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Makan No. 225
Nov/Dec, 1975

OFFICIAL JOURNAL 2/30 Bn. A. I. F. ASSOCIATION

Subscription Rate: $1.50 per Year

Registered for Posting as Periodical: Category A

 

COMMITTEE

SEASONAL GREETINGS

The Festive Season is with us once again, and once again my wife and I welcome the occasion to extend to members of the 2/30 Bn. Association and their wives and families, including the wives and families of those members who are no longer with us, our very best wishes for a very Happy Christmas and a New Year of health and prosperity.

We appreciate greatly the efforts made by all in maintaining the spirit and interest in the Battalion, and we trust that this will long continue.

George Ramsay.
PATRON

It does not seem twelve months since I last expressed these sentiments. I suppose that indicates I am getting older - but fast - as our American cousins would say.

In what I hope is for most of us the early afternoon of our days, my wish is that for those off you who still enjoy good health, that blessing will continue and that for those not so fortunate the fortitude that brought us through those difficult days will never leave us.

My wife and family join me in wishing you and yours the Happiness that Christmas traditionally brings with it and a New Year that will cement the ties that bind us.

Arch Thorburn
PRESIDENT

The Editor would like to express his sincere appreciation of the kindness of all those who have assisted him throughout the Year - particularly his 'Staff', for their co-operation and understanding, and the contributors of articles and news items; with a special 'Thank You' for the long-suffering, underpaid secretary/wives, whose letters are the life blood of MAKAN.

The Office Boy, the Assistant Boy and the Typist join with the Editor and extend to all their Readers their best wishes for a bright and Happy Christmas and Good Health and Prosperity throughout the Year to come.

Phil Schofield, EDITOR
Les Hall, THE BOY
Alex Dandie, ASST. BOY
Honey Graham, TYPIST

SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR 1976

Members are reminded that Subscriptions for 1976 are now due and are payable on the basis of:

Ordinary Member: 50¢ Memb. Fee, $1.50 MAKAN Sub., Total $2.00. Life Member  $1.50 MAKAN Sub.

With this issue of MAKAN each member will receive appropriate advice, to suit his particular case, indicating (1) Transfer has been effected from his Subs in Advance A/c to meet his Subs for 1976; or (2) his Subs in Advance A/c does not have quite enough funds to meet his Subs for 1976 and a further remittance is required to meet the balance; or (3) a full remittance is required to meet his Subs for 1976; or (4) A receipt for Subs. paid.

In all cases where a payment is required to be made, it is essential that the advice which you receive is returned with the remittance. This will save your Chief Correspondent a lot of worry and time in chasing through the records to discover in which category your remittance requires to be applied.

At the risk of being accused of harping on the necessity for promptness of payment, your Chief Correspondent would again remind you of the Postal Regulations which require it, if we are to retain our Category "A" Registration. If we lose that Registration, the cost of posting each issue of MAKAN would increase to almost seven times what it is now (3½ times what the rate will increase to on 1/2/76). We could not afford that increase without a substantial increase in the Annual Subscription Rate, so please heed the plea and respond promptly.

Please note that due to the increased cost of ordinary postage (18c an article is really a bit steep) receipts for Subs etc. received will be sent out with the next MAKAN to issue after the remittance comes to hand. Since the next issue will not be produced until the beginning of April, it will be a few months before the receipt reaches the sender. This also raises the point that a further reminder re Subs will not be given, as formerly, at the end of January; and to wait until April for a reminder is just too late for Registration purposes. If you have received a request for a remittance, will you please respond promptly?

GEMAS DAY, 1976

The Commemoration will be held at the Memorial at Head Quarters 17 R.N.S.W.R, 2 Suakin Street, PYMBLE on Sunday, 11th January 1976 at 3.00 p.m.

Arrangements are now being completed with the C.O. of 17 R.N.S.W.R and precise details will be furnished in a special MAKAN to Metropolitan Members and Next-of-Kin, which will be sent out early in January. However, it is expected that proceedings will be very much the same as those adopted for the last occasion, and along the following lines:

We will gather as a family (and it is hoped that all children, grandchildren and friends will be included) prior to 3.00 p.m. for the simple Ceremony of laying a wreath on behalf of the Association (plus any other tributes which individuals may desire to place), the sounding of the Last Post and Reveille and the recitation of the Ode. There will be no speeches.

We will then all adjourn to the Drill Hall for afternoon tea, and with respect to the latter:- Tea, milk, sugar, cups etc, will be provided, but each Family Group attending is asked to bring along a "little something" to eat; which we propose to aggregate and place on tables for all to partake of. We do not anticipate nor desire a sumptuous repast - just a "cuppa" and a bite to eat. Any unaccompanied males, or others who find it a bit awkward to bring something along, are asked please not to worry, as judging by last years effort, there is sure to be plenty to go around. Soft drinks will be provided for all the children attending.

This is our most important Family Gathering of the year, and as there is ample shelter available, the Commemoration will definitely be held on Sunday, 11th January, irrespective of weather conditions. It is hoped that our Piper, Jim Webster, will be able to attend this year, to supplement the 17 R.N.S.W.R Pipers and render another solo item.

Please reserve the date now, so that you will be sure to be in attendance on Sunday, 11th January, 1976, at Pymble.

ANNUAL REUNION DINNER - SYDNEY

The Dinner was held on 22nd November last at the Anzac Memorial Club, North Sydney and, despite a substantial drop in attendance, those who did turn up voted it a complete success. The food and service at the Club were really excellent and the Elizabeth Room, which we have occupied on the last two occasions, is ideal for our purposes.

The lower attendance meant fewer Long-Distance Runners, but we were very pleased to welcome Neil Huntley from Port Macquarie and Graham McLeod and Wally Scott from the Illawarra.

Following the Toast to "Fallen Comrades" and the recitation of The Ode by Noel Johnston, the Toast of the Evening, "The Regiment" was entrusted to Johnnie Parsons. In his pleasing and capable style, Johnnie let us share with him his thoughts on some of the events and personalities of those earlier days of the Battalion, and he received immediate and enthusiastic approval to couple with The Regiment the name of our Patron, Colonel George Ramsay.

Our Patron was obviously moved by the Tribute paid to him by Johnnie during the course of his speech, and by the coupling of his name with The Regiment; and in his response to the Toast he expressed his deep appreciation of the honour accorded him. He paid tribute to all its members, who made the Regiment what it proved to be, and he expressed his appreciation of the continuing good work of the Executive and all those who have helped to make our Association a vital and worthwhile organisation.

Following the formal proceedings, groups circulated freely and reminiscences, 'do you remembers' and tall stories flowed well into the evening.

NORTHERN RIVERS BRANCH Ex-P.O.W. ASSOCIATION REUNION - GRAFTON

Our Northern Rivers Correspondent reports:

Despite adverse weather conditions, a happy gathering attended the 14th Annual Reunion Dinner of the Northern Rivers Branch of the N.S.W. Ex P.O.W. Association. Visitors were present from Maclean, Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Newcastle and Sydney. A delicious four course dinner at the Grafton District Services Club followed a Wreath-laying ceremony at the Grafton Cenotaph.

2/30th Bn. members and wives present were; John and Dulcie Korsch, Harry and Ethel Rhodes, Arthur Roberts, Jack and Iris Collins, Merle Rockett, Jack Newton, Jimmy and Margaret Morgan, Vera and Bob Newman, and Norm Lee, with apologies from Joe and Norma Veivers, and Fred and Jean Winters.

Official guests included the State President of the Association, Mr. Frank Casley, State Committee Member Mr. Bill Winter and his wife Margaret, and representatives and wives from Grafton R.S.L; South Grafton R.S.L., and Legacy.

Branch President John Korsch again capably chaired the proceedings and expressed regret that due to the recent political upheaval it was deemed unwise to accommodate a Guest Speaker this year.

Lucky prizes were won by Ethel Snook and Clarrie Maunder. Weather conditions did improve over the weekend and thankfully the flood threat eased. Not so the train service; however, this problem was eventually solved more or less satisfactorily. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year.

PURPLE AND GOLD CHRISTMAS PARTY

Our Social Reporter reports:

The Purple and Gold Christmas Afternoon Tea Party, held on Tuesday, 2nd December at the Indian Tea Centre, was indeed a happy occasion, The gathering consisted of the Wife of our Patron, Chubbie Ramsay, Margaret Mitchell, Persia (Lady) Galleghan, Wilga Mitchell, Betty Ford, Louie Musgrave, Olive Parish, Ruth Purvis, Olga Sullivan, Jean Wallace, Betty Pryde, Mildred Collett and her sister, Mrs. Howe, Pat Nossiter and her daughter, Margaret Taylor, and Pat's delightful little granddaughter.

The numbers were down a little, due to prior commitments and to sickness. Some of the old regulars who sent in apologies were greatly missed. These included Betty Hale, Janet Johnston, Cecilie Boss, Hilda Grossmith, Daphne Thorburn, Diana Thorburn, Sonia Lamble, Enid Morrison and Doris Dougall.

Consequent to the efforts of Margaret Mitchell, the table was most decorative - gold lilies, purple serviettes, presents of purple soap wrapped in gold paper. Added to this was the Christmas cake, attractively decorated in purple and gold inscriptions. An expression of sincere thanks was given to our Patron, Colonel George Ramsay, who once again donated the cake.

Margaret Mitchell spoke, conveying the feeling of all the ladies, of the late Gai Jenkins' efforts over the years in keeping together the ladies of the Purple and Gold Club, and how sadly Gai was missed. Margaret also spoke of the 'phone call of good wishes from Doris Dougall (known to all over the years as Doris Hendy). Now living at Nuffield Village, she was unable to be at the afternoon tea, due to illness. All present signed a Christmas Card, which was sent to Doris.

Thanks were expressed to the Executive of 2/30 Bn. Association, for donating the flowers and other items, and for their thoughtfulness in sending Greetings contained in a Purple and Gold Christmas Card.

All joined in the feeling of appreciation to Margaret Mitchell for arranging the luncheon and her thoughtfulness with the decorations and the gift and greeting ticket to each one present. Thanks were also expressed to Wilga Mitchell, who assisted her, and acted as "Treasurer".

All present were very pleased to see photos of the wedding of Mildred Collett's grand-daughter, and of the inscription and the photo of Brigadier Sir Frederick Galleghan, which is displayed in the London War Museum.

All looked forward to the Christmas Party in 1976, and hoped that circumstances would permit more wives, widows, mothers, friends and next-of-kin of the 2/30th (Purple and Gold) Battalion) attending.

AMENDMENTS TO LIST OF MEMBERS AND NEXT-OF-KIN

In the firm belief that few, if any, would have made all the amendments to the List, as advised from time to time, a complete list of all amendments to the Alphabetical Section is furnished with this issue of MAKAN. They comprise the whole of the alterations since the List was published in October, 1974, and a further List, showing Amendments to the Geographical Section will be included with next issue of MAKAN.

The List is included as a centre fold, but it has been printed on one side of the paper only and in such a fashion that it can be easily removed without damaging any of the printing. The idea behind this was that anyone really interested in having an up-to-date List could cut the strip from the sheet and gum it over the address etc. to be amended in his copy of the List. If that presents too much of a task, it is suggested that the sheet be placed with the List and that an asterisk be placed against each name on the List which appears on the sheet.

FATHER OF A THOUSAND SONS

Also enclosed with this issue is a personal Circular from Stan Arneil concerning publication by him of a 16 page biography of B.J., a digest of which appeared in the Reader's Digest, April 1975 issue. The booklet is being printed for sale on a private subscription basis, for members of our Association and next-of-kin.

The Order Form on the Circular should be completed, detached and forwarded direct to Stan, accompanied by the appropriate remittance; but as a service to Readers and to our well-beloved founder of MAKAN (and its Editor for so many years) the Order Form and remittance may be included in your envelope sending in your Subs and/or letter advising items of news. The Chief Correspondent will ensure that such enclosures are passed to Stan, but it is essential that the following procedure is observed by those wishing to purchase the booklet:

(1) The Order Form must be used and completed in full.

(2) A separate Cheque, Postal Order etc. for the exact amount of the number of copies ordered must accompany the Form.

Please do not complicate our simple book-keeping system by enclosing one cheque etc. to cover both Subs and Booklets.

WHODUNIT?

The Chief Correspondent received through the Post, on 27th November last, an envelope addressed personally to him. Enclosed in the envelope was a Postal Order, made payable to Phil Schofield, for $5.00. The Postal Order was purchased in Casino on or about 18th November (date is not clear) and the envelope was posted in Casino on Tuesday, 25th November. There were no covering instructions enclosed, nor was there any indication on the envelope as to whom the Sender may have been.

Since the Chief Correspondent firmly believes that the $5.00 is intended for Association funds, will the Sender please advise him by return on whose behalf, and how the funds are to be used.

FAR NORTH COAST BRANCH - Ex-P.O.W. ASSOCIATION REUNION DINNER

Unfortunately, we have not received any information concerning the above, and the advices in last MAKAN are repeated as a further reminder, and so that a note may be taken of the date, to ensure a good attendance at this popular event.

Date: 14th February, 1976.
Place: Northern Auditorium, LISMORE R.S.L. Club.
Wreath Laying: 5.30 p.m.; Dinner: 6.30 p.m.

Cost of the Dinner has not been advised to MAKAN, but it is understood that it is quite likely to be less than $5.00 per head. Wives, widows and Next-of-Kin are of course welcome to attend.

Bob Robinson, C/- Post Office, SOUTH LISMORE. 2480. is Honorary Secretary, and any further information may be obtained from him.

MEANDERING WITH THE MACS

In March last, Ernie and Phyllis McNiven left Southport, Q. for a trip by car to Southern and Inland regions. Big Mac has been kind enough to let us have an interesting account of the trip, during the course of which, contact was made with some of our members. We quote from his letter:

Travelling down the New England Highway, we spent, a couple of hours at Armidale with Ross and Molly Madden, both of whom were well. We moved on to Tamworth, but no accommodation was available, so we called round and saw Phil Bailey at his home.

About 20 miles out of Parkes, a semi put a batch of scones through our windscreen, and we had to spend a day in Parkes while it was replaced. We missed Brian Hayes - he had left, the day before, on holidays; and we had to go to the Hospital to see Ernie Willis. He had a slight heart attack the night before, but had come through pretty well. He said he was quite good enough to leave Hospital, but knew that Doc would not let him go.

On to West Wyalong, where we called to see Jack Folkard, but he was out on a property, building a home. Monica said that he was keeping well.

We called and saw Keith Mulholland at Narrandera. He was having a bit of time off from work, so we were taken on a Royal Tour of the City. It was good to have someone show us ground - much easier than looking for the interesting places ourselves.

From there, we headed towards Victoria, staying at a place called Tocumwal on the border. During the War, the Yanks had a Liberator Base there. Most of the hangers are now used by farmers as storage sheds, but some of them, and some of the runways, are still looked after. The next Australian Gliding Championships are to be held there - they say it is the best gliding area in Australia.

From there we went to Shepparton, then turned and headed for Adelaide. It is a good trip, along the Murray Valley Highway.

We saw peaches and pears being tinned at Kyabram, and condensed milk at Tongala. Swan Hill is also an interesting place.

On arriving at Mildura, we decided to have a look at Broken Hill. Crossing the border again, we stayed at another small town called Wentworth. Main points of interest were the old gaol and a Pioneer Arts and Crafts Museum.

Between Wentworth and Broken Hill is just open country, except for a couple of huge lakes, which cover miles of land. We were lucky to see them, as they dry up during very dry weather.

No need to say anything about Broken Hill - Jack Fell did that. The only thing he missed was a tour of inspection of one of the mines.

From there, we headed for Port Augusta, and the most interesting part of the trip was through Horrocks Pass. From the Port, we headed for Adelaide. Just out of Adelaide, a man has set up an Arizona Ranch Garden, which is worth anyone's time to browse through - it is mainly constructed of Cacti plants.

A visit to the Barossa Valley whilst in Adelaide is a must (especially for the wine drinkers). There are numerous wineries for inspection, and on completion, you are taken to the cellar, and can taste all the wines in stock if you wish.

After leaving Adelaide, we went to Woodside and said hello to Dr. Jutner (pronounced Yutner) - some of the boys may remember him. He was well and was leaving next month for a trip Overseas. He told me that Dr. J.J. Cahill was not too good and was hitting the bottle pretty hard.

We stayed at a Caravan Park alongside the Lake at Mount Gambier The lake was a lovely blue, and the others around it were also very nice.

The drive from Adelaide to Melbourne just has to be done along the Coast, and not the Highway. It is a drive worth anyone's time, especially those who enjoy ocean views. One stretch in particular goes for 29 miles along the sea front - in places, you could throw your fishing line in from the car. Any golfer could have a grand time, as there are golf courses everywhere. The gardens in some of the towns were beautiful.

From Melbourne, we went to Ballarat for a couple of days. Every year, during March, they hold a Begonia Festival in the Park. They have a large building full of Begonias, and you would not see any better in the world. The Park is also packed with flowers, especially Dahlias; and there are lovely gardens all over the town.

Going out of Ballarat, towards Adelaide, they have a Memorial called Victory Arch. It goes right across the road, and from it, for 14 miles they have a row of trees on each side of the road, called an Avenue of Honour. The Arch was built by a Ballarat Firm after the 14-18 war, and the workers of the firm planted a tree for each person who lost their lives. Altogether there are 3,900 trees planted and each tree has a plaque on it or so I was told, as we did not go right along the drive.

In the town itself, they have reconstructed a mining town - as Ballarat was in the old days - it was worth seeing. They have a mine going under the hill, and when we walked into it, I thought I was back in Johore. The damn thing was built just as we constructed the underground tunnels over there - round logs for uprights and slats on the top.

You can also pan for gold if you get a licence, and you really can get a few specks. They say there is still plenty of gold there, but the price does not make it worth while to mine.

The Eureka Stockade is still there - and just out of the Town they have constructed an old English Castle. It is called Kryall Castle, and it is an exact replica - even having Knights in Armour to fight mock battles on horseback. Tourists are well catered for.

Back to Melbourne, but we only stayed for a day as time was running out. Once again we travelled via the Coast - even went down to Wilson's Promontory. There is also some nice scenery and views along the Coast. From Bega, through Cooma to Canberra; then to the Coast and home,  just 5,071 miles after leaving.

THE ANNUAL REUNION, 1975

I enjoyed the reunion. Good nosh, good drink, and superb company in very pleasant surroundings is a recipe for a memorable time. Speaking for myself (but secure in the knowledge that all who attended would agree) I'd like to congratulate those responsible for the organisation. I'd regard it as a smooth, professional job and well up to the standards of the 2/30th, which I feel is high praise.

It is regrettable that more weren't able to attend, and whilst I know there would be good reasons why they didn't, personally I missed so many faces I'd have enjoyed seeing.

But we may as well face it. We're aging, physically if not mentally, Well, it's something that comes to everyone. The physical part, I mean. But isn't it gratifying how we retain our memories? I believe that while there is still one of us left, because of the way we can recall so many of those things that happened so long ago then it is certain the 30th will not die.

Over the door in the Commonwealth Bank in Pitt Street there is a sign. 'The noiseless foot of time steals swiftly by'. It's a gloomy thought, conjuring up pictures of increasing aches, pains and disabilities. But all these can be dispelled when we meet and we start playing the game that seems to start, "Do you remember when.....?" and suddenly time falls away and we're young again.

I've heard it said that we tend to recall only the happy times. This may be so, but I feel it is equally true to say that it was the bad times that really welded us together. If we concede that adversity is a great leveller, then surely it follows that our times as P.'s.O.W. brought us together in a fashion that few other circumstances could have?

And those bonds are still secure.

We are sentimentalists, and I make no apology for that. Nor, I think, would the rest of us. Was not sentiment and all it implies basically behind the simple and expressive words spoken by Johnnie Parsons and George Ramsay? And didn't what they say arouse stirrings that can be otherwise so easily submerged in the dreary round of everyday living?

Yes, in every way I got a lot more than my money's worth, which, for someone who appreciates a bargain, was gratifying.

It's odd how memories return, and I found myself thinking of the time when I was part of an advance party going down to the Johan van Oldenbarnevelt. As the train dropped down the last stages of the descent towards Penrith, I'd been staring out the window, thinking. Suddenly, I realised B.J. was standing behind me. He, too, was watching the landscape. I'll always remember his question. "I wonder what'll happen to us before we see that again?" he asked.

Well, a lot occurred, some good, some bad, but all of it memorable .

I think of the time when B.J. single handed tackled the black marketeers whose activities were undermining morale and good discipline. And the night before George Ramsay left to go north to God knows what with A Force and I spent some time with him, saying goodbye. And the ghastly trip to Borneo on the Ube Maru when I had dengue and I found out later they were considering chucking me overboard. And the day Denny Garland and I, out of sheer boredom, shaved our heads, and when the working party came home from the 'drome, in full view we doffed our hats' and sang 'Memories,' and how, panicked by this grim sight, people screamed and tried to climb trees to get away. And how Edgar Dengate, when he happened to be dummy at bridge, would disappear and hours later we'd find him cooking himself some tapioca chips, having completely forgotten the game. And the agony Ron Ollis endured in silence with 'Happy Feet'. And the bashings on the 'drome. And the day we first saw the Yank Liberators and someone remarked, 'That looks like a plane made by a white man.' And how this caused the Nips to do their blocks so they ran around banging gongs and thumping honest citizens. And the very peculiar day when we cheered a Nip pilot who took off in their last Zero to have a go at a Liberator. (I think we cheered because we admired his guts. He must have given those Yanks a hell of a fright!) And on and on..........

You can't buy things like that. You've either got them, or you haven't. I'm proud I can look back on those times and for me, they'll be evergreen.

Which brings me back to reunions. In a sense, it's like having your battery re-charged and I know I go away from each with my mind racing as even more things come back into my memory bank. To me, that's a lot more than merely just worthwhile.

And I'd like to pay my respects to those of the Association who have selflessly done so much to keep the flame burning. It must not be permitted to flicker out because I sense that should that happen, that is the day when we'll begin to die.

Graham McLeod

SINGAPORE AFTER 30 YEARS

Perhaps if we contemplated our own City of Sydney as it was 30 years ago and compared it with what it is today, we would be astonished at the many significant changes. But going to Singapore for a stay of three or four days after a similar lapse of time provided a much greater shock. Inevitably, one pictured the scenes of 1941-1945 when moving about, but the scenes of today bear little or no relationship to them.

Development everywhere on the Island has been remarkable - mostly in the direction of new industries - a whole Industrial Complex has been built in the Jurong Area where Mangrove swamps and "terrible country" existed in 1940 and colossal housing projects are under construction, one might say, almost in hundreds.

The first thing that strikes one is the fact that Singapore - as a City - has now sprawled over almost the whole of the Island. In our day one left Singapore to go several miles along the East Coast Rd to Changi - one left Singapore to go north to the Causeway and the western third of the Island was practically still in its natural state of mangrove swamps and thick jungle undergrowth. The city itself was down in the southern quarter surrounding the harbour forefront.

Today the suburbs spread continuously along the East Coast Road to Changi Gaol and the turn-off from the coast strip at Simpang Bedok is a busy shopping area with a large school fronting the road - all residential. The modern new International Aerodrome at Paya Lebang is sited about in the centre of the eastern triangle of the Island and a frightfully busy road it is to get there (some miles from the City Centre).

Bukit Timah is jammed with traffic - mostly commercial - and one sees no breaks in the residential and commercial development all the way to the Causeway. In fact, when I looked from Woodland Rd across to our old positions (in the rubber) opposite the Causeway I saw that the rubber had all been cleared and about half a dozen colossal blocks of housing units were being erected there.

It was not worth trying to recognise ground features there any longer. Within five years I estimate that all available vacant areas of land on the whole Island will be utilised and built on, when I suppose there will be a combined demolition and building programme started.

My wife and I took a taxi over the Jurong Area. It is a vast industrial development, with a good sense of beauty in layout of streets, playgrounds and housing projects mixed in. We saw the Jurong Bird Park (worthwhile) and both glimpses of the Chinese and Japanese Scenic Gardens - altogether a completely new panorama.

I then asked our taxi driver to drive us up Bukit Timah Rd to Kranji War Memorial Cemetery. To my astonishment-and what about yours - he asked me "Where's that"? I told him to carry on and I would show him. This I did and when we arrived he said he was glad to have seen it and would know where to come the next time. So much for ancient history!

Later that afternoon, following a contact with the Australian High Commissioners office in Singapore, I kept an appointment at Changi Gaol to see the Chapel there. My wife and I were ushered in, searched, and then shown up to the Chapel by two of the commissioned gaol officers, who were very nice and hospitable, also very proud of their Chapel.

We saw the two 2/30 plaques, displayed amongst quite a large number of English and Indian Army - and Australian regiments - and they did us proud. Steve Allardice had picked a really good spot for the display - near the door - and before we left we were given a coloured postcard taken of the interior (for visitors) as no cameras are allowed.

One of the officers I found was an ex-member of the West York, which regiment I watched disembarking from their landing craft at Katong Aerodrome on 5th Sept. 1945. He was amongst them and remembered the date too.

A visit to Singapore is well worth while - but go with interest in what is happening there today rather than nostalgia over the past. It is indeed a beautiful city - the best in Asia - and well and efficiently managed. Everything seems to be well controlled and well managed there. It is an exhilarating experience (and no longer any 'eastern aromas').

Noel Johnston

Confirmation of Noel's experiences and impressions when visiting the Chapel was received from Mr. Jack Phillips (son-in-law of our late mate Len Ryan). Jack pointed out that Changi is a functioning maximum security prison and as the Chapel is some distance inside the complex, access by visitors involves an accompanying officer, with appropriate arrangements having been made in advance. However, he gained the impression that the Authorities are most willing to co-operate, and officers at the Gaol are most helpful and courteous.

All of the foregoing was further confirmed by Yvonne (wife of Alan Charlton) who recently visited Singapore and on whose behalf the Editor made arrangements for Yvonne and her friend, Dulcie McIntosh, to visit the Chapel.

After reciting their experiences when they got mixed up with buses on the way to the Gaol, and got nicely wet when caught in a tropical storm, Yvonne continued:

At the prison gates we had to produce our credentials. One guard phoned to a point further down the line, opposite the entrance to the actual gaol. We knocked on the door and a guard greeted us, after much unlocking of bolts. At the watch house we were stripped of everything, except our clothes.

We signed the visitors' book and were then escorted to the Chapel (after passing through another heavily padlocked door) by a charming young Captain, (Mr. Devarajin was on leave that morning) who related the story connected with the conversion from a hospital ward to an all denominations Chapel. Brigadier Galleghan's plaque has a place of honour. He told us worship is not compulsory and at the same time mentioned that Changi is a maximum security prison. It was rather an eerie feeling!

As we descended the Chapel steps a prisoner in the quadrangle addressed the Captain and we were then shown the copper plaques, etc. which had been made by the prisoners. They were for sale, but we declined.

We were each given a photo of the Chapel and our passports etc. were returned. Then more unlocking of doors, and once again "freedom". It was an interesting experience, somewhat sad though.

We wended our way to the "entrance" gates and as it was still raining decided to catch a cab back to the hotel.

Like all visitors to the Island, Yvonne was astounded by the obvious development of Singapore over the past 30 years; and she concluded her interesting letter with a few impressions of Bali, which they also visited and thought delightful.

SICK PARADE

Kevin Ward reports the State as at 5th December:

In R.G.H. and other Hospitals:
Bill Elliott (D Coy), Harry Law (A Coy), Ron McBurney (A Coy).

Discharged from Hospital since last MAKAN:
Ted Barnes (A Coy), Jack Commans (C Coy), Arnie Ferry (B Coy), Sammy Hall (A Coy), Gordon Hill (B Coy), Jimmy Hill (HQ Coy), Noel Johnston (HQ Coy).

NEWS, VIEWS AND WHOS WHOS

After an extremely lengthy silence, Ron Johnston (C Coy) put pen to paper from Pittsworth, Q. Ron was fortunate to sell his Printing business in June, 1973, before the crunch came, and though the contract called for him to stay with the purchasers for two years, he managed to leave the business, and Sydney, in September, 1974.

He proceeded to Pittsworth, where he had acquired a 640 acre black soil property about 10 minutes from Pittsworth and 40 minutes from Toowoomba, and at the beginning of October last he had 350 acres barley and 55 acres wheat coming nicely into head; and was naturally hoping for good weather up to and through the harvest.

In April, 1973, Ron and Meg flew off for a five weeks holiday of the East, visiting Bali, Singapore, K.L., Bangkok, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan.

They managed to visit the Gaol at Changi and the Chapel, and were also shown over Selarang Barracks. They then set off for K.L. by car and saw most of the places which still hold memories for most of us.

They then proceeded to Bangkok, and set off from there, with a friend who spoke excellent Thai, driving by car to Bam Pong, where the natives were amused to see somewhat interested enough to take photos of the place. From there they drove to the Bridge over the Kwai, where they hired a power boat and went up-stream to the Chungkai War Cemetery.

Continuing further up-stream they came to the wild, hilly, bamboo country, until they came to a spot where the Railway came right in against a bend in the River. After visiting an underground Temple, Ron achieved one of his ambitions and walked for about a mile along the railway. It proved to be an anti-climax, and he doesn't want to repeat the performance.

They then returned by boat and car to the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, and like all others who have visited it, they were impressed with the way it is maintained, and the feeling of peace, which pervades it. Ron took several photos of the graves of some of our mates.

The balance of their trip was equally interesting, and Ron and Meg consider it an excellent Safari. Ron sent regards to all.

Another pair of trippers, but much closer to home, were Harry and Dot Riches (HQ Coy). They decided to have their first break in years and went on a 16 day Kirkland Tour up to Cairns. They went up through the Brisbane Valley to Rockhampton, saw over a copper mine at Mount Morgan, and then on to Mackay. After an overnight stay in Townsville, they proceeded on to Cairns, where they had a four-day stop-over.

Tours on different days, from Cairns, were made to the Atherton Tablelands, Port Douglas and Mossman, and to Green Island on the Barrier Reef; all of which were most enjoyable.

While in Cairns Harry tracked down Dave Tate (HQ Coy) per phone, only to discover that Dave was some 68 miles away. But that didn't deter Dave, who visited Harry one evening. After 24 years it can easily be imagined that they talked long into the night. Harry confirmed the news re Dave which Snow Stevens furnished in last MAKAN. Len Barnes (HQ Coy) also came in to see Harry, who advised that Len is keeping and doing well.

On the way back, Harry and Dot had a couple of nights at Townsville, which enabled them to have an enjoyable trip to Magnetic Island; and on making Rockhampton, where they were to stay overnight, contact was made per 'phone with our Padre, Paddy Walsh. Paddy visited the Riches at their Hotel, and they talked well into the night. Harry reckons that at 73 Paddy is remarkable well preserved, and manages to get in a couple of days golf each week.

Following their return home Harry was kept busy for a while, getting some cattle ready for some of the Shows; but he mentioned that he sees Jock Logan (D Coy) fairly regularly, and he saw Tom Grant (C Coy) on the Tweed fairly recently. Both of them are keeping reasonably well. He was also delighted to receive a visit from Carl Odgers (HQ Coy) recently and advised that Carl was looking the best Harry has seen him look for ages.

Both Harry and Dot are keeping well, and they sent their regards to all.

Particularly since his retirement from work, Alan Charlton (HQ Coy) does quite a bit of tripping around. One of his recent jaunts was when he accompanied some friends out to Glengarry Opal Field. While there he met up with a Mr. Jack Lane, who turned out to be a friend of Allan Prentice (HQ Coy) who lives at Walgett - a bit too far away for a quick visit, so Allan could only send his regards.

Then in mid-October he and Yvonne paid a visit to Newcastle, where they caught up with Jim Webster (B Coy) and Jim's younger brother, Bill. Incidentally, Alan and Yvonne's uncle had a bit of success with a visit to a Poker Machine.

Alan advised that his latest information was that Bob Martin (HQ Coy) has acquired a Greyhound pup, which he intends to race. (If it turns out any good, he had better get in touch with Bob McLaren (D Coy) and breed from some of Bob's champs - Ed).

Alan also paid tribute to our late mate, Bob Skinner (HQ Coy), whom he first met many years ago in a large Country Town, when they were both travelling around looking for work. Bob was a great mate and a tough customer - even surviving an attack of cholera on "F" Force.

Although several of the long-suffering, underpaid secretary wives did the right thing and sent in Subs for their men, they were all obviously a bit busy and didn't have too much time for news items.

Leila Hill sent in Jim's (HQ Coy) Subs from Engadine, and mentioned that Jim was at that time (mid-November) in a Nursing Home. However, we have since learned that he has returned home. It is to be hoped that both Jim and Leila have a much better Year, healthwise, during 1976 than they have had in 1975.

Rita Musgrove sent in Sid's (D Coy) Subs from Wahroonga, and merely had time to mention that she and Sid were thrilled to see their married daughter, Suzanne, home from England, for three weeks in July last, on the occasion when their youngest daughter was married.

Phyl Stuart is getting a bit tired of sending in Lloyd's (D Coy) Subs each year and would like to be able to make a lump-sum life payment. As explained previously, we do not have a life payment for MAKAN, the Subscription for which is set by the Executive each year, and can, and is quite likely to alter after 1976. However, Phyl sent in enough from Rockdale to keep the Chief Correspondent off her back for a few years to come.

Helen Kennedy, of course, had to send in Tom's (C Coy) Subs from Cardiff. She was obviously very busy, but did manage to advise that the Kennedy tally in the Grandpa Stakes now stands at 22, and that their youngest son, Tom Jnr, had won a Senior Section in a Yamaha Organ Festival in Newcastle, and had had the honour of competing at the Opera House.

Our previous MAKAN to Stan Grainger (C Coy) to his Kilsyth, Vic. address had been returned unclaimed, and things looked a bit grim. However, Colleen did the right thing and wrote in to advise that they had sold their Kilsyth property and had bought a nine acre property at Caboolture, Q. Colleen was obviously busy, but she promised to let us have some news of the family in her next letter.

Clarrie Burgess (A Coy) generally manages to add some sort of a note to his remittance from Redfern, but he merely added "Happy Christmas and Jolly New Year to All" when sending in his Subs recently. He must be O.K., or he would surely have made some mention of any indisposition.

Tommy Yates (B Coy) added a donation to his remittance from West Ryde. He did mention that he had had a short spell in Concord a couple of months ago, when he had all his teeth extracted. He found it a bit difficult for a while, but has since taken the "L" plate down, and is managing well. Tom sent Seasonal Greetings to all.

From a Metropolitan Correspondent (according to the post mark on the covering envelope) we received a contribution from "ANON, 9/11/75", which was obviously a comment on "What do you think?" It has not been published for two main reasons:- (1), Although MAKAN will publish material without disclosing the name of the contributor (as witness the series on "What do you think?") the name and address of the contributor must be furnished to the Editor. (2) It is 'considered that enough material has been published on that particular subject to warrant regarding the matter as being now closed.

We received a letter from Keith Jones (HQ Coy) enclosing a cheque for a nice sort of a donation to our funds, and advising that he had sold out at Nelson Bay and had bought a house property up at Burleigh Waters, on the Gold Coast. Keith decided that work in his trade as a Tool Sharpener wasn't so plentiful at Nelson Bay, but from a survey he had made, there seemed to be much more available on the Gold Coast. So he and Thora have gone there to live.

Keith also mentioned that their eldest son has been transferred to Melbourne, in charge of that Branch Office for a Firm of Melbourne and Sydney Accountants; while their daughter is doing well, being in charge of Speech Therapy at the State Hospital.

Both Keith and Thora are keeping reasonably well, and they sent Seasonal Greetings and Best Wishes to all.

And there, dear Readers, we must bring to a close this issue of MAKAN, principally by reason of the fact that the folder "News Items for Inclusion" is empty.

Metropolitan and near Country areas will receive the Special Edition for Gemas Commemoration Day, early in January, but there will not be a further issue of MAKAN until early in April, 1976 ; when arrangements concerning our Annual General Meeting and Anzac Day will be advised.

However, that issue will be very slim indeed, unless there in a good response to the Editor's request to include some items for the news columns when sending in Subs for 1976. And those of you who have paid in advance, and do not require to send in Subs for 1976, are asked to make a special effort and write in with news of yourself and the family.

All Readers are also asked to examine the sheet detailing amendments to the List of Members and Next-of-Kin, and to advise tie Editor if they have any knowledge of the present address of of those whose names appear with the instruction "Delete Address".

You have been spared the usual review of the achievements (or otherwise) of MAKAN for the Year - suffice is it to say that the usual six issues have been produced, averaging 28 pages, with an 8 page issue for Gemas Day and Supplements consisting of 16 pages on Repat and allied matters and 8 pages for the Annual Report and Financial Statements. Next Year there will be a reduction of at least two in the number of regular issues to be produced - more if those news items fail to come in.

Meanwhile, thanks a million for your help in the past, with the hope that it continues in the future,

Merry Christmas, and all that and God Bless

Phil Schofield
The Editor

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