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Makan No. 228
May/Jul, 1976

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

Subscription Rate: $1.50 per Year

Registered for Posting as Periodical: Category A

 

COMMITTEE

CHANGE OF EDITOR

Once again MAKAN has a new editor, its fifth in the succession, Stan Arneil, Harry Collins, Ron Stoner, Phil Schofield, and now Alex Dandie.

Phil has been giving warning of finding his disabilities worrying and that he was not getting any younger; so your Committee cast around for a successor. Your new Editor does not know how far their net was cast; but he does echo Phil's remarks in his first issue on taking over in 1971, and they were: "MAKAN's present Editor neither volunteered for the job nor sought election to the high honour" of following those, who have already enhanced MAKAN's reputation; he will try to do his best, but he did make it a condition when taking on the job, that he have assistance, so that he would be only one of a panel to ensure its production. He also echoes Phil in asking your assistance too. We hope to keep MAKAN portraying to all the Unit how the other members of our big family are getting on. "One way or another" please help to keep MAKAN going.

These are some of the feelings expressed in some of Phil's last bunch of letters:

"I am always pleased to receive my copy of MAKAN and read of others in the Bn.”

“We enjoy MAKAN so much it would be a shame to discontinue it.”

"Would you accept my congratulations on the current edition of MAKAN - in my humble opinion it is one of the best produced, full of interesting items, interesting news - in fact I almost had to use a crowbar to prise it from my wife."

AND MANY OTHERS IN THE SAME VEIN.

When many of the Battalion went to Mt. Pleasant for the Shrine job and the roads leading to it, your present Editor's title buffaloed the Japs for awhile, they did not have "Orderly Room Lance Sergeants" in their set up, but they finally handed over a square of cotton with Jap characters they told "Johnno" meant 'typewriter-clerk' and that is how we will work; you send me the news to 10 Hall Street, West Ryde, 2114, and our panel will let everyone know how the other fellows are faring. Jack Maclay, Fred Johnston, "Doc" Wilson and I make up the panel.

8TH DIVISION REUNION, BATHURST with MEMORIAL SERVICE at 8TH DIV. A.I.F. NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL

SATURDAY, 23rd OCTOBER 1976

After dedication of 8th Div. National War Memorial on 15/8/70 it was intended to have a reunion on the fifth Anniversary, l5th Aug. 1975 but a combination of circumstances operated against having it.

Proposal now is that such a Reunion be held this year. Suggested date is Saturday, 23rd October, as it is said that the weather at that time of the year is usually more pleasant than August and the suggested date does not appear to clash with other events in the District.

Apart from the cost of accommodation and meals the only expense would be out of pocket expenses of organising the function, and while the Committee has no funds in hand, (in 1970 the balance of funds was donated to Legacy), its members are prepared to undertake the necessary arrangements if they were to be assured of the support of a substantial number of members of the Division, wives and close relatives.

It is hoped that Unit Associations might be able to get members in other States interested in making the trip.

A notice to the above effect was circulated amongst 8 Div. and A.I.F. Malaya, at the assembly points, for Sydney marchers on Anzac Day, with a request that, those Unit Associations, which were having reunions on that day, discuss the proposal and let the Committee know through its President Jack Bennett, "Taringa'' Spring Mount via Blayney, N.S.W. 2799, whether there could be support.

Some of you, who received these notices, might have replied already to Jack Bennett signifying your interest; for some of you this might be the first time that you have known of the suggestion. The date might interfere with Tamworth Biennial 8 Div. Reunion Dinner which, from past Makans, is held near that date, but it appears that other regional reunions might not be affected.

As well as writing to Jack Bennett will anyone who is interested in attending at Bathurst, please let me know, at the same time, indicating whether you will be in a party, the number of people in that party, and an indication of how many womenfolk will be with you, so that we may know how large our Battalion representation will be.

SICK PARADE

Kevin Ward reports the state as at 3/6/76 as follows:

In R.G.H. and other hospitals:
Harry Law (A Coy)
M.A. (Mick) Bailey (HQ Coy)
John P. Commans (C Coy)

Discharged from hospital since last MAKAN:
George Aspinall (HQ Coy)
S.G. Grattan (HQ Coy)
S.J. (Scotty) Wallace (HQ Coy)
John Dickinson (C Coy)
Jack Tomsett (D Coy)
Harry Green (D Coy)
Des Duffy (B Coy)

ANZAC DAY 1976 - SYDNEY

Our Patron, Colonel Ramsay, moved by jeep with Colonel Jeater at the head of the 8th Division. He had previously come to our assembly point with Mrs. Ramsay and Max, his son, and chatted with the members of the Battalion.

Noel Johnston led the Battalion in company with the Association President Arch Thorburn.

Athol Charlesworth came down from Leura to carry the banner and never turned a hair in doing so. The said banner was the centre of a minor stir the previous day. It is kept in the custody of Vice-President, Bob Jack, who customarily brings it in to the march assembly point. Unfortunately, Bob was smitten with 'flu the day before and quite unable to march. Urgent 'phone calls, hurried arrangements, and the banner was at the right place at the right time. Happily, Bob is now O.K. again.

We had a good Scottish Pipe Band directly behind us, not always in step with another Pipe Band in front and apart from one halt in the very early stages of our march, we had a "non-stop" run through to the War Memorial area.

Col. Des Duffy was seen amongst the spectators, who lined the route. Des was recovering from a very recent heart attack and it would have been most unwise for him to risk jeopardising his progress. Nearby a bright cheering group of three of our wives was noted. Stuart Peach as amiable as ever made a quick visit to the assembly point.

The number of marchers was well down on past years. A total of 59 did the circuit and a couple more joined us at the end of the march near the Memorial.

Some of our blokes converged on the Combined Services Club in Barrack Street after the march, and quite a few gathered at the Masonic Club, being signed in, in both places by registered members. Word having been passed to the first group, most of them rejoined the others at the Masonic Club, where a few beers, sandwiches and pies were consumed, the foodstuffs being procured by the country contingent. But at 2 o'clock there was an ironic twist to proceedings. Never volunteer in the army, well it was forced on us out of the army this time. A spokesman for the Masonic Club's R.S.L. Sub-Branch informed all in the bar over a hailer that it was customary for some time past for the members of their Sub-Branch to assemble at 2 o'clock on Anzac Day, and preceded by the Police Pipe Band, to march to the Cenotaph to lay wreaths to commemorate their fallen brothers. He invited all in the bar to accompany them and added: "the bar will be closed until we return". So, we joined the march, but after our second visit to the Cenotaph we slipped from the line of march at Barrack Street and repaired to the Combined Services Club.

