with and delivered 100 parcels of welcoming members and invited donations to the War Veterans Christmas Cheer and enjoyed a lively guests to the 79th conference. Homes (WVH) and RSL (WA) over morning with the residents at many years” Mr Gaynor said. Mrs Blackman then spoke of the Hollywood Private Hospital. Auxiliaries activities for the last year Mr Gaynor also spoke of “challenges Christmas cards and scratchy tickets and how difficult this had been, that confront Women’s Auxiliary were given to the ex-servicemen and “everyone is aware all year in how with a declining membership, women – all gratefully received. The hard all our Auxiliaries worked to alliances with partners of younger knitting and crochet ladies never raise funds through their fun and veterans and perhaps an affiliate seem to get tired of making rugs, friendship days, that we on the State membership which could assist with bed socks, beanies, and scarves Committee can continue to visit ex- eroding your base for potential which are all very welcomed by the service members in nursing homes membership”. Mr Gaynor then hospitals and nursing homes and and hospitals. Mrs Blackman declared the conference open and give cheer and warmth to the continues this year unfortunately we wished all present a constructive and residents” Mrs Daxon concluded, had some more of our Auxiliaries meaningful conference. “thank you all ladies once again for closed – so we of the State your wonderful efforts” Committee would like to thank each The Secretary, Mrs Daxon then Mrs Blackman then asked Mr Gaynor and every one of you for your addressed the forum and delivered to lead the presenters in presentation support through all the years, well her annual report on the Women’s Mr Shane Seers OAM JP (State Secretary) presented with cheques of $1000.00 of awards to recipients for 2005-06. done ladies, keep up the good Auxiliary and how she “has enjoyed to RSL WA and a cheque of $1000.00 for War Veterans Homes (W.V.H) work.” the hospitality and friendship of Auxiliary ladies at their birthdays and Cup Competition Bullsbrook 35 pts Mr Seers thanked the Women’s Mrs Blackman then asked the State friendship days” Mrs Daxon Metropolitan Cup, Auxiliary “for their support over President, Mr W Gaynor OAM RFD continued “with such a small 2nd Certificate, many years and that these cheques to address and open the conference. committee of ladies this year it has Presented by Mr Gaynor ,Armadale Presented by Mrs S Bennetts, 54 Pts are greatly appreciated and would Mr Gaynor “thanked President been difficult to cover the number of Northam 29 pts assist the RSL and RSL Care, in Blackman and spoke of how RSL hospital and nursing homes but the Executive Shield, ongoing programmes and (WA) appreciated the support and ladies have once again done an Presented by Mrs A Cayley,Bellevue 3rd Certificate, endeavours for the RSL affiliation that the Women’s Auxiliary excellent job with monthly visits to 52 Pts by Mrs G Rolfe, , City of Mandurah membership”. 28 pts Tray, Mrs Blackman then declared the Presented by Mrs G Rolfe, Belmont Mrs Blackman presented Mr Shane official opening of the conference 50 Pts Seers OAM JP (State Secretary) with closed and asked all present to join her and the committee for morning Encouragement Certificates – cheques of $1000.00 to RSL WA and tea. Metropolitan a cheque of $1000.00 for War Veterans’ Homes (WVH) Denis Connelly 1st Certificate, Presented by Mrs H Donald, City of Perth 41 Pts 2nd Certificate, Presented by Mrs J Whiting, Subiaco 30 Pts Country Cup, Presented by Mr A Edgar, Murray Districts 55 pts Geraldton Shield, Presented by Mrs L Jackson, Geraldton 51 pts Tray, Presented by Mrs J Gaynor, Waroona–Hamel 36 pts Encouragement Certificates – Country 1st Certificate, State President, Mr W Gaynor OAM RFD opening the conference. Presented by Mrs V Fitzgerald, The Secretary, Mrs Daxon delivering her annual report. THE TOP TEN Crossword Solution – Aug/Sept 06 BEST SELLING CD’S Brought to you by Adrian at Abbott’s Music Centre. Shop 12 Stargate Shopping Centre Kelmscott. email: [email protected]

1. Charlie Landsborough Double CD - 6. Daniel O’Donnel – Australian Tour “What Colour The Wind” Pack 2006 2. Charlie Landsborough - With You I 7. Katherine Jenkins – Living A Dream mind/ Further Down The Road 8. Russell Watson – The Voice2 – 3. Charlie Landsborough - Songs From Ultimate Collection The Heart/ Live In Dublin 9. Song Book – Various Artists 4. Johnny Cash – Personal File 10. Andrea Bocelli – Amore 5. Dusty Springfield – Pop Diva These CD’s can be heard on Curtin Radio If you mention seeing the Top Ten CD’s in the Listening Post, Adrian will give you a discount on your purchase. 20 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 Participation on the Filling the Gap in increase in Kings Park run

