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Makan No. 230 OFFICIAL JOURNAL 2/30 Bn. A. I. F. ASSOCIATION Subscription Rate: $1.50 per Year Registered for Posting as Periodical: Category A
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY ARE YOU COMING? 2/30 Bn ANNUAL REUNION DINNER DATE: Saturday, 30th
OCTOBER Other details, see past Makan. ANNUAL REUNION 1976 IS NOT ON Date for your final advice to Bob Jack of intention to attend was set as 20th Oct. BUT by 11th Oct. date of Committee Meeting THERE WAS ONLY ONE STARTER besides Committee Members. CUT OFF date to cancel without expense to members was found to be 13th Oct, so your Committee, though reluctantly, has decided to cancel 1976 Annual REUNION. Please let us know your thoughts - now and for the future. TAMWORTH BIENNIAL EX-Ps.O.W. REUNION DATE: Saturday, 16th
OCTOBER B.J. MEMORIAL SHIELD AND Bn BOWLS MORNING - 17th OCTOBER 1976 TIME: Morning start 9:30
am Wives and non playing members invited to give support, and are included in the luncheon invitation. Kevin Ward reports that he wants 3 more bowlers for the Bn team. What about it chaps? Give Kevin a ring on 642-3932. GRANVILLE EX-Ps.O.W. REUNION DATE: Tuesday, 26th
OCTOBER Max McCLELLAND is a member. Pioneers WHAT ABOUT IT? NORTHERN RIVERS BRANCH NSW Ex-Ps.O.W. ANNUAL REUNION - GRAFTON DATE: Saturday, 13th NOVEMBER TIME: Wreath Laying Ceremony at Cenotaph, Prince Street, GRAFTON (opposite Crown Hotel) at 5 pm Dinner at the GRAFTON
SERVICES CLUB, MARY ST. at 6pm CONTACT: Harry RHODES (B Coy) Sec/Treas 99 Cambridge Street, SOUTH GRAFTON, 2461 SICK PARADE Kevin Ward reports that the state of the Sick Parade is: In Hospital: Keith Chapman and Harry Laws Discharged since last Report: Jack Maclay, "Curly" Simpson, Len Lansdowne, A.A. Martin. LAST POST NX47606 - M.K. BROAD (D Coy) "Broadie”, as he was usually known, was an original of 15 Platoon; was repatriated from Malaya on 31/12/1941, but did not become a member of the Association. His sister, Mrs. B. Dorrington, 2/46 Oatley Avenue Oatley, NSW responded to my letter of sympathy, saying that for many years he had lived in Victoria, but had not been in good health for some time. He had a heart operation five years ago; one leg amputated this year, while the other leg was to have been amputated 27th June, but he had died on 20th June, thus saving him a great deal of suffering. Mrs. DORIS ISOBEL DOUGALL The S.M.H. of 11th September records that Len Hendy D Coy lost his mother on 10th September 1976 suddenly. She was a very active member of the "Purple and Gold" Club. JIM WEBSTER - MEREWETHER NSW Jim lost his wife on 20th August last, as reported elsewhere in this Makan. Mrs. JESSIE MARY HARRIS Mr A. Harris, mother of Joy and mother-in-law of Johnnie Parsons, dazed suddenly on 19th September. The Battalion was represented at the funeral service and cremation service by Ron McBurney, Tom Massey and Alex Dandie. WE WILL REMEMBER THEM - LEST WE FORGET MEDIBANK, ALLIED MATTERS AND PENSIONS Phil Schofield has been researching Medibank and Pension matters as our brief note advised in last Makan and here are the results of his efforts: 1. quite a lot of useful information has appeared in the Media, as well as an informative booklet which was available at Medibank Offices, Post Offices, etc. While the information furnished, generally speaking and so far as the average person is concerned, was most useful, only rather scant reference has been made to the particular circumstances affecting our members and widows. 2. Because all of our members are Repatriation beneficiaries entitled to free medical and hospital treatment but, with some exceptions, our wives and dependant children are not similarly covered, some notes on how Medibank affects us could be of assistance. While every effort has been made to cover all situations and provide accurate information (and Medibank Central Office have been most helpful) many matters have not yet been fully determined at this relatively early stage (mid-Sept, 1976) and it is accordingly stressed that the following information is furnished without responsibility, and as a guide to what is believed to be the position at this juncture. Members should ascertain the exact position when taking out the particular type of cover they decide upon. Figures shown are for NSW. Apart from the Levy, charges for extra benefits through Medibank or Private Health Funds could vary in other States. Members 3. In the case of an unmarried member, or a widower without dependant children, no Medibank Levy is payable, and, you are completely covered by Repat. It has not been decided at this stage how Repat. will advise the Taxation Office that the member is not liable for payment of the Levy, but this will be done, and advice concerning it will probably appear by way of advertisement in the Press. If he is employed or receives Superannuation, Age or Service Pension, from which tax is deducted at the source, he should obtain from the Post Office, Health Insurance Levy Exemption Claim form, complete it and furnish it to the Paymaster concerned. 4. In the case of a member with one dependant only (a wife or a widower with one child) he will require to cover the dependant, either through Medibank or a Private Health Fund. the family taxable income (i.e. taxable income of the husband plus wife) is not more than $4,300, he will not have to pay any Levy for Medibank Standard cover. This provides the same benefits as it does now, and includes hospital care in a Public ward, with treatment by the Hospital Doctor. 5. If the family income is greater than $4,300, then the Levy is charged at a slightly lower rate up to $4,698, and then at the rate of 1.25% to a maximum Levy of $150 per year. 6. If shared room hospital accommodation is desired, plus treatment by the Doctor of the patient's choice, additional cover - at the single rate - will require to be taken out. It can be taken out through either Medibank or a Private Health Fund and costs an additional $1.30 a week ($67.60 per year) above the Levy paid - in the case of a family income less than $4,300 per year, no Levy is payable, but this extra cover can still be taken out. 7. A comparison of the cost, at different income levels, with the rates advertised by one of the large Private Health Funds in N.S.W. may prove helpful.
8. If Private Health Fund cover is taken out, no Levy is payable, and the Health Insurance Levy Exemption Claim form should be furnished as advised in paragraph 3. 9. In the case of a member, with more than one dependant (wife plus child or children or widower with two or more) it will be necessary to take out Family cover. 10. The same remarks as in paragraphs 4, 5 & 6 apply, except for the cost of the Family Cover for shared room accommodation. A comparison of the cost shows:
11. If Private Health Fund Cover is taken out, no Levy is payable, and the Health Insurance Levy Exemption Claim form should be furnished, as advised in paragraph 3. 12. Additional cover can be taken out, either through Medibank or a Private Health Fund to provide for additional payments and benefits, such as Private room accommodation, Theatre charges, Ambulance charges etc, and members should ascertain from the various Funds exactly what additional benefits are included, and for how long they are paid, before signing up for this type of cover. As a guide to the cost, which means taking out Medibank Plus, tables 1, 2 & 3, or complete medical and hospital cover with a Private Health Fund, to the comparative Table appearing in paragraph 7, add $67.60 to each total appearing for Medibank, and $26 for each total appearing for the Private Health Fund. Sample lines would then read: Income $ 8,000 Medibank
Total $235.20 Private Fund $232.56 13. The Family rate would also increase - by $135.20 for the Medibank total, and by $52 for the Private Health Fund - and sample lines would then read: (paragraph 10). Income $ 8,000 Medibank
Total $370.40 Private Fund $445.12 14. The Medibank booklet advised that if the additional cover is taken out as per paragraphs 12 and 13 Medibank (and most of, if not all the Private Health Funds) would only pay an extra benefit for private room accommodation for a total of 35 days for each person in each year; and the benefits are not paid for pre-existing ailments. After the 35 days, or for pre-existing ailments, the rates for shared room accommodation only are paid; and the patient is covered for 365 days a year, 14a. However Medibank have advised under date of 6th Sept. that provided the election to join Tables 2 or 3 is made by the 30th November next, and the fees are paid, the provisions regarding 35 days payment, and non-payment for pre-existing ailments, will not apply. Because the services have changed during the settling-in period, it is essential that full enquiries be made as to exactly what is provided by Medibank and Private Health Funds, before taking out the cover you desire; and in the case of Medibank, when cover under Tables 2 & 3 is sought, you must complete all arrangements by 30th November. Widows 15. Our widows are
divided, basically, into three categories: (b) Those not in receipt of a War Widows Pension, who are in receipt of a Social Security Pension and receive Fringe Benefits and have been issued with a Medical Benefits Entitlement Card. (c) Those not in the above categories, who may even receive a Pension or part Pension of one kind or another, but do not receive Fringe Benefits because of the Means Test which has been applied to their particular case. 16. Those under category (a) above are Repatriation beneficiaries who receive free medical and hospital treatment for themselves and any dependant children. Being completely covered, their only concern would be if they happened to have a child, or children, no longer considered dependant for the purpose of receiving the free treatment. In that event, preceding paragraphs 3 to 14a as appropriate, would apply to them. 17. Those under category (b) are further divided into two classes: (1) Those in receipt of a Widows Pension, and (2) Those in receipt of an Age Pension. Both have been subjected to a Means Test for the issue of their Medical Benefits Card and other Fringe Benefits. (Please see subsequent section on Pensions regarding comparison of benefits between these two classifications. 18. Neither category will have to pay anything for Standard Medibank (i.e. medical benefits and Public Ward and treatment by a Hospital Doctor) either for themselves or any dependant children, but if additional benefits are desired, such as shared room accommodation and treatment by a Doctor of their own choice, then they will require to take out extra cover, either at the single rate (if for themselves only) or the family rate (if there are dependant children). The cost of this cover is $67.60 (single) and $135.20 (family) per year. 19. Those under category (c) do not get the same free benefits mentioned above, and if the Levy is payable (see following) it is charged at the rate of 2.5% with a maximum of $150, if they have no dependants, and $300, if there are dependants. In their case, the income they receive is classed as family income when they have dependant children. 20. No Levy is payable for Standard Medibank if the widow is on her own and receives taxable income of $2,605 or less - or, if she has a dependant child or children and her taxable income is $4,300 or less income above these figures, she pays 2.5% to a maximum of $150 (i.e. on $6,000) if single and $300 (i.e. on $12,000) if for a family. 21. Whether the levy is payable or not, she can take out extra cover for herself and her family (if applicable) to provide for shared room accommodation and, treatment by a Doctor of her choice; and some examples may prove helpful as an indication of costs in that regard. For a widow without dependants (i.e. at the single rate)
With dependants (i.e. at the family rate)
22. From the above, it follows that for a widow not receiving any free treatment; on her own, whose taxable income is greater than $5,200 ($100 per week), or with dependants, whose taxable income is greater than $10,400 ($200 per week) in both cases requiring shared room and a Doctor of her own choice, it will cost her less to opt out of the Levy and take out Medical and Hospital Cover either with Medibank Private Insurance, or with another Private Fund. (Please see paragraph 14a. preceding, re registration before 30th November next.) Payment of the Levy and Fees to Medibank The Levy is collected by the Taxation Department. In the case of those who receive regular income, from which Income Tax is deducted at the source, a further deduction will be made to cover the Levy - normally at the rate of 2.5% of the income. Those whose Income Tax is assessed annually, following submission of their Return, will be charged additional Tax to cover the Levy - normally at the rate of 2.5%. The Levy is payable on the Family Income, and advice from the Department indicates that next year's Return Forms will make provision for showing the Taxable income of the spouse. It is also quite likely that the amount of Income, receipt of which (or a lesser amount) did not require submission of a Return, will be amended both as to amount, and the inclusion of Family Income in the reckoning. Since our members, and widows in receipt of a War Widows Pension, if electing to pay the Levy, only pay at the rate of 1.25%, it is important that they ensure that their Paymaster and the Taxation Department receive the appropriate forms of notification of the reduced rate of assessment; or of the fact that they have opted out of the Levy - in cases where they have covered through Medibank Private or a Private Health Fund. If you have taken out additional cover through Medibank Plus or Private, there may be cases where the employer will agree to deduct sufficient from your pay to cover the contribution, but it is basically up to you to ensure that Medibank receives the contribution. In most cases, payment should be made direct to Medibank on a monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or yearly basis. Similar arrangements apply to Private Health Funds, as a general rule. Similar arrangements to
the foregoing apply to widows who are not Repatriation beneficiaries,
