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Makan No. 262
15th September, 1981 (July/Sept, 1981)

Official Journal 2/30 Bn. A.I.F. Association

Subscription Rate for Makan for both Life and Annual Members per year: $1.50, '82 onward $4.50 or as set yearly by Executive.

 

COMMITTEE

Photos

Dates For Your Diary

Thurs 8th Oct. 1981 -
2/30 Bn. AUXILIARY ANNUAL MEETING at the rooms of the N.S.W. Ex-Ps.O.W. Association. GOLDBERG HOUSE 101/105 CLARENCE STREET, SYDNEY. Ground Floor at 2 pm.

Wed 14th Oct.1981 -
National Ex-Ps.O.W. Reunion in Sydney. "Get Together" at Victoria Barracks at 6 pm.

Thurs. 15th Oct. 1981 -
National Ex-Ps.O.W. Reunion in Sydney. "Grand Reunion Luncheon" at the A.J.C. Centre Randwick Racecourse. 12.30pm Cost $7.50 per person

Fri.16th Oct. 1981 -
2/30 Bn. ANNUAL REUNION SMORGASBORD at COMBINED SERVICES CLUB, 5 Barrack St., Sydney. Book with JACK BLACK. Cost $8.00 per person.

Sat.17th Oct. 1981 -
2/30 Bn. LUNCH PICNIC at JAPANESE GARDENS, CHISWICK RD. AUBURN. 2144. Let RON MASTON know.

Sun.18th Oct. 1981 -
"B.J." SHIELD BOWLS DAY at BANKSTOWN R.S.L. B0WLING CLUB, Kitchener Pde., Bankstown 2200. Don't forget all Members wishing to participate, please let KEVIN WARD know.

Sun.18th Oct. 1981 -
National Ex-Ps.O.W. Reunion. Commemoration Service at Cenotaph - Assemble in Barrack St. about 10 am march to Cenotaph to commence at 10.20 am

Thurs. 5th Nov. 1981 -
2/30 Bn. AUXILIARY REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING as above at 2 pm.

Sat. 28th Nov. 1981 -
2/30 Bn. Luxury SCHOONER TRIP

Sick Parade

Kevin Ward reports that those; who have been in hospital since last report, and in some cases are still there are:

Ted Bahnsen, Ken Dale, Alex Denholm, Jim Dinnen, Des Duffy, Don Garner (the Lieut. Don), Lofty Gersbach, Bill Gilligan, Harry Green, Bruce Greer, Neil Huntley, Bill Melville, Bob Morrison, Alan Pryde, Ray Rickards, Max Ross, Wally Scott, "Doughy" White, Tom Wright, Tommy Yates, Alex Olley.

If you are sick in hospital, or if you are sick at home and would like someone to call, please advise Kevin. The Hospital Visitors or the Auxiliary Members wish to help you, but are unable to do so, if you forget to tell Kevin.

If it is into Concord, see that you get the admission Clerk to note on your papers, that you are 2/30 Bn., so that this information goes on their Computer.

Acknowledgment of Monies Received

The Sub-heading under this section will show Members' names under the Sub-heading to which you have asked for your funds to be used, and that we will be dealing with them as you set out.

As stated by Phil Schofield & Alex Dandie, we again remind Next of Kin of our Deceased Members, who send in monies for donations, stamps, "Makan" Membership etc., that we are grateful to you for doing this "Naughty but Nice" action. We accept them gratefully because of the thought behind the action BUT we DO NOT EXPECT you to do it. We like to keep in touch because of our feelings towards deceased comrades and it is still our privilege to send you "Makan". We thank you and will make our acknowledgment to you in the listing, as with all receipts. (Jock).

New Life Members

Frank Dyson, Jim Angus

Subs & Makan Fees

Jim Angus, Sid Hart, Les Parfrey, Dick Henderson Florence Bennie

Subs & Makan Fees in Advance

Fred Hume, Ted Campbell, Matt Cranitch, Ted Taig, Billy Douglas, Jim Morgan, Neil Huntley, Ben Pearce, Bruce Campbell, Don Devey, Roy King, Ray Reeves, Keith Chapman, Lloyd Stuart, Don West

Bn. Badges

Jack Black, Jim Morgan, Jim Angus.

Bn. Plaques

Jack Black, Peggy McGoldrick, Chris Conn, Don Garner, Les Hall (2), Don Schumacher, Heather Baxter, Kevin Ward, Shirley Twyford (Gear).

Bn. Ties

Fred Hume.

Malaysian Family

Bill Sorenson, George Aspinall, Col O'Donnell, Jack Maclay, Andy Hyslop, Lady Galleghan, Bruce Ford

Postage for John Korsch's Diary

Vince Leonard, Ray Rickards, Keith Chapman, Joe Noble, Sid Grounds, Jack Black, Derek Smith, Ted Campbell, Clyde Blencowe, "Bluey" Gray, J.M. Williams, Ray Simmons, Lloyd Stuart, Harry Holden, Bert Carter, Jim Saunderson, Matt Cranitch, Les Hall, Ben Pearce, Bruce Campbell, Ross Madden, Sid Hart, Ian Pryce, Wilf Evans, Don West, "Tiger" Sylvester, Jim Morgan, Bob Hanley, Russ Perkins, Joyce Parfrey, Bruce Ford, Gordon Baker.