Menora The Synergy Gallipoli Run was held in the picturesque Construction has begun on an Ken Hamilton said, “This is a really The 45 residents in the old cluster setting of Kings Park on Ageing In Place Facility on the exciting phase for the Alexander facility will be moved to the new Sunday 23rd April, RSL Care WA site on Alexander Drive site. site once completed, which will commencing at 9.00am. Drive in Menora which aims to leave a further 73 new places “With the recent completion of the Race patron and Changhi complement the September available to the public. survivor John Gilmour 2005 completion of the 96 Independent Living Units and now the construction of the new Close to bus routes and both local addressed the crowd in Independent Living Units and shopping centre’s and the city, attendance highlighting the Apartments. Ageing in Place facility, means the RSL has a very unique and modern residents can choose to be Anzac spirit and the Built in the late 1970’s, the old residence to offer those in the independent or make the most of importance of the run to him. facility was demolished to make community needing care or a the convenience of the local The Last Post was then played way for a $16 million, unique beautiful unit in which to live.” public transport system to meet and the race started in beautiful their individual needs. weather conditions. three storey establishment, which The Ageing in Place facility will will boast underground parking largely feature single ensuite Consideration for the area vacated More than 430 people and a beautiful view of landscaped rooms, but it will also have some by the cluster houses when those participated in the event which gardens. interconnecting rooms for couples residents move into the new was an increase of about 16% The construction phase for this wishing to enter care together. facility is underway at Board level. on the 2005 event. This was an encouraging result after a mammoth task is projected to take Care Manager for RSL Care WA, For any enquiries or further approximately 80 weeks to Vicki Fitzgerald said: “We have a restricted promotional information please contact Silvia campaign due to Synergy only complete with the first phase of number of couples on our waiting Hoskins the Resident Services Co- the in-ground site works already list requiring this type of becoming an official entity on Ordinator, RSL Care WA on 1st April. finished. accommodation”. 93700489. It will also include a dining room, The winners on the day Some technical difficulties had to were: be overcome in the first phase, as community area on each floor, lots the water table of the area is very of lovely quiet areas and beautiful Article by: Sally Hamilton. 8km (M) Hamish McElwee high, thus water had to be manicured gardens for residents to Photographs by: 26.32; (W) Tina Major 31.34; pumped out to lower the water enjoy. Derek Markham. 4km (M) Ben Green 14.03; (W) level before the concrete slab was Monique Hollick 16.08 poured. The largest corporate team was The basement slab and the ground won by Synergy and Penrhos floor will be poured to ensure that College was successful in the the water pressure is kept down schools category. Olympic and to guarantee that the building heptathlete Kylie Wheeler will will be held in place. This was present Penrhos with a framed technically a difficult problem for certificate at a school assembly. the engineers and took some time The Synergy Gallipoli Run to overcome. raises funds for the WA branch The 118 bed facility will cater for of the RSL to assist in the both low and high care residents ongoing welfare, aide and in a state of the art complex. support to the veteran community and spouses. Extensive plans were drawn up by Western Australian Athletic Loughton and Patterson Architects, Commission Chief Executive BGC Construction is the builder Wayne Loxley and a and the interior décor will be representative from Synergy completed by Defiddesign. presented a cheque to the RSL at their June Executive Project Manager for RSL Care WA, meeting. Finding the Perth – the Hard Way

