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Back to 1981 index or Main Index Makan No. 261 Official Journal 2/30 Bn. A.I.F. Association Subscription Rate for Makan for both Life and Annual Members per year: $1.50 Registered for Posting as Periodical: Category A
Dates For Your Diary
30th June Tues. -
9th July Thur.-
25th July Sat. -
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15th Aug. Sat. -
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15/16 Aug. Weekend - 16
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14/18 Oct. Wed/Sun -
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17th Oct. Sat. - Sick Parade Kevin Ward reports that those, who have been in hospital since last report, and in some cases are still there are:‑ George White, Edith Berman, Bob Morrison, Tom Wright, Ken Dale, Harry Ray Green, Bill Gilligan, Alex Denholm, Ray Rickards. If you are sick at home and would like someone to call. The Hospital Visitors or the Auxiliary Members wish to help you, but are unable to do so, if you forget to tell Kevin. If it is into Concord see that you get the Admission Clerk to note your papers that you are 2/30 Bn., so that the Computer has it. Acknowledgment of Monies Received All Members and Life Members will have received their advices in the supplement, which was enclosed with your last Makan, as to how they stood financially in our books up to and including 24/3/81. This listing from now will show that we shall have received your funds and will be dealing with them as you set out in your letters. Many of the next of kin of our deceased brethren send us funds to help with postage and the like. We are always grateful to receive such help, as we feel that our cobbers would have liked you to do that for us, BUT we do NOT expect you to do it. We want to keep in touch and its our thanks to our deceased mates for their comradeship in the past and one of our ways of saying it to you, for us to have the privilege of sending you Makan. Phil Schofield nominated you for his "Naughty but Nice" Club, we do so still. We thank you and will make our acknowledgment to you in the listing as with all receipts. (A.D.) New Life Members Archie Craig, Athol Carey, Gordon Baker, George H. Brown, Kel Anderson, Ron (Jacko) Jackson, Ron (Porky) Moore, Tom McFarlane. Subs & "Makan" Fee Tom McFarlane, Garry Evans, Les Southwell, Bob Surtees, Athol Carey. Subs, "Makan" Fee and Subs in Advance Ron A. Charlton, Ron Cody, Ray J.T. Brown, Bruce Ford, Bert Stephens, Grace Ford per Norma Christensen, Claire Pluis, Derek Smith, Luke Carey, Edna Sinclair, Heather Baxter, Wilf Evans, Joe Geoghegan, Arthur J. Carroll, Gordon Baker, Ken Forward, Ray Rickards, Watson Peck, Alan Gilbert. Subs, "Makan" Fee, Subs in Advance. Donations Etc Don Sutherland, George H. Brown, Bert Farr, Ashley Pankhurst, Harry Jarrett, Les Melrose, Russ Mackie, George Aspinall. Makan Fee & Subs in Advance Bruce Holland, Andy Hyslop, John E. Martin, Phil Schofield, Shirley Twyford. Makan Fee & Donations Etc Kevin Ward, Jack Greenwood Subs in Advance and Donations Etc. Stuart Plowes, Wal Jordan, Col Tuckfield, "Ack Ack" Johnson, L.R. (Red) Hanlon, Gordon McKnight, George Clarke, Ernie Stratford, Arthur Piper. Subs in Advance Athol Hyde Cates, Geoff Alcock, Hank Massey, Alf Blomfield, Blair Taylor, Bob Dickson, Frank Purvis, Russ Perkins, Cappy Bligh, Sid Stephens, Harry Teasdale, Charlie Brouff, Des Gee, Doug Hicks, Doug McLaggan, Jim McIntosh, Bill Sorenson, Frank Silver, Tom Grant, Alan Mason, Vince Leonard, Sammy Hall, Ernie Ross, Eric Arps, Arthur Isaac, Harry Rhodes, Jack Collins, Frank Sullivan, Bruce Upcroft, Jim Saunderson, Artie Power, "Max" McClelland, Norm King, "Heck" Campbell, Frank McDonald, Steve Allardice, Des Kearney, Keith Broughton, Vernon Baynes, Ron "Porky" Moore. Donations May & Gordon Savage, Don McIver, Vic Hamlin, Ian Pryce, Alex Campbell, Anonymous Mark I, Anonymous Mark 2, Ray Streatfeild. Any name inadvertently left out of the above list will the donor please advise Alex and this information will be included in the next "Makan". Battalion Plaques The list of Members, who desire to have one of the Battalion Plaques has reached 25. Accordingly an order has been placed for that number. The price for each one will be the lower figure of $35. Delivery cost for the Plaque $2 and Sales Tax $5 makes a total of $42 per Plaque. To those Members who have ordered, will you now send the above amount to Alex Dandie and the Plaques when ready, will be sent to you. (P.S. 1 more to the List. Ed) Granville Reunion Ex-P.O.W. 6 pm 12 Sept. Saturday, $12 per head (incl. drinks) wives, widows, children over 18 yrs welcome. Contact Joe Geoghegan or ring Club Secretary on 637 7888 or on 637 4181. Smorgasbord, Dancing. A Tribute to Alex Dandie - And Some Others It gave me much pleasure to find myself writing a letter of sincere thanks (on behalf of everyone) to Alex Dandie last month, as the first task to be performed as Patron of the Association. It was just a short time before the Annual Meeting that Alex, was told by his doctor that his poor condition of health was due entirely to his heavy work load, and that he would have to jettison most of it as a matter of urgency. In my letter to Alex, I described "MAKAN" as the "messenger for all messages, the telephone between mates, the reporter for all occasions, and the Key to the continuing welfare of the Association." It is all that, and so it was that when Alex, said he could no longer carry on, I was happy to join Arch Thorburn and Ron Maston (your new Vice President) in a special sub-committee of the Executive to examine our problem and decide, in the absence of any obvious replacement for Alex, what course of action we should take, to preserve the future of "MAKAN". In this issue of "MAKAN" the new arrangements for the future editing and production of "MAKAN" are explained, and I must say I am very pleased with them. At the same time, we must all say, loud and clear: "Thank you Alex Dandie, for your dedicated efforts on our behalf over the several years you bore the complete responsibility for "MAKAN", and Thank you, Ron Maston, for your recent efforts on our behalf, with your special sub-committee to set up the future structure for "MAKAN" to continue its great role in the health and vitality of our Association, and Thanks to all who have "stepped into the breach" to meet our needs, Blessings to all,
Noel Johnston 24th May 1981 You are about t o read under the heading of "Production of MAKAN", of impending changes in the names of those who will be responsible for the production and distribution. of MAKAN, I commend them to you and I commend those responsible for organising the new team. Their names appear in this report to you. I pay particular tribute to the indefatigable Ron Maston, the driving force behind the new format and enlistment of the new recruits. We have had many wonderful men occupying the Editorial chair. I am thinking particularly of Stan Arneil and Phil Schofield and the most recent incumbent Alex Dandie. It would be difficult to imagine three more dissimilar types. We went from the beloved Irishman to the methodical Banker, that incredible mixture of first class brain and practical handyman and then to the dour Scot. Each did a magnificent job in a different way. I am saddened that Alex’s health is a matter of concern but rejoice that he will be able to continue his association with MAKAN. Let us all give Jock McDougall and his team our wholehearted support in the vital job they are undertaking. Arch Thorburn Production of Makan Early this year our Editor Alex Dandie indicated to the Executive that he felt he could no longer continue as Editor due to the state of his health. The Patron Noel Johnston, the President Arch Thorburn and Vice President Ron Maston, at the request of the Executive met with Alex Dandie and discussed with him areas in which his job could be made easier. Unfortunately due to continuing ill health Alex’s doctor insisted that he be relieved of all pressing responsibilities and therefore he regretfully indicated that he could no longer continue as the MAKAN Editor. A sub-sub-committee consisting of Jack Maclay, Fred Johnston, Alex Dandie and Ron Maston was formed to consider a plan for the continued production of MAKAN. This sub-committee co-opted the services of Merv Geoghegan and submitted the following Plan to the Executive on 19/5/81. This Plan was approved and is now operating as follows: MAKAN to be published four times a year (instead of six as in the past). To be posted on the 15th, of the following months, September, December, March and June. Postal regulations now require that to qualify for special rates, a fixed date of posting is selected. For final copy, correspondence should be closed One Month before that date. That an Editor and two Sub-Editors be responsible for MAKAN publication. E.E. "Jock" McDougall has volunteered to be Editor, responsible for production and posting of MAKAN. Alex Dandie has volunteered to continue as Chief Correspondent and as such becomes one of the Sub-Editors. (T.G. says J) Alex will maintain history sheets, continue birthday messages and all letters and subscriptions are to continue to go to him as in the past. He will also continue to receive telephone messages. Alex has kindly offered for MAKAN to continue to be produced at his home. Jack Maclay will assist Alex where required. A.I. (Bert) Farr has volunteered to be the other Sub-Editor and with Jock McDougall will share the following responsibilities:
Immediate and Coming Events Production Coordinator Responsible to organise the team of helpers who print the MAKAN pages on Gestetner, assemble them, envelope and post the complete magazine. Jack Maclay has agreed to accept this task and will be responsible to the Editor. Bookkeeper To carry out work associated with recording monies received, writing receipts, banking and accounting to Treasurer. Keeping details of each member's position on cards which are classified in groups showing pictures of payments in advance etc. Ray Brown has volunteered to do this task and has already commenced. B.H. (Dutchy) Holland is assisting Ray. Receipts will no longer be issued, instead the names, from who payments have been received will be listed in MAKAN, the amounts not being printed. Printing Merv. Geoghegan & Jack Maclay to visit Sharp Electronic Industries. Ron Maston & Fred Johnston to visit Rank Xerox to obtain information on suitable copying machines. Merv. Geoghegan to get quotes on printing of MAKAN by outside firms. Should any member of the Association have contacts in the above printing areas, where they may be able to obtain machines or printing quotes, please contact Ron Maston. The MAKAN is the life blood of 2/30 Bn. A.I.F. Association and for its continued production, it is essential that we have all our key personnel backed up by assistants. We are therefore wanting to obtain the names of people who are prepared to help. A large number of our members are retired or are planning to retire. If you feel you can help please contact Ron Maston or Jock McDougall. Ron Maston As a small space has conveniently occurred after Ron Maston's arrangements for MAKAN, I thought it would be appropriate if I could add a small bit of appreciation of Alex’s hard work and dedication. The records that "dour Scot" has in his hands AND MIND are remarkable, and I do not for one moment think that I will reach the heights of the "tall angular gentleman", even the practical handyman or the "dour Scot", but I will endeavour to the best of my ability, and with what little hearing I have left, together with the willing help of the workers on MAKAN and the continued guidance of our Chief Correspondent, to get it to you on time. I am also NOT forgetting the redoubtable Harry Collins and that other old Scouter and dour Scot, Ron Stoner. Alex as we all know has done a remarkable job, and I am pleased, as I am sure you all are, that he will continue the correspondence and being in touch with everyone. Jock McDougall Farewell Message from Our 5th Editor of "Makan" It is a case like those countries, which have a Monarchical System of Government. "The King is dead!" "Long Live the King!" I have been your Editor/Chief Correspondent since the distribution of "Makan" No. 227, the last one brought out by Phil Schofield. Almost from the commencement of my term of office I began to impose upon myself some "self-inflicted wounds" as, again quoting Phil, he described various activities, in which an Editor of the Battalion Magazine may feel inclined to involve himself. It may be said that I immersed myself in the job as a kind of therapy. P.O.W. days had left their scars mentally. My civil occupation and the arena in which my daily stint required me to serve my employer, conditioned me to be active, and the chance of serving you, the recipients of my efforts as Editor, seemed to give me a good retirement activity. However we can't stop the clock. Most of us who are on the elderly side, are not as physically fit as we used to be and I cannot take the pressure these days. I ignored my M.O.'s warnings, when I first took on the job, but his warnings now, are more in the way of dire threats, of what will happen, if I do not ease up, of late. My hearing is not as good as it used to be, and bouts, of what I call "foot and mouth disease", hit me from time to time, generally after trying to make deadlines in my work. Luckily I had insisted that, if I took over the job, where Phil had had to lay it aside, I would need a team of helpers, and I may say quite frankly that, at no time has anyone knocked me back, when I have approached them to join the team, and, it is by the joint efforts of all, that you have been getting your "Makan", and it is by your contributions that the "Makan" has had appeal to you. I have not seen what I know others are putting into the pages of this "Makan". I have not the skill of some of the past Editors, and have been blatantly pinching other people's work, with due acknowledgement in most cases, but I feel sure that with the new directives of our Chief Editor, E.E. (Jock) McDougall and Sub-Editor, A.I. (Bert) Farr, for whom I have been only one of the helpers. (NOT exactly true, as I have found about 95% of the work had been already collated. Very New Ed.) now in their production of this 261st. Edition of "Makan", it will keep on giving you the news of your mates, reminding you of some of the humorous activities of a never to be forgotten period of our lives. I will be of service to you still as Chief Correspondent, D.V. and one Editor departs, our Chief Editor takes over. Thank you one and all for those parts of your letters, that did not grace these pages, they were heart warming to me, I can well assure you. God Bless. Alex. Last Post NX27443 - L/Cpl Kenneth Ernest Crispin was born 18/1/1910 and died on 8/4/1981, so that it was, but a short while before his death, that he had celebrated his 71st birthday. As a member of the Intelligence Section, Battalion H.Q. he performed important tasks with his fellow members of that section in training and in battle, being the scouts of the Battalion in reconnaissance work for manoeuvres, new battle stations and as guides. He, with Cliff Bayliss and Alan Penfold, rewrote the Battalion War Diary, and, following that, set about writing the History of the Battalion. He and Cliff were together on "F" Force and, when Cliff died at Shimo Sonkurai of Cholera on 3/6/43, Ken took over the diary notes, which Cliff had been making for that History, and continued them, so as to complete the History, as he and Alan put it in their Preface on page xiv of the book, "as a tribute to his memory". The History was published in 1949 and at the Annual General Meeting of the Association in March of the following year "B.J." was the one to propose that Ken and Alan Penfold be made Honorary Life Members of the Association in recognition of the work, which they had put in on the publication of the History, and was quickly followed by Noel Johnston in his hearty endorsement of the motion. Those, who were present at the Annual Reunion in Nov. 1978, when Ken had the honour of proposing the "Toast of the Battalion" will remember that Ken spoke of the events of the evening of 15th February 1942 in their sequence in time, "Then came the surrender. The 2/30 Battalion didn't surrender. We were still unconquered. But, Higher Command had surrendered and we became Prisoners of War". All of the 8th Division were still front-line soldiers against the Japanese, until they in their turn had to capitulate to the Allies and Ken was truly one of those "B.J." extolled in his Farewell Message to all A.I.F. Troops in Singapore, in handing over Command to the C.O. Aust. PW Recovery Group, "You finish your prisoner period as disciplined soldiers, whom this Jap could not break". Ken was with us at Selarang Barracks; he was with the major part of the Battalion, when it moved into Singapore to do work on the "Shrine Job", being housed at Mt. Pleasant and Caldecott Hill Estates; on 21 November 1942 he was part of that work party to be sent to River Valley Road Camp, where the work was stevedoring or warehousemen's duties, and returned to Selarang Barracks on 22 Dec. 1942, when most Singapore Work Parties moved back there, to leave it once more on 22/4/1943 as a member of "F" Force destined for Thailand and "The Death Railway". Ken has described that period in his life as one "where the food got down as low as 3 level dessertspoonfuls of rice and we worked from daylight to dark, 7 days a week, on hard work. I swung an 8 pound hammer in a granite quarry one day, and reckoned that I'd struck an easy one. Heavy rain of the monsoon period did not stop the work, but we all looked after each other and shielded the sick ones the best that we could". Ken set out in his enlistment papers that his civil occupation was as an "advertising assistant". He was on the staff of The Australian Gaslight Company in Sydney and returned to its employ on demobilisation, remaining with it until he reached that Company's normal retiring age, after 47½ years there. However Ken had home commitments, to see that his daughter, Ruth, who had just then completed her 4th year at High School, had been set on the way to whatever was to be her future career. Therefore he sought other employment, which was with the Phoenix Insurance Company and later with the Government Retirements Board. Ken was not a well man since the war. Some of his illnesses were arthritis and a peptic ulcer and towards the end of his life he suffered from dizziness and blackouts. He was a member of the Session of the Uniting Church at Jannali for quite some time and, on occasion, conducted some of the services for his Minister. He was a member of Lodge Excalibur, No. 737. U.G.L. of N.S.W. Possibly the first time that he sat in Lodge with a lot of other Members of the Craft in the Battalion might have been when "B.J." rounded up as many as could be found in Sydney at the time, when "Togo" David Lloyd took his first step in "Lodge Army and Navy" in the early 1950s. We mourn with his wife, Joan, his son, William and his family, and his daughter, Ruth, at his passing. He is joined to that growing list of our comrades, who are no longer with us, but, as he himself said, "Army disbanded the Battalion after we came back to Australia, but they could not disband the Battalion Spirit. It lives on and will continue to live on, as long as any of us are alive to revere the memories of those comrades, who are no longer with us." Our Battalion History is a tangible link to us with his memory. Ian Pryce has commented, "It is worth recording that the survivors of the entire "I" Section were at Ken's funeral", with "Curly" Heckendorf flying down from Lockhart and Andy Hyslop coming down from Umina to join the Sydney men in paying their tribute to him. Ron Eaton, who had so much to do with the "I" Section, as I.O. in action, regretted that an absence on business in Melbourne meant that no word of Ken's passing reached him. Joan says, "I am writing to express my very deep appreciation of the tribute paid in a number of ways to Ken by members of the 2/30 Bn Association - the visits to him during his visits in hospital; the attendance at the Church; the Guard of Honour at the Crematorium and the participation in the Service there. All these were indications of the respect, with which he was regarded and were of great comfort to me. Thank you also for the beautiful flowers sent to me. I am glad that we were able to attend the 40th Anniversary Reunion at Tamworth last November, when Ken met and yarned with so many old mates. It was a happy weekend and he often spoke of it. As Mr. Geoghegan said to me, "not anybody could belong to the 2/30”. It was a very select Battalion and Ken was very proud to be numbered in its ranks. He always wore his 2/30 Life Membership Badge with pride. Thank you most sincerely, Joan Crispin." NX68235 Pte. Frank P. Copley was born 15/1/1918. He died of a massive heart attack on 8/2/1981, so that he was only 63. He had been retired only a matter of approx. 