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Makan No. 215 OFFICIAL JOURNAL 2/30 Bn. A. I. F. ASSOCIATION Subscription Rate: $1.50 per Year Registered for Posting as Periodical: Category A
IN RETROSPECT I suppose that as we get a bit long in the tooth we look back more in retrospect; particularly at our army life which of course made such an impact on us. I have some sad memories of my life in the army, but time is a great healer and most memories I have now are fond and humorous ones. One such instance: the look of consternation on Ossie Jackson's face when he discovered the source of the far away look on Harley Forrester's face at breakfast one morning at Bathurst; Bill Fletcher executing some intricate dance steps at midnight in a hut at Bathurst. His partner? Orderly Officer Len Hendy, who was not amused at all. Remember Len? A certain Platoon Sgt (later C.S.M.) who had portion of 18 platoon doing push ups on the deck of the J.V. Oldenbarnevelt to simulate and expiate some of their (alleged) nocturnal activities the previous right in a certain street in Perth. My old pal Bill Galbraith (of the golden voice and perpetual grin). Bill, of course had a prodigious appetite, as I recall, about number three in the Bn. It was widely accepted that two Captains would beat him. One in particular who used to eat his stew from a dixie lid (the variety that came from a cook house) on manoeuvres of course. I can see Bill now at Jemaluang after the balloon went up, when we occupied a vacated Kampong. He flushed out some poultry and took off after a big rooster, with drawn bayonet, yelling "white meat", and lunging and missing it. He never did catch it. Phil, you mentioned in the last MAKAN that Karl Sinclair was not keeping the best of health nowadays. I worked with Karl on a job in Kobe, on which we had to push and heave small rail trucks all day. I had had a severe and long illness just prior to embarking for Japan and Karl was unlucky enough to have me for a partner. Half the time Karl was pushing the truck and dragging me at the same time. He was unfailingly cheerful with a great fund of anecdotes. Karl, I salute you, you carried me through the worst period of my captivity. On the subject of Karl, does anyone remember one hot summer morn, at Tamworth at mess when B.J. entered and asked if there were any complaints about the food? Karl stood and informed him in no uncertain terms his opinion of our cooks' culinary efforts. Karl will be with us for a long time to come. His family are renowned for longevity. He received a letter in Kobe House informing him that his grandmother had fallen out of a tree and had broken her leg - at the age of 94! Forever imprinted on my mind is the incredible bravery displayed by Bob Wells when he stormed back to the carnage that was the clearing at Gemas to carry back a mortally wounded platoon mate. There were many feats of unselfish courage on that 15/1/42, but Bob's effort was, to me, just about as high as a man can go. So, another Anzac Day approaches and as we near the Cenotaph, with the muted drums and rhythmic marching feet the only sounds, we know that we are very close to our fallen comrades and brothers and their smiling youthful faces; and they know that we will never forget. Phil, if any of these thoughts find their way into some future "MAKAN", after a bit of editing by you, I hope they bring a grin to some of our old mates. Jack Carey DUNDAS 16/4/1974. FOOTNOTE: What editing of the foregoing could be required? It is reproduced as received, without any apologies to any of the persons named, or to the writer, because your Editor believes that we have all reached the stage where our thoughts and our memories of those half forgotten events ought to be shared and can be enjoyed by all; while he also soundly subscribes to the postulation: "If you have something nice to say about someone, don't wait to turn it into a eulogy at his funeral, say it now; even though it may cause him to blush with embarrassment." ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The meeting was held at Combined Services Club on 18th April last in the presence of the smallest number of members ever to attend it. Only twelve of us dined at the Club beforehand (including Len Barnes, who was down from Cairns) and we were joined by a mere handful of stalwarts for the subsequent meeting. Fortunately, no contentious matters were raised at the meeting and the Annual Report and Hon. Treasurer's Statements and Report were adopted unanimously. During the course of presentation of the Hon. Treasurer's Report it was pointed out that though our finances are in a particularly healthy position, due to the generosity of members in making donations and paying Subs in advance, together with the savings in the production and postage of MAKAN, we could expect a falling off in cash revenue, due largely to the amount of Subs held in advance; while expenditure would increase for the production of MAKAN, due to a sharp increase in the cost of materials and the necessity for the Editor to engage the services of a typist. It was also pointed out that continuing deaths amongst members, and the corresponding increase in next-of-kin, were making it increasingly difficult to maintain our Category A registration for the posting of MAKAN; which requires 75% at least of the circulation to be paid subscribers. As an example of the saving in that regard: last issue, plus the Annual Report, was posted at a cost of $11.75 (2½¢ ea.); but without registration the cost would have been $66.40 (15¢ ea.). It was accordingly essential that we retain our active membership at least at the present figure, which will require replacement of deaths occurring by the acquisition of new (or rejoined) members; and all members were asked to assist in that regard by requesting those members of the Battalion who are not presently