There are many pieces of were in place and her A turret guns and with all the gear I was carrying military history on the walls of were trained almost to starboard. this task became more difficult. I ANZAC House, including a The B turret guns were hard to port was trapped for about three minutes section of a Gimbal Ring from and the X turret guns were and was just about to start getting rid HMAS Perth’s compass platform, starboard. It was pretty clear that of the Scuba when somehow I got sunk in the battle of the Sundar she was firing in all directions when loose. It was a near thing. Strait during 1942. she went down. “But by then we had all the relics on But how was it found? “The funny part was that she was the surface of the boat. My only pointing towards Djakarta – the regret is that I could not find the That story deserves retelling place she was trying to get away USS Houston.” because it marks another chapter in from.” Australian courage. Footnote: The Perth relics were With the Indonesian navy men on returned to Djakarta where they In 1967 a one-legged South the patrol boat and getting only stayed for several weeks in 1967 Australian diver named Dave basic instructions from a rope it was until the then Malaysian-Singapore Burchell decided he wanted to find inevitable that sooner or later Airlines, Perth TV Station, Channel the Perth, sunk by the Japanese account of his mission as told to me another wreck about two miles west something was bound to go wrong. 9, with the help of then Sales along with the USS Houston during in 1967 when he returned to of the first ship. Manager, Norm Manners, and the that epic battle in Indonesian waters Adelaide. Dave Burchell continued: “It was Sunday Times, got them to Perth. “I dived down and immediately in 1942. He approached the RAN on my 29th dive that I was trapped Most are now in the National War “Without the help of these two realised it was the Perth. She was for a position of the wreck, then at the 150 ft level. I was trying to Museum in Canberra, except for the lying on her port side in 180ft of with that limited knowledge and his fishermen, I doubt whether anyone photograph the bridge of the Perth Gimbal Ring in ANZAC House. own primitive diving gear he would have found the wreck of the water. She was in fairly good when a strong current pushed me travelled alone to Indonesia to try to Perth,” he said. condition. against the buoy line and a steel Dave Burchell lost his left leg as a child and honed his diving skills in get the help of the Indonesian Navy. “I made a total of 30 dives down to cable hooked onto the regulator of “We didn’t have any modern aids on the waters of the caves on the the Indonesian patrol boat like the Perth and recovered a my underwater gear strapped to my At 42, Dave Burchell was an back. Nullarbor Plain. experienced diver, but he lacked radar, sound detection units or even searchlight, three 4 inch empty shell the back-up support of an radio to help us find the Perth. cases, three portholes – two with “It certainly hit me. I felt as if a Peter Finn. experienced team on the surface When we could not find the ship at the glass intact, the binnacle, or giant hand had grabbed me around when he dived. He managed to the position the RAN gave us, I compass cover from the bridge, two the back of the neck. I had been enlist the aid of a small Indonesian asked several Javanese fishermen gyro compass repeaters – one with down about 18 minutes, and had a glove that still worked, three patrol boat with its crew, but about the wreck. about 10 minutes of air supply left. voice-pipes off the bridge, various communication was hampered I was handicapped by all the gear I “Two fishermen remembered the gauges and small shell cases. because they did not speak much sea battle 25 years before and was carrying – a full wet suit, English and he did not speak decompression meter, depth gauge, recalled seeing two ships going “Before I dived I knew that what I Indonesian. Still, that proved to be gloves, hacksaw, snorkel, weight down about four miles off the Java really wanted was the Perth’s bell. I one of the lesser difficulties. belt, a rope over my left arm, a coast. I told them to try and locate knew the bell was on the Perth’s port side and that was the side she hammer, an underwater camera and The RAN had given Dave Burchell a the ship for me. They went out in was lying on. I made three dives on a bag of flashbulbs floating above position of the Perth which was their krau and hooked onto a that side hoping that