Several country members were down. Clyde Blencowe (D Coy) from Tumbarumba, Joe Field (HQ Coy) from Orange. Joe, together with Jack Conn from Port Macquarie, also (HQ Coy Signals) were on their first Sydney march, Wally Scott and Graham McLeod, from the South Coast, Norm King from Golspie had driven in around 6 a.m. to Goulburn, caught the train down and, after the day in Sydney, proposed to catch the train back to Goulburn and motor home again. Jock Logan had come from Palm Beach (Q) while Bill Sorenson had come from Kyogle.

Tommy Coombes of Padstow was on his second Anzac Day march. We tried to enrol him as an Association Member, but did not make much impact, unfortunately.

Big Jim Saunderson, was a most welcome participant. Jim who is now almost totally blind, was with "A" Force throughout the Burma-Siam Railway work.

Joe Marriott, another "A" Force man was there. He looks considerably more rotund than when with Alan Pryde in the "Three Pagoda Pass" camps on the "Railway".

ANZAC DAY - BATHURST 1976

Jack Maclay reports:

"The Bn. Contingent to Bathurst was Kevin and Dorothy Ward with the writer, by train; Ray Brown, Hylton Collins, Alf Austin and their wives by car; Bruce and Marjorie Pratt, President in Bathurst; John Korsch (Grafton) and Dulcie joined us at the Cairn, having been driven over from Lithgow by their son's family, he being a teacher there.

Those from Sydney were all together at the Bathurst R.S.L Club by 1530 hrs; Pres. Jack Manuel and Sect/Man. Col. Watson gave the whole party the traditional hearty welcome we have come to expect of this fine Club and so commenced a memorable weekend.

The complete representation, including ladies, attended the Dawn Service at the Carillon. Prayers at this Dawn Service were offered by Monsignor S. O'Doherty of the St. Michael and John's Cathedral, Bathurst. After the service all returned to the R.S.L. Club for breakfast, commenced by Pres. Jack Manuel proposing the traditional "Toast of Anzac".

The Battalion led the march from the R.S.L. Club to the Carillon for the Citizens' Commemoration Service; Bruce Pratt (D Coy) making up the six members in the front line.

The Service at the Carillon was indeed impressive. Lieut. Hutchinson, Salvation Army, on behalf of the Ministers' Fraternal conducted the Service. The guard at this ceremony was mounted by members of 8 Platoon, C. Coy, 17 Bn. R.N.S.W.R., which also did duty at the Dawn Service.'

Accepting the cordial invitation of Bruce and Marjorie Pratt, we spent a very enjoyable two hours at their home over lunch, after which we journeyed to the Cairns in Limekiln Road, where we were joined by Jack Korsch.

Councillor M. Locke, the Turon Shire Pres. delivered a fine oration. Pres. Jack Manuel introduced our members to the assembly. The writer responded. Canon John Vincent offered prayers. Scots College Bathurst mounted the guard. Music was supplied by the R.S.L. Youth Band. Ray Brown, B. Coy, presented the Battalion Trophy for the most improved player in the Band to Damon Fogarty, a cornet player.

It is well worth noting that the 2/30th Banner, for the first time, was mounted on the flag pole at our Cairn. The National Flag was on the 9th Div. Cairn opposite.

We then travelled on to the War Graves Section of the Bathurst Cemetery for a Sunset Service. Prayers were offered by Father Adrian Horgan. Guard was mounted by Scots College again.

We gathered at the Carillon once more for the Retreat Ceremony at 1800 hrs. Thus Anzac Day at Bathurst was completed; a long tiring day that brought memories flooding back.

For a completely satisfying weekend our thanks go to the Bathurst R.S.L. Club Pres. Jack Manuel, Col Watson, Sec/Man who saw to our every comfort; to Bruce and Marjorie Pratt for the warmth of their hospitality; and finally to those of the Association who made the journey, particularly the good lasses who accompanied their husbands.

I sincerely hope that I shall have the opportunity to return.

For and on behalf of those attending Bathurst.

Jack Maclay"

LAST POST

NX29924, Corporal Robert ("Bobby") F. GIBBS - "A" Coy - died on 24th May 1976 of a massive coronary at the age of 64.

He had been jackerooing at the time of his enlistment and came from the Narrabri District becoming one of the original members of “A” Coy; with his brother Ron, who was boarded out Before the Battalion sailed for Malaya

Bobby was on “F" Force and also on a Tunnelling Party, Adam Rd. Singapore Island towards the end of the War.

When he returned from overseas, Bobby went back on the land at Narrabri and later moved to Turrawan, 10 miles out from Narrabri. He and his wife Thelma had experienced three floods in the last five years and now have been having very dry conditions. Thelma told me that they lived a quiet life, largely because of the struggle the last few years, with Bobby being tired out at the end of the day. One bright spot, of course, was when Berice had. been crowned Princess of the Year at the Narrabri Festival, October Holiday Weekend 1971. He had felt the lack of contact with chaps in the Battalion, we have so few in the North West, that he had been planning on attending the Biennial 8 Division Reunion Dinner at Tamworth in October and then the Annual 2/30 Battalion Reunion Dinner in November.

Bobby's death has been a shock to all, although he had had one slight attack awhile back, to his wife, Thelma and their two daughters, Janelle and Berice, their husbands and Janelle's children, two boys and a girl; and we extend our deepest sympathy to them all, and to Ron and his family at Armidale.

LEST WE FORGET

WE SHALL REMEMBER HIM

OUR HERITAGE

Ron Maston reported:

"Read a very interesting Pan/Ballantine, Illustrated History of World War II entitled. "DEATH RAILWAY" written by a Major Clifford Kinvig, a serving British Army Officer and a Lecturer in War Studies at SANDHURST. This 159 page booklet makes interesting reading and gives the strategic reasons for the building of the Railway and at the same time gives facts about the death rate amongst the men building it, which makes one realise how fortunate one was to survive.

The determination of the Japanese people to win through at any cost comes across in reading this book and one can easily understand why they have come to be such a strong nation today.

Let's hope that some of this strength and zeal will develop in our own people, so that we can make Australia great. I believe it is the responsibility of all of us to set an example by our own conduct, while we live."

I felt his sentiments were echoed in this year's Prologue in the Commemoration of Anzac Service, Hyde Park, Sydney and I quote:

"We are assembled here to commemorate that immortal day when the young men of Australia by their deeds and sacrifice demonstrated to the world at Gallipoli that Australia was truly a Nation.

The sons and daughters of Anzacs came forward without question, accepted gladly, and discharged fully their responsibilities during World War II, Korea, Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam conflicts.

On this day we remember the sacrifice of such men for an ideal, for a way of life. Let us take strength in the knowledge and hope that our sons and daughters will never forget the examples set by their forefathers. In our everyday life let us endeavour to carry on those traditions established by past wars and conflicts at such tragic cost.