18 months from the Dept. of Mines and Energy in Darwin, where he had been in its clerical section for the last 16 years of his working life, and had gone to Bli Bli near Nambour to establish his retirement home for his wife, Betty, and himself and those of his family of 7 children, who were still at home and as yet still attending school. Dudley Alford, 2/26 Bn Carrier Platoon and Secretary at the time of Near North Coast Branch of Queensland Ex-P.O.W. Association represented his Branch of the Association at Frank's funeral, and passed word of him dying through Ashley Pascoe. He also says that Legacy has taken up Betty's case for a War Widows' Pension and will be keeping an eye on her. Frank had been a member of the Band, in which he played the Solo Cornet, and came to the 2/30 Bn from the Training Battalion at Wagga, as is described on page 8 of the Battalion History. On his enlistment he had given "Wool Scourer" as his civil occupation, and his brother was named as Next of Kin, living in Northcote. (Vic.) Frank was with the rest of the Battalion in Selarang Barracks at Changi after the Capitulation, and went from there to work at the "Shrine job" being billeted at Mt. Pleasant and Caldecott Hill Estates, until that Party was split up on 21 Nov. 1942. Frank was not one of the 700 sent to River Valley Rd. on that day, but the next day, 22nd Nov. '42 with the remainder of the Battalion he went straight back to Selarang Barracks. His next move from Selarang was with "F" Force, which left on 22/4/43, going to Thailand to work on the Death Railway. He was on Train 5, in Truck 8, with Ron Eaton and Len Dawson. He is not listed in any of the Parties, which went in 1945 to work on tunnelling, trenches and wells for the Japs, and we can only conclude that he was not well enough after the rigours of the Death Railway stint to go out on any of those later parties. Frank was repatriated to Australia after Recovery on the "Esperance Bay"; was on the List for Victoria and left Sydney by rail for Melbourne immediately after the ship's arrival there on 9th October 1945; his home address then being shown as Ararat. Nothing of Frank's activities after demobilisation was ever reported in "Makan". However, we have learnt that Frank stayed with Charlie Brouff at Eden for a while, and was in touch with Bill Hodge. His wife now that she wished that he had kept in touch with his mates; he often used to speak of them over the years. Betty, Frank's wife, has sent her thanks for our expressions of sympathy on behalf of the Battalion with her and her family, and said, "I still can't believe that he has left me. He had a list of disabilities caused by the treatment as a P.O.W. While there had never been mention of heart trouble, Frank kept saying over the past few months that his arms and shoulders were aching, and yet said it must be arthritis, that his passing has been such a shock, especially for our two youngest children. Jodie has turned 11 years of age, in only the week after Frank passed away. They just adored each other. Mark, who was 15 years of age last October, has been very quiet. He doesn't say much but he will be a great help to me. We had 7 children, 4 sons, 3 daughters. My eldest son, Peter, turned 29 last April. He is a draughtsman. Grant is 27 years of age and a Carpenter. Both of those are married, but the third boy, Simon, is 21 years of age, is a Civil Engineer and not married. Susan, my eldest daughter is 23 years. She is staying here with me until the end of May, when she will be going back to Darwin. Judith, 22 years, lives in Darwin also, where we lived for 16 years Frank worked as a clerk for the Government. He was a hard worker and well respected, but it was getting him down in later years, so he retired at 60 years of age and we came down here to Queensland. Frank had said that he would love to retire to here as the weather was very much like Darwin, although not quite so hot. We picked out a lovely spot here in the country, and Frank built the house himself. He loved every minute of doing this, even though it was hard work for any man of his age. He planned his garden, in which he just loved pottering around, and often said, "Well Love, if anything happens to me, you have a home no one can take from you". He was concerned for me at all times. He was a wonderful Husband and Father. Vet. Affairs, Legacy and Ex-P.O.W. Fund and the Bowling Club, "Pacific Paradise", which Frank had joined, as he loved his bowls, have been very helpful. I hope that, if any of the Battalion Boys ever come this way, you will come to see us, our address is, Bli Bli, via Nambour, Queensland. I do not know New South Wales much. Frank did intend taking us for a trip in the near future. I thank everyone for their kind thoughts. Kind Regards to all, Betty Copley". Deaths of Next of Kin Freda Knox - Wife of Ray ("Andy") Knox - C Company A shock announcement on Saturday, 16th May last, that Freda had died at 1 o'clock that morning. The District Nurse had visited her during the week and had been accompanied by her dog, which had bitten Freda; blood poisoning had set in and would have required amputation of the leg. We had had a letter from her nephew, Don Tingcombe, written on 1st May, to let us know that he and his wife, Es, had shut up their own house, along the street from Freda, and moved down to Freda, to keep an eye on her, as they had been concerned at the way that she had been, since her sister, "Teen", Dulcie Lethbridge Elliott, had died on April 18th last. Her death, so soon after that of Ray, had shaken Freda very much, and she had been inclined to think that, with the both of them gone, it would be only a matter of time for her. The tragedy arises from the shortness of time, in which that thought had been fulfilled. The funeral service was held at the South Tweed Heads Crematorium. The Service was conducted by the same Doctor and Minister, who had performed the Ceremony for Ray, when he was cremated, Dr. John Follent. The same as with Ray, Dr. Follent was with Freda, when she died, and he spoke quite feelingly about her from his personal knowledge of the family since they had moved up there in 1978. The Battalion was represented at the Service by Joe and Sybil Johnston and Len Clavan. Tom Grant had let them know and had organised the flowers, but unfortunately, he was not able to be present, as he had to take his young son to an interview that very day with B.H.P. to see if he could be given an apprenticeship with that firm, and Keith Jones was not there either as he is in hospital at present. We are told that the flowers were Purple orchids and Gladioli with yellow chrysanthemums in an oval shape, with the purple on the bottom and the yellow on the top and were truly beautiful. The letter from Don said, "I am writing to you and the 2/30 Bn. Association to try in some small way to express our sincere thanks for all the very kind thoughts and cards in our very recent sad loss of "Teen" Dulcie Elliott, my late Aunt. Teen gave of herself all her life to anyone, whom she thought she could help, especially Es, our two daughters and myself. Teen raised, fed and clothed me from a very early age, and I've tried to repay the debt in little ways where I could. We all owed her a lot more than we could ever repay and will miss her very much. Tom Grant is a terrific man and has been very kind to both Teen and Freda over the years and we all look forward to his visits. We all feel Tom is a part of the family. Alex, may you and Tom and all other members of the Battalion go on for a thousand years. (Thanks, Don. A.D.) Again a very sincere thank you, I remain, Don Tingcombe." Leila, Wife of Ray Duncombe - Balmain, 2041 - HQ Leila died suddenly on 16th April. She knew that she was sick, but delayed leaving the house until she had had a bath, and collapsed just as she had finished. Ray and Leila had been married 53 years, so that they had commenced married life in a fight against the troubles of the depression years, and then, during the war years, Leila had to suffer the agony of not knowing whether Ray would come home, or, if he did come home, how she might find him. We sorrow with Ray in the fact that he is left to soldier on, but he has comfort from his daughter and her family, and in the knowledge that the grandchildren have had a good upbringing. Several of the Battalion supported Ray at the cremation service at Rookwood Crematorium. Mrs Margaret Alice Mitchell, Wife of Jim, HQ Company Quartermaster and Quartermaster to No.1 Battalion on "A" Force - Died 23/4/81 Betty Pryde has written, "I and Alan very much regret the death of Margaret Mitchell. She played a big part in the old "Purple and Geld" organisation," (which had been formed by Mrs. Gai Jenkins from the stalwarts of the Ladies' Auxiliary of the 2/30 Bn. Comforts Fund, for the purpose of continuing the many friendships and associations of that body, as formed during the War years) "and in all 2/30 Bn activities. She will be missed by many". Margaret had been Secretary of the "Purple and Gold" Club. Mrs. Jenkins and Mrs. Hendy (Dougall) had been the organisers for the regular Christmas Pasties of the "Purple and Gold Club" and following their successive deaths, Margaret tried to keep up such a traditional party, with the help of Mrs. Wilga Mitchell, the Mother of Bruce Mitchell (Cpl. C Company), but found that its Members were too scattered for it to be successful, so 1978 saw its demise. However, when the Auxiliary was formed recently, Margaret became a member, indicating a keen desire for active participation in its activities, although she recognised that her age would prevent her from many outdoor projects. Many will remember big Jim. Stan Arneil said way back in 1961 that "Quartermastering and the related jobs seemed to attract some of the Battalion's most colourful characters, including amongst their members....Big Jim Mitchell, HQ Company Quartermaster". Noel Johnston in 1962, speaking of "the personalities who in one way or another influenced the development of the moral fibre of the real Battalion, instanced Jim Mitchell amongst many from the grievous days of P.O.W. Camps, as one of the names, that seem to dwell in our memories". George Ramsay paid tribute to Jim Mitchell by saying that "in Burma while he had Jim in charge of the rations, George had no worry about all the men being given a fair share of what was available". Jim suffered from Tropical Ulcers and jeopardised his own recovery by giving away to sicker men some, and even, on occasion, all his on meal, so that those men might have a chance, and did not realise that he would die there in Burma at Khorkan (Kohn Kuhn) the 55 Kilo Hospital Camp on the 16th December 1943. Jim and Margaret had the one son, named Richard, we mourn with him the loss of two such fine people. We owe them a lot for the good they did in this world, and we are the better for having known them. Mrs Kathleen Lorna Crossman - Wife of Alan Crossman of the Band died on 17th May at Hospital. It was only in 1976 that Lorna came in touch with any of the Battalion after the war. It seemed that she had lived for quite a lot of the time in Tasmania, but George Winchester happened to meet her at an Autistic Fund raising activity. Your scribe went to visit her on one of the occasions, when she was in Concord Hospital for treatment. She was very grateful for those of the Battalion, who had been in touch with her by phone or visiting her at her Unit at Artarmon, but she was a very sick person towards the end, and living on her own did not help. Mrs Adele Edna Eaton, Mother of Ron Eaton and Pam Haskins The notice of the death of Mrs. Eaton showed that she died on 8th May last at Oberon District Hospital. We have extended to both Ron and Pam our sympathy with them on her passing to her Creator on behalf of the Members of the Battalion. Return Thanks Lee Winchester - Pymble, 2073 Lee writes, "To all the Men of the 2/30 Battalion I wish to express my appreciation for the comforting expressions of sympathy in the loss of my husband, George. I shall always be grateful for the support, that you all gave him during his long illness. My thanks and gratitude for the splendid arrangements carried out at the Crematorium. Without the support of the 2/30 I would have been at a loss knowing what to do. Paula and Donna will be very proud to know that the 2/30 thought so much of their Father. The Purple and Gold Floral Arrangement was a great comfort to me. Lee Winchester." Kathleen Etherington - Wyong, 2259 Kathleen has acknowledged our card, "Thanking you for your thoughtfulness, from Kathleen Etherington & family." Margaret Roberts tells us that she has been to see Kathleen, as she and Len had long been close to them in Wyong, and that Kathleen has her family all close by. Stop Press - Further Deaths Advised - Full Advices Next Makan
4th June Mrs Stella Iris Whitbread, Mother of Norm Whitbread. Lance D. Chapman - Riverwood, 2220 Lance's father, Horace David Chapman, had been Secretary of the 30 Bn. (1914/18) and was 64 years of age when he died. Lance thanked us for the Battalion card expressing sympathy with his family and the 30 Bn at the passing away of his father and their Secretary. Our enquiries as to who would be their next Secretary for the 30 Bn brought a reply that stowed how decimated are the ranks of our allied Battalion of the 1st World War. He is Vic. Smith, East Brighton, Victoria, and we learnt that they had only four Veterans in the 1980 Anzac Day March and two of those with Mr. Chapman had died now. Lance gave Bruce Ford one of the 30 Bn's Banners, requesting that, if possible, our Association might see if it could be carried in the Anzac Day March this year, and/or future years, if there are any left able to march. (Now in safe keeping at R.S.L. Hqts. for future use on Anzac Days, Lance.) Betty MacIver - Blacktown, 2148 Betty writes, "Thank you for your sympathy and to the Men of the Battalion on the loss of our dearly loved Sister, Sister-in-law and Aunt, Elmo Lenz. Your kindness is very much appreciated. Sincerely, Don, Betty and Judy." Other Announcements Harry and Shirley Jarrett - Loftus, 2232 - B Company - Jarrett - Gandy The announcement with that heading appeared in the Sydney Morning Herald recently - "The engagement is announced of Leanne Gai, youngest daughter of Mr. & Mrs. J.H. Gandy of Como to Brian Charles, second son of Mr. & Mrs. H. Jarrett of Loftus." Your scribe does not usually look at these items, but it caught his eye this time. Felicitations to the young couple. Auxiliary Activities Schooner Trip on Sydney Harbour Saturday, May 9th 36 folk of all ages went on this trip. Quite a unique and new way to see the Harbour, as the schooner tacked back and forwards to get the advantage of the wind. The boat arrived on time at the Quay and left at 10 am. The weather was good for such an outing, although the wind rose a little on the way back so that the gunwale dipped and a few sitting on it and not moving quickly were a trifle wet on their nether regions. One chap lost his hat in these circumstances too. Another has remarked that he saw it and thought, "That looks like --X's-- hat, (Your scribe is not allowed to say who it is, other-wise X has threatened to cut his throat.) and sure enough it was X's hat, which he had procured in Singapore a little while ago, and he says that he cannot afford to go back at this stage to get a replacement for outings and picnics as this. The schooner left the party at Shark Island, where they enjoyed their lunches in the sun. Bob and Sylvia Surtees were in the party. Bob had had the good idea to bring some of his Army snapshots with him and they were eagerly passed around and commented upon. Most of C Company would have known, but few in other Companies might have known that Bob not only took his camera with him to Malaya, but also had his developing outfit, so that his hobby was not over expensive for him, but also allowed him greater scope in the variety and number of photos of those days. The Party was joined in the afternoon by the son of one of our Members, coming over from one of the harbourside suburbs in an outboard "Tom Thumb" of such a diminutive nature that many of the men marvelled at him risking himself in it. The schooner returned for the party, having been away taking another party around the Harbour foreshores, and they returned to Luna Park Wharf up to time, and our reporter paid a tribute to the organisers for a good day had by all; a good experience and a new idea. Ray Rickards was pleased to meet Bob Surtees, he says, as he hadn't seen Bob since Changi days. He also said that he met a chap from Budgewoi, who had been a P.O.W. in German hands and learnt quite a lot of his experiences. Ray's day was therefore a memorable one for him. Regular Meeting of the Auxiliary on First Thursday of May was reported as making for a good afternoon. Pat Nossiter advised meeting with Alexander (Mike) Denholm, who had been in 10 Platoon, B Company, had gone on "A" Force, through Burma, Thailand and went over to Japan, where his camp worked in coal mines. He was in ward 610 at Concord, undergoing various tests to see why he should have lost about a stone in weight in about a month recently. Alex or Mike's home is Yagoona, so you will see that your scribe made a blue in the last amendments to the List of Members, putting in Alex's brother Angus of Lithgow in error. Pat Nossiter had found Joe Halsall in Concord also. Joe lives at Blakehurst. Annual General Meeting held at P.S.A. Club, 515 Kent St. City on Friday, 3rd April 1981 Arch Thorburn, occupied the chair. 14 Members were present. Apologies were received from Noel Johnston, Garry Evans, Eric Arps, Joe Geoghegan, Bob Morrison, Ray Rickards, Les Melrose, Ray Brown, Reg Napper and Andy Noble. Arch Thorburn read the names of those, who had died since the last Annual Meeting:
Our Patron, Colonel G.E. Ramsay One minute's Silence was observed as a mark of respect. President's Report Covering the Year 1980 This year marks the loss of our Patron, Colonel G.E. Ramsay, E.D. M.I.D. I take this opportunity to place on record the sincere respect of the Association for our departed Patron. I think that you would all agree that the high point of the year's activities was the Reunion at Tamworth, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of formation of the Battalion. The appreciation of the Executive is extended to those persons in country and suburban areas, who have been instrumental in gathering our men together at regional P.O.W. Reunions in such places as the Far North Coast, Mid North Coast, Grafton, Riverina, Granville and Cooma. You will recall that the Battalion Song, "Galleghan's Greyhounds", was played in the March last Anzac Day and created a lot of interest. Subscriptions to the Malaysia Singapore Committee have resulted in a Malay widow, whose husband had had 23 years Army Service, and was 45 years old, when he died, leaving her with a family of 5, 3 girls and 2 boys, living in a kampong on the Gemas side of Tampin, being assisted. An active and enthusiastic Association Auxiliary has come into being as a result of the interest of next of kin and the enthusiasm Ron Maston. The Auxiliary gives to members the opportunity to be identified with the Association in a positive way. Other usual activities comprised:
"B.J" Memorial Bowls Day at Bankstown R.S.L. Bowling Club. You are all well aware of the crucial and splendid work of cur "Makan" Editor. I take the opportunity on your behalf to extend to Alex Dandie the sincere thanks and appreciation of all Members and Next of Kin of this Association. It is with profound regret that I announce that Alex has indicated that the state of his health will preclude him from continuing to be "Makan" Editor and a successor will have to be sought for this vital position. Kevin Ward, with the assistance of a small band of helpers, has continued to give close attention to welfare matters, hospital visitation and communication between people on the Executive. The main burden of organizing the Tamworth Reunion fell on the Treasurer and the Assistant Treasurer. As well they had the routine duty of attending to the finances of the Association. I regret that, due to trouble with his sight, Alan Pryde will not be available for nomination as Treasurer this year. His work has been meticulous. The sincere thanks of the Association have extended to him for a job well done. We hope that he will still be able to take a place on the Executive. With our declining numbers and the effects of the passing years of our Men there is increasing difficulty obtaining people, who are able or willing to give their time and energies to serve on the Executive. Any persons, who would be able to accept appointment to the Executive, would be performing a valuable service to the Association. Hon. Treasurer’s Annual Report for Year ended 30 December, 1980 The financial year under review experienced some considerable variations to those prevailing over recent years. As was to be expected the costs incurred in the production and distribution of "Makan" rose by $800. This was offset to some extent by donations totalling $195 specifically nominated for furthering our journal, Members' Fees and Subscriptions. Non-recurring expenditure included the purchase of 3 Battalion Plaques for presentation to kindred groups ($234); lapel badges and the printing of the musical score of our Battalion March. Interest credited to our Savings Bank Account at the end of the year was $2549, down $260 on the balance at the end of the preceding year. This is not unexpected and hardly a matter of concern, as we overspent our gross income by $265 during the year. Nevertheless, it should be borne in mind that $2090 (equal to 4/5ths) of the cash in our Bank Balance comprises fees and subscriptions held as advance payments and some much lesser sums, designated for specific purposes. The simple fact is that, despite our credit balance in our Savings Account, by far the greater part of such amount has to be available for specific dispersal, should the need arise. Our $7,000 in Commonwealth Bonds is our security backing if it need be. You will be well aware that our very good mate "Jock" Logan died in July of last year. He was very highly regarded by all of us and was an ardent supporter of our Association. He rarely missed an occasion to be with the Boys, especially at any of the activities in the Northern Rivers area. In his will Jock made a bequest of $1000 to the Association, to be used for furthering the interests of Members. This money has now been received and invested in Commonwealth Bank Savings Investment A/c to earn 10.5% per annum interest (as from deposit date, 20/3/81), with availability on 1 month's notice. No doubt "Jock's" wonderful gesture will be appropriately recognised by our Chairman and Executive officers. As the bequest was not actually received until February of 1981, the investment has not been included in the 1980 accounts. The project to proceed with a further reprint of the Battalion History met with minimal response during the year, but such situation has since improved in consequence of our recent Formation – Anniversary Reunion. All receipts and expenditure in connection with the Reunion were made through an account, which was especially opened for the purpose, so as to ensure that such monies could be kept quite separate from the ordinary financial records. All expenses incurred in this activity were promptly settled. Over $4,000 was involved by subscriptions paid by Members, etc, resulted in a surplus of $96 in such “Special Purpose” Account. A detailed list of income and expenditure, incurred in this regard, was submitted for the perusal of our Honorary Auditor. The renewed stock of badges has met with a good sales response, thanks largely to the personal approach made your Editor/Chief Correspondent throughout the year, especially at gathering such as Anzac Day and the Reunion. Funds received from Members for transmission to such overseas welfare groups as A.I.F Malayan Nursing Scholarship, R.S.L. Aid Abroad and Singapore Saint Patrick’s School Development Scheme, have been remitted periodically in accordance with the directions of your Executive and the donors. Only small sums were held on hand at the close of the financial year. The Association is affiliated with the Australia, Malaya, Singapore Association, of which our Hon. Secretary, Bruce Ford, acts in a similar capacity. As in previous years affiliation fees and/or donations have been made to this and other groups, such as Legacy and N.S.W. Ex-Prisoners of War Association. My grateful thanks go to our Editor/Chief Correspondent, Alex Dandie, for his help and cooperation throughout the year. The Assistant Treasurer, Jack Black, appointed by the Executive to stand in for me, should I have to go to hospital during the tear, was always available and willing to help. He certainly did this in his vital role in regard to Reunion finances. To our Hon. Auditor, Andy Noble, I am indebted for his helpful advice and prompt attention to the financial records submitted for his auditing. It in not without more than a little regret that I find that it is not possible for me to again submit my name for nomination for re-election as Honorary Treasurer. My close vision near sight problems, as distinct from medium and longer vision makes reading and writing difficult for me. Despite the very good attention given me by Repat since 1946, nothing can now be done to sufficiently alleviate such proximity vision problem as to warrant further accounting and figure work. Statement of Receipts and Payments for Year Ended 31 December 1980
Auditors' Report We have examined the above statement with the records of 2/30 Bn A.I.F. Association and in our opinion the statement is a true record of all monies received and expended by the Association during the year ended 31 Dec. 1980.