the bell may my head. eventually proved to be five miles wreck. I dived down and found it have fallen off, but I was away from the actual position of the was a Japanese troopship of about “I decided that I had to start thinking unsuccessful. wreck. In fact, the wreck was 5,000 tons. I told them this wasn’t about getting my Scuba off to free found by two Javanese fishermen. the wreck I was looking for so they “I found the ship’s catapult, but not myself. This was normally quite The following is Dave Burchell’s went out again and hooked onto the aircraft. The Perth’s 6 inch guns simple, but after making 29 dives THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 21 Visit Historic Malacca

I’ve been to Malaysia a couple astounded and said there was you start bargaining, at less than fifty of times now, and it never nothing to see in Malacca. It percent of their first price and then ceases to amaze me that, you transpired that he was born in work up. You should be able to can see and experience Malacca into a farming community. purchase most products for about something different on each fifty percent of the original asking visit. I informed Peter (my doctor) that, on price. my return, I would inform him of The Sze Ya Temple in Kuala Lumpur how I found Malacca as a tourist Jonkers Street is certainly worth is one of the oldest Buddhist temples destination. My visit confirmed that visiting on Friday and Saturday in Malaysia. The temple was built in his recollections of the past are very nights, as the night Flea market is 1882, by Kapitan Cina Yap Ah Loy, in different from the reality of today worth seeing. It is similar to the one memory of Kong Seng, a tin mine in Kuala Lumpur, but only a fraction tycoon who was murdered. It is The Malacca State Government’s of the size as its counter part in constructed of brick and tiles and slogan, devised to promote tourism Kuala Lumpur. You can purchase the comprises a main hall and two lesser in the area is, “Visit Historic Malacca same sort of articles in Jonkers Street side halls. Means Visit Malaysia”. I consider it to as in China Town in Kuala Lumpur. be a catchy slogan. The temple is not easy to find. It is There are lots of places of interest in quite small and is hidden in amongst On arrival in the Historical Town of Malacca. The old Portuguese Fort (A other high-rise buildings, in Kuala Malacca my initial perception was Fomosa) was built in 1511, when the Lumpur and the front courtyard is one of peace and tranquility. I was Dutch invaded Malacca in 1641 they used as a car parking area. overwhelmed by the quietness and destroyed quite a lot of the forts relaxed pace of the town. It was structure. As you enter the temple grounds a unlike the busy hub of other major sense of tranquility is apparent. The towns, in the other states within The fort had a moat surrounding it senses are stimulated by the smell of Malaysia. and the moat contained crocodiles, burning incense and the auditory just to add a further deterrent, to sounds, of the Buddhist religion, Malacca, is one of the oldest states would be attackers. being emitted from within the within Malaysia, being settled in temple. 1403, by an exiled Hindu prince, There are many other great sites to then continue with praying, as we others that I have visited and is from the Kingdom of Sri Vijaya, in see and visit while in Historic Inside the temple building are take photos and write brief notes extremely ornate, particularly for Sumatra. It is truly unique, with its Malacca. Chinese worshippers, praying and about the temple. such a small temple. Even though it Portuguese heritage reflected offering incense to their Gods and is small, interestingly, it appears throughout the architecture of the Len Copley. During my visits to Malaysia I have uncluttered and spacious. This ancestors. As we enter the building discovered that each Chinese temple old, historic town ship. The their prayers are briefly interrupted temple, as is apparent with many influence of the Dutch and English is unique. The Sze Ya Temple, other Chinese temples, seems to by our arrival. They glance at us, and which is quite small, compared with cultures, is also very apparent, within invite people in, by way of its open Malacca’s buildings. design. The old world charm that is in Unlike some Chinese temples, the abundance within the town lends Sze Ya Temple did not appear to itself to a carefree type of holiday. contain ancestral ashes, which hold The local people are exceptionally particular significance for the friendly and transmit a gentle, laid Chinese Buddhists. back approach to life. During my visit to Malaysia I visited I strolled through the old town site the Historic Town of Malacca it is of Malacca, taking in the sights, about 128 kilometres from Kuala smells and sounds of my Lumpur. Prior to embarking on the surroundings. The traders are not trip I informed my Doctor, that I was pushy and will accept the time- going to visit Malacca, he appeared honoured tradition of bargaining. If Australian servicemen and women help evacuees

