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Makan No. 243
Oct/Nov 1978

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

Subscription Rate: $1.50 per Year

Registered for Posting as Periodical: Category A

 

COMMITTEE

Reunions To Come

HAVE YOU BOOKED ALREADY WITH JACK BLACK? or are YOU one of those, WHOM WE HAVE TO REMIND?
FRIDAY NIGHT, 10th NOVEMBER is our own 2/30 Bn REUNION At the PUBLIC SERVICE ASSOCIATION CLUB, 515 Kent St. City
SMORGASBORD DINNER at 7pm. CHARGE $6.00

Gather at the Club beforehand, as suits, to meet old friends.

Jack Black reports that the list of those booked in includes the following, but Jack asks that you not leave it till the evening of the Reunion to let him know that you are coming. Ring him in the daytime NOW. He will accept your money there. BUT, please, do let him know beforehand that you will be there.

If your names NOT on the list RING JACK BLACK NOW and BOOK IN. If your name is there BUT NOT YOUR COBBER's Ring him AND STIR HIM TO COME.

Steve Allardice

Sid Grounds

Sid Musgrove

Stan Arneil

Les Hall

"Kingie" Martin

Eric Arps

Sammy Hall

Reg Napper

George Aspinall

Con Hedwards

Stuart Peach

Jack Black

"Dutchy" Holland

Alan Penfold

Fred Bladwell

Neil Huntley

Alan Pryde

Lyn Booth

Fred Johnston

Frank Rampling

Ron Chipps

Noel Johnston

Nev Riley

George Clarke

Johnny Kreckler

Phil Schofield

Alex Dandie

Mick Lovell

Wally Scott

Don Devey

Ron McBurney

Billy Senior

Bill Ennis

Max McClelland

Ray Simmons

Bertie Farr

"Bluey" McIver

"Snowy" Stevens

Bruce Ford

Gordon McKnight

Eric Stone

Harley Forrester

Bob McLaren

Lloyd Stuart

Ron Foster

Jack Maclay

Arch Thorburn

"Joe" Geoghegan
and friend

Alan McNickle

Kevin Ward

Jack Greenwood

"Snow" Mason

“Doc" Wilson

"Porky" Moore

"Darby" Young

 

I forgot Jackie Boss in getting them alphabetical.

Some doubtfuls are:- Garry Evans, Andy Hyslop, Bruce Upcroft.

Apologies from:- Ron Maston and Ray Rickards (Out of State)

George Aspinall will be showing that part of his film of the Battalion and Association doings on that night, so that you may see what he has done to date.

The showing of the film will begin at 6 o'clock in the Basement of the P.S.A. Club. It will run through in about 20/30 minutes. This will allow you to move upstairs to the bar about 6.30p.m. and be ready to move to the tables set aside for our Bn gathering at 7p.m.

George wishes to explain how he wants cooperation from all whenever you see him with his camera, so that he can take the natural photo, "Candid Camera" in type, without any self-consciousness, stiffness or posing. There are times too, when he wants to photograph objects, buildings, memorials and the like, with some Battalion members and relations, in order to make the film topical for our Battalion, but, without a blocking out of whatever it may be, that he is photographing; also to conserve the film, which is costly to buy.

Subscriptions For 1979

The Executive decided at its last meeting to keep the Subscriptions for 1979 at the SAME RATES as they have been for some years past.

Where payment is made annually the Membership Sub: 50c + "MAKAN" Sub. $1.50, a total of $2.00.
Where a member has paid a life subscription, the "MAKAN" Sub of $1.50 is payable,

The usual notes appropriate to each case, advising the situation for each member, are unable to accompany this copy of "MAKAN". You may expect to receive them next time.

Andy Hyslop - Umina Beach, 2257 - Bn HQ. I Sect.
Andy writes, “When 'B.J.' died I was moved to pen a few lines on his passing, but put it away. However, with the passing of time and, looking at it again, I have added a couple more verses and now submit it for "MAKAN", if you feel inclined to publish it.

(Thank you Andy, with the Annual Reunion coming up on the 10th November, it is a very appropriate time to think of the forming of our Battalion at Tamworth and of the man, who, having accepted the task of being its first C.O., moulded it to his standards and led it for its first weeks in battles. A.D.)

Andy has given me some of his Changi sketches, that I am processing, with a view to printing for you later in "MAKAN".

Requiem
(In Memory of Brigadier Sir Frederick Galleghan DSO, OBE, ISO, ED. C.O. 2/30 Battalion A.I.F. 20/11/1940 to 9/2/42)

Galleghan’s gone, the long drive's done
And a soldier sleeps at last;
The bugle and drum will call him no more
Nor the cannon's shattering blast.

How shall we honour now his name,
His glory seal and sign,
Who bore his duty banner-like
Before his only shrine.

With a leader's lonely sacrifice
From the many games of life
He sought within war's solemn fang
The guerdon-crown of strife.

For the discipline of marching feet,
For the rigours of command,
For the use and rule that habit made
When order came to hand;

All these and more he sought and won
In martial merit high -
Today the harsh decrees of war
Are mute, and pass him by.

His spirit shone where the troops marched in
By company and platoon,
In working rig, coming back from a dig,
Or recce under the moon.

And history wrote his epitaph
When battle honours came
To the arms of a famous regiment
That bears the stamp of his name.

Lie gently on him, mother earth,
From dole and pain set free,
And still his fretful earthly cares
In sleep's eternity.

A. Hyslop,

Sungei Gemencheh Bridge - Bronze Plaque - Malaysian Trip.

Any latecomers for this trip will be taken on a waiting list only. Their opportunity of going will be possible, only if some of those, who wrote in and showed interest, have decided not to go; have been told by their doctors that they should not go; or will not have paid their moneys to the Travel Agent by the deadline.

It may even be, that some on the list already might have to be disappointed and turned back; their position depends on availability of accommodation, first on Airways, then at Hotels at evening stop-over towns and cities.

This situation developed because the numbers, who wanted to go rose to 72. I know of three persons, who were advised an medical grounds not to go, so that makes it 69. If all those 69 still wish to go; have paid their money in full to the Travel Agent and there is need to turn some back, the sequence in which the refusal will be made will be, those, last in with the full amount of money, will be the first off and so on, in reverse date order of payment.

We understand everyone has been advised of the position with two letters going out from the Travel Agency to each interested person. The first letter advising that in order to make a reservation an immediate deposit had to be made with the reservation form, included in that letter, filled in and signed.

The second letter nominated a deadline date, by which date the whole of the moneys had to be paid.

As at the date of preparing the copy for this "MAKAN" we were advised that only 38 deposits had been received.

If you want to go the message is loud and clear - Please get your money in, first for reservation, second for payment in full.

We wish all, who may be going, a good trip.

We have seen the published brochure of the trip. It is not very much different from that projected in last issue of "MAKAN".

Considerable help has been given to the Battalion by the former Major of the Federated Malay States Volunteer Forces, now known as Tun Sri Mubin Sheppard. He has made the approaches to the Malaysian Government and to the High Officials in the State of Negri Sembilan, where Gemencheh is situated, very easy.

Other Reunions To Come

It is the ANNUAL REUNION OF NORTHERN RIVERS BRANCH of the Ex-Ps.O.W. ASSOCIATION at GRAFTON on 18th NOVEMBER.

HARRY RHODES says, "This is not the happiest time to remind all Ex-Prisoners of War and Wives of this Annual Reunion. John Korsch and Ian McLaren, with their recent deaths have left a gap, but they will be with us very much in spirit and it is up to us to carry on.

Let me know if you can make it. Everyone is most welcome. Wreathlaying at 5p.m. at Cenotaph. Dinner 6p.m. at the Grafton Services Club.

See you at Grafton on the 18th November."

Reunions Past

BALLINA EX- Ps.O.W. ASSOCIATION REUNION, 12th August.

They never told me how many were there altogether from all Units, but the 2/30 Bn had 32 men, most with their wives and some with their children.

The list shows: Len and Wyn Clavan, Jack and Una Clune, Alex and June Dandie, "Chum" Farley and his wife, "Hoot" and Marjorie Gibson, Tom and Norma Grant, Bruce Greer, "Snow" and Kathy Hampton, Brian and Anne Hayes, "Joe" and Sybil Johnston, "Sluggo" Jones, Jack and Win Korn, Norm Lee, Jock Logan, Jack and Olive Matthews, Jim Morgan, Reg Napper, Fred Newlands with his wife, Bob Newman, Tom Nixon, Harry Riches, Jimmy Small, Ron Sweeney, Joe and Norma Veivers, Kevin & Dorothy Ward, Ege with Dot Wightman, Tom and Norma Wright, Allan and Mollie Venn, Artie and Nancy Power, accompanied by daughter, Helen and her husband, John Perkins, Martie Wallwork with two of his daughters, Helen and Jan and Jan's husband, Ray Cross, Reg Napper's brother Charlie, the adopted Stan and Joyce Scarabellotti AASC, Jim and Vi Crawford and Sid and Joyce Jameson (both 2/18 Bn); in addition Ossie Jackson and Ernie Stratford came along after the Dinner, Ernie saying that he had wanted to come down but not on his own and had rung Ossie to see if he would drive down, and I saw as well Aub Clavan.

Alan Charlton came to the Club in the afternoon, met up with Tom Grant, but because of his ear troubles, the noise being too much for him to suffer, he had not stayed.

Norm and Raema Watkins were absent too. Raema went into hospital in the early part of August, because she had gone into a coma and, although home, was not fit enough for the night out. Norm also had had a blackout in the back yard of his house, so he had to take things easy too.

Proceedings commenced for the Reunion with a short Ceremony at the Memorial, near the baths, for about 50 P.O.W. and 20 wives. All rendezvoused at the R.S.L. Club and the ingredients for a good meal were set out on a table in the centre of the auditorium for folk to help themselves, as they wished, with as many back-ups as they felt able to tackle, with adequate liquids to accompany the food as the evening progressed. The meal, as prepared by the Chef, was certainly up to the standard we had been led to expect, very delightful, but far more than the gathering, could consume.

Your scribe and June had come up from Sydney on the Wednesday night's Moto-Rail with their car, went up to Southport first, and came down from there on the Saturday, called at "Joe" Johnston's home at Knockrow to drop bags and freshen up a bit, but were too late to get to the Wreathlaying at the Memorial, so we went straight to the Club.

Kevin and Dorothy Ward had come up by the Friday night's train; were picked up by "Joe" Johnston at Lismore; he took them to their Motel at Ballina. Brian and Anne Hayes were staying at the same motel and drove them out to Joe's home at Knockrow for lunch, so that they were all in good time for the Ceremony; I was let know later on that everyone expected us at Knockrow on Friday.

As I had been up to the Lismore Reunion in February 1977 I had met many of the men for the first time since leaving Singapore in '43, but there were at least another 7 at this Reunion again not seen since Changi days, and the same thing was experienced at the Taree Reunion on the succeeding Saturday night, so that the trip was worthwhile, as far as I was concerned. Needless to say, it was a first time introduction to a lot of the wives, so that "this is the Editor of “MAKAN"' was common.

There was another gathering of 2/30th and adopted folk at a midday Barbeque at "Joe" Johnston's home on the Sunday after the Ballina Reunion, and, if anything, it gave a greater chance for folk to move from one group to another and, as the Editor had taken the Nominal Roll with him, he was able to answer many queries on what had happened to this one or to that one.

Taree Reunion

The Reunion at Taree was held on the evening of Saturday 19th August.

Jack Fell has provided most of details of this weekend.

"I and Vera stayed with Una and Jack Clune at Mitchell Island. Other house guests of the Clunes were Curly and Beatrice Hardman.

"Joe" Geoghegan and Georgina came up from Sydney for the weekend with "Snowy'" and Evelyn Stevens and were booked in at the Zebra Motel, whilst Alex and June Dandie enjoyed the hospitality of Ted Skuse's home.

Prior to the Reunion all went to the Taree R.S.L. Club for registration of visitors. Following this we marched behind the Taree R.S.L. Pipe Band to the War Memorial, where the wreath-laying ceremony was carried out. Jim Morgan had the distinction of being the only man in step going and coming. Just as well “B.J.” wasn't there.

Another chance for a natter inside the Club again, then, the Ladies' Auxiliary being ready for us, we were served a very nice dinner and, to cap their generosity the Ladies' Auxiliary President announced, that they were not making a charge for the dinner, so that allowed for a greater profit for the Mid-North Coast Branch of the Ex-Ps.O.W. Association. There was no lack of the amber fluid at the Dinner. It flowed almost as fast as it was raining outside.

2/30th Members there were:- Jack Newton, Harry Griffis, Reg Napper, Tom Davis, Jim Morgan, "Snowy" Stevens, Bruce Campbell, Ted Skuse, Arthur Purdon, "Curly" Hardman, Peter Mason, Ray Godbolt, Alex Dandie, Norm Lee, "Joe" Geoghegan, Bob Wells, Jack Clune and myself, Claude Worth, Jack Conn, Dudley Bales (once 2/30th but transferred to 2/15 Arty) and Reg Napper's brother, Charlie. Two absentees, both in hospital, were Bill Newton in Taree Hospital and "Scotty" Wallace in Kempsey Hospital.

Judge Phillip Head (Major Head - Staff Officer - Command 8 Div A.I.F.) was Guest Speaker and Frank Casley, President of the N.S.W. Ex-P.O.W. Association was also an honoured guest.

Judge Head said that "all Ps.O.W. could have had different experiences over there, if the politicians of the day had seen to the needs of the campaign properly.

It stands out that the 8 Div has a unity, that does not exist in other Divs. of the A.I.F.; but that unity was forged by the conditions under which the Division found itself, by friendships formed with those with whom we learnt to share the good and the bad. When we come together in these Reunions, we remember the funny parts.

It is a part of the economics of the world, that we are now economically involved with our enemies, so that we have now to contain our differences, but, let us maintain our memories”.

Judge Head also spoke on civil Prisoners' Aid Association.

Frank Casley acknowledged and thanked the R.S.L. Sub-Branches for the help given to Ex-P.O.W. Association Branches for without it the Ex-P.O.W. Branches would not exist, and asked that members continue to play the same game and keep that happy relationship alive.

Jack Clune was given the part of proposing the toast of the Ladies' Auxiliary and another to the R.S.L. Sub-Branch and R.S.L. Club for the help that had been given.

It was announced that the Mid-North Coast Branch would be holding next year's Reunion at Port Macquarie.

Following the Dinner we went upstairs, where there was a Band playing and some of the more energetic ones joined in the dancing. We were entertained by a very scantily dressed ballet, and judging by the way everyone had their eyes glued to the stage, the bromide is just starting to wear off.

We were entertained also by a very clever ventriloquist, whose final act was the star turn. He appealed for a lady and a gent to come up on the stage and help him. One man came up but all the ladies were too shy. Then he called for another male volunteer, so Norm Lee hopped up. The artist used them as dummies to sing "Heart of my Hearts", and Norm put everything that he had into it; no one had realised what a deep voice he had.

After a very pleasant evening everyone wended their way home, voting it as one of the best Reunions that had been held.

During the course of the evening Jack Clune invited any of the 30th, who were interested, to come out to his place for a B-B-Q on Sunday. Curly said that there would be at least a hundred there, as, in addition to the ones that Jack had invited, Una stood in the foyer and invited another sixty eight.

Sunday morning it was raining, so we dismantled the B-B-Q, that Jack had erected so painstakingly through the week and removed and re-erected it in the now unused dairy. After we had everything set up ready, the clouds cleared away, the sun shone for the rest of the day, but no way were we going to take the B.B.Q. back from where we brought it.

With the help of about two gallons of diesoline we finally had a fire going and we were ready for business, when the first of the guests arrived.

Judging by the amount of tucker that was consumed, I do not think anyone had eaten breakfast. We didn’t run out, but in case we did, we had a couple of live pigs standing by. If the pigs had known that they were all ex-Ps.O.W. next to them, they probably would have taken off like rockets.

Norm Lee was adamant that he could ride a horse, so Una brought up the quietest horse, that she had, an aged mare heavily in foal. Norm was legged up on her back, but the mare refused to budge. Bob Wells thought he could start it by using it's tail as a crank handle. He achieved something, because the mare started but stopped almost as quickly.

Curly revealed unknown talents as a cook but Joe Geoghegan's efforts to get near the stove were frustrated, because no-one wanted the food spoilt.

The party finally broke up, as a lot of people had to go back to work the next day. The last to depart was Norm Lee, we nearly had to pour him into the car.

On behalf of all those who attended the Barbeque, our thanks to Jack and Una Clune for making their property available and to the cooks, Curly and Beatrice Hardman and Vera Fell. Also to one of Jack's mates, Trevor, who did a great job. Also thanks to Jack Clune for looking after the beer supply.

On the way home on Monday, I detoured via Krambach, where Arthur and Clare Buckingham are living, supposedly in retirement. They have been there two years and, in that time, have cleared most of the bracken and rubbish off their 49 acres and erected new fences. Buck said that he always wanted a few acres in the country, so, when he retired, he did just that. I thought that when one retired, one gave work away to a large extent, but Clare tells me that he works from dawn to dark. It doesn't seem to have affected him, because he looks well enough.

We had a fairly eventful weekend and I wasn't sorry to get back home.

8 Div Comrades Remembered at Bathurst, Sunday, 13 Aug. 1978

"The Western Advocate" of Monday, August 14th, printed in Bathurst, shows a picture of the 8 Div Memorial outside the City Hall, with the 8 Div Memorial Committee President, Capt. Jack Bennett, AASC, placing a wreath at this National Memorial on Sunday afternoon, 13th August last.

It was reported in that newspaper that Jack Bennett had said that, because of the combined results of "casualties", age and distance, it may not be possible to hold a major reunion of the 8 Div, 2nd A.I.F. at Bathurst. It was estimated that, of the 17, 000 original members of the 8 Div. now only 3, 000 were left

However, he said, a gathering would continue to be held on the nearest Sunday to Aug. 15 each year for a memorial service at Bathurst.

About 34 former men of the Division and some of their wives supported Mr. Bennett in this ceremony yesterday.

Mr. Bennett said that there had been 7,000 casualties in the Malayan Campaign and, it was understood, that since then a further 7,000 have died; most of them from wounds and other disabilities resulting from war service.

"Today we remember them," he said, "Many of those who do remain are in hospital or unable to travel. The tragic losses in Malaya, Singapore and the Islands, between those places and Australia were not due to any lack in the fighting capacity of the Australian forces opposed to the Japanese, but to deficiencies of the British and Australian Governments, who were responsible for the lack of an efficient defence force.

“Both the British and Australians committed to those regions had no modern armaments, no naval support and only a brave but poorly equipped air force with out of date planes,” he said.

"The fighting forces paid the penalty and the offending politicians got away scot free."

The Mayor (Ald Wardman) addressed the gathering and the ceremony concluded with a prayer offered by Padre Cliff Ussher, a former Padre of the 8 Div.

Those present then adjourned to the R.S.L. Club for afternoon tea.

Riverina Reunion Ex-P.O.W Association - Leeton - 9/9/1978

A report has come in that a group of mostly "D" Company men attended this Reunion with their wives, Norm and Alma King from Golspie, Les and Margaret Parry from Narrandera, "Jock” McKenzie from Leeton, Athol and Thelma Charlesworth from Leura, "Bluey" Gray of Tumbarumba, Brian and Anne Hayes from Parkes, plus there were others and those of you, who are not named must please forgive.

It was a super night, we spent the longer time in the Hall area, where the reunion Dinner was held, dancing and singing, telling jokes and anecdotes by any man, who cared to do so. Our small group finally moved to the R.S.L. Main Room at the end.

Granville R.S.L. Club Ex-Ps.O.W. Night - 20/9/1978

Again only one of the 2/30 Bn turned up, at this annual function, to support Max McClelland. This time “Joe" Geoghegan went along and is as enthusiastic about the night this year as Jack Carey was last year. Joe says that it was a "terrific" Evening.

"I attended with my wife, Georgina, "Max" McClelland and his wife, Heather, and Fred and Kath Lee. Fred was in the Engineers and on "F" Force.

"The night was a great success. The Service and Supper could not be faulted. There were over 100 people there. The initial gathering together about 6.30p.m., the meal commencing 7 to 7.30p.m. After a few speeches the Band took over and the Dancing was enjoyed by all.

"This is an Annual affair of the Granville R.S.L. and this the first time of attempting to make a 'mixed' function of it. Next year it will be on a Friday night, and I feel that it could be kept in mind for a 2/30 Bn Social Night. Joe Geoghegan."

Sick Parade

Kevin Ward advises that those who have been discharged since last report and up to 12/10/78 were:

Keith Chapman, Cecil Dews, Bob Dixon, Des Duffy, Bruce Ford, Sammy Hall, Ack Ack Johnson, Edna Skuse, Scotty Wallace, George Winchester, also Sid Grounds (from St George to convalesce at home.)

In Hospital:
Ray ("Andy") Knox (Tweed District Hosp.), Vince Leonard, Garry Evans (Concord), George Gough (Liverpool), Jack Ellis (Condobolin), Harry Law (other), "Digger" Preen (Gosford)

Last Post

NX26343 Pte Leonard Charles Lansdown - Died 30/7/1978
Lennie was one of the members of the Battalion on its formation at Tamworth. He was in A Company first and was Batman to Captain "Ward" Booth. He transferred to D Company with Capt. Booth, when the latter was appointed to be O.C. that Company on Capt. Melville going to Hospital after Gemas.

Lennie was one of the older men of the Battalion and had the responsibilities of a family, before we sailed for Malaya, in fact he was 79½ yrs of age at his death.

Despite his age, Lennie was not one to shirk his tasks but could be depended upon always. He was one who was often to be called on to assist at any special functions in the Officers' Mess; the mates with him in his hut, could always be expected to be awakened on these occasions, when Lennie came back to his bunk, because he, invariably brought some choice bits to share.

He accompanied the main part of the Battalion, when those men were drafted to "F" Force on "Death Railway" in Thailand. After return to Changi he did not join any more Working Parties.

He was one of the early members of the Association as he joined it on 3/10/46, soon afterwards becoming a Life Member.

It was one thing that could be said for Len, whenever you met him, anywhere and at any time, he always had his friendly smile and a cheerful greeting for you.

War Service and P.O.W. times had taken such a toll of his health, that he was classified as T.P.I.

Early this year we learnt that the Western Suburbs Football Club had presented Len, who was one of their ardent supporters and had been a Social Worker for the Club for about 10 yrs beforehand, with a Life Membership Gold Medal and a Blazer with the Club Badge, and the words "Life Member" on the pocket.

Len regularly took part in the Anzac Day Marches in commemoration of those who had given their lives in building the traditions of Australia. Now he is with them and we, of the Bn who are left, regret his passing and the suffering that he has had in the last few years from cancer.

We mourn with Anne, and their children, Lillian, Gloria, Kitty and William and their families at his passing on to His Maker.

The Battalion was represented at his cremation service by Garry Evans, Joe Geoghegan, Ron McBurney, Jack Maclay, "Snow" Mason and his wife, Win, 'Porky' Moore, Johnny Parsons, Ray Rickards, Ray Simmons and Alex Dandie,

The Western Suburbs Leagues Club was represented by Bill Keato, an Ex-Western Suburbs Full Back.

NX47342 Pte. William Henry Andrew (Bill) Newton - Died 16/9/78
Bill Newton was a member of 7 Section, 18 Platoon, D Company. He did his stint with "F" Force and X1 Tunnelling Party.

He had been a Timber-getter near Krambach before he enlisted; on return from overseas, he worked in a sawmill in Taree, but left that about 1972 to look after his wife, Mary, who was not too well. The record shows that Bill, when in work, after that was only able to do light work, and that one or other was sick or that they were both sick at the same time.

At the time of the Taree Reunion in August last, Bill was in the intensive care ward at Taree Hospital recovering from effects of a heart attack. He was discharged to home, but suffered the fatal attack late in the afternoon of Sat. 16 Sept.

Jack Clune advised us, in Sydney, of his death and made the arrangements on behalf of the Battalion. As well, as Taree men of the Battalion we have been told that Ray and Mavis Godbolt came up from Newcastle, Jim and Margaret Morgan, Jack Conn and Dudley Bale came down from Port Macquarie and, Peter Mason was there from Kendall.

We sympathise with Mary, their children and families in their loss.

NX46619 Cpl. John Donald Korsch - Died 17/9/1978
John Korsch was a Corporal in No 14 Platoon, led by John Parsons, C Company.

He left Changi with "A" Force on 15/5/42 and toiled with building of aerodromes, then on the building of the Burma side of the "Death Railway" through the jungle to link with the section coming up through Thailand.

I have been given an Obituary written in "The Daily Examiner", the local Grafton paper dated Tues. 19 Sept. and with due respect to that Newspaper, I quote: "The death occurred suddenly on Sunday night of a well respected Grafton citizen, Mr. John Donald Korsch.

John Korsch, at the time of his death, was President of the Northern Rivers Branch of the N.S.W. Ex-Ps.O.W. Association (and had been such since first elected in 1971).

As a prisoner of war of the Japanese he was initially in Changi prison camp and later was one of the survivors from those forced to work on the Burma Road and Railway.

A quietly spoken man with a keen sense of humour, he was born on the Queensland Gold Coast. (He gave his N.O.K. on enlist as his Father, Mr. J.F. Korsch of Cudgen) and came to Grafton in 1947.

On his return from World War II, he married and he and his wife, Dulcie, raised a family of 3 sons and one daughter.

He was a loving father and father-in-law of Russell and Kathy Korsch (Armidale), Ken and Sharon Korsch (Urunga), Barry and Bev Korsch (Armidale) and Veronica and Robert Densley (Penrith).

John served a number of terms as president of the Grafton Gem Club, which he also served as Vice-President.

Mr Korsch was intensely interested in Australian gem stones and travelled extensively with his wife, Dulcie, seeking them.

His artistic ability was shown in the landscapes and pictures he made with gem stone pieces.

He was a member of the Grafton Collectors' Club.

John Korsch was also a member of the Grafton Sub-Branch of the R.S.L.

A skilled carpenter and joiner, (he learnt the trade by the help of the CRTS course as part of his rehabilitation after the war) he followed his trade in his own business, until he retired a number of years ago.

As is his wife, John was a strong member of the Anglican Church. The family requests that instead of flowers, donations be made to the Anglican Church or to Grafton Legacy.

The funeral service will be held at Christ Church Cathedral, Grafton, today, Tuesday, at 11 am."

Harry Rhodes alerted us here, in Sydney, by a phone call at first and followed up with a letter, "It is with deep regret that I have to report the death of John Korsch or 17 Sept. John's sudden death came as a great shock to us all and our thoughts and prayers are with Dulcie, sons, Russell, Ken, Barry, daughter, Veronica, and their loved ones.

John's funeral service was held in Grafton Christ Church Cathedral and six members of the 2/30 Bn acted as pall-bearers, Don McKenzie, Ron Sweeney, Jimmy Small, Arthur Roberts, Tom Davis and Harry Rhodes. Other 2/30 representatives were Jack Collins, Bob Newman, Joe Veivers, Jean Winters (Fred's wife), Merle Rockett (Tom's widow) and other Ex-P.O.W. members and wives were also present. A guard of honour was formed outside the Cathedral by Ex-P.O.W. and R.S.L. Members.

It was only on the 5th September that John was re-elected President of the Northern Rivers Branch of the N.S.W. Ex-P.O.W. Association, his term of office in that capacity commencing on the 4th September 1971. John will be sadly missed for his capability and faithfulness as President, his good work generally for the Branch and in particular the carpentry work at Yamba Holiday Cottage, and his inimitable wit as Chairman at Reunion Dinners. Nevertheless John was essentially a humble man and a good mate.

Vale, John. We will remember you."

The record shows that John had been suffering from recurrent ulcer condition by 1968. Outwardly he did not disclose to the general public his troubles, but it was from bleeding ulcers and haemorrhaging in the stomach that he died.

Reg Burbury, now living at Pagewood, 2035 was very sorry to hear of the sad news. When the Division was settling in to P.O.W. life and the University of Changi was established, both John Korsch and Reg Burbury were fellow students in the Art Class conducted by Murray Griffin, and naturally regretted the short time that they had with him. However on "A" Force together, they were able to carry on their sketching, more or less under the very eyes of the guards.

Jack Maclay has commented on those sketches, which John had at home, "they were so true in detail that they take you back to those dark days of ours".

John, himself, has told us, "the original drawings of quite a number were purchased by the War Museum, one stipulation, I made, being that I receive a photo (9"x 6") of each of the ones they took." (in that way John's name will be preserved for posterity and there are seven of them used in the 2/19 Bn History, depicting "A" Force scenes, showing full credit to John and to the Australian War Museum.

The incomparable Stanley Arneil described John and Dulcie to you as parents, "proud of their up-and-coming family. The Korsch's are an example of the kind of Australian family spirit we-like to hear about....representing the responsible and saner side of this day and age.....the solid core of decent people typified by those mentioned above." (Makan No 179 & No 182)

John Korsch and Bill Newton
Les Hall writes, "Both George Stephenson and Arnie Ainsworth were visibly upset, when I gave them the sad news of the passing of John Korsch and Bill Newton.

"Arnie, who was also on "A" Force, knew Johnnie very well. Although many years have passed since they last met, it was, he said, very upsetting to learn of the decease of one so humane and talented.

George and Arnie expressed their sincere sympathy to both families.

I did not know the late Bill Newton very well, but, what I did know of him was all good. My condolences too to his family.

The loss of John Korsch hit me hard. Only a few days prior to his going "beyond the sunset", I had received a letter from him, to which I was about to reply, when told the news.

It was at Mergui, South Burma, the worth of John was proven. The many and countless kindly acts, to those less fortunate than himself, that he so unselfishly carried out, will, I
am sure, never be forgotten, especially by "A" Force survivors.

As far as P.O.W. life is concerned I farewelled John at the 105 Kilo Camp, Burma, when I was sent to the 55 Kilo Hospital Camp. Before we parted company, he handed me quite a few of his sketches, that I value highly. And more so now. My sincere sympathy to his widow, Dulcie, and family. Yours, L.G. Hall."

John Pryde has commented that, of the 98 men of the 2/30 Bn on "A" Force, when the Burma and Thailand ends of the "Death Railway" were joined, they being at what was called the 105 Kilo Camp, there were only 24 still together to move to other camps down along the line to Kanburi, the rest either having died or been sent back to a so-called "Hospital" at the 65 Kilo Mark.

The high regard in which John was held on the Far North Coast is shown by yet another Obituary, which appeared in the "Gold Coaster/Daily News of Thurs. 28 Sept 1978, and which has been forwarded to me.

It reveals some additional information in respect of him in that it was in 1916 that his family moved to Cudgen and he was educated at Cudgen and Murwillumbah, One sister is living still at Cudgen, another in Brisbane and his brother, Jim is at Kingscliff. In 1947 he took up residence in Grafton, ,

NX36603 Pte Lindsay Henry Lambert Boys - Died 19/9/1978
Lindsay Boys was a member of the Transport Platoon, HQ Company and was a driver of one of the D Company trucks.

He left Singapore on 15/5/43 as a member of "J" Force for Japan, where he was one of those in the "Kobe House" Camp, working largely as wharf labourers, warehousemen and in the discharging of ships cargoes into barges.

The privations and treatment, to which he and others on that Force were subjected, led to him being classified a T.P.I. in 1977.

He was an avid League follower and was a Selector for Battalion Rugby League Teams with Garry Evans in training days.

Alex Dandie represented the Battalion at his Service at the Eastern Suburbs Crematorium, Botany, where one other ex-serviceman, apart from his family, was there in a final salute.

This ex-serviceman, it turned out., was Tom, brother of Jack Elphick, a member of our 2/30 Bn Band. Tom told me that he and Lindsay usually went to the big League games, frequently taking Jack with them to enjoy the games and discuss them later over a glass of the nut brown ale.

We extend to Dorothy and her son, his brothers and the families of all, our sympathy in his passing.

Ian Stuart Jones - Youngest Son of Captain "Bill" And Thelma Jones, "B" Company.
The tragic death occurred on 9 Sept last, of Ian Stuart Jones at the early age of 29 years, leaving a widow, Amanda and a little 2 yrs old daughter, Jennifer Anne. The cause of his death, which occurred suddenly without prior indication of sickness, was found after an autopsy to be a growth in the brain.

Your scribe attended the cremation service at the Northern Suburbs Crematorium, on Wednesday, September 13, representing the men of the Battalion.,

Ian's father, "Bill" Jones, will be remembered as having served pre-war in the 45th Byron Regiment; as a Platoon Commander in the 3rd Training Battalion and, on transfer to the A.I.F Platoon Commander, B Company, 2/30 Bn, then 2 I/c of that Company. In the civil sphere after the war he held many responsible positions with the Australian Broadcasting Commission, in N.S.W. and also in Singapore, where he and Thelma first came to know our adopted, Tom Jones, who was in business there both before and after the war, had been in the F.M.S.V.R. and then 2nd Baluchi. Tom although not related, other than by name, had come to be known as "Uncle Tom" to Bill and Thelma’s family and it was from him that we learnt of Ian's death.

Thelma tells me that Amanda had gone to Brisbane for a while to accustom herself to her loss and, on her return, would stay with Thelma, as long as was needed and until fresh plans for the future are made.

NX4413 Pte John F. Folkard - Died 16/10/1978
Jack Folkard was a member of the Pioneer Platoon, HQ Company.

He was on "F" Force with the main part of the Battalion, and later in X1 Party in its Tunnelling in Johore.

He resumed his trade as a Carpenter and Builder on his return to Australia, first of all in the Metropolitan Area and then in the country at Tallimba and West Wyalong.

Jack was one of the Association's Area Representatives in the South West and could be depended upon, when anything was required of him. He was the first of those Representatives to have to use the Bn form of service, prepared by Phil Schofield, in Oct '73 when Clarrie Wood's funeral was held in West Wyalong and with Monica's help carried out a first class job.

He was only 22 years of age, when he enlisted.

John and Monica had no children and his passing at the early age of 59 is a sad loss to her. Cancer in the lung is a hard thing to endure, but Monica tells us that, at least, he was not troubled by pain until the last fortnight before his death.

The Battalion was represented at his funeral service by Brian Hayes and Ernie Willis, who drove down to West Wyalong to attend, seeing Monica first at home, where she had received the arrangement of flowers, which the Executive arranged should be sent to her.

She tells me that there were 84 Masons to acknowledge a great loss in the passing on of their sitting District Inspector of Workings. Also the Church was packed to the doors in a tribute to him.

Monica extends her grateful thanks to the chaps who visited John at A.G.H. Concord, and says "with so many wonderful friends here at home and those we've made at Concord helping me. I know that God will give me the strength to carry on. May God Bless you all. Love. Monica."

NX72045 Pte Harold Victor Perandis - A Company - Died 25/12/63

NX7244 Pte Eric John (Snozzle) Byrnes - D Company - Died 6/7/67
As may be seen from the dates of their deaths, we have only now learnt of the deaths of these two mates.

Harry Rhodes writes: "Many 2/30 Bn members will be saddened to hear of the death of Ian McLaren (2/2 Bn), Mine Host at the Crown Hotel, Grafton, on 3 Sept. '78. Ian would be known to many of you for his hospitality during Annual Reunions, his death is a sad blow to the Northern Rivers Branch of the Ex-P.O.W. Association. Vale Ian. We will remember you.

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

Return Thanks

"Kingie" Martin – Dorrigo, 2453 - D Company
Just a note in sincere thanks to yourself and all the boys of the 2/30 for your kind words and sympathy in my time of sorrow. Also thank you for the lovely wreath, it was indeed a heart warming act and was much admired by friends and relatives, so thanks once again.

Bowls Day – 15th October 1978 - At Bankstown R.S.L. Bowling Club.

Despite it being a rainy day and a sheet of water lying over the green just before the teams were ready to come out for the play, the match between the Battalion Bowlers and the Club was carried on. Success came to the Battalion for the first time since these Annual Matches were commenced, although it is not known whether it was because of the reinforcements, whom Kevin had: Harry Dunn, 2/19 Bn; Bill Lansdown, (Lennie Lansdown's son); Bob Meiran (30 Bn CMF - the Bn volunteered as a Unit were transferred to the A.I.F. as a Unit and fought in the Islands, Bob Daniel (7 Div. made P.O.W. in Java); and J. Campbell; or as "Snowy Stevens" said, the 2/30th lads were so used to operating in the rain that it was that that had helped.

Kevin had known that some of the regulars were not able to be there, in fact, one of our teams had only three players, through the absence of one of our lads, so Bob Meiran played twice each way.

The final score gave a winning margin of 7 points, 39 to 32, in favour of the Battalion team.

The Battalion teams were:

L) Harry Dunn, Ken Forward, Snowy Stevens, Kevin Ward
S) Snow Mason, Jack Clune, Andy Hyslop, "Sluggo" Jones
T) George Gough, Jack Maclay, Bob Meiran, J. Campbell
C) Jack Fell, Bob Daniel, Bill Lansdown

"Sluggo" Jones had come down from Booval, near Ipswich Q., stayed over the weekend with his daughter at Wollongong, to be able to come up from there for the day's play; Jack Clune came down from Taree and, Jack Fell from Cessnock, while Andy Hyslop was from Umina, the others all Metropolitan.

George Aspinall brought his camera along to take some of the play on his film of the History of the Battalion, so that it was a pity that he had to contend with bad weather.

The spectators, along to encourage the teams, were some of the wives of some of the bowlers: Dorothy Ward, Nan Gough, Win Mason, Vera Fell, Sluggo's daughter, Janice, and her mate, Mel Lee Quong, plus Garry Evans, Dutchy. & Riga Holland, Joe & Georgina Geoghegan, their daughter, Dianne and her husband Geoff, Eric & Rhona Arps, Doc Wilson, Fred & Jean Johnston, Alex Dandie, Max McClelland, Jack Black.

During the afternoon Jack Fell said, that he would like to have some of the Bowlers of the Battalion, together with the Bankstown R.S.L. Bowlers come up to East Cessnock Club, where he is Greenkeeper and Bowls Secretary, for a weekend in 1979. Any interested in partaking in such a weekend, will you please let Kevin Ward know, so that he can be the Sydney liaison.

Jack says that there will be no trouble with accommodation, since besides what motels are there how, two more are in the course of construction.

Naturally, it is hoped, that Country and Metropolitan Members of the Battalion will take advantage of this offer and as soon as there is an indication of support for the idea, a date can be decided.

Although the Bn would be the guests of East Cessnock together with men from Bankstown R.S.L. Club, it would be a chance for some reciprocation for Bankstown's generosity, for which we have been on the receiving end, all the time, since these matches were commenced.

Relationship Between Stress and Heart Disease.

The Editor apologises for getting his copy for "MAKAN" last issue a bit mixed up. Of the two chaps mentioned only one had been a T.P.I. Claim rejection, the chap, whose letter of rejection was quoted, had been before another Repat. Tribunal.

Nevertheless, making that admission does not detract, in the Editors eyes one iota from his view, as it is set out that that 8 Div. are not getting a fair go.

You may recall that Dr. 'Tom' Selby, who, incidentally is a local G.P. for Repat. and was Regtl. M.O. 2/1 Bn. Bardia, Tobruk, Greece and C.O. 2/7 Fd. Amb. Wewak, had a letter of his reported in "MAKAN" No 240, where he pointed out that other people and Legacy have been trying for years to get the Dept. of Veteran's Affairs to give a more sympathetic ear to the pleas of 8 Div. personnel and their widows, in relation to the effects of stress, privation, tropical disease etc. on "early aging", a euphemism for arterial disease, and to have the benefit of doubt more generously given.

Dr. ‘Tom’ has written to me again and the vital part of his letter is titled, "STRESS AND ARTERIAL DISEASE." and says:

Many of those involved in welfare of ex-servicemen and their widows, are deeply concerned at the attitude of the Department of Veterans' Affairs in relating early deaths to stressful service.

He comments, "I have been associated closely with applications from those, who were Ps.O.W. (J) and, in every area in which I work, these have been regarded with sympathy and with understanding.

However, it appears to be at the highest level of decision making that benefit of doubt is not being given to 8 Aust. Div men.

It is well known that, up to now, the majority of senior physicians held the view that the stress from being brutally treated as P.O.W. did not affect coronary arteries.

This statement does not carry an insinuation of indictment of the individual Jap. soldiery - they were not responsible for their indoctrination.

I have seen British troops shooting at Italian airmen escaping in their parachutes, from a shot-down bomber.

Any attempt to obtain a fairer deal for badly treated Ps.O.W. does not imply an unwillingness to resume friendly relations with the Japanese people (our Allies in World War 1).

I hate war!!!

Wearing different hats I have instituted several attempts to change the system, whereby the S.M.O. appeals is the authority, which, in the eyes of the laymen of the Entitlement Tribunals over-rules other very senior medical opinion.

More and more authoritative physicians are agreeing that stress and high blood pressure may cause serious and late manifestations of damage to arteries. Herein lies the doubt of which the serviceman should have the benefit.

I am writing this because I appeal to you of the 2/30 Bn and other 8 Div organisations to exert influence at the highest governmental level and on all political parties to have the present departmental policy changed.

There are many problems, which will involve large expenditure and decisions about retrospectivity. The undoubted fact is though, that the AIF was a VOLUNTEER force. It is unacceptable that compensation through "Repat" should be less generous than workers' compensation would have been to munition workers living in their own homes.

Politicians must be reminded how nearly we lost World War 2, and the people should be informed constantly of where young Australians would stand today had it not been for the A.I.F. C.M.F. and the help of U.S.A. and Great Britain.

(Other 8 Div Magazines are at liberty to reprint if they so desire and are asked to give effect to Dr. Selby's appeal.)

In the quotation that I used in last "MAKAN" that Tribunal set out that it's Senior Medical Officer was saying, "IT HAS NEVER BEEN SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN AND HENCE IS NOT ESTABLISHED BY PUBLISHED PROSPECTIVE STUDIES THAT STRESS CAUSES HEART DISEASE OR HYPERTENSION."

If that does not set up the position, that there is doubt then what does it set up? Where doubt exists the applicant is, by Statute, supposed to be given the benefit of it.

Let's look at what happened to a chap in one of the other Battalions, the 2/19th.

He put in a claim for a heart condition and, after due deliberation the Dept. of Vet. Affairs sent him a reply, which read "THE INCREASE IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN PRISONERS OF WAR (J) IS REGARDED AS BENEFICIAL SO FAR AS THE DEVELOPMENT OF CORONARY HEART DISEASE IS CONCERNED". In other words Ps.O.W. (J) are all the better able to withstand coronary heart disease.

The 2/19 Bn M.O.’s comment on this was, "Ps.O.W. (J) will be glad to know that the Japanese did just what the doctor ordered by forcing them to work 12 to 16 hrs a day, 7 days a week for most of the 3½ years. Starving them in the quantity and quality of their diet, producing all manner of disease, ailments and complaints; malnutrition, beri beri, pellagra etc., in ignoring & the non treatment of all the recurrent attacks of malaria amoebic and bacillary dysentery and other diseases (one must interpose cholera too) and in other words, they were helping to preserve their coronary arteries and stopping them from getting heart attacks. There is no doubt that exercise in a civilised country is beneficial to the heart, but I think that only those, who do not know, could regard the Jap treatment as anything but detrimental to the body as a whole.” End of quote.

One thing that should be stressed, of course, is that the Jap treatment must be considered in its entirety. Who were the ones, whose physical activity was increased by the Japs, increased beyond the capability of the human frame to stand. You know what the attitude of the Japanese was to the sick, "No work, no meals." When you cannot supply the number of the men, that were required for the work. Line up your sick, we will see that they receive good therapy to relieve their ills. Don't take any notice of the fact that it is raining, that it is the wet monsoon season; that they have to travel miles to the work site and back, that the road, on which they have to travel is a gluey mass of inches of mud, so that there is difficulty in withdrawing each foot as they march. We'll give them work therapy and, only when they have finished the task ("the darg") for the day, will we let them come back into camp. It won't matter that they get back to camp hours after the darkness has set in, if they get back at all; if, at the least, their sicknesses are only worse and they have not collapsed, to be carried by their cobbers, one on each side with the arms of their sick mate around their necks. YES THAT'S THE SORT OF STRESS, THAT IS TO BE BENEFICIAL SO FAR AS THE DEVELOPMENT OF CORONARY HEART DISEASE IS CONCERNED? One feels like saying, "You have got to be joking?" The unfortunate thing for all those, who have died of heart disease and troubles arising from hypertension; for their widows; for those who have had heart attack after heart attack and, as they get over them, struggle to keep going in the "rat race", with their wives worrying and battling to ease the strain on their menfolk, is that these medicos believe in what they say; are not prepared to allow that there is an element of doubt.

News, Views and Who's Whose

Stan Coultas - Cootamundra, 2590 - C Company
Stan returned to Stockinbingal after the War; worked in a garage, owned by Jack Donaldson, for 3 or 4 years; then had a wood yard and carrying business.

He married Elsie Humphreys from Wagga Wagga in 1955 and they had two sons, Allan, who is a printer at Canberra and Mitchell, who is a trainee engineman at Cootamundra.

Stan moved to the above address at Cootamundra in 1966. He doesn't have the best of health (but never complains), has "stomach troubles", lives on Mylanta, doesn't drink now or smoke and is too slow now to chase ladies. He spends some time with a vegetable garden for home consumption and for one month of each year, from the end of Dec. to end of Jan goes on tour with car and trailer.

Elsie claims that he has a terrific nature, "unless provoked."

Stan has ideas of retiring in two years time. Then his dream is to make a trip around Australia. Those pipe dreams are as big as ever; Elsie hopes that he will realise some of them.

Stan is on the phone. (The number is not in the phone book). He'd be surprised to hear from his old mates, but nevertheless, glad to natter.

Any wonderment at having so much detail on Stan is easily dispelled, when you know that Elsie, Stan's wife, is the one, who has put us in the picture. She goes on to say, "Good old "Darkie" Despoges. He's a great scout, but he has Made himself awfully scarce, since he became involved with his dogs."

(Thank you Elsie for writing in. We editors always acknowledge the help that we get from the wives, does aid enormously with the news in "MAKAN". We are glad that you have sent in the money to put Stan in the Association and "MAKAN" will come to him regularly now. Ed)

"Darkie" Despoges - Cootamundra, 2590 - HQ Company
Elsie Coultas statement "that 'Darkie' has made himself 'scarce' since he became involved with the dogs", must be interpreted in the sense of not having the time to visit old mates. He is not scarce in kilogram weight. Digger Preen has a snap of a giant, 18 stone; one who most certainly would throw a huge shadow. When your scribe saw it, he wondered, whether he jogged or merely walked his dogs. He seemed a bad beri beri man

Jim McGoldrick - Tamworth, 2340 - D Company
Jim McGoldrick, was a member of 3 Sect. 16 Platoon, D Company. He was on "F" Force and X1 Tunnelling Party. He originally came from the Muswellbrook area and over the years, since we returned to Australia, small snippets of news came in from time to time.

In 1947 we were told that he was married. In 1952 a baby daughter had arrived.

1972, we learnt, that he was an Inspector with the Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission, was on the construction of the Lostock and Copeton Dams and, now we learn, that he is on the Chaffey Dam, Nundle Road, Tamworth.

We trust that his ulcers, which were always a trouble to him, are more or less quiescent.

He was along to the Tamworth Reunion. He is now a member of the Association after all these years. His wife, Peggy, not only presented him with daughter, Ann (now Mrs Malcolm Fraser), but also with a son, Mark. Or, have I made a blue, is it that Ann has given Jim and Peg a grandson, Mark, to spoil? It could be either. We will need to await further news to work it out.

George Winchester - Pymble, 2073 - C Company
George Winchester is home from A.G.H. Concord, but is still required to take care. His chest troubles are not all over. But he is a much happier man; has put on a couple of stone and now tops the 8 stone. He, naturally, looks a little thin but can "talk the leg off an iron pot" as of old. Cheers, George.

Bill Ennis - Lindfield, 2070 - C Company

Bill Ennis is back from his trip overseas. Has little to report at this stage, but I hope for a longer report later. He did say that he had looked Garry Rickwood up and had had a good time with him.

Brian Hayes - Parkes, 2870 - D Company
Anne is our letter writer, and says, "We had a surprise visit from Norman King, when he came into Parkes, campaigning for his Legislative Council seat. We also met Norm and his wife at the Leeton Reunion." (as is reported elsewhere. Ed.)

"The last Sunday the phone rang and we had Ray and Mavis Godbolt overnight. We took them out to show our marvellous Telescope. It was very pleasing to have them here." (Thanks very much Anne. A.D.)

Jock Mclean - Strathfield, 2135 - B Company
Jock discloses, "I have been away and subsequently very busy. I was lucky enough to have a 3 week trip to the U.S.A. on business, travelling to New York, Kentucky, Tennessee and Alabama, visiting factories and then back via New Orleans, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Honolulu. A wonderful trip, which a few days lying on the beach at Honolulu, made perfect.

My only other news is that I became a grandfather for the second time on 5th September.

Kindest regards and best wishes to all. Jock McLean"

Allen Warton - Malua Bay, 2536 - B Company
Allen reveals, "Elsie and I did intend to go to Ballina in August, but school holiday visitors caused a change of plans, however we do have next year's Ballina gathering marked up for a date.

My eyes are very well now with new glasses. I am very pleased with the extra sight since both eye operations.

Elsie and I are both well and a big vegetable garden keeps me occupied and interested.

Kind regards to all the boys please, Allen Warton."

Frank Jones - East Victoria Park, 6101, W.A. - C Company
Frank regrets that, "since returning to the West I had lost touch with the Battalion and, while there are a few over here, they are fairly well scattered, and it is so long ago now that I am not sure, that I would recognise them, should we meet.

I have been a pensioner for a couple of years now and my wife and I have been enjoying reasonably good health, so, all going well, we hope to be around for quite a while."

Frank Sullivan - Millers Point, 2000 - B Company
Frank phoned about the Malaysian trip and in the course of conversation we learnt, that he is now foreman on one of the big construction jobs in Sydney.

Frank is a member of Paddington Woollahra R.S.L. Club. He says that the Club has completed extensions to provide, what is called, The Regency Club, within the R.S.L. Club, it being available for organizations connected with R.S.L. Ex-P.O.W. etc, payment being for Drinks and Eats, otherwise the accommodation is free. He mentioned it as a possible place for a Reunion.

George Stephenson - Mollymook, 2539 - HQ Company
Your scribe has a photograph of the Bn., Soccer team that played at Batu Pahat, just before the hostilities started.

The team is shown in "A" Company jerseys, but George explains this by saying that he thinks that was because the Batu Pahat team was to play in white, so that the Bn. team could not wear the Bn. shirts, which were white also.

He says, "The game finished 2 - 2, Batu Pahat's 2 goals were scored by their inside left, who was a Malayan International. Jack Salisbury scored the Bn's first goal and George scored the equaliser.

Myrtle Hyem - Kogarah, 2217
Myrtle writes, "I'm enclosing a donation to help you with all the past copies of "MAKAN". I enjoy reading them as many names are familiar, even if I do not recall the face clearly to fit the name." (Thank you very much for the help, Myrtle. Ed.)

Frank Hannan - Wollongong, 2500 - HQ Company, Bn Q Store
Frank reported that he would be going up to Gayndah, Qld in September; that he had spent nine days in Rockhampton with Paddy Walsh at the time of his Golden Jubilee Mass, and joined Jock Logan, Harry Riches and "Joe" Johnston of the 2/30 Bn with Stan Scarabellotti of the AASC, who was with "G" Force in Japan and has bean adopted by the 2/30 boys at Ballina, in their seat inside the Cathedral. He makes the comment, "One would have had to be there to see just how great was the crowd that filled the Cathedral and also flowed outside."

You might remember, that he had pins put into his legs on both sides arising from two falls, but he says that they are very good, and, in fact, that he feels "fit and well".

Unfortunately, when he came back to Wollongong from Rockhampton, he had a bad infection in the ear, (possibly a follower from "Singapore Ear", your scribe has heard of others still having trouble even so long after.) and was not discharged by the doctor until the 9th June, consequently not being able to get up to Sydney to see Paddy on Anzac Day; even now he has still to keep them dry, not allowing water into them.

He finishes his letter, "Well I shall close and I wish the Boys well. All the Best. Frank".

George Michell - Wembley, W.A. 6014 - B Company
George comments, "Everything is going along here about the same as always. We see the whole family every weekend, everyone comes to see us for Saturday tea. It is quite good to have them altogether once a week.

Ray will be going to Holland with the Australian Baseball team, then they go to Italy to play in a world series, so he will have a good trip.

John goes to Rockhampton as an Australian Referee for the Junior Basketball Championships. It will take him away for a couple of weeks.

I still go to hospital three times a week, but am feeling quite well.

I am looking forward to seeing George Kingston, when he comes over as he said. Kindest regards to all,       George."

Wal Eather - South Tamworth, 2340 - HQ Company A/A Platoon
Just a brief note to let you know that Freda and I are still alive and keeping reasonably healthy.

I see Ray Michell and Tuppy, Doug Hicks and Beryl and Phil Bailey quite frequently and can report that they appear to be enjoying life still.

The Tamworth 8 Div. Reunion Dinner will be held this year on Saturday, 7th October. (It will be over by the time this gets to print, so we expect a full report, Wal, please. Ed)

The Diamond Jubilee of Tamworth Diggers' Day Golf will be held on Sunday, 8th Oct. I am O.C. for the day once again. I am fortunate in having an efficient and keen committee; I can commend this weekend to all.

T.P.I.

One of our reporters has advised that three more of our men are classified T.P.I. - Clarrie Burgess, Jack Dingwell and George Gough.

Tom Kennedy - East Gresford, 2491 - C Company
Helen advises, "I am writing you this letter for Tom. He has been able to buy a 5 acre place with a house and a lovely large creek running through the property. As a child he started school at West Gresford spending a large part of his young life here, so for some time he has been wanting to come back here to live, now that he has retired.

His 5 acres gives plenty of room for his 23 grandchildren to really whoop it up with no one to complain of noise.

He is at present (end of July) at our eldest daughter's home in Newcastle, receiving treatment for skin cancers. The treatment does not help his nerves nor his diabetes, but he has to have it.

Bob Wells and his wife, Bet, have been over to see Tom already to welcome him back to Gresford."

Ted Campbell - Tumbarumba, 2653 - HQ Company
Ted has let me have some of the sketches, which he drew, while in Changi. Many of you will have seen them, while over there as some were drawn for the entertainment of the boys. I am trying to see if I can have them reproduced for printing in later copies of "MAKAN" for you.

He states that, "the little group in this area, Bluey Gray and Clyde Blencowe, whom I see quite often, and I, myself, are keeping O.K., and I go skiing on the nearby Kiandra snowfields. I'm enjoying my retirement, finding plenty to keep me busy - I'm a member of a Legacy Group and help with swimming lessons in the summer.

I'm sorry to hear of so many of our mates dying, "Baldy" Barnes and Dave Tate, but I guess it's a sign of the times.

All the best to all the lads, Ted Campbell."

Arch Thorburn - East Lindfield, 2070 - C Company
Arch commences, "Your gentle reminder that it was about time I contributed something to the life blood of the Association has shamed me into putting pen to paper.

My two youngest children, Marion and Angus, completed their academic careers last year and were due to face up to the rigours of being gainfully employed, after serving six months at the beginning of this year at the College of Law.

They pointed out to me (and this was true) that this would be the last chance that we would have of travelling as a family. It was arranged accordingly that they precede us to Europe in mid-November, have a fortnight in the snow, join us in Rome and we should then travel as a party. This we did, travelling by car (with them driving) through Northern Italy, Spain and France to Paris, whence we went by ferry to Dover, picking up in London a "travel home", which is a glorified caravan.

We lived in it, whilst we spent a fortnight in England and Scotland. I kept an appointment, which I had at Nottingham University for a conference and then home in early January.

They settled down and after completing College of Law, were duly admitted as Solicitors on the 14th July. We were honoured to receive an invitation from the Chief Justice to join him for morning tea after the ceremony. The invitation took the form of a letter with the crest of the Chief Justice embossed on it and commenced, "My dear Arch." I think the Chief may have had in mind that their admission was to be moved by the same Barrister, who had moved my admission and that of my other 'daughter, Diana, a rather unusual state of affairs.

Having delivered the foregoing, I shall resume my somnolent habit (from a literary point of view) of reading with interest of activities of other members of the Association. ( Ah, Not so, my dear Arch. No one is to be allowed such inaction. I expect a report of Tamworth Reunion, not only from Wal Eather, but also from you, as well as others, who attended. Variety is the spice of life, and all tend to look at the same things from a different perspective, in the same way, as you will admit no doubt, that the legal fraternity know witnesses in the courtroom will declare in their evidence.) - (Seepage 48. Ed)

Arthur Purdon - Tuncurry, 2428 - Bn QMS.
Just a brief message, "Sorry. No paper. Kindest regards to all the boys. Arthur Purdon." It was written on the back of his Subs position memo, and accompanied by his cheque to put himself in advance again. When I saw him at the Taree Reunion he was greyer, but still carries himself erect, still has his ready smile and showed, that there was nothing wrong with his memory.

He is one, whom I have not seen since 1943, but he picked me out, when I leaned on his table and asked how he was, to ask me if I had been able to bring home a typewriter, he had given me in Changi. I had to tell him no such luck. It was easy, when the search was at the wharves in Singapore, a convenient pile of concrete pipes were receptacles for everything the whole of the party did not want the Japs to see, and in true Nippon style they looked only at what we laid down in front of us, with never a look into the pipes. The typewriter went on board the freighter with me, on to the train in Japan, and was not looked at, although I left it with all the rest of my gear for the search on the Kobe baseball grounds. Inside the camp it had to go to the office to be locked away with all other valuables of others on the party and, on 5 Jun 1945, when the Yanks dropped their incendiaries on Kobe with a stick of bombs into our warehouse camp, the typewriter was forgotten, in any case none of those valuables were obtainable, all were destroyed in the fire.

Blair Taylor - Deakin A.C.T. 2600 - C Company
Blair has let us know that he and June entertained an old friend recently, in the person of Bob Wells and his wife, Bet during their recent visit to Canberra.

"We had a great night swapping reminiscences of the old days in Japan. We looked over old photographs, which I took before leaving Japan and sang old songs, such as "Kobe House Blues" and "The Boys that Churchill forgot". (May I have copies please, Blair. A.D.)

My family has grown and June and I now have four grandchildren to spoil, as our children all live in Canberra.

Please give my regards to the Boys, Blair.",

Sid Stephens - East Maitland 2323 - HQ Company
Sid tells us a bit of news, "I retired last January from Telecom, owing to arthritis - in my knees especially - I had worked for Telecom for over 30 years, so it was fairly easy to leave and give my job to one of the younger generation.

My wife, Joan, and I have been doing a bit of travelling, this year we decided to see Australia.

We have been through the Centre, we both climbed Ayres Rock - no mean feat, either! (I'll agree there, Sid, I chickened, when I was there. A.D.), thence to Darwin; through the Kimberley's; south to Mt. Tom Price; then to Perth. Of course, we saw all the usual tourist stops on the way and were very thrilled to see so many wild flowers out. After touring to Albany we headed across the Nullarbor, to Adelaide and home.

We leave tomorrow (beginning of August) for Cairns; to the Gulf; down the Birdsville Track, Broken Hill and home, so we will be able to speak with a little knowledge about some parts of the lucky country.

Last year we had a fairly extensive tour of Europe, and went through Greece, Israel, Russia, Poland, Germany, as well as the United Kingdom. Joan and I enjoy tripping about but we find that the money does not last!!

I see a couple of our boys now and again, Freddie Hump and Punter Wallace. Fred and I went to Clive Bates Funeral.

Apart from the arthritis and a little blood pressure I have no serious health problems and consider myself to be reasonably fit, Thank God.

Most of the folk in our area seem to spend their time playing bowls, but so far I am too busy to take up a serious sport. I do a little fishing, but have spent most of my time at home in catching up on work around the house, taking my time to do odd jobs, rather than rushing things. Yours, Sid.

(Sid, would you mind letting me have the addresses of Freddie and Punter, with some news about them for "MAKAN".

Their names have come up on odd occasions only, last we heard was back in 1974. A.D.)

Len Clavan - Tintenbar Via Teven, 2480- HQ Company, Transport Platoon
Len declares his "health is still fair and I am skill working, but thinking of giving it away anytime now. Wyn also is still working and going strong, but she comes home tired out at times and ready to snatch it, but it's still to happen.

We both commence holidays at the end of August, when we will be off the Canberra for a couple of weeks to see the girls Lee and Gail, son Dallas and grand-daughter, Julie.

Congratulations to Jack Maclay, he did quite a job in writing up the Lismore Reunion and B.B.Q. I have sent it down to Gail and John already.

Most of the boys in the area are keeping reasonably well, must be the clean living.”

Wyn also dropped a line, saying, "We went to Canberra on 4th Sep., and were away about 16 days. We had a great holiday with our family, even if the pace was pretty fast. We haven't stopped tearing around for 3 weeks and are more tired now than when we started, but we have another week to get over it before starting work again.

We had the added thrill of going to Rosehill on the 16th September and watching our Daughter's and her Husbands horse win in the last race - name of "Valcum Star" - it also won in Canberra the Saturday before that, although we were unable to see it win that day - not bad going for a horse won in a raffle for $20. - it has had 11 wins so far and several placings.

Regards to all, Wyn and Len."

Laurie Mountford - Leeton, 2705 - Bn HQ Band
Laurie was one of the Band, with whom I was in touch, when preparing that list of the Bandsmen for last ""MAKAN", and when I was seeking some other information. He is one of our respected elders, over 3 score years and ten; in fact, turning 76 on the 29th July last.

He responded to my enquiry, saying, "As one knows, "B.J.", when forming the 2/30 had a number of players, about 12, all good for a start of a band. Wagga Band had at least 15 players and the camp there was for an I.T.B. so that people went everywhere from it. At first, attempts to get the whole of the Band to Bathurst were foiled by the C.O. at Wagga, but finally "B.J." succeeded in getting what he wanted."

Laurie sends kindest regards to all.

(Your scribe was helped by George Gough and Bill Middleton•, as well as Laurie, in compiling the list. A.D.)

Jack Fell - Cessnock, 2325 - B Company
As promised, here is a short account of my activities during my holidays.

Not being as affluent as some of your correspondents, I limit my holidays to travelling through N.S.W. and Queensland.

I spent a week in Sydney, at the end of May, playing in the Interstate Greenkeepers' Bowls Carnival. As you would expect this took up most of our time, but I did make time to go out to see Frank and Ruth Purvis at Gymea; both are looking well and Vera and I spent a very pleasant evening with them.

Then it was back home for a couple of days, while Vera had to go and see her doctor, following which we went up to Mungindi to spend a couple of days with Ted and Cetress Rickards. Ted has gone back to shearing, as he has told you, he has found that he has a lot more muscles to get tired than when he was pulling beer at the club.

Cetress took us fishing' one day. The gear that they use up there would shock our seasoned fisherman with all their rods reels and specialised gear. All they use up there is a bit of stick, cut from any bush, that happens to be handy, a length of nylon fishing line about thirty feet long, on the line is attached a cork from a plonk bottle, a sinker and a hook. Bait is obtained by immersing a tin, with a couple of bits of raw meat in it, in the river; after about ten minutes the tin is raised to the surface and, with any luck, there could be a couple of freshwater shrimps in it. One of these is then attached to the hook and cast into the water, with the stick stuck firmly in the mud. After some couple of hours our sole catch was a yellow belly, which we had for tea.

Ted and I were supposed to play bowls at Collarenebri on Sunday, but, with the rain, that fell on Saturday night, this was out of the question.

As the rain showed no sign of stopping, we decided to leave on Sunday afternoon to head for Brisbane. About fifteen miles from Mungindi my car stopped and refused to go again. However, with the assistance of a passing Good Samaritan, we were mobile again, only to stop again after another five mile. This kept up with monotonous regularity, but after 4½ hours we finally made it to Goondiwindi, having travelled just 95 miles.

We had no further problems from there to Brisbane, where I had a few days with my brother and was able to see my mother, who is in a Nursing Home. While we were there she turned 90.

Turning homewards it was back down the coast to Coff's Harbour, where we had an afternoon and night with Joe and Norma Veivers. Joe's son is going well in his football and daughter, Kathy, judging by the dinner, that she cooked for us, is going to be a very good exponent of the culinary art.

Jack and Una Clune spent the weekend with us and we had a pleasant afternoon at Woolgoolga with Norm Lee and Bob Newman. We came home after being away about six weeks, but we had promised to go to the Ex-Ps.O.W. Reunion at Taree, so it was back there again last weekend, 19/20 Aug. We stayed with Una and Jack Clune at Mitchell Island, other house guests there also were Curly and Beatrice Hardman.

Ian Pryce - Wahroonga, 2076 - D Company
The news of Reg. Napper's retirement from the Army impels me to write.

I'm glad that Reg's responsibility was in the training of officers. He was an incomparable soldier and would influence them greatly. I had the privilege of serving with him for the few weeks, during which I commanded 16 Platoon in action, and to me he was outstanding in a group of outstanding soldiers.

I recall two others, who had Reg's capacity, Ken Reid and Clive Glover. They will all surely meet one day in the special place reserved for good and honourable soldiers.

Yours sincerely, Ian Pryce.

Carl Martin (“Kingie") - Dorrigo. 2453 - D Company
Kingie has sent me down a clipping from the local paper, which reads, "HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP - At the Annual General Meeting of the Dorrigo and Guy Fawkes Agricultural Association Last Tuesday, Mr. Carl Martin was presented with Honorary Life Membership.

Show President, Peter Gordon, said that it was a unanimous decision of the Committee that Mr. Martin be bestowed with this honour in appreciation of his generosity and support to the Association over the years.

Mr Martin was presented with his badge by Senior Vice President, Bruce Beaumont, who spoke of the encouragement and help Mr Martin had given to the Association and exhibitors, including himself, when he first showed some 25 years ago.

Mr Martin, in thanking the Association, said that he was proud of his connection with the Dorrigo Show- over the past 60 years.

Kingie says in his letter, "I was very pleased that I received it before my wife died. It gave her great pleasure.”

Fred Campbell - HQ Company (B Company Cook) - Died 3/12 43, Kanburi No. 1
Fred's Mother was 101 yrs of age early in August, so your scribe sent her a Birthday Good Wishes card for the occasion.

Fred's sister, Mrs J. Wilson, 175 Durham St, Bathurst, has said that Mrs Campbell has not been feeling very well, but she did appreciate receiving the card, also the flowers, which were sent before. At the moment she is very ill in Hospital.

(Your scribe does not know how many responded to the request from Mrs. Wilson last April for anyone who had been with Fred in P.O.W. days on "F" Force to write to them, but if there is anyone else amongst us, who may be able to give old Mrs Campbell some comfort, will you please drop her a note. Ed.)

"Dutchy" Holland - Berala, 2141 - B Company
"Dutchy"" reports that he and Rita enjoyed this, their second trip to Europe. It enabled them to see more of other countries. He took part in a gathering of the British Far East P.O.W. Association, but met no one he knew. Rita’s son had married an English lass and their home was 30 miles from the Scottish Border, so that Dutchy and Rita had a good base, while over there.

He commented on the report of Jack Commans death that Jack had been reported dead once before, in error. When life had been a bit tough for him and he was on the road, he had had his Discharge Certificate on him, when asleep under a bridge at Woodford in the Blue Mountains and someone had ratted his pockets for cash and taken the Certificate, but had died later, when Jack's Discharge Certificate was found on him, so that the newspapers at the time reported Jack as having died. Dutchy was at some turnout later, where Jack had been one of those there, and, when told that he was supposed to be dead, had a good laugh at the idea.

The Tattler Hotel in George St, Sydney, used to be quite a favourite of some of the boys. Some worked there, I recall mention in "MAKAN" of Ted Watts and Fred Bladwell as two of these, Others were on the other side of the bar or roomed there; Bruce Upcroft, Lou Brown, Alan Smith come to mind. Dutchy's wife, Rita, tells me that her brother used to be the Head Steward at the Tattler, where she visited him and when barmaids were hard to come by in the trade, he taught her all that was to be known in the serving of customers, starting her off with the idea of making a little cash by washing glasses.

"Andy" Ray Knox - Collaroy Plateau, 2098 - C Company
Ray was operated on in Concord for surgeons to create a by-pass of the veins in his leg, but he was suffering still from lack of warmth in the feet, so his doctor in Sydney said it would be good for him up on the Gold Coast, where he has a nephew, so Ray and Freda went up. At first there was improvement, Ray was able to move his toes, and even tried a walk outside in the garden, where his nephew was working. It seemed things were on the up and up, but the sores from the operations were not healing, so Ray has been in the Tweed District Hospital, for a while now. If anyone is able to look him up, passing that way it will be a pleasure for Ray to have a chat with him.

(As at 30 Oct discharged and temporary address - Bilinga, 4225, Q'land, letter received while this was in printing. Ed)

"Curly" Hardman - Woy Woy, 2256 - HQ Company Transport Platoon
Beatrice sent in a short note with Curly's Subs to say that he was well, and also, she herself.

(Your scribe met up with them at the Taree Reunion and found that they did indeed look well, but then they have had their bouts of sicknesses in the past, and they must have left a mark. It is all of 35 years since your scribe had seen Curly who is a little stouter, a little greyer in the hair, but still a lot of it, as curly as ever, and still the same old "Curly".)

Col O'Donnell - Dalveen, Q'land, 4374 - C Company
Col remarks, "Have just had my two grandchildren with their parents staying with us for 3 weeks. My wife and I wish that we had been 30 years younger. We were both physically and mentally exhausted, when they left.”

My son, John, who joined me 4 years ago, now manages the property and is doing an excellent job. We commence shearing, next Monday, and are praying for fine warm, weather. We have had a lot of cold weather the last four weeks, so we have our fingers crossed. At long last, beef prices are moving up and also the wool prices, so we may be able to pay taxes to help keep those 2 million on social security next year.

Bob Howells and Nancy were at Surfers' Paradise for a couple of weeks holiday recently. I spoke to him twice but, unfortunately couldn't get down to stay with them.

My wife and I would be delighted to see any of the boys, who may be driving past Dalveen on the New England Highway. Our property is only 2 miles from Dalveen. Ring me first, though, to check that I am home. It's a bitumen road all the way to the property.

Cheers for now, kindest regards to all 'old boys', Col."

Don McKenzie - Lismore, 2480 - C Company
Don discloses, "I am still on the City Council, here. I have given quite a bit of thought to retirement, but can't see any advantage in it just yet.

Our family is well scattered around now with some in 3 different states. We have only one in Lismore now, one daughter in Sydney, a son and daughter in Melbourne and a daughters in Mackay in Queensland.

My, only problem health wise is bronchitis, although I do allow, that it might improve greatly, if I could give up smoking.

I am enclosing a poem, which was printed in Lismore's local paper, "The Northern Star". It is a tribute to one of our good mates. I thought perchance you might like to put it into "MAKAN". It is nice to know that someone, for whom we had high regard is also highly appreciated by the community, in which he lives. Ossie Jackson will always have plenty of friends.

Hearty Good Wishes; Kind regards to all the Battalion.

Don."

Binna Burra Stalwarts

Someone by name, of A. Morris, who dwells in Bangalow town,
Writes verses about some of the locals, maybe hoping to gain renown.
But if I were to write in same manner of someone well known and much liked,
'Twould be of the brothers Jackson, dear old Ossie and Mike.

They once owned a store and post-office, at a whistle-stop, just out of town,
And as well as dispensing the groceries, their kindly deeds knew no bound.
We were farming when we first met them some 25 years ago,
And through all the years that we knew them, they cheered us in gladness and woe.

There are lots of woes for a farmer, sick stock, too much drought, too much rain,
But Ossie and Mike with their jokes and their yarns would soon have us smiling again.
Nothing was too much trouble for those happy guys at “the shop"
Where on Sunday mornings especially, everyone seemed to stop.

'Twas the hub of that farming region, the verandah rail served as a seat,
Where the men of the area gathered to exchange the news of the week.
There was Toby and Bob, Reg, Cecil and 'Ack', to mention just a few,
Who swapped the news and jokes and yarns, some tall, some clean, some blue!

I remember when we were 'new chums', and were told of the strangest things,
About whoo-whoo birds and goats that jumped from either one of two things.
Our youngsters really believed it, and spent their time in vain,
Searching around for those long-necked birds that gave themselves such pain.

On weekday mornings, the school kids gathered from all around,
To wait for the bus into Lismore, and no better place could be found,
As they were all known to Ossie and Mike, and many a Mum could say thanks,
For the help given all of those kids at some time, no matter how foolish their pranks.

The hand of friendship extended to all made many a lonely heart glad,
And the shop credit given to quite a few folk when times were especially bad,
To tell of it all would fill a large book, but one thing for sure I can say,
There's a family who'll never forget them, since we lived out Binna Burra way.

J.D.

Ron ("Jacko") Jackson - Chatswood, 2067 - B Company
I feel the following incredible performance rates a word of praise in "MAKAN".

Garry Evans being such an ultra modest person would not have told anyone else but me, knowing I always respect a confidence.

However on. the recent Bank Holiday, playing in a Four Ball Event at Strathfield, he accomplished the well nigh impossible. On the long difficult par four 5th hole, after a tremendous distance devouring tee shot, he hit a scintillating iron shot straight in to the hole, for an eagle 2. To the delight of his partner the resultant score was six stableford points for the hole.

No doubt Jack Nicklaus, had he been present, would have turned green with envy.

To be quite truthful, I have never heard of anyone scoring six points on a hole before. I have had holes in one and only received 4 points for them.

Hoping this finds all in the pink, regards to you all,

Yours faithfully, Ron Jackson."

Stan (Nugget) Crummy - Casino South, 2470 - HQ Company
A short note of Good Wishes. Nugget saw Ray Godbolt up there. He sends "Kind Regards to all the Boys. Stan."

"Jock" McKenzie - Leeton, 2705 - HQ Company (Transport)
Jock mentions, "I have not been too good for the last 12 months, cannot walk too far or do anything strenuous for too long, however a heart doctor in Griffith is doing me some good. There is nothing wrong with my appetite; I eat like a horse, but I can't work like a horse.

I'll be 77 come 7th Jan next, but I have still a long way to go to catch my Dad. He is heading for 98, not a bad innings.

"Kind regards to all, Jock."

Ken Parry - Chermside West, Brisbane, 4032 - D Company
Ken and Betty celebrated their 30th Wedding Anniversary recently and your scribe took the opportunity to wish them well on your behalf, for many years to come together.

In expressing his thanks, Ken has given a new address as above. We have settled back into our home in Brisbane and effected the required repairs as a result of some 5 years tenancies.

I have set up a nice billiard room and bar, which should keep my friends nicely comfortable on a cold winter's night or so. Brisbane is a great place, so far as climate goes, I think.

I am well, work is very interesting, though demanding.

Please pass my regards to other friends in the Association. Cheers. Ken Parry.

Jack Boss - Hunters Hill 2110 - A Company
One other 2/30th pair, whose 30th Wedding Anniversary occurred in August, was Jack and Cecilie Boss. Jack, who hit the 60 years of age mark this year, is on the T.P.I. list and both he and Cecilie keep plugging along, although just not A1.

Les Hall - Harbord, 2096 - HQ Company, Sigs.
Les reported that he had been down in Mollymook, where he had the pleasure of meeting up with George Stephenson and Arnie Ainsworth.

George recently suffered another spell in Milton Hospital. He had suffered a chest complaint, but is quite well now and, engaging in his retirement activities, Bowls, Bowls, a little golf and more Bowls. He told me that he often meets up with Les Southwell, who is Secretary of the Bateman's Bay Bowls Club, soon, he believes, to be standing for the office of President.

Arnie Ainsworth is more or less his old self again. Unfortunately his leg, the one feasted on by a dog in Ulladulla, is lacking in proportion through wastage. The cavity left by the hungry animal is still, so his wife, Joan, told me, visible, although it does not interfere with his mobility, but the weight has not been regained in that area.

However by means of the culinary arts of his very ministering "Housemaster" - wonderful cakes the lass makes. I know, I had three whilst there - there is no question his weight loss will soon be regained.

Vince O'Reilly - Southport, Q'land, 4215 - A Company
One of our reporters on the Gold Coast passed me the information that Vince and Gwen O'Reilly would be celebrating their 40th Wedding Anniversary on Sunday, 17th September, and we have wished them every happiness for the future, continuing as they have been in the past for the years ahead.

Keith Broughton - Summer Hill, 2130 –HQ
Keith has been in touch concerning arrangements to get to some of the Reunions. Ballina was first choice, but making a car load to get there fell through, then he hoped to make it to Tamworth.

He is one of the retired gentry, but helped out a friend, who fell sick, by going in to his business as manager for about a month. Despite the fact that Keith knew the business, he said he was glad to be free again, the hard regimen of keeping to a daily routine of office work and hours was hard to take.

Have you ever seen Keith without that well polished dome of his? It seems that your scribe wasn't using his eyes last Anzac Day, because Keith has told me that he was wearing a toupee. He made a request to Dept. of Veterans' Affairs to have a sun cancer removed off the top of his head. He was given an appointment for it to be done. Two postponements and third time he thought he was going to be lucky and have it done. But, he did not allow for the "Treatment". He was admitted to the Specialist, who looked at the spot and said, that's deep seated; I'll have to get you admitted, so that we can treat it. Keith nearly howled in protest, "That's what I'm here for, to get it done." It seems you can't win.

Tom Wright - Lismore - HQ Company, Transport Platoon
Having a chat with Tom Wright at the Ballina R.S.L. at the Ex-P.O.W. Reunion in August, we found that Tom was very disgusted at his treatment. He was sick enough to be admitted to the Lismore Hospital. He sent in a claim to the Dept. of Veterans' Affairs for his troubles. The Dept. sent out to his local M.O. for a report and Tom says, "He wrote back to them that a delay of about six months would be necessary; that he could not give a report until the end of that time, by which he considered he would have Tom better, then he would be able to give his opinion." Tom did not tell me the exact trouble with himself but it shows another angle of Repatriation. How can you win?

Norm Watkins – Ballina, 2478 - A Company
We did not hear it from Norm himself, but we were told one of the others, that Norm's brother, Clarrie, is a first rate bowler and represented Australia at the Commonwealth Bowls earlier in the year in Canada. He was Skip of the Australian team and that shows the regard in which he is held.

Lady Galleghan - Cremorne, 2090
One of our reporters drew my attention to an item in the Sun Herald of July 30th last, his wife having pointed it out to him. It said, "Two meetings with the Queen in the one day for Lady Galleghan, when she was at Buckingham Palace to receive her OBE, and again at an evening reception at St James Palace.

She was also at the memorial service for Sir Robert Menzies at Westminster Abbey, and was then off to Kabul and to India, and due home again early next month (Aug.)."

Roy King - Adamstown, 2289 - B Company
Roy admits, "I enjoy reading the "MAKAN", because, when you read it and see the names of your 2/30 mates it brings back memories, some good and, I'm sorry to say, some sad; but time and tide waits for no man, as we all know.

As for myself, I am in reasonable health; receive a 30% pension, I've had it for about the last 20 years, so I'm very lucky.

Will you please give my very best regards to all the boys. I remain, Yours   Roy King."

Wally Tedman - Mt. Gravatt, 4122. - B Company
Wally writes, "I went over to Malaysia in the 2/26 Bn but became a reinforcement to the 2/30 Bn, where I remained.

Jock Logan rang me the other day and suggested I write to you. It has been a long time since we came home. In that time no doubt a lot have passed on and it would be interesting to know how many of us are left? (rough figures Wal - Life Members 171, Annual Subscribers 137, Known died since we returned 181 and that leaves 250 unaccounted for, Wal. Ed.)

All must be getting on in years. I am 68 yrs of age, I have not been in hospital, since we came back, for which I am thankful, although we all have aches and pains.

I brought back with me a lot of cigarette cards, also one diary, the others were either stolen or confiscated, I am not sure, they were day by day entries. Also I had written out quite a lot of poems, made up by various Ps.O.W. I have them.

I would like to hear from any of the boys sometime.          I was in Changi most of the time, although I went on X1 Tunnelling Party to Johore. I remain, Yours sincerely, Wally Tedman."

C.J. (Chum) Farley - Moorooka, Q'land, 4105 - B Company
It was a great pleasure for me to meet you again at the Ballina Reunion. Thanks also for the copy of "MAKAN", being the first one I had seen. I can assure you that I read it with great interest. No doubt I certainly have missed out on all the "doings" over the years.

Having lived in Brisbane, since we came home, I haven't seen nor heard much about ex-2/30 Bn members, although some good many years ago (at least 20) I did attend a couple of reunions at Lismore with Ron Chipps.

You will no doubt, be including a report of the Ballina Get-together and the Sunday B.B.Q. at "Joe" Johnston's place in "MAKAN". I certainly enjoyed it and it was a great credit to the organisers, "Snow" Hampton, Len Clavan, "Hoot" Gibson, Sid Jameson (2/18) and Co.

I was on holidays in Ballina during April of this year. While having a fiddle on the pokies in the R.S.L. Club I saw, Len Clavan a few machines up the line. Naturally I went up and said, "Hello, Len, How are you” and “Do you know me?” He didn't and, when I said, "Chum" Farley, he said, "......., I thought you died 20 years ago!”. Naturally I assured him that I was very much alive and well, but I was a good cause for a celebration.

A very good friend of mine, who was with me at the time Eddie Langmead (ex 2/29 Bn, - he was at Ballina and at the B-B-Q too) joined in and on Anzac Day we all got together; it turned out that he and Sid Jameson had been on the "Line" together. By the way Eddie was with Les Hall and was very interested to read about Les in the "MAKAN".

I was interested to read the article concerning the proposal to place a plaque on the Gemencheh Bridge, and the proposed tour of Malaya. I was also interested to read Tom Grant's views on the matter.

Details about me are: (his address as set out above); I was in B Company; on F Force and X10 Tunnelling Party. I am married, have 2 children and 1 grandchild. I have worked with the Commonwealth Public Service since 1946; had 10 years with Repat. and have been with the Dept. of Health ever since, except for a few years with Social Security, during the tenure of the Whitlam Govt.

My health is good and I enjoy a game of golf each weekend (not that I'm much good at it).

Furthermore, I would be pleased to hear from any of the boys, who might happen to be up this way at any time.

Oh! I almost forgot. One of the tapes played by Kevin Ward at the B.B.Q. was a piper and I said, "shades of Jimmy Webster" . Much to my surprise he said, 'that is Jim'. Could you please pass on my regards and best wishes to Jimmy, as he was a great mate of mine. I am enclosing a cheque for Life Membership etc, and subscription and will keep in touch.

Regards and best wishes to all. Chum Farley.

Des Duffy - Brighton-Le-Sands, 2216 - B Company
A letter from Ivy Duffy alerted me to the fact that Des was in Lady Davidson Hospital at North Turramurra.

It seems that he had been up early in the morning, feed the cat and, adding more to its plate, Des lost his balance, and broke a limb as he went down on the tiled floor, so that was why he was taken to Lady Davidson. As soon, as his fracture knitted, Des wanted to go home and spend his convalescent time at home. Lady Davidson was not the place for him. The doctor wanted to keep him, but Ivy managed to get him home; where "Porky" Moore and your scribe visited him.

We found him a far more composed and happier man, than he had been in the hospital, but, of course, moving round slowly.

Ivy asks, "Remember him to his friends, please. Any of his old friends, who could visit him, I know, he would be pleased to see.

Hoping all are well, Sincerely yours, Ivy Duffy.

G.E.T. (Big Johnno) Johnson - Wangan, Q, 4860 - C Company
Big Johnno satisfactorily answered the calls on him as Bn representative in North Queensland, when we had the untimely deaths of both Dave Tate and Len Barnes; he wrote to Alan Pryde, who passed me his letter.

Big Johnno says, "I am the only 2/30th man left in far North Queensland.

I retired 8 years ago and keep myself fit by actively keeping very mobile. I mow lawns for older less active pensioners, 10 lawns in all including my own. I also have a big vegetable garden and I can assure you, I am quite happy with this activity and my weight is down to 12 stone.

My ambition is to get down to one of the Battalion get togethers before too long.

Signing off now, your old mate of healthier days, George E.T. (Big Johnno) Johnson.

(re your claim to be the only 2/30th man in North Queensland, George - the Bn Nominal Roll records 4 other QX men up there.

Jack Chatfield -  who has been mentioned in "MAKAN" from time to time, and who was engaged in the building trade in Cairns, "A" Company, F Force, X1 Tunnelling Party.
Dick Eathorne - was a cane grower at Ayr. He was on "J" Force with me in Japan. He was in Sigs Platoon, . HQ Company.
W.J. Harper - D Company - was Stratford via Cairns, Jack Chatfield was in touch with him at one stage. He was on Blakang Mati.
W.R. Millett - D Company and F Force - The Roll shows that pre-war he was a shop assistant and his Dad lived at Atherton, but we have nothing at all on him after the War.

Would it be at all possible to try to find out about all and let me have their addresses if still alive, please. A.D.)

Where Are They Now?

Arising from the Editor's North Coast Trip we have other enquiries. Is it possible for anyone to let me have the latest on!

B.D. "Joe" Pearce - No. 9 Platoon, A Company
W. Herbert Daly - A Company
"Andy'' Anderson - No.  1 Section, 13 Platoon, C Company
Ted Condie - 13 Platoon
Bill Wallis - 15 Platoon, C Company
C.R. (Mick) Rooney, Pioneer Platoon HQ?

8 Div. Reunion - Tamworth - Saturday/Sunday, 7/8 October

Arch Thorburn says,

Tamworth had its 8th Div. Reunion on Saturday, followed by the Golf Club Diamond Jubilee Diggers' Day on the Sunday of the 2nd weekend of October.

Wal and Freda Eather invited Daphne and me to spend the weekend with them and join in the festivities. This we did and had a most enjoyable time. We were joined on the Friday night by Ron Sweeney and Jimmy Small and Wal’s number 1 daughter, Barbara, and her husband and we reminisced into the small hours.

Wal is the uncrowned King of Tamworth. He was M.C. at the Reunion on the Saturday night and again at the Golf Club function on the Sunday. The guest speaker at the Golf Club explained how Wal had been cured of his nail biting habit - his staff had hidden his false teeth. With us at the 8 Div. show, in addition to Ron Sweeney and Jimmy Small, were Joe and Sybil Johnston, Jim McGoldrick and the "Mayor of Mungindi" - in the person of Ted Rickards. "Rogo" gave a lift to the proceedings with a tuneful rendition of two of our old favourite songs and it threw my memory back to the days, when he used to sing "Begin the Beguine" so feelingly. Ted Rickards impressed everyone with a spirited delivery of several of his poems - there is certainly a wealth of talent there. I saw Ray Michell in the distance but did not have a chance to speak to him. I don't recall ever having been impressed with anyone as I was with Joe and Sybil Johnston. A solid reliable hard working friendly couple, if ever I've met one. They are an adornment to their district in general and to our Battalion in particular.

All in all it was a most enjoyable weekend and Wal and Freda were unbounded in their hospitality.

As ever. Arch.

Stop Press

Word came through this morning, 31st Oct. that Terry O'Rourke, died last night at Narrandera.

WE SHALL REMEMBER HIM

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