Duesbury, Johnston & Marks Balance Sheet as at 31 December 1960
Report of "Makan'' Editor/Chief Correspondent for Year to 31/12/80 "Makan" printed in this last 12 months were numbered 252 Jan/Feb, 253 Mar/Apr, 254 May/Jul, 255 Aug/Sep, 256 Oct – A Salute to "Gentleman George", 257 Oct/Nov, and 258 December. In sizes they were - 52 pages + 32 page address List Supplement, 56 pages, 52 pages + 8 page Annual Report Supplement, 56, 48, 60 and 52 ; with 12 page "Gemas Day" Supplement , plus many single page supplements for Changes in the Address List, Reunion and Auxiliary notices. It could be said that Members were given 396 pages of Magazine, in which the items were mainly those submitted or culled from Members. It is quite evident that the Members accept is as their contact with their mates. Part of the donations from some Members having been used to send "Makans" to men, who have been out of touch, have been well compensated for by receipt of fees and donations from some of those, who have been helped, in this fashion, and the reward to the respective donors is the knowledge of the thanks from the recipients, as they say, in most cases, something like, "I know not who is or was, responsible for sending or "Makan" to me, but I thank, whoever caught up with me, for the good deed." Typing during the year has been shared by the Editor, Linda, daughter of "Doc" Wilson, until she left for an overseas trip, and then Mrs Jennifer Cox, and we are grateful for their assistance. The "Makan" Team has grown in numbers and, while some are not able to help always with each issue, other volunteers come forward or make themselves available on being asked to take their places. We have lost George Winchester permanently and Ray Rickards had to lay off under doctor's orders for a while following his heart attack, but Jack Maclay and he, Tommy Yates and Jean and Fred Johnston now constitute the mainstays of the Team, assisted by Joe and Georgina Geoghegan, Ray Brown, "Dutchy' Holland, Jim Walshe, Bob Surtees, Edith Berman, Ron Maston, "Doc” and Clover Wilson and "Jock" McDougall. Circulation of "Makan" at the end of 1979 was 521 and at 31/12/80 had risen to 560. Despite deaths of 18 Battalion Members, of whom only 3 had not keen receiving "Makan", there was an increase in Membership of Annual and life Members combined of a net 9. Next of Kin figures were reduced by the death of Jean Jones (wife of Vic, D Company) and three, whose "Makan" were returned by the Post Office, wives of Lew Cohen, Ted Watts, and Keith Richardson, but their total was increased with "Makan" being sent to most N.O.K. of those Members, who had died during the year, and also by adding to the list, Mrs Mary Benson, Sister of Sam & Don Watts, B Company; Lesley Jordan, wife of Dave (Pioneers), Lesley sands, wife of Dr. John Sands, so that their figures showed a net increase of 12. The Specials List has been increased with "Makan" being sent to (1) 2/29 Bn; (2) 2/9 Field Ambulance & Ex-P.O.W. Association Vic.; (3) Australian War Museum, Canberra and (4) Trevor Gillespie (stepbrother of Jeff Gillespie, B Company) on his payment of Annual Fee, but loss of Dr. John Sands leaves a net increase of 3. "Specials by Donations", those Battalion Members, who have their "Makan" fees paid by generous friends in the Association, increased by 29, as addresses were found, and 14 of them became financial in their own rights by sending along fees and donations, thus justifying this use of those donations, net increase here is 15. The cost of production of "Makan" has increased. Take out of a budget for 1981 indicated that it would cost about $4.50 per annum to place each copy in the hands of Members. A similar take-out in Dec. 1979 for the year 1980 had shown a rise expected, to be to $3.00 p.a. for that year, but the Executive had decided to leave the “Makan" Fee as it was and has been for some years at $1.50 with any shortfall to be met from General Funds. The Nerve troubles of your Scribe and his domestic situation did not allow the Executive to make any consideration as to what the amount of the 1981 fee should be at the Dec. Meeting and over the period Dec/Jan/Feb the figure of $1.50 was used in preliminary Bookkeeping with Members, Subs in Advance Balances. In order not to have to do all that work again - (4 people in each of 4 day long working periods and completed only by another 2 in another 2 such working periods), $1.50 was decided on with a Sub-Committee, which met the Editor in February for a discussion on the future of “Makan” and the Editorship, for a Submission to the Executive, but also for Members to be warned that there must be an increase for 1982. A figure of $3.00 p.a. for 1981 onwards being decided as suitable for the submission, with costs over that figure to be absorbed in general funds and, hopefu11y, donations from Members as in the past. Your Executive has been advised of some features which have been mentioned in Correspondence with your Scribe so that appropriate action could be taken as the Executive thought fit. Your Scribe has been able to continue assisting Stan Arneil with his project of having his P.O.W. Diary published, since he is the custodian of most of the Battalion’s old records, and, knowing that Stan had also agreed to tackle the writing of "B.J.’s” Biography, your scribe took it upon himself, without any reference to Stan, to suggest to your Executive, that Stan be granted assistance in the Projects, since our Constitution sets out one of the Objects of the Association is "to arrange for the publication and sale of the story of the 2/30 Bn A.I.F.", and both of the projects could be regarded as being within those terms. The Executive asked Noel Johnston to interview Stan, in order to find out his situation. Following Noel's report back to the Executive, at its October Meeting, it was decided that "Stan’s Personal expenses in connection with the Biography of "B.J." should be subsidized to the extent of $500, such amount to be available at call.” Our various Area Representatives continue to be of great help with information on local events, especially Reunions, and the activities of Battalion Members and their assistance is greatly appreciated. Your scribe cannot but feel gratified at the many compliments paid by Members for the way news of their mates come to them in "Makan", especially because they rightly include thanks for the "Team's" work in those compliments, since your scribe could not operate without the "Team". We, in reciprocation, acknowledge that we could not do without the correspondence, which we receive, and thank all our contributors, their wives and their friends, who pass on tit bits of news. Thank you one and all. Hospital Visitation And Welfare Kevin Ward expressed his appreciation of the assistance from Garry Evans and Joe Geoghegan over the year. He reported on the sad condition of Alex Olley. He had also ascertained the positions of Maurice Hourigan and Jack Burke, our two men in Dalby, Q'ld, arising from the recent floods in that District, but assistance from the Association is not called for, as the Queensland Government, R.S.L. and Ex-P.O.W. Association were making grants. Arch Thorburn made the sad report that Margaret Mitchell, wife of Jim, HQ Company. Quartermaster, was very sick. Reports by Ron Maston
Auxiliary A committee of 8/10 people has been set up for the purpose of visiting Association Members and their relatives in hospital.
Aid Overseas Fred Johnston and his wife, Jean, recently visited the family. The home is well kept. The eldest girl (23 years) is paralysed as a result of a cycle accident. Another girl is paralysed from polio. The Returned Service Association of Negri Sembilan looks to the family's interests. Fred suggests assistance of this kind could be projected to others in need. Election of Officers, after positions had been declared vacant, resulted as is set out on page 1 of the "Makan". Notice of Motion The Notice of Motion appearing in the Notice of Meeting viz: Honorary Life Membership be granted to Alexander Dandie - was placed before the Meeting by Kevin Ward, seconded by Jack Black. The motion was carried unanimously. Fred Johnston is to investigate the possibility of obtaining an appropriate badge without having to go to the expense of gold and is report to the Executive. General Business
(1)
A motion
was passed expressing appreciation of Alan Pryde's years of service as
Treasurer and his devotion to the affairs of the Association. Coupled
with this expression goes thanks of the Executive to his charming wife,
Betty, for her part in helping Alan over the years. (2) It was recommended – a. that a Mixed Reunion be held on 16 Oct. to coincide with the National Reunion of Ex-P.O.W., in lieu of having it in November. b. that Jack Black be empowered to look fed a venue for 100/150 people, and to report back to Executive.
(3)
Alan
Pryde advised that people, have been seeking cassettes of the song/march
"Galleghan's Greyhounds". George Aspinall can supply music, if tape is
sent to him at time of request being made. Sandwiches for Anzac Day Arch Thorburn is to find out whether Betty Collins will be providing sandwiches. If she does not wish to continue, Grace Ford would be prepared to assist. The Association would have to bear cost. Ron Maston will contact Mrs. Ford if her assistance is required. Anzac Day - 1981 The weather for this year's Anzac Day March was to our advantage. Whilst your scribe's memory is no good these days, if he has not made a written note to help him, I feel that I can say that the organisation of the march must have been better than many others, because I cannot recall that we were subjected to the annoying halts to break the rhythm of the marching and we also had the advantage of a strong band in the rear, which played with little break between their pieces. Alan Pryde, as usual, carried out his check of numbers of the Battalion on parade. He announced that there were 78 lined up. Jimmy Saunderson was with us in the general gathering together in Elizabeth St. before the march and went down towards Pitt Street before we moved off, so that he might be in one of the taxis or cars at the front. We heard later that he was befriended by our cobbers the 2/19 Bn, whose C.O. Col Anderson VC MC, who turned 84 in February of this year, was down from Canberra to be with his Lads this Anzac Day; and they put Jim in the Car they had for Col. Anderson. Your scribe saw Jim at the Western end of Hyde Park in Elizabeth St. with a friend and was assured that he was in excellent hands. Another who was there on the footpath to see us move off was "Snowy" Stevens; who seemed half as broad as he's tall, but knew he was in no condition to march. There were several down from the Country. "Bill" Desmet was in the forefront, you might say, because he had come down from Canberra and was to carry the Bn. Banner. Airline strike was no barrier to him coming down to have that honour, although he had some inconvenience in having to make it by bus, leaving Canberra late on the Friday. Bill Sorenson and Arty Power from Kyogle received a great welcome and occupied positions in the front "twelve", as also Jack Collins, who had come from South Grafton with Harry Rhodes. Norm King was on the other end of the front "twelve" and Jimmy Speers was sorry to have missed having a yarn with him, while he was down from Byron Bay, although he did see other Don Company Lads. Andy Hyslop, now that he has recovered from the debilitating effect of his operation, and sparking on all four, was down from Umina. Jim McIntosh, another from Canberra, was delighted to meet up with 3 of his old 7 Platoon mates, Sammy Hall, Eric Arps and Dan Ross, whom he had not seen in 40 years. Ron Ollis managed to get away from Hawke’s Nest, and Gordon McKnight could be called "country" because he commutes between Kenthurst and Newcastle during the week, helping his son up there with his Cement Mixing Plant, Athol Charlesworth made it from Leura, while Arthur Buckingham from Killarney Vale lined up alongside Darcy Pickard, Zipper Charlton and Tiger Sylvester but somehow or other, when the division into "sixes" occurred he was to be found alongside another pair of "B" Company men, Alf Austin and Frank Sullivan. "Bull" Cody came up from Shellharbour with his son Alan, and Wally Scott was from Fairymeadow. Jimmy Hill for the second year in succession was in his wheelchair with his son-in-law to look after him and steer the chair along with the group. Another N.O.K. marcher was, as has been usual now for some years, Jack Heasman's son Jack. Then down at the southern end of Hyde Park, Les Hall introduced to some of us, Jim Busine and two of his sons; Jim's father Tommy had been on "A” Force but died after the amputation of one of his legs, and because of the beri-beri and malnutrition. The count before we moved off had been 78 but later it was said to be 85. Then down at the After March Get-together in the Rooms of the N.S.W. Ex-P.O.W. Association others came along to meet their cobbers. Noel Johnston had not been recovered from his operation sufficiently to march, but he had made the decision earlier that, come what may, he would do his best to be in the rooms. Ray Body was from Raymond Terrace. Reg Napper made his first appearance since his return from overseas. "Porky" Moore, Reg Nossiter, Max McClelland, Ray Rickards were there. We had said earlier that some of the Bn. Auxiliary would be helping the Ex-P.O.W. Ladies Auxiliary in their attention to the eating wants of whoever came into the Club, while their liquid refreshments were obtainable from the Bar or, if they desired only tea or coffee, the ladies would have that for them too. So, we had Gretta Maston, Norma Christensen, Grace Ford, Muriel O'Rourke, Pat Nossiter, Heather McClelland moving around and looking after everyone. Lady Galleghan came in during the afternoon. A box of sandwiches was provided, despite my error in last "Makan" of not crossing out the negative in the announcement of proceedings for Anzac Day. They had been prepared by Grace Ford and Norma Christensen and were very palatable and welcome. It was very pleasing and deserves mention that several of the officers came to the Rooms; staying quite a while having a beer or two with folk. It was noticeable, as always, that there are a few, who do not come to the general Get-together but go off to the Club, Pub or home of one of their group. Such actions are a matter of sorrow to others, who have known that they were in our marching group and had hoped for a natter with them, especially, in the Rooms. Your scribe has a confession to make and apology is due to someone. Two notes, $6.00 in all, were given to him for Subs. whilst we were in Elizabeth Street. At the instant of receiving the money I knew, who gave the money to me, BUT I NEVER WROTE DOWN HIS NAME. I KNOW IT WAS $6 as it did stick in my memory that there was the smaller denomination note showing inside the other. HOWEVER I FOOLISHLY THOUGHT THAT I WOULD REMEMBER HIS NAME. HE HAD NOT STOPPED, BECAUSE HE HAD SPOTTED SOMEONE, and the next lot of money was in my hands. The name of that next payer was noted and the amount of his payment written down, AND THEN I JUST HAD NO MEMORY OF WHO THE EARLIER CHAP WAS, NOR CAN I PICTURE HIS FACE, AS I BRING TO MIND THE INCIDENT. The Treasurer has the money, but we do not know to whom we have to credit it. Please let me know who you are. Enquiries for different chaps in the Battalion were made both in Elizabeth St. and at the P.O.W. Rooms. The first one in Elizabeth St. was Bill (W.A.) Davison, NX37297, who transferred to the 2/20 Bn, when we were at Batu Pahat on 18/10/41 because his brother was in that Unit. When he was with the 2/30 Bn, Bill had been in C Company, so that he was looking for some C Company men to renew acquaintances, but, at that particular moment, there was not one C Company in sight. However his address is Cabramatta; he would be glad if any old cobbers would get in touch with him. Then A. ("Mick") Armstrong, 2/29 Bn., a member of the Parramatta R.S.L. Sub Branch and one, who looks after that Sub-Branch's Day Care Centre, where Eric (Teddy or Happy) Bahnsen goes for therapy, and for whom we are seeking another Nursing Home to the one, in which he is at Harris Park, as it has too many senile patients for his peace of mind, was asking if anyone knew anything of J.L. ("Butch") Langley who had been in B Company, "Bill" Jones' Platoon. Allan Dobbs, brother of Jack Dobbs, was on the footpath, hoping to see Jack. He says that he is invariably in the March, but presumed that he would have to look for him with the Korean Contingent or Water Transport, though Alan stayed until we were ready to march, in the hope of seeing him. "Snow" G.F. Williams' son, Brian, was introduced to your scribe. He lives at Beverly Hills and is one of those, who would like a couple of copies of the Third Edition of the Battalion History, should we get enough orders to go to print again. Arch McDiarmid was asking at the Ex-P.O.W. Rooms for the latest news of Ted Condie, as he had not had a reply to a letter. How are you Ted? Can you scribble a line? Anzac Day at Bathurst - 25 Aril 1981 - Report by Jack Maclay The Bathurst visit on this occasion was beyond its usual standard. Our acceptance by the Bathurst R.S.L. Club was excellent. Our delegation of 10, people beyond reproach. Eight of us attended the Dawn Service. It was a very inspiring service in the eerie first light of day. All the party attended the Anzac March, followed by the Commemoration Service at the Carillon. An excellent Service, well attended by the young and old of the Bathurst District. A goodly party of folk attended the placing of our wreath on the 8 Div. "Broken Blade" immediately following the Anzac Service. At 3 o'clock some 100 folk attended at the Limekilns Rd. site, where a simple service conducted by Ron Brownlow, Pres. of the R.S.L. Club, assisted by Alderman Locke of Bathurst City Council, Canon Vincent and Col. Watson took place, Les Hemming and Fred Johnston placed wreaths on the respective Cairns; Joe Geoghegan recited the Ode, and Jack Maclay thanked those who had attended for their help and hospitality on this occasion. Mr. Ron Brownlow was presented with our Battalion Plaque and he assured all present that it would hang with pride and respect in the Bathurst Club. At 5 o'clock the Hemming Family, Les, Dorothy and their two sons, attended the Sunset Service at the War Graves Cemetery. The rest of us attended 'Retreat' at the close of the day. Our thanks go out to the Cadets, who mounted Guard at the Cairns - to the R.S.L. Band, whose Members rendered the appropriate music - and particularly to Col. Watson and Ron Brownlow for their untiring efforts on our behalf on this day. Those good, 2/30th folk attending, were - Fred & Jean Johnston, Merv & Georgina Geoghegan, Thelma Jones, Les & Dorothy Hemming with their two sons and Jack Maclay. Unfortunately for Jack Carey, who had set his heart on being there, his doctor had forbidden him to make the trip. We had an excellent weekend and our Battalion was well represented officially and socially on this the 40th Anniversary at Bathurst. I can only hope that we can all attend on further occasions. Betty Pryde has Commented For many years I have stood at the G.P.O. corner of Martin Place, mostly accompanied by Ene Morrison, to cheer you along. But this year Ene was not able to be with me, as Bob, having recently been in North Shore Hospital having had an Angina attack, was keeping quiet at home, preparatory to having an operation at North Shore for a vein graft heart triple bi-pass. I understand that the operation being over, he is out of intensive care, and, although there was trouble one morning, necessitating hooking him up on to machines again, he is recovering. We hope this will overcome any chance of him having any more Coronary or Angina attacks. Being the 40th Anniversary of the formation of the W.A.A.F.’s, for the first time I marched with the W.A.A.F.’s and as you will all know, the females were given, for this Anniversary, the privilege of leading the World War II Marchers. But the usual sequence of "Navy, Army, Air Force" in our group was carried out. I guess, from the gathering, the W.A.A.F.’s had the largest number and the Head of the W.A.A.F.’s led the female forces. Unfortunately, due to some disorganisation and a shortage of Bands, our large group of W.A.A.F.’s didn't have a Band, but once we were into George Street, someone in the group started singing "Waltzing Matilda", and we endeavoured to keep singing war time songs to achieve some step along the way, until we reached Hyde Park. Then joined by four other