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No. 223 OFFICIAL JOURNAL 2/30 Bn. A. I. F. ASSOCIATION Subscription Rate: $1.50 per Year Registered for Posting as Periodical: Category A
WHAT DO YOU THINK? The results of the responses to the Editor's invitation to comment on the article in last issue of MAKAN were, to say the least, somewhat disappointing. From a circulation of 425, a total of 13 letters and phone calls were received. Admittedly, letters were received from as far North as Queensland and as far South as Victoria, with one phone call from Maitland; but, from the more than 200 readers in the metropolitan area, only one letter and four phone calls were received. That raises the question: Are the articles appearing in MAKAN actually read; or, if they are read, do they hold the interest of the reader other than for a fleeting instant; or, if they are read, and are considered interesting, do the vast majority of the readers suffer from an apathy which makes any response just too much trouble? It raises a second question (and a very important one, so far as your Editor is concerned): Is MAKAN really worthwhile? And an alternative question: Does it warrant the work involved in the production and dispatch of MAKAN as a bi-monthly journal? Probably due to his infirmities, and slowing down occasioned by that unavoidable aging process (and particularly when articles and supplements on special subjects are included) it is almost a full time job for the Editor. Added to that, the various tasks associated with preparing the covers and envelopes, the printing, making up, placing in envelopes and final dispatch of each issue of the journal involve at least six separate visits to the Editor's home by either Les Hall or Alex Dandie - if a supplement is involved, those visits are increased by a further four. While no sympathy can be accorded for self-inflicted wounds, and the Editor is fully aware that he has acquired most of the onerous duties without any prompting from outside sources, in his defence he would like to point out that four years ago MAKAN was at the crossroads, financially. Despite inflation, members still receive six copies per year at a cost of $1.50, and in the past, various supplements have accompanied several of the issues. From enquiries made, to have the journal printed, made up and dispatched by commercial sources would necessitate payment by members of a subscription rate of $10.00 per year. That probably would provide the answer to the second question (including the alternative): A very firm NO! Having had his beef and having indulged in a bit of self pity, it behoves the Editor to advise what those who did reply truly thought of the article. All were unanimous in their agreement with the sentiments expressed, and the remarks of several of those who wrote letters warrant reproduction. A Queensland reader stoutly defended Anzac Day and all that it stood for. He pointed out that the younger generation -all born since the war - could not possibly know what loyalty and love of country and freedom could mean to those who volunteered to serve their country in times of war; and in peace time, by hard, honest work and service to others. He went on to say: We are not out of step, but the majority of the mob are out of step with us. Let us keep Anzac Day, and march with bands playing and medals jingling. We may cause some of the observers to question our motives and old fashioned virtues, and come to the conclusion that there must be something in them. They may then compare us with the mob running our country at the present time and question their motives, especially their acts of treason. An article from "News Weekly" of June 18th, enclosed with his letter, stated the alarming facts: Communist power - Soviet, Chinese, Vietnamese - now extended from Central Europe, across the entire Eurasian land mass, including China. It had now absorbed Indo-China, with its 45 million people. It's borders are approximately 700 air miles from Singapore (the distance between Melbourne and Newcastle) and 2000 air miles from Darwin (the distance between Melbourne and Perth.) From the Central Coast a reader advised:- Regarding the main point in the author's article: I can, to a certain extent agree. But don't be of faint heart. All those things that are upsetting him cannot last. Patriotism isn't something that can be shrugged off. The desire and willingness to do an honest days work is still inherent, it is only the opportunity that is lacking. Standards of behaviour and the will to keep trying are still with us, and when they, the younger generation, realise that communism is controlling the work force of the country through the unions - it has even infiltrated into the Public Service and Government - they will do something. Things must get worse before they ultimately either destroy themselves, or are destroyed. And destroyed they will be, as sure as night follows day. It has happened before: during the 1914/18 war it was the I.W.W. - the leaders were incarcerated on Garden Island - in the early days of the depression, it put in a very brief appearance; and then again in 1942 (I think), when the wharf labourers went on strike; but I have great faith in the "little man and his wife". Right will and must prevail; and if our opponents decide to fight, I suggest that there are still enough patriotic and loyal old dodderers and young red blooded blokes about to put an end to it all and write: FINIS. Another Central Coast reader advised:- The torch was passed to us by our fallen comrades - are we letting it flicker and die? Perhaps more often all should be reminded that Anzac Day is akin to a National Saints Day - a day for remembering that there are times when sacrifice, even unto death, is essential if we desire to continue rejoicing in our freedom. Surely now is the time for the silent majority to stand up and be counted - to stand up to the aggressive subverters of our heritage and say "look mate! we don't like your ideals, or your ideas; get lost!". He also included a copy of a paraphrase of the 23rd Psalm, which appeared in a U.K. publication: THE PSALM The union is my shepherd:
I shall not work. Its restrictive practices
and shop stewards comfort me. Surely hire-purchase
payments and Union dues A metropolitan reader advised: Perhaps the most important fact of life we of the A.I.F. generation have to face is that, as a generation who shared the common sacrifices of war, we are in a minority today. It is natural therefore, that we shall progressively be rubbing shoulders with younger people who have not experienced any national period of common sacrifice and do not apprehend the strength of bonds that such an experience develops. Another potent factor in recent years has been a deliberate campaign in our universities and education areas (by many - but not all teachers - already indoctrinated by communism) to denigrate the Anzac Day tradition (note an article in the July issue of Reveille). It is disturbing now to realise that quite a large proportion of our teenage students talk of "the oppressors" and the need to turn society upside down. They never seem to clarify who the oppressors are; but the society we still live in is the same one we in the A.I.F. fought for - and in many thousands of cases even died for. It is not perfect, but at least we have many important freedoms that people living in communist countries do not have. Had Anzac Day been given the stature of Australia Day - as I feel it should have been - to the extent of replacing the day commemorating the establishment of a British penal colony we could have been stimulated over the years in much the same way as America with its Independence Day and France with its Bastille Day. Anzac was our birthday as a Nation, one sealed by Australian blood, rather than a political milestone (as Federation was). Our whole nation would be rallying to its proud heritage year by year; but such a change is now a pipe dream. I am afraid Anzac Day in its present form will die with the passing of the A.I.F. generation - unless there occurs another crisis calling for national sacrifice before it reaches that point. Then the traditions of Anzac and the significance of each Australian's love of his own country will once again need to be put to the test. Then will the Anzac ideals of service, sacrifice and basic love of Australia once again loom largely in all minds. Meanwhile, I regard it as our duty and need to keep alive this heritage of courage and mateship amongst our AIF generation for as long as we can. You care, Graham, the Editor and the Office Boy care, and so do at least 13 other readers. Your contribution was (and still is) considered by the Editor to be timely and thought provoking, and it had been hoped to receive so many comments that the results could have been furnished in the form of a poll, percentage-wise, in varying categories under selected snippets from the replies. It was then proposed to obtain your permission to forward your article, plus a copy of the poll, to selected newspapers (including Reveille) for publication; but a 3% response would hardly attract the attention of anyone. Unfortunately, lack of replies precluded such a course of action, but those received were very much worthwhile; and no dissentient views were expressed. TO BROKEN HILL AND ADELAIDE WITH THE FELLS Writing from Cessnock, Jack Fell was kind enough to let us share with them, an interesting trip which he and Vera recently enjoyed. Jack advised: We have just returned from my annual holidays, which took the form of an extended tour, by car. We left here and travelled by way of Cassillis, Dubbo and Cobar to Broken Hill. We stayed overnight in the caravan park at Cobar, and renewed acquaintance with Tom Davis. Tom, besides being the Ambulance Superintendent, is one of the leading lights in the Cobar Memorial Services Club. This is where we spent most of the afternoon, and managed to lower a keg down a hoop or two. We returned to the caravan park fairly late in the afternoon for a shower and a change, and returned to the club as Tom's guest at a send off to one of the bank managers. I think we managed to finish the keg at this sitting. The next morning we travelled on to Broken Hill, leaving Cobar about 7 a.m. Although the road passes through what is virtually desert country, it is still a most interesting trip to anyone who has not seen this part of the State before. There is an abundance of wild life over this section, with many wild pigs and kangaroos feeding in close proximity to the edge of the road. There are also many emus, and it is not uncommon to have to either stop or reduce speed to allow a family of these birds to make their way, very leisurely, across the road. The advent of the motor car has made it very easy for the large number of crows and eagles to obtain food, because the road is liberally strewn with the carcases of pigs and kangaroos. The birds appear to treat the cars with a certain amount of contempt, as they do not interrupt their feeding unless the carcass is right on the road itself. We had a refuelling stop at Wilcannia, which once was a thriving town but now seems to be only inhabited by aborigines and flies. We did only intend to stay in Broken Hill a couple of days, but it is interesting enough to spend longer than that. We stayed four days, and did not see as much as it was possible to see. We travelled out to the Menindee Lakes Storage Scheme, from which the water is piped 65 miles to the Hill. This is a rear eye opener, being as it is a real oasis in the desert. Menindee itself has only a very small population, and depends mainly on the tourists. Many of the people from the Hill use it as a recreation and picnic area, with swimming, sailing, water skiing and speed boats. In one area, which has been called Sunset Strip, there are many very nice homes being built. Unfortunately, their appearance is somewhat marred by the six foot high clip-lock fences with which they are surrounded. These are necessary to keep out the red sand, which is continually on the move and drifts up against the fences. The old Menindee Hotel has been in the one family for 119 years. It caters for the local residents as well as the tourists who flock there on Sundays. It serves a three course meal which is the equal of any served by the much better class hotels in the city. A trip to the old jail at Silverton is also well worth while, containing as it does many relics of the early days of the District. For the statistically minded, there are 35 hotels and 12 registered clubs in Broken Hill. In the few days at our disposal, we managed to inspect 9 of the clubs, but only two hotels. Visitors to Broken Hill are always assured of a welcome at any of the clubs. We left Broken Hill on the Wednesday morning en route to Adelaide. Once again the road traverses desert country, but this gradually changes until you are passing through typical grazing country. We spent ten days in Adelaide, where my primary subject was to take part in the greenkeepers bowls carnival; which is held in a different State every three years. After leaving Adelaide we travelled on to Mount Gambier, but were disappointed with the famous Blue Lake, as it had changed it's colour back to a dirty grey. I did intend to look up several 2/30th fellows on my way back up the N.S.W. coast, but unfortunately, time was fast running out. The only one whom I had time to see was Curly and Thelma Simpson. This was mainly because this couple had shared a flat with us at Bathurst, and Vera and I had only seen Thelma once since our return. That, incidentally, was on the occasion of our first trip to Adelaide more than 20 years ago. Curly has retired, but does not look too well, although he makes light of his worries. They were to set out with one of their grandsons next morning on a gold fossicking expedition. We stayed in Sydney over the weekend and called on Frank and Ruth Purvis. We also called in to Arncliffe R.S.L., where we were fortunate enough to find Snow Stevens. We thoroughly enjoyed our holiday, and have got another twelve months to look forward to the next one. SUPPLEMENT Enclosed with this issue is a supplement containing some notes on Repatriation and other matters which were considered to be of interest to members and next-of-kin. Although the Editor made enquiries from various responsible sources and took every care in the preparation, it is obvious that it is extremely difficult for a layman to provide anything on a somewhat technical subject which is correct in every respect. However, the supplement was produced sufficiently in advance of the dispatch to have it checked over by experts, as a result of which it has been necessary to produce a sheet of amendments (also enclosed) which require to replace some portions of the text. Readers are accordingly asked to please observe the requests and to affix the various sections of the amendment sheet to the blank spaces on the pages of the supplement, as specified. It is stressed that the supplement was not intended to be an authoritative treatise on the subjects mentioned, but it is hoped that some aspects of it may at least prove helpful to some members and next-of-kin. CEREMONIAL PARADE AND SERVICE R.N.S.W.R The Regimental Colonel, Major-General Marshall, has advised that the annual parade and service at the Cenotaph in Martin Plaza will be held at 10.30am on Saturday, 16th August next. He has invited all associated Units and Unit Associations to take part in the event - our invitation comes from our association with 17 R.N.S.W.R. Detachments from each of the six Battalions in the Regiment will form-up and march to the Cenotaph, arriving there at 10.30 am. Following a brief service and wreath-laying ceremony, the parade will re-form and continue the march, via George Street, to Hyde Park. The Governor of New South Wales will take the salute at the Town Hall. Noel Johnston will lay the official wreath on our behalf and he, and the Executive, would like as many members as possible to attend and join with Noel, to help swell the ranks of the 17. Bn. group. Any members desiring to do so may join the 17. Bn. group and complete the march to Hyde Park. Those participating in the march should wear hats and medals. Will all those who are able to attend please contact Noel Johnston oft the G.P.O. Steps, in the vicinity of the Cenotaph, at 10.20am on Saturday, 16th August next. LAST POST JAMES HART (BHQ): He died on 14th June last, at the R.G.H., Heidelberg, Vic, from a heart condition, at the age of 72. Shorty had been far from well for some considerable time past, and of late he had suffered from a particularly, virulent penicious anaemia. However, he suffered a heart attack towards the end of May, and was admitted to Heidelberg. Although for a while he appeared to be making good progress, a further attack proved fatal. Orphaned at the age of 6 years, Shorty eventually migrated to Australia, from Scotland, at the age of 21. He had his ups and downs during those early years in Australia, particularly during the Depression Years, and became an original member of BHQ when he joined the Battalion with that somewhat exclusive group, the Band, of which he was a very popular member. During P.O.W. days, Shorty did his stint on "F" Force, on the Railway, and subsequently on a Tunnelling Party in Johore, towards the end of hostilities. Although he suffered the illnesses and privations, in common with most of us, he appeared to have weathered them satisfactorily, though they undoubtedly affected his health later on. Following his return to Australia, Shorty continued with his occupation as a carpenter; and he and Nancy were married in 1948, and moved into a home he had built at Essendon, Vic. He eventually retired from work in 1970. A keen Association member (though, like the wives of many other members, Nancy did the letter writing), Shorty maintained contact with his mates in the Battalion, particularly those in the Band, and several stories are current regarding his exploits with some of them. At his largely -attended funeral service at the picturesque, Keilor Cemetery on 19th June, the East Keilor Sub-Branch conducted the R.S.L. Service. Unfortunately, we were unable to have personal representation at the service. To Nancy and son, Robert, we extend our deepest sympathy. ALBERT E. PARSONS (BHQ): From the June issue (and repeated in the July issue) of Reveille we learned of his death. Unfortunately our records are rather sketchy, and we can only advise that he was an original member of BHQ and apparently spent the period as a P.O.W. in the Changi area. We have also been unable to obtain any information concerning his marital status or occupation following his return to Australia, as he has not maintained any contact with the Association since his return. We can accordingly only extend our deepest sympathy to his surviving family, if any. A.E. (Snowy) BRACE (D Coy): We also learned from the July issue of Reveille of the death of Snowy, who (from our records) would have been 57 years of age. Pre-war, a fisherman who hailed from Catherine Hill Bay, Snowy was an original and a popular member of D Coy, with his quiet humour and sometimes tall tales of his fishing exploits. During P.O.W. days, Snowy did his stint on "F" Force, on the Railway, and the illnesses suffered on that Work Party kept him off other major parties until just prior to the cessation of hostilities when he went on a Tunnelling Party on Singapore Island; which was comprised of the "not so fits''. Unfortunately, Snowy has not maintained any contact with the Association since his return to Australia, and we are unable to provide any information concerning his marital status or occupation. We can accordingly only extend our deepest sympathy to his surviving family, if any. WE WILL REMEMBER THEM SICK PARADE Kevin Ward reports the State as at 23/7/75: In R.G.H., Concord and
other Hospitals: Discharged since last
MAKAN: Kevin wishes to emphasise once more. The Computer system does not seem to work satisfactorily. Please get a message to him when you are going into Hospital. MID NORTH COAST Ex-Ps.O.W. REUNION DINNER: PORT MACQUARIE Date: Saturday, 16th
August, 1975. All Ps.O.W. and wives are welcome. If you have not already done so, let Dudley Bale know that you are attending - or 'phone him. FAR NORTH COAST Ex-Ps.O.W, REUNION DINNER: BALLINA Date: Saturday, 16th
August, 1975. All Ps.O.W, wives and family over 18 are welcome. If you have not already done so, let Noel Hampton, C/- R.S.L. Club, Ballina, 2478 know that you are attending. NEWS, VIEWS AND WHOS WHOS Provided nothing occurs to upset their plans, Vice-President Bob Jack and the Editor (Phil SCHOFIELD) intend to be present at the Mid-North Coast Ex-P.O.W. Reunion Dinner at Port Macquarie on 16th August next. From there, they propose to continue on, up the Coast, in leisurely fashion, staying overnight at such places as Grafton, Lismore, Ballina, Murwillumbah. It is also proposed to make day-time stops at intermediate towns, and to return to Sydney via the Bruxner and New England Highways; with a stop-over at either Armidale or Tamworth. The trip is intended to be a relaxed, holiday visit, and as a tight schedule will not be maintained, dates of arrival in various towns cannot be given; but Bob and the Editor hope to make contact with as many as possible of our North Coast members during the course of their wanderings. Those of us who were with the Battalion during the training days at Tamworth will remember with gratitude the kindness of a group of Tamworth ladies who conducted a refreshment and recreation centre for the troops. These ladies did a grand job in tending to a very large number of troops who passed through the Tamworth and Manilla training camps. John Parsons (C Coy), in particular, has reason to remember the circumstances, for it was at the recreation centre that he met Joy, who was to become his wife. One of the ladies was a Mrs. Yuille, who was often assisted by her daughter, Marjorie (now Mrs. Wilson). Last Anzac Day, Marjorie and an acquaintance encountered some of our marchers near our gathering point at the Forbes Hotel. As a result of that meeting a Sunday barbecue lunch was organized by Marjorie at her Central Mangrove home on 25th May last. Those of our boys who were able to go along, afterwards made it clear that the spirit of hospitality exhibited during our training days, by the Tamworth ladies, was very much a characteristic of Marjorie. An extremely pleasant day was had by all who had the good fortune to be present. It was not an "old soldiers / ex-Servicemen" affair. Rather, it was a gathering of Central Mangrovites, to which Marjorie invited those of our fellows whom she encountered on Anzac Day. Ron and Lesley Ollis, (HQ Coy), Graham and Lyn McLeod (HQ Coy) and John and Joy Parsons (C Coy) (accompanied by their son and his girlfriend) made the trip. Some of our "originals" from Tamworth Days may recall Marjorie's father, Mr. Yuille, now aged 92 and in satisfactory health. This gentleman was very much on the scene, enjoying it all, and tending Marjorie's three children. The War Graves Commission, with the full cooperation of the Thailand authorities, has done a magnificent job in establishing a cemetery at Kanchanaburi (near the famous Bridge) for those, of the Prisoners-of-War who died. whilst working on, or as a result of their hardships when working on the construction of what we know as the Burma-Siam railway. The cemetery (quite the equal of that at Kranji on Singapore Island), is beautifully laid out and splendidly and lovingly maintained. Through the good offices of his sister, Mrs. Heywood, and the kindness of her friend, Geoffrey Parker, who recently had an extensive excursion along the notorious railway line, Alan Pryde now has some truly excellent photographic reproductions of the cemetery scene. The enlargements, (to about 18" x 15") are really good and it is intended that they will be shown at gatherings of Association members and families for some time to come. They are so good that they would grace the Australian War Memorial. In the list of Queen's Birthday Honours, published in S.M.H. of 14th June last, and under the heading "Order of Australia Members", appeared the entry:- "Mr. Stanley Foch Arneil, Collaroy NSW. credit movement." Our congratulations to Stan on his well deserved Honour. As we understand it, Stan was instrumental in establishing a credit union within his sphere of employment with the A.B.C. Subsequently he became a senior administrator and organizer in a federation of credit unions. In that sphere he has been almost exclusively engaged for many years, has published books on the subject, and has had overseas trips to study credit union methods elsewhere. Congratulations, Stan. After a silence, extending over some years, Ron Stoner (B Coy) finally put pen to paper from Perth in lengthy fashion. We quote from his newsy letter. We have had the pleasure of welcoming quite a number of 2/30th friends to this State since we came here. We did enjoy being quite a lot with Frank and Ruth Purvis (B Coy), and getting to know their Midshipman son, Doug, who completed his flying training at Pearce, W.A. R.A.A.F. Base. We were guests at Doug's Graduation Parade a year and a half ago. We are quite close to Singapore here, and I had the pleasure of attending a Real Estate Convention there last September. We (Dot travelled with me) took the opportunity before the Convention of visiting Bangkok and Hong Kong, and at both places we were feted by friends. As a consequence, we are going to be guardians of a young Chinese lad from Hong Kong, who is coming to Perth to attend Wesley College next year. Western Australia has treated us well and our daughter, Flora, has made good progress here. She matriculated with honours in Physics, Chemistry and German, and gained a Commonwealth and a Teacher's College Scholarship. She elected to be a Teacher, and is now in the final year of Science at the W.A. University, majoring in Botany. Dot was President of the Ionian Club last year, and as a consequence, we have made a lot of firm friends here. I have kept out of things, and have concentrated on business, and building up my garden. The only thing I have taken office in is on the Board of Management of "Numbala Nunga", an "A" Class Hospital and Nursing Home in Derby, I have made trips to the Kimberleys, the Pilbara, Kalgoorlie, and other parts of this great State. The Pilbara, with its amazing iron ore developments, impressed me the most. Next week (mid May) Dot and I are junketing off to Paris to attend the Real Estate Federation Congress being held in the Centre Internationale de Paris. After a week in Paris, we go on to London for a little over a week, before returning to the Continent, en route for Rome. We expect to make a leisurely journey, with stop-overs at Brussels, Cologne and Munich, where we will stay with friends, just 25 miles out of the City, for 5 or 6 days; before going to Venice, Florence and Rome. We will then join a flight back to Perth, via Singapore. I saw George Mitchell (B Coy) and Shirley recently, and admired their bright-eyed young daughter, the apple of George's eye. I can report that George is being very well looked after by Shirley, and is very much the George I knew of yore; but is having to take it easy now. His sons are fine lads, and very prominent in sports. I'll be entering my 70th year in June, and although I cannot push a train over now, I am keeping remarkably fit, and haven't had a single day off work since I took up the reins here four years ago. Garry Rickwood (C Coy) also broke a drought of some years standing when he wrote to Arch Thorburn from the U.K. Arch passed the letter on, and we quote: Things have gone quite well for me since I sold my farm in Devon. Last year I decided to take things a bit easier. I have sold my building and a supermarket to a large chain, and I now only have a small Post Office and Stationers, with only two staff; and Marjorie and I take things pretty easy. I will probably sell this next year, and fully retire. We are making up for holidays we have had to miss. Last month, we had a couple of weeks in Portugal - a lovely place, with beautiful golf courses. In May, we are off to Elba. We shall take our car, and drive over there, as we are going for three weeks, and are looking forward to it. My son is still unmarried, so I have not yet had the indignity of being called Grand Dad. He is at present a Lecturer at Southampton Technical College. I recently had a check up with the doctor, and he gave me a clean bill of health - my reward for living an abstemious life. When I sell my present business, I'll probably make a trip to Australia, and hope to see something of you all then. Grace Tulloch (sister of our late mate Harry Weiss - C Coy) wrote in from Singleton to express her sincere agreement with the sentiments expressed in "What do you think?", and enclosed a cutting from the local Newspaper, "The Singleton Argus", dated 4th June. The article was headed "A tribute to a quiet, helpful gentleman" and went on to say: A quiet, but well known personality who has devoted most of his life to the younger generation, will be guest of honour at a dinner to be held on July 12th, when the many people he has come in contact with will show the esteem in which he is held by them. He is Mr. Dal Oldknow (D Coy) of Edward Street, Singleton. For the past 20 years, Dal, whose correct name is Norman Dallas Oldknow, has conducted the St. Lukes C.E.B.S. (Church of England Boy's Society) meetings, and it was decided to hold a dinner in his honour. The article included a photo of a group of the Boys, with Dal featured prominently in the centre of them, and it extolled his virtues and the excellent work he had done. Congratulations to Dal on a job well done. Eva Standing (widow of our late mate, Ted - HQ Coy) wrote in from Lismore to advise that she has decided to give up living on her own, and has moved into a hostel for the aged, "Ozanam Villa", in Lismore. This was largely on the advice of her doctor and, at 74 years of age, she agreed with him. She sent her regards and best wishes to all. Joyce Parfrey wrote in from Deniliquin to express complete agreement by her and Les (D Coy) with the sentiments expressed in "What do you think?", and had quite a few words to say about the parlous state of our economy and government; and the undue publicity given to that militant communistic minority who seem to be causing most of 'our troubles. Joyce reckoned that Mr. Whitlam ought to receive a copy of the article. Margaret Phillips (daughter of our late mate Len Ryan - BHQ) wrote in from Melbourne to express her support for the sentiments in the article, and advised that her husband, Jack, was going abroad in July, and he hoped to visit Singapore (and the Changi Gaol Chapel) on his way home, in September. Jack is the Assistant Director of Special Services (Special Education) with the Victorian Dept. of Education, and will attend a seminar on the handicapped, visit education centres and prisons all over Europe; and finish up with a seminar on the brilliant child. Margaret also gave some news of the children. Simon and Matthew are at La Trobe University, doing Arts and Agricultural Science respectively. Andrew and Martin are both at St. Kevin's College, and are both in the Cadets; while Martin is in the School Band, where he plays the kettle drum (shades of Grandfather, Len). Ellen and Justin have one more year at Primary School, and Caroline has another two years to go. Margaret spends two and a half days a week teaching - migrant English in a local Primary School. Margaret sent her best wishes to all of Len's old mates. From several of our members we received donations when they sent in their Subs, but they didn't include any news with their remittance. This applied to Jim McIntosh (A Coy) from Ainslie, A.C.T., Frank McDonald (B Coy) from Bankstown, Johnny Parsons (C Coy) from Macquarie Fields and Con Hedwards (C Coy) from Coniston. In view of their generosity, they can hardly be taken to task, but it would have been nice to have some news of how they are getting on. On the other hand, Steve Kirton (HQ Coy) sent in his Subs from Burnaby, Canada, and did include a bit of news. At the time of writing (5/3/75) Steve advised that they were having a mild Winter, and it had followed a very pleasant Summer, with plenty of work in the building trade. However, things were now different, with hordes of people out of work, and prices still going up. Steve was very apprehensive about the future - particularly the ensuing twelve months. Steve sent his regards to all, and hoped to be able to visit Australia early in 1976. Then, we have a group of members who seem determined to maintain a Subs-in-Advance position, but who don't let us have any news of themselves or their families. The way some of them are building up their funds, they have got to stay hale and hearty, to live long enough to cut out the amount standing to their credit. Included in the group were:- Hank Massey (HQ Coy) from Merrylands, Jock Logan (D Coy) from Palm Beach, Qld., Jim Cooper (HQ Coy) from Pymble, Cappy Bligh (HQ Coy) from Vaucluse, Eric Stone (HQ Coy) from Bondi, Dave Swindail (B Coy) from Leichhardt, Charlie Golledge (D Coy) from Lane Cove, Len Hendy (D Coy) from Cammeray, Ray Ferry (B Coy) from Campbelltown, Frank Craven (HQ Coy) from Hurstville, Arch Dickinson (C Coy) from Turramurra, Stuart Plowes (HQ. Coy) from Kemps Creek, Les Perry (D Coy) from Narrandera and Jimmy Strang (C Coy) from Thornleigh. Others, with Subs in Advance remittance, did have a few words to say:- Jock McLean (B Coy) from Strathfield was pretty brief , but he did advise an amendment to his address, and he did send his regards and best wishes to all. Jack Carey (D Coy) also sent his regards from Dundas, and mentioned that he had been pleased to catch up with Carl Odgers (HQ Coy), who was a patient in the R.G.H., when Jack visited there early in December last. Alfie Carroll (D Coy) from Greta was pretty brief, possibly due to the fact that his sister, with whom he stays, was then in hospital with another heart attack, and Alfie was kept rather busy looking after things and visiting her in Hospital. He did mention, however, that he has fully recovered from the crack on the head, but he was keeping well away from slasher mowers. Athol Charlesworth (D Coy) from Leura was much briefer than Alfie, merely mentioning that he had had a visit from Jack and Val Ellis (HQ Coy) in December last; when they had had a good yarn. Frank Webb (HQ Coy) actually put pen to paper and wrote in from Griffith (Ellen usually has to do, those chores for the Webb family). Frank mentioned that he was then (last March) on holidays and was doing a spot of work around their own joint. He said that he was feeling a bit old, and it was about time that he retired from work and lived on the channel bank. Jack O'Malley (A Coy) from Frogmore has got to live at least another ten years to cut out his credit. He did mention that he had a few aches and pains, but really wasn't going too badly. He spent most of his short note complaining about the failure of Dulcie to attend to the cash remitting department of the O'Malley household. Darby Young (HQ Coy) from Ashfield advised in his covering note that he had visited Malaya/Singapore in August last, and he found the itinerary, which was arranged by his Malayan and Chinese friends to be most interesting and enjoyable. He concentrated on the West Coast - from K.L. to Singapore, and spent some time in Batu Pahat; where he was very surprised to discover how clearly some of the locals remembered some of the 2/30th men (even by name), Vince Leonard (HQ Coy) from Fairfield rounded off his remittance with a donation, and managed to advise that he and Peg now have their third qualifying entry in the Grandpa Stakes, with production by their daughter of a son, Christopher Dennis Conwell. He didn't say how he and Peg were keeping, but that is unimportant compared with news of another grandson. Then, we have the group of stalwarts - the wives who send in their husband's Subs. Some of them are pretty busy, and don't have much time for news, like Jessie Bailey, who sent in Gerry's (HQ Coy) Subs from Mount Druitt, and merely added "Gerry is quite well."; and Ruth Mulholland, who sent in Keith's (D Coy) Subs from Narrandera and merely included "Regards to all." Norma Veivers, from Coffs Harbour, did the right thing by Joe (A Coy), and included a donation, which she declared came out of Joe's beer money. Levine Grace sent in Ian's (A Coy) Subs from Jannali, and advised that neither of them has been very well of late. Ian tried to keep plugging away at work, on the advice of his Doctor and the physiotherapist, but it finally got too much for him; and he retired early in February last. He reckons he will now look after Levine, but, with both of them suffering from more or less the same complaints, it is often a case of "The blind leading the blind". However, they both manage to keep their chins up. Gwen Sweeney sent in enough from Hogarth Range to keep Rogo (C Coy) out of trouble for a few years. Things were so crook for beef producers that Rogo decided last February that he would get a job with the people who sold the stuff. So he got a job at the Casino Meat Works, and first day there he dropped a 50lb carton of frozen beef on his big toe; which didn't please him very much. However, nothing was broken, and at last report he was keeping well. Jack Goodwin (HQ Coy) sent in enough from Concord to keep him from worrying for a few years, and advised that his daughter and two grand-daughters had just returned to P.N.G., after spending four months with the grandparents. Jack has managed to keep out of hospital for quite a while, but his wife suffers indifferent health, and her locomotion is pretty poor. Ossie Jackson (D Coy) sent in his Subs from Binna Burra prior to last Christmas and was good enough to let us have some news of some of the boys. At that time, from recent sightings, Ernie Stratford (D Coy), Harry Teasdale (D Coy) and Russ Mackie (HQ Coy) were all well. Ernie McNiven (A Coy) had left Bangalow, and was now residing at Southport, Qld. Ernie's daughter was married recently. (We haven't yet received a change of address Please do so pronto, Ernie - Ed.) Arthur Piper (B Coy) added a sizeable donation to his remittance from Orange, which was received prior to Christmas. Arthur has not been the best of late. The leg which had the blood clot continues to play up, and keeps him rather quiet. He sent his regards to all. Bert Hodge (A Soy) sent in enough from Gilgandra, last December, to keep him out of trouble for quite a few years. Although Bert reckons that his health really isn't too bad, he does admit that his heart won't stand him doing the rounds of the pubs and clubs. Frank Silver (C Coy) from Coalcliff apparently didn't want to run the risk of getting behind with his Subs, so he sent along a remittance to put him in an advance position for the next couple of years. Apart from a bit of trouble now and then, with his bad back, Frank says he is keeping fairly well. Having retired, Frank spends a lot of his time wandering in the Bush and along the beach, gathering agate and other materials. He also indulges in writing poems, and he has been good enough, to send us a sample. LONELINESS Through glades and glens
I've wandered And along the stony
beach, to ponder, Now the caressing sun is
sinking So, down by the waves, to
ponder there He knows my heart would
fill Supplement with MAKAN No. 223 Jul/Aug 1975 SOME NOTES ON Treatment - Page 2 (Although every care has been taken in the compilation and publication of the material contained in this Supplement, it is published only as a general guide to conditions and rates of Pensions etc applying at this date, and more particularly as they apply to Members of the Association and Next-of-Kin, and without responsibility.) TREATMENT All Australian veterans who were prisoners-of-war are now eligible for free Repatriation treatment services, including hospital, dental and paramedical services and, subject to a small contribution by the veterans, treatment in nursing homes. All our members, as ex-Ps.O.W., are now entitled to receive free treatment as specified. The previously unaccepted disability for which you could not receive free treatment will now be accepted for treatment, as will any other complaint you may contract. But it must be remembered that acceptance for treatment does not mean automatic acceptance for tension entitlement. It will still be necessary to follow the usual procedure, as formerly, to have any disability accepted for pension purposes, even though free treatment is being received for it. Medical and hospital treatment benefits are available only from date of application, so don't try to beat the gun by popping yourself into hospital` to' have some complaint fixed up. Correct procedure must be observed in all matters. By now, all of our members should have been contacted by Repat. and have had an L.M.O. appointed as their doctor. If no such advice has been received, write immediately to the Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Repatriation and Compensation in your Capital City, including the usual particulars (File No. - if known - No., Rank, Name in full, Unit, Place of Capture and Date) and request that you be considered as eligible for free treatment as outlined. Repat. will take it from there. With the introduction of this scheme by Repat. and Medibank by the Federal Government, members should also examine the position regarding their contributions to Hospital and Medical Benefits Funds. If they no longer have dependant children at home, their acceptance for free treatment by Repat. will mean that they no longer require to contribute on a family basis for themselves and their wife - a single contribution for their wife only is all that is necessary. However, where there are other dependants, the family contribution will require to continue. At this point of time (June 1975) it is not possible to generalise on the effects of Medibank, as only some of the States will have entered the Hospital side of the scheme by 1st July, 1975. Advertisements by Hospital and Medical Benefits Funds have also appeared in the Press advising contributors to carry on with their particular fund to cover services not covered by Medibank, such as dental and optical, and intermediate or private wards in hospital. If they have not already done so, members are urged to examine the whole position thoroughly, ascertain exactly what services are covered by Medibank, in their State, after 1st July, and what services they desire to cover through a Hospital and Medical Benefits Fund. General Since production, and through the very kind assistance of Officers of the Repatriation Department, the opportunity was taken to have the information given in the Supplement checked over for obvious inaccuracies. Although several suggestions were made as to amendments to the wording and additional information in several places, the Supplement was only intended to be in the nature of "Notes for Guidance", and it was not desired to re-print it (which would have been necessary) to include those amendments; which did not alter, basically, the information contained in it. However, some figures quoted and statements made were incorrect or misleading, and these do require correction. These amendments are furnished below, and it is suggested that the information be gummed on the vacant spaces of the pages indicated. They have been printed on white paper, so that attention will be drawn to them when reading the respective articles. SERVICE PENSIONS AND THE MEANS TEST Service Pensions are now payable, free of the Means Test, to all eligible persons of 70 years of age and over; and for those who have attained the age of 60 years, but are under the age of 70 years, 50% of War Pension received by them is now exempt income for. the purpose of the Means Test. Over the years there has also been some liberalisation of the Means Test, and since we all fulfil the first qualification of having served in a theatre of war, all those who have reached the age of 60 years, or those under that age who can no longer work and, upon application, are accepted by Repat as permanently unemployable, ought to examine their position with a view to qualifying for a Service Pension, or a part Service Pension. The maximum fortnightly rates are now $60.00 each for married couples and $72.00 for single persons; and if these maximum rates are payable, a Supplementary Pension may be granted to pensioners paying rent, provided they have no more than $12.00 other income. A further allowance of up to $14.00 per fortnight may be paid for dependant children. Subject to a Means Test, Fringe Benefits may also be granted. The rate of Service
Pension payable is determined by a Means Test, which takes into account
two factors: When these are determined and added together they become the Means as Assessed (M.A.A.); and this is calculated on a fortnightly basis. In the case of married couples, the income and the assets of each must be added together. (a) Actual Income: This is arrived at by adding to any gross fortnightly wages received; one half of all fortnightly War Pensions received. From this total, an amount of $12.00 per fortnight is deductible for each dependant child. Any income received from investments is disregarded and if any superannuation is being received, it may be converted to an asset, with more favourable treatment being given as the age of the pensioner increases. (b) Deemed Income: This is arrived at by totalling all assets such as money in the Bank, the surrender value in excess of $1,500 of all Life Assurance Policies, the converted value of any superannuation, investments in shares, bonds, debentures and other property; but excluding any property owned by either husband or wife which is the permanent home and is actually lived in, together with the furniture in it, and any motor car which is used for pleasure only. To convert assets to a Deemed Income, the total asset value is reduced by $400, and every complete $20 of the balance is multiplied by 7.5¢ to produce the amount of fortnightly income (In the case of married couples, it is necessary to halve their total asset value). Thus, a couple with a total assessed asset value of $10,000, or $5,000 each, reduce to $4,500 after deducting $400. This gives 230 complete units of $20., worth 7.50 each, or $17.25 per fortnight. Thus, the Deemed Income for both of them from the $10,000 is $34.50 per fortnight. This figure, when added to the previously obtained Actual Income, becomes the Means as Assessed; and is the basis on which a Service Pension is calculated. This all sounds very complicated, and an example may be of assistance in explanation of the foregoing. Let us suppose that a member has been granted a War Pension of 100%. He is 60 years of age and has a wife and a dependant child still at school. He and his wife own their own home, in which they live, and a motor car which is used for pleasure only. He has retired from work and he received a lump sum on retirement which, with his savings, he has invested; so that the total of Bank account and investments is $10,000; from which he receives an income of $30 per fortnight. He further supplements his income by part-time light work, which earns him $40 per fortnight. The age of the wife does not have any bearing on the application. On applying for a Service Pension, his Means as Assessed would be arrived at as follows - calculated on a fortnightly basis: 100% War Pension
$56.00 Wages (Gross, including
Tax if deducted at source) (a) Actual Income 60.05 Total Assessed Assets $10,000 (income from which is disregarded) (b) Deemed Income 34.50 MEANS AS ASSESSED $94.55 This would give an entitlement of a Service Pension of $60.00 each, i.e. $120.00 per fortnight for husband and wife, plus an additional child allowance of $1.23, payable to the husband – a total of $121.23 per fortnight. As a further example: - A T.P.I. pensioner and wife with no dependant children; who have investments totalling $25,000 which earn them $80 per fortnight, apart from their home and car, would be eligible for a part Service Pension of $73.06 per fortnight. Fringe Benefits: The position for entitlement for Fringe Benefits, i.e. free medical and hospital treatment, fare and rate concessions, and telephone rental rebates etc., depends upon application of an old Means Test (slightly less favourable than that for calculation of the Pension) under which all of the War Pension received and any Superannuation actually paid forms part of Assessable Income. Where the Means as Assessed under this system is $66 per fortnight, or less, for a single person, or $115. per fortnight, or less, for a married couple, entitlement to fringe benefits may be granted; provided the total value of Assessed Assets come within stipulated margins It naturally follows that if a Service Pension is granted, any subsequent alteration in earnings or assets must be advised immediately to Repat., as the Service Pension payable could be affected. Failure to do so is an offence. All applications for the granting of a Service Pension must be made in writing to the Deputy Commissioner of Repatriation in the Capital City of the State in which the member resides - in N.S.W.,: to Box 3994, G.P.O., SYDNEY. 2001 - furnishing full name and address, as well as service number; rank and unit. However, should any member have any doubts about the foregoing, or would like some advice on a proposed application (e.g. the conversion of a Superannuation payment to an asset in calculating the Means as Assessed) if he cares to furnish full particulars to the Chief Correspondent, the latter will endeavour to sort out the problem and provide an answer. Remember, the granting of a Service Pension, or Part Service Pension by Repat is not 'just another handout' it is a just entitlement. These latter remarks apply, in principle, to the Age Pension. In the case of a member who is between 60 and 70 years of age and who is disqualified from obtaining a Pension by reason of the Means Test, but whose wife has attained the age of 70, the wife should apply for the Age Pension, free of the Means Test, using the form which is obtainable from a Post Office. It also follows, as a natural corollary, that when a member, previously disqualified by the Means Test, attains the age of 70 years and applies for a Service (or an Age Pension - the amount payable is the same) free of the Means Test, no Pension is payable for the wife until she attains the age of 70 years. ASSESSMENT APPEAL TRIBUNAL This Tribunal differs, both in composition and functions, from an Entitlement Appeal Tribunal, and should not be confused with it. Its members are not members of the Repatriation Department or Commission and they consist of a Chairman who is a returned soldier, has had legal experience as a Barrister or a Solicitor, and has been selected by the Minister from a panel submitted by the R.S.L. His appointment is for a period up to five years, and he is assisted by two other members who are doctors, from private medical practice. Unlike the Chairman, the doctors are not permanent members of the Tribunal, and can change from day to day. They are required to have the necessary knowledge of the nature of the incapacity which is the subject of the appeal. The function of the Tribunal is to decide appeals lodged by members against assessments by Repatriation Board or Commission of the rate of pension payable for accepted disabilities. It is not concerned with argument as to whether a disability that has been rejected by Repat should be accepted as war caused - that is a function of another body, the Entitlement Appeal Tribunal. (see following). Whenever your pension is reviewed by Repat., you will be advised of the rate decided upon and of your right of appeal. If you feel that the assessment with respect to your accepted disabilities, is inadequate, you should exercise that right of appeal which, if pursued to the utmost, will result in your appearance before an Assessment Appeal Tribunal. You will be advised of the date set for the hearing and of the fact that you may, if you wish, appoint an Advocate (who must not be a lawyer) to assist you with your appeal. Since one of the objects of our Constitution is to encourage members to join the R.S.L., it is assumed that you are a member of the local Sub-Branch, and it is suggested that you discuss the matter of your appeal with the Sub-Branch Welfare Officer and nominate "The RSL Representative" as your Advocate. The R.S.L. Representative will attend at the appointed place, but he will not normally accompany you into the hearing of your appeal, unless there is some special reason which requires him to help you tell your story. It is important to remember that at hearings of this Tribunal your Advocate is not there to make eloquent speeches on your behalf - he is basically there to advise you and to rehearse you prior to your appearance. It is imperative that you attend the hearing in person and that you tell your story and answer any questions simply and truthfully. You will find the atmosphere at the Tribunal informal and friendly, if you let it be. It is quite wrong to adopt the attitude that you are there to fight the Tribunal - you are appealing to its members against a decision by Repat. as to the amount of Pension which you should receive on account of your accepted disabilities. The Tribunal is already aware of Repat's reasons for setting the rate of Pension (Repat. will not be represented at the hearing) and they are concerned primarily with hearing your side of the story, making an independent examination and assessing what they consider the rate of Pension should be. As a general rule you will be asked to describe symptoms of your accepted disabilities, how they affect your ability to work; and how they interfere with your home life, recreation and social activities. If you are employed, you will be asked how much time you have lost over the past twelve months and the reasons for the loss of time - a certificate from your employer in that regard could prove helpful. After completion of this period of questions and answers and statements by you, you will be asked to submit to a medical examination in an adjoining room; and that concludes the hearing. The whole procedure is likely to take about half an hour. Official notification of the Tribunal's decision will be posted to you promptly (within a day or two) and notice of the decision will also be sent to Repat. Dept. The decision is binding on both you and the Dept. for a period of six months; unless the Tribunal advises that the "binding period" is otherwise, or your condition worsens during the binding period. After expiration of that period you will be at liberty to apply to the Repat. Dept. for review of your pension rate and, likewise, the Dept. is at liberty to call you for pension review. You are eligible for defrayment of certain expenses incurred through attending the hearing, such as fares and meal allowance - the Tribunal Clerk will provide the answers to any queries in that regard. ENTITLEMENT APPEAL TRIBUNAL The members of this Tribunal are not members of the Repat. Dept, or Commission and they consist of a Chairman, who requires to have had legal experience; and two other members who require to be returned soldiers and are selected from a panel submitted to the Minister by organisations representing returned soldiers. All members are appointed for a term of up to five years, and are eligible for re-appointment. The functions of the Tribunal are to determine appeals lodged with it by any person who has claimed a pension or other benefit under the Repat. Act arising out of the incapacity or death of a member of the Forces (and ex-serviceman) and whose claim has been refused by the Repat. Commission on the grounds that the member is not suffering from any incapacity, or on the grounds: (a) that the incapacity or death of the member has not resulted from any occurrence that happened during his war service or did not arise out of or is not attributable to his war service; or (b) that the incapacity from which the member is suffering or from which he has died has not been contributed to in any material degree, or has not been aggravated, by the conditions of his war service. The Tribunal is accordingly not concerned with disputes as to the amount of Pension being paid for disabilities already accepted, but whether a disability, which has been rejected by the Repat. Commission, should be accepted as being due to war service. Should it reverse a decision by the Commission, and accept a disability as being due to war service, this Tribunal does not direct, nor is it concerned with the assessment by the Commission of the amount of Pension, if any, to be paid with respect to that particular disability - any dispute in that regard could be ultimately the subject of an appeal to an Assessment Appeal Tribunal. A copy of the Board’s ‘Reason for Decision’ will be included. Whenever a claim is lodged with Repatriation, by a member for acceptance of a disability as being due to war service, or by the widow of a member for acceptance of her late husband's death as being due to war service (i.e. for a War Widow's Pension) the claim is dealt with firstly by the Repat. Board. If it is declined at this point, the member, or widow, will be advised of the decision, and of his or her right of appeal to the Commission. A copy of the Board’s ‘Reason for Decision’ will be included. The right of appeal should be exercised, and though it is not completely necessary to support the appeal, any fresh evidence which is considered to have a material bearing on the case (particularly certificates by a medical specialist) should be forwarded with the appeal. If it is declined at this point the member, or widow, will be advised of the decision, and of his or her right of appeal to an Entitlement Appeal Tribunal Advice will also be furnished that he or she may appoint an Advocate (who must not be a legal man) to assist with any such appeal. It is essential that an Advocate be appointed;- and in the case of a member, who should have already discussed the case with a Sub-Branch Welfare Officer at the time of appeal to the Commission, it is suggested that he nominate "The R.S.L. Advocate". In the case of a widow, who will have, most likely, lodged her original claim through Legacy (please see article on Legacy following) she will nominate "The Legacy Advocate". Both the R.S.L. and Legacy have specialists who are well equipped and experienced in the handling of these appeals, and it is certainly a job for an experienced person. In due course, and prior to the hearing, the Advocate will receive a summary of the member's file, which has been compiled by Repat. Dept. and he may request the furnishing of additional evidence, particularly by the way of medical certificates, for submission in support of the appeal. Although the Act provides that the benefit of any doubt shall be given to the appellant and the onus of proof for rejection lies with the Department, it is important to remember that evidence of a 'hearsay' or flippant nature is of no use whatsoever. Any evidence submitted must be decided to have a material bearing on the case; and that submitted by qualified medical authorities, particularly opinions by specialists, is probably the most effective. The Advocate will appear at the hearing and will conduct the case. for the appellant, who is naturally requested to attend, and should attend to answer any queries which may arise during the course of the hearing; which normally is not of any lengthy duration. As with the Assessment Appeal Tribunal, the atmosphere is friendly and informal and there is no question of the appellant having to fight the Tribunal, the members of which are there to help him or her. The decision of the Tribunal is advised to both the appellant and Repat. Commission, and although the Tribunal will give the reason for making an adverse decision, no appeal is allowed against such a decision, but provision is made for the appeal to be re-opened if any further evidence becomes available which is considered material to and as having a substantial bearing upon the appellant's claim. The appellant is eligible for defrayment of certain expenses incurred through attending the hearing, such as fares and meal allowance - the Tribunal Clerk will provide the answers to any queries in that regard. LEGACY Legacy comprises a body of returned ex-servicemen who are pledged to assist the widows and children of deceased returned ex-servicemen. With Clubs established in the larger towns and cities and associated groups throughout remaining areas, and with a wide diversity of membership, Legacy is particularly well equipped to handle the problems which can arise in a family following the death of the husband. Widows of our deceased members are strongly advised to enrol with Legacy (through the nearest Group or Club) and to lodge, through Legacy, an application for a War Widow's Pension. Legacy are particularly equipped to handle these applications, especially in cases where an appeal to the Tribunal becomes involved. In the case of a T.P.I., a War Widows Pension is granted fairly promptly, as a rule, but in other cases it could well occur that the initial application is rejected by the Repat. Board. In all cases, an Appeal should then be lodged with the Repat. Commission and, if disallowed at that point, a further Appeal should then be lodged with the Tribunal. Without in any way desiring to raise hopes, unnecessarily, of any widows, this advice is given in the firm belief that the Repatriation Act has been set up specifically to protect the interests of ex-servicemen and. their dependants and has the necessary machinery to deal with applications of this nature, at no cost to the widow. As laymen, none of us is qualified to assess whether or not, the death of any of our members is attributable to his war service - it is preferable to have the experts, through Repat., decide the question, and so dispel any doubts which may arise. Apart from Pension matters, Legacy cares generally for the dependants of deceased Ex-Servicemen and particularly where children are involved, their advice and assistance are invaluable. Legacy also has knowledge of all the benefits to which a widow and her children are entitled, and they make sure that they are received. FUNERAL ALLOWANCE If the deceased was (a) a T.P.I., or (b) died in an R.G.H. Hospital, or (c) died in a Hospital where maintenance on his behalf was paid by Repat., or (d) his death is subsequently accepted as Due to War Service:- A Funeral Allowance of $100. is available on application to the Repat, Dept. In some cases, and subject to a means test, this Allowance is also paid by Repat, where the deceased does not fulfil the previous conditions Some Undertakers have the application forms on hand, but if it is not readily available, a letter to Repat will initiate the claim. It is important to remember that although there are no R.G.H.'s in Country Areas, it is quite likely that the deceased could have been in, say a District Hospital where maintenance was being paid by Repat., so the application should be made as a general rule. WAR GRAVES COMMISSION If the deceased was a T.P.I., or his death is subsequently accepted as Due to War Service, The Commonwealth War Graves Commission will provide:- (a) If the grave is his only and unfurnished:- a full memorial; (b) If he is buried in a family plot:- A memorial bronze plaque, 10" x 6" for affixing to the existing furnishings; (c) If a Cremation:- A niche and a niche plate at 'the Crematorium. In addition to the foregoing, an official plaque is also placed on the Memorial at the War Graves Cemetery at Rookwood (in the case of N.S.W.). Under normal circumstances, Repat. advise the War Graves Commission of the deceased's eligibility, and the Commission then communicate with the Next-of-Kin; but it is probably advisable to make application for what is desired, by letter to Repat., who will then pass it on to the Commission. In the case of a T.P.I., it usually takes at least a month before the various Departments have liaised, and word is received by the Next-of-Kin from the Commission; but where an application is lodged for a War Widows Pension, it can take many months (particularly if Appeals are involved) before a decision is reached as to acceptability of the death as Due to War Service, or not. The War Graves Commission cannot make any reimbursement for any expenses already incurred on memorials etc, so it is important that it should be explained to the Crematorium or Cemetery Authorities etc that application has been made; and no expenses on these matters should be incurred, pending a decision by Repat/War Graves Commission. Back to 1975 index or Main Index |