financial members of the Association to join up. It was also pointed out that whereas many of our members were also members of R.S.L. and other Registered Clubs and they knew that non-payment of their dues immediately on due date meant cessation of membership, quite a few seem to take months to get around to sending in their $1.50 or $2.00 as applicable. Our registration is subject to similar strict conditions and we are subject to audit by the P.M.G.'s Dept. Although we have been able to carry these late payers in the past by treating them as "free copies", our dwindling numbers will not permit such latitude in the future, and we just won't be able to send a copy of MAKAN to them until their Subs are actually paid. The election of Office Bearers resulted in all the former Executive Officers being returned unopposed to their positions, and following the death of Harry Head and assurance by Ron Foster and Joe Geoghegan that their present jobs precluded their attendance at Committee meetings, Fred Johnston, Jack Maclay and George Winchester were elected to fill those vacancies; and the remaining five members, Eric Arps, Jack Black, Noel Johnston, Bruce Upcroft and Doc Wilson were re-elected to the Committee. It is a pity that more members do not attend the Annual General Meeting, at which we frequently engage in interesting discussions and at which the members of the Executive would like to have the benefit of the views of floor members. While lack of attendance probably reflects confidence in the way the Executive manage the affairs of the Association, a practical expression of appreciation by attending the meeting would be welcomed by the Executive. ANZAC DAY : SYDNEY Despite the rather constant rain over previous months, fine weather greeted us for the March. Numbers were well down on previous years and we could only muster 81 at the Assembly Point where a good hour was spent in greetings and reminiscences before we set off. We missed our Patron and Des Duffy, both of whom, though not specifically ill, did not feel up to attending, but were pleased to welcome several Long-Distance Runners, amongst whom were noticed Jim McIntosh from the A.C.T., A. A. (Bob) Martin from Huskisson, Norm King from Goulburn, Jack Fell from Cessnock, Wally Scott and Bull Cody from the Illawarra and Athol Charlesworth from Leura. Others whom we were pleased to see were Jack Heasman (son of Jack, who died on the Railway) and Bull Cody's son. Noel Johnston led the March and Reg Napper carried the Banner with typical military bearing. Unfortunately, we didn't have our personal Band (the St. Mary's District) in attendance; in lieu of which we had a Pipe Band about 100 yards in front and another about 120 yards to the rear. Pipe Bands can be pretty good to march to, if they happen to be right in front and there is nothing near enough to affect their rhythm; but it is a harrowing experience to be sandwiched in between two of them, so far away they can hardly be heard and to have them playing an entirely different tune and beat. So we did a mixture between a tango and a polka for the entire March, and to your Scribe, who was at the rear of the column and who used to be (and still is) a bit of a crank on deportment and drill, the spectacle was horrible to behold. And it wasn't because he was out of sorts and suffering his usual anginas on the way - Len Lansdown and Snow Mason, who were manning the Aid Post, had seen to that and had well and truly fortified your Scribe. Our salvation lay in the gathering at the Forbes Tavern after the March where, to the accompaniment of copious supplies of special snacks provided by Betty and Harry Collins, and the right spirit, dispensed by cheerful bar-tenders, the exaggerated stories flowed until late afternoon. Despite our poor marching conditions, Anzac Day 1974 was voted a grand day. ANZAC DAY BATHURST Our contingent of Eric Arps, Harry Abrahams, and Sammy Hall journeyed to Bathurst to represent the Battalion at Anzac Day Ceremony, so ably conducted by the R.S.L. at the Cairn on the Limekilns Road. Bruce Pratt, our resident Association member and Curator of our Cairn, joined our contingent. Bruce had the Cairn and surroundings in first class order, and we are very appreciative of the time and trouble he has taken in improving the drainage problem associated with the site. The Ceremony was well attended and Mr. J.C. Manuel, the President of the R.S.L. Sub-Branch, introduced the Battalion Representatives to the gathering. Eric Arps responded on our behalf. Bruce Pratt laid a wreath on the 9th Division Memorial and Harry Abrahams laid a wreath on the Cairn; the 9th Division also laid their wreaths. Councillor Dick Locke, the President of the Turon Shire Council, addressed the gathering; honouring those men who had paid the "Supreme Sacrifice". Prayers were offered by Archdeacon Ellis, and the R.S.L. Band assisted in the singing of the Hymn "O God our Help in Ages Past". The "Ode to the Fallen" was recited by Sam Hall; followed by "Last Post" and "Reveille"; and the ceremony was concluded by the singing of the National Anthem, and the Benediction by Archdeacon Ellis. At the conclusion of the Ceremony Bruce Pratt presented the 2/30th Bn. Trophy to David Fish, the most improved junior player in the R.S.L. Band for the year. Special mention must also be made of the smart turnout of the Cadets of Scots College Bathurst who mounted the guard at the Cairn for the Ceremony. We are deeply appreciative of the assistance given by the R.S.L Band, and the Scots College Cadets, and of course of the sterling efforts of our good friend Col. Watson and the R.S.L. in general. The Contingent had a busy day, starting with the Dawn Service at the Carillon and finishing with the Retreat Ceremony at 6 p.m. The four representative of the Battalion, without any other ceremony, stood for 2 minutes in