of my W.A.A.F. Associates, we took up our positions in the forefront in Bathurst Street and cheered the other Marchers along. Especially, when the 2/30th came into view. I know that the boys heard our loud acclamation, because we had many waves and cheers. My friends commented how well you all were marching, even so close to the end of the March. The 85 Members passed by so quickly, but you look grand and you marched well. Alan and I were sorry that Noel Johnston was not sufficiently recovered from his operation to lead the Battalion on Anzac Day, but it was grand that he was able to drive into the rooms to see all the boys, and grand that he insisted on driving Alan home. We have the most wonderful regard for Noel Johnston throughout our 40 years friendship (and of Babe). After all the years he has been 'Acting Patron' during "Gentleman George's" prolonged illness and subsequent incapacity, it's great that Noel is now our Patron. He certainly deserves it. BETTY also expressed her thanks in a note, "Congratulations to Ron Maston for the wonderful day, that he organised on Saturday, 9th May on the schooner, "Blue Skies", and a big thank you to the other Members of the Auxiliary who helped Ron in the organisation. Weatherwise we were exceedingly fortunate - good sunny balmy autumn weather. The slow sailing around the harbour, close to the bays and points of the southern side (Eastern suburbs) was delightful. Many may not have lived, as I have most of my life, on the foreshores of both sides of the harbour, but even to me there was somewhat of a new perspective to the scenes. We had a most agreeable gathering under calm, warm conditions for our picnic lunch and chatter on Shark Island. I really think that we had this most beautiful island entirely to ourselves. Georgina Geoghegan had made a most delectable fruit cake, which was handed round to all. Two very attractive young lasses (by courtesy of Jack Maclay) handed the cake around to us all. The schooner picked us up from the Island in the afternoon and, whilst the sun still shone upon us, a good breeze came, "the sailor's delight", and it gave us much fun and excitement on the way back to Milson's Point. Perhaps one or two may have been a little uncomfortable or apprehensive, but generally we enjoyed the good excitement of the sailing conditions. The members of the crew were exceedingly good and polite, and I would certainly recommend a trip on the Harbour in the "Blue Skies". Our personal thanks to Jack Black, who picked Alan and me up and took us to the launching point at Milson's Point. How fortunate that the Association is to have him. He certainly does a grand job, looking after, and thinking about the, 'oldies' or the temporarily indisposed. Alan and I will be eternally grateful to him for the little jobs he did for us, when Alan went to Concord for his eye operations earlier in the year. Our sincere regrets that Alex now is not well enough to continue as Editor/Chief Correspondent. He has done a grand job, he's put far more time and effort into the work, than could be expected of any one person. Our thanks to Alex. (don't forget, Betty, that his big effort of Chief Correspondent will continue for, I hope, a great many years to come. Jock). We do sincerely trust that with the new boys and new arrangement, the Association with the continuing old members, not forgetting our excellent Secretary, Bruce Ford, will be able still to carry on the wonderful work done throughout the years. It is especially the country boys and their wives, and the widows, who have gained enjoyment from the contacts and communication, that "Makan" has provided. My personal thanks to the Executive, to Alex, and to previous Editors/Chief Correspondents of the Association. Best wishes to all, Betty Pryde." R.S.L. Aid Abroad - Assistance by 2/30 Bn Association People Ron Maston is pleased to report, "A Malaysian Family has been selected by the Negri Sembilan Branch of the Ex-Service Association of Malaysia and the contributions made last year by Members of our Association supporting the plan have formed part of the payment made already to the Family. It was decided to select a deserving widow and family, as near as possible to Sungei Gemencheh, which was the site of the ambush on 14/1/1942, and, in so doing, make up for the fact that we could not place a plaque on the bridge in 1979. The widow's name is ZALIHA BTE ABDULLAH, and her address is KAMPONG PONDOI - W.P. TEBONG, MELAKA. Her date of birth is 5/2/1941 and she works as a rubber tapper. Her husband, AHMED BIN LEWEH, died on 8/11/1979 at the age of 45. He served in the ROYAL MALAY REGIMENT from 24/11/1952 until 23/11/1971 and held the rank of Corporal, when he was discharged. There are five children, two of whom are total cripples and are confined to the house. Two are at school and one is working. KAMPONG PONDOI is 9 miles along the main road from TAMPIN, and is approximately 23 miles from GEMAS. Fred and Jean Johnston recently made a five week visit to Malaysia and Singapore and stayed for 3 nights at the SUNGEI UJONG CLUB in SEREMBAN, which is the capital of NEGRI SEMBILAN STATE. They were taken to PONDOI to meet the widow Zaliha and her family. Fred took photos of the family and one of these has been sent to Members, who made donations. We sent $Aus 300 ($738.30 Malaysian) on 20/7/80 and this was being given to the family by the Negri Sembilan Branch of the E.S.A.M., which has been helping us in the project, on the basis of $61 per month, thus helping with day to day living expenses. The balance of $434 was handed to Zaliha by Fred and Jean, at the request of the Negri Sembilan Branch of E.S.A.M. They felt that it would be a nice gesture for Fred and Jean to do this at the time of their visit to the family. The plan is to send $300 (Australian) each year to the Negri Sembilan Branch and they will continue the distribution on a monthly basis, as they had done in the beginning, to the widow ZALIHA. We are requesting that any annual donation, which any Member of our Association feels like making, be sent along at any time, as an annual contribution will give continuity to the plan, and please do not feel constrained to treat it that you are required to make any donation outside your means. Whilst we will welcome large donations from any, who can do so, a regular $1 a year even is welcomed for the thought behind it. Fred and Jean say that they were greatly impressed with the goodwill that this gesture has created, and we follow up this note with Fred's story of their visit. Anyone from the Association visiting Malaysia, and wishing to visit the family, is asked to please contact Ron Maston. Fred & Jean Johnston's Story of Their Visit to the Widow Zaliha and Family, 14/2/1981 We arrived at SUNGEI UJONG CLUB, SEREMBAN, on the 13th February; after settling in we rang HAJI ABDUL RAHMAN, the Secretary of the NEGRI SEMBILAN Branch of E.S.A.M. and arranged to meet him at 10.30 am the next day at the Club. When we saw him he said that there would be some others coming along, and it turned out that some of them had to travel about 100 miles to meet us. Nine of them arrived. After introductions and having a chat with them Jean and I were taken to luncheon at the Club. (Incidentally for those who were on the trip in 1979 Mr. Jackman received a decoration from the Government last year, recognition that he had built the Club up - since he has been there, it has never made a loss.) After the lunch RAHMAN and three others took us to see the Malaysian Ex-Serviceman's Widow and family, who live at KAMPONG PONDOI TEBONG near TAMPIN. Her name is ZALIHA BTE ABDULLAH. Her husband served in the Malaysian Armed Forces for 20 years and died in 1979 only aged 45 years, leaving 5 children (3 girls and 2 boys). The children's names are:‑
NORAINI B.T. AHMAD – born 5/9/1957 – invalid NORAINI is paralysed from the waist down, due to a fall from her pushbike as a school girl; NOREIDA had Polio as a child and is also paralysed from the waist down, and she will never walk. Also her arms are partly paralysed; NORZILA is still going to school, and can speak reasonably well in English; NOORWIZAM is going to school still also; NORZAILAN is going to work. The mother works as a rubber tapper. We did not see the two boys, but we did meet the widow's mother and father, and also her grand-mother, who is 103 years old, but does not look it. We gave the children two books on Australia and it was pleasing to see them looking through them and their excitement at receiving the gifts. At the request of the E.S.A.M. Negri Sembilan Branch, Fred presented to the Widow the balance of the money, a sum of $434 Malaysian, of that money which our Association had sent over to support the family, the rest having been given to her already in monthly amounts by them. We had learnt that HADI ABDUL RAHMAN, the Secretary of the E.S.A.M. Branch was the Projects Manager for some Housing Developers. The current project was for 6,500 houses. All were terraced, and differently to Singapore development, Negri Sembilan does not have high rise buildings. They also do not put the dwellings up and down hills. They flatten the hill; the spoil being used to fill elsewhere. As they progress in the construction of the estates they have 'instant' trees 10 feet high, The hole is dug, a tree is brought along, lowered into the hole with the necessary cultivation and the team moves on to establish the next tree. It takes only 57 minutes to put up a 2 bedroom unit as use is made of prefabricating the parts, so the progress is astounding. At Kuala Lumpur we met MUBIN SHEPPARD again and had lunch with him, the President of the Ex-Servicemen's Association in that city and some Members of Parliament, and on Noel Johnston's behalf presented to their Branch the Bn. Plaque, which Noel had arranged to have made at his own expense, in reciprocation for the gift to him of their plaque on his visit there last year. We went down to Malacca, where we stopped in a hotel of an enormous height. It had 1100 rooms. It had a nice view from the top. We wanted to tyke a 'photo, but, as often happens when there is any delay, we went in for lunch in the restaurant up on top, and instead of a nice clear scenery, we were enveloped in mist and cloud. This hotel also houses a Casino, and people are allowed to gamble in it and at the Racecourses, but nowhere else, and illegal gambling is a punishable offence. In Singapore there is a by-pass road out over the Harbour, and in front of Clifford Pier. We went looking for St. Patrick's School and it took some time to do so. There is now 1000 yards of playing area between it and the sea. A big building project hides it, and you've to cross a 4-lane Traffic roadway." Australia - Malaysia - Singapore Association The 17th Annual General Meeting of this Association, of which "B.J." had been the Founder and its Senior Vice-Pres, until his death, and of which Lady Galleghan is now a Vice-Pres., was held at Menzies Hotel, Carrington St. City on 20th March last. A Guest Speaker at the Meeting was Mr. John E. Ryan, OBE from the Dept. of Foreign Affairs, Canberra, where he is the Deputy Secretary, after extensive service abroad. In his chat he dwelt on the fact that Australia is considered as failing to meet their expectations of it by Malaysia and Singapore, and they reckon Australia can do more economically for them in the trade of goods and services. He explained that to arrive at a proper understanding all matters of common interest between the countries had to be looked at in perspective, Australia's Aviation Policy of the late 1970's hod been challenged by Singapore, which had enlisted ASEAN help, and had succeeded in obtaining some amendment although more was sought still, He commented that during the years 1949-1979 the Australian Government had sponsored 28,000 students to assist with their education. He also said that in the normal course of events it appeared that Sabah would achieve independence in 1984, when it may then be able to apply to become a 6th Member of ASEAN: and in sequence Brunei may be helped in like fashion. The A.M.S. Association's Newsletter No. 1/1981 explains that, with generous assistance from Qantas and The Cold Storage Group of Companies the Association was able to bring 4 fellows to Australia under the terms of the Sir Frederick Galleghan Memorial Awards; which it established in 1976 for 28 days of conferences with Australian colleagues in the vocational field of the selected Fellows. One of the 1980 fellows, Miss Vivien Goh, spent some time in Australia with the Sydney Youth Orchestra; as a result of this both the Sydney and Singapore Youth Orchestras gave a joint concert in Singapore on 28/1/81; Dr. Clive Pascoe went to Singapore and conducted a concert of the Singapore Youth Concert in December of 1980 and further visits are planned. Another fellow, Mrs Catherine Lee-Teng of The Ministry of National Development, Singapore had such a full programme over the four weeks of her stay in Australia, that the Sydney City Council Planning Department took her to lunch on the last day, in order to cope with the whole day of discussion with her. We understand from Bruce Ford, who is Secretary of this as well as of our own 2/30 Bn. Association, that a third fellow, Dr. Zainal Abidan bin Ahmad, a Lecturer in Paediatrics at the University of Malaya Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, whose special interests are in gastroenterology spent the bulk of his time in Sydney in the Departments of Gastroenterology at the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children, Camperdown, and The Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and on his first day at the Children's Hospital a child required an urgent heart operation Dr. Zainal was asked to be the chief surgeon in the operating theatre; a task which he performed very creditably, showing techniques to the Sydney specialists not adopted by them, so that there was two way communication in the practical sense from his visit. An amusing comment concerning one of the Fellows, who had come to Australia in 1979, and who was the Agricultural Economist in the Sarawak Department of Agriculture; was that she had seen so much benefit from all the staff, Senior as well as Junior, having their morning and afternoon "cuppa" together and using that period to discuss activities in which different ones might be engaged at the time, seeking advice on a knotty aspect or detailing ways in which other problems were overcome, in a real Australian type of "Free and Easy" discussion, away from the strict office type of approach, and she had had her Department do the same thing when she returned to Sarawak, where there had been no such contact between Seniors and Juniors, because they had been accustomed to the English "Pukka Sahib" manners of the past. Her experiment was seen by all over there as a great advantage to their work. (not quite the "Hullo Joe", but still an aspect of Australian characteristics so typical of the A.I.F. in Malaya), Naturally funds for these awards are continually being sought by the A.M.S. Association; sometimes in the form of straight out donations, whilst last year there was a fashion show, and a theatre party and supper at the Marion Street Theatre, Killara in Sydney, as another occasion. Both activities are to be repeated this year and advance notice is given of a fashion show at the Wentworth Hotel on Tuesday, 22nd September 1981. Refreshments, smorgasbord style, were offered after the formal business of the Meeting was over. Their President was heard to remark that he had returned that week from a short time in England, where he had been told that the Singapore Tourist Department are contemplating setting up a wax figure model of the scene at the Ford Works at Bukit Timah on the evening of 15th Feb. 1942, when Percival gave in to Yamashita, adjacent to the present set up of the Japanese Capitulation on Sentosa Island (Blakang Mati). British reaction was to oppose it. He wondered if Australians knew of the proposal and what might be their reaction. The Council of the 8 Division And Service Associates A General Meeting of the Council was held on Friday, 3rd April last, at the Combined Services Club, City. Matters dealt with by the Meeting were:
Election of Officers With a change in Secretary otherwise all re-elected. Balance Sheet and Accounts Period 1/6/1979 to 31/3/1981 Expenditure $514.50 - all routine - excess over receipts because all affiliation fees had not been paid. 6 only paid up $100, 10 others had not paid although all had participated in distribution of Trust Funds. Such Excess $155.23. Only income other than Affiliation Fees, Bank Interest - $28.61 and R.S.L. Bldg. Society Interest $230.66. Accumulation A/c as at 31/3/1981 $2,296.97 - $66.31 with Bank of N.S.W. and $2,230.66 R.S.L. Bldg. Society. It was decided to shift this from 8% interest to 11% Interest in a 3 months fixed A/c. Estate Late Haig Lincoln ( "Jock") Logan A letter of 17/2/1981 from Mr. J.T. Capeness of Burleigh Heads to Arch. Thorburn, as our Association's Legal Adviser, says, "I am the Executor of the above Estate and now that probate has been granted to me I am in a position to pay out the legacies under the Will. I now enclose a cheque for $1,000.00 mad out in favour of 2/30 Battalion Association, which is to be used for welfare of indigent members and/or dependents. Our Treasurer has acknowledged to the Executor receipt of the above sum and has deposited it in a Commonwealth Savings Bank Investment Account in the name of the Association. Colonel G.E. Ramsay, E.D. M.I.D. The March 1981 issue of "Barbed Wire Bamboo" Official organ of Ex-Ps.O.W. ASSOCIATION of AUSTRALIA a Valediction to Colonel Ramsay by Men of Ramsay Force, Burma/Siam Railway. "In a lifespan of 81 years a man of George Ramsay's calibre did many things for which he will be remembered with esteem and affection. The men of Ramsay Force will say that the years spent in the Ps.O.W. Camps on the Burma/Siam Railway were his finest hours. Colonel Ramsay commanded a force of approximately 1000 Ps.O.W. drawn from all Australian units. To the men of his own Battalion (2/30) he was already known as Gentleman George and men of other units soon realised that he was aptly named. Although a considerate and mild-mannered man, it soon became apparent that he was a fighter with indomitable courage, if the interests of his men were threatened; normally quietly spoken, on these occasions, his voice hardened and his eyes flashed - as Kipling said, "It was time to beware of the bear". He was an orator of no mean ability and his addresses to the men under his command never failed to get a favourable response and put heart into men whose spirits were down. He had a wonderful sense of humour and of the ridiculous (and there were many examples of this under the Japanese). These qualities gave a new perspective in difficult situations or when the going was toughest. From the commencement of his command his stated aim was to get as many men as possible home in good health. He said "My policy is to defer to the Japanese in minor matters but to stand firm on major issues". And this he did. He made many strong written protests to the Japanese Prisoner of War Command regarding shortage of food, working conditions and unfit men being forced out to work. His health did not seem robust, but he never complained on his own account and never spared himself in his efforts to get the best possible conditions for his men. VALE GEORGE RAMSAY - WE OF RAMSAY FORCE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU WITH AFFECTION AND ESTEEM. (The author of this tribute was Arthur Hence, Adjt. to G.G. "A" FORCE). We take the liberty to quote from other items in the same Magazine. "February 16, just another day to most. On this day, 39 years ago, 23 Sisters were massacred off Banka Island. Many others also lost their lives, for instance, only 1 Sister survived when the "Centaur" was sunk off Queensland. In all 53 Sisters lost their lives in the service of their Country as a result of enemy action. So today a unique Service was held in Memorial Park, August, W.A. (on the Cape Leeuwin Peninsular) "Banka Day Service - Despite boiling heat this annual service had a big attendance. Our Governor, Mr. Keith Seaman and Mrs. Seaman were present. Senator Gordon Davidson O.B.E. gave the address. The 21 nursing Sisters who died at Banka Island 39 years ago and those who lost their lives as Ps.O.W. had their names prominently in the order of service. The South Australian Women's Memorial Playing Fields were a more practical memorial than conventional memorials, said Miss May Mills O.B.E., the Vice President.