We think of every man, woman and child, who, in those crucial years died, so that the lights of freedom and humanity might continue to shine. We nurture too the obligation of showing gratitude for the peace we enjoy and the responsibility of ensuring that the freedom and liberty so dearly won is not lost by our own indifference.

So let us mourn with pride, but let us also remember with equal pride those who served and still live.

See that ye hold fast the heritage we leave you. Yes and teach your children that never in the coming centuries may their hearts fail or their hands grow weak."

CHURCH PARADE

Doug McLaggan (HQ) East Lindfield, wrote to Phil on what we would like your comment. Your executive favour his suggestion. What do you think of it?

"I see 'Johnno' regularly at St. Stephens, Macquarie Street City, as we are both elders, and have been there for years and years. Persia was there last week, and on Remembrance Sunday last Noel read the lesson representing the 2/30 Bn.

Noel said:

'I see by the Order of Service, my name is here representing the 2/30 Bn. AIF Association, but I would like to say that two brother Elders are in this congregation also from that Battalion, Elder Les Wharton and Elder Doug McLaggan, who join with me today.'

Might I suggest at some time we have a Church Parade at St. Stephens, Macquarie Street with what may now be the 30th Scottish Regiment, complete with pipes of Knox or Scots College. The Battalion colours are prominent in the Church and often referred to for the Courage and Fortitude they represent."

NEWS , VIEWS AND WHOS WHOS

GORDON PREEN ("DIGGER") - UMINA (NSW)

Gordon reports having had a heart attack, which downed him for awhile, but he is feeling O.K. now. Gordon had been a close friend of Bob Skinner, so that it was a shock to hear of his death.

ALAN PRYDE - CREMORNE POINT (NSW)

Alan mentions that Betty and he would be doing a car jaunt to the 1976 Adelaide Festival and back via Mount Gambier, Twelve Apostles, Bright, Buffalo, Fall's Creek, Murray Valley, Cooma etc. etc.

DON SCHUMACHER - BIRMINGHAM GARDENS (NSW)

Don reports that he and his wife, Monica, were about to take off for a holiday towards Melbourne and other parts, following their usual pattern of keeping going until half their funds had run out, then turning for home, usually making it to the gate 20 or 30 cents in their pockets and an empty tank. He hoped to call on some of the boys en route and would make good use of Phil's Member List.

SID HART - BIRMINGHAM GARDENS (NSW)

Sid was reported by Don Schumacher, who saw him on Polling Day, 12 December, to be "not so hot", but is putting up with it. He works at the right place, says Don, to put up with anything "at the Brewery".

VIC HAMLIN - NARRANDERA( NSW )

Vic's wife, Moyra, reports on his behalf that too much of the good things over Christmas had given him an attack of gout, also that he had had a bout of pneumonia last year, but that he is better now.

LAURIE MOUNTFORD - LEETON (NSW)

Briefly reports that he is carrying on fairly well, and that he rarely sees folk of the Bn.

JACK KORN - SOUTH LISMORE (NSW)

Jack merely reports that he and all his family were all keeping in the very best of health.

JACK ELLIS - OOTHA (NSW)

Val writes for Jack to say he has been keeping well but has put on a lot of weight. She says that they are still on their farm, but with only the two of them running it they find it getting hard at their age. She claims to six grand-daughters with the latest arrival a grandson at last. She hopes that they will be able to get away in 1976 for a few weeks holiday and roll a few bowls, as they bath play the old game.

WILLIAM J. DOUGLAS (B COY) - LEICHHARDT (NSW)

Darkie had to spend time in hospital with a duodenal ulcer and other small ulcers, which were all responding to treatment.

GEORGE GOUGH - CABRAMATTA (NSW)

Reports that, while he felt well enough, at the time of writing, he had been sent home from work on Tuesday 16 December, with another run of chest pains and the MO had ordered rest for the remainder of the week.

TOM NIXON – RANDWICK (NSW)

Tom listed travel itinerary as Evans Head, Brunswick Heads, and all ports north for four months, a month in New Zealand, and then up north again for the winter. Eldest daughter, Sandra recently got married and youngest daughter, Dianne, is off to Europe in February.

"I also would like to echo Alan Charlton's tribute to Bob Skinner. He was a character that one would never forget and, as Alan says, a tough, likeable customer."

A.A. MARTIN ("BOB") - HUSKISSON (NSW)

Tom Nixon also reported seeing "Ack Ack" Martin in Sydney recently. He was off for a holiday to Norfolk Island and looked as fit as a fiddle. He is going in for a Veterans wood chop soon and is confident of winning it.

FRANK HANNAN - WOLLONGONG (NSW)

We've learnt Frank broke his thigh around about last January, had lengthy hospitalisation, pin inserted. Other leg to that broken a few years ago.

MAX McCLELLAND - GRANVILLE (NSW)

Max's wife, Heather, briefly reported he was not well, when sending his subs, but did not give any details.

GEORGE KINSELA - GRENFELL (NSW)

George played host to Joe Field a few days before Christmas but Joe brought the cans of beer along and they went down well because, as George said, it had been very hot and dry up their way for the previous six weeks.

George found the hot spell trying, and not very good for the garden, or himself, as he was kept busy keeping the water up to the plants, but he hoped for good crop of tomatoes and other vegetables.

George is another bowler, playing twice a week and finding it a good past-time; although he says that he is not very good at the game, he does get a kick out of it.

RAY RICKARDS - YENNORA (NSW)

Ray comments that he and his wife are enjoying good health, and says that he never chances to meet any of the Battalion except his brother, whom he regularly calls on during his holidays each year, and who also was enjoying good health when last seen by Ray.

GEOFF ALCOCK - THORNLEIGH (NSW)

Geoff was very brief when sending in his subs. He merely reported to Phil that he had enjoyed the Annual Dinner night, and as “Gentleman George's" escort home after it, delivered him home safely, although George did have a fall negotiating a swinging door while leaving the Club.

VINCE LEONARD - FAIRFIELD (NSW)

Vince had a trip to Yass in November at the time of celebrations commemorating the first 100 years since the first Nuns arrived there. All Churches and the Masonic Lodge, he said, were behind the celebrations and helped to make it a wonderful weekend.

Vince says that he is still getting dance playing; usually through Thurstan Cubban, the top agent, though he does get some on his own. He owns a small electric organ, which is handy when pianos, which he is asked to play, are out of tune.

CECIL PALMER - SCONE (NSW)

States that it seems impossible for him to write a letter these days, and supposes that it is old age creeping on. He reports three bouts of trouble with his kidneys over the past 6 months, also, that his wife, Jean, had had an operation on her right hand and wrist to take nerve pressure off her shoulder and upper arm, caused through arthritis, additionally she had lost the sight of her right eye and only has half sight in her left eye.