front of the 8th Division memorial; and Harry Abrahams placed a wreath, with 2/30th Purple and Gold ribbon attached, at the foot of the Memorial. There was only one other wreath, with no name, at the Memorial. As usual, we were overwhelmed with hospitality, including a superb lunch on Anzac Day as the guests of Bruce and Marjorie Pratt. The view from their house, with the Autumn foliage and greenness of the countryside, was really beautiful. We returned home very glad that we had been able, once again, to make the journey; and thankful for the comradeship and goodwill extended. BATTALION BOWLS AFTERNOON Reasonable weather greeted the gathering at Rydalmere Central Bowling Club on 5th May last when Jack Fell made the trip down from Cessnock, accompanied by Vera (who brought her sister along just to show how keen they were) and they were joined by Jack Maclay, Kevin Ward, Vince Leonard, John Kreckler, Snow Stevens, Snow Mason, Norm Lee and George Winchester, plus some wives and three members of the Geoghegan family. A most enjoyable afternoon was spent, during the course of which Norm Lee exhibited a certain amount of skill and cunning as a Skip, and all three of the Geoghegan family set out to prove that Nancy McKnight is not the only one capable of taming a poker machine - all three managed to crack Jackpots of varying sizes. As usual, Vince Leonard was persuaded to perform on the piano, and on this occasion he was joined by a lady member of the Rydalmere Club, who possessed a fine voice. All in all, the event was voted a wholehearted success, and the enthusiasm displayed by Jack Fell could result in a visit by a gang to Cessnock in the future, when bowls at Jack's East Cessnock Club would be combined with a tour of Pokolbin Wineries. Orders for a few gallons of the best will not be taken - if you are interested, contact Kevin and join the party. The opportunity is taken to give another reminder of the first competition for the "B.J. MEMORIAL SHIELD" to be held at the BANKSTOWN R.S.L. BOWLING. CLUB on SUNDAY, 20th OCTOBER next; when the Shield will be officially presented to the Club. Present indications are that non-playing members of the Battalion, wives and a few friends will be welcome, and Bankstown will entertain with a high tea. We will require to field several teams of fours comprising our best players, as this is one event we have to win. More information in subsequent MAKANS, but reserve the date now. NORTH COAST EX-P.O.W. REUNION DINNER The Dinner will be held
this year at: Our Representative advises that this will be an excellent night, with good food and plenty of the doings; while Sir Adrian Curlewis will be the Guest Speaker. Above all, it presents an excellent opportunity to meet up with quite a few of our members who live in the area and will be attending; while Taree is just a comfortable driving distance from Sydney and the rest of the North Coast. Harry Griffis will act as agent for any of our members desiring to attend, and he will do the booking for any accommodation required. However, he does request early advice of those wishing to attend, particularly those requiring accommodation, as the position could tighten up close to the event. For the convenience of all members, an acceptance form is included with this issue (please see page 27). FAR NORTH COAST EX-P.O.W. REUNION DINNER The Dinner will be held
this year at BALLINA R.S.L. CLUB, BALLINA Snow Hampton will act as agent for any of our members desiring to attend, and he will do the booking for any accommodation required. However, he does request early advice of those wishing to attend, particularly those requiring accommodation, as the position could tighten up close to the event. For the convenience of all members, an acceptance form is included with this issue (please see page 28). LAST POST FREDERICK JOHN ARNETT (HQ Coy): He died rather suddenly, from a heart attack at Coraki Hospital, on 25th April last. Fred had not been particularly well for some time past and had recently entered hospital for a rest. On Anzac Day morning several of his mates from the Coraki R.S.L. were permitted by the Matron to take along some beer and have an Anzac Day drink with Fred. They spent almost an hour with him, and Fred was in very good spirits when they left. He died suddenly at 5.30 p.m. that afternoon An original member of HQ Coy, Fred was a driver in the Carrier Platoon. As a P.O.W., he was on the Railway as a member of A Force and it was while he was on that job that his eyesight became affected, resulting in him going blind. On the conclusion of hostilities, when Lord and Lady Mountbatten visited the various P.O.W. Camps, Lady Mountbatten arranged for Fred and three other blinded Australians to be sent to London where she took a personal interest in them and nursed them back to health. In 1947,when Lord and Lady Mountbatten visited Australia, they sent a return air ticket to Fred, to enable him to attend a reunion dinner in Sydney with them and his three former comrades. Despite his loss of sight Fred was a carrying contractor for some years after his return to Australia, and he subsequently decided to enter the hotel-keeping business. He conducted hotels at Wardell, Toowoomba, Qld. and Mullumbimby and finally moved to the hotel at Coraki a little over three years prior to his death. His lack of sight also did not prevent Fred from taking an active interest in sporting and R.S.L. affairs, and he was Vice-President of the Coraki Sub-Branch R.S.L. at the time of his death. As an example of the esteem in which he was held in sporting circles it is recorded that just prior to his removal to Coraki he had the single honour conferred upon him of being made a Life Member of the Mullumbimby League, while at his funeral service the young boys and girls of Coraki Pony Club attended in full dress uniform and they filed past his coffin