"Hibiscus Leaves",
Newsletter of 2/15 Field Regt. A.I.F. Association
Also...."Bamboo Round My Shoulder": One of their men commenting about George Sprod, says, "He always sang "I Dreamt I Lived in Marble Halls" in the P.O.W. Camp at Bukit Timah, but he was no Caruso". (Does anyone, who was there remember. Ed.) Another item about 2/15 men - their M.O., Rowley Richards, has written a book on P.O.W. illnesses - he is at the stage of chasing round for a good publisher. Stan Arneil and His Book, "One Man's War" Stan's book has certainly attracted attention. He had to do two interviews with Caroline Jones on Channel 2, and Channel 10's Maureen Duval also had an interview with him. It was reviewed in The Sydney Morning Herald's Good Weekend, and in the Sunday Telegraph. He had two unsolicited phone calls from two doctors, each unknown to the other, but both wished to let him know that they wished that his book could have been available to them years ago, each said that if it had they would have treated Ex-Ps.O.W. who had come before them in their capacities as local Medical Officers for Repat. they would have had a better understanding of their patients' problems. Now, although it may seem improbable, 'One Man's War' is currently being translated into Japanese by the award winning Japanese Journalist FUJIO NAKANA. The translation is expected to be complete in October and Stan says that the Publisher hopes that it will be printed in Japan in 1982. Stan wishes to thank those members, who have sent in photos, for the assistance that they have given him so far. He is seeking still for photos of Ernie Hurry, Steve Porter, "Stinny" Reinhard, Frank Tuckey, Les Gallard and L. Collins Would those of you, who have photographs of your platoons or sections, please look at them again and see if any of those who are named, are there. A Special Date To Remember The "B. J." Shield BOWLS DAY is at BANKSTOWN R.S.L. BOWLING CLUB, Kitchener Parade, Bankstown. Starting at 9.30 a.m. Country Members may like to put this date into their diary to include this event in their Itinerary, when coming to Sydney, for the Monster NATIONAL EX-P.O.W. RE-UNION 14/18th October 1981. Don't forget all Members wishing to participate please phone KEVIN WARD. Do You Remember? George Hilton Brown - Wagga Wagga - A Company George's welcome letter takes up the threads where he left off some time ago. "As a matter of interest I have a rather remarkable photograph hanging on my dining room wall, and I'm sure that there are many Association Members, who would be interested in the photo. I am enclosing a copy for you to handle, as you see fit. There are many memories, for many men in this photo. (We will try to print it in the "Makan" on some occasion, George, and we thank you for it. Ed), The original photograph was taken about August 1942 at a Japanese bulk breaking down unit, located at St. Andrews School, Serangoon Road. While most of the 2/30 Bn was at Thomson Road and at Holland Road, I had a mixed party of 60 men at St. Andrews, where we had a very good stand for about six months. I don't think B.J. even knew we were there. We certainly had no outside contact, until we went in to River Valley Road, prior to returning to Changi, about November. I managed to bring the original photo home with me. I had copies taken for each man in the photo (still alive, then, that is, discounting the Japs) and posted them out. The copy I'm sending down is a copy of a copy, but it is still very good, I hope that you and others find it interesting. My kind regards to all, George Brown.” (This is an interesting letter because it seems that George and his team might have been sent originally under Bob Morrison to the Great World, and detached from there to St. Andrews, as his name appears on a list of "Personnel 2/30 Infantry Battalion A.I.F. attached to THE TOMI No. 2302 DETACHMENT P.O.W. CAMP GREAT WORLD. Strength 4 Officers, 29 N.C.O.'s., 179 O.R.s, 212 Total as at 4 June '42". Another interesting item of memorabilia pinned to that List is part of a Pay Chit - "PAY DUE TO A.I.F. PERSONNEL RETURNED TO CHANGI FROM Tomi No. 2302 DETACHMENT, GREAT WORLD - Period 21-30 Jun '42". Three of the named men were A.E. STAADER (Carrier Pl.), W. KEIGHLY (A Company) and A.J. SUMMERS (A Company) of 2/30 Bn., others being 18, 19, 20, 29 Bns and 4 Anti Tank men. Description of the parties, to which all the men, who are named on the chit, were attached each day, were "Hygienic Materials, Wharf, Storehouse, Supplying, Collecting, Delivery, Kitchen", so it would appear that they were from the main part of the Great World Party and not with George Brown at St. Andrews School. Ed.) Ken Forward, Yagoona, 2199 – C Company One of Kenny Forward's treasures is a sheet, on which are pasted 4 newspaper cuttings:‑ (No. 1) appeared in a paper dated 15 Jan 1941 - shows the photos of 6 men, and is titled "JOINS UP WITH FIVE SONS". It reads:‑ "When five sons of Mr. Harry Forward, Orchardist of Young enlisted, he was unable to carry on his farm, so he came down to Sydney and enlisted himself. Today he is orderly to Lieutenant-General Sir Iven Mackay, G.O.C. Forces in Australia. A veteran of the last war, he tried to enlist for overseas, but they told him that he was too old at 45. In the first world war he was one of four brothers to enlist, and his father died of an ailment contracted during the South African War. “My boys are scattered everywhere", Pte. Harry Forward declared today. Mervyn, my eldest, is minesweeping aboard H.M.A.S. Moresby. "Tom, aged 25, Ken 21, Stan 20, and Norman 19 are all in the Middle East or elsewhere. "I have one son, Kenneth (13) still at school. He has entered the Boy Scouts and talks about joining up as soon as may be. "Norman was shot twice within six months in 1939", the father went on. "First time during a hare drive he received a full charge from a double-barrelled shotgun. Pellets penetrated his face and eyes, but he received no permanent injury. "Then during rifle practice he got in front of his brother's rifle. A bullet shot away half his liver. His life was saved because kerosene, in which the bullet had been dipped, acted as an antiseptic." (The photos of the six accompanied the article - Dad's address showed as "Don Street, Newtown"; Mervyn as being abroad H.M.A.S. Moresby; Norman as being with the A.I.F. abroad, Middle East; and Ken, Thomas and Stan to satisfy the Censor all shown as - "with the A.I.F. abroad"). (No. 2) showed Kenny's photo, was headed "SEEKING NEWS OF SOLDIERS, and the caption read - "Private Ken Forward (22) 2/30th Bn A.I.F. officially reported missing in Malaya. News sought by mother, Mrs Forward, Newtown". (No 3) is headed ROLL OF HONOUR. WIRRIMAH LAD MAKES SUPREME SACRIFICE and reads, - "After a long, anxious wait since the beginning of the campaign in Malaya, the worst fears of Mr. and Mrs. H. Forward of Sydney, and formerly of Wirrimah, were realised a few days ago, when they received official news that their son Frank had been killed in action. (Readers will understand this better when they know that our "Kenny" owns the initials "F.W.L. as those of his given names. Ed) This was the first intimation of his fate they had received; in fact, they have had no word of him since the disastrous campaign opened. General sympathy was expressed by friends of the family at Wirrimah on this news becoming known." (No 4) headed ""N.S.W. MEN NOW FREE". The following N.S.W. prisoners are now reported safe: "shows an alphabetical list in which appears - NX37294 Pte K. Forward, together with another 12 of 2/30 Bn names. Don Schumacher - D Company Just what did Don Schumacher mean by his Postscript his letter in last "Makan":- The incident happened when the Bn pulled out from Segamat, the way out was down the railway line, a short rest, then back again to cover withdrawal of other Troops, and once again a further withdrawal. The Bn History (p.144) says, "The distance to Yong Peng was covered by a march of about five miles and transport by the 2/3 Reserve M.T. Company for the remainder of the journey, about 40 miles". At one of the forward positions Don had been asleep, when the order to move out came, so sound asleep, one of the just, that he did not hear it, nor the subsequent movements of his mates, and he was not missed by them for the next 24 hours. Consequently, when Don awoke next morning, he found that he was the only one of the Battalion in position to cover any stragglers of the British Forces coming down from the north. Don did not relish doing the job on his own; knowing that the general movement of all troops was southwards, he set off along the main road. A solitary figure, without any rations, no knowledge of how far he would have to go before he even was to reach the front lines of the British, nor how close behind him were the Nips. He was footsore and weary before he came upon the forward outposts of the British. Their first welcome act was to feed him. Then he was put into a truck going south; he was let down when the driver reached some Australian Troops, from whom he obtained directions to reach the 2/30 Bn once more. Another reference to the Bn History at page 216 shows that 75½ miles of the 169½ miles from Gemas to Tyersall Palace had been on foot the way that the Battalion had had to move, but Don does not know just how much more he should claim he covered to catch up with the Battalion. N.C.O's. to the Fore Bob Morrison has commented that after Gemas he didn't have any senior N.C.O.s left; there might have been a L/Cpl or two. It would have been an indication that the Section Leaders really got into their job, urging the men on and showing them an example, and those, who were wounded, must have been picked out by the Jap snipers for that very reason. The Tamworth Reunion certainly was a time for reminiscing. In Bruce Ford's case he unburdened himself to Bob Morrison, saying that he had never forgiven Bob for tearing his shirt at Gemas. Bob had seen that Bruce couldn't carry his rifle, woke up to the fact that Bruce was wounded and tore his shirt, so as to fix the wound until Bruce might reach the R.A.P., but Bruce had bought that shirt not so very long before and did not like to see it go west so easily. L/Cpl Ian ("Horny") Hann - B Company - "A" Force and "Japan" Party Reg Napper brought back from England some of the Rolls for the Australian Sections in different ones of the British Commonwealth War Cemeteries. In looking at the book for the Yokohama (Japan) Cemetery, your scribe discovered that at least one mistake he made, in compiling the Battalion Last Post List, was to say that "Horny" Hann had died in the "Sinking of the Ship" on which he was being conveyed to Japan. His entry reads:- HANN, L/Cpl. IAN GRANT, NX25741 A.I.F. 2/30 Bn. Australian Infantry (Died) 18th February 1945. Age 27. Son of Edward and Carmen Hann; husband of Dorothy Mele Hann, of Glebe, New South Wales, Australia. His resting place is shown as:- Aust. Section. Plot A. Row B. Grave No. 15. The Cemetery is described as being about 6 miles from the centre of the City of Yokohama at Hodogaya on Karibo Cho, which branches off the main Tokaido highway, and as being easily reached by road from Yokohama. It is the only British Commonwealth cemetery in Japan, was constructed in 1945 by the Australian War Graves Group, and is attractively situated in Yuenchi Park. It contains 1,518 graves, but also there are other memorials: an urn containing the ashes of 335 Ps.O.W.; a register for Men of the Occupation Forces, for whom there is no burial or cremation information; and special memorials for men, whose graves could not be located precisely. Kevin Ward - Greenacre, 2190 - A Company Kevin is not as young as some might think he is. He says that he has no less than 2 years to go to his retirement, if all goes well with him. He is now in his 34th year with the Tech College, but as he entered on duty with the Public Service within 12 months from the date of his discharge, he is credited with the years of his war service. After a bit of training he was sent to the Tech. College on a trial basis on the Telephone Exchange and even gave him an extended time for further trial. He has been there ever since. Others of the Battalion were to succeed in the same way. One of these was Jimmy Montgomery. News, Views and Who's Who L.F. ("Darby") Young - Coffs Harbour, 2450 - HQ Darby reported in on 17/3/81, "We will be moving within a fortnight to the above address from Port Macquarie (no phone as yet). Please note the change. In accordance with advice given in "Makan" from time to time and in Reveille, I have been documenting some information which may be helpful to Merle in case I kick the bucket. As I make it I was in sequence in Changi, Selerang Barracks, Thomson Road at Mount Pleasant and Caldecott Hill, and from there amongst those sent straight back to Selarang Barracks again; on "F" Force to Shimo Sonkurai and the "Hospital Camp" at Tanbaya the 50 Kilo; back to Changi again, but to the gaol this time; Adam Road, where I was with Arthur Purdon in X8 Party, which marched out with N1 Party on 17/5/45, and back to Changi after 15th August '45. (We have been able to confirm most of this with Darby. Ed.) With best regards to All. Yours sincerely, Darby." Helen Penman (Karl Sinclair's Daughter) - Tamworth Helen writes, "We had a week at Nelson Bay over the Christmas Vacation; a relaxing time with perfect weather and the boys enjoying the beach and mini-golf. Doug and Geoff are enjoying school. They are both in the High School now, and seem to be as busy as ever. Doug loves his tennis, being very much involved in it this year, (I'd say he takes after Mum and Grandma? Ed.) It has been ever so hot here - and very dry, We wonder if it will ever rain! Mum has been here for several weeks, as she needed some physiotherapy, but she seems much better and on the move again. I enclose Subs for "Makan" as Mum really enjoys reading it. I hope folk are well. Helen". Russ and Marie Mackie - Clunes via Lismore, 2480 - HQ Company Marie says, "Enclosed is cheque for Subs and a little for stamps or something. We are expecting our 13th grandchild next month (written in March. Ed.) Our eldest son and two daughters live reasonably close. Another son lives at Rockhampton, one daughter at Bowral and another at Taree. Our regards to all the boys. Russ and Marie." Harry & Flo Teasdale - Lismore, 2480 - D Company Flo brings us up to date, "Harry has developed arthritis in his right arm, it is giving him a lot of pain. He is going down town at present for therapy, so we are hoping for improvement soon. We miss our friend, Alex Olley, very much. It is so sad that a serious illness should overtake anyone at such a young age. I am learning to cope with the do-it-yourself jobs, the difficult ones wait till Max comes home. Our grand-daughter, Fiona is marvellous. She is on her feet now and looking for mischief - which pot plant to pull to bits, or what is in Mothers cupboards? The family will be home for a while in May. Stan Arneil's "One Man's War" has proved a very interesting book. Our kind regards to all, who read "Makan", from Harry and Flo Teasdale." George Stephenson - Mollymook, 2539 - HQ Company George relates, "I emigrated from England to Australia 58 years ago. I was just 19 yrs of age. I arrived in Sydney in the first week in March 1923. I used to live near Manchester at Heaton Park, 5 miles North of that city towards Bury. I had 3 Weeks in hospital and had a pretty good report from the specialist, whom I saw in Wollongong. Mr local M.O. had thought I might have some kidney and blood trouble, but it seems to be just my usual complaints of blood pressure, some heart and of course the big one, arthritis. I find that I have a wonderful lot of friends here - to the forefront are Arnie and Joan Ainsworth and Bill and Heather Desmet, who visit Ulladulla pretty frequently from Canberra. I am not doing much these days, but am hoping to improve and get back to my bowls, also snooker, from which though not quite up to the class of Ray Reardon, I still get a lot of fun while playing, and of course gardening will have to take some of my time. Well anyhow, Thanks for all the good wishes. My regards to all, Yours Faithfully, George." Clyde Blencowe - Tumbarumba, 2653 – D Company Clyde advises, "To fill you in on the last few years. My boys are both married. The elder boy is a chartered Accountant, a partner in a little show, Michael Boyce & Company in Cooma, where they have just recently constructed a new office block. They also have a branch in Moree. He has two lovely little daughters, two and four respectively. Our younger son is a Postal Clerk and lives in Wanniassa, A.C.T. He has no family at the moment. Millie is well and has given up work at the moment at the shop. I am still working, but I am trying to give it away. Apart from a bit of trouble with my right hip, I am very fortunate. If you look round you can always see someone worse off than you are. When I stop and think of what we went through; the ones we left behind, and those, who have passed on since. I don't think that I have any cause for complaint. I feel someone upstairs must like me. All in all I envy no one and would not change places with anyone. My wife and I are into our 35th year of marriage and still very happy. Kindest regards to all old mates. Clyde." Jack Fell - Cessnock, 2325 - B Company Jack tells us, "I was looking forward to going down to Woy Woy for the day, which Curly and Beatrice Hardman gave, and to which some of the boys journeyed up from Sydney, but unfortunately I have no transport. I had the misfortune to be involved in a car accident, which luckily involved damage to the vehicles. I received a bump on the right arm and suffered for about 3 weeks from bruised ribs, where the seat belt caught me, but apart from that I am O.K. I did manage to get out one day to see Tom Kennedy at East Gresford. Incidentally it was the same day that Doc and Clover Wilson went there. I understand that the only directions Doc got, were to go to Newcastle and turn left. However for the information of anyone, who would like to go and see Tom, and he and Helen would be most pleased to see anyone from the 30th, go to Maitland; turn right over the Hunter River at the end of the main street and follow the road to Paterson and from there on to East Gresford. Go through the village of Gresford and follow the Allynbrook Road for about 3 miles and Tom's place is on the left after crossing a small bridge. The house is called "Gemas" and has Tom's name on the gate. The former President of the Cessnock R.S.L. Sub Branch was in touch with me a few days ago to make arrangements for me to go up to our Bowling Club and have a few beers with a former member of the Battalion, Laurie Drayton. I did this yesterday, (letter written 25th March. Ed.) and we had a good old natter. He was in B Company before we sailed from Australia, and in the Protective Platoon for B Company HQ in Malaya. He was wounded on 14th Jan. 42 in the ambush by a shot wound to the right forearm and left Selarang on 14/5/42 with "A" Force for Burma. He was in Bangkok at the end of the war and was repatriated from there. Laurie is interested in joining the Association. His address for you and any of the Boys, who might want to get in touch with him is, Laurie Drayton, Cessnock. I have not heard from Jack Clunes for a while; last was in January I think. He went back to work after recovering from his broken ankle, but is finding it a bit difficult getting about. Una is still having some successes with her horses at the Agricultural Shows and has plenty of ribbons to prove it. That's about all for now, my kind regards to All. Yours faithfully, Jack Fell." Don MacIver- Blacktown, 2148 - HQ Company Don expresses thanks, "I wish to thank the boys who rang and enquired how Betty was progressing. You wouldn't know how much she appreciated them. Having never met anyone from the Battalion she thought the calls and Battalion card were wonderful gestures. She is an avid reader of "Makan"; and if anything, peruses it more than I do. Betty is now coming along quite well and is due for another check-up in a few weeks (date of letter 25/3/81. Ed.) and when this one is over we intend to go North for a decent break. I am playing bowls still. I'm leading by a couple of points and have last game next Saturday in No. 3 Pennants, so I'm hoping for the best. The club made me Asst. Bowls Secretary and I have wondered what in the Hell has hit me. I thought that it was or would be a fairly easy job. Well I have had a very rude awakening. My health has been pretty good. I have no complaints at the moment. I haven’t written this much for years, but thanking all once again for Betty and myself, all the best to you and yours. Yours sincerely, Don." Athol Hyde Cates – Singapore - A Company Athol notifies change of address, "As you can see by the above address I am once again stationed in the East, this time in Singapore. I am not sure how long we will be here, but anticipate about two years. We have taken this apartment for about 6 months, while we look for something more permanent. Rents here have gone thru the roof during the last 18 months, (Can't help smiling, when I remember that, the last time that I was living here, the accommodation was free! ). We drove past Changi gaol last weekend. Still as grim as ever. How did we ever survive it, Beryl asks? The skyline here is changing almost daily, and the old Singapore will soon be hard to find. I am enclosing a cheque in case my subscription is due, I have no idea how I stand. Beryl joins me in sending warm regards. Sincerely, A.H. Cates." Wilf Evans – Guildford, 2161 – HQ Company Word from Wilf, "I think that it is about time I sent some Subs and am enclosing a cheque. I have been laid up with my back. The war caused spondylitis has affected my left leg. It makes it quite a job to walk about. I have to go and have traction three times a week, but I'm sick of being out of action. Leo Murphy and I had a Saturday afternoon at the Club a few months back with "Paddles" Clune. It was great to see him. I will have to blame him for being laid up; too much of the amber. My regards to all the Boys of the Battalion. I hope that you had a good day on Saturday, Anzac Day. I was thinking of you all. I am enclosing some photos of the Transport - one at Bathurst, a group taken a couple of days after we landed, and two from Batu Pahat. I am, Yours faithfully, Wilf Evans." V.L. Gear (Son of Neville) - Fennell Bay, 2283 – D Company Vee shows his gratitude, "I am enclosing a cheque with this letter far annual subscription on behalf of my mother, Shirley Twyford - wife of Neville Gear, 17 Pl. D Company. It has been quite a few months since the Tamworth Re-Union, which my Mother and I attended, but I would like to thank all Members of the 2/30 Bn for accepting us and making us so welcome. Mum and I had a wonderful weekend amongst my late father's friends. I myself could not hear enough of the stories of those war-time days. At times I found myself trying to listen to two or more stories at once. Many thanks to Jack Black for his help and to all those who knew and told me so much about my father. A very special thanks to Don Schumacher, a close friend of my father and now, after a few visits, a friend of mine. Best wishes from Mum and myself. Yours sincerely, V.L. Gear." Arthur Piper - Orange, 2800 - B Company Arthur sends his regrets, "I have been under the doctor once or twice a month for quite some time now. A Hiatus Hernia has given me quite a tit of trouble; also my hands, shoulder and neck are not the best, the only relief I get is from the Physiotherapy while cold weather is about. We have three grandchildren now, two boys and a girl. Hoping all the fellows are keeping as well as can be expected, I remain, A.T.R. Piper. Enclosed cheque is for Subs and the rest for a donation." (Thanks for the help, Arthur, Ed.) Gordon C. Baker – Wahroonga, 2076 – A Company Gordon is very brief, but he evidences a buoyant disposition, since his cheque provided for Life Membership and the Subscription for "Makan" ‘until the year 1991'. We wish him well. Tommy Williamson – Belmont, 2280 - A Company Stan Arneil reports, "I visited Tommy Williamson ex A Company on the Easter break. He lives at Belmont and spends every day at the Belmont Bowling Club, where he drinks nothing stronger than orange juice. Tommy has been in and out of hospital, but is very cheerful, and is obviously very popular with Club Members. It is a pleasant Club, so that it would make for a nice day for Tom amongst them. If friends pass through to or from Newcastle, it would be a good deed to pop into the Club and see Tom. Regards, Stan. Bert Farr – Turramurra, 2174 – HQ Company Bert reveals., "Health is generally better after a bad year in 1980 with a spinal operation and other problems. Enclosed is cheque for subs and donation. (Thanks, Bert, for help to finances and your congrats are appreciated by the Team. We hope that your health is on the up and up. Ed.) My Regards to all, Bert Farr. Geoff Alcock - Pennant Hills, 2120 - B Company Geoff was prompt with payment of Subs and comments, "I secured a copy of "One Man's War”. What a great book! Unfortunately, I am having eye trouble still and cannot read for long at a stretch, so it will take some time to get through it with all the other reading I am trying to do. My regards to all, sincerely yours, Geoff Alcock," Sylvia Rooke - Rainworth, Qld. 4067 - B Company A report from Ken Parry states, "Since the death of Bill, Sylvia's general health has run down. She was in hospital on two occasions with a slight stroke, which has left her sight impaired. She cannot walk without the aid of a stick and there is not a great deal she can do for herself. Her loss of Bill was drastic for her and she is taking quite a while to accept it and adjust to it. Her doctor is happy to have her in her home at the moment, but should her condition decline further the Veterans Affairs Dept. will make arrangements for her to go to a Departmental aged home. While at her home fortunately she has neighbours opposite, who keep a very good eye on her. Another close friend calls once a week to visit and attend to personal money matters. I go and see her at least once a week and often my wife, Betty, comes along to cheer Sylvia up. She is lucky in that we have made arrangements for the "Meals-on-Wheels" to call daily. The rest of us take some special "Goodies" when we visit. Veterans Affairs Dept. have been great, especially one of their Social Workers (Mrs Josephine Bull). Sylvia has now a Repatriation Widows Pension, since Bills death was an accepted disability. She also has a special compensation (domestic) allowance. Blue nurses call each second day to bath her and so on. The local Repat doctor calls at least once per week to see her. All in all she can manage to live in her home, where she is at present generally more comfortable than elsewhere. Our news is not the best in the world, but under the circumstances it all seems to be satisfactory. Sylvia is very grateful for all the help and assistance which she has received." (Thanks for the news, "Jasper". Were glad to know that the helping hand has been extended to Sylvia as one of the Unit’s widows, that she is cared for and not left alone. Ed). Ken Parry - Chermside West, Brisbane, 4032 - D Company Ken claims, "I am as well as can to expected of any of us. Time does not hang on my hands and I enjoy the climate we have here in Queensland. It is always great to read in "Makan" of the doings of our old Unit friends, although I must confess that I am saddened, when I read of those in hospital and those, who have answered the last roll call. Such is the passage of time, but how untimely have been the deaths of so many of our fiends since the war. 'Cheers for now. Yours Aye, Ken Parry ("Jasper")." Alf (Curly) Blomfield – Caringbah, 2229 – A Company Curly looks ahead, "I hope to make it to the Bathurst Commemoration Service in August, as I plan to carry on to Dubbo about that time. I have a sister in Dubbo, so it will give me the opportunity to look up some of our Dubbo Members. My wife, Olga, wishes to be remembered to all the Members’ wives, whom she met at Tamworth, and we both hope all are as well as can be expected. Regards, Alf (Curly) Blomfield. (Thanks for the subs and donation, Curly, the funds will be dealt with as you ask. Ed.) Blair Taylor – Deakin, A.C.T. 2600 - C Company Blair puts himself ahead with subs and gives word, "We are going to England in July to visit our daughter, whose husband is a Migration Officer at Australia House, London, returning late August. I intend to be at the National Reunion later in the year, and look forward to seeing old friends – particularly those from "Kobe House". Kind regards to All and theirs, Blair Taylor.'' Bob Dickson - New Lambton, 2305 - HQ Company Bob sent in subs today before Anzac Day, his covering letter says, "trying to bring you up to date I spend most of my time in hospital these days. My last trip on 14 April was to receive 11 units of blood and I was out again on the Thursday before Good Friday. Previous to that I had gone in on 5th March, when I received 16 units of blood. My next appointment is due on 14 May so you can see I don't get much of a break, but I managed to keep going, though they are suggesting that I go into a nursing home. Bye for now. Sending all my regards to the Association and Committeeman. Thanking all, Bob Dickson." Tom McFarlane (Howard) – Tamworth, 2340 – A Company Tommy remedies our error and says, "Pleased to receive my "Makan" yesterday. Please find enclosed P.N. to make me a Life Member and the Sub for Makan". I enjoyed our Reunion very much and was pleased to see the boys after so many years; about 35 years since I saw Ian Grace, Joe Veivers and Allan Venn. There were many I remembered but could not put a name to them. Nevertheless it was a great turn-out, and those who were organisers of it, should be congratulated on a job well done, as I am sure many hours of work went into the planning of it. I would have liked to get down to Sydney for the Anzac Day march tomorrow (letter written 24/4/81 Ed.) but the wife and I are going to Melbourne in May to see our daughter and grand-children. Laurie is in the Air Force and has just been posted to Tottenham Base. They live in the suburb of Sunshine and Laurie has to travel about 5 miles to the Base. There is not much happening at the moment to build up the news, although we could use some rain badly. I can only water my Ferns etc by bucket, hoses are banned. Wishing folk all the best. Yours faithfully, Tom McFarlane (Howard) Frank Purvis - Cambewarra, 2577 - B Company Frank advises, "as from 2 May 1981 my address will be as above - for you city slickers, its just north of Nowra on the Moss Vale turn off. So you say, what's the silly old Bugger doing going there at his age? Well - Both the boys - big toys now - are in the Navy Fleet Air Arm and based at H.M.A.S. Albatross. - but what about the girls? - one lives at Goondiwindi (where Gunsynd came from) and the other is at Quakers Hill, and it's very hard to be equidistant from all. We have five grandchildren - 3 girls, 2 boys, in that order. I had a slight stroke, which affected the left eye slightly. Otherwise, apart from some stomach trouble, I'm O.K. Ruth is well, and sends her regards to folk. We'll give you our phone number later. They are changing from manual to automatic shortly. Subs are enclosed for this year and a couple more. I think I'll last the distance, if not I'll demand a refund. We'll be going to Gundi (Local talk) next month and hope to see Jack Fell and Arthur Buckingham on the way back. My regards to all, Frank Purvis. P.S. Can highly recommend this retirement business, the only thing I miss is you don't get any Public Holidays." Russ Perkins - Westmead, 2145 - B Company Russ reports, "Karon and I have just returned from a two weeks holiday at Forresters Beach via Gosford. Have a great Anzac Day. I will be going, as always, to the Dawn Service, perhaps next year I will make it to the March. My regards to Stan Arneil. I endeavoured many times to phone him, soon after the publication of "One Man's War". His cousin Coral Stone is and has been for the past 20 years our best friend. Kind Regards to All, Russ Perkins." Len Roberts - Wyong, 2259 - HQ Company Margaret gives us the news, "Len's Polymyalgia has improved greatly since Christmas, when he was virtually a cripple. On the Thursday before Easter Len and I motored out of Wyong, for the first time since November, going to Tamworth for the Easter weekend. Len became ill and passed out on two different days. Then he thought that he was well enough to drive across to Taree to his sister, but the trip took us 6 hours. Len took ill again on the Thursday morning and, within two hours of seeing a doctor, he was placed in the Intensive Care Ward at Manning River District Hospital. He was given 2½ bottles of blood, as he was bleeding internally. After tests last night (Letter was written Anzac Day. Ed.) we were told that the trouble is a large duodenal ulcer. The doctors are seeking to find the cause of his present condition even to questioning the use of the tablets he had been having to take. We were shocked to learn of Reg Etherington's death. I have been to see Kath. She looks reasonably well and has her family all close by. Len was upset for quite a time by Reg's passing. We have booked a flight to South Africa on 4th July to visit our son, Vawn, and his wife, Lynn, 3½ years old Heidi and a new grandson, Mark, who will be one year old on 20th June. We plan to be away for 90 days, during which time we spend 8 days in Perth with Susanne and Richard and grandchildren, Tracey 3½ and Neil one year old on 27th July. We arrive back in Perth on 19th September. But, of course, all this will depend on Len's health now. I am staying in Taree with Len's sister, Enid, and her husband, Keith Tyson, while Len is in hospital. I don't know what I would have done without them. "Our regards to all for now, Yours sincerely, Margaret Roberts." “Cappy” Bligh – Vaucluse, 2030 – HQ Company Ruth writes, "Many thanks for sending your magazine to us. Cappy has very little sight. He gets the “Talking Books" from the Blind Society and I read to him. He is always delighted to hear news of the Army Boys. With grateful thanks a cheque is enclosed for Cappy's Subs. Ruth Bligh." Sid Stephens – East Maitland, 2323 - HQ Company Sid tells us, "Joan and I are both well and, fortunately are enjoying good health. We are planning a few trips this year, so pray that our health will continue. We are hoping to go to South America in October, so we will need to be fit. We spent Easter on the Gold Coast and saw Keith and Thora Jones, who live at Burleigh Heads. They seem very happy and are looking well. I see Fred Hume and Punter Wallis here frequently; both look well, although Fred has his ups and downs with his heart. Our regards to all. Sid Stephens." George Hilton Brown - Wagga Wagga, 2650 - A Company George gives his news, "First off I wish to thank whoever may have been responsible for giving you my new address, which resulted in the copies of "Makan" arriving again after so many years. It is very interesting to me to read of the doings of the various members of the Battalion, especially those, with whom I was closely associated at various times. Two names, which have appeared in lists in "Makan" were of particular interest. One is Bruce Upcroft, whom I mentally recall as a skinny scarecrow hobbling back to lines from the Cholera Hospital in Shimo Sonkurai Camp. The ether is Ted Lawty, whose name I noticed on the list for the Tamworth Reunion. As a young soldier Ted was one, in whom I had a particular interest, and I lost track of him after returning to Changi from Thailand. Up to the time of the Reunion List I had been unable to find anyone, who had seen Ted Lawty and I had long given him up for dead. I had every intention of going to Tamworth, but then decided it wiser not to undertake the long drive, as I had just a week or so before come home from hospital, having been hospitalized with a very stubborn urinary tract infection. However I intend to go down to Sydney for the big Re-union in October. Over the years I guess I must admit that fate has been kind to me. I am fairly fit, in good health apart from the ever present anxiety neurosis, duodenitis and esophagitis. I consider myself lucky at that. I’ve had my share of personal tragedy since 1945, having lost a 6 year old son, and later a new born son. I went on to a W.S.L.S. block near Harden in 1947, and my son was accidentally killed while there after 10 years on the block. After that my wife's health packed up and we sold out, moving to Cootamundra and later Wagga in 1958, and have been here since then. I took on various jobs after leaving the farm, but I could not face the rural life again, although it is deep grained in my psyche. I managed a branch office in Wagga for 14 years for a removalist group, and retired from that in 1976, pretty sick from, as I subsequently found out, the duodenitis and esophagitis, which apparently I had been carrying for the previous two or three years or so, but my doctor had not got on to it. Anyhow, my wife had already been conducting a ladies' hairdressing salon in Wagga since 1959, so we formed a partnership, bought another one and that is our livelihood. She does the operations management and I do the financial management, etc. I do not know of any other 2/30 people in Wagga, except Curly Heckendorf, however he is not a true Wagga-ite, living some miles out of town. There are a few 2/19th, 2/15th blokes here, but usually one only sees them once a year at the Ex-P.O.W. Ceremony on 15 Feb. (There is Shirley Lugton, wife of Stan Lugton of the Band, George. Ed.) Anyway, as I said earlier, I am pleased to receive the "Makan" and its news, and I will be looking forward to seeing some of the old team in October. Cheque for Subs is enclosed. My kind regards to all, George Brown.” Harry & Flo Teasdale - Lismore, 2480 - D Company Flo advises, “We just received the "Makan", so I am enclosing some money for subs. (Thanks Flo. Ed.) Harry is about the same. He enjoyed watching the Anzac March on T.V. from Sydney. It was really a beautiful day everywhere. We hope you all enjoyed your Get-together. Kind Regards to all. From Harry & Flo." W.L.G. Jordon – Alexandria, 2015 - Bn. HQ Wal’s letter enclosed cheque to put him in front and the rest as a donation, (thanks, Wa1, it's most welcome. Ed.) and went on, "Not much news to report except that the wife and I are still in fair health. Wishing all Members and Families of the 2/30 Bn. the best, Yours truly, W. Jordan." Garry Evans - Strathfield, 2135 - A Company Garry informs us, "My wife, Marie, is in good health; Lesley, my daughter and her two children are well and her husband, John who works at "TOOTHS”, is fine and in about one month they are moving to a new home, which they have purchased here in Strathfield. Yours truly is not the best, as my eyes have gone on me, even though the eye specialist tells me that they are O.K. As you know I am a diabetic and that flares up on me from time to time, and, of course, that is playing up with my golf, and, when it plays up with my golf, THAT IS BAD NEWS. (Garry did not put that last sentence in capitals, but your scribe felt that it should be put that way, because we all know how Garry loves his golf.) Strathfield Golf Club Members are celebrating the Golden Jubilee of the Club this year and I am on that Committee. That is all that is left of my administrative activities for the Club. I had a couple of days at Bathurst last month and had a good look around. It brought back a lot of fond memories of 1941, when we were in camp there. The chap, whom I went to see, looked after "Stinney" Reinhard and me when we were on night leave or on weekend leave. We always stayed with him and his wife and they really looked after us. I had a look around the camp site. The number of houses, which they have built on the road out and beyond is unbelievable. As a matter of fact the particular houses, which are further on past the main gate are 5 acre lots, but folk are buying them and building on them. Wishing all the boys the best of luck and health. My regards, Garry." Charlie Brouff - Eden, 2551 - Bn HQ Charlie has forwarded his cheque Tor some subs in advance, and advises, "Christmas will see me on the retired list. I don't hear much news of Band Boys. Does anyone ever hear of Jack Elphick? (Jack lives at Vaucluse. Jack's brother once told your scribe that he and Lindsay Boys used to pick him up and take him to the Football on Saturdays, but it is a while since we have heard from him. Ed.) I still manage to do the bugling for the Services here on Anzac Day and have missed out only twice since 1946. My thanks to all who are involved in the production of "Makan", my cheque enclosed, is to see that I still get it in the future. My kind regards to folk, Sincerely, Chas Brouff." Arthur Carroll - Windale, N.S.W. 2306 - 7 Platoon, A Company Arthur had a session in Concord recently and was found by Joe Geoghegan on his visiting for his R.S.L. Club. We have had a letter from Arthur, "Sorry for being so slow in joining the Association, but better late than never. (and we are jolly glad to extend the welcoming hand, Arthur. We'll keep in touch. Ed.) I had your address given to me by a chap, who saw me in Concord Hospital, Ward 310, I can't remember his name, but I mislaid the paper on which he had written it down and it's only now that I have found it or this would have been in sooner. I was in 7 Platoon, A Company, NX4700. All the Best Wishes to all of you. Yours sincerely, Arthur Carroll." Des Gee - Moonee Ponds, Vic. 3039 - HQ Company Des has news that's a little better than last time, "My wife has improved somewhat with her arthritis, (We hope that you will be able to keep on improving, Shirley. Ed.) and has embarked on a course of new tablets, ascorbic acid, chiropractor and exercises and high hopes. It keeps me fit too, although I don't have any real worries. My main problem is trying to win at golf off a handicap of 12. I like to keep ahead with my subs, so I am enclosing a small cheque to stay that way, hoping that it will help to settle accounts. I was glad to see that Tamworth was such a success and it was pleasing to see the photos of some of the chaps, still looking well and happy. It would have been nice to have been there but it was not to be. See you all one day. Yours, Des Gee." Ashley Pankhurst - Armidale, 2350 - C Company Ashley writes, "I would have liked to go to Tamworth but health kept me away. It was good to see the photos of some of the chaps there, in particular my old mate, Kenny Forward. We bought the house here after the Blue and we have done it up quite nicely, so now we are leading a quiet life. We had a good march here in Armidale on Anzac Day and they got me to lead the fellows, who had been in Malaya. I might be going down to the City shortly and if I do I'll be in touch. Wishing all the Thirtieth Gang all the Best, I'll close now, W.A. Pankhurst." Kel Anderson - Dubbo, 2830 - C Company Kel says, "I enjoy reading the "Makan" and feel that I am getting to remember everyone again. Did you know that Ray Green is in Concord. He lives here in Dubbo. (Thanks Kel. I phoned Kevin Ward on receipt of your letter and we have had some chaps to see him. He has had quite a big operation. Ed.) We had Chum Farley over for a few days and really enjoyed having his company. Others to visit us were Stan Grainger, Colleen and their son, Stephen. Pearl said that she missed them when they went home, the place was lonely, so we hope that they all come again soon. We have had our two daughters very sick in hospital, but thank Heaven, they are home again and getting better every day. (Sorry to hear of these troubles, and we share your hopes in them getting better. Ed.) All the Best to all the Boys, Kind Regards, Kel." Doug McLaggan - East Lindfield, 2912 - HQ Doug was prompt with Subs and a very brief note, "All’s well - Too much work and no play. My regards to all. Douglas." Col Tuckfield – Kenmore, Q’ld 4069 – D Company Col has seen the light, "Time marching on, as it does, I have taken the momentous decision to retire following my 60th birthday and will do so on 3rd July, (New tax year!). Fortunately, unlike some of our number, I enjoy reasonable health and love my golf, even if that love is NOT reciprocated I want to use what's left of life for living, rather then serving an ungrateful public. Hopefully, I’ll be able to make it to some of the Northern Rivers Reunions. It has been difficult for me whilst I have been working. My regards to the Boys. Sincerely, Col Tuckfield," Brian & Anne Hayes – Parkes, 2870 – D Company Anne reports, "Brian and I have just returned from our annual holiday in the Ex-P.O.W. Cottage at Yamba. There was no hassle with Brian being ill this trip and we had a marvellous time. As we have both commenced playing bowls again, we had a few games - mixed – mens and ladies. Besides that we joined in Bingo - Housie and what have you. We even won a few trophies. We visited old friends and shopped. Drove to Knockrow and stayed overnight with Joe and Sybil Johnston - usual wonderful hospitality. They drove us out to see Mary Olley, and another day we drove to Alstonville and visited Stan and Marj Moss. Marj is "Blue” Vidler's sister. We hope to be able to come to Ballina Reunion this year. On our way home we stayed overnight with Ben and Millie Pearce. Both are well. Then we spent Easter Sunday and Monday with Brian's Sister, Nell, and her husband, George Freestone in Dorrigo. On the Monday went to see "Kingie" Martin. He seems to lead a very busy life and looks well. We were home in time to get sorted out and get off to Peak Hill for Anzac Day. I belong to the R.S.L. Women's Auxillary up there and we women have a busy but lovely day. Hoping to see you at Ballina 1981. Sincerely, Brian and Anne Hayes." Jim McIntosh - Ainslie, A.C.T., 2602 - A Company Jim, in sending Subs, commented, "I had a great day on the 25th April in Sydney. I met three Members of 7 Platoon. I had not seen them for 40 years. My regards to all, Jim McIntosh." Harry & Shirley Jarrett - Loftus, 2232 - B Company Shirley in sending up subs included a donation (Thanks it will be very handy. Ed.) said, "Harry studied the photograph on page 22 of "One Man's War” and decided that the unidentified soldier was not Jack Collins. He has known Jack for many years, they worked together in South Grafton and still keep in touch. Perhaps someone will be able to help you in the identification. Although I know very few people from the 2/30th, I do get much enjoyment reading the magazine and find the special articles most interesting. Yours sincerely, Shirley Jarrett for Harry.” “Ack Ack" Johnson - Harrington, 2427 - HQ Company Allan writes, "I am enclosing a cheque for subs, the bit over may go to expenses, (Thanks, Allan, a good help. Ed.) Ron Charlton resides here in Harrington. I was interested to hear of Arthur Purdon in a recent "Makan". Arthur is married to a first cousin of mine. I hope Les Hall and the Boys are all well. My Regards to All, Allan A. Johnson". Jack Greenwood - Little Bay, 2036 - HQ Company Jack is another good donor, and we thank him also, "I was disappointed on missing Anzac Day this year, but only arrived back from a holiday in Tahiti at 1 pm on Saturday and the March was over. You possibly heard from "Skinny" Stone or "Splinter" Walshe, that I remarried after all these years and now Gabriel can keep me in a manner to which I am accustomed. Both Stoney and Walshy came to the wedding, just to make sure that we got off on the right foot. (“Possibly heard"? There was no doubt about it. I certainly was told, and you may let Gabriel know that they did so in very approving terms. But does she know your predilection for fishing excursions? Ed.) I always look forward to "Makan" and read it with great interest. May the Team keep up the good work. My best wishes to them. My regards to all. Jack Greenwood." Ron Stoner - Attadale, W. Aust., 6156 - B Company Ron reports, "I marched with the 2/4 M.G. Bn Fellows again this year. It was a perfect day and around 6,000 participated in the March. I am enclosing a few cuttings from our local newspapers I feel will be of interest. In the first a War Widow in Perth is being backed by legacy in a High Court case contesting delay in payment of War Widows' pensions because the Commission wants to wait on a decision of its appeal against a Federal Court decision in favour of another War Widow, Mrs. Law, whose husband commenced smoking during the War and later died of lung cancer. It is said that 278 claims worth a total of $49,139,174 depended on the ruling in that appeal; that another 30 claims worth an estimated $8,618,619 depend on another Court decision; that altogether 512 War Widows' pension claims worth an estimated total $76,875,719 have been deferred pending appeals. In the second cutting the story is of the fight of a Pilot, whose left eye had to be removed because of a malignant melanoma, which, it was felt by doctors, related to the brain tumour, which killed him 4 years after the removal of the melanoma, but he had been rebuffed by the Repat., and when his wife, worried by his brooding over the rebuffs, wanted him to "tell them to go to Hell, he would say to her, "I'm only doing it for you". The article went on to say that Perth Legacy wanted the widow to apply for the War Widows' Pension despite her hesitancy against doing it, because she did not want to suffer the same humiliations as her husband had undergone for her sake. Legacy's men are concerned that applicants are not being given the benefit of the doubt, and that is against the legislative intent of every Australian Government since 1918. An interesting follow up to that second article gives the personal view of the chairman of Perth Legacy's Pension Panel that, "The Federal Government could save millions of dollars by severely pruning (the bureaucracy) of the Dept. of Veterans' Affairs and automatically granting pensions to war widows and disabled veterans. He says that the staff of the Dept. could be cut by thousands", the amount of time and the paperwork in administrative work on claims and appeals would be cut down enormously. Ron continues, "I am conscious that the Dept. of Vet. Affairs means well. But it's very inefficient. It gives us services geared more and more for the people, who run them, and less and less for the people who use them. The article from the Sunday Times, "It's time to prune the bureaucracy and find more for pensions" is pertinent as far as W.A. is concerned. Thankfully Legacy here has Ian Davies and I'm sure that he will do his very best in an effort to obtain a Repat. Pension for Carmel Jones. Our son-in-law, Owen Nichols, was admitted to the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy at the W.A. University Graduation Ceremonies this month. He is an Environmental Scientist with Alcoa, is dedicated to his job and is making good progress with his company. Both Dot and I are keeping fit and have the pleasure of quite a number of visitors from N.S.W. throughout the year. The Mar/Apr "Makan" was most welcome and newsy, but I was saddened by the more than usual number of obituaries recorded. All the Best to folk, Yours ever, Ron." Bill Melville - Hunters Hill Word has come from the Dept. of Vet. Affairs that Bill Melville has been moved from the Belmore T.P.I. Units to become an in patient at the Lyndhurst Nursing Home. Now he's, at Dubbo with his son. Bill's stroke has left him without power of speech, but his hearing is still satisfactory, so that any visitors can talk to him, but apart from a nod of the head by Bill, it is a one sided affair, and yet all the more to be appreciated by him. Les & Althea Southwell - Bateman's Bay, 2536 – A Company Althea's letter is, "Les sends his best wishes to all his mates. He enjoys reading "Makan" and all the news in it. He is keeping well. He is now President of Bateman's Bay Bowling Club, and that takes up a lot of his time. We still take some time off to travel. We returned a few months ago from the U.S.A., and Mexico, which we found fascinating, and our old favourite, Honolulu. Best wishes to all. Les and Althea Southwell." “Red" & Joan Hanlon - Queanbeyan, 2620 - B Company "Red" is another new Life Member and sent a little more cash saying, "any left you will know what to do with it. (and it is once again a big "Thanks". Yes Red it will be handy. Ed.) His letter goes on, "I recognised quite a few of the boys in the photos in the recent "Makan" from Tamworth. We hope to be at the next get-together. Best wishes to all, Red and Joan Hanlon." Frank Silver - Coalcliff, 2515 – C Company Frank has put himself ahead, but says, "I am a little forgetful these days, and my eyesight is gradually fading. Otherwise my general health is not too bad. My regards to folk. Yours sincerely, Frank Silver." Bill Dainton - Middle Cove, 2068 - D Company "Jacko" has let us know that the above is Bill Dainton Jnr. Bill's son, and that the address is that of "BAR-TREE RANCH" where you may purchase Besco Batteries, and he has indicated that he would be pleased to do the right thing business wise with any of the boys. See you have your badge on when you call on him. John A. Greenway - Chatswood, 2067 - C Company John shifted from his old address and forgot to let us know. His "Makan" 258 came back through the post, marked "He's not here, Return or send it somewhere else." On Anzac Day in talking to "Jacko" Jackson, "Jacko" offered to try to find where he was now, because Jacko knew that he was with the Chatswood Council still, and so we have him listed once more. There's no doubt about it, Jacko gets his man, and John will get his "Makan" that is the ones we've been keeping for him each time. So he'll have a bit of reading to catch up. Tom Grant - Murwillumbah - C Company Tom has put himself in front with Subs and also checks up, "No doubt you heard about the passing of Teen, Sister of Freda Knox (Andy's wife). Kevin Ward rang with the news early one morning, but I had gone to work and could not be contacted. She died from a heart condition and would have been 86 this coming June. I went down and saw Freda, who is being cared for by her nephew, Don Tingcombe and his wife, Ess. Hope all is well with the lads down there as it is with all up here. Tom Grant." Ernie Stratford - Mullumbimby, 2482 - D Company We're sorry to hear Ernie's family news. He tells us, "My brother was killed. A grader, that he was driving, turned over on him, so I have not had a happy time lately. Health wise we are O.K. up here and hope that all of you down there are the same. Ossie Jackson was Guest Speaker at Mullumbimby Anzac Service this year and did a very good job too. I am enclosing cheque for 4 years subs and the remainder to use as you wish. (Our thanks go to you too, Ernie. Ed.) My Regards to all the boys, Yours faithfully, Ernie." "Bluey Neil" (Jack Peterson) - Fairy Meadow, 2519 – C Company Jack's wife fills us in with some details about him. "I read the "Makan" regularly. I enjoy getting it. I was surprised to read the article about my late husband, and for anyone, who may be interested I will add a few details. Jack was only 15 when he first joined up under an assumed name, and was 44 years of age when he died. Besides our daughter, whom you mentioned, we also have a son. An addition to Jack's problems, he developed severe back trouble, which was accepted as due to Jap bashing on the Railway, but only after much consulting amongst the Tribunal etc., and finally due to constant pain he underwent a spinal fusion in Concord. He was there for 4 months and was discharged as T.P.I. and of course unable to work. The emotional strain of being inactive, the pain and nervous tension was not easy to bear. We mostly attended Anzac Day in Sydney and later in Wollongong. Alan Pope was most helpful to me at that time. I haven't seen Wally Scott for years, but then he was not too well the last time that I saw him. Thanking you, June Peterson." Edgar N. Dengate - Sawtell, 2452 - C Company Edgar puts his Subs in advance and adds, "Congratulations to all responsible for getting out the "Makan", you all have my sincere sympathy and thanks. I was sorry to hear of "Gentleman George's" passing. John Parsons' death was a terrible blow to me, as I was his Sergeant in Tamworth and Bathurst. I was unable to attend Tamworth Reunion due to a spot of heart trouble, but my thoughts were with you all. I'm still part-time teaching at Coffs Harbour Tech. College in the Building Section. Otherwise I give the fish a hell of a bashing in my spare time. Yours sincerely, Edgar N. Dengate." F.J. (Jack) Graham - South Grafton, 2461 - C Company Jack knows that this little old world will keep on going round and round; in writing, "Please find cheque for Subs up until and including 1985. This is as I understand my position from your "Makan" Circular Mar/Apr. If I'm not correct would you please advise. (If "Makan" Fee were to stay at $1.50 per year you would have put yourself ahead, Jack. But with inflation still soaring we will have to go up, I'm sorry to say, and by how much, we will not know, till about the year end, when we can take out a budget again. Ed.) Wishing the "Makan" Team, Executive and other Members of the Association all the very best. Yours faithfully, F.J. (Jack) Graham." Carmel Jones, Wife of G. Frank Mck. - Armadale, W.A. 6112 - C Coy Ron Stoner has been on the job and reports, "I had a phone call from Carmel Jones this evening (11/5/81) to say that the Department of Veterans' Affairs has awarded her a pension. Apparently they conceded that they could not disprove that Frank's cancer was due to War Service. Legacy fought the matter for her. They have a very active Pension Committee and have notched up a lot of successful claims against the Dept. recently. Carmel also told me that she sold the house at Mandurah to her son and has bought a Unit for herself at Armadale. Her new address as from 15/5/81 will be as above." Ron then proceeds with his own news:- "I am being re-inducted into Legacy tomorrow. I used to be a Legatee in successively Parramatta, Grafton and Armidale Clubs over 20 years ago. I'm still proceeding along the way, a little bit more steadily now, and will reach the 75th milestone in a little over three weeks. I haven't had a holiday for a long time, but am off to Rottnest Island for a week's fishing later on this month. The herring are running just now and they provide very good sport. Warmest regards to the Bn. and their families, Ron." Des Duffy - Brighton-Le-Sands, 2216 - B Company Another one proceeding along the way, Des had his 71st Birthday at the end of April. Ivy has written, "I went to Melbourne for a week to visit my son. I came back by plane and was glad to get home, as it was freezing in Melbourne. Des told me that he had a couple of the lads from the 2/30th on Anzac Day, and he was pleased to have their company. I received the last "Makan" and read Des the news. All the Best for now, Ivy Duffy." (Your scribe has to make some explanation of Ivy's remark about reading the "Makan" news to Des. He keeps tab on getting his "Makan" and thought because of the gap between "Makan" that he had missed out, and so Ivy had to ring up and find out what the situation might be. Luckily I was able to tell her to reassure him, that one would be on its way to him before Anzac Day. Ed.) Horrie & Zelma Cody - Bomaderry, 2541 - A Company Zelma says, "Horrie is keeping fairly well at present. We are hoping to be at Ballina again this year. Please find cheque enclosed for Subs and I'll close with Warm Regards to All, from Horrie & Zelma Cody. (You're going to have near neighbours now, as you will have seen that Frank Purvis is moving to Cambewarra. No doubt he'll be glad of a little local knowledge from time to time. A.D.) "Joe" Johnston - Knockrow, 2179 - D Company Joe's news is, "All is well up here. It has been cloudy and windy and we have had a bit of rain for the last 3 or 4 days. Last December we attended Marty Wallwork's daughter, Joan's wedding. It was held at Mullumbimby. It went off quite well. A lovely wedding, as the girls would say. Marty had his 4 sisters and his 3 brothers, also their dear old Mum, who turned 93 on 23rd February last. She was in a wheel chair, still healthy and trying to keep a close aye on her 4 sons. We went down south for 7 days and saw Bob and Betty Wells Jack and Phil Carey and Luke and Noeline Carey. While we were at Jack & Phil's, I, Jack and Luke went round and looked up Chum Farley's mate, Alex McWilliams. He and his wife are hoping to make it to Ballina Reunion on 15/8/81. We went on next to Ray and Mavis Godbolt and then on to home, but we did drop in on Alf Carroll. He and his sister, Gwyn are both well. Our time was limited so we didn't see a great many folk. Before I close off, I just remembered that Les Bond came down to Jack Carey's place, while we were there. It was good to see him again after so long. We used to see a good deal of Les, when he was with the Repat. Housing. (That's a special bit of news for the Kobe House Boys.) Well, we'll see you in October at National Reunion. Regards to All, Joe and Sybil." Vernon Baynes - Edgecliff, 2027 - D Company Vernon relates, "We were away in South Africa in February. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit there. It is a beautiful country, but, of course, not without its problems -Blacks v Whites and to a certain extent Afrikaners versus the English. However, if the whites gave in to the black demands there would be bloodshed from the top of the country to the bottom between the 8 Major Black Tribes, who have been enemies since the year dot. The Qantas strike was on during our absence, but we managed to catch the last South African Airways flight out of Johannesburg before the Perth Airport closed down. Sincere Best Wishes to folk. Vernon Baynes." (Thanks for the cheque, Vernon, it will be put to good use. Ed.) Jim Speers - Byron Bay, 2481 - D Company Jim's glad to say, "Saw a few of the boys on Anzac Day in Sydney. Bruce Ford - No change, but a little thin on top. Also had a few words with Arthur Isaacs. I would have liked very much to have seen Norm King, but I missed out, I did see Harley Forrester, who came on a visit to Arthur, when he and I were both in Concord. Talking about Concord, I reckon I couldn't have got better treatment anywhere. All the staff from the Sister-in-charge to the cleaners and tea ladies were all tops. Cheerio to one and all. May your days be long and sunny, Jim Speers." Jim McGoldrick - Muswellbrook, 2333 – D Company Jim's note, "Just to let you know that I have changed my address. I must say that I'm glad I made it to Tamworth for the Reunion and was very pleased to see some of the chaps, whom I have not seen for years. Although I live at Muswellbrook, I spend most of my time at Glennies Creek Dam, where I am working after being transferred from Chaffey Dam at Tamworth. Yours sincerely, Jim McGoldrick." E.W. (Punter) Wallis - East Maitland, 2323 - C Company Punter is another well into the seventies, but he says, "I'm thankful to say, up to date, I am keeping in fairly good health and really don't feel age creeping on. Since last writing Rene and I have been for a trip up north, finishing up at Stuarts Point (N.Q.) again, before returning home. The fishing was great; even better than when we were there before. Our friends were down with us recently and wanted us to go back with them, but I had a few odd jobs I wanted to get finished, such as getting a few lawn mowers into working order for a couple of my friends. And it is beginning to feel like winter now, so I think that I will leave it till the warm weather is with us again. We went over to see Fred Hume on Saturday, but he was away at a football match with his son. He had another spell in Hospital just recently, but is feeling much better now. It is still very dry here. Rain is badly needed in some parts of the Valley. Best of Luck to all the Old Boys, Sincerely Yours, E.W. Wallis (Punter) (Thanks for your help, Punter. Ed.) Alf Lamacraft - Chatswood, 2067 - C Company Alf's little trip in to Concord was to get a plastic hip arrangement fitted. Another one of the over 70s, 73 in fact, he does not want to be tied down yet. Reg Burbury - A Company and "A" Force One of Reg's old workmates, known to your scribe, because his son was one of my Patrol Leaders in the Denistone Troop, said to me, "Reg was a unique man. I never ever heard him say a bad word against anyone. He was well loved at Leigh Mardon's and, after he retired, the chaps would go and pick him up to bring him along to the Christmas Party each year." Alex (Dadda) Olley - Larnock Via Lismore, 2480 - D Company & J Force A little news of Dadda's family is that Lionel, his son, is up at Lismore as well as one of his daughters, whilst the other daughter is down here in Sydney, and both girls are nurses, Sammy Hall - Neutral Bay, 2089 - A Company Stan Arneil casting around for photos of the chaps in his book, "One Man's War", we found out that Sammy still has an enlargement of a photo of the A Company N.C.O.'s taken at Batu Pahat, and enlarged for Sammy by Alan Hamilton's Father. Len Clavan – Tintenbar, 2479 H.Q. Company Len and Wyn had been down in Canberra for the arrival of their first grandchild per favour of Carl and John. A baby boy, weight 8 lb 4 oz. At the same time they had become more involved in the Racehorse Syndicates. It was a good way for them to obtain some interest for their retirements. Although we learnt later that Wyn’s Mother needs some care now. They had stopped at Sydney for the night, on their way up North again, with Len's brother, who lives at Stanmore and works at that centre for the amber fluid, Tooheys. Len had forgotten to put his Bn Address List in the glove box before leaving home, so your scribe was able to let him have some of the addresses, for he thought he might be able to spare the time to look folk up, regretting that his time was limited. Edith Berman - West Ryde, 2114 - D Company Edith has had another trip to Concord for the skin specialist to complete, so she hopes, the job on stitching around her eye, so that it will be firm around the muscle and hold it better. She also has some worry with her brother, Aaron, who had to go to a heart specialist. He's another into his 70s and still going strong, but has to be watched just the same. (Good Luck to both of you, Edith and Aaron. Ed.) Ian Pryce – Wahroonga, 2076 - D Company Your scribe is really put in the shade by the output of some Editors. Ron Maston reports that Ian is Editor of the Legacy Magazine, and has been such for quite some time. It is published fortnightly and has a circulation of 1400. Ron C.W. Foster - Hornsby Heights, 2075 - B Company One of our reporters says that Ron, will be retiring on 3rd July next and his first project is a trip overseas for five weeks, the departure date being set to be in August. Bob Morrison - St. Ives, 2075 - D Company Bob remarked on what a great achievement the Tamworth Reunion seemed to him. It was really worthwhile to meet so many with whom he had not had contact for such a long time. He also said the Stan Arneil's "One Man's War" of P.O.W. days was not only a record of Stan's experiences but covered the Camps, where Bob had been over the same time, since Bob had been in charge of the 2/30 Bn. contingent of chaps, who went into the "Great World Camp", to Selarang Barracks at the same times and up on "F" Force at the same time. At the same time he commented that sometimes an officer could be in the same camp but not experience the same incidents, nor even hear, in some instances, what might be happening with the men. He instanced the tale of the killing of the pig by Mick Broad and his cobbers, and confessed that he thought it was vaguely something about which he had been told but thought that the full detail as had been printed had not become known to him there, at Bathurst. Bob had had an Angina attack, which led to him being whipped into hospital earlier in the year, hut his phone call a few days before Anzac Day was to offer his apologies to anyone who might think of looking for him on Anzac Day, for his absence, but his circumstances were that he could not take too many steps in any direction and he could not even do anything much, he was not in any fit state at all. He was waiting for word to go into Royal North Shore Hospital for heart by-pass operation. The operation went off on the 17th May, I think, and good progress was being made, when it wasn't "panic buttons", but Bob had to be hooked up to the monitors again and he settled down again with the hope that he was to be discharged on 20th May. We know that he had the thoughts of quite a lot of the Don Company boys wishing him well. Alan Hudson - Tottenham, 2873 - D Company A phone call from Alan on the Tuesday before Anzac Day. Tottenham is almost dead centre in New South Wales and the drought had been so bad in the District, that, instead of the Ladies Auxiliary of the R.S.L. having the pick of bunches from all the properties round about, there was not a flower to be had up there. His thoughts went back to Tamworth and the wreaths on the Memorial there, and the comments by many as to how well made they had been. So a phone call to Sydney, would it be possible to get some wreaths sent up, and, as they no longer had a daily rail service to their town, could they be sent up by Mail? No doubt they would have preferred to have had flowers, if possible, but Kevin was able to arrange for 3 of the R.S.L. Memorial wreaths to be sent up for them. Alan is still a Vice President of the Sub-Branch there, but they only have 18 eligible Men in the District and in the Sub-Branch, so they move round in the different jobs, with new ideas and new blood in the positions from time to time. Wilf Evans - Guildford, 2161 – H.Q. Company Wilf was another not able to get to the City to march on Anzac Day, because his arthritis is so had that he can't walk, except with difficulty. However he was able to drive his car, so he could get to the therapist for treatment, which gave him relief at the time, but it looked like a long hard road for him. Wilf asked your scribe to pass on his regards to any of the Transport Men, and Vince Leonard reported later that he would be going to visit Wilf, and we heard that he had a visit from one of the Auxiliary. Len Roberts - Wyong, 2259 – HQ Company We learnt that Len was in Hospital at Taree. A call went out to "Paddles" Clune, could he get some of the boys, especially those of the Transport, around Taree, to look in on him at the Hospital? "No trouble, says, "Paddles", "and I'll have his name mentioned, with a Cheerio Call to him on the "Diggers Session" on the air. Bill and Flo Sorenson - Kyogle, 2474 - D Company One of our reporters says that Flo is the sitting President of the Kyogle R.S.L. Ladies Auxiliary and that she will be down to Congress as their Rep. this May. 1981 National Ex-P.O.W. Reunion - Sydney - 14/18 October 1981 The enrolment form for this Reunion has the warning on the bottom, "Enrolments close Tuesday, June 30, 1981”. Meeting of Executive Held in the President's Office on Tuesday 21st April 1981 at 5.45 p.m. - Items for Information of Members Makan Covers A fresh supply is required. A five years supply would cost $1,412. The Secretary is to write to Mrs. Lamble thanking her for the generous provisions in past years and suggesting that the Association should no longer look to her for the cost of covers in the future. Makan 261 Won't have a copy of John Korsch's Diary, it's separate. We have assistance of Keith D. Murray, Cpl. 2/6 Field Company, 7 Div. Royal Aust. Engineers donating 264 copies to members of the Battalion as a Memorial to John. Members wishing to thank him for his gift may do so by writing to him at P.O. Box 355, Grafton NSW, 2460. 3rd Edition of Battalion History Requests are still at 48, some have lodged their money. 6 more requests came on Anzac Day. A.D.) Plaques Noel Johnston told me before he went to A.G.H. Concord that Amors had given a quote of $45 each if ten were ordered, $35 each if 25 were ordered. Orders so far number 17 in total but 6 want them at the lower figure of $35, although one of the six will stay in at $45. The prices are being quoted in the next Makan. (see page 5). Matters from Correspondence There has been a suggestion that "J" Force, or rather ""Kobe House" ("J" and part of "C" Foy) might have a RE-UNION in conjunction with the POW National Re-Union 14/18 October. An enquiry has been made whether the Bn. Association Annual Re-Union might be advanced from November to the 13/18 Oct. period. Re-Union for 16th October 1981 Jack Black's provisional booking with Combined Services Club for Friday 16th October is confirmed. He should aim at a Smorgasbord which would allow a maximum of 120 persons at $8.00 per person. (see page 3) Ties There were 2 enquirers on last Anzac Day about fresh supplies of ties and those two paid $10 each towards cost of getting some if possible. Others have enquired also. A.D. called at the office of the Australian Tie Co. Pty. Ltd., 149 Castlereagh Street, City, which is shown in the yellow pages of the phone book as agents for Austico Ties, our present type, and enquired prices. Cost would be about 6 to $6.50 (though more likely nearer $6.50) They need an order of 100 at any one time, and would take 10 weeks from lodgement of order (all being well) for delivery. If part order were for blue background as at present and part in another colour suited to lighter and brown suits etc. there would have to be an order of 100 each colour. (Bert Farr is seeking other quotes and Prices have gone higher. Last Post (Stop Press) NX 47506 - Cpl. Oswald James Coon, 17 Platoon D Company, known to all as "Ossie" was born 24/9/1915 and died in Hospital 2/6/1981 at the age of 65 years. Ossie and Mavis married in 1948 and they had two sons, John and Russell, born respectively in 1952 and 1956. Ossie was admitted to Bangalow Hospital following chest pains, however, following all necessary tests, no signs were evident of heart condition, so arrangements were made for his discharge from hospital on the Tuesday evening. Mavis was to take him home. They met in the corridor, spoke a few words to each other, went to make final arrangements individually, but that was the last Mavis saw of Ossie alive. He collapsed and died immediately. I am sure that, when news flashed around Bungalow and District the whole area would have stood still and found it so unbelievable. I am sure that the whole Battalion will be just as saddened as we all up this way were. Ossie was appointed as Corporal on 2 Feb. 1942, whilst the Battalion was in position at the Causeway from Johore Bahru to the Singapore Island. He was with the rest of the Battalion at Selarang Barracks (Changi end of Singapore Island) after Capitulation of the City on 15/2/1942; was at Thomson Road Camp (Mount Pleasant and Caldecott Hill Estates) whilst the "Shrine Job" was in progress; returned to Selarang Barracks on 21/11/1942 with the closing of that Camp, and on 22/4/43 left it again with the major part of the Battalion under Major Johnston on "F" Force for Thailand to do his stint on "The Death Railway", being in Truck 5 with Lieut. G.H. Brown and Sgt. Don Garner and was in both No. 1 Camp Sonkurai and No. 3 Camp Sonkurai. A photo of him with two other mates (one being Ben Pearce) was taken by George Aspinall and appears in Stan Arneil's book, "One Man's War", showing his emaciated condition at the time. Ossie showed his occupation on enlistment as "Farmer" but in 1946, after demobilisation, he and his brother, Mike, took over the Post Office/Store at Binna Burra near Bangalow, a business, which had been run by their mother, since his father had died tragically in a fire at Bungalow in 1921. Ossie and Mike took a leading part in the district affairs but they closed the store in 1973 and Ossie continued the Post Office for another year before retiring from that activity due to his illnesses. "Makan" contains many references over the years to Members' habitual dropping in on Ossie and his family at the Binna Burra Post Office/Store and of the ever ready welcoming hand extended to all. Les Perry's comment in 1972 was that, "although I had not seen him since I left Changi on "A" Force in 1942, he is the same genial Ossie we all knew in the Bn"; others have said, "as cheerful as ever and still with a fund of stories" - "telling one of his famous jokes". Don McKenzie sent in a newspaper cutting of a poem, stressing “his kindly deeds knew no bounds....nothing was too much trouble to him.... Help given to all the kids...the hand of friendship extended to all", and Don commented at the time that "it was good to see that someone, for whom we had a high regard is also appreciated highly by the community in which he lives". Ossie served quite a term of years as a Councillor of the Byron Shire commencing in 1957 and in that same year he stood for election to the Federal seat of Richmond in a by-election, but was unsuccessful in that bid. Ian Pryce alerted folk in 1954 to Ossie's years of service up to then with Legacy and he continued with that helping hand. He took an active interest in the 70's in the establishment of a drug and alcoholic rehabilitation centre "The Buttery" in Binna Burra, adjacent to his own property. It was dedicated officially in June '80 but it had been in operation during the previous 7 years with 80 to 100 people passing through the centre in a year. As a criterion of the sympathy felt by folk for Ossie's family, it has been said, that the whole town must have turned out to pay tribute to him for the Memorial Service at 1:30 pm on 4th June at the Church of England at Bungalow, a rough estimate assessed numbers at about 1000 with twice as many outside the Church as inside listening by P.A. system to the Service. Interment was in the Bangalow Cemetery nearby and "Joe" G.E. Johnston (who had been one of Ossie's Groomsmen at his wedding), Harry Riches and Ernie Stratford were 3 of the pall-bearers to represent the 2/30 Bn, being supported by another 22 of the Bn. and about 24 Ex-Ps.O.W. of other Units, whilst the total number of ex-servicemen and ex-servicewomen was estimated at over 100, as he had been a member of the Bangalow Sub-Branch of the R.S.L. as well as of the Far North Coast Ex-P.O.W. Association. The many Masons amongst the Members of the Bn. Association will be interested to learn that Ossie was amongst the Past Masters in Lodge Bangalow No. 250 U.G.L. of N.S.W. and that a Lodge of Sorrow was tyled at the Bangalow Masonic Lodge at 12:30pm. an hour before the time set for the Memorial Service to begin at the Church. The Funeral Service showed the universality of Ossie's contact with folk, in that 3 Clergymen united in the conduct of the Service with Rev. Bruce Turner giving the Eulogy, Rev. John McKnight giving expression to a Tribute on behalf of The Buttery, and Rev: Allan Kitchingman leading the Prayers. The 1st Hymn was "How Great Thou Art", The 23rd Psalm was sung. The Lesson of Scripture was 1 John 4: 7-19, nominated in the 'Good News' Bible as stressing the message that 'God is Love', and was read by Dr. Ross Lehman, The Buttery Board Chairman. The final Hymn was "Abide With Me". Revd. Bruce Turner in his Eulogy spoke of Ossie's life from childhood; of his war service, and his service to the Community, saying that there would not be an organisation in the Binna Burra-Bangalow area in which Ossie had not been involved in some way. He commented that, if Ossie had a fault, it was that "he could not say No.” His dedication to the causes of ex-servicemen and women is also well known. His voice was being heard always, speaking and fighting for and on behalf of our causes. His major project lately has been as Chairman of the Centenary Committee for the town and district of Bangalow, when they were to celebrate their 100 years of progress later this year, and his work on that Committee was being carried out with the extreme vigour, for which he was well known in any project. Besides "Joe" Johnston, Harry Riches and Ernie Stratford, others of the Battalion on this Last Parade for Ossie were Ernie McNiven, Matt Cranitch, Tom Grant, Jimmy Speers, Russ Mackie, Len Clavan, Ray Godbolt, "Hoot" Gibson, "Kingie" Martin, Tom Davis, Sid Musgrove, Ron Sweeney, Jack Korn, Jimmy Small, Artie Power, Bill Sorenson, Clarrie Lattimer, Don McKenzie, "Jerry" Myers, Tom Wright, Fred Winters, Kevin McLean. Many wives accompanied their menfolk and there were several War Widows. Charlie Napper (Reg's brother) was there and had come up from the Clarence with Sid Musgrove and Ray Godbolt, as they had been staying with Charlie, when they heard of the sad news, The Northern Star newspaper of the 4th June contained a tribute to Ossie from the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Anthony, who, with Ossie, had been among the 4 Country Party candidates in the 1957 election. He reminded folk that Ossie had fought the campaign in a vigorous and friendly way, using the slogan "Jackson for Action", and said that he continued to enjoy Ossie's friendship throughout the years since then, and in fact that they had been friends before then, and that he knew that Ossie was respected and held in high regard by all, who knew him, either when they called into his shop at Binna Burra or come into contact with him in the course of his community work. Tom Davis and other reporters from the North have given the notes from which this account of Ossie's good works and last parade has been put together, and Tom has also said, "I am sure that Mavis and their two sons, John and Russell, gained much strength and support from the knowledge that there were so many loyal friends, and, I am not ashamed to say, that it was Ossie Jackson, who gave me sufficient strength, during those days so long ago, and more especially the days spent in Thailand, to survive. We, who are left, regret his passing; we are thankful for having had the privilege of knowing him and serving with him; we feel the loss of one of the "salt of the earth"; a good mate, and we extend our sympathies to Mavis, John and Russell and their families. "The Mourners at the Memorial Service came from all walks of life. Foremost were the men from 2/30 Bn, plus 2/18, 2/20. There were Widows as well as wives present. The Order of Service shows the names of the three Ministers,. who conducted the Service but in addition the Service was attended by the Catholic Priest in charge of the Bangalow Diocese Father Rex Hackett, who sat in the front of the Church. This also shows Ossie's popularity and the universality of his Community works. A tribute in the local paper, "The Northern Star" from Mr. Doug Anthony, Australia's Deputy Prime Minister, in itself speaks for Ossie" says our reporter adding "what other Bn man - has had such an honour" . "With Ossie's sudden passing an era has passed also. He was a founder of the Byron--Contact Group for Legacy for the Lismore Club,. as it was known then. He was Chairman of the Centenary Celebrations for Bungalow, which are. to be-held this year, in fact, the Rev. Bruce Turner said that Ossie had laid. the foundations so diligently over the last few months, with such research. and thoroughness, that the festivities were an assured success . He was Treasurer of Bangalow R.S.L for years. Foundation President of Bungalow Community Centre; a Member of the Church of England Parochial Council, at one time a Warden, a regular worshipper in the Church where his Memorial Service was held, "Rev Bruce Turner's eulogy touched on Ossie's life from child--hood, when, following a big. fire in Bangalow's main street in 1921, when Ossie's father was killed in an explosion, and Ossie was only 5 years of age, his Dad's workmates had run an appeal for funds and had then built the Post Office/Store at Binna Burra to provide Mrs. Jackson with a home and an income to bring up Ossie and his brother Mike, who were educated at Bungalow Primary School and Lismore High School. Ossie became a clerk on the staff of the Binna Burra Butter Factory on leaving High School and later transferred to the Lismore staff of Norco, where he was employed on enlisting in the A.I.F.. "Mr. Turner spoke of his time in the Battalion as being that of a wonderful soldier and mate, encouraging those, who felt that there was nothing left." As many of the Boys say, when we wanted to give up, Ossie ;was there to make sure that we didn't. he gave us, what we needed to keep going, so that we would return to Australia, that mateship, indomitable spirit of encouragement and cheer for all around him, so that we could do nothing else but make an effort to keep going.' "The Rev., John McKnight, the founder of The Buttery, the counselling centre for drug addicts and alcoholics seeking to rid themselves of the blight on their lives, situated next door to the Jackson home at Binna Burra, said "We are honouring a great personality. Ossie was a symbol of an authentic son of this land - a model Australian citizen. He was lover of home, with laughter and sincerity overflowing to his neighbours and into the community and nation he served. He had become a legend in his lifetime - affectionately known as 'Dad' to all at The Buttery. We have lost a great friend. Principles were import-ant to him. He paid the price for his service. When others doubted, he complimented; when rejected, he accepted, and he accepted change. When the world said it can't be done, Ossie said it can. When the rest were against everything, Ossie said it will be done. When there was no hope, Ossie said there was plenty! "That is our Ossie" says our reporter Rev. John McKnight continued, "It is my pleasure to announce that the newly acquired farm for the extension of the work of The Buttery, is to be named "The Ossie Jackson Farm", to honour one of our hardest working Committee Men and Directors from the commencement of this project. It has been a privilege to have shared life's journey with him. At the graveside the youngest R.S.L. Sub-Branch Member, Russell Branch, did a very good job in carrying out the R.S.L. Service, and it was estimated that about 100 Digger Comrades filed past the casket to place their poppy emblems and give Ossie his last salute. The full staff of the Bangalow War Memorial Hospital attended the funeral in uniform as tribute. Our reporter refers to Ossie's family life, "Ossie was a wonderful Husband and Father, and one only has to speak to his wife and his family to know how much he was loved and admired". Kath Stratford backs up our other reporter, saying "He was so proud of Mavis and their two boys, who are really a credit to him and Mavis. They will really miss him. The two boys used to take him golfing sometimes. Ossie aced to follow them around and each time used to find golf balls, so they christened him, "Old Hawk Eyes". You can just imagine Ossie laughing at that. I was an old Binna Burra girl and never remember a time without Ossie, other than in wartime. When he returned, he taught us all to play tennis, with Mike's help. He was Chairman at nearly every wedding in the District. Anyone, who knew Ossie, always enjoyed his 'jokes'. He and Mavis went to Brisbane to our Noel's wedding and were surrounded by groups of people wanting to hear more. He was Best Man at my Wedding with Ernie. We called on them frequently, on a Sunday, especially, when mandarins were ripe and with any other titbits, that we had growing, so we will really miss him; more so Ernie, who was in his Section over there, and had a very close comradeship with him." WE
WILL REMEMBER HIM 2/30 Bn A.I.F. Auxiliary Advance Information 3/8/81 Monday - A bus trip to GLEDGWOOD HOUSE & WINERY near NARELLAN where there will be a Wine Tasting and special LUNCHEON. Then cell in at GREENS MOTORCADE at NARELLAN. For Reservations phone Ron MASTON or Fred JOHNSTON. Cost will be $12.50 per person. 20/9/81 Sunday - VISIT TO THIRLMERE N.S.W. RAIL MUSEUM. Travel by train to Picton, then by steam train to Thirlmere. This should be a most interesting day, with GEORGE ASPINALL acting as guide. Interested people to phone Ron MASTON. 17/10/81 Saturday - PICNIC AT JAPANESE GARDENS, CHISWICK ROAD AUBURN. Planned to make this a Barbeque Gathering as part of 2/30 Bn. activities during NATIONAL EX-Ps.O.W. RE-UNION 14/18 Oct. This date does not interfere with the Bn. "B.J. Shield" Bowls Day on Sunday 18 October nor at present any other activities during this period, and therefore we would expect a very good roll-up to this PICNIC. 28/11/81 Saturday - SCHOONER TRIP particulars in the September "MAKAN". Back to 1981 index or Main Index |
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