Newsletter 111996 April 1996 Museum News = Good News!! A.R. Roberts

Following the Duntroon Executive Council Meeting in The relocation of the Museum and its collocation March 1992, I was invited to represent the Society on what was with the RMC Archives will enable the Archivist and then the RMC Historical Collection Management Committee to Assistant Archivist to provide a permanent presence give effect to the intention of the Society that its gift to the RMC at the Museum (perhaps with assistance from in 2011 should be a Centenary Museum. In March 1993, the volunteer guides - a future task for the Society?). Executive endorsed an objective for a proposed Museum The Archivist has already attended a Curator's Committee for the Society as follows: Introductory Course and will attend subsequent To raise funds for the design, develop~nentand construction courses to fully qualify him to formally run the of the RMC Centenary M~iseunzand to provide assistance to Museum, thus enabling the Museum to gain fully the RMC Historical Collection Committee, including the accredited Museum status. (Under an Army- provision oj historical itenzs. wide Project Army Heritage, the Army intends to establish well-managed, well-presented Army Your Museum Committee has met once, in October 1993. It museums and more efficient management of Army's agreed that an extensive fund-raising campaign would be needed heritage resources. Over the next two years, Army for the Centenary Museum and that an essential prerequisite was intends to give museums which can meet the that potential donors should be able to visualise what was required standards more visibility, more consistent intended by way of a permanent building and where within the funding and common technical standards.) As an RMC it would be located. The major proposals (now being put example, Ross Howarth, the RMC Archivist, hopes it into effect) for redevelopment of the RMC then began to surface will be possible when the Museum is re-established, and the then-Commandant indicated that, since HQ CSC would to hold and display weapons and other items which return to building A68 which had housed the Museum since its cannot be shown because of current space and inception, a new temporary home for it would have to be found. security limitations. It was proposed that this be the old Ration Store behind the A number of related matters which were discussed at the Duntroon shops and that it might be possible to fund the September meeting of the RMC Historical Executive Committee necessary alterations without assistance from the Society and transfer the Museum about the middle of 1996. also impact on the future of the Museum and its importance in the life of the RMC: As you will be aware from recent Newsletters, much has Contact is being made or maintained with the happened in the past year, with the physical development of the associations or other bodies representing the RMC, with the appointment of the Commandant as Training graduates of the Officer Training Unit (OTU) Adviser for all first appointment officers throughout the Army Scheyville, the Officer Cadet School (OCS) Portsea, and with the commencement of a new range of officer courses at and the WRAAC Officer Cadet School to encourage the College. Brigadier Willis reconvened a RMC Historical them to contribute to display areas within the Executive meeting in September and confirmed the following Museum and to solicit display material from their arrangements: members. A permanent home for the Museum could be found There is greater scope for cadet involvement with the in Building A34 (originally the Chemistry Block and Museum, perhaps through the CSC company currently the home of the Bridges Memorial Library museums which will continue to exist. Companies and the RMC Archives) adjacent to the Parade might like to sponsor displays specific to particular Ground, where it would be collocated with the RMC companies. Archives, with the Archivist as Curator. There are (or would be) adequate ablution facilities and counter As part of the RMC development, a self-guided space for a Museum shop. The building would not walking tour for visitors is being developed and the require any major renovation. Museum in its new location will be an important station along the tour. The current renovation and new building at the As will be seen, the Society has been relieved of the rather RMC means that this pennanent home cannot be daunting task of raising capital funds for a future permanent occupied until the completion of a chain of events home for the Museum. Ross Howarth points out that, since there which involves moves of the Bridges Memorial will be much more space and opportunity for display when the Library and CSC Headquarters (the latter eventually Museum reopens in 1997, the Society might now concentrate its returning to their original home in the present efforts on the second part of the objective of the Society's Museum, Building A68). Museum Committee, to provide assistance to the (RMC The Museum has therefore closed in its present M~ise~i171)i~~cliiding the provi.~io~zof historical items. The big location and the exhibits have been placed in gaps in current heritage holdings begin after 1939 and continue. temporary storage under control of the On your behalf I shall pursue this aspect further with the Archivist/Curator. The Museum will reopen in its Archivist during 1996 and try to provide guidance through the new and permanent location in December 1996. Newsletter and directly with the Branches on which specific areas need contribution from individuals or classes. Some Branches have already been most generous in providing display This, That and the Other cases and other equipment for the Museum. I am sure there will always be a need to supplement the limited public funds D.A. McCormack in Newsletter 2/1995, wrote of A Little available and the RMC's self-help programmes. I shall therefore Known Event at the RMC. He noted, correctly, how unlikely it also examine with the Archivist what may be needed and when. was for anyone other than authorised staff and the staff cadets to During 1996, while the Museum is closed, Branches might like set foot on the RMC parade ground and he implied that his unit, to think about putting aside or accumulating funds for future 12 Division Signals, was unique in being allowed to march on it Museum assistance. as a regiment of 'outsiders'. In fact a unit of women soldiers beat Finally, some housekeeping matters. At the September 1995 him to it. On 6 April 1943 an Australian Women's Army Service meeting of the Duntroon Society Executive Council, it was (AWAS) unit marched on to the RMC parade ground to be agreed that the Duntroon Society Museum Committee should be inspected and addressed by Lady Cowrie, the wife of the dissolved, but that I should remain the Society's Representative Governor-General. As many members of this AWAS unit were on the RMC Historical Executive Committee. It was also agreed drawn from the other rank staff of the RMC, it may be argued that I should be the Museum Representative on the Duntroon that it was not strictly a unit of 'outsiders' Society Executive Council. The decision by the Commandant to Among those on parade was Sergeant G.E. Badman, later appoint OTU, OCS and WRAAC representatives to the Warrant Officer Class 1 and subsequently Mrs Grace Watson, Executive Council will enable me, through my membership, to the wife of Warrant Officer Class 1 G.J. (Fango) Watson, the maintain and improve the contribution of these past officer- RSM of the RMC from 1944 to 1953. Mrs Watson is a Life commissioning institutions and their graduates, to the RMC Member of the Duntroon Society. Museum. I thank members of the Museum Committee for their willing advice and assistance since 1993. I invite Branches or Branch Proxies to deal directly with me (06 28 13 158) on Museum or other historical matters. Ross Howarth also invites thein to deal directly with him (06 2759733) on such matters as possible donations of items for the Museum or details of what it - or the [In eight earlier Newsletters, Major H.B. McKenzie (1933) RMC Archives - now hold. contributed photographs and reminiscences. In this edition he does so again, including a photograph of the pupils of Duntroon Brigadier A.R. (Tan) Roberts entered the Officer Cadet School. Ed.] School (OCS) Portsea on 7 January 1952 as a member of the first course of that School. He graduated on 6 June 1952 into the Royal Australian Infantry . As Deputy Chief of Army Reserve at Army Office he retired on 5 April 1983. As Many memories were stirred by Newsletter //I995 in the senior serving member of the OCS, he was the first reading Colonel Williams' remark about the near miss Staff President of the Major General Sir James Harrison Cadet L.W. (Bill) Thornton (1934) had in the laboratory. In this Memorial Lecture Trust from March 1982 until his particular year my father would have been teaching much the retirement. same syllabus for some 20 years. Nitro Glycerine is a dangerous substance, but for practical purposes with the class divided into pairs, we would make a small portion. After completion, the surplus would be put out of harm's way and a drop placed on an anvil. A staff cadet would be selected to strike the sample with a hammer to prove that we had made the real McCoy. In this instance the first blow failed and the second strike blew a fragment into Bill Thornton. A subsequent inquiry was to exonerate my father of all blame. The syllabus at the RMC was repeated each year, not only in academic subjects but also in practical subjects of a military Profile of the Students at the nature. This led to certain practices of which I am now ashamed RMC but, protected by the passing years, write of them now. For instance, it was not unknown for the senior class to pass on essays in English and the marks for each year would be noted. It Current Strength (I 0 April 1996) was surprising to see the variation that occurred. Similarly, in CSC such sub.jects as Map Reading and Field Sketching, training Second Class practices were in a kind of Time Warp. Up to the late thirties Third Class there was no new equipment and no advance in science subjects Ready Reserve First Appointment Course and any free thinking on the role of aircraft versus the battleship Kuwait was put down very quickly. The use of light automatics was Fiji unacceptable on the grounds that they would use too much Malaysia ammunition. New Zealand On reflection, staff cadets of my era were probably of Papua New Guinea younger age than later entries and we certainly did not have the Philippines sophistication of modern youth with its access to cars and RAAF television etc.. A night on the town - a one shilling (I/-) picture Singapore show, a threepenny (3d.) icecream and sixpence (6d.) worth of Tonga sweets to bring back to barracks, left little from a week's pocket ADFA Graduates money of five shillings (51.) [$7.30 at present values]. We each Manied had a blue suit and I recall a certain member of First Class Females borrowing same from my classmate and returning it saying, Cadets with previous military experience Here5 J'OLI~.r~~it back. It dirlrl'tfit nze so I had it altered! AWAS on the RMCparade ground on 6 April 1943 for the visit of Lady Cowrie. Sergeant Badman is leading the centre rank of the lefr platoon.

Prompted by the Australia Remembers theme during 1995, The Canberra Times took this photograph close to the spot where the AWAS paraded just over 52 years earlier. From the left: Lorna Thompson (76), Grace Watson (82), & Rita Elliott (73)who were part of that memorable event. Graduation Year 1937

E.G. Williams

[This is the third and last article in the series about life as a Being First Class in purely cadet matters we, naturally, had staff cadet, 1934-37. Colonel Williams continues from the return to lead the way and I will briefly mention some of the things for after the Christmas leave of 1936-7. Ed.] which we were responsible. First, the initiation. I think we adhered to the time-honoured procedures and questions in this, but probably not to the extent that we suffered. I do not This effusion is to complete my saga of the long ago. When remember any of the Class of 1937 having to remove service we returned from Christmas leave in 1937 it was not to the green paint from their pubic areas. Second, the vaudeville show Duntroon Wing in Victoria Barracks in Sydney, but to the old conducted in the gym. It really was a good piece of home of the Royal Military College - Duntroon. The train did entertainment - Comedy Harmonists, Tap Dancing by L.W. not go into the main part of Canberra, so we finished our return (Bill) Thornton (1934) and L.J. (Len) Loughran (1933), journey by vehicle - a brand new bus with the RMC badge on it. Bingsing by E.H.C. Hipkins (1935), the Gymkhana down in the [See also photograph on p. 131 This was just to be an Horse Paddock and the Cross Country Race (at least I finished!). introduction to a new way of life for us - more plush than it had There may be others, but I remember them not. been in Sydney. Many other things of note did happen in this our final year. As we arrived at the College, nestling beneath Mt Russell, We found out fairly early into which- we were to graduate. our first sight beheld the immensity of the square (ceremonial Mine was Infantry, although I had asked for Artillery. To further parades were going to be a piece of cake forthwith). Next we our knowledge of what lay for us in the future we had two early saw the two accommodation blocks, with between them the 'commissions' as second lieutenants. The first was to Sydney flagpole, the 'In Memoriam' stone and the Mess. It wasn't long where, as a Class, we were introduced to the 9.2 inch guns at before we were in our private rooms with a table, a wardrobe and North Head and the tunnelling to support their maintenance in other impedimenta already in situ. Investigation of the Mess action. The second was as adjutants of units in our Arm. I showed two billiard tables, a 'Rogues Gallery' of all past particularly recall a night parade of 30 Bn (the N.S.W. Scottish graduates and a comfortable lounge room downstairs, with Regiment) and some 'fraternising' with their kilted subalterns. 'Enobesra' there. An adequate dining room already had a 'Days Our third trip was, as far as I was concerned, a trip in the College to Go' board provided. We found the other things gradually - the bus to attend a brigade camp at Mt Martha in Victoria. These classrooms, the gymnasium, Duntroon House, the stables and trips had one main impression on me - that adjutants were very the Orderly Room (a place to dodge) and, on the hill, the grave busy fellows. I confirmed this when I was posted as Adjutant of the first Commandant - Major General Sir William Throsby and Quartermaster in 1938. Bridges. As a Class we were required to plan a tactical exercise with As the new senior Class there was a certain amount of troops and I was very pleased to find that my exercise along responsibility - even for UCpl E.G. Williams, looking after a Majura Lane was selected. It showed that my study of our number of junior cadets in our blocks - but it was not a very Tactics precis paid dividends. I was to use this exercise as a onerous task. However, it was not long before we were able to blackboard exercise for my Sunday morning classes with my break the even tenor of our ways. Mine was that of being CMF battalion later! particularly careful not to doze off in Tactics lectures. This was There was to be no Cavalry Trek for the Infantry specialists hard because, (a) generally it was the first after lunch, (b) Major that year. Instead, we took Third and Fourth Classes for an H.G. Rourke (1914) had a monotonous voice (to my ears Infantry Trek - complete with foot inspections, water discipline anyhow), and (c) the classroom was located upstairs with the and outdoor sleeping. As I do not remember any requirement for afternoon sun beating in. cooking, I think B Echelon caught up with us at night. The Class was invited to a party put on by the Canberra During all this time our social engagements were proceeding people and I think most of us picked out our lasses and stayed satisfactorily. My lass lived in Mugga Way and her home was with them for the year. (Sounds bad doesn't it?). Only one of us the scene of much jollification. As an infantry officer (to be), it married his - S.T.G. (Dave) Coleman (1934). This party lead to was no effort to walk down the road to the farm, then across the some acrimony between the younger Public Servants and the fields to the ford near the power-house (there was no lake), then staff cadets, for the supply of lasses became less for the former up to Mugga Way. We didn't have to wony about getting home or so it seemed. I remember one night at the Civic Theatre when as the girls had the cars! there was a row of staff cadets with lasses and in front of them a row of young Public Servants without lasses. We had a few Rugby matches against visiting teams from Sydney and in one I remember a fist in my eye during a scrum, But life went on. There was a jumping race built and, with my eye swelling up to a stinker. I took no punitive action amongst other things, we trained our gun horses to jump, which except to note that my opposing hooker was running around brings to mind a little anecdote. We were doing jumping Cavalry soon afterwards, also with a stinker. work, crossed stirrups and taking off the jacket as one went over the triple jumps. My horse (and I) safely negotiated jumps one Of course, ceremonial parades were still held to honour and two but refused at jump three. My grip with my knees was various important occasions and I think that our Class felt there not enough and with my hands behind my back, I ploughed up was something in them, for the Corps of Staff Cadets had now the dirt with my nose. In the terms of the Sunburnt Bloody risen to 67 and was thus enough to turn on a decent sort of show. Stockman, I apostrophised my bloody cuddy, to which WO I am sure that it was, although today's numbers make it look (Bert) Easter said, That's right Corporal Williams, talk to your something like a fleabite. 'orse! I think our class (with one exception) loved the work with I must mention the boxing championship where I finished up horses - driving gun teams, steeple chases, tent-pegging. At our in the final against a 'molly dooker' and, despite my second's last Cavalry period, when our instructor Major W.B. Maguire plea to hook him, his right seemed to be making all sorts of a (1925) asked what we would like to do, we replied, Troop Drill mess of my nose. The comments in the Journal by my second (he at the Gallop! was the catchweight champion) said that neither of us was much The Duntroon School about 1920. Only two in this photograph have been identified - back left is the teachev, Mr Jones, and the secondfrom the right rear is D.G. McKenzie (1930)- later a brigadier: Although probably a forlorn hope, any assistance with other names would be appreciated.

good. I believe him. J also figured (not very well) as Captain of Duntroon School the Second XI - my main prowess being spin bowling, but I was no Shane Warne! All of these things were leading to 13 December 1937 and I H.B. McKenzie had invited my family (Dad, Mum & two sisters) down for the big day. Neville Cowper (NZ) and I had hired a jalopy and I took my family to the Civic Theatre and afterwards to coffee, but The Duntroon School of the 1920's had been built on an area while I could find my way all over Canberra on a horse, it took within what is now the Academy. The me a very long time to get them back to their hotel in a car. School had two rooms and two teachers. Mr Jones, the Then came my big day in the presence of the Govemor- Headmaster for many years, lived in Hall and would drive from General, where we marched up and down - Quick Time, Slow there each morning, bringing some of the children with him. He Time, Advance in Review Order - and then the Presentation. No was a kindly man, full of stories and a great naturalist, respected prize for Williams - a Rugby Honour Cap, my Graduation by his students and all at Duntroon. certificate, my Commission and my Equitation and Riding On Monday mornings the flag was raised and God Save the certificates - but there it was, I had made it! That night in the King and Advance Australia Fair sung. Once a fortnight Mrs Gymnasium we had the Graduation Ball, at which we started the Jones would spend a day teaching the girls sewing. The boys custom of our partners putting our 'pips' on our shoulders - and learned basic carpentry. The school garden, mainly vegetables, eventually to bed [Oh, what fun!]. was treated with respect. However, there was little respect for a I hope that in these three papers I have portrayed some of the new boy who had to establish his place in the pecking order and things which happened in the four years of the class that entered this usually took three or four fights on the way home! the Corps of Staff Cadets in 1934. We were there when young and as someone wrote in an autograph book of mine, Better to For those not quite old enough for school there was a aim high and to miss than to aim low and succeed. We did aim kindergarten. This was run by a Mrs Bundock in one of the high and we did succeed. vacant rooms of the College. Duntrune Castle in Argyllshire with

Loch Crinan inI the background. Photographed in November 1995 by .W 0. Pugh (1946) with the permission of m of Poltallock, thez present owner of th!e castle.

The History of the Memorial As It Once Was Lecture 80 Years Ago - April 1916 [Since Newsletter 2M1990, edited versions of the Major On 11 April 1916 the Governor-General, the Right General Sir James Harrison Memorial Lectures have Honourable Sir Ronald Munro Ferguson, visited the RMC. occasionally appeared in these pages. Other references to their Third Class formed the Guard of Honour. During the visit he presentation have been made in most editions of the Newsletter also inspected the Officers' Training School, dined in the since then. There may be some readers not fully aware of the Cadets' Mess and visited each cadet in his room. background to these Lectures being given at the RMC. This A cinematograph exhibition of films, kindly lent by The small piece may help. Ed.] Amalgamated Picture Co. of Melbourne, was given at the College. The Major General Sir James Harrison Memorial Lecture was conceived in October 1980, when the then Commandant of the Officer Cadet School (Colonel B.G. Florence), proposed that 40 Years Ago - April 1956 a memorial lecture be instituted to commemorate the establishment of the Officer Cadet School at Portsea. On 7 April 1956 the sports' results were: Following the appropriate approvals, the Major General Sir Rugby - RMC 1 defeated Queanbyan 25 - 8. James Harrison Memorial Lecture Trust was established in March 1982, with donations from the Officer Cadet School Hockey - RMC 1 defeated Sydney University 6 - 0. Cadets' Mess, the Officer Cadet School Officers' Mess and the Soccer - RMC drew with Hollandia 2 - 2. graduates of the Officer Cadet School. The Trust aims to On I I April 1956 the Corps of Staff Cadets paraded in promote excellence in junior leadership by sponsoring the honour of the First Sea Lord, Admiral the Earl Mountbatten presentation of a lecture by an eminent Australian or New of Burma. Zealander to cadet graduation classes. The inaugural lecture was given by Lieutenant General Sir Thomas Daly (1930) on 10 20 Years Ago - April 1976 November 1982. Following the closure of the Officer Cadet School in December 1985, the Trust was transferred to the Royal The establishment of an RMC Saddle Club is being Military College where the lectures are now presented. The first considered and enquiries should be made by contacting the of these was by Sir Richard Blackburn, in November 1986. The Supervising Officer Equestrian Activities, Lieutenant Trust is presided over by the senior serving member of the Colonel D.E. Paterson (1952). Officer Cadet School, currently Major General F.J. Hickling. The RMC Band, in conjunction with a choir of 100 singers, The Harrison Memorial Lecture is generally presented in the is performing for the Australian-American Association's Bi- final weeks before graduation and is considered the culminating centennial Committee's special presentation of Say It With presentation to the cadets on leadership. Music in the Canberra Theatre. Letters to the Editor

Under this heading in Newsletter 1/1995 it was noted that the From Major H.B. McKenzie (1933). Elder of the Society was Major General Sir William Gentry (1916). This is not correct. Since the death of Major General I have just received Newsletter 2/1995. As one gets older, I The Reverend C.A. Osbome on 11 June 1994, the Elder has find that small and sometimes trivial reminders of the past give been Major General I.R. Campbell (1919), who was born on great pleasure and often overwhelm more current matters in this 23 March 1900. rapidly changing world. I found that the article by Colonel E.G. Williams (1934) On Saturday 24 February 1996, the General Reserve Full brought back many memories, as he was for three years a Time Commissioning Course marched off the RMC parade contemporary. Although Major P. Trost (1946) was some twelve ground at the completion of their Graduation Parade. Their years after my time, I can see that many of the customs I knew course began just eight weeks earlier on 3 1 December 1995 still persisted in his time. and the restricted format of the ceremonial reflected that I have said that small and trivial reminders often play an very short training period. However, among those watching important part in one's recollections. In this case the photo taken was a small group from the Class that had entered the RMC in the Mess depicted the mess table very much as I knew it. The 50 years before. Since 1946 they could justly claim a long large brown enamel teapot and the Worcestershire Sauce bottle experience of observing such parades and were most were very much in evidence. I have never liked this sauce since impressed with the high standard of that one. Both the those days when, in Fourth Class, we would consume large Officer Cadets and their instructors should be proud of their quantities without complaint and accepted it as part of our lot. showing on that hallowed ground. I was pleased to see that there was a much more relaxed atmosphere at the table and Fourth Class did not have to sit to Mrs Sally Mathieson, the daughter of the late Major General attention. I only mention these two trivialities because they Sir William Gentry, has recently completed an edited version remain in my memory, whereas the one really important day in of the letters that her father wrote to his wife during the War my College career, namely graduation, does not. Until I saw that of 1939-45. Mrs Mathieson is selling the book, titled, Bill old photograph of the 1936 graduation parade I would have said Gentry's War 1939-1945, by mail order. Maps and that our parade was on the square in front of our old building! photographs are included in the book which is priced at $NZ25. Orders should be sent to: Mrs Sally Mathieson, 33 Marsden Avenue, Karori, From N.W.W. (Norman) Wilson (1939). Wellington, New Zealand. In a short note received before Christmas the above Member sent to all Members of the Society his season's greetings. He still The Duntroon Society Award at the Graduation on 12 lives at: December 1995 was presented to Corporal D.M. Edwards, 3 10 Layman Lane, who graduated into the Royal Regiment of Australian Bloomington, Artillery. He is currently completing his honours degree in Minnesota, 55420, Politics at the Australian Defence Force Academy. U.S.A. Having been in the U.S.A. since 1952, he finds his Devotees and past customers of the Quarter Bar may be membership of the Society and the Newsletter a strong and pleased to know that it is to be re-opened. The proposal is memorable link with Duntroon, his Class and the Army. In that it be located in the Corps of Staff Cadets' Mess. Newsletter 2/1987 there appeared a very brief resume of his life in the U.S.A. with the offer to any Duntrooner passing by to call Within the current RMC development approvals, is one of in. reconstructing the ovals. They will be dug up and their surfaces reshaped for better drainage and given a deeper covering of top soil. A new pavilion will be built between the Rugby and the Australian Rules Football fields, while the athletics track will become the new Rugby field.

Obituary

Since the publication of the last Newsletter we have been advised of the deaths of the following:

14 Oct 1991 Major General Sir William Gentry (1916) 7 Oct 1993 Major G.M. Tomline (1945) 30 May 1995 Major General L. de L. Barham (1 9 18) 10 Oct 1995 Major General W.G. Henderson (1940) 26 Oct 1995 Brigadier A.W.F. Rofe (1944) 8 Nov 1995 Major R.F. Walsh (1 94 1) 11 Nov 1995 Major L.M. Jarman (1941) 6 Dec 1995 Major K.E. Mair (1944) Weekend At Mildura

Ready for the Bus Tour: The three front rows from the left: Mary Bleechmore, WJ.A. Wills (1940),Judy Stove, S.J. Bleechmore (1933),P W Beiers (19401,A.M. Stove (19601, D.J. Mannett (1946), J.A. Clark (1945),R.R. Harding (1946),Jean Mannett, Biddy Clark, Elizabeth Harding.

On 15-17 March 1996, 49 Duntroon Society Members from Undoubtedly the highlight of the weekend was the dinner South Australia, Victoria, ACT and New South Wales and their cruise along the Murray on the Saturday evening. The party wives gathered at Mildura in the Sunraysia area of Victoria for a boarded the 114-year-old paddle vessel Rothbury at 6.30pm for weekend of fellowship and fun. The venue selected is a major pre-dinner drinks and were underway soon after. During the regional centre and central to those who participated. The cruise along the river, guests indulged in a three course dinner, organisation and programme for the weekend was arranged by were entertained and had the opportunity of viewing the wildlife the Victorian Branch Convener Lieutenant Colonel A.M. (Tony) and unusual river scenery illuminated by the vessel's Stove (1960). floodlighting. On the return journey, even though some guests All guests stayed at the Chaffey International Motor Inn took the helm of the Rothbury, we docked safely before which had all the facilities for a comfortable weekend's midnight, still with a full complement of guests. accommodation. Informal dining was the form on the Friday Sunday morning took the form of a farewell breakfast at the evening. On Saturday morning the group toured by coach the Chaffey, as many of the party departed shortly after for return to Mildura area, which was particularly interesting as grape respective destinations, whilst other Members remained for a hamesting/picking was underway. The tour also visited the day or so to savour the sights and activities of the region. Mildura Homestead (a re-created pioneer settlement of the The 'Weekend at Mildura' proved to be pleasant and Sumaysia region) and concluded at the Mildara Blass Winery relaxing for all those who attended. 'The respective Conveners for a wine tasting. The latter was obviously enjoyed by the party have decided to hold a similar joint meeting in 1998 and details if the noise level of conversation was a measure! will be advised well in advance. At the Wine Tasting. Diana Fry, M. J. Lemon (1956) & G.A. Fry (1952).

After pulling away from Mildura wha$ Pre-dinner drinks on the stem of fl Y Rothbury, from the left: Jane Buring, Janette Dade, Dot Nicholls, Muriel & C. Emert (1959), WJ.A Wills (1940) & N.A.M. Nicholls (1939). N.S.W. Branch Lieutenant Colonel R. Hamlyn ' Duntroon Society Office Secretarynreasurer 31 Kenilworth Street Bearers Bondi Junction N.S.W. 2022 Since the publication in Newsletter ]/I994 of the complete (02) 375 6200 (W) list of office bearers of the Duntroon Society, the following (02) 387 2158 (H) changes have occurred: New Zealand Branch Brigadier I.J. Duthie President Brigadier B.G. Stevens Proxy New Zealand High Commission Commandant Commonwealth Ave. Royal Military College Canberra Duntroon A.C.T. 2600 A.C.T. 2600 (06) 270 4247 (W) (06)275 9430 (W)

National Secretary Captain D.P. White Headquarters Royal Military College Council Column Duntroon At its meeting at Duntroon on 14 March 1996, Council, in A.C.T. 2600 addition to routine business, dealt with other matters including (06) 275 970 1 (W) the following:

Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel S.Ellis, AM Centenary Project RMC Training Unit Royal Military College Duntroon In view of the developments described by Brigadier Roberts A.C.T. 2600 elsewhere in this Newsletter, State Branches will be asked to (06) 275 9748 (W) provide suggestions for a new Centenary Project. These suggestions should be received by the National Secretary by 1 Museum Representative Brigadier A.R. Roberts July 1996. All proposals and Branch comments will be & OCS Member 19 Lamington St. discussed at the Council meeting to be held on 6 September Deakin 1996. A.C.T. 2600 (06) 281 3158 (H) Enlarged Council OTU Member Mr 0. Williamson At its meeting on 15 September 1995, Council endorsed OTU Association appointments by the then President, Brigadier S.V.L. Willis, of P.O. Box 425 representatives of the Officer Cadet School, Portsea, the Officer Spring Hill Training Unit, Scheyville and the WRAAC Officer Cadet Queensland 4004 School as members of Council. These members are listed (07) 3934 7736 (W) elsewhere in this Newsletter. On this occasion these institutions (07) 3832 3042 (FAX) were represented for the first time by, respectively, Brigadier OTU Proxy Colonel W.R. Jackson A.R. Roberts, Colonel W.R. Jackson, and Mrs J.M. Healy. The F- 1-67 President, Brigadier B.G. Stevens, welcomed them and International Policy Division remarked on the importance of their presence to the Department of Defence development of the Duntroon Society and to the benefit of the Russell Offices members of the institutions they represent. Canberra A.C.T. 2600 Books of Graduates (06) 265 3539 (W) Among the graduates of the four institutions that now WRAAC OCS Member Mrs J.M. Healy, OAM constitute the Duntroon Society there is a significant number of 49 Vasey Crescent writers. The President requested that Branches ask Members Campbell who are published authors to donate a signed copy of their work A.C.T. 2612 to the Bridges Library where a section will be established for (06) 247 6580 (H & FAX) Alumni who are in this category.

Opposite page. The ofjficial mourners for thefuneral of Major General B.M. Poananga (1944), assembled at Gisbome on Saturday 9 September 1995 before departing for the funeral site near Ruatoria. This was probably the largest ever gathering of present and former Chiefs of the General Staff of the New Zealand Army. Rear row from the left: Colonel J. Morris, Squadron Leader J. Mulligan, Colonel T O'Reilly (1970),Lieutenant General A. Birks (Chief of Defence Staff), Lieutenant Colonel R.J.S. Munro (1964), Lieutenant Colonel A.TA. Mataira (1947), Group Captain J. Barclay, Brigadier J. Denistoun-Wood, Colonel G. Crowley, Brigadier J. Mawson, Brigadier M.F Dodson (1962),Brigadier I.J. Duthie (1959), Colonel R.G. K. Porter (1943), Lieutenant Colonel D.S. Smith (1944),Brigadier A. C. Hamilton (1950), Colonel J.B. Brown (1945),Brigadier E.B. Bestic (1959), & Lieutenant Colonel VB. Brown (1944). Front row: Brigadier L. Smith, Major General K.M. Gordon (1953),Major General R.G. Williams (1949), Major General R.D.P. Hassett (1941),Major General P.M. Reid (1960)(Chief of the General Staff), Mr G. Hensley (Secretaryfor Defence), Major General R.H.F Holloway (1940), Lieutenant General D.S. McIver (1954),Major General B. Meldrum (1956), Brigadier I.H. Burrows (1950), & Mr L. Moeau. n a-?. ..Q C a

1.- ma.. k -*,....6 4 B . . :Ml- C Early Other Rank Staff

W.J. Wark

In 1937 the RMC returned to Duntroon after its period in As the war crept on, members of the Australian Women's Victoria Barracks, Paddington. The staff for the College Army Service (AWAS) began arriving at the RMC. In included members from the Australian Instructional Corps, the addition, the RMC Hospital had members of the Australian RAA, the RAE, and clerical and catering personnel. The Army Nursing Service (AANS) and the Voluntary Aid establishment was brought up to strength mainly with local men Detachment (later the Medical Women's from Bungendore, Queanbyan, Goulburn, Lake Bathurst and Service (AAMWS). the A.C.T.. These men joined the RMC staff as RMC Special Enlistments, although the normal procedures such as criminal Women of these three Services took over many of the roles record clearance and medical and dental examinations were within the RMC to release fit soldiers for active service, carried out. The Commandant of the RMC had powers similar although by 1943 there were a number of the RMC other rank to that of a General Officer Commanding a Command [e.g. staff who were deemed to be key personnel and held at Eastern Command]. The interviewing officer for each applicant Duntroon despite having enlisted in the AIF. Among the was the Quartermaster; the final attestation being the Special Enlistees there were cases where a soldier remained at responsibility of the Lieutenant Colonel In Charge of the RMC for up to 28 years, rising slowly through the ranks as Administration. Successful applicants were enlisted in the vacancies occurred, until the rank of warrant officer class I was Permanent Military Force (PMF). reached. Many others became sergeants and warrant officers by the time they were discharged or, rarely, posted elsewhere. These RMC Special Enlistment soldiers were given recruit When the War of 1939-45 ended some of the Special training during the leave breaks of the Corps of Staff Cadets. Enlistment soldiers were sent back to the RMC for Their trained-soldier courses were conducted by the main demobilisation, or were offered positions at the College at the sections of the College such as Cavalry, Artillery, Engineers rank held by them in the AIF. and catering, clerical, grounds staff and transport. Those One interesting enlistment was an Irishman who had been a allotted to transport were specially trained and in 1942 when soldier on the Indian North West Frontier. He came to the 'horse era' ended, the drivers and Cavalry staff were Australia where he first worked as a roustabout in a shearing retrained as Bren Gun Carrier and tank drivers. Each soldier in shed, then became a shearer, a tramp and a farm worker. transport held licences for all types of vehicles including motor Eventually he came to the RMC and became one of the Special cycles. Enlistments as a cook. before rising to the rank of corporal cook and later a drill sergeant. [Sergeant (Paddy) Hawkins When war was declared in 1939, the RMC Special who, on his discharge from the Army became a Enlistees became members of the PMF enlisted under Commonwealth Policeman at Government House, Australian Imperial Force (AIF) conditions. One of these was, Yarralumla.] of course, that pay commenced at five shillings (51-) per day. [$7.10 at present values]. Original Army numbers were The College staff was very much a family affair. There were allotted at the RMC but when the Special Enlistees transferred brothers - four Simpsons, three Brogans, two Warks, two to the AIF an original number like NP 4865 became NX (P) Flanagans, two Cregans, two Bymes, two Smiths, two 4865. McMillans, two Shuttleworths plus their father, and so the list Driver WarkS bus. There were three ---,'C of these buses on strength in 1940, having been brought from Sydney in Rc. 1937. By 1945 they had been replaced mostly by vehicles consisting of a box-like cabin mounted on a Dodge truck chassis.

goes on. During the War of 1939-45 and immediately following it, married quarters were very scarce so, to help relieve the shortage, the Cavalry sick lines, the farrier's shop and other small buildings were converted into living quarters for grateful married staff members. At the same time the RMC other ranks did well at sport in the local area. Members played in ACT First Grade Cricket, ACT First Grade Hockey and Rugby and in the ACT Tennis Tournament.

Major (QM) W.J.(Wally) Wark became an RMC Special Enlistment on I April 2940, two years after his brother, Dudley Wark. He began as the Commandant's (Brigadier E.E Harrison) driver but, in 1941, he enlisted in the AIF where his Army number was changed from NP 7706 to NX(P) 7706. In 1946 he returned as a sergeant to the RMC and became Transport Sergeant. By early 1961 he had been the Sergeant Q Clerk, the WO 2 in the RMC Q Store responsible for the Trust Account and Academic Text Book Libraly and, as a WO I, the Chief Clerk at HQ RMC. In 1961 he became the Chief Clerk at HQ N Comd but returned the following year to the RMC whence he attended a QM course and was commissioned as a lieutenant (QM). Postings in Tasmania and Victoria followed but in 1969 he became the QM at AHQ and, later, Army Office from where he retired in 1977 as a major(QM). His total service of 37 years included some 22 years at the RMC where he became acquainted with hundreds of graduates - acquaintances that were renewed many times during his later service, particularly his last eight years at AHQ and Army OfJice.

Having delivered their bus loads of staff cadets to Casula in 1940, Drivers McCarthy, McGee & Wark take in the sights of Sydney. Fifty Years On

Fifty years ago, less two days, these men were part of the Class that lined the terrace in almost the same spot under the RSM, 'Fungo' Watson, to be given a display of drill by the two senior Classes on the 'Square'. This time, under the Class Orderly, Major General D.M. (David) Butler, they parade again but to lay a wreath at the Memorial Stone.

Of the 55 who entered the RMC on 23 February in 1946,43 morning. The service included an Act of Remembrance for survive and 34 of them, including two of the four from New those of the Class no longer with us - a very moving Zealand, gathered at University House on Thursday 22 February experience. 1996 to begin celebrating the 50th Anniversary of that entry. There were some who had seen very little of Canberra since Including the wives, widows, partners and family members (one leaving Duntroon and, among the widows, there were those from England) who soldiered on with them, there was a total of who were seeing it for the first time. They, and others so 72 at the reunion. inclined, were given a guided tour of the Anzac Parade Next day - THE DAY - began with a tour of the College, Memorials and the War Memorial, followed by an afternoon to included in which were a number of memory-jogging events view the sights of Canberra or to take their ease. such as examining the personal records from those hectic far-off The culmination of the reunion was the dinner at the days. After lunch in the Harrison Room of the Corps of Staff Commonwealth Club that evening. Fellowship, recollections Cadets' Mess, during which a presentation was made from the aplenty, fun and a tinge of regret at the impending parting of Class to the Corps of Staff Cadets, the afternoon was taken up the ways intermingled to make an occasion that the Class will with a briefing and a tour of the Australian Defence Force always remember and savour. To allow leisurely farewells a Academy - a new experience for many of the ex-staff cadets and final gathering was held next day with a barbeque at 'Melrose others in the group. Valley'. It was a pleasant, but somewhat sad ending to what For many, the highlight of the reunion was the Ecumenical had been a memorable, touching and thoroughly enjoyable Church Service in the Memorial Chapel of St Paul on Saturday occasion. On these steps 50 years ago, the young men in the Class photograph were in brand new uniforms and there were a few more ofthem.

Oficer commanding Alamein Company, Captain S.J. Schnaars (1983), briefs the Class of 1946 on some differences and similarities of life in the barracks in 1996. In the background, one of the major changes is exemplified as the General Reserve Full Time Commissioning Course rehearses for its graduation the following day. Branch Reports

New South Wales A total of 34 Members and partners enjoyed themselves at a cocktail party at the Officers' Mess, Victoria Barracks on 29 The annual Graduation Luncheon, together with the Biennial February 1996. There was a pleasing number of new 'attendees'. General Meeting, was held at the Officers' Mess, Victoria Barracks, Paddington on Tuesday, 12 December 1995. In South Australia glorious sunshine, but with a wind to blow one's socks off, 50 Members attended despite the absence of some classes holding The Graduation Luncheon was held on Tuesday, 5 functions at Duntroon. December 1996, a week before Graduation. Some 26 Members A Regular Army Officers' Luncheon Club has been enjoyed the camaraderie of this popular function, held in the established by Lieutenant Colonel B.R. Tinkler (1951) and Officers' Mess, Keswick Barracks. Major G. Ball. The club meets at the Royal Automobile Club The Mildura activity on 15-17 March 1996 is covered in a (RAC) on the first Friday of each month. All Members of the separate report. Duntroon Society, including those who may be visiting Sydney, are welcome to attend. Booking may be made directly with the Western Australia RAC by telephone on (02) 233 2355 up to the Wednesday before the event. The Branch luncheon was held on 21 March 1996.

New Zealand

Auckland Sub-branch held a Graduation Day Luncheon at the Remuera Golf Club which was attended by 40 Members and wives. On the Sunday before Graduation, 35 Members and wives of the Wellington Sub-branch gathered at the Trentham Camp Officers' Mess for their traditional luncheon. Corrections For the sixth year in succession, a successful golfing weekend was held at Taupo during the weekend of 24-25 The following errors appeared in Newsletter 2/1995: February 1996. The event attracted Members from Auckland, Wellington and the Bay of Plenty. p. 3. Photograph caption, third line. The entry year of J.McL. Ross should read, (1945). Queensland p. 5. Obituary. The entry year for Major General Poananga On 1l October 1995 Brigadier S.V.L. Willis (1967), then the should be (1944). Commandant of the RMC, was a guest and speaker at a black-tie dinner held at the Officers' Mess, Victoria Barracks. p. 6. Formation of RMC Ski Club, 1951. First para of A small group spent a most enjoyable weekend (21-22 narrative, fifth line. The appointment is Assistant October) at Noosa. One feature of it was a cocktail party at the Director of Works. home of Colonel W.B. (Bert) Wansley (1939) and his wife Audrey. p. 7. Photograph caption at the foot of the page, last line. Society Members were the guests of the Commander 1st Attribution should read, (Allan Limburg Photograph). Division during an Open Day at Enoggera on 24 November 1995. The theme for the visit was the Ready Reserve and p. 8. Shorts. Third para, last line. The years should be, 1970- Members had the opportunity to speak to a number of Ready 80. Reserve soldiers, in addition to various briefings and 'hands on' weapon's familiarisation. Following a light lunch in the Division p. 13. Letters to the Editor. Third para, second line. The name Officers' Mess, the Branch AGM was conducted. is Donogh MacCarthy-O'Leary. Addresses Needed

Mail addressed to the following Members has been Mr D. Lee returned to the National Secretary and contact has been lost. Flying Officer J.D. Lee Any assistance in tracing these Members would be greatly Major I.R. Lillie appreciated. Lieutenant Colonel G.M.M. MacDonald Lieutenant J.J. McKenzie Captain P.S. Ashwin Brigadier K.L. MacPherson Major General D.S. Baldwin Lieutenant Colonel F.J. Markrow Lieutenant M.I.B. Batka Mr R.G. Marlan Mr J.W. Black Mr K.J. McGhee Brigadier R.E. Boxall Major L.F. McIntosh Captain Y.T.K. Brice Lieutenant Colonel R.J.S. Munro Major J.L.K. Cairns Major G.F. Nicholas Colonel F.S. Carrington Major J.A. Oliver Lieutenant Colonel A.L. Casey Captain C.W. Paine Lieutenant M. Clark Lieutenant Colonel A.R. Pearson Lieutenant A.D. Cliffe Captain D.W. Phillis Captain A.C. Cortes Lieutenant I.J. Pickett Major D.A. Creagh Lieutenant B.J. Pifins Mr J.A. Darragh Captain S.P. Porter Lieutenant M.N. Dood Major D.J. Rogers Mrs E.M. Eather Lieutenant P.D. Rogers Mr M.J. Fogarty Brigadier W.D. Rolfe The Honourable Mr Justice N.W. Fox Lieutenant C.R. Sadler Lieutenant S. Godfrey-Smith Mrs A. Sewell Major R. Gray Lieutenant Colonel J.D. Shaw Lieutenant Colonel R.H. Greville Lieutenant Colonel R.W. Shoebridge Lieutenant D.R. Groves Lieutenant L.A.J. Smith Lieutenant D.F. Hartigan Brigadier A.H. Smith Lieutenant Colonel S.G. Heaton Major K.N. Stacey Captain D.G. Henchcliffe Lieutenant Colonel P.A. Stokes Colonel D.J. Herlihy Mr C.B. Symon Mrs C. Hone Lieutenant Colonel E.W.G. Thomson Captain P.L. Hughes Colonel R.N. Upton Lieutenant J.E. Huston Lieutenant Colonel R.R. Warfe Major J.M. James Lieutenant A.M. Wears Major S. Joske Lieutenant Colonel E.R. Willis Major P.F. Kiriea Lieutenant Colonel L.R. Wilson Lieutenant J.M. Lawson Captain M.C.Y. Wong Where Fred's Tree once stood in all its splendoitr is now the site of the new OfJicers' Mess dining room.

Coming Events

New South Wales Branch Open Day

Monday, LO June 1996. (Queen's Birthday Weekend).The During 1996, Duntroon House is being refurbished so no annual buffet and race-day at the AJC's Randwick Racecourse. Open Day will be held. ACT Members who are interested in attending are requested to contact Brigadier J.G. (Garth) Hughes (1953) on (06) 286 2683.

Queensland Branch

Sunday, 23 June 1996. Winemakers' Luncheon at the Lyrebird Restaurant. August 1996. Black-tie dinner with guest speaker. November 1996. Enoggera visit and AGM.

South Australia Branch

Tuesday, 3 December 1996. Graduation Luncheon at the Officers' Mess, Keswick Barracks.

RMC Ceremonial Parades

Saturday, 8 June 1996. The Queen's Birthday Parade. Tuesday, 16 July 1996. The Ready Reserve First Appointment Course Graduation Parade. Tuesday, 10 December 1996. The Graduation Parade. Further information can be obtained from the SO3 (Ceremonial), Captain K.W. Scheuermann. on (06) 275 9539. In March 1996 work was begun to renovate Durztrouri House and build a mujor extension to it. A scale nzodel has been constructed to shocv the,fi'nal result. This view, from the front, depicts the new dining room on the lefr with the additional accornmodation behzncl it. Hud it not chosen its own demise, Fred? tree would have hud to be forcibly removed.

This oblique of the rnodel is froin the rear qf the conservatory. Most of the new construction is seen in the upper right oj the photograph and is planned for completion in October 1996. This, together with the refurbishment of Duntroon House, will cost approxirnately $4 million. Annual Postal Golf Conlpetition

Last year's report of this 'Tradition' mentioned that 'The 7th: Queensland (182) R.M. Millar (1961) Trophy' had rebounded to New Zealand from Canberra. With At Royal Queensland N.J. Mcguire (I 950) tongue firmly in cheek it was suggested that 'The Trophy' Golf Club L.R. Greville (1944) followed M.J. (Mike) Dudman! This was obviously inspirational Thursday, 30 November R.B. Bishop (1961) stuff as the Kiwis have done it again with Mike Dudman malung 1995 B.G. Bond (1957) a huge contribution. The gods were obviously with them in 1995 Weather must have been I.M. Hunter (1 939) as their first effort during November was washed out by rough ! R.A. Clarke (1947) torrential rain which closed the course. They came back with a B. Wade (1953) rush. Congratulations to the Kiwis. 8th: A.C.T. 'B' (123) T.A. Gee (1958) At Royal Canberra Golf A warning to all participants during 1996. There are a large D.A. Vickers Club A.J.F. McDonald (1942) number of 'Super League' players in Canberra who may be Monday, 27 November S.S. Agnew recruited to the ACT Team! 1995 Fine and warm. Team event results were: Individual Scores were: I st: New Zealand (205) M.J. Dudman (1956) At Helensville Golf R.J. Andrews First M.J. Dudman (NZ) Club J.R. Clarke (1946) Second D.J. Gilroy (Vic) Friday, 15 December B. Meldrum (1956) F.C. Lehman (ACT 'A') 1995 R.K.G. Porter ( 1943) Heavy drizzle, clearing G.A. Hitchings (1949) Four Ball Best Ball scores were: to very humid.

I st: New Zealand (47) M.J. Dudman 2nd: A.C.T. 'A' (200) F.C. Lehman (1 957) J.R. Clarke At Royal Canberra Golf D.K. Baker (195 I) Club R.A. Sunderland (I 950) 2nd: A.C.T. 'A' (0.c.b.) 1.R. Smith Monday, 27 November I.G. Porteus (I95 1) D.K. Baker 1995 I.R. Smith (I 954) (45) Fair and warm. D.M. McDonagh ( 1957) W.J. Henderson (I 954) 3rd: A.C.T. 'A' (45) F.C. Lehman R.E. Rooks (1951) I.G. Pol-teus

3rd: S.A. (192) A.J.B. Forbes (1941) Unfortunately the N.S.W. team played as part of a Services Day At Royal Adelaide Golf G.A. Fry (1952) a1 Avondale and were distributed throughout the field and thus Club D.W. Chapman not able to enter four ball scores. New players are always Thursday, 20 April Sir Donald Dunstan (1940) welcome. If you are interested in joining the Duntroon Society I995 J.E. Duff (1948) and/or playing in this major golf event, contact one of the Fine day with light P.O.G. Forbes members of the Match Committee listed below: breeze. D.L. Burzacott A.C.T. A.L. (Alan) Vickers 4th: N.S.W. (190) R.H. Magnussen (1956) (06) 295 0663 (H) At Avondale Golf Club A.T. Pembroke (1947) (06) 247 4459 (W) Saturday, I1 November R.S. Fotheringham (1942) N.S.W. B.A. (Bruce) Andrews 1995 C.C. Sanders (1965) (02) 349 367 1 (H) Fine, hot and a lot of flies. E. Poultney New Zealand R.K.G. (Ralph) Porter G.W. Grimsdale (1956) 33 Coldham Cres. St John's Park 5th: A.C.T. 'C' (187) J.H. Townley (1951) Auckland 5 At Royal Canberra Golf G.A.B. Turner New Zealand Club D.F.W. Engel (1 944) Queensland R.B. (Ross) Bishop Monday, 27 November W.J.S. Gordon (1941) (07) 268 1 127 (W) 1995 A.L. Morrison (1 945) (07) 268 195 1 (H) Fine and warm. J.D. Harveson (1953) S.A. J.A. (Alex) Clark R.A. Hay (1937) (08) 272 5968 (H) A.L. Vickers (I 957) Victoria A.M. (Tony) Stove (03) 592 6294 (W) 6th: Victoria (I 83) D.J. Gilroy (1955) At So~~entoGolf Club D.M. Butler (1946) W.A. C.J. (Colin) Purcell Friday, I December 1995 A.M. Stove (I 960) (097) 9 1 1 530 (FAX) Fine and pleasant. J.A. McGreevy (1948) 12 played, including G. Hollings (1 946) Congratulations to the winners and to all who participated in the four wives. J.W. Burns (1948) event in 1995. The Tradition continues in 1996.