except that the Levy payment is at the rate of 2.5%. Owing to differences having arisen between Repat. and the Hospitals Commission of N.S.W., it was recently announced that ex-Servicemen living in country areas and entitled to free hospital treatment as provided by Repat. would be admitted to country hospitals as Public Ward patients, with treatment by Hospital Doctors. This, in fact, is what occurs when they are admitted to the various R.G.H.s. in the capital cities, but in country areas in the past, it had been the habit to admit them to shared room accommodation, with treatment by the doctor of their choice - generally their L.M.O. Following settlement in the matter having been arrived at, it is now advised (under date 3rd Sept.) that the previous arrangement will be observed, and country members will again receive shared room accommodation, with treatment by the doctor of their choice. War Widows and their dependant children will receive similar benefits. Nursing Homes Certain Nursing Home benefits are provided by Repat. for members and War Widows, but all those not covered by Repat. benefits, and desiring assistance towards meeting these costs, require to be enrolled in Medibank Plus under Tables 1, 2 or 3 (or all three). In that event, and provided it is an approved Nursing Home, and the patient's admission has followed the proper course, a benefit $5.70 per day will be paid by Medibank to contributors. It therefore follows that anyone desiring Nursing Home accommodation, either through Repat. or eligible to receive the payment, should ensure that the proper procedure is followed. This information should be obtained by prior reference to Repat or Medibank, as the case may be. Service Pensions Apart from announcing rises as from the first pay period in November, which happens to be 4th November, the recent Budget announced that the method of arriving at the Means as Assessed for determining the amount of Service Pension payable would in future eliminate the property component (from which was previously obtained a figure which was called the "Deemed Income") and the actual income from property would be taken into account for the purpose of the Means Test. This could, and ultimately will no doubt, have vast repercussions, but the Minister concerned has been quite emphatic in subsequent statements that none would be adversely affected for the present at least, by the altered method. The principal advantage in the new system will probably be experienced by our members who are farmers, who own a valuable property from which they are at present receiving little, if any income. The value of the property could have been sufficient to have means-tested them out of eligibility for a Service Pension under the old system, but, on an income basis, they could now qualify. If the strict terms of the announcement are adhered to, members with a large surrender value of life policies, or property earning a low net return, could benefit; while those with superannuation reckoned on an asset basis, or property earning a high net return (say debentures at 13%) could be adversely affected. Unfortunately, no definite information can be provided at this stage, as precise details have not yet (6th Sept.) been advised to Repat; who advise that it is quite likely that details concerning the matter will be published in the Press as soon as they are to hand. They expect some finality in the matter during the next few weeks. Promptly following the advertisements in the Press, or following receipt of these notes if no advertisement has appeared, members who feel that they may now qualify for a Service Pension should make application to Repat, and those on a part Pension who consider they will benefit from the altered method of calculating the Means Test, should make application to Repat for a review of their Service Pension. In case members should wonder why some members in receipt of a full Service Pension for themselves and their wife, receive Fringe Benefits, with medical benefits for their wife, but others do not receive them; the answer lies in the Means Test for the issue of those benefits. As explained in previous articles, the Means Test for Fringe Benefits differs from the Means Test for Service Pension, and includes additional features (e.g. the whole of the War Pension received, in lieu of only 50% of it in the Service Pension Means Test). That means that it is quite possible for a member and his wife to receive a T.P.I. Pension plus a full Service Pension; but application of the Means Test for Fringe Benefits would exempt them from receipt of the benefits - he of course receives certain benefits as a result of being a T.P.I. Widows Pensions and Age Pensions Subject to a Means Test, a Widows Pension is payable to a widow who has the care and custody of dependant children, irrespective of her age. If her children have grown up and are no longer classed as dependants, the Pension may be payable if she is 45 years of age or more. When she has not had any children, she requires to be 50 years or more. Still subject to a Means Test, she may receive Fringe Benefits, which entitle her, and her dependant children to free medical benefits and Standard Ward Hospital treatment, plus other benefits regarding her rates telephone rental, travel etc. Also subject to a Means Test, an Age Pension is payable to a woman provided she is 60 years of age or more, or free of the means Test if she is 70 years of age or more. If she has the care and custody of dependant children, a further allowance is paid for each child and, also subject to the Means Test she may receive the same Fringe Benefits as a Widows Pensioner receives except that her dependant children are not covered for medical, and hospital treatment - they are now, however, covered by Medibank. Basically, the rates of Pension are the same ($82.50 per fortnight, plus $l5 for each dependant child), though some additional allowances accrue to the recipient of the Widows Pension who has dependants. The principal difference accordingly lies in the age at which they are available, and this could have some bearing on which Pension should be sought. If, for example, one of our members, aged 60, has applied for and has been granted a full Service Pension for himself and his wife (the wife's age does not have any bearing on the application), and he dies. In that event, Repat will continue to pay the widow her portion of the Service Pension, which at the present time amounts to $68.50 per fortnight; but Repat cannot increase it to the Single Rate, which is $82.50 per fortnight. It now depends on the age of the widow and the position regarding dependant children as to whether she allows the Repat Pension to continue, or requests transfer to Social Security, to a Widows Pension or an Age Pension - assuming, of course, that her application for a War Widows Pension has been declined through all stages. Such widows should immediately seek the advice of the nearest Legacy Club or Social Security representative, who will advise her of the most advantageous course for her to follow. With the forthcoming introduction of actual income, in lieu of property component, into the Means Test calculations, some of our widows, who have been adversely affected by the Means Test may now benefit from a review, or a fresh application. They should seek expert advice on the matter, as suggested in the preceding paragraph. This applies particularly to widows who have been left property, which produces little, if any, net income, but which is of sufficient value to have means-tested them out of a Pension under the old system; whereas now, they could be eligible. Should any of our members or widows have any queries on any of the foregoing matters, enquiries should be directed to: Phil Schofield, who will do his best to provide an answer. FAR NORTH COAST REUNION Our reporter on the spot says that the Far North Coast Reunion on Saturday, 14th August last, was a great success. Many of the boys travelled from outlying districts to see Padre Paddy Walsh once again. Padre himself said that he had received a note from Stan Scarrabellotti asking if he could get down for the Reunion, which he managed to arrange after some wrangling. The arranging of the Reunion was, as always, done by the four stalwarts - Noel Hampton, Len Clavan, Norm Watkins and Sid Jamieson, all four of whom were the organisers of the first of the Ballina Reunions. Joe Johnston and Stan Scarrabellotti met Padre at Brisbane Airport and drove him straight to Ballina, but because the plane had been late they did not arrive in Ballina in time for the wreath laying ceremony, which was conducted by Dean Redford of Ballina at the War Memorial Baths, in the place of Padre. Consequently Padre went straight to the dinner. He said that Ballina served up one of its coldest nights, but the warmth of the reception kept out the cold, and he had a wonderful night. In Jackie Fell's words, "only a few hardy souls braved the cold windy conditions and we were glad to return to the warmth of the Club". Our reporter writes that for many years the wives have heard their husbands speak with love and respect of their Padre Walsh, and at last, they too have met him, whom they regard as "A wonderful man, who, through thick and thin, saw to these boys, giving a word of encouragement here, a small prayer there, whatever the cause may be. The wives now too have the highest regard for this estimable gentleman, Padre Walshe" and a little later in the letter commented, "From all reports received our Padre's visit was most warm and friendly and we are hoping, Padre that it won't be long before your next visit. To you goes a most warm and humble, Thank You." The Padre did the 9 o'clock service at the R.S.L. Club on the Saturday night, and the 6 p.m. mass on the Sunday evening and in his congregation that night were two of the boys and their wives, who were warmly received by the congregation and a very sincere service was given. The decorations for the Saturday night dinner were palms and paintings of Jap guards and barbed wire. The food was delicious and in abundance, with seafood being the main dish. It was served as a smorgasbord and was delightful, also there was plenty of nut brown fluid about. Ted Rickards, who was over from Mungindi, gave a recitation, which was enjoyed by all. Those present were: Norm and Raema Watkins, Fred Newlands, Bernice Kentwell (widow of Ron, C Coy), Marty and Betty Wallwork, Russ and Marcia Mackie, Bob and Shirley Robinson, Jack and Vera Fell, Len and Win Clavan, Tom and Norma Wright, "Snow" and Kath Hampton, Tom Nixon, Harry Riches, Jack and Tin Korn, Norman Lee, Jack and Una Clune, Arty and Nancy Power, Bruce Greer, Jim and Margaret Morgan, Tom and Norma Grant, Ted and Cetress Rickards, Bill and Flo Sorenson, "Sluggo" and Sheila Jones and Joe and Sybil Johnston, and of course, Padre Walsh. These members of the 2/30th far outnumbered members of other units, possibly because Padre Walsh was the guest of honour. Ted Rickards was very glad to see so many of the unit there, some of whom he had not seen since the end of the war. Padre Walsh looked like his old self but, like most of us, was starting to show his age, of course we have to remember that he was 74 young on Sunday 29th August, and yet Padre says "During the night one of the boys remarked to another; "doesn't Padre look well? It seems a good argument not to get married." His own comment in reply is, "But judging by their looks, their wives were doing a good job in looking after them." Jack Fell, in his comments on the Reunion, said, "Tom Nixon, whose hair is getting to be a bit on the white side, remarked, that I must be using the same sort of dye as he is." He comments that, "Harry Riches is still a pretty big fellow, but does not appear to have aged as much as some of us." Padre was taken by Stan Scarrabellotti on the Sunday to see some of the district; then, on the Monday, Joe Johnston and Bruce Greer did the honours by taking Padre as far as Casino, where they looked up Nugget Crummy, whom they found not as active as he used to be, (But, the message is Nugget, that they hope to see you at the next dinner.) On the way they called on Mrs. Eaton-Lee (Sister Blanche, P.O.W. Sumatra) who was also a friend of Bruce Greer's sister (Sister Greer). They also went round to call on Mrs. Eva Standing (Ted Standing's widow) at her flat in Ozanan Village in Lismore. Padre said, "It was great to see them and talk over old times. Some of the folk I had not met for 30 years." On the Wednesday Stan Scarrabellotti and Harry Riches drove Padre back to Brisbane, to catch a plane and land back to work. He says, "I am very grateful to all those who organised the trip, including Alan Wilson, District President of the RSL. Regards to all the boys of the Battalion, no matter where you may be. Let them know through Makan that I do remember them all, even if you hear from me so seldom. Yours sincerely, Padre Paddy Walsh." PHIL SCHOFIELD' S NIGHT or REMINISCENCES re our PHIL and OTHER THINGS Line space forbade me recounting to you last Makan those choice bits of those irrepressibles, who were on their feet at the "do" for Phil; as well as what the Committee allowed. They were, in turn, Garry Evans, Snowy Stevens, George Clarke, Stan Arneil, and George Winchester. But, again, I must say, that the mere words will not fully portray the feeling and expression in them as uttered, nor, in Snowy's case, the appropriate actions, GARRY spoke of the trust that he always had had in Phil, that he would be able to cope with any situation that might arise; and of the first occasion when he had felt that this was so; that he, Garry, had been responsible forgetting Captain "Togo" Lloyd away with him to Bathurst, while they were in camp as rearguard for one of the Battalion leave periods, his argument to "Togo" being, that the camp control would be in the hands of Phil Schofield, than whom there could not be a better man for the job. SNOWY seemed as though he had dropped a clanger when his opening remarks were "One thing that was wrong with Phil, you did not belong to Headquarter Company" but he recovered amidst uproar, "But anyhow, we finally accepted you for the good job you did writing for Makan. I would say to Phil, "how much do I owe you" and he would say, "Snow, you are right till about 1985". I always made sure that I had my subs. I would hate to see that "look-down-the-nose" treatment Phil could give you. Phil, a good job well. done." "Now" said Snowy, "I would like to tell this story (quite apart from Phil, but a good "do you remember" one, appropriate to the night). "At one time I could have got court-martialled about this, but I think that it would be very very nice. If you chaps remember Bathurst, where the flies used to be around and we used to have nets and everything like that with millions of flies. Well, on one Friday night the Mortar Platoon had a Smoko and we had invited B.J. to the turn-out and B.J. was very very happy to come because one of our lads had access to very very good Scotch. I refer to Eric Stone. He was working for a Scotch Whisky firm, and B.J. knew, that he would have liberal lashings of scotch. So, the next morning, old B.J. had had a very very heavy night and so had the Mortar Platoon, but, when B.J. was on parade, if all you chaps remember, it was a parade and you had to stand there like grenadiers, you could not let anything worry you at all, you just had to stand there at attention. If a bloke dropped, old B.J. said, "take his name". So this particular Saturday morning the Mortar Platoon was very very restless. They were very restless. Anyhow we were dismissed at last and came back to the company lines where Major Johnston lined us all up before he dismissed us. He said, "The C.O. is very, very disgusted with movement in the ranks. I realise the flies are very very bad." He said, "If a fly gets in your eye" - and just at this particular time everybody on parade saw this particular fly take two or three loops and land right in the middle of Major Johnston's eye - like that (Snowy demonstrating its flight with his finger). Major Johnston was standing at attention and said, "If a fly gets in your eye (and snowy enacted the scene standing at attention and blowing upwards with the lower lip thrust out to direct the breath upwards – Puff – Puff - Puff) blow it off, don't brush it off". GEORGE CLARK came to life, where he was talking to Vi, and said "Ladies and Gentlemen. This is no small occasion to say a few words for old Phil. Phil and I have been associated for many many years and I suppose our first encounter was at the Manly Day Boys. I had one pip on my shoulder then, I think and what I knew about machine guns, was virtually nothing and Phil knew it all. I was supposed to try to tell Phil what to do and Phil was telling me what to do all the time and in no time he told me that he belonged to the Bank of Australasia (as it was then) whereas I belonged to another Bank, and in the Bank he was a much senior fellow than I, and here I was, now, though much junior to Phil, over him. But I held him in great respect, and all through our association in the Army, you have had that respect, Phil. "After we came back Phil went down to Melbourne in his Bank, and it seemed in no time I followed and Phil invited me to his place for dinner. Well, I had been led astray that afternoon, so that I got to Phil's place a bit late, but I had learnt about those chlorophyll tablets in those days, you ate those, your tongue went green and there was no smell of alcohol. Anyhow, as I said, (continued George) I became delayed, I was about half an hour late, I rolled in and Phil said "Here he is Bloody George Clark. He's late as usual and he's come in here full as a goog and he smells like new mown hay". "Anyhow, Phil has been one of those persons to have had the capacity to organise people and get things done. He was my copy book sergeant major. He knew how to mother his troops and then, he would roar the tripe out of them, if they stepped out of line. Phil did just this in the banking world too, as he has done here. Not only that, he knew how to handle tools. He has been one of those chaps, who have had the facility to be able to use his hands as well as to organise people. He helped me build my home in Melbourne. Old Phil came out and he would organise me. I would be the holder of timber and this and that and Phil would be sawing timber up at this end and that end, and in no time we had the place looking a bit more respectable. Phil, not only for that