He proudly reports that his eldest son's wife is expecting their first baby in July.

He says that it had been terribly dry all up the Hunter Valley, and water had started to get scarce, but that in the past 24 hours of writing they had had 2¾ inches of rain. Perhaps allied with that shortage of water, they had a pretty hot couple of weeks early in the start of summer '75, so they invested in a reverse cycle air-conditioner and "boy, it makes a difference to the comfort of a home".

Cec has not seen any of the members of the Battalion for a long time, but then he has not been getting about anywhere.

MICK BAILEY - SEFTON (NSW)

Writes that while he has not much news to tell, he always looks forward to "MAKAN" with its news of the other blokes of the Battalion, and that he was going along O.K., at the time of writing.

George Winchester reported that he had visited Mick Bailey at Yaralla mid April as Mick had been transferred back there for a further amputation, which had proved satisfactory at the date of George seeing him. (So Mick, as ever, keeping his chin up).

RON FOSTER - HORNSBY (NSW)

As an Industrial Organiser for the Public Service Association of N.S.W. (Trade Union) is spending half his working life travelling around the State for the Association. It gives him the opportunity to see some of the 2/30 Bn chaps, as he knows there are a few in the Association, and he names 'Stan' Lister and Tommy Grant (both Tick Quarantine Staff), Terry O'Rourke, Max Newton and 'Darby' Young, all Forestry Commission, and Kevin Ward, Tech Education Switch.

He reports that he is enjoying good health and boasts of a good record of 4 days sick leave in the past 30 years, but he is looking forward to the passing of the next five years, to allow him to retire at 60 years of age.

PETER MASON - HEBERSHAM (NSW)

Peter sold out in Lakemba last July and for the rest of the year was working as a wage plug, but country born like his wife he is thinking of "snatching it" and going back to Kendall on the North Coast, where he and his wife come from. They have a house being built there, so it is no idle dream. Peter has a daughter, Mrs. H.D. Jones living at Hebersham.

J.W. MONTGOMERY ("MONTY") - THE ENTRANCE (NSW)

Ron Foster reports calling at Vales Point Power Station recently and being confronted by Monty, who was employed there by the Electricity Commission on the telephone switch, the Commission having the policy of employing partially sighted people on switch boards. Ron says Monty looks well, he is no longer a member of the 2/30 Bn Association, he lives at The Entrance and plays regularly with the band at The Entrance RSL Club.

R.A. CHARLTON ("ZIPPER") - PUNCHBOWL (NSW)

"Zipper's" wife, Pearl, is our news giver. She says that she couldn't encourage him to write a few lines with his subscription so she put pen to paper on his behalf and reported that he had not been keeping the best of health lately, with more X-rays to be taken in the New Year.

She expresses the wish, that they will be able to retire to Harrington in the next couple of years and then "Zipper" will be able to sit in the sun and go fishing.

Pearl tells that their youngest son, Ron, and his wife, Barbara are expecting a baby early in the New Year, so that that will make their tally 13 grandchildren.

TED SKUSE - FOSTER (NSW)

Ted reported that he had every intention to make the Gemas commemoration on Jan 11, but that very important family activities intervened in that he had to attend his granddaughter, Pat's wedding. He writes, "I was going to make the effort, but, on the Saturday prior to the gathering, I have to attend my granddaughter's wedding at Kempsey. I don't think it would be appreciated, if I did not attend the wedding, as it is of great importance to me and Edna, as she is the first grandchild to be married, and she, Patricia, has chosen her mother's birthday for the event. Patricia is the second daughter of Frank and Carol Riley of Kempsey.

HARRY HARTNETT - HARLAXTON (Q)

Harry's wife put pen to paper on his behalf as he cannot see to write. She says that he is not very well at all. He has been in Repat twice in the last 6 months and is due to go in again.

LES SOUTHWELL - BATEMAN' S BAY (NSW)

Les' unpaid Secretary, Althea, wrote on his behalf, reporting that he was keeping well and enjoying his bowls, being a very active member of the Bateman's Bay Club, of which he is a Director .

They went to the East for a trip during '75, visiting Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Penang. Althea reckons Penang was heavenly and says that they had a lovely time there, however whilst in K.L. they got mixed up with the Red China Hijackers, and Les reckons "every time he goes to Malaya he is held up by Japs".

LES HEMMING - YAGOONA (NSW)

Les' wife, Dorothy, wrote on his behalf, reporting that Les was still working at Elcar Chullora, that he was keeping fairly well at present, but is looking forward to when he is able to retire and take off into the country somewhere away from the smog etc. Dorothy says that daughter, Lois, is still in an office in Burwood; Brian is going into 6th form and Kevin into 4th form at Bankstown Boys' High; Kevin has made up his mind that he wants to be a Carpenter & Joiner, but Brian is still making up his mind.

BLAIR TAYLOR - CANBERRA (ACT)

Responded to Phil's request for family news and said that his mother, Mrs. Edith May Brooks, an original member of the "Purple and Gold" Club died last year after a long period of illness. He also reported that his entries in the grandfather stakes also continue to grow - one daughter, Joanne now has two children (Kim and Caroline) and the other, Jennifer has one (Kylie).

On the bowls front he feels that his wife, June, and he must be improving; that June won the Woden Valley RSL Minor Pairs in 1974 and was runner up in the fours, then 1975 she was in the winning fours team. He proudly states that he was in the team of R.S.L. bowlers, which won the Annual "Diggers' Day" Tournament, open to all ex-servicemen bowlers from Canberra and surrounding districts.

Another one seeing other countries; he said that they were off to New Zealand, the week after writing, for their annual holidays.

FRANK TOPHAM - EASTLAKES (NSW)

Has been counting the number of his recent visits to Concord Repat Hospital and with the one from which he had just returned, he totalled 26 visits since 1969, so that he could well be considered as one of the staff. He says that he has come to know them very well over the years and comments that "he does not know what us old blokes would do without them and a word about them in MAKAN would be nice". Frank explains and asks forgiveness of Phil for writing like him; but he has joined Phil's gang, with his eyes not the best these days, still Frank moves into the Great-Grandfather class now, with 11 grand-children plus one great grandchild.

ARCH THORBURN - EAST LINDFIELD (NSW)

S.M.H., May 5 under "ENGAGEMENTS"

THORBURN – TOWNSEND - Mr. & Mrs. A.J.K. Thorburn of East Lindfield have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their eldest daughter, Diana, to John, only son of Mrs & Mrs. A. R. Townsend of Eastwood.

DON McKENZIE - LISMORE (NSW)

Reports that both he and his wife are keeping good health, and are fortunate having three of their daughters living in Lismore which means that they see quite a bit of six of the grandchildren. Their other daughter is in Melbourne where her husband is a buyer for Coles, they have two daughters, and Don and his wife were able to spend a few weeks down there last year. Their only son is married and lives in Canberra where he works for a construction company.

TOM BICKNELL - KILLARA (NSW)

Don McKenzie reported that he had a short visit from Tom and Fay Bicknell, also their very lovely daughter, Lyn, and Molly McEwen; all looking fit and well. Molly accompanied them to Brisbane for a few days, after which they called on Ron and Gwen Sweeney at Hogarth Range, where they spent two nights, had morning tea with Don, then delivered Molly home to Ballina, while they continued on to home in Sydney.

IAN GRACE – JANNALI (NSW)

Ian's wife, Levine, reports that they had a trip to Tamworth since last writing, so that he could bring back memories of training days, and show her the 'dongas and hills' and the campsite. She says that that day was one which she will never forget if she lives to be a hundred. Ian found three others of the Battalion and they cause her to remark, "what boys you must have been, the comradeship still exists"; also to express "their many thanks to all the people at Tamworth for a happy few days".

KEITH McFARLANE – BRAY PARK (NSW)

Cheerful despite his infirmities, reports that everyone in his part of the world is fine; but he gives a bouquet to his wife Beryl, for "getting his three meals a day".

DOUG McLAGGAN - EAST LINDFIELD (NSW)

Reports that he is very well; also had a "wonderful month world trip September/October '75, NOT ALL WORK? Revisited Edinburgh where I was at school, after 40 years but of all the cities in the world, after Sydney, I like New York best, and this was my second visit".

GORDON SAIFALLIE – NEWTOWN (NSW)

Writing from Melbourne, where he was visiting his sister for a few weeks as he is now retired, Saf. reports that he was unable to get to the Reunion in November because he had had a bit of a set-back; he could hardly walk around owing to a swelling which sent him to the doc, who was going to send him to hospital, then instead, gave him some capsules to take for a week, and at the end of the week, he had woken up one morning to find the sheets covered in blood and the swelling had gone down. The doc said that he had had a ruptured blood vessel. Saf says that everything is O.K. now. Saf found Melbourne in the grip of a beer strike, when he went down, but reported that he was going to a barbeque that night and would have plenty of the good old Carlton to consume. He had thought that he was in real DRY country when he first arrived, but, once the strike ended, there was plenty of the amber fluid flowing.

VINCE O'REILLY - SOUTHPORT (Q)

Vince reports a Christmas trip to Mt. Isa to spend the festive season with their daughter and her family and claims two granddaughters in the Grandpa Stakes. Their younger daughter Janelle is still overseas.

CON HEDWARDS - CONISTON (NSW)

Con complains that  pressure in this lively town of  Wollongong does not leave one much time for secretarial duties' and does not give information about himself but he contributed news of Dinny Lane, Sid Grounds and Edgar Dengate.

JOHN LANE ("DINNY") - HEATHCOTE (NSW)

Con reports that "our old mate, Dinny Lane, has made his pile and has just finished a tour of China. He is greatly wrapped up in Mao Tse Tung and reckons everyone is well fed, but has little material wealth. Dinny is contemplating a tour of India next year". Apparently the East has a lure for him, Con says, but for himself, they would be the last places he would want to see.

SID GROUNDS - CARLTON (NSW)

Con also reported seeing Sid Grounds recently. Sid is apparently O.K. and still working. His son is a top Rugby Union player.

EDGAR DENGATE - SAWTELL (NSW)

Con briefly reported seeing Edgar at Christmas time and envied him living the "good life" on the North Coast.

Edgar confirms this report, saying "I am well and keep occupied with part-time teaching at the Tech College and fishing. The fishing has been good with great 'outside catches’''.

At present my daughter, Jill, is home from New Zealand and my sons (2 out of 3) are staying with us, so it has been a great reunion.

It goes without saying that any of the old Unit mob are welcome at any time up here."

NORM KING - GOLSPIE (NSW)

Norm was brief. He claimed that he lived in a quiet spot and had no news.

TOM DAVIS - COBAR (NSW)

Here is a tribute from one champion to another. In his letter to Phil, Tom says, that, "for many years I believed that. I was the best money raiser in the old unit, being a past master in various methods of fund raising, but, after reading your various Makans over the recent months, with your 'tear jerking' appeals, I am convinced that I am only a beginner in the art of telling stories seeking money, and...."in short Tom coughed up with subs enough to put him ahead. Tom continued "Marj and I have just returned from our annual holidays, the first part we spent with our son and daughter-in-law at Coogee, and at long, long last, we are to enter the Gran-Fa-Ma Stakes, with the first arrival expected late February, early March.

After spending a week being tossled, pushed, shoved and bored, we gladly left that place called Sydney for the peace and quiet of the seaside at Yamba, going back to our old home base.

We had planned to purchase a home for our retirement (in a few years time), so had called on a firm of estate agents. After discussing our requirements with a gentleman of the firm, a number of building blocks and homes were selected and off we went to inspect. During discussions en route, mention was made that we came from Grafton, to which the man in question said, "I knew a Tom Davis, who was in the Ambulance Service", to which the reply was, "that's me".

"Well", came the response, "I am Alan McPherson". This was the first meeting since we came home, and immediately, a number of blocks, which he had intended to show us were put in the discard with the remark, "they would not suit you". So, after all these years, the bond which recognises good 2/30 men held fast.

We were able to buy a brand new home at Yamba and so will have a place to holiday in and to which we can retire.

We were able to have dinner, one night, with Alan and his wife who were joined by another man and wife, and once again Tom, was put to the test, 'do you know who that is?' this time, thinking back of Clarence River men, I got it right with the second guess. It was Harry Rhodes and his wife, Ethel, who had come down from Grafton, especially, so that we could have a private reunion. Tom's brother-in-law, Reg Napper, had that day come to Maclean, where he proposed to spend his holidays, that meant that we were able to have reunions all round.

We have now returned to the true west, until next holidays, life in these parts has become quiet within the Davis family household, with our only son living in Coogee, and only daughter now in Mudgee, both working for Banks."

ALAN CAMERON - DENILIQUIN (NSW)

Once again we are glad of the wife secretaries, in that Moira was our correspondent, she said that "Alan had been lax in communicating and sending in the necessary and as he is now having a short sojourn in Heidelberg Repat, he is having time to think and has asked Moira to forward his cheque, which he hopes will cover subs. and be a little extra - with all good wishes etc.

Moira comments that they do enjoy MAKAN so much, they feel that it would be a shame if it were to discontinue.