Donations Towards New Gestetner

Jack Black, Florence Bennie, Frank Dyson, Ted Campbell, Ashley Pascoe, Jock McDougall, Bill Douglas, Frances Ing, Neil Huntley, Ted Rickards, "Blue" Gray, Clyde Blencowe, Ben Pearce, Ross Madden, Ray Reeves, Jack Carey, Sid Hart, Wilf Evans

1981 National Ex-Ps.O.W. Reunion in Sydney 14th-18th Oct 1981

Registration and enrolment fee of $20 per person, or man & wife double $30 should have been in the hands of the Reunion Secretariat , DULCIE STRETTON ASSOCIATES, 70 Glenmore Rd., Paddington 2021, phone 357-6862, by the end of June, extended to the end July.

We give you again the dates of the Reunion Fixtures:

Wed. 14th Oct. -
"Get Together" at Victoria Barracks at 6 pm. This is free of charge.

Thurs. 15th Oct. -
"Grand Reunion Luncheon" at the A.J.C. Centre Randwick Racecourse. Buses leave Wynyard Travelodge at 12 noon, arriving at A.J.C. Centre 12.30 pm for Luncheon at 12.30pm. Cost of this Luncheon will be $7.50 per person. Buses leave A.J.C. Centre at 4pm for Wynyard Travelodge return. No charge, but locals use own car. For Victoria Barracks and A.J.C. Centre, special transport will be provided for disabled, at no cost to individuals, provided notice is given of where you are to be picked up.

The War Memorial at Canberra is providing exhibits such as attap huts., etc. to make things a bit more realistic as well as a lot of other mementoes.

Sun. 18th Oct. -
Commemoration & Dedication Service 11 am at the Cenotaph. 10am gather in Barrack St. 10.20 am Move. Don't forget entry to Wed & Thurs functions requires picking up Reunion Badge from the Registration Centre, Wynyard Travelodge, 9 York Street, Sydney, FIRST.

2/30 Bn. Fixtures for October during National Reunion Ex-Ps.O.W. week

Fri. 16th Oct. -
SMORGASBORD 2/30 Bn. ANNUAL REUNION at 6.30pm at COMBINED SERVICES CLUB, 5 BARRACK ST. SYDNEY

The Cost of this Smorgasbord will be $8.00 per person. As previously stated this Smorgasbord has been arranged instead of the Annual Dinner and has been brought forward to the night of 16th October to enable country members down for the National Reunion to come along.

BOOKINGS to be with JACK BLACK. If you have NOT already done so, please find form on the supplement of this Makan and please fill in and send IMMEDIATELY to Jack Black. Jack has booked for maximum 120, so get in early. Late corners can make own arrangements for meal at separate Disco and join gathering later, but don't be a latecomer. Please get in now.

Sat. 17th Oct. -
2/30 BN. LUNCH PICNIC (BYO) at JAPANESE GARDENS CHISWICK RD. AUBURN 2144 (Gregory's Map ref. Map 49 - K4. Corner of Chisholm St., next door to Bowling Club & opposite School)

Steaks to be provided by the Battalion Auxiliary but please bring salads, rolls etc., yourselves. A slip in the Supplement of this Makan is provided so please fill in and send IMMEDIATELY to RON MASTON to enable the Ladies of the Auxiliary to gauge the number of steaks.

Sun 18th Oct. -
"B.J. "SHIELD BONUS DAY as mentioned in notes for your Diary, this will be held, commencing 9.30am at BANKSTOWN R.S.L. BOWLING CLUB, Kitchener Pde., Bankstown, 2200. This is the same weekend as the concluding 18 Oct. date of the National Reunion, and KEVIN WARD is taking names. There is a form in the Supplement of this Makan, so if you have not already done so please fill in and send IMMEDIATELY to him. We are particularly thinking of George Kinsela, Tommy Davis, Bob Newman, Jack Newton, Clarrie Burgess, Les Perry, Harry Rhodes, Ted Rickards, Joe Veivers, Les Southwell, George Stephenson, Blair Taylor etc., etc., etc.

Sat. 28th Nov. -
Don't forget the SCHOONER TRIP
organised by the 2/30 Bn. Association Auxiliary. They would like a good roll-up to this trip. Leaves Luna Park at Milson’s Point at 10 am. Proceeds down the Harbour to Parsley Bay, where we will have Lunch (BYO). Will be picked up at about 2.30 pm and return to Luna Park Wharf about 4 pm.

Cost $5.00 per person and would all interested people please ring Ron Maston or Fred Johnston.