are we grateful, we did not mind you coming and helping us, but, what we did object to, was that we had our first children down in Melbourne. Phil came to visit Fifi, my wife in hospital, and on his way there, blow me down, but he let some possums loose in my place. I had grapefruit there and in no time these ruddy possums were eating my fruit. (To this charge, Phil interjected, 'I couldn't get rid of them anywhere else'.) George continued, "Anyhow Phil, it has been a very happy association and we are very pleased to see you looking so well and I know, that if ever I want a clue in the executive side on how to fix this or that, Phil is the man to tell me how to do it. Phil and Vi too, "his old Violet" as he calls her. She was always looking after us and she had a lot to put up with. Anyhow, Phil, All the best to you and thanks for what you have done for all of us." STAN ARNEIL was forced to his feet by Garry Evans, who reckoned that no one was better fitted to acknowledge Phil's contribution to the Association than Stan, as the first Editor of Makan. Stan said, "Ladies and Gentlemen. At my age, I always remember one thing. Death comes to every person. Life is so scarce. As each day comes we should do our best in that day and enjoy every minute of it. Tomorrow, that day is gone. It is right that we should make the best of the advantages that come our way when they do occur. One of the advantages I have had, is to know Phil and his wife, Vi, and I actually knew his wife, long before I knew Phil. At one time, not knowing Phil as well as I knew Vi, I was sick in hospital, married to a nice girl and living, like most of us in those days, in one room. Phil and Vi came to the hospital to see me and then went to our one room, with Dorothy, and before I knew where I was, I was out of hospital, in a nice little flat, in the district in which I now live, and from that day it made all the difference to my whole life. Just one little thing, a gesture which Phil and Vi helped me. I did enjoy their friendship. I did think it was a terrific job on their parts just being around. It is an example which they have shown to other people and which they always will. Myself, I am grateful for having known them." GEORGE WINCHESTER "George, by George, as most of you men know I was one of the very newest new chums who arrived in Malaya, three or four weeks, prior to the fall of Singapore and my first acquaintance with Phil was, really, when I heard a strident voice after we arrived back at Selarang Barracks after the march from Singapore and I heard this voice say, 'My blokes will not be bloody moved, any bloody moment, until they find a bloody home.' That was the Company Sergeant-Major of C Coy and I thought, I haven't met this individual and I hadn't, because very much a new chum, but at that time I was only allowed two or three days to get to know him, because, I think, it was on the fourth or fifth day I had trodden on the toes of a Major Lloyd of the Australian Army Service Corps and I was sent in to Singapore with one of the first working parties, so it was not until we returned some 12 months later, that I got to know Phil, really well, as a member of C Coy. It was my privilege. I repeat, it was my privilege, to know him over there. But, I will never forget those words, those positive, directive words, that his men - would not - any longer - be pushed around - by anyone- And By God, he meant it. They were not pushed around. They remained there, until along came the rest of the 2/30th. Phil, you were so positive. I can say no more." LADY GALLEGHAN wrote afterwards, that she regretfully, had to leave, before all the speeches were made, but she says Phil deserved them all; with so many others, she has been indebted to Phil for the magnificent work he has done in producing Makan for so many years, and that through this magazine the 2/30th has been bound together over the years. JACK FELL has added his tribute to Phil in saying in his last letter, "Along with practically everyone else who read the last issue of the 'Makan', I was sad to learn that our unpaid Editor, copy boy, printer's devil etc. was stepping down from the myriad duties, that he has carried out with distinction for so many years. "We all know, what a fine job Phil has done for our Association and we will miss his breezy style of writing, that has made Makan the best magazine of its kind anywhere. "Over the years, this publication has improved in its quality, and its arrival is eagerly awaited and read by all members of the family. One of the best features is the fact that it keeps everyone in touch with one another, and is of great value to those of us in the country." JACK continues with his news, "I have not long returned from my annual leave, some of which was spent at Coolangatta and some on the north coast. I called in at Ballina RSL Club on my way to Coolangatta. I contacted "Snow" Hampton at the Club, but was not able to spend much time with him. He is the Treasurer of the Club and was involved in a conference with the Directors to consider the purchase of more pokies. We spent the night with Norm and Raema Watkins, and left early on Saturday morning for Coolangatta, where I was to take part in the bowling carnival conducted jointly by the N.S.W. Bowling Greenkeepers' Association and the Gold Coast Greenkeepers. We had almost a week there and left Coolangatta in the wee small hours calling in and having breakfast with Norm and Raema. We had a week at Coffs Harbour and had tea with Joe and Norma Veivers. Son, David is following in Joe's footstep a and was a member of the High School football team, which at that time was about to play a semi-final. Daughter, Kathy was most disappointed at not being able to take part in the ballet section of the Eisteddfod, as she was just recovering from an appendix operation. On the way back, we stayed also for a weekend with Jack and Una Clune at Taree. Still having some holidays left I made a somewhat rash statement, that I would return and help him erect some stables for Una's horses. This I did, but I was somewhat dismayed to see the size of the posts that he had had cut for corner posts. They were about 11' long and about 15" in diameter. As it had been raining, the digging of the holes presented no problem. However, erecting the posts was a different story. By dint of much struggling and grunting we managed to get them up. After the effort of standing the posts up, it would have been possible to cut washers off a certain part of our anatomy. Vera and Una had to play nurse to one of Una's young horses, when it cut itself on the barbed wire fence. Shortly after returning from holidays, we had the pleasure of entertaining Ted and Cetress Rickards from Mungindi. My wife and I had met Ted, some time ago, at Scone Bowling Club, where we were playing bowls, and extended to him an invitation to spend part of his next holidays with us. We were delighted, when he rang, one evening, to ask whether the offer was still open, and we had no hesitation in repeating the offer, which he accepted. They spent a week with us, during which. time we took the opportunity to go to the P.O.W. Reunion at Ballina. However in between times on the evening following Ted's arrival, he was a guest of the Wangi Lions Club at their monthly dinner. This was in the nature of a "thank you" for the hospitality offered to Wangi Lions, when they visited Mungindi recently. At the dinner Ted found a set of car keys, on the floor of the hall, close to him and handed them to the chairman to find an owner for them. Much to Ted's embarrassment the keys turned out to be his and he was duly fined 20c for this misdemeanour. One of the members of Wangi Lions Club who had heard Ted recite some of his poems was instrumental in having him invited to be interviewed on the local T.V. station, NBN 3. Unfortunately for Ted, he was not able to see the broadcast, as it was shown on the Wednesday night that he left here to return home. We were happy to have them stay with us and were very sorry to see them leave. We hope to have the pleasure of their company again. As I said, earlier, we all went up to Ballina to the Far North Coast Reunion there on 15th Aug. Leaving home during Friday afternoon we travelled as far as Taree, where once again we were made most welcome by Jack and Una. Ted and I visited Bill Newton in the Manning District Hospital, where he is recovering from a heart attack. He had been in the intensive care unit for nearly a week, but I am amazed to say that he is on the mend. With Jack as an extra passenger in the car we set out early on Saturday morning for Ballina. The usual stop was made at Coffs Harbour to see Joe and Norma, and a very disappointed Joe informed us that this date clashed with the football grand final, in which his son was playing, and Joe was committed to go to the game, then to entertain the young players at a barbeque after the game. A short respite, and we took off again for Ballina, with the Ballina R.S.L. as the first stop. However there was no one at the Club whom we knew as they had worked all morning, decorating the hall and had gone home for a well earned rest. After having lunch we went to Norm and Raema Watkins to find out, where they had booked us in. After a shower and change there, we attended a short wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial Baths (the rest of Jack's account of the dinner appears on page 16 with comments of our other correspondents). After a lot of the usual earbashing at the dinner we returned to the motel. We did not stay as late as we would have like because we were pretty tired after travelling most of the day. We left Ballina about 8 am next morning and once again called in on Joe and Norma at Coffs. A very proud Joe informed us, that his son's team had won the grand final. After a few drinks at West Coffs Bowling Club we set off again to spend the night at Taree. Jack concluded his letter with an enquiry about the Annual Bowls Day between the Association and Bankstown R.S.L., see page 3 of last Makan, and Kevin Ward had answered his enquiry in the meantime. ("Who else will saddle up on 17th Oct? See p2) JIM WEBSTER - MEREWETHER NSW Jim had some good news and some bad news to give me when writing in. He has had the misfortune to lose his dear wife who has been his companion for nigh on 60 years; the true blow fell on 20th August last, she being laid to rest the day before his birthday on 24th August, when he would have commemorated his 78th birthday, and I have expressed to him the sympathy, which I knew you would all share with me, and feel for him in this sad loss. Jim's good news was that he had been the recipient of "Rotary Award of the Year" and that he, naturally, was pleased with this recognition by such a body, and best of all, in the circumstances, that his wife had known that he had received the honour. He first gave me just the bald statement of having been given the award and did not elaborate. I asked one of my scouting friends, who had been President of Parramatta Rotary, what might be the significance and he explained that there were 3 types: (a) if you were young it could mean an award of a benefit for the receiver in his/her education; (b) the receiver could be someone who had carried out outstanding public service for the community; or (c) someone could have made a donation of $1,000 or more to Rotary and would have nominated a certain person to be the receiver of an award. Jim fits in the second category, happily. He responded to my plea for more information, because I felt, before he even told me that it must have been for reasons connected with the second type. My very words to him were, "Please give me some of the details of the reason they gave you the Award. It must have been for some good deed or deeds of worthwhile citizenship and I congratulate you on their recognition of it." So Jim wrote, "Just get yourself a can of beer a comfortable chair and listen to a great big SKITE." Far from that is the story which he has unfolded, rather is it the story of one whom we should all be proud to have as a mate in the 2/30 Bn Association, and I hope you will acknowledge to him the same tribute I have given him. First his family history: "I came to Australia in 1926 after serving with the 11th HUSSARS (famous as the regiment that did that famous charge of the 'Light Brigade at Balaclava' during the Crimean War). I came to this country with my wife and three sons and one daughter. "I first made friends with B.J. in the late 20's as Pipe Major of the Band that led his Bn on all Anzac Parades. "Unknown to the Bn I was a personal friend of B.J. both in civil and military affairs before the war and was transferred from the 2/26th Bn to the 2/30th Bn at his express wish. "Now let me tell you about the 'Rotary Award'. I was given this for my services to various civil and military duties which I have done for the Newcastle area for over 50 years. "I have taken part in Anzac Services as a bandmaster or as a solo piper at the dawn services for about 50 years. "I arranged the civic receptions for various great men who have come to this city, such as Sir Kingsford Smith after his flight across the Pacific; British Army Personnel from Singapore in 1940; General Doolittle of the U.S. Air Force after the war. "I formed the Police Boys' Club Pipe Band 22 years ago and assisted in the formation of their Brass Band, which has just returned from a tour of England and Europe. “I have been honoured before by various other organisations. I was given a Certificate of Merit from the R.S.L. for my services at various military parades. I am a Life Governor of the Police & Citizens Boys' Club; Life Member of the Newcastle R.S.L. Pipe Band. "While I served with the 2/30th Bn in Malaya, I had two sons also serving with the R.A.A.F. in the war, and my wife did her own little bit by serving in the canteens for our soldiers, Australian British and American. "We were very proud to have served this country and we only did what we thought was worthwhile for such a great country, of which we were very thankful, for what we got from it. "I was always proud to be part of the A.I.F. and of the 2/30 Bn in particular. "Well, Alex, I suppose your can of beer is empty but I hope I have given some pleasure. "My wife did live to enjoy all these awards, that I received and always felt that we were only doing our duty. "I am a very proud man to have raised a good family of four generations in Australia and have improved the strain by all being married to 'Aussies'." APOLOGIES FROM THE EDITOR (1) GARRY EVANS has pointed out to me, that I was wrong in describing him as "present Captain of Strathfield Golf Club". Accordingly I retract with apologies, but, he is still a good golfer after all. In order to put the record straight, Garry says, that he was Captain at Cumberland Golf Club, of which he was a member for 22 years, but, he is only a member at Strathfield Golf Club, of which he has been a member for 5 years now. (2) OUR NORTHERN CORRESPONDENT has also asked me to make it clear that the message and flowers, which were sent from the Far Northern Rivers Reunion to Phil and Vi on 15th August were not only from the Northern Coasters but also from the boys and wives from the other areas, who were in attendance, and that the widows were also included in both. Please accept my apologies. I will be only too happy to put the record straight, if I ever do make any booboos in the future A.D. AUSTRALIA SINGAPORE MALAYSIA ASSOCIATION Lady Galleghan has said, that there were many applicants for the 2 scholarships, being provided by the above Association to honour B.J. - more than 80, and all of a very high standard indeed. The Sun Herald of 19th Sept. reported that a young woman doctor and a university lecturer had won the first awards, the 1976 Sir Frederick Galleghan Awards of the Association, and that they are Dr. Sarala Divakaren of the General Hospital, Singapore, and Mr. Mohamed Iqbal bin Kuppa Pitchai of the University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur and that they will both visit Sydney. George Gough reports, that he found out something about B.J. that he thinks, has not been mentioned in Makan before and that is the presentation by Lady Galleghan, to the Royal. N.S.W. Lancer Regiment, for display in their Memorial Museum, situated in Linden House within the unit's barracks at Parramatta, of “B.J.’s blue work dress and red cap". The exhibit is set up in a showcase with appropriate detail of its history on a card. George feels that this donation was a very fine gesture on Lady Galleghan's part, and says this is the oldest Regiment of the C.M.F. He believes that the Regt. is very proud of the exhibit. 2/15th FIELD REGIMENT HISTORY Mr. F.N. Hogan, Secretary of the 2/15th Field Regt. Association, reports that members of their Association are engaged in preparing a history of their Regt., in action, from the time of its first gun firing at Gemas to Capitulation of Singapore, and the dispositions and reconnaissances of its various batteries. He says that they are not dealing with the P.O.W. experiences as they feel that they have been adequately covered in other publications, but their history is meant to help make a better picture of the different components of the 8th Division roles in Malaysia and on Singapore Island, than has been possible up to the present. The production of this history will not be left to a small few. Their method is to gather together in seminars, all those able to do so, setting aside a whole day; they know that folks memories have tended to fade, but, relating of anecdotes by one, helps others remember the scenes and the action and hence they are enabled to contribute to the full story. No doubt too it is an aid to a knitting together of their members, as I would presume, that the victuals for the day would have been the result of a good appreciation of requirements by members and wives beforehand. CAN YOU HELP, PLEASE? (1) We have not copies of all the "Makans" on file. If anyone has copies of the following issues, could you lend them to me for copying and return please, or, if you do not want them returned, indicate to me that I may retain them. AD. Nos. 1-36, 38-47, 50, 53-55, 59 and 60, 64, 68 and 69, 71, 83, 92, 95, 97, 99, 103, 118, 121 and 122, 124-126, 130-134, 137, 138; 142-165, 173 (2) One of our chaps has asked, if anyone has a copy of our Battalion history, "Galleghan's Greyhounds", or knows of someone, who may not now want to keep a copy which they have. His own copy was in a writing desk, which was completed covered by flood water in the abnormal flooding in south east Queensland a few years ago, and was completely ruined, being just a mass of soggy pulp after the time it was underwater. Please let me know, if you may be able to help and I shall pass the information on to him. AD. 8TH DIVISION A.I.F. NATIONAL MEMORIAL – BATHURST MEMORIAL SERVICE - 15th AUGUST 1977 About 50 former members of the 8th Div from Bathurst, Oberon, Orange, Rockley and other district centres attended some with their wives, at the Memorial Service on 15th August. Two Bathurst men, Captain Joe Pickup, and Cpl Peter Wellington of the 2/19 Bn laid a wreath on the Memorial and Mr. Jack Manuel and Mr. Col Watson, Pres and Sec of Bathurst R.S.L. also placed a floral tribute to 8th Div members who did not return to Australia on the Memorial. A prayer was offered by Padre Harry Robinson. Capt Jack Bennett E.M., President of the 8th Div. National War Memorial Committee, said that one more attempt will be made to stage an 8th Div. Reunion at Bathurst next year, despite the fact that members of ranks on parade were short in numbers. Colonel Anderson MC VC, now 80 yrs of age, was not able to attend the service on medical advice, and Jack Bennett in mentioning this - in relation to the holding of a Div Reunion on 14/8/77 - said that, although it might be difficult to get the Division there in any strength, because the majority of them have reached the end of their term, they still held their heads high. If 100 or more of the Division were to indicate interest in such a Reunion an attempt to hold it would be made. MID NORTH COAST Ex-P.O.W. ASSOCIATION REUNION This Reunion was held this year at Kempsey on 15th Aug. and was very successful with an attendance of about 100 including wives and official guests. Guest speaker being F. Casley - State President N.S.W. Ex P.O.W. Association. Slim de Grey was also present to entertain and has not lost any of his old talent. Proceedings commenced with a march to the Cenotaph for a wreath laying ceremony, led by a band, which included a number of very young players with instruments almost as big as themselves, however they did a good job and added much to the occasion. Harry Griffis in providing this report, said that 2/30 was not well represented this year, probably due to others the same day or the next day. Scotty Wallace was there from Kempsey looking in pretty good health; Don and Monica Schumacher from Newcastle; Bruce Campbell and Jack Conn from Port Macquarie. NEWS, VIEWS, AND WHOs WHOs RAY SIMMONS - formerly WYOMING now BEXLEY NSW - BHQ Ray advises that his projected move from Wyoming so that he might be near his daughter took place in the last week of August. He comments that he wants his change of address noted because he'd "just hate to miss out on Makan". DAVE TATE – GARRADUNGA, QLD - HQ COY Dave has sent in, to meet his Makan subs, a cheque on which the amount is such that it seems he does not want the new Makan Editor to be on his back until halfway through the 1980's BUT nary a skerrick of news about himself. Well the new Editor like Phil cannot take that, so what about it Dave? Come on and put pen to paper for us and this applies to all. Makan depends on all of you to write in and tell us something of how life is treating you now. JIMMY WALSHE - ST. IVES NSW - HQ COY Jimmy is another one who seems short of words to tell us how he is getting on. While he does say that he hopes that the new Editor will keep up the good work and sends his kind regards to all the boys; that is all, except to tell a change of address. Come on now Jimmy, what's news? DES DUFFY - ROCKDALE - B COY Ivy wrote in that Des is no correspondent these days, as he is almost blind, but that he sends his best wishes for the Association and will try to get to the Annual Reunion, if his friend of the 2/18th who usually drives him to any place he has to visit, can make it for the night. ALICE LARKIN – EVANS HEAD (Widow of Stan, B COY) Alice says, that they were very proud in Evans Head to have the R.S.L. Women's Auxiliary Annual Meeting for the Far North Coast held at their local R.S.L. Club. They entertained 152 women and had a very enjoyable day. Alice has been very busy with her father, who is 90, in and out of hospital, in the few weeks just prior to writing. GEORGE LISTER – MUMMULGUM via CASINO - B COY Alice Larkin, who is George's sister, reports that he is a very proud grandfather with a little grand-daughter 12 months old. ALAN CHARLTON - FIGTREE NSW - HQ COY Alan penned a brief note (between looking after his wife Yvonne, who had a bad dose of the 'flu) to advise that A.A. (Bob) Martin was going into Yaralla for an urgent operation on his left eye for glaucoma. Kevin Ward has since reported Bob being in Yaralla. TOM O'SCOTT - formerly EAGLE JUNCTION QLD. now HOLLAND PARK QLD Tom, who was not a member of the Battalion, but has been a subscriber to Makan for some years now, advises that his wife works at a place for old servicemen, and now Tom has adopted the practice of giving her the Makan when he has finished reading it, so that she can leave it at the home for any there to read. He says that he does not know, if any 2/30 Bn men are in the home. (There may be Tom, as, although our Battalion was formed in NSW and originally held only NX numbers, except our Vic Gordon, NGX 1, CSM B Coy, reinforcements in Malaya were rushed up to us at Simpang Rengam and later, of a mixture of the reinforcements, who had left Australia, grouped to be reinforcements for other Battalions, so that we acquired quite a few Queenslanders, and, although they were given the opportunity in Changi to transfer out to their parent unit and several did, some elected to remain with the 2/30th. The Home is at Caboolture about 28 miles from Brisbane on the main Northern Highway. LEN CLAVAN - TINTENBAR NSW - HQ COY Wyn reports that Len is quite pleased with the result of the operation on his hand last May and so is his M.O. She says, that Len has had Dupuytren contractions of both hands for some years and one hand was becoming worse with tendons drawing the fingers into claws, but since the operation the hand is almost straight. Fortunately he was only in hospital 3 days and off work 6 weeks and is able to carry on working as usual and is looking forward to warmer weather to calm his osteoarthritis down a bit. SINGAPORE CALLS AGAIN GRAHAM McLEOD journeyed to Singapore recently with his landmarks somewhat the same as we all did on 29th July 1941, but with the difference that he went to Perth by air and from there to Singapore direct, by a smallish liner, the Kota Singapura, which rolled abominably in a beam sea, which had the result of clearing a good proportion of the passengers from the dining area, but Graham was so hardy, he was able to have the pick of the good “makan". (A canny Scot?) He reports that prices have escalated in Singapore even in the space of 2½ years since he was last there and accommodation has now become prohibitively dear in the better hotels. Graham made a pilgrimage to Kranji. It was a typical Singapore day; clouds high and the sun stinking hot. He went out by bus and found the place deserted except for a pair of cruising police in a black Volkswagen. He says, "They looked at me suspiciously; I smiled back engagingly; they left me alone." His impressions of the place are best put in his own words: "In one aspect I was disappointed with Kranji Memorial. I don't know how many graves there were, but it seemed to me there should have been a lot more. Then I stumbled on the explanation. There's an inscription on one wall of the very simple but impressive monument and it says (in effect) that it was not possible to bring everyone to the place as the dead had been scattered over such a wide area. It makes sense. On the walls are the names of over 24,000 who either fell in action or who died in imprisonment. I sat in the shade, thinking. It was quite silent and the only movements were those of the gardeners, as they patiently weeded the beds around the headstones. The lawns are beautifully mowed and an emu parade would be a complete waste of time. There's just nothing out of place. In the distance, across the strait I could make out the big tower, that we were too polite to shell and the Japanese too practical not to use as an O.P. General Yamashita is said to have been quite impressed by the view that he got of us. In the heat and haze rising over the strait, the outline of the tower was hazy and indistinct. I tried to establish just where the Battalion position was, as we awaited the assault. I know it must have been quite near but there wasn't anything I could recognise. I tried to find 2/30 Bn graves but I could not. But there is row upon row of 2/19 and 2/29 Bn headstones, most of them dated at about the time of the Muar/Bakri disaster. And Indians! Here was the evidence of how they had been chopped to pieces. The RAAF, RAF and RNZAF are also heavily represented, together with the Navy. I know it does not help much to those who lost relatives in Malaya and Singapore, but, for those, who will never go to the Kranji, I can assure them, those men lie in dignity and honour." The next place of memories was Changi, not the prison, but the village. As he says, "If you will bear in mind that I left for Borneo in July 1942, the prison obviously doesn't mean as much to me as it would to the chaps, who existed there. It’s still a sullen grey pile, sinister and gloomy. I understand that business has been brisk to the point that the joint is full and they're not keen on visitors. However Changi village had changed. It is apparently prosperous, that is of course if you turn and look at the shop side of the street. On the other side they have knocked down most of the buildings, so that the place looks like a disaster area. At any rate they have built quite a nest of shops in two big blocks with flats above. It's spacious and airy, and, whilst he got the impression that there is a sort of overkill, the shopkeepers assured him that business is O.K. Graham patronised one of the joints for lunch. He said to the Indian character that he would like a nice mild curry, but he must have thought Graham said "wild" (you know it, you're gasping, tears come to your eyes and you want liquid down your throat to ease the pain) but all Graham could get, as there was no fire extinguisher handy to drown his agony, was a bottle of Fanta Orange. His pilgrimage then lead him back to Birdwood Camp. It's gone but he could make out where it had been. The playing area is now a site for the Changi Aircraft Development Authority and largely covered with buildings. The camp is now a loosely settled housing project of substantial buildings, with a pleasant road winding through the trees. He was able to make out the site of Bn HQ and also of the Officers' Mess, where he says, "We used to sit on the verandah and watch the Poms sweat themselves into a lather and I recall George Ramsay saying once, that, in his opinion, "dominoes was a damned silly game," The dhobi lines was still vacant ground and the little stream there still runs. He recalled, amongst his memories, the day when the 15" guns went off scaring hell out of everyone, and B.J. ticking him off for not telling him, that there was a practice shoot scheduled. He concludes, "Well, there's no trace of our ever having been there. Now it is a pleasant shady place; quiet and undisturbed by the traffic along the Changi Road." Of course he could not pass Selarang Barracks, he talked his way into it. They could not understand his pronunciation, it's "Sel-A-Rang". He had to wait in the guard house to get an interview with the duty officer. Inside, everyone was hot and sweaty. They had just completed a thorough round of the assault course and everyone was fed up and wanted to get to the tong. Eventually he made his purpose clear. "All I wanted was to have a look around and maybe they'd let me take a few photos for my friends back home. Photos! No! Photos were OUT. But they agreed to let me go around escorted by two 2nd Lieuts. As I wandered about with them, recognising place after place, they thawed and became very friendly. I started to tell them about the Barrack Square incident (although I hadn't been there at the time and we had our own version in Borneo) but they were ahead of me. They took me into the Officers' Mess and there, on the wall, is the same photo that's in Galleghan's Greyhounds. As I wandered around the figures from the past seemed to re-appear. Some dead, some still living. There was the balcony on the floor of the south west building, where I used to sleep. There it had been, that I, along with everyone else, suddenly became aware of the danger of standing abruptly, which caused the blindness and the vertigo. At the other end of the balcony Harry Head used to pick over his rice so carefully, making sure there was no dirt in it. There I'd sit in despair, staring out across the railing at the clouds over Singapore city and wonder where we had gone so wrong. I remembered us getting some evil looking tobacco and Bill Clayton, bravely being the guinea pig, to see what it was like. After the first draw he sat there, eyes protruding, as the fumes seared his lungs, until finally he was able to cough. It was pretty strong stuff." On the way back to Singapore, as he says, he seemed to remember someone telling him that, towards the latter part of the Bn's stay in Changi, the Japs had an airstrip started towards the northern end of the Selarang Barracks. Well, for those, who may be interested, it is very much a going concern (but it isn't to be confused with the International Airport at Paya Lebar). Part of the strip extends across the Changi Road on which there are boom gates. His bus came to a heavy halt as the boom was lowered and an aircraft took off, the driver saying something, which Graham interpreted as disgust, sitting there morosely, until the plane was out of the way, for the opportunity to proceed, and it was a couple of miles further on before he began smiling again. Night life? Yes, he did go out. One night, being at a loose end he decided to go to the Pasar Malam (Night Market) in Cantonment Road, but he didn't make it. No, it was not that he was not mugged and yes, a "lady of the night" did make, what he felt, was an improper suggestion. But those were not the real reasons. The Government was not happy about those markets and they are now out of business. "DEATH RAILWAY REVISITED" This was the heading on a newspaper cutting, Clarrie Burgess (A Coy) and "A" Force, received from Rex Bowman (27 Bde Workshops). It said, "35 members of the (British) Far East P.O.W. Federation at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery paid tribute to those of their comrades they swear will never be forgotten. "Yesterday at the War Cemetery these 35 ex Ps.O.W., who belonged to all walks of life, and had travelled halfway round the world at their own expense, especially to visit the two cemeteries (the other one at Chungkai) gathered to pay respect to the fallen, to remember, but never to forget, forget that is the spirit that kept them alive through the ordeal, that claimed 24,000 Ps.O.W. in the attempt to bridge the 250 miles of railroad and road through thick jungle in record time. "At 10:30 am in the pretty 'Kamburi' Cemetery the small group with two war widows, a son whose father died there, along with the British Ambassador, his wife and some of the embassy staff, joined in a short service in front of the simple white cross in the cemetery. "The 30 years had set its own seal - from the area they only knew as rugged countryside and jungle - to the peace and quiet of the cemetery, which one P.O.W. with tears in his eyes compared with an English churchyard. "The service was conducted jointly by the Anglican Vicar of Christ Church in Bangkok and by the Roman Catholic Priest of Ban Pong, Father John Uliana, who, those who had been there 30 years ago, remembered as the young priest he then was, bringing some of the essential necessities and spiritual uplift to the Ps.O.W. "There was hardly a dry eye as two young soldiers from the Royal Thai Army played the "Last Post" on bugles. A lesson was read, a requiem was sung by young Thai students and the "old soldiers" remembered by laying wreaths of blood red poppies on the memorial - they reiterated their famous oath - "At the going down of the sun and in the morning – we shall remember them." "The service was short and poignant, and the gathering was sad in a happy sort of way. "Then down to the bridge itself, where they joined a flotilla of boats to take them to the cemetery across the river at Chungkai then back to the bridge for lunch. Back to 1976 index or Main Index |
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