She states that Alan has been having a cervical laminectomy and is not looking forward to being in a brace for 8 weeks - especially with their Deniliquin weather. They are hoping that it will prove successful and that he will have some relief as the old arm wasn't functioning as well as could be.

She concludes with the wish that, one of these days, they will make one of the Battalion functions, though it is a pity Sydney is so far - and says "How Alan would love to meet up with you all again". (How about Bathurst in Oct?)

NUGENT GEIKIE - HUNTERS HILL (NSW)

Briefly put on record that he and his wife, Olga, were jaunting to Jakarta and Singapore for one month, leaving on 30 Dec, and that he would have more news on his return, as to how he found them.

LES PARFREY - DENILIQUIN (NSW)

Joyce writes that Les has been troubled with arthritis for some months but that it is much improved at the time of writing, and that they lead a pretty quiet and peaceful life, now that he is retired.

S.A.K. ("NUGGET') CRUMMY - SOUTH CASINO (NSW).

Thanks be for those who read their Makans. Phil's “WHODUNIT" in Nov/Dec last issue brought forth a confession from Nugget, that owing to a lapse of memory and being in a hurry to catch the postman, it was he who had sent Phil the postal order without covering letter. Nugget's excuse, with which we can sympathise is that it was the going off the grog. He concludes his letter by saying to Phil: "Hope this finds you drying out as you will understand"

RAY SIMMONS – WYOMING (NSW)

Ray comments Leila and I have decided to sell our Wyoming house to buy a unit closer to our daughter and her family after Christmas. We'll be looking for something in the Hurstville area.. It will have to be close to transport and shops, as I don't think I could walk 100 yds at present, and because of my failing eye sight, the right eye is practically useless now.

I've had to give up driving any distance or in heavy traffic. This eliminates any chances of me attending any of the functions, which I so much enjoyed. It's damned monotonous sitting around the house all day and if I have to go out, the wife has to take me, which adds to her burden.

"Our children and their families are both doing well; Wendell is still teaching at Engadine High School and Mitchell is doing very well in the optical business in Canberra. He now has three shops; one in Civic, one in Manuka and the other in Young, their respective children all doing well at school and all, Thank God, enjoying good health."

BRUCE GREER - BALLINA (NSW)

Ray Simmons also reports hearing from Bruce Greer that he and his wife, Billie, are well and expecting their second grandchild in late January. Ray says that he realised that they were walking on air, as indeed were Evan and Elizabeth, the proud parents to be, and Sarah, their older daughter, is also anxiously awaiting the new baby.

G.F. JOHNSTON ("JOE") - KNOCKROW (NSW )

Sybil tells that their first cane harvest from about 45 acres despite incessant rain and windy conditions was reasonably good with some above mill average for sugar content. They have also planted the extra ground being dug when Phil and Bob Jack went walkabout in '75.

She also tries to whip up enthusiasm amongst the metropolitan members to come up to reunions, saying, "they only have to catch Kirkland's Bus from Sydney; it starts at the Imperial Hotel, Kings Cross at 6:30 p.m. on Friday nights; St. Leonard's and Hornsby are its other pick-up places. There are returns every night." She assures us that they will meet the bus and take anyone wherever they want to go or there are trains and planes, anyone going has only to let them know of their intentions and transport up to there and accommodation can be arranged.

Sybil tries to do her best to keep in touch with the Battalion members on the far North Coast, while Joe has Legacy ladies also to keep up with, and yet, there she is having trouble with her arms, which need to have the nerve cut, and which she keeps putting off, as she hopes that she can put up with the pain and numbness for a few more years, because treatment she is getting is helping to give her some relief.

An interesting item from Reunions and Harry Riches' trip last year to North Queensland, is that Paddy Walsh reckons now, that since "Black Jack's" passing, Paddy must be the senior member of the 2/30th in age. (Ed. Is there anyone who thinks that they can take him up on this? Paddy has not quoted figures. Now George Ramsay was 77 on 8/1/76. with Arthur Purdon 75 on 24/12/75. Not only B.J. but also Len Dawson were in the top age group. Where does Vic Gordon come?

JOE VEIVERS - COFFS HARBOUR (NSW)

Norma fills us in with family news: "Son, David and daughter, Kathy, are both doing well at school. David has been made Captain of the 2nd year High School Cricket Team, and plays a very good game. Joe is immensely proud of him and of course encourages him to play all sport. Kathy is our ballet dancer and that pleases me a lot."

"Joe enjoys good health as usual, plays bowls as often as he is allowed, except when the kids and I nag him to take us out in the boat."

RAY BODY - RAYMOND TERRACE (NSW)

Ray has been a victim of troubles in the commercial market in that although he had been 22 years with Courtaulds Aust. Ltd. he was made redundant early December last and had been unemployed for 3 months, but hoped for better things now, as he had started into a new job with Hardboards Aust. Ltd, although he had to wait just over a fortnight before having a pay packet handed to him.

Ray said that it was incredible that there was a complete shut down of Courtaulds; the company had employed up to 1600, when they were really busy.

Ray says, "I was starting to get a little depressed at my failure to get employment. There is no doubt that once you get a few years on there is a definite age barrier, they either don't want you because of your age, or they tell you there are no vacancies. I went to just over forty industries and made numerous phone calls but to no avail. I am very sorry for anyone looking for work, and only hope none of our members are in that position.

BOB BRIDGES - GOULBURN (NSW)

Sheila tells of troubles her way with Bob having suffered another stroke on 13 December, was very ill for 3 weeks, but gradually has improved for her to be able to bring him home again after 12 weeks in hospital. He is only able to walk with a stick and assistance and he also has lost his speech, but he is still easy to manage and can still smoke and have a drink.

Sheila is glad to be able to say that they are expecting No. 3 grandchild in Sept when daughter Marion has her first baby. She tells us that Helen still has two, one at school and Robert, at present in England at Oxford University doing a Forestry Science Master's Degree. He was awarded the Russell Grimwade Prize for Forestry; he will be touring Germany and Canada before he and his wife, who is with him, return in September.

R. STAN SHARPLES - FAIRYMEADOW (NSW)

Stan reports that he and his wife were to leave for a trip to Hong Kong and Singapore, with 5 days in the latter place, on 8th March. He regretted that the time in Singapore was too short for him to see all that he would like to see.

STAN GRAINGER - CABOOLTURE (Q)

Colleen reports that Stan has a few aches and pains but otherwise is O.K. They are settled into their new home. Son, Stephen has graduated at the Police Academy and is very pleased to be living at home, being lucky enough to be stationed at Bribie Island, and has bought his first car. Daughter, Vicki, is doing hairdressing, says she will cut Stan's hair.

CLARRIE BURGESS - REDFERN (NSW)

Clarrie says that he has not been too bad; he just has to put up with the old spondylitis and osteoarthritis of both hips, and arthritis of the knuckles, but he says that he is on intermediate rate and draws the 'burnt-out' pension, so is not too badly off compared to some.

He also says that his wife, Pat, had had a major operation for ulcers last June and has been no good since, very thin, and had to cease work. Their children are well; they have 8 grandchildren and the youngest boy, David, had got engaged at Christmas time.

Clarrie also reports having Rex Bowman, 27th Brigade Workshops, and his wife Barbara, visit him on their way back to their home in South Australia, after a 16 days holiday trip to Thailand. Rex had been with Clarrie from the 25 Kilo in Burma. Practically right through all the "A Force" Camps and Kanburi, Rex was known as the "Match Maker". Plenty beltings, "slappy slap" when Jap watches wouldn't go. Rex used to mend the watches and they sold them to the Burmese and Thais.

Rex asked that he be remembered to Dinny Lane, Mick Lovell, Stuart Plowes and Jack Carey, and offers a welcome to Adelaide where he is a Building Contractor, to anyone of the Ps.O.W. visiting there. His address "Bowman Pty. Ltd. Keswick S.A. 5035".

EVA STANDING - LISMORE (NSW)

Eva writes that she looks forward to MAKAN and only wishes that she knew more of the boys. She was talking to Harry and Dot Riches in the town on the Tuesday and they both said that they were well.

She commented that she was very interested in the idea of the colour patch name plate brooch, if the 2/30th Executive agrees to it. Her immediate desire to have such a brooch arises from the fact that Lismore War Widows have their 25th (Silver Anniversary) Celebrations on the 9th July next, when all the heads from the Sydney Guild will be coming up for the occasion, and she says, it would be great if she had the 2/30th name plate to wear, as they are all asked to wear name brooches. (What are readers views, please? Ed.)

Two of her grandchildren were married at Christmas time and a great grandson was born about six weeks before she penned her letter.

LEN ROBERTS - WYONG (NSW)

Len and Margaret have been on a trip to South Africa to see son Vawn, daughter-in-law, Lynn and her family. In a 1970 Vauxhall Viva GT and with a small motor tent they travelled about 25,000 miles, taking in South Africa, Swaziland, Rhodesia and South West Africa and would have visited other countries, but were put off by the hassle to get visas and re-entry permits and a wait of 6 weeks each time for their passports to return from Pretoria.

Margaret says they went over many steep mountain passes with fantastic scenery; across the Great Karoo, where the mountains were high and bare and parts desolate and dry, but they were told that in the Spring it is covered with wild flowers. Some farms there have 4 windmills around the farm house.

They saw hundreds of sheep, cattle and more goats than they had seen in a lifetime; irrigation allowed of grapes, citrus and stone orchards and corn all growing side by side.

At Graaff Reneit they went to see the Valley of Desolation, where sheer cliffs rise to 120 metres above the floor of the valley, which is strewn with huge rocks and flanked by grotesque and weird columns of precariously balanced piles of basaltic rocks.

In Rhodesia they visited the Wankie Reserve for game; were impressed by the Victoria Falls and saw the Zimbabwe Ruins, whose origins are still not definitely established, but the ruined buildings are said to date from around 700 AD.

KEITH MULHOLLAND - NARRANDERA (NSW)

Ruth reports that Keith had an operation on both feet, 15th July last and had started back to work now after a long convalescence. Keith was in Calvary Hospital, Wagga and was operated upon by Mr. Nicholls, a very clever bone surgeon, with permission from Repat. for the op.

Ruth says that she and her daughter, Catherine, cannot thank Allan Turner, 2/19th nor Wagga R.S.L. for hospital visits enough, especially Allan, as he made sure that Keith had all he should have while there.

Catherine is in an Accountant's office in Narrandera.

KEN CRISPIN - JANNALI (NSW)

Ken's family news is that he, his wife Joan and daughter Ruth are well. He retired from the Aust. Gas Light Co. last July after 47½ years and is now working with Phoenix Assurance.

Ruth has just completed 4th year High School with all advanced levels in the School Certificate, including three A1 gradings. Son Bill, who is a Doctor of French Literature, has been teaching at Townsville, but has left to take a similar position at Launceston and is heading south with his wife, Pauline, and daughter, Abby.

ALEX CAMPBELL - STRATHFIELD (NSW )

Ken Crispin also included news of others in the 'I' section. Alex and Gwenyth Campbell are recently back from a trip to Scotland to attend the wedding of their son, Andrew, who married a Scots Lassie there, and having an enjoyable time.

IAN PRYCE - WAHROONGA (NSW)

Ian and Olga Pryce also had an enjoyable trip to Europe recently up to the point where Ian caught pneumonia in Switzerland. Both are well now.

E.E. HECKENDORF - ("CURLY") - LOCKHART (NSW)

Heck says that he intends to sell their farming plant after harvest this year and grow wheat with sharefarmers. His daughter, Joan, has finished her initial training and is waiting to start her obstetrics course, while the younger sons, Rowan and Tony, are still at school.

KEITH JONES - BURLEIGH HEADS (Q)

Keith reports that they have now settled into their new home in Burleigh Waters, but as yet they have no phone and also have plenty to do, lawn and garden wise.

LYN BOOTH  - TURRAMURRA (NSW)

Lyn's family news is that Betty and the family are well. Carolyn his eldest daughter (in Cairns) is expecting their third child in July next, while his eldest son's wife, Lynette is expecting her first in early March. Simon (No. 2 son) had just returned from a 5 weeks trip in Bali, Java, Singapore, Malaysia - in the last named he drove up the East Coast to Kuantan and thence got across to the West Coast via Fraser's Hill, up to Penang, then

back to Singapore. He goes into his final year in Earth Sciences at Macquarie University in '76. The younger children, Jonathon and Annelys, had just returned from 10 day camps with Outward Bound and Horse riding respectively. As for himself he is kept well and truly occupied, as there is still plenty of industrial problems to be overcome in spite of indexation.

ROSS MADDEN - ARMIDALE (NSW)

Ross' secretary, Molly, reported that she and Ross had both had glandular fever, but otherwise were fine. She says that their daughter, Helen, was recently talking to Harold French (Walcha) and found that he had been in hospital there for a short while.

DEREK SMITH - BARGO (NSW)

Derek reports all his family as O.K. Three daughters are now married and young No. 1. son is now 18, and at 5'10½ is 6" taller than Derek.

Derek's brother, George, lives at Surrey, England. A neighbour of Derek's, here in Bargo, on a recent trip to England and Europe, called on George and received a great welcome, and Derek says that, if any 2/30 Bn. fellows or their kin. visiting England like to get in touch with George, he is sure that they will be made welcome, and, as Derek says, "it is handy sometimes to have a contact". Derek himself is due for long service leave soon and plans to visit England in 1977 with his wife, Ethel as he would dearly love to see an English Cup Final in the flesh.

DON SUTHERLAND - BOWEN (Q)

Don tells that he has been married now for 28 years, having a family of four children, 3 boys and a girl; the eldest, Ethel, had lost their first grandchild; when he was 6½ months old, from spinal meningitis, but now has one boy and one girl, whilst the oldest son, Raymond, has a family of three, 2 boys and a girl, and he and his wife were expecting another child in March '76. Don's other two sons are not married as yet.

ARTHUR H.M. PURDON - TUNCURRY (formerly TENAMBIT)

Arthur let Phil know recently that he had lost his wife, Doris, on 27th April last, after a long illness and just a fortnight before they would have celebrated 50 years of married life. He has moved away from the Maitland area, having bought a caravan and taken up residence in the Tuncurry Caravan Park, Tuncurry, 2423, to be near two sons up there, working on the trawlers, and looks forward "to getting amongst the big ones" when suitable occasions arise. (I know that I will speak for all, Arthur, in saying that we sympathise with you and your family in your loss, and yet we appreciate that release from a long time of suffering lifts a big burden.)

OTHER LAST POST NOTICES are brought to attention although the parties concerned were not members of the 2/30 Bn.

Lieut. Col. CARL ERNEST MICHELMORE GUNTHER MBE, Medal of Merit,

MD, BS, DTM (Sydney) DTM and H (England)

Died 5/6/76 and was cremated at the Northern Suburbs Crematorium, Sydney on Friday, 18th June '76 - a great M.O. on the Railway, an able Administrator in New Guinea/Papua, and a hard worker in Tropical Medicine.

BRIGADIER SIR PHILIP TOOSEY Kt. CBE, DSO of Liverpool, England

Died 22/12/75 - was C.O. of a British Artillery Regt in Malaya and C.O. of Tamarkan and other camps between there and Nakompthom.

BRIGADIER "ANDY" FRANCIS JOSEPH DILLON OBE, MC.

Died 23/12/75 - had been an Indian Army Officer; landed in Singapore shortly before capitulation with 18 Div. (Br); one of those detailed to escape and almost got to Ceylon in a small boat but were picked up by the Japanese; was with "F" Force.

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

SUPPLEMENT WITH No 228 "MAKAN" - MAY/JUL – 1976

GATHERING TO HONOUR PHIL SCHOFIELD

Phil Schofield has vacated the Chair of Editor "Makan" and position as Chief Correspondent.

Without doubt Phil has done the job most capably, without sparing himself, and in so doing he has endeared himself the more to the members of the Battalion and knit us more than ever in that "togetherness", that he has preached so long, with the build up in numbers in the Association, the News Content of "Makan", his Supplements and Country Visits.

Passing years and, in particular, eyesight troubles have caught up with him.

Your Executive has been mindful of the fact that, some while ago now Phil refused Honorary Life Membership of the Association as an honour for his work and drive, but feel that you would like to join together in saying, "Thank You, Phil," for what you have done for us."

You, yourselves, your wives, his club, that he named "The Naughty but Nice Ladies", together with the "Purple and Gold Club" are therefore asked to come to a "Family Reunion" for this purpose.

PHIL KNOWS NOTHING OF THE PROPOSAL AT THIS STAGE. NO DOUBT HE MIGHT FEEL LIKE RUBBISHING THE IDEA, JUST AS HE REFUSED THAT LIFE MEMBERSHIP.

THE DATE IS SATURDAY, 14th AUGUST 1976
THE PLACE IS NORTH SYDNEY ANZAC MEMORIAL CLUB, ANZAC AVE, CAMMERAY
THE DATE IS SATURDAY, 14th AUGUST 1976
THE TIME IS  COMMENCING ABOUT 7 p.m.
THE FOOD IS SMORGASBORD STYLE to foster circulation.
THE COST SEVEN DOLLARS ($7) per HEAD.

Please complete as below, attach your cheque or Money Order and send it to Bob Jack promptly.

If you have not the necessary now, but intend to be there still complete the note of acceptance, post it to Bob and fix up with him, on or before the night, as convenient.

THE UNDERMENTIONED WILL BE AT PHIL SCHOFIELD'S 2/30 Bn FAMILY GATHERING ON SATURDAY, 14th AUGUST, 1976,

NAMES..............................................................

ADDRESSES..............................................................

(block letters please.)    .

TO:

Mr Bob Jack

(See over - 15 Aug - 2/30 Bn Church Parade.)

2/30 Bn CHURCH PARADE

ST. STEPHENS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, MACQUARIE ST, SYDNEY.

SUNDAY, 15th AUGUST 1976

11 a.m. SERVICE.

Our Battalion Colours are laid up in the above Church.

That Church honours those colours. Three members of the Battalion are Elders of the Session and Doug McLaggan, one of them, says that the Colours are often referred to for the Courage and Fortitude they represent.

We have never honoured the Colours ourselves as a Unit there, since they were laid up, but your Executive asks if you would join with them there on 15th August this year and make this weekend ore to remember by following the previous evening's Family Get-Together (see over) with attendance at St. Stephens, regardless of denomination, as the one Battalion family we strive to be in other ways.

Revd. Mr. Hardy the Minister, welcomes the idea of the Parade. Lady Galleghan, by chance, has settled on the day for a Parade of some of Red Cross. Arrangements are being made to see if the 17th Royal. N.S.W. Regiment's Company, which carries on the traditions of 30th Bn AIF, 30th Bn CMF and 2/30Bn A.I.F., might be able to join in such Church Parade, and also to see if a Pipe Band could be there on the occasion.

If there any members, coming from a distance for the "Get-Together" (as over) and the Church Parade, who would like accommodation arranged for them, will they please advise

your new Chief Correspondent (Alex Dandie), and will Sydney folk, who would be prepared to provide a bed or two and host them, please do likewise, unless, of course, you may have made your arrangements direct with each other.

FAR NORTH COAST Ex-Ps.O.W. REUNION DINNER: BALLINA

Date: SATURDAY, 14th August 1976
LOCATION: BALLINA R.S.L. CLUB

TIMES: WREATH- LAYING CEREMONY, 5 p.m. at MEMORIAL BATHS; DINNER AT CLUB, 6 p.m.

GUEST SPEAKER: PADRE WALSH (if it is possible)

Standing arrangements are that all Ps O.W., wives and families over 18 are welcome.

If you intend to be there, let the Club Secretary know.

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