Members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) deployed to Beirut and Cyprus from Sydney International Airport today. The 65 members of the ADF are being deployed to support the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in the evacuation of Australian nations from Lebanon. The ADF group includes specialist staff to conduct liaison and evacuee processing support. 22 THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 Secretary’s New Members Notes The State President and members of the State Executive extend a welcome to new members, re- Members Benefit enlistments and transferees to the League in WA. 2006 – 2007 Their names are listed by sub-branch. I am pleased to report that we are negotiating with two Western Albany City of Perth Nedlands Australians businesses to provide “value added” benefits to RSL SHILCOCK Paul RAAF BOASE Paul RAN DAVIS Donald ARMY Members in WA. TYRES George ARMY PLAYFORD Irene RAAF The first offer we are working on is free membership to every service REARDON David ARMY Newman member of the RSL in WA to the Westclub scheme, this scheme provides Armadale ROBERTSON Neville ARMY MELHUISH Gareth RAN members with discount vouchers and special offers on the production ATWELL Gregory ARMY on the new membership card to be introduced in 2006 for year 2007 BELL Thomas ARMY City of Rockingham Nollamara membership. BYRNE Allen RAN BARTON John ARMY CARR Christopher ARMY FERMANER Russell ARMY Membership fees will not increase for Service members to make use of BATTERHAM John ARMY HARROULD Edwin RAAF this excellent members’ benefit. GRAY James RAAF BOMFORD Graham RAN O'DONNELL George ARMY HALL Richard RAN FOGARTY Kerry RAN ORMROD Anthony ARMY There will be regular updates on the progress of this initiative. It is HENDERSON Keith ARMY FRYER Ian RAN SYMES Jonathan ARMY subject to sufficient support to the value of $50,000 being raised. The MALKOWSKI Tomasz ARMY HARVEY Cameron ARMY second initiative is with a local named brand the Rick Hart stores in the MASSON Stephen ARMY RANDALL Paul RAAF North Beach greater metropolitan area. MCCARTHY John ARMY SULLIVAN Ronald RAN CUREDALE Jason ARMY The proposal in brief is: MCKEE Christopher ARMY WARD Phillip RAAF MAY Pamela ARMY No cost to you or your family members PAUL Volker ARMY PROUT Wayne ARMY Collie-Cardiff Northam Warehouse direct prices LARSEN James RAF VETTE Frances RAAF Free storage (conditions apply) Ballajura VETTE Stephanus RAAF Specialist advice BENDER Jack ARMY Darling Range BLOWERS Mark ARMY BARNETT William ARMY Northampton Working models on display COBB Peter RAN DALGLEISH William ARMY MACKAY James ARMY Savings, savings and more savings KELLOW Maurice ARMY Belmont MCLEAN Robert ARMY Ocean Reef HAWKINS Kenneth RAAF TIERNEY Jarrad RAN HILL Michael RAAF What Rick Hart is offering: JONES Ian ARMY WALPOLE Nic ARMY For all RSL (WA) members including all administrative staff and RSL (WA) JONES Mathew ARMY WOODHOUSE Ralph ARMY Peaceful Bay members’ immediate families, as well as any other categories that RSL JONES Raelene ARMY BRENNAN Desmond ARMY (WA) and Rick Hart may mutually agree to include, we offer exclusive JONES Robert ARMY Dongara GUTHRIE David ARMY special discount pricing everyday, which amounts to very substantial MOSEDALE Edward ARMY SQUIRES Garth ARMY dollar savings across the whole range of products that we stock, with Pemberton the exception of a few products that some manufacturers supply on “no Bicton-Palmyra Eastern Hills COOPER Jacqueline RAN discount” agency arrangements only. BUCHANAN Colin RAN CLARKE Alan ARMY ROSENGRANT Robert USN RSL (WA) pricing is based on our product costs, and not any vague or D'ORAZIO James ARMY WILLIAMS-LABESIUS Malcolm RAN possibly misleading “Percentage Off” deal. This means that your LALOR Merrick ARMY Port Hedland members will find that their discounts are both real and that the actual MARKO David ARMY Eastern Regional LAWSON Craig ARMY dollar savings are substantial, especially on the bigger tickets items. This MELROSE David ARMY BRAIN Claire ARMY special pricing arrangement means that your members, staff and others, WILKERSON Phillip ARMY BRAIN Paul ARMY Port Kennedy will enjoy immediate and significant discounts by merely supplying WILSON William RAN BROWN Edwin ARMY details of their RSL (WA) membership, or affiliation with RSL (WA) – Ellenbrook GRIFFITHS Darryl RAN without having to haggle. Broome COOKE Ian RAN NORMAN Steven RAN Once again we are starting to provide WA members value added BODILL Ian ARMY WHITTAKER Christopher ARMY TONKIN John E. ARMY benefits. BUTCHER Darryl RAAF WYLIE Noel ARMY TONKIN John K. ARMY RICHARDSON Harvey ARMY Remembering core role is Welfare, Pensions and care of all ex, current VALLANCE Lee RAN East Victoria Park Quinns Rocks service men and women, widows and eligible spouse and children. COLLINS David RAN DRIVER Michael ARMY Bullsbrook TAYLOR Rodney RAN Geraldton City Riverton BROWN Robert ARMY FILLA Jerry USN Bunbury EDWARDS Karl RAN GRIFFIN Mark RAAF LAST POST GELMI William ARMY LAWSON Kenneth ARMY SAMWELL Roy ARMY REYNOLDS Darrell ARMY They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Highgate Scarborough Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn. Busselton COLEMAN Norman ARMY BRADSHAW Dean ARMY At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, ANDERTON Owen ARMY EVERT John ARMY STERRY Leonard ARMY We will remember them. Lest We Forget. CASEY Kevin RAAF KIM Sunnyl ALLIED WALTON Stanley ARMY DALGLEISH Peter RAAF MITCHELL Christopher RN The deaths of the following RSL Members (WA Branch) were recorded Serpentine-Jarrahdale FREEMAN Kevin ARMY POSTMUS Gerardus ARMY at ANZAC House between January 2006 and March 2006. LOUGHTON Donald ARMY ANDREWS Rhiannon RAN RENGEL Paul RAAF BARTLE Richard RAAF Navy HESFORD Gerald WX12691 MCMAHON Michael ARMY HIPPER Graeme 55699 WATERSON Antony RAN Kalgoorlie BELL Derek ARMY LANGRIDGE James 13976 HUMPHREYS David W1665 BURLEIGH Wayne ARMY BARLTROP Brian ARMY TURNER Oliver PO/X119400 JENKINS H.S. WX34270 CELENZA Anthony ARMY CROSSE Reginald 24976 Canning Dists-Vic Park GREEN Peter ARMY JENNINGS J.F. NX156256 LEWIS William ARMY HARDEY Maisie RAAF DANN Graham R112494 LEACH Mervyn 52379 DELOOZE Iris R85107 HARDEY Strelley RAAF LEAHY M.J. WX9312 Karratha & Districts HEWITT Albert F3976 MARSH Alan RAAF MALLIS Anthony WX38302 Capel MOREY Lloyd FV323 ARCHER Dario ARMY MORRIS Owen WX6173 RYAN Noel ARMY SIMPSON Stanley PJX674875 Shenton Park O'NEIL Ronald WX30074 MONGA William ARMY SPITTELER F.H.W 17371 SHOVE Norman WX16557 Central SALINOVICH Peter ARMY LOCHORE David ARMY Army WILLOUGHBY Patrick WX27813 SHEATHER William ARMY BLOK Bendert ARMY Toodyay SCOTT F. WX27637 Air Force ELLIS Harold RAAF BELL Keith 37953 Kwinana ROBINSON Neil RAAF DENNIS J.W. 38237 DRAKE Kingsley WX36536 City of Cockburn STRONACH Donald ARMY FRASER Mildred P/208952 HALFTER Nicholas 4613 Wanneroo-Joondalup HENWOOD Patrick 29367 DONNELLY Kevin ARMY GARDINER Robert VX119643 Leonora NEWTON Andrew ARMY LEGGE Jack 5985 LAUFFER Gerald 84268 HUTCHINGS Norman RAN MOULTON John 38141 KYRWOOD Brian ARMY HANUSZEWICZ Stanley ARMY PECKITT Ronald RAN MCCLARE Francis VX26217 RUSSELL Sharlene ARMY PEASE Richard 58586 MAHER Thomas 16160 MCLEAN Sydney RAAF JENKINS Belinda ARMY ROSBOROUGH John 38806 MITCHELL Thomas 29470 MILLSON Donald ARMY SOLO-HAMILTON Rod ARMY WRIGLEY Harry 16997 Yanchep-Two Rocks ROWDEN Thomas 19034220 PAPARONE Giuseppe ARMY SMITH Arthur WX2891 ARMSTRONG W.M. 415003 Manning GILCHRIST Jeffrey RAN BIRCH T.W. 415298 SWAIN Samuel RAF WEIR George WX26359 ROCK Michael RAN WILSON Robert WX26161 BOAKES Robert 141645 City of Mandurah SWAIN Sarah RAF WITHERS Charles WX5371 BOSTELMAN Jack 406635 BEESLEY Glenn ARMY BOYLAN L.E. WX17716 FOWLER Raymond 38884 BROWN Mervyn ARMY Margaret River York BROWNE Maxwell 52767 MCBEATTY John 430546 DEAN Michael ARMY INGLIS Mark ARMY CHANG Sooyong ALLIED BROWNING Robert 54410 PRYCE Robert 85931 GILLZAN Ronal ARMY LOCKE Amanda RAAF CLITHEROE John ARMY ROGERS Kenneth A23399 CAMPBELL R.A. WX11220 HARPER David ARMY CLITHEROE John P ARMY CARAVIAS Milton 38796 WATSON R.J. 45935 Murray CLUTTERBUCK Albert 14922340 KING Peter ARMY CUENCA Anthony ARMY CROSBY A.B. WX14119 Women’s Services LITTLER Bryan ARMY ILES Jeffrey RAN GARDINER David ARMY CULLEN F.F. WX10080 BROWN Mollie WFX22202 MAY Peter RAN GARDINER Lancelot ARMY DRISCOLL James WX27144 HELLER (nee BREARLEY) A. WFX 3308 PRICE Raymond ARMY Nannup GARDINER Robert ARMY GWYNNE-HARRIS David 22205776 WENMAN Beryl WF94543 PRYCE Brian RAAF GLASTONBURY Colin RAN POWER Leon ARMY THE LISTENING POST August/September 2006 23 No 204 Military Antiques Warehouse Pilots Course Graduates at Pearce SPECIALISING IN: 204 PLT Course ARMY – NAVY – AIRFORCE Diamond 9 over Perth.Photo by: LAC POLICE – PRISONS – FIRE Allan Cooper AND EMERGENCY SERVICES BUY – SELL – TRADE

Ten pilots from No 204 Pilots Course Officer for the graduation and he was impressed CONSIGNMENT ALSO ACCEPTED graduated from No 2 Flying Training School by the standard of the parade. In his address, Air at RAAF Base Pearce on Friday 26 May. Commodore Paule recognised the effort put in by The graduates included eight RAAF and two RAN the graduates but encouraged them to continue WE BUY AND SELL: pilots who will now begin conversion training on their hard work to achieve the highest levels of operational aircraft including the P3 Orion, professional excellence, leadership and teamwork Challenger CL-604 and the Hawk Lead-in Fighter. in the operational environment. MEDALS – MILITARIA – SWORDS The Navy graduates will begin conversion on the As is customary prior to each graduation, 2FTS RAN’s Squirrel Helicopter. paid tribute to the hard work put in by the student BAYONETTES – BADGES The student pilots have undergone an intensive pilots. Each student was hosted by a QFI in a 38-week course to become military pilots. ‘Thunderbird’ formation flypast. The Thunderbird formation consists of 26 PC-9/A aircraft and is the UNIFORMS – EQUIPMENT 2FTS evolved from the original Australian Military largest formation the RAAF undertakes. The route Flying Training School. This School started flown encompasses a flyover of Rottnest Island, AND MILITARY VEHICLES training pilots on Bristol Box kites at Point Cook a Perth City and RAAF Base Pearce where family few days after the outbreak of World War 1. Since and friends are gathered to help celebrate. those times military flying training has had to adapt to a series of rapid and sweeping changes There were seven separate award winners for No 204 PLT Course: SERVICES dictated by war and the advances of technology. Today the course at 2FTS provides training from Officer Cadet Will Grady general to advanced instrument, night, formation won Dux of the Course, Most Proficient Pilot flying, (including navigation), using the Pilatus PC- and Highest Academic Marks. MEDAL MOUNTING 9/A. The Navigation award went to Sub Lieutenant The unit graduates a calibre of military aviator of Micheal Ruger. FRAMING the RAAF and RAN who is capable of flying Officer Cadet Steven Andrews training aircraft with the skill and confidence won the Instrument Flying award. necessary to allow ready transition to operational Officer Cadet Robbie Cousland Open 6 Days: Monday to Saturday 10am – 5pm aircraft. As such, and in keeping with the won the Aerobatics prize (Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays) traditions of the RAAF and RAN, the standards of Officer Cadet Edward Borman flying skill and airmanship that trainees must Most Improved and Phone: 04 000 789 37 develop at 2FTS are very high. Officer Cadet Scott Horsfol 21 Tullock Way, Canning Vale 6155 Commander Training Command - Air Force, Air won the Leadership prize. www.militaryaniqueswarehouse.com.au Commodore Kevin Paule was the Reviewing By: FLTLT Simon Webb

Agent Licenses 9TA 937, 9TA938 CASEY AUSTRALIA TOURSABN 14092360430 Ph: 9339 4291 or :1800 999 677 63 BIRDWOOD CIRCUS BICTON WA 6157 Email:[email protected] 6 DAY PILBARA, EXMOUTH, 7 DAY MT AUGUSTUS, 16 DAY CENTRAL AUSTRALIA, 4 DAY NORTHERN & CORAL BAY & KARRATHA MONKEY MIA & KALBARRI TANAMI TRACK PILBARA WILDFLOWER 23RD AUGUST 5TH AUGUST & 6TH SEPTEMBER 30TH SEPTEMBER 30TH AUGUST & 6TH SEPTEMBER Featuring Karijini National Park, some of the Leaving the bitumen at Meekatharra through to This tour experiences The Gibson Desert, The In late Winter and early Spring the Northern gorges we see here are as impressive as any Mount Augustus, the world’s largest Monolith. Tanami Desert and the Great Sandy Desert. The Wheatbelt and Southern Stations traditionally you would see in Australia. West by the Kennedy Ranges to Carnarvon. sparseness of these deserts is in contrast to abound in bloom with the annual display At Exmouth we visit the spot where oil was fi rst Monkey Mia, the Z bend and Natures Window the other exciting attractions on the tour, Uluru, of Wreath Leschenaultia, Wild Hibiscus and struck in W.A. in the 1950’s. on the Murchison River. Geikie George, Broome and Karijini National Everlastings. Park. Including: Including: KARRATHA Including: CO MULLEWA TALERING Return Flights KARIJINI Cabin & Motel MT Including: ALSEAM EXMOUTH NAT. PARK Hotel & Motel YALGOO Motel Accomm Accommodation CARNARVON AUGUSTUS Camping Accomm BROOME GEIKIE GORGE CORAL Accommodation MORAWA All evening meals, All meals, Most meals TANAMI DESERT PAYNES FIND BAY TOM CUE PORT All meals, Cooked Breakfasts except two lunches. MONKEY MIA Entries to various HEDLAND ALICE DALWALLINU PRICE SPRINGS MT NEWMAN Entries to various COOMBERDALE Entries to various FLY Entries to various attractions (see itinerary) AYERS MAGNET attractions (see itinerary) PERTH NEW NORCIA attractions (see itinerary) attractions (see itinerary) KALBARRI ROCK FLY KALGOORLIE $1850 SENIOR $960 SENIOR $209O SENIOR PERTH $570 SENIOR PERTH PERTH $1890 ADULT $980 ADULT $2140 ADULT $590 ADULT 6 DAY MEANDERING 3 DAY WALGA ROCK, CUE 4 DAY SOUTH WEST 10 DAY TASMANIA SOUTH AUSTRALIA MT MAGNET & YALGOO - SPRING IN THE FOREST - 22ND OCTOBER 30TH SEPTEMBER 9TH DECEMBER 23RD OCTOBER South Australia has many famous and beautiful Tasmania is rife with beauty and colonial history. The South West of Western Australia has a Three days of beauty and history at Mount poetic mix of natural forest, rolling fi elds, large regions for us to visit on this tour. Starting with Magnet, Cue, Day Dawn, Big Bell and a evening We visit Port Arthur, a place of historic suffering. Adelaide, onto the Adelaide Hills, the Mouth of We travel to Strahan to take a wonderful cruise industry and recent history. Champagne BBQ at the base of Walga Rock (a The Manjimup Timber Museum, Valley of the the Murry River, the Barossa Valley and The mini Uluru). on the Gordon River, one of the most majestic stunning Flinders Ranges. Giants, Tree top walk, Cruise the Walpole Inlet CUE rivers in Australia. YALGOO STANLEY DEVONPORT and Cape Leeuwin feature on this tour. Including: MT MAGNET Including: ST HELENS Return Flights PORT FLINDERS RANGES Including: MORAWA Return Flights Including: Motel & 2 Bedroom LAUNCESTON AUGUSTA Motel Accomm Motel Accomm ST MARYS Motel Accomm 1&35) Apartments HAWKER PAYNES FIND ZEEHAN $0--*& All meals, All evening meals QUEENSTOWN All meals, except lunches. All evening meals BAROSA VALLEY Entries to various NEW NORCIA Continental Breakfasts STRAHAN ROSS Entries to various Continental Breakfasts ."/+*.61 4 MURRAY BRIDGE attractions (see itinerary) PERTH Entries to various attractions (see itinerary) #644&-50/ Entries to various ADELAIDE 1&.#&350/ attractions (see itinerary) RICHMOND attractions (see itinerary) HOBART $1290 SENIOR $490 SENIOR $2990 SENIOR $560 SENIOR HASTINGS PORT AURTHUR "6(645" 8"-10-& $1310 ADULT $510 ADULT $3090 ADULT $570 ADULT

ONE DAY ONE DAY & ONE DAY YORK 175TH YEAR ONE DAY BALINGUP NANNUP ONE DAY NEW NORCIA & GINGIN WAVE ROCK PINNACLES - DAFFODIL & TULIP FESTIVAL - ANNIVERSERAY CELEBRATIONS 24TH SEPTEMBER 27TH AUGUST 20TH AUGUST 17TH SEPTEMBER 13TH AUGUST Out to Wave Rock for lunch, visit Hippo’s Yawn, Morning tea on the banks of the Moore River, In Nannup there are fl ower displays, street stalls Enjoy a delightful tour of New Norcia, the Wave itself, climb to the top and generally Lunch at Cervantes, a fter lunch out to The and a festival. We have lunch in Nannup. In the Come out to the country to celebrate the Founded by Dom Salvardo and named after explore this interesting natural wonder. On the Pinnacles, where you can walk through a most late afternoon we take one of the most delightful 175th Year of the oldest inland town in WA. way home we stop at another unusual place unique landscape. Then follow the new coastal drives in WA along the River to quaint little the birth place of St Benedict. Visit the world ‘The Corrigin Dog Cemetery’ road to Jurien, home through Gingin. Balingup. Return to Perth via Donnybrook. Stalls, shows, parades, arts & crafts. famous New Norcia Art Gallery Including: $72 SENIOR Including: Morning Tea Morning Tea $72 SENIOR Including: $72 SENIOR Including: $58 SENIOR Including: $54 SENIOR $75 ADULT Morning Tea Morning Tea Lunch Lunch $75 ADULT $75 ADULT Morning Tea $57 ADULT Entry to Wave Rock & Hippo’s Yawn Entry to Pinnacles Lunch Lunch $62 ADULT Lunch

FOR A FULL ITINERARY BROUCHURE CALL 9339 4291 OR RURAL CALLERS 1800 999 677

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