and paid their respects by removing their caps in salute. At his largely attended funeral service on 27th April, despite torrential rain and floods, which prevented several of our members (including a contingent from Murwillumbah) from attending, we were represented by Jock Logan, from the Gold Coast, Harry Riches from Brunswick Heads, Ron Sweeney, Jimmie Small, George Lister and Nugget Crummy from the Casino area, Ossie Jackson, Bob Robinson and Harry Teasdale from the Lismore area, Joe and Sybil Johnston from Knockrow, Snow Hampton from Ballina and Jack Newman from Coraki. They were joined by approximately 50 R.S.L. members from Coraki and nearby Sub-branches, and all formed a guard of honour at the church. To Fred's widowed mother and his surviving family we extend our deepest sympathy. ALFRED GEORGE HYEM (BHQ): He died suddenly from a heart attack on 27th April last at the age of 69 years. Alf had intended to go to the races that afternoon, but when his friend called to pick him up, Alf advised him that he (Alf) was feeling very off colour and would not be able to go. On seeing his condition, the friend immediately called Alf's Doctor, who came promptly; but Alf had suffered a fatal heart attack. An original member of the Intelligence Section of B.H.Q., Alf was posted missing at Gemas and fears were held for his safety. However, he had managed to join up with an English Unit and he returned to the Battalion at the Causeway. Poor health during P.O.W. days kept him off work parties and he remained at Changi. He enjoyed very indifferent health following his return to Australia and eventually obtained a job as Starter at the Beverley Park Golf Club; where he remained until ill health caused his retirement some years ago. Alf was a very keen gardener and a very successful exhibitor at Flower Shows, and he was a keen Turf follower. As a part owner of Hyde, Alf experienced the thrill of seeing his colours head the field past the winning post on Boxing Day, 1964, when Hyde won the Summer Cup. At his funeral service at the Soldiers' Memorial Presbyterian Church, Kogarah, and later at Woronora Crematorium on 3rd May last we were represented by Alex Campbell, George Clarke, Ken Crispin, Heck Heckendorf, Alan Penfold and Ian Pryce. To his wife Myrtle and daughter Lyndal, both of whom were overseas when the tragedy occurred, causing their early return by plane, and to his family we extend our deepest sympathy. FREDERICK JAMES WALKER (B. Coy): He died suddenly, from a cerebral haemorrhage, on 1st April last, at the age of 57 years. Jimmy did not marry, and lived at home with his widowed mother at Wollongong. The fatal attack occurred at his home and was sudden and without any prior warning. An original member of B. Coy, Jimmy survived the rigours of "F" Force on the Railway and a Tunnelling Party in Johore towards the end of hostilities. Like most of us, he suffered from the various complaints prevalent during P.O.W. days, but he appeared to have recovered satisfactorily by the end of the War. Upon his return to Australia, Jimmy apparently decided not to continue with his pre-War occupation of a confectioner and obtained employment at the Steelworks, with which he continued up to the time of his death. Unfortunately, we have not been able to maintain constant contact with him, as it was not until 1960 that Jimmy joined the Association and he allowed his membership to lapse the next year. Our only contact has accordingly been when some of our members living in the Illawarra area have managed to meet up with him and our knowledge of his activities and his health since his return is accordingly rather meagre. We also regret our inability to be represented at his well attended funeral on 3rd April last, due to lack of prior knowledge of the event. To his widowed mother and his two brothers and two sisters and their families we extend our deepest sympathy. DUDLEY JOSEPH VEECH (A Coy): He died suddenly, as the result of an accident at Dubbo on 6th December last, at the age of 50 years. A mere lad (16 years of age when he enlisted), Dudley joined A Coy as a reinforcement at the Causeway. During P.O.W. days, he served on "F" Force on the Railway and on a Tunnelling Party in Johore just prior to the end of hostilities; and he appeared to have weathered P.O.W. days without any untoward illness. Unfortunately he has not maintained any contact with the Association since his return nor, apparently, with any members with whom we are in touch; so we are unable to advise any details of his health, occupation or marital status. However, from the fact that his brother was notified as his next-of-kin on his death, it is quite possible that Dudley did not marry. We were only made aware of his death by appearance in "Last Post" in a recent issue of "Reveille". For that reason, we were unable to be represented or to furnish any details of his funeral service at Wellington, N.S.W., his old home town, on 9th December last. To his brother and his family we extend our deepest sympathy. MARGUERITE EMMA JENKINS: She died on 1st April., after a lengthy illness, just prior to her 84th birthday. Marguerite had not been well for quite a while and entered the R.G.H., Concord. on 2nd Feb. last for D. & R. The cause of her illness apparently remained obscure and she was transferred to Selwyn House Nursing Home, Cremorne, on 22nd March last, where she remained until her death. The widow of Alfred Jenkins, who died prior to W.W.11 and who saw active service with the British Merchant Navy in W.W.1 Marguerite was the mother of Bernie Jenkins (C Coy) who died on "F'' Force on the Railway on 22/9/43. Bernie was her only child. An original member of the 2/30 Bn. Comforts Fund, Marguerite was its President, and upon cessation of hostilities and disbandonment of the Comfort Fund, Marguerite formed the Purple and Gold Club. Keenly interested in Charitable works, Marguerite also took an active interest in Committees of the Royal North Shore Hospital, the Royal Society for the Blind, Legacy and R.S.L. Poppy Day. At her funeral service on 4th April, at the chapel of the Funeral Director and subsequently the Northern Suburbs Crematorium, the Rev. Ray Weir, Rector of her church (St. Clements, Mosman) delivered a fine eulogy and praised her many virtues and her charitable works. At the services we were represented by President Arch Thorburn, Alan Pryde, Phil Schofield, Lady Galleghan, Chub Ramsay, Betty Pryde, Cecilie Boss, Bessie Ellis and Margaret Mitchell (a former Hon. Sec. of the Purple and Gold Club). Marguerite had no relatives in Australia, but to her surviving brother in England and his family we extend our deepest sympathy. We were also saddened to learn of. the death of Leslie John Reeves, at the age of 78, in March last, father of Ray Reeves (H.Q. Coy). A veteran of the 1914-18 War, Mr. Reeves Snr. had suffered quite a long illness. To Ray and Elsie and their family we extend our deepest sympathy. WE WILL REMEMBER THEM SICK PARADE Kevin Ward reports the State as at 22/5/74: In R.G.H., Concord: In Lady Davidson,
Turramurra: In Other Institutions: Discharged from R.G.H.
since last MAKAN: Discharged from Ryde
since last MAKAN: NEWS, VIEWS AND WHOS WHOS Anzac Day, with the largest gathering of our members throughout the year, really ought to be an excellent avenue for news items concerning these columns; and it probably would be if the Editor didn't have so many other jobs to do. Looking back over his notebook, it is noticed that six pages are mostly occupied with names showing cash against them and strange hieroglyphs which translate into instructions as to disposal of the funds ($145 in all). Sandwiched in between these entries were four lots of new addresses, five instructions for the despatch of ties and badges, and some notes on the recent death of Jimmy Walker. The only items of news which emerged were a reminder that big Vic Jones (D Coy) retired from his job at the Sugar Mill last year and had a rather large send-off and presentation - Vic now lives in retirement on Harwood Island - while Johnnie and Joy Parsons (C Coy) have qualified for the Grandpa Stakes with Lisa Marie Saladine, daughter of their daughter, Jenny. Jack Burke (C Coy) managed to get his fingers working sufficiently to answer a query re the late Danny Foran (C Coy) and to advise that Morrie Horrigan (D Coy) is going well, and was fortunate enough to have the water come up to his place, but not in it, when the floods were on. Jack is plugging along, though rather slow of movement these days, getting very thin on top and according to his nephew, a bit paunchy. But he can still raise a smile every once in a while. Ray Donald (B Coy) sent in enough Subs from Glen Innes to put him well in advance and advised that he, Jean and daughter Raeline are all keeping well. Ray is kept pretty busy looking after an acre of ground around the house, and doing a bit of fossicking he even promised to send down some samples when he strikes that elusive gold mine. Ray Brown (B Coy) got that Overseas trip bug last year, so took four months off from his job as a sales rep. for a mens' suiting warehouse, and shot off Overseas with his wife. They bought a camp-mobile in England and ended up doing 7,500 miles there and on the Continent. Having visited most Countries and having met the people - particularly when buying their food in the local markets - and having experienced wonderful friendship throughout, the Browns reckon it is the best way, by far, to see Europe. To round off the trip, they had a week in Japan on the way home. Jim McIntosh (A Coy) was pretty brief when sending in his Subs from Canberra, and merely advised that he retired from the Dept of Technical Education last December, but would be doing a part time teaching job during the current year. Jim was at the March last Anzac Day, and looked fit enough. Don Sutherland (D Coy) was also very brief when sending in his Subs, plus a donation, from Bowen, Q., and merely advised that he had had a month in the local Hospital with stomach and back trouble. (We trust that he has now fully recovered - Ed.) Ashley Pascoe (B Coy) sent in enough Subs from Belfield to keep him in an advance position for a few years, and advised that he won't be sorry to quit the rat race and retire from the M.W.D. & S. Board at the end of June. Far from looking around for another job, Ashley intends to devote his spare time to the four A's he is interested in:- Australia Party, Aboriginal Medical Service, Aid for children of Vietnam and A.I.C.D. John Kreckler (HQ Coy) added a donation to his remittance for Subs and briefly advised that he was off to New Guinea, New Hebrides, New Caledonia and the Solomons on a business trip at the beginning of March. He managed to get back for Anzac Day, and advised that he had had a successful trip. When sending in Subs for Reg Milner (HQ Coy), Ross Madden (A Coy) advised that Reg was living in Armidale and spends his time, in the main, as a shearer. Reg was O.K. but had a touch of gout which kept him off the amber fluid. Darby Young (HQ Coy) added a donation when sending in his Subs and complained that in addition to his hair getting greyer, he found it increasingly difficult to stand on his head or touch his toes. He enjoys being called Darby by both grandsons, one of whom started school this year, with the other lining up for next year. Darby and Merle have booked for a trip to Singapore/Malaya in August next, so we can expect a first hand report on our plaques in the Gaol Chapel on their return. Bruce Campbell (HQ Coy) also added a donation when sending in his Subs from Port Macquarie, where he spends a lot of time on R.S.L. matters, including regular weekly hospital visiting. Bruce was in Sydney at the beginning of the year and saw Bob McLaren (D Coy) whom he reckons is keeping just so-so and was still occupying himself breeding greyhounds. Bruce continues to keep on the right side so far as his own health is concerned, which makes him one of the lucky ones. Norm King (D Coy) looked as fit as a fiddle when we saw him on Anzac Day. He mentioned that he sees Bob Bridges (D Coy) in Goulburn upon occasions. Bob is still a bit deaf, as a result of getting blown out of a slit trench on the Causeway and is a T.P.I., but manages to plug along. Norm also saw Max Pyle (D Coy) down at Berrigan recently, where Max is keeping fairly well, and pushing ahead from the oil seed venture by expanding his cattle holding. Fortunately Jeanne heeded the plea and sent in Vic Gordon's (B Coy) Subs from Brisbane. Vic had a nasty accident early this year when he had an argument with a motor mower, in which he came off second best. He ended up in Greenslopes with a few broken toes and minus the top joint on two toes on the right foot. Vic had only just got back from hospital when the disastrous floods hit them, though they fortunately did not suffer anything like the damage experienced by some of the less fortunate. Provided the cyclones and typhoons held off Jeanne expected the Gordon's to pay one of their regular holiday visits to Hayman Island for three weeks from April 10th. Jim and Bev Walshe (HQ Coy) have also joined our Overseas Trippers Group. When sending in his Subs, plus a donation, Jim advised that he took some long service leave last year and the pair of them had a three-months trip to England and Europe. They enjoyed it immensely, despite the fact that their hotel in Athens was hijacked by a Palestinian guerrilla; while they just managed to get home before the Arab/Israel War and the fuel crisis became World events. Apart from Jim's lumbar spondylitis, which plays up every now and then, and a spot of virus 'flu which hit them both early this year, the Walshe's are keeping reasonably fit. Porky Moore (B Coy) got mixed up with a car accident, which laid him low and made him a bit late sending in his Subs; so he sent in a double issue, to make sure he wouldn't be late next year. He looked fit enough when seen on Anzac Day, so he must have recovered satisfactorily. Gordon Saifallie (D Coy) did the same as Porky, with respect to Subs, but Saf's lateness was due to being laid low for over 6 weeks with a virus 'flu. That also explains why he was not available for the tea/coffee making detail at last Gemas Day. Terry O'Rourke (C Coy) couldn't make it to Sydney for Gemas Day this year, but he and Muriel, Keith and Ruth Mulholland (D Coy) and Les and Margaret Perry (D Coy) were joined by 10 others for a wreath-laying at Narrandera on 15th February, after which they all adjourned to the home of one of the chaps for refreshments. Terry is another who is suffering from gout, but apart from that and a bit of blood pressure, he reckons he is O.K.; as are also the rest of the family. Margaret is teaching at Riverside Girls High near Ryde; Jim has joined the P.M.G.'s Dept. as a trainee technician; John is an electrician and was headed for Tennant Creek, to work at the Peko Wallsend Mine, but got stranded by the floods, and was last heard of working on a prawn trawler out of Townsville and Kathie is still at home - in Fourth Form. Val Ellis did the right thing by Jack (HQ Coy) and sent in enough from Ootha to put him in an advance position and still leave enough for a donation. She mentioned that Jack was keeping reasonably well, but was slowing up a bit. Val also advised that they had had a long harvest, but it had been much better than the previous three years. The Ellis tally in the Grandpa Stakes (in Feb. last) 5 granddaughters, had every chance of improving in April, through the efforts of their second daughter. Joyce Parfrey also had to send in Subs for Les (D Coy), from Deniliquin, and advised that they have sold the property and intend living in Deniliquin in the near future - as soon as they have sold their own sheep and have had a clearing sale. Les is keeping well, but reckons he has done enough hard yakka over the past years, and he intends to occupy himself in the future with a bit of dealing in sheep. Billie Melrose also sent in the Subs for Les (HQ Coy) and mentioned that Les has not been the best since Christmas 1972 resulting in him being made a T.P.I. in July last. All of which explains why we haven't seen him on the last couple of Anzac Days - Les is one of our regulars. Another one of the not-so-wells has been Ian Grace (A Coy), but when Levine sent his Subs in she reckoned that he had his chin well up and continued with his outlook that there must be somebody, somewhere, worse off than he is. At least he is assured that Smithy still loves him very much. There is no valid reason why Frank Sullivan (B Coy) couldn't send his own Subs in, but Olgar had to do it for him, so she sent in enough to put him in an advance position, and added a bit of news. At that time (March last) Frank was taking a bit of a busman's holiday, helping their eldest son, John, move into a house he had bought recently at Riverwood, and which Frank had practically remodelled. However, he and Olga were then setting off on a more or less leisurely trip down South; with Frank hoping to do a spot of fishing on the way. Youngest son, Robert, is a student School Teacher, and had just returned from a three months trip to the U.K. and the Continent. Doughy White (HQ Coy) couldn't resist sending in a couple of pages from his R.S.L. Club Bulletin which featured his P.O.W. exploits, particularly on “A" Force. It makes good reading and we learned from it that Doughy had been sent to Saigon towards the end of the War and was in fact in that City when the Japs turned it in. Married before going overseas, Doughy and Marge had one son, Glen, and following his return, Stephen was born; while they qualify for the Grandpa Stakes with grand-daughter, Rachael. Doughy continues in the Baking business, but with the folding up of White's Bakery, Bexley, he has become a Buttercup man. Ray Simmons (BHQ) was a bit late sending in his Subs from Wyoming (near Gosford, not the U.S.A.) so he doubled up, to make sure he would be early next year. 1973 was not one of the happiest of years for the Simmons. Firstly, Ray had a difference of opinion with his employer, so left and went to another carpet distributor; but that entailed too much running around so, after 10 weeks of it, Ray decided, to give it all away, and he has retired. (At 69 and with a heart condition, it is little wonder he reached that decision - Ed.) Then, Leila's brother, who, incidentally, saw service in the Middle East in the 2/3 Bn., died suddenly in Queensland; and promptly thereafter, Ray's sister embarked on a series of coronaries, each one more severe than the previous one. (Our deepest sympathy to Leila, and the hope that Ray's sister has recovered satisfactorily - Ed). To add to their worries, son Mitchell, who is in business in Canberra (Canberra Optical Services) got mixed up with an electric power plug, which exploded in his hand severely burning him - luckily he was not electrocuted. Fortunately, a lucky break came at the end of the year, when they were delighted to attend the wedding of Ross, younger son of Bruce and Billie Greer (HQ Coy), and the christening of the Greer's first entry in the Grandpa Stakes, the daughter of the elder son, Ewan and wife Elizabeth. Ray had more than a passing interest in the grand-daughter, as he had had the pleasure and honour of giving away Elizabeth at her marriage to Ewan, so he reckoned the entry should also be added to his own, making his score 8. (That would be cheating a bit, but wouldn't have much effect on the No. 1 position held by the Kennedy's whose score at the count in January last was 20. Anyway, here's hoping that 1974 is a better year for the Simmons, and that Ray's 70th birthday, on 21st June, is suitably acknowledged and celebrated by the family - Ed.) Congratulations are in order for Thelma Simpson. When sending in Jack's (A Coy) Subs from Minnamurra, Thelma advised that she put her first painting - a soft sunrise - in Kiama Show, and won first prize. She also won a complete scholarship for short story writing, and admitted to being so thrilled with her success that she is sure she would never survive the shock of a big lottery win. Thelma sent in enough to keep Curly out of trouble for a few years and enquired the amount necessary for a Life Subscription to save the worry of having to remember to get Subs away each year. For the benefit of all those wives who might be toying with the same idea; we don't have a Life Sub. for MAKAN; and there are at least two good reasons for this. Firstly, the annual Sub. for MAKAN is set each year by the Executive, and could vary extensively from year to year. While the Executive continue to have a half-blind 67 year-old Editor and a 70 year-old Office Boy to do all the work, plus registration for posting under category A, even including the necessity to employ a typist, each issue of MAKAN can be presently produced and posted at a cost of 20c; and the normal six issues, plus special Gemas Day and the Annual Report are nicely covered by the present $1.50 for a year's Sub. If MAKAN had to be printed, made up and despatched professionally, without the benefit of category A registration, it would cost at least 65c per issue, at the present time. The equivalent of 7½ issues in a year would accordingly require a Sub. of at least $5.00, and it is very doubtful whether many members would consider that outlay worthwhile. Secondly, your Editor considers the main function of MAKAN to be the dissemination of news of members, and the principal source of items for those columns is the letters which he has cajoled the overworked, unpaid secretary/wives into including with their remittances for their husbands' Subs. If our members could pay a Life Sub, to MAKAN, and their wives no longer had to send in Subs, letters would cease, news items would cease, MAKAN would cease. So, Girls, please bear with the Editor, suffer the burden and keep those letters rolling in; and if you do happen to send in enough to put your man in a Subs-in-advance position, please don't stop writing until his Subs run out. How about a mid-year as well as an end-of-the-year letter, just to keep the Editor well informed, able to continue the news columns, and happy. Having wandered, and at some length, from the original subject, a return to Thelma's letter is long overdue. Thelma advised that Jack continues to plug along, with more downs than ups and was currently (early March) on a month's leave. He and Thelma did a fencing job round her Mother's property and apparently did such a good job that they have received offers of fencing contracts.. However, they intended leaving on a fortnights wandering around (presumably in their campmobile) looking for painting subjects for Thelma. They met A.A. (Bob) Martin (HQ Coy) at the Kiama Show. He wasn't chopping that day, but told them he had got a 3rd at Albion Park just previously. (In response to the Editor's enquiry on Anzac Day, the self same Bob admitted to having had a good run lately, with a couple of each of 1sts, 2nds and 3rds over recent times; but the wins were starting to play havoc with his handicap - Ed.) Apart from suggesting the imposition of some sort of a fine on husbands who won't write, to be applied for the benefit of the wives who do, Thelma sent their regards to all, and added a reminder that Minnamurra is not far off the Princes Highway, when any of the lads are travelling South. Steve Kirton (HQ Coy) bunged a bit of Canadian currency in with his Circular and conversion to Aust. currency paid his Sub. and left some over as a donation. In his accompanying letter from Burnaby, B.C., Steve mentioned that he had been flat to the boards with his work, which left very little time for letter writing. So he merely mentioned that he hoped to be able to pay Australia another visit, about March next year, and he enclosed quite a few interesting clippings from the Vancouver Press, which have been passed on to the Office Boy for his entertainment. A snide reference in last MAKAN to lack of news from Joe Roxburgh (BHQ), who usually bungs his Subs, plus a donation in with his Circular and merely adds Seasonal Greetings, brought an explanation from him and a complete withdrawal of his remarks by your Editor. Joe has a list of entitlements, plus several others not accepted which would make the average cove blanch with fear, and retire; but Joe stoically accepts the position and reckons there are lots worse off than he is. His main concern is the extremely poor health of. his wife who has been almost a complete invalid for some years past. So Joe works all night and spends the daylight hours, looking after his wife, doing all the household chores and shopping; and trying to catch up on a bit of sleep. All of which explains why Joe has small time for letter writing and finds it impossible to attend any of our functions. (Sorry to hear of your misfortunes, Joe - here's hoping 1974 shows some improvement - Ed.) Frank Purvis (B Coy) was a bit late with his Subs, so he sent in enough to keep him from worrying for a few years and added some news. Both Frank and Ruth are keeping well. No. 1 daughter, Lesley, is married and has produced the Purvis entry in the Grandpa Stakes - a daughter, Ruth. No. 2 daughter, Susan, is married, but no children as yet. As both daughters were teachers, and married teachers, Frank reckons the Purvis family have a gaggle of teachers. No. 1 son, Douglas, is a Naval Pilot (Air), and as he did his training at Pearce, W.A., Frank and Ruth went over for his graduation. They caught up with Ron Stoner (B Coy), looking very fit and well settled in, in Perth. No. 2 son is still at home, doing First Year at High School. Our F.N.C. Social Reporter advises a happy event on Sunday, 12th May last; and reports: Lady Galleghan was paying an official V.A.D. visit to the Far North Coast, accompanied by her Secretary, and was in the Ballina area over the weekend 11/12 May. Her schedule was very tight, and there was insufficient time to contact the bulk of our members in the area, but Len Clavan, Bruce Greer, Snow Hampton and Joe Johnston were able to persuade Lady Galleghan to stretch her schedule a bit more, and they entertained her, her Secretary, the Ballina Leader of the V.A.D. and our Social Reporter to lunch at the Ballina R.S.L. on the Sunday. A very pleasant hour was spent, during which Lady Galleghan was able to catch up on some of the background of our F.N.C. boys. Bob Wells (D Coy) heeded the plea for some news and put pen to paper. Writing from Gresford he advised that he and Betty set out on 27th April last on a trip to take them through the Riverina, Murray Valley, Victoria and where their wheels and fancy dictated. Their purpose was to combine a bit of business with pleasure, as there were several bulls standing at A1 centres in which Bob was interested. They stayed the first night at Parkes, and were able to locate Brian Hayes (D Coy). Brian was unfortunate enough to break his back some time ago, and he is still having problems with Workers Compensation; but Bob reckons that Brian still remains as cheerful as ever; and is ably aided and abetted by his charming wife, whom Bob reckons has the same good nature and outgoing personality as Brian. Next call was on Max Pyle (D Coy) and his delightful wife, at Berrigan, where Bob reckons that Max appears to be sitting rather comfortably. The Pyle's have a daughter working in the A.B.C. in Melbourne and two boys away at School. One boy is shortly to start with Max on the land. Unfortunately, it was so wet in those areas at that time that they were reluctant to attempt to find Bill Brown (D Coy) at Griffith, but they called on Keith Mulholland (D Coy) at Narrandera, where he has been associated with the Bowling Club since shortly after his return from Overseas. Keith mentioned that Ray Godbolt (D Coy) had been there for Anzac Day. Bob mentioned in passing that Ray and Don Schumacher (D Coy) generally spend Anzac Day at Gresford, and Don did so this year. As a matter of interest to many of our members, Bob advised that when he was in Melbourne he called on Arch Moles, who was a Sgt. in Records, and he has kept records of all Australians, particularly those who were in Kobe, Japan. Bob mentioned that it was very distressing in some instances, but very gratifying in others to hear of old friends during their visit to Arch Moles. On the way home, the Wells stayed with their old family friends the Sid Grounds (A Coy) in Sydney, where Bob learned that Sid can still down a few, and despite his ups and downs, Sid continues to keep reasonably well. To bring us up to date with his own family, Bob advised that daughter, Margaret, has returned from her 12 months in America under Rotary exchange, and she started at the Newcastle University this year. Sons Ken (Fifth Year) and Trevor (Third Year) are both at Maitland Boys High, and their sweetie, Julie, has just started School. Bob freely admits that their "afterthought" is perhaps just a little spoilt. All the family are well, including Bob and Betty, who had a serious operation, almost two years ago, but has recovered extremely well. And there we must end for the time being, with the warning that the "News items for inclusion" folder is empty; and unless some of the readers write in, next issue will be a very scant one. Back to 1974 index or Main Index |