A Message From Our Patron

I do appreciate the opportunity you have provided me, to say "a few words" in each Makan issued in future.

We have just passed a significant anniversary date - we sailed from Sydney bound for Singapore on 29th July 1941, just 40 years ago; and this year, on 29th July we saw on TV the magnificent spectacle of the wedding of the Prince of Wales and Lady Di.

Perhaps the issue most to be concerned about at present is the National Reunion of Ex-Ps.O.W., to be held in Sydney in October. I'm glad that arrangements are being made for a 2/30 Bn. Reunion Dinner to be held during the same period, (see elsewhere in this Makan), I would like to see quite a number of our friends from other units as our guests on that occasion.

Another feature, of much gratification to me, is the way Gretta Maston and her Committee have so quickly got a "Live" organisation set up with frequent and well organised outings, which should appeal to all. We don't want the ladies to feel they must work on their own in their chosen area, but to the extent that we can give them our support - by attending a monthly meeting on the first Thursday each month , and also by joining in their parties with our wives and families whenever we can. You will find it most rewarding. The Auxiliary is not Ladies only.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to our members on the sick list - may they all be conscious of our support and good wishes to them for a speedy recovery to good health and well being.

Many Blessings to you all,

Noel Johnston, Patron

Lady Galleghan's Proposed Bequest

I have asked Arch Thorburn, who was B.J.'s Solicitor and who is also mine, to revise my will. In it I am providing for up to One hundred thousand dollars to be set aside to purchase a cottage or cottages, to be called "Galleghan Grove” and furnish it or them with the intention that it or they be available for occupation as a holiday home or homes for ex Members of the 2/30 Battalion and/or their families ( such occasions as it or they are not so occupied I propose that a firm of reputable Estate Agents be asked to manage and let it or them to other than 2/30 people and rents received are to go to the 2/30 Battalion A.I.F. Association for its general purposes. No rent will be payable by the 2/30 Bn. people.

I should be glad of suggestions made through Alex Dandie from 2/30 Bn. men as to the location of a suitable cottage or cottages. I feel this is what B.J. would have wished me to do.

Editorial

Typical of her dedication to the interests of Members, Lady Galleghan's very substantial provision in her will for the purchase of a house or houses, as holiday homes for Members and/or their families has been received by your Executive with deep appreciation, and we ask, would Members, as set out by her, let Alex Dandie know of any houses, buildings etc., in any area that would be suitable for this purpose.

There will be much activity in October during the Monster Ex-Ps.O.W. Reunion, and your Executive have thought fit to bring forward the Bn. Reunion Dinner as a Smorgasbord to a date which included these activities, so that country Members may include this and other planned engagements in their visit to Sydney during this period.

The dates of our own activities do not coincide with the Rally’s except in one instance of the Bowls Day at Bankstown on the Sunday 18th Oct., interfering with the Ex-Ps.O.W. Commemoration Service at 11 am on that day.

We ask that as many as possible of members, wives, relatives, widows of deceased members attend these functions, to make the get-togethers happy and meaningful events.

Makan 261 was posted 30th June, 561 copies being posted and 38 copies hand delivered. Total cost of 600 copies was $755.60 or $1.26 per copy.

A new Gestetner was purchased for $1,854 after 3 meetings of a sub-committee and confirmed by your Executive on Aug. 4th. The old Gestetner had finally "given up the ghost", after 15 years of faithful service, and we feel that the new machine, acquired at a very good price, will not only save days in printing of Makan, but will give a better presentation. The hard work & dedication of Chief Correspondent and working party of Makan is valued, not only by your Editor, but, from the letters of appreciation being received from Members, also by all receivers of the Magazine. Any Member that would care to give a donation towards the cost of this new Gestetner, may do so, and it would be gratefully accepted,

The 2/30 Bn. Association Auxiliary has grown in strength and meetings are attended by 23 to 30 members, which shows Gretta Maston and her staff as being hard workers, and they will be highly delighted with your support, in the many interesting activities planned.

Last Post

QX23084 - Pte Les F.S. ("Authentic") Smith

Born 27/5/17, died on 16/12/70.

Our Scribe wrote to Bob Rolfe of Ex-Ps.O.W. Branch at Townsville, in April re Les, who had been at Kobe with him on "J" Force.

Our last contact with Les was in 1968, he then said that he had married in 1949 and had four daughters. Alex asked Bob Rolfe if he could find out more about him and his next of kin for our records.

Bob wrote back and told us that he had died. His widow is Mrs. Josephine Smith, Bowen, Q’ld, 4805. Les or "Authentic" as he was called because he invariably commenced telling any news or making a statement, by telling his audience that, what he was about to tell them, was authentic.

He joined the Bn. on 2/2/42 as 6 RNF to D Company at the Causeway, being one of the "unlucky ones" who sailed from Australia on 10th Jan 1942. He was on No.1 working Party to Thompson Rd., known as No. 5 Camