September 2015 THURUNKA 1

THURUNKA September 2015 Newsletter of the Royal Australian Signals Association (NSW) Inc. Patron: MAJGEN R.P. Irving AM PSM RFD (Retd) Including the Aust. Lines of Communication Signals Association

Acting President & Secretary: Treasurer: Editor: Senior Vice President: Mr M. (Mike) McEvoy Mr R. (Rob) Mills Mr K. (Ken) Forway Mr N. (Norm) McMahon 13 Milner Street 3 Contentin Road 33 Oaks Avenue 288 Kissing Point Road MOSMAN NSW 2088 BELROSE NSW 2085 LONG JETTY NSW 2261 TURRAMURRA NSW 2074 Phone: (02) 9968 1777 Phone: (02) 4333 4969 Phone: (02) 9144 2645 Mobile: 0418 489 703 Mobile: 0418 646 734 Mobile: 0402 373 494 (& Aust L of C Sigs Ass’n Rep) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Our Calendar - 2015 In this edition ER Corps Luncheon) Fri 30 Oct 1200h Kirribilli Club Association Matters • President’s Report Annual Memorial Service Sun 08 Nov 1100h Signal Hill Vaucluse • Your Ass’n needs your help Annual General Meeting Sun 08 Nov 1230h Paddington RSL Club • Donation - Gallipoli Tour Remembrance Day Wed 11 Nov 1100h Cenotaph Martin Place Recent Events Rhumb Corps Luncheon Wed 02 Dec 1200h CTA Club • Battle for Australia - 2105 *Committee Luncheon Sun Dec 13 1200h Mosman • COL Coyle - RASigs THURUNKA A December edition early-December Coming Events • ER Corps Dinner - 2015 * TBA Dates/details to be announced. ** TBC Dates/details to be confirmed. • AGM & Memorial Service NB: Dates and other details of events may change. They are constantly reviewed VALE/Sick Parade in an attempt to advise changes to members in a timely manner. Corps matters • RASigs Reunion Yarra Valley Royal Australian Signals Association (NSW) Inc. • 50th Anniversary Long Tan RASigs Reunion Vietnam Your Committee Needs YOU! FYI includes See ASSOCIATION MATTERS inside for full details - NOW • The Lounge Suit • Aus Svc Medal Clasp CT/SR • Jack the Rooster RASigs • Lofty Barry Logan's Plaque • Kokoda Trek Eastern Region Military History Corps Dinner • Governor’s Speech Tail-end Charlie Combined Offr/ Annual General Meeting • The Bushmaster Sgts function See details inside details inside Next edition Copy for the next edition Of THURUNKA must be in Annual Rhumb Corps The hands of the Editor Memorial Luncheon Mr K Forway 33 Oaks Avenue Wednesday, 2nd December, 2015 Service LONG JETTY NSW 2261 D R Davey Lounge Signal Hill, Or by e-mail: Vaucluse. CTA Club Sydney [email protected] details inside Cnr Castlereagh Street & NO LATER THAN Martin Place 13th November 2015

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 2

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw

irst, given the number of apologies for the planned Last year instead of the Eastern Region Corps Dinner it was meetings on 21st March and 25th July 2015, we did decided to hold a Luncheon which was held in the President F well to conduct the meetings in the virtual medium of the Upper House’s dining room at NSW Parliament of e-mails. I submitted the Minutes of those meetings for House. We were fortunate to be able to enjoy that venue confirmation. thanks to MAJ Charles Casuscelli RFD, who as a sitting MP was able to host the luncheon. Unfortunately we are not I have recently discovered a worth-while book on the history able to enjoy that venue this year. Staff of the 145th Signal of radios used by the Australian Army, called ‘Wireless at Squadron is organising the luncheon. War – Developments in Military and Clandestine Radio 1895-2012” published by Rosenberg Publishing, available Looking further forward, on Sunday 8th November will be from the Australian War Memorial. See an article in the the Annual Memorial Service at the Signal Station, Signal September edition of THURUNKA which links some of the Hill, Vaucluse, just north of Macquarie Lighthouse. The Corps history in that book to the Waterloo Dinner held at Service will commence at 1100 hrs. Please come along to ANZAC Cove this year to which your Association made a join in and remember those of the Corps who have gone be- donation. fore us. On Wednesday 2nd September, along with Norm McMahon Following the Memorial Service, the Association’s the An- and Ken Forway and a couple of the Lines of Communica- nual General meeting will be held. The AGM will open at tion members, I attended the Battle for Australia (BforA) 1230 hrs. We generally drive from the Memorial service to Commemoration. The fly-past by the RAAF was a Hercules the Paddington RSL have a quiet little drink before the 130, a bit of a change from the Hornets of the past that zoom AGM and then get together for lunch in the Club bistro. above Martin Place so fast you miss them. This year the During the year the RA Sigs Association in South Australia Association was “promoted” to the southern side of the has been attempting to get their dormant website up and run- Cenotaph, with most of the dignitaries. The Governor of ning as a National website. So far, without not much pro- NSW, His Excellency General The Honourable David gress. In the meantime your Association has created its own Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d) gave the address and it is one well website to keep you informed on current and future events worth reading. As your representative I was invited to lay a as well as having a presence of Facebook. Have a look at tribute at The Cenotaph. The BforA Association eschews http://rasigsassociationnsw.weebly.com/ and our Facebook the traditional wreaths on the basis of cost and waste so pro- page rasansw. vides a sprig of wattle for anyone who wants as a tribute to the memory of the fallen. Certa Cito. Upcoming is the RA Signals Eastern Region Corps lunch- Mike eon at the end of October. Elsewhere you will see details of the luncheon, to be held at The Kirribilli Club. All members Mike McEvoy of the Association are invited to attend, at your own cost. Acting President

Jason Warde 8 Sig Regt Welcome to our new members. We trust Matt Webb ex-301 Sig Sqn that you all have a long and progressive Peter Sigal ex-402 Sig Regt membership in RASigs Ass’n (NSW). Mal Rothe ex-1 Sig Regt

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 3

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw

Royal Australian Signals Association (NSW) Inc. Your Association needs your help As stated in the last edition of THURUNKA, your committee needs revitalising to stay in touch with to-day’s trends and pro- gress. We are already on Facebook and developing our own website. So we are keeping up with social media. BUT, we are wearing out our current committee members, who, quite frankly, are finding it harder, not necessarily to keep up with technology as to keep up with life itself. These committee members have served the Association and its members well for decades. For many of them, age and other commitments are overtaking them. There are already key vacancies and a number of the current committee members have indicated they will be standing down at the AGM in November. Unless members take an active interest in the management of the Association and are prepared to serve on the committee, the Association is likely to fold and it could be as early as the next AGM. Accordingly we would welcome expressions of interest from our membership to stand for the following positions, for which a brief position description is provided. Detailed position descriptions can be obtained from Mike McEvoy or Chris Ballantine. President: The member will have contemporary service in the Corps at a senior supervisory or management level. They will be computer literate; have the ability to effectively represent the Association at public functions and Corps activities; have a good understanding of the principles of corporate governance and be committed to the effective man- agement of the committee and the Association in general. Vice President: The member will have a similar background and expertise as the President and assume the role in the absence of the President. The Vice President should understudy the President and aspire to that position in the fullness of time. Treasurer: The member will be, ideally, a qualified accountant or an experienced book-keeper; be computer literate; to maintain the financial records which are subject to audit; bank all monies received and pay all approved accounts in a timely manner; manage the sale of merchandise and prepare financial reports annually and for all committee meetings. If you are interested in the position a spreadsheet is available to record all transactions and report the financial records. Committee Member: Attend committee meetings; provide advice on matters within their area of expertise; undertake special projects and serve on sub-committees; assist in the administration of the Association and at activities such as ANZAC Day. There is room for more than two more committee members. The committee meets about every six weeks, currently on a Saturday at the Kirribilli Club and the time commitment will depend on the position held. Generally 1-2 days per month would be required to be devoted to Association duties albeit that some months are free of Association activities. What to do? If you are interested in standing for the committee please contact the Acting President/ Secretary, Mike McEvoy on 0418 489 703 or at [email protected]. Turn up at the AGM on the 8TH November at 1230hrs at the Paddington RSL and have your say and become part of your association’s future. We look forward to seeing you there and keeping your Association alive! If you are interested in standing for the committee please contact the Acting President/Secretary, Mike McEvoy on 0418 489 703 or at [email protected]

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 4

Donation - Gallipoli Tour We were invited to attend the Royal Australian Engineers’ Waterloo Dinner, but, unfortunately, we had to decline. The Dinner was conducted at ANZAC Cove on 18th June, to coincide not only with the date of the Battle of Waterloo, but also the completion of Watson’s Pier at ANZAC Cove in 1915. (The pier was named after Lt Stan Watson, the supervising engi- neer and a Sigs Offr; mentioned in an article in the December 2014 edition of THURUNKA). The matter of the invitation was discussed at the March Committee Meeting but, unfortunately, no one from the Committee was able to attend to represent the Association. It was then suggested that the Association should mark the occasion and the best way to do this was to donate towards the toasting wine for the official toasts; the sum of $150 was suggested. This was voted upon and carried. The donation was forwarded to the RAE Waterloo Dinner Committee. Below are only three of the many e-mails exchanged....ED.

The invitation: the Waterloo Dinner on the beach at From: Limmer, Deane LTCOL ANZAC Cove. We hope this, in the 23 April 2015 absence of a representative from our

GALLIPOLI TOUR Association, will help cement the links

Ladies and Gentlemen, between our Corps. Hopefully, some Australian red or port can be acquired A few years ago, some members of for the toast with the donation. the Royal Australian Engineers and Regards, their Association commenced planning Mike McEvoy for a Centenary Gallipoli tour. They decided to go in June as it would be Acting President

quiet and the 18th of June represented Royal Australian Signals Association the date of the inaugural Waterloo (NSW) Inc. Dinner on the beach at ANZAC Cove. The RAE Association has enquired The Thank-you. about an RASigs attendee; however it From: Limmer, Deane LTCOL would be on a self-funded basis. 12 June 2015

I am writing to enquire if there is To: 'Michael McEvoy' interest within the RASigs Association Lt Stan Watson, right, supervising the RE: GALLIPOLI TOUR for a member who may wish to attend building of the pier. Note the pile-driver. Dear Mike, to represent the Corps. I am not sure if I wanted to thank you and the mem- any of the RASigs Associations may Our Response wish to financially support this tour. bers of the NSW Branch of the Asso- From: Michael McEvoy ciation for their generosity of the dona- Kind regards 30 April 2015 tion to mark the Waterloo Dinner. Deane Limmer To: 'Limmer, Deane LTCOL' RE: GALLIPOLI TOUR Thank you. Lieutenant Colonel Deane, Deane Limmer Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Defence Force School of Signals/ Our Committee has approved the Commanding Officer Deputy Head of Corps donation of $150 towards a toast to Defence Force School of Signals both the RAE and RASIGS Corps at Do not forget our AGM The timing and venue are planned to Please refer to the attachment at the follow previous years; 1230hrs at the rear of THURUNKA for the Agenda for The date of the Association’s AGM is Paddington RSL club, cnr Oxford the AGM (with Nomination Form) and set for Sunday, 8th November, 2015. Street and County Avenue, Paddington the Financial Statement. (opposite Victoria Barracks).

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 5

Battle for Australia Day - 2015 Commemorative Service - Sydney

he Battle for Australia Com- The Service was attended by His Ex- memoration, Sydney, was con- cellency General The Honourable T ducted at the Cenotaph, Martin David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d), The Place on Wednesday, 2nd September, Governor of New South Wales, and 2015 commencing at 1100hrs. over 500 veterans, family, friends, sup- porters and general public. Although The Commemoration is held to honour numbers may be down from previous those who served on land and sea and years, it is over 70 years since the war in the air repulsing the direct threat to ended and it is expected that the ranks Australia in 1942-1945. The Com- have depleted. memoration includes the Lines of Communication Association members, The Master of Ceremonies was Mr who used to hold their own Com- David Cooper OAM and the Chaplain memoration on 19th February for the was Naval Chaplain Thi Lam. The Bombing of Darwin, now included in Welcoming address was given by MA- the Battle for Australia Commemora- JGEN Warren Glenny AO RFD ED tion at the Cenotaph. Those who are CSTJ, President of the Battle for Aus- left will never forget. tralia Association NSW Inc. The term ‘Battle for Australia’ was His Excellency, The Governor of New first used by Prime Minister John Cur- South Wales, was led by Pipers from tin in an address to the nation on 18th The Scots College. His Excellency February, 1942. When the war ended gave the Address, which is included in many ships, squadrons and army units the Military History section of this edi- commemorated those actions specific tion of THURUNKA. to themselves. Such occasions tended weather, was of no concern to the gen- to fragment commemorations, with The choir was From Andrews Cathe- eral attendee. some units receiving greater emphasis dral School and the Ode to the Fallen Our President did lay a sprig of wattle than others. In more recent times vet- was given by two students from Tempe on behalf of our Association. erans have felt that what is needed is High School. The Catafalque was one major commemoration to honour from HMAS Waterhen and the Band After the conclusion of the Battle for all service and sacrifice in the defence was from the NSW Police Service. Australia Commemoration we retired of Australia. In August 1998 a na- The weather was kinder than in previ- to the CTA Club for Rhumb Corps tional committee was formed to con- ous years, neither wet nor windy, but Luncheon and discussed the events of sider the problem this problem and out calm and pleasant as the sun shone the morning and many other topics that of their deliberations the ‘Battle for down on the northern side of Martin came to mind over a great steak and a Australia Commemoration Day’ was Place. The ceremony took longer this good red. approved and is to be the first Wednes- year and may have frustrated the or- Ken Forway day in September each year. ganisers, but, owing to the pleasant

Australian Task Group Afghanistan. Colonel Susan Coyle Rear Admiral Trevor Jones (AUS) is Do not forget our Annual Commander Joint Task Force 633, Af- Memorial Service - 2015. - RA Signals ghanistan. Not the first hen (female chook) to command in Afghanistan as The date of the Association’s Congratulations to our Corps Major-General Simone Wilkie also had Annual Memorial Service is set member....Well done, that person! a senior command in Afghanistan some for Sunday, 8th November, 2015. For your information, RA Signals offi- years ago! The timing and venue are planned cer and former CO 17th Signal Regi- to follow previous years; that is ment, Colonel Susan Coyle, has been Chris 1100hrs for the Memorial Service appointed as the Acting Commander, Chris Ballantine at Signal Hill, South Head.

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 6

The Royal Australian Corps of Signals Eastern Region Corps Luncheon - 2015.

You are invited to attend the 2015 Royal Australian Corps of Signals Eastern Region Corps Luncheon

Hosted in the Water Terrace, Kirribilli Club, Harbourview Crescent, Lavender Bay

Friday, 30th October 2015 12.00 noon for 12:30pm

Join members of the Corps and the Royal Australian Signal As- sociation in a two course meal located on Lavender Bay with stunning views of Sydney Harbour. Annual Memorial Service and Cost $85.00 per person. Beverages, tea and coffee are included. AGM - 2015

Dress The date of the Association’s Annual Memorial Gentlemen: Lounge Suit with Tie and Medals Service and AGM has been set for Sunday, 8th No- Ladies: Day Dress with Medals vember, 2015. The timings and venues are planned to follow previous years; that is 1100hrs for the Parking memorial service at Signal Hill, South Head and Limited parking is available at the Club at a flat rate of $12.00 1230hrs at the Paddington RSL club, cnr Oxford per vehicle Street and County Avenue, Paddington (opposite

Payment Victoria Barracks). Please refer to the attachment at the rear of for the Agenda for the Electronic Transfer THURUNKA Account Name: AGM (with Nomination Form) and the Financial Statement. Royal Australian Signals Association (NSW) Inc. BSB: 112 879 Account No. 126 925 501 If anyone is considering nominating for the com- Reference: Initials and Surname mittee (which is encouraged), please contact the Secretary for a brief on duties and responsibilities. Please include any dietary requirements and confirmation of payment in your reply Yes, it is now time to gather in the one place and find out how our Association has been progressing. Cost of the function is subsidised by the Royal Australian Sig- Remember, it is YOUR Association and YOUR nals Association (NSW) Inc. active involvement at the AGM will help form the

Please Note future of YOUR Association. We will appreciate Association members, who are serving in the Defence Force, your attendance and input to help us plan and con- must be of the rank of Sergeant or above to attend the luncheon. tinue into the future. After the formalities of the AGM, members and RSVP friends, spouses and partners so gathered retire to Monday, 12th October 2015 the bistro bar for light meals and cleansing refresh- LT Elizabeth McFarlane ments. Come along and have YOUR say. E-mail: [email protected]

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 7 told the recruiting officer. Sigs, when I first met him. I VALE John Hyland He told Ern to go back and had just finished my National I have received notification look over the edge of the Service Training and was of the passing of 3791275 wharf. He did so and found a interested in joining a signals John Herbert Hyland 110 Sig Sqn SVN 17/10/1968 vessel ‘not much bigger than unit. - 14/01/1969 a row boat’; that was his Throughout the following ‘ship’. John passed away on 8/9/15 years, Ern and I became good at the Wangaratta Hospital After the war he joined the friends and we enjoyed not Thanks to Mick O'Brien for CMF and rose to the rank of only army life but a very the following notification. Sergeant in NAN Tp in 2 Div good social friendship as Sigs along with such people well. I have just read in local paper from last week that John Her- as Barry Izzard, Jim Spain When Ern raised the US VALE - CAPT Ern Flint bert Hyland passed away and and later, Ken Myers.. He Army Small Ships Associa- th MBE OAM ED (Ret’d) was buried at Benalla on 16 then continued service and tion, he had quite a battle September, 2015. John was a rose to the rank of Captain in with the Australian Parlia- member of 110 Sig Sqn in 8 Sig Regt, where he retired. ment for recognition of the South Vietnam. I had never met John but apparently he Later in life he started the US job done by the members of had been ill for some time. Army Small Ships Associa- that Association during the

tion (USASSA) with a few 2nd World War. His battle Mick other ex-members of the with life was a long one, for Mick O’Brien USASS. The association which he fought long and Via Adam West rose to number over six hun- hard to overcome a lot of 23/09/2015 dred. He ‘fought’ with the health problems. He fought a Australian Parliament to have hard fight but in the end he VALE - Brian Fisher 11th January, 1927 - 3rd July, the members who served in lost the battle Vale - 36776 Brian Robert (Gravel) Fisher 2015, at his home in Coomba the USASS to gain recogni- In conclusion, Ern would Park, NSW. tion of their service to Aus- help when he could BUT, all Malaya 1963-65 It is with great sorrow that tralia during the war. As late he would accept was 104 Sig Sqn SVN 07/01/1971 we announce the passing of as this year he obtained the ‘THANK-YOU’. - 30/09/1971 one of our long-serving last award in recognition of I have received notification members, Ern Flint. these members’ service. He Barry of the passing of 36776 Brian also received the OAM for Ern was passionate in what Barry Izzard Robert (Gravel) Fisher. service to the veterans of he did and achieved much in Australia. VALE - Isabella Harding Brian was a long term mem- his life. During WWII he ber of RASigs and the last joined the US Army Small Ern was a driven man, who Isabella the wife of Maj. SSM (total of five) who Ships as an apprentice sea- could be difficult at times Dave Harding (Ret’d), died served with 104 Sig Sqn in man and after a month’s and always had his point of on the 7th June. She had South Vietnam. Also its training was posted to vessels view and wanting to share it been in a nursing home with SSM on returning to Austra- used to take supplies to the with you. But he was a gen- dementia for many years. I lia, getting the unit bedded pacific islands for the allied erous man and would do any- am passing this on to you so down - back into the peace forces and bring back the thing he could to help you. you can inform those ex- time Army. He went on to wounded and dead. He was officers who served with Ern was an asset to Australia be a Corps RSM and his last only 15 or so at the time; this Dave, as they always asked and will be missed by those posting was at the School of would have been one of life’s me how he and Isabella were he touched. Our condolences Signals. In later years he darkest experiences. going. go out to his family, and par- looked after our 104 contact I am sorry to be the bearer of When he signed up at the ticularly Amanda. database and was always sad news. Grace Hotel in Sydney he A few words for Ern. willing to assist members of was sent to wharf 12 at Ern was OC of NAN TP, Bill RASigs, especially 104 guys, Walsh Bay to join his ship. which was attached to an with getting medals, etc. He Bill Jolly When he got there was no Engineer Squadron in 2 Div did a major submission to ship so he walked back and Continued... Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 8 Army in recent years over the VALE – Edward Wiggins Corps and served in Korea VALE - Paul Logan problems of many 103 and 35498 Edward Rex (Rex) and Vietnam. He was a great 1202433 Paul William Logan 104 Sig Sqn members not friend to all who knew him. Wiggins I have received notification receiving the Army Combat He served us well in the Britcom Base Sig Regt JPN; of the passing of Paul. Paul Badge (ACB). Both units Corps. Rest in Peace mate. had cancer of the oesophagus were ‘Combat Arms’, in Bricosat Sig Det Japan; and passed away 1 Jul 15. South Vietnam and the only Commonwealth Contingent Brian Sig Sqn Inchon Korea; Thanks to Steve Hart for let- combat arms units that mem- Brian Macauley AHQ Sig Regt ting us know. bers did not automatically Via Adam West 1st Ind. Inf. Bde Sig Sqn; Paul is survived by his receive the ACB after 90 25/06/2015 days! That submission is still Wireless Tp Type F Malaya/ Daughter Sara; Son, Ben; being addressed (slowly) by Singapore; VALE – Neil Davie Mother, Heather and Broth- Army and will be a lasting 3 L of C Sig Regt; 319379 Neil (Davo) Davie ers David and Alan. legacy to Brian, if successful. 2 Sig Regt; I have received notification Condolences to Paul's RIP Soldier and Friend! 6 Sig Regt; of the passing of Neil (Davo) Daughter: 800 Sig Sqn PNG; Davie from Henry Stephen- Dr Sara Whitburn Denis OC 132 Sig Tp Wewak PNG; son on the RASigs facebook 1/410 Mont Albert Road MONT ALBERT VIC 3127 Denis Hare 110 Sig Sqn SVN; page: 125 Sig Sqn Nth Comd; Condolence messages for Guys I have just been ad- Adam School Of Sigs; Brian's family can be passed vised that Neil passed away Adam West to Mark Fisher (Brian’s son) Army Office Op Branch; and late last week, possibly 03/07/2015 at: [email protected]. D Comms ACT. Thursday. I have contact Thanks to Brian Macauley details for his brother Ian. Thanks to Denis for letting us Sadly, we have lost more for the following notification: RIP mate know. valuable servants of the I have just received informa- Henry Corps and Country. Adam tion from Bill-Lofty- Sned- Adam West don that Rex Wiggins passed Henry Stephenson Lest We Forget 18/07/2015 away on Tuesday night. Rex Via Adam West was a great member of our 06/07/2015

Chris reported... Regards cialist. When asked, the Dr Norm rang me this morning said he would not operate Chris anyway, because of his age, to advise that he is currently in Wahroonga Sanatorium Chris Ballantine to which Norm said: “He suffering from severe bron- 08/06/2015 wouldn’t let them operate anyway”. chitis and a leaking heart Mike reported... valve. This is his second He expects to be moved to I visited Norm at the San to- week in hospital and expects Lady Davidson by week’s day. He was in fine form to be there for at least an- end for another week. He giving the staff cheek. other week. Previously he reckons he can get better had been in Queensland for The bronchitis is his main medical attention there for several weeks, hence his non- worry; he is improving but the bronchitis. cannot seem to quite shake it. Norm McMahon availability. He had some ideas for how He has found a Physio to Our Senior Vice President, Norm advised that he is un- to improve things for the As- properly sort out his back so and Australian Line of able to participate in Asso- sociation i.e. to get new he is more comfortable. The Comms member, Norm ciation matters until further members. two leaking valves in his McMahon, has not been too notice – perhaps not until the heart are relatively normal I look forward to his return to well of late. Here are the AGM. ALoCSA now has for someone of his age (91), our meetings. He certainly reports that we have re- only five veteran members in according to the heart spe- plans to be at the AGM and ceived... NSW. Continued... Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 9 over lunch. Major (Ret’d) Dave Cave WO2 Reg White (Ret’d)

It is good to see you back on has just called me to inform Reg served in the CMF at me that Maj (Ret’d) Ken Lidcombe with 8 Sig Regt. your feet, Norm, and wish He has been reasonably fit Continued... you well and have a speedy Beal is very, very sick with for his age and it appears recovery. Cancer and may not last out would attend the Annual the week. that the stroke may not have Wreath Laying Ceremony if been as severe as it could ED. have been. he could work out how to get Gavin Peter Stanbridge Daughter, Sharon, writes... there by public transport. Gavin Lee Today, Dean Stapleton, Pe- On May 19th my father, Reg Regards, Via Adam West ter’s nephew called and re- White, had a stroke after 22/07/2015 Mike ported that Peter’s condition moving into a nursing home has not changed in three Noel Errol Thwaite in Parkville; he was there Mike McEvoy years. His dementia has not three days. He then spent 110 Sig Sqn SVN 19-08- the next month in hospital 09/06/2015 progressed and he is in a 1968 to 27-08-1969 and rehab. He moved back perpetual state of content- Mike reported again... Thanks to Noel's daughter to Parkville and has been ment. The staff in the retire- Colleagues, for letting us know about her there since. He is getting ment home is taking very stronger physically and I spoke with Norm to-day. father. good care of him. knows he needs to be there. He has been back home for My father has now been ad- His speech has been af- Regards, two weeks after hospital ministered to Palliative Care fected, called Aphasia. He with bronchitis. While in Mike Hospital Gordonvale Qld as does say some things quite hospital they diagnosed two of Wed 10th June 2015. clearly, and then if some- Mike McEvoy thing current he struggles to leaking valves in his heart, Noel received an award for which they are unlikely to 12/08/2015 get the words out. He also 'outstanding soldier' (he was knows he is having trouble. operate on. He is visiting his LTCOL Peter Emery in his early 40s whilst most I find if I write things down doctor tomorrow to deter- Peter is out and about others were in their late he reads and understands mine a plan going forward. I attended the 8th Signal teens/20s). I think he re- quickly; if I say things he He was very pleased not to just can’t comprehend as Regiment Centenary Dinner ceived this award during a have to get from Turramurra quickly. and met up with Peter, ex- parade at Singleton NSW. to Kirribilli on Saturday for I think his speech is a lot CO 8 Sig Regt. He was a helicopter 'gunner' a Committee meeting; just better than back in May, so during his time in Vietnam have a day off. ASIDE...For those who do maybe things will improve not know Peter was the first Aug 1968-Aug 1969 even more, time will tell. Regards, (and only?) CO to command Any correspondence can be He knows now how to use Mike both a Regular Sigs Regt (7 sent to my e-mail address the TV remote but the tele- Sig Regt) and an ARes Sigs which I will relay to my fa- phone is quite another thing. Mike McEvoy Regt (8 Sig Regt) ther. If you wish to send him an e- 14/07/2015 mail, just send to me and I’ll Peter looked well and ap- Thanking you for your assis- ...And the Editor reports... print it off for him. He will peared quite his usual self. tance get a kick out of that. Norm attended the Battle for He did say that he was not a Australia Day Commemora- hundred percent but steadily Deborah Sharon tion Service at the Cenotaph Deborah Thwaite nd recovering and feeling better Sharon Hedley on the 2 . Although he is than he has for a while. Well-wishes can be for- sharonhedley@ now at home and out and westnet.com.au We wish Peter well and that warded to Noel via: about, he said that he is not he recovers to full strength. Deborah’s e-address: - Sharon, please pass on our the best, but slowly improv- [email protected]; or best wishes to your dad for a ing. He likes to get out and Ken.F The Gordonvale Hospital - full recovery so he can con- keep in touch with his mates tinue to attend ANZAC Day Ken Forway PH: 07 4043 3100 while he can. He attended in Sydney in the future. Adam the Rhumb Corps Luncheon Ken Beal Chris where we shared a bottle of Thanks to Gavin Lee for the Adam West Chris Ballantine good wine and old stories following: 18/06/2015 16/09/2015 Continued... Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 10

RASigs National Reunion 104 SIGNAL SQUADRON Yarra Valley 50th Anniversary Reunion th th 9 to 14 Nov 2016: 28th to 30th May 2016 Wednesday 9th Nov 2016 Saturday 12th Nov 2016 (Saturday to Monday) All attendees and members start - Hire of buses for transport WEEKEND ON THE to arrive in the Yarra Valley, – DVA Grants for events GOLD COAST Get settled into caravan parks and Visit the old area/site of Bal- accommodation, combe Bks for those who want. At Twin Towns Services Club Attend BBQ/meet & greet at Ladies tour of either Chadstone (Coolangatta/Tweed Heads) Healesville RSL, Pick up gift shopping centre or DFO. pack th Formal Dinner – RSL, Winery or The 104 Signal Squadron 50th Anniversary Re- The rest of the day is free for you MCG. union 2016 is being hosted a the Twin Towns to explore the area. Services Club and Resort on the Gold Coast 28th – 6.30pm for 7.00pm start th to 30th May 2016 celebrating 50 years since the Thursday 10 Nov 2016 th Sunday 13 Nov 2016 unit was raised on the 30th November 1965 for Morning to your own devices; or Official parade in Healesville. service in South Vietnam. Shopping for the ladies; or – 12.00pm start Healesville Sanctuary tour; or Full details from the website or the committee. Inspection of Troops by Review- Winery tours. ing Officer, Mayor, RSL, Presi- Reunion Committee 2016 Meet at Greensborough RSL at dent of Association. Denis Hare Ph: 07-5438 7512 3.00pm for BBQ and Drinks, After parade, back to Healesville Mob: 0419-334 535 Dinner? RSL Don Sutherland Ph: 07-3269 8298 www.rsl-greensborough.com Official closing of Re-union Peter Thorne Ph: 07-3285 4823 Mob: 0409-633 353 (03) 9435 1884 Monday 14th Nov 2016 John Bertini Ph: 07-3397 1058 Friday 11th Nov 2016 Hand over to next State Associa- Mob: 0429-491460 – Hire of buses for transport tion for next re-union – DVA Grants for whole day Good-byes and farewells. See Reunion Web Site at: Attend Shrine of Remembrance Everyone heads home. http://2016.au104.org for Tree/Plaque dedication or Re-union e-mail: [email protected] wreath laying. Gavin This dedication should be no Gavin Lee All Correspondence longer than 15 to 20 minutes. President 104 Sig Sqn Reunion 2016 Attend the Shrine for the Remem- RASigs Ass’n (Vic) PO Box 115, Glass House Mountains, brance for the service. 54 Stagecoach Cres Queensland, 4518 Buses back to Simpson Bks for Sydenham Proudly Sponsored by tour of RASigs Museum, DFSS & Melbourne VIC 3037 Signals Vietnam Veterans Association Barracks. H: (03)9390 4171 Queensland M: 0425 722 347 Sgts Mess for BBQ and Drinks in E: [email protected] afternoon

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 11

A Letter from Little Pattie Reunion Patron Little Pattie Dear Veterans, Spouses, Partners, Friends and Members of the Royal Australian Corp of Signals, Hello...... May I introduce myself? My name is Patricia Amphlett, professionally known as Little Pattie. During the last few years, I’ve had the great pleasure of meeting some of you when I have attended and performed at previous reunions. Hopefully I’ll meet you again next year when I attend a very special, huge reunion! The nine-day event in 2016 will take place from 15th to the 23rd Au- gust. Every August is special for Vietnam Veterans, but August 2016 is VERY special. It will be the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. The 18th August, 1966 will always resonate with me; I will never for- get that day. I was just 17 when I was invited by the government of the day to travel to Vietnam and sing for our forces; they were the best audiences in the world. It was during our afternoon concert at Nui Dat on the 18th August that I became aware of the “noisy activity” in the nearby jungle. The Battle of Long Tan had begun. I was evacuated quite quickly. 50th Anniversary Long Tan From the Iroquois helicopter, as we flew over the jungle, I saw thou- RASigs Reunion Vietnam sands of "bright orange lights”, the tracer bullets. We lost eighteen brave young Australians. The next day, when I visited our wounded at the 36th Evacuation Hospital in Vung Tau, I was very moved as I A gentle reminder: listened to our boys’ heart-felt concerns about the plight of their mates, who were still fighting in the jungle. It was then that I began to DON’T FORGET! truly understand why our Australian forces are the best in the world! All signals personnel, past and present, families August 1966, a life changing experience for me. I’ll never forget our and friends, the 50th anniversary of the battle of boys, their smiling faces, their friendliness, and of course their very Long Tan with its nine-day tour/ re-union in hard work under such difficult circumstances. And let’s not forget Vietnam from 15th to 23rd August, 2016 their unique sense of humour! Yes, they will always be my heroes!

Here we are, preparing to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the More information and Registration can be found Battle of Long Tan. I believe it will be a precious time for us all. at Buddha’s place. The e-address is: I will be honoured to share the camaraderie, the mateship, the laughter www.buddhas-place.com and the memories with you all. I look forward to seeing you and of course, singing for you! Other queries can be sent to: Yours Sincerely, [email protected]

Best wishes, Robert Pattie (Little) Pattie Robert “Stretch” Murdoch FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE TOUR/REUNION CONTACK: Secretary 50th Anniversary Tour Vietnam www.buddhas-place.com

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 12

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and ideas and any views expressed in the articles of THURUNKA are those of the contributors and are not necessarily those of The Royal Australian Signals Association (NSW) Inc. or the staff of THURUNKA. Nor are we able to attest to the accuracy of the information so contained. While contributions are welcome not all of them can be published. Those published may be edited for length and clarity. Contributions are acknowledged as from our source, unless otherwise informed. Contributions cannot be returned unless arrangements are made with the Editor prior to or upon submission of the contribution for publication. We encourage contributions and thank those who contribute to the pages of THURUNKA.

The Lounge Suit Australian Service Medal Clasp CT/SR We are seeing more often on invites ‘Dress: lounge suit’ "The Director of Defence Honours & Awards (DH&A), instead of ‘Dress: informal’. Have you wondered what it along with the Defence Honours, Awards Appeals Tribu- meant? Well, here is the definitive description. In line nal (DHAAT) have indicated that the Commander Spe- with the Annual RASigs’ ER Corps Luncheon coming up, cial Operations Command Australia (SOCOMAUST) we include this article to help you with the correct dress if has approved the awarding of the Australian Service you re attending or other such functions in ‘civvies’. You Medal (ASM), Clasp Counter Terrorism and Special Re- may wish to keep this for future reference...ED. covery Duties (CT/SR) for eligible former members of 1 ‘Lounge suit’ is an expression only seen on invitations as Commando Regiment. a dress code. In conversation the terms dark suit or busi- For those former ARA RHQ 1 Cdo Regt members & 126 ness suit or possibly business dress or business attire are Sig Sqn ARA members, particularly the OC and 660 used. Lounge suits are worn for most business events, Signal Troop members and other ARA members who both day-time and evening and for many social events, Supplemented the shortfalls of manning; who were on- such as lunches, receptions, dinner, weddings, christen- call for CT/SRO Duties for at least 60 consecutive days ings and funerals. from 12 Jan 1989 through to 2002, you are invited to A three-piece suit consists of a single-breasted jacket, a apply for the Australian Service Medal Clasp CT/SR single- or double-breasted waistcoat and trousers. When (ASM CT/SR), as a result of your Duties on a range of wearing a single-breasted waistcoat, the bottom button is Australian Joint Service Plans [AJSP]. always left undone. A two-piece suit consists of single- Those RHQ 1 Cdo Regt members who have served on- breasted or double-breasted jacket with trousers (no waist- call from 1981 to the current time are also invited to ap- coat). Belts should not be worn with a waistcoat or ply for the medal. There was a number of former SASR double-breasted suit. Officers, WO and SNCO that are potentially entitled. A shirt with a turndown (not button-down) collar should The positions that have been identified are the following: be worn with a tie and the top button of the shirt must be CO; OPSO; IO; RSM; Int SGT; and CPL CLK. done up. The most versatile tie knots are the four-in-hand and the half-Windsor; large Windsor knots should gener- Applications should hold as much detail as possible and ally be avoided. made through the Defence Directorate of Honours & ...And not forgetting the women....For day-time events Awards. It is highly recommended that your applications women should wear a day dress, trouser suit, or skirt and are submitted ASAP. jacket or coat. A neat, tailored look is best for business, Go to this link to apply: http://www.defence.gov.au/ with length on or just below the knee. Medals/Content/Applications.asp " - See more at: http://www.debretts.com/british- etiquette/british-behaviour/h/dress-codes/lounge- Paul suits#sthash.zotm4Lvd.dpuf. Paul Copeland From the ‘Debretts.com’ website. [email protected] If any female member has any direct enquiry concerning ‘day dress’ for the luncheon, please contact LT Elizabeth McFarlane directly. E-mail: [email protected]; or Mobile: 0400 042 869

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Des Lambley, a member and former secretary of our Association, has written yet another book on military history. Following the success of ‘March in the Guilty Bastard’ this book corrects history by formally compiling those deeds of Signal Services personnel and exposing them to the reading fraternity....ED. JACK THE ROOSTER Lofty Barry This war will live in the memory of man not because of its horrors, but despite its horrors and because of its glories, its revelation of the love and self-sacrifice Logan's Plaque which ordinary men have for their fellow men. The following was posted on Bud- - Pastor LW Baker Adelaide, 24th June 1917 dha's Royal Australian Signals Mes- Near Chuignolles on 25th August 1918, Sapper sage Board by Mike Custance. Findlay was in charge of a wireless station. During Can you help? Mike writes.... the operations four of the wireless men of the for- I was a member of 110 Sig Sqn ex- ward station became casualties. He went forward, 709 Sig Tp [among other postings] re-established the station and adjusted the instru- I would like to speak to anybody ments. Though wounded in doing so he remained who was involved in the making of on duty until telephone communication was estab- the plaque for Lofty Barry Logan lished. that was placed upon the flag pole It was entirely owing to his bravery, initiative and on Logan hill in ‘Vungas’. Plus, devotion to duty that communication by wireless can anybody shed light on its return was maintained at a critical period when other to Watsonia. ISBN: 978-0-9944054-0-1 means had failed. The plaque has been removed and th - Major Gordon 1 Div Sig Coy 15 October 1918. taken to NSW. I am trying to have There are Official War Histories, specific Corps and unit histories and a few it returned to its rightful place. It memoirs by Signalmen, but the Signal Service as a unique group of men has was apparently removed when the been overlooked. CEW Bean even apologised for omitting them from his Regt was moved to Holsworthy. works. This book collects those men for the first time. Jack the Rooster and his Barry, who served with me, was keeper Farrell illustrate that these men were ordinary people doing extraordi- from Victoria and is interred at nary things in war. The several hundred citations for gallantry awards makes Springvale. for compelling reading. They are humbling by their mass. The work tells of His Plaque was placed under a tree leadership and faith in a just cause. They set a wonderful example helping de- outside the No 1 building [The old fend freedoms from tyranny. These men are the antecedents of the Royal Aus- ‘Strad’ building] at Watsonia. I am tralian Corps of Signals. – Author. hoping that it can be returned and It is a fascinating read. - Dr Chris Holt, The University of Northampton, 2015. placed next to Sig McCarthy outside Jack the Rooster is a little gem - a labour of love on the part of the author, well the School of Sigs. I will be con- researched, with interesting things to say about the AIF's Engineer Signal Ser- tacting the RSM of the School for vice. He also makes excellent use of statistical material. It is a most interesting assistance. and valuable piece of history. If anybody can assist me with info, I - Gary Sheffield - Professor of War Studies, Wolverhampton University, 2015 will be most grateful. NOW IN PUBLICATION I can be contacted at: [email protected] This soft-cover, perfect bound 440 page B5 book includes the names and details of 5728 Signal Servicemen. It has tables, illustrations & figures and 800 gal- Mike lantry citations. Mike Custance Commonwealth War Grave information for those who died on active service If you can help, please do not hesi- abroad is also a useful reference. tate to contact Mike. For expressions of interest in the purchase of a copy please e-mail: [email protected] Adam ORDER YOUR COPY NOW! Adam West

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 14

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Army bids farewell to Chief

Airservices Australia and Defence The Chief of the Australian Army, Lieutenant General David Morrison, AO, officially handed over the com- strengthen collaboration mand of the Army at a parade in Canberra on 15 May. Airservices Australia and the RAAF have entered into a After four years as the Army’s Chief, Lieutenant General Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the operation of Morrison has passed command to Lieutenant General Angus Campbell, DSC, AM. Lieutenant General Morri- the Heron remotely piloted Unmanned Aircraft System son expressed his gratitude to his colleagues, friends and (UAS) in Australian civil airspace. Commander of Sur- family for their support during his 36 year career which veillance and Response Group Air Commodore, Chris has included roles in Operation Lagoon in Papua New Westwood, and Airservices Australia’s Executive Gen- Guinea, INTERFET in Timor Leste; Commanding Offi- eral Manager Air Traffic Control, Greg Hood, signed the cer of the Second Battalion, The Royal Australian Regi- MoA at a ceremony in Canberra. “The purpose of the ment (2 RAR), Commander of the 3rd Brigade, and MoA is to set out procedures for Airservices Australia Commander, Forces Command. Lieutenant General Campbell has served as the Commander of the Joint and Air Force to work within, and allows the Heron to be Agency Task Force for Operation Sovereign Borders, safely flown in civil airspace without any significant im- overseen operations in the Middle East as Commander pact on civil air traffic,” Air Commodore Westwood said. Joint Task Force 633 and commanded on operations in The Heron is planned to fly in civilian airspace from Timor-Leste. Lieutenant General Campbell officially Rockhampton Airport in late June, as part of Exercise took command of the Australian Army at 12:01am, Sat- Talisman Sabre 2015. This will be the first time the air- urday, 16 May 2015. Lieutenant General Morrison’s craft has flown outside of restricted military airspace in speech is available at: http://army.gov.au/Our-work/ Speeches-and-transcripts/Chief-of-Army-address- Australia. farewell Newsletter - Issue No. 11 - June 2015 Newsletter - Issue No. 11 - June 2015 Official Newsletter of the Official Newsletter of the Royal United Services Institute New South Wales Royal United Services Institute New South Wales

Chief of Joint Operations... Poppy ...welcomes Australia’s strong partnership with NATO On 21st April, 2015 My wife and I were invited and attended a memorial service at the Blue The Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral David Johnston, has Mountain District ANZAC Hospital situated on recently welcomed the continuing strength of Australia’s partner- the Great Western Highway, Katoomba. ship with the NATO, including, through the ADF, its contribution to the NATO-led non-combat Resolute Support Mission in Afghani- The invitation was because Rachel had knitted stan. During the NATO Chiefs of Defence meeting on 19 and 20 350 poppies to be arranged on the wall at the Hospital. May, Vice Admiral Johnston represented the Chief of the Defence Force at a Military Committee meeting on the Resolute Support Mission. Australia remains one of the largest non-NATO contribu- tors to the Resolute Support Mission, through a contribution of about 400 ADF personnel. This commitment continues to train, advise and assist the Afghan security ministries and Afghan Na- tional Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF). Alongside Finland, Georgia, Jordan and Sweden, Australia was given the opportunity to become an ‘Enhanced Opportunities Partner’ by NATO in October 2014. This status reflects our long-standing contribution in Af- ghanistan and continued commitment to being a valued NATO part- ner. The day was a great success even though the Newsletter - Issue No. 11 - June 2015 weather was extreme; cold, windy and rainy. Official Newsletter of the We were treated to a great day by the Royal United Services Institute New South Wales staff.....Barry Izzard

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Governor’s Speech Just two weeks ago, we com- midget Japanese submarines memorated the 70th Anni- entered the Harbour, and a Battle for Australia Day versary of the Victory in the ship was torpedoed just off - 2nd September, 2015 Pacific, here at the Ceno- Nambucca Heads.[4] taph. His Excellency General The The epic Battle of Kokoda Honourable David Hurley There would have been no was a critical turning point AC DSC (Ret’d), Governor Victory, without the tremen- in the Pacific War when of New South Wales gave dous efforts of our service- Australians fought a monu- this speech at the Battle for men and women to protect mental, rearguard action Australia Commemoration our island nation and the against the Japanese across a Wednesday 2ndSep 2015.... lands of our neighbours to tortuous jungle terrain. the North. Their extreme courage pre- would like to pay my By March 1942, the Japa- vented the enemy's access to respects to the tradi- Port Moresby, within easy tional owners of the land nese held a line from Rabaul I to Singapore, just a few hun- striking distance of our na- on which we gather, the tion. Gadigal people, and all Abo- dred kilometres from the tip riginal and Torres Strait Is- of Australia. We remember, also, with eternal gratitude, the loyalty when everyone looked after lander people who have Soon afterwards, Prime Min- their mates and their served for this nation in ister John Curtin declared: and skill of those Papuan men who played a vital role neighbours, and did their bit every conflict and peace- ‘the fall of Singapore opens to ensure victory. keeping mission in which we the Battle for Australia.’[2] in the battle. They carried supplies forward for the By June 1943, the strength have participated. I espe- Today, we remember and cially honour our Torres troops and then, as the num- of women in service had honour those who directly ber of troops who were grown to approximately Strait Light Infantry Battal- carried the burden of defence ion, almost the entire male wounded or fell sick in- 18,000 in the Australian of Australia through this war creased, carried back to Women’s Army Service, population of the Torres – and the many thousands Strait, who defended Austra- safety those who were un- 16000 in the Women’s Aus- killed in action, wounded or able to walk.[5] tralian Auxiliary Air Force, lia from these islands - and taken prisoner of war. the three war veterans pre- We remember the villagers, 1400 in the Women’s Royal Around 17,000 had died in sented with medals by our dubbed by our Australian Australian Naval Service the War against Japan, serv- Prime Minister this week. men the ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy An- and almost 9000 in the Nurs- ing in Malaya, Singapore, gels’ who carried and treated ing Service. I acknowledge their living Timor, Papua New Guinea, culture and affirm my re- the sick and the wounded In addition, many thousands Rabaul, Borneo, the Solo- along the track. This year of women on the home front spect for their elders, ances- mon Islands and the Philip- tors and descendants. and each year, we welcome worked in government muni- pines, often in the most ap- their representatives to this tions, shipbuilding and air- As Patron of the Battle for palling conditions. commemoration with grati- craft work, transport and Australia Association, I am Eight thousand died in cap- tude and affection. Our na- communications, commerce honoured to be invited to tivity as prisoners of war tion will never forget their and industry and in the rural address you on this national from brutality, starvation and service. sector, with the Women’s day of remembrance [1]. disease. It is also equally important Land Army filling critical On this day, we honour our At home, in 1942 /43, Aus- that we reflect on and hon- labour shortages on our servicemen and women on tralia also faced loss of life our all our women and men farms, ensuring supply of land, on sea and in the air and the threat of invasion. who made their contribution meat, vegetables and fruit. who fought valiantly, along- Darwin, Horn Island in the on the home front –women, Here, in our Harbour, side our allies, from the Bat- Torres Strait and Broome people in science and indus- Cockatoo Island Dockyard tle of the Coral Sea and on were bombed[3], Newcastle try, the working people and became a hive of activity the Kokoda Track until the was shelled, here in Sydney the farmers. It was a time with the conversion of end of the war was declared.

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Military war widows and families That’s what we should pass the “Battle for Australia history • The Returned and Service to our children. Day” was to be a national (continued) League – looking after the It provided the basis for what day of Remembrance, to be repatriated and returning ser- we are today – a united and held on the first Wednesday passenger liners to troop vicemen resilient country. It is no ac- in September. transport and hospital ships cident that since this war, our The Battle for Australia and major repairs to war- • The Australian Army Medical Women’s Services nation has demonstrated an Commemoration Service ships. increasing commitment to the honours those who served on The number of munitions • The Red Cross and the Pacific region, which all in land and sea and in the air factories increased from 4 in Voluntary Aid Detachment our nation, during 1942 to repulsing the direct threat to 1940 to 39 by June 1943. In who all provided medical 1945, worked to protect. Australia in 1942-1945. care and respite services. total over 800,000 women One of the objectives of the [2] Curtin Press Statement were employed in industries Schoolchildren, too, did their Battle for Australia Associa- 15 Feb 1942 which were normally staffed bit - collecting paper, rubber tion is to educate the children - http://john.curtin.edu.au/ by men, yet were paid just a and other recyclables, knit- of Australia about the mo- fraction of their wage.[6] ting socks and collecting broome1942/ mentous events of our na- curtin+pacific.html. Resources and means of pro- items for care packages. tional history between 1942 duction were dedicated to Despite the difficulties and and 1945 … and we thank [3] Over 200 lives lost in winning the war, with John hardships experienced on the the many school children for Darwin, 150 on Horn Island Curtin calling for austerity home front, the Australians their involvement in the Ser- and almost 100 in Broome. measures: of that generation remember vice today … [4] At about 1:35pm off ‘Austerity calls for a pledge this time for its sense of I congratulate the Battle for Nambucca Heads, New South by the Australian people to unity, a time when people put Australia Association for its Wales on 5 May 1943, two strip every selfish comfort- their hand up, worked hard commitment to honour the torpedoes fired from the able habit, every luxurious and pulled together. It was a memory of our servicemen Japanese submarine I-180 impulse, every act, word or case of “All in”. and women, the people of struck SS Fingal on the side deed that retards the victory It was a whole nation effort, Australia, and of our of her hull. Fingal sank march.’ Australians at their best, vol- neighbouring nations. within a minute with loss of unteering and working to- 12 lives. As the world held its breath, Notes gether, putting aside differ- [5] http://www.ww2australia. and families suffered hard- [1] On the 19 June 2008, His ences to look after each other gov.au/asfaras/kokoda.html. ships, dislocations and loss of Excellency, Major-General and our neighbours, on the loved ones, others stepped to Michael Jeffery AC CVO [6] www.australia.gov.au/ home front and to our na- the fore: MC, Governor General of about-australia/australian- tion’s North … • Legacy - looking after the Australia, proclaimed that story/women-in-wartime.

Kokoda Trek/ support we have received into dona- All donations over $2 are tax deductible tions for Soldier-On. So far we have and a receipt is sent out. We update the Soldier-On raised over $1100 and had some gener- link with our training progress so any- Fundraiser ous support from the Vietnam Veteran one interested can see what we're up to. community. https://soldieron.giveeasy.org/ Tamara Meek is doing her bit for Sol- We chose Soldier-On because they sup- campaigns/kokoda-track-october-2015/ dier On. Can you help?...She writes... port serving and ex-serving members of Many thanks in advance, My Dad, Greg Meek, said you might be the defence community. It is a topic able to help spread the word about a close to my heart with Dad having ‘Soldier-On’ Fundraiser my cousin and served in Vietnam and my brother cur- Tamara I are doing. rently serving in the Australian Army. Tamara Meek We are walking Kokoda in October and Anyone interested can donate directly Via Adam West - 02/09/2015 thought we could turn some of the huge to Soldier On via the link below.

Please note: There is no TMI column in this edition of THURUNKA as there is too much information filling its pages. Articles have had to be held over until the next edition of THURUNKA....ED.

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 17 Tail-end Charlie

With a road cruise speed of 100km/h, In August 2006, the Royal Netherlands The Bushmaster - the Bushmaster transports troops, Army placed a contract for 25 Bush- quickly and comfortably and is suitable master vehicles, for operations in Af- infantry mobility vehicle for deployment in complex, diffuse and ghanistan. For speed of deployment, The ‘JLTV’ from Oshkosh Truck Com- lethal operational environments such as the vehicles were supplied from those pany is to replace the ‘Hummer’ in the Iraq. The Bushmaster family of vehi- being built for the Australian Army. In US army and it came across my desk so cles provides high-level protection August 2009, Netherlands placed an I researched it and wrote an article for against anti-tank mines, improvised order for 14 Bushmasters, bringing total THURUNKA. However, it was suggested explosive devices (IEDs), mortar frag- vehicle orders to 86. that maybe we should balance it out ments and small arms fire. In December 2006, the Australian with an article on the replacement vehi- Army ordered a further 143 vehicles. cle for the Australian Army’s Land In August 2007, the procurement of Rover. another 250 vehicles was announced by While researching this vehicle (when I the Australian Army and a further 293 find out its unpronounceable name I vehicles were ordered in October 2008. will do so), I recalled a discussion I had Total procurement for Australia is 737 with another member concerning the vehicles. The Australian Defence BUSHMASTER. This vehicle has been Force placed an order for 101 Bush- in service (combat) in over a decade masters in May 2011. A further order for 214 vehicles was announced in July and is an Australian designed and The vehicle was operationally de- manufactured vehicle from Thales 2012. ployed to Iraq in April 2005 and the (formally ADI). The Bushmaster has an In May 2008, under an urgent opera- US Army and Iraqi defence officials impressive record and I have it on good tional requirement, the UK placed an authority that, although damaged in have expressed interest in the Bush- order for 24 Bushmaster vehicles for battle, there has not been loss of life to master after observing its capabilities deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan. any person in the vehicle. with the Australian Army The 1,000th Bushmaster vehicle was When damaged, the vehicles are re- delivered to the Australian Defence turned to Australia and the damaged Force in June 2013. Bushmaster orders and deliveries assessed and used to improve design. In December 2013, the Jamaica De- The vehicle is then repaired and re- The first of 300 Bushmaster vehicles was delivered to the Australian Army in fence Force placed an order for 12 turned to the frontline. Not many, if Bushmaster vehicles and a five-year any, have been written off....ED. August 2004 and the vehicle was opera- tionally deployed to Iraq in April 2005 support package. Deliveries will com- But read on... and Afghanistan in September 2005. mence in 2015. The Bushmaster 4×4 armoured vehicle Deliveries completed in 2008. Japanese Ministry of Defence placed an is currently deployed in Afghanistan order for four Bushmaster vehicles for with the Australian Army. The Bush- The 500th Bushmaster vehicle was completed in October 2008. its Japan Ground Self-Defence Force master armoured vehicle, developed by (JGSDF) in April 2014. The deliveries Thales Australia (formerly ADI) in In June 2006, the first batch of 152 are scheduled to conclude by end of Australia is in full production at troop transport variants completed de- 2014. Thales's protected mobility systems livery. manufacturing facility at Bendigo, Vic- In February 2006, ADI signed a licens- The Bushmaster is obviously a world- toria. ing agreement with Oshkosh Truck class battle-proven vehicle that has had Corporation of USA to market, manu- acclaims from governments that have The Australian Army has tested the ve- seen the Bushmaster in action in Af- hicle over thousands of kilometres in facture and support the Bushmaster for North American customers and coun- ghanistan, as they have placed signifi- the extreme climatic conditions and cant orders. Who said Australians can- terrain from sub-zero mountain areas to tries eligible for foreign military sales. In January 2007, Oshkosh was awarded not design and build world-class com- desert and tropical conditions in north bat materiel?...ED. Australia. In July 2002, the Australian a contract by the US Marine Corps for Army awarded a contract to ADI for two category II mine-resistant ambush- 300 Bushmaster infantry mobility vehi- protected (MRAP) vehicles based on From http://www.army- cles in six variants: troop transport, am- the Bushmaster. The Bushmaster vari- technology.com/projects/bushmaster/ bulance, direct fire, mortar, engineer ant was withdrawn from the MRAP and command. competition in August 2007.

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 18

FACT SHEET DMO LAND SYSTEMS

General Characteristics Weight: 12,500 kg Length: 7.18 m Width: 2.48 m Height: 2.65 m Crew: 1 - with up to 9 passengers Overall Performance Engine: Caterpillar 3126E Operational Range: 800 km 250 litres of drinking water and a three- fires. There is also a protected emer- day supply of food. gency fuel tank so the vehicle will not Maximum Speed: Run Flat tyres be left stranded. Over 100 km/h The Bushmaster carries one complete Purchasing & Support Armament: spare wheel and all fitted wheels have The DMO is responsible for purchasing Gun ring for 5.56 mm; and run-flat tyre inserts and a central tyre and supporting the Bushmaster PMV 7.62 mm machine guns inflation system allowing them to con- under LAND 116 Project Bushranger. tinue travelling with punctures. It is delivering over 830 PMVs and Mine Protection more than 180 compatible trailers to Overview The Bushmaster uses an armoured V- Army combat units and Air Force Air- The Bushmaster Protected Mobility shaped hull to protect its passengers field Defence Guards. Seven variants Vehicle (PMV) is sustaining jobs in from landmines. The sloped sides on of the Bushmaster have been pur- Australia and saving lives in Afghani- the bottom of the hull act to deflect an chased; troop, command, mortar, as- stan. The locally produced vehicle can upward blast away from the vehicle. sault pioneer, direct fire weapon, ambu- rapidly deploy up to ten battle-ready The external storage bins add extra pro- lance and air defence. troops in all environments and is blast tection for the crew. resistant. Its innovative cabin design Armour For more information about this project gives it the flexibility to serve many The vehicle’s welded one-piece shell is visit www.defence.gov.au/dmo/lsd/ roles. designed to protect troops against all land116/, or search: Troop support small arms fire. Windows also carry Top 30 Projects Bushmaster. The Bushmaster is built to carry and similar ballistic protection. The Bush- sustain a nine-man infantry section, DEFENCE MATERIEL ORGANISATION master’s fuel and hydraulic tanks are www.defence.gov.au with room for one more passenger. It is positioned outside the crew’s compart- Published: February 2012. fully air-conditioned and can store up to ment to protect troops from possible

The AGM is on: Do not forget! This edition of THURUNKA is printed Sunday, 8th November, 2015 on paper kindly donated by Commencing 12:30hrs STAAS Printing Pty Ltd at the Paddington RSL 33-35 Sydney Street, cnr Oxford Street and County Marrickville NSW 2204 Avenue, Paddington 02 9516 2600 (opposite Victoria Barracks).

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 19

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw September 2015 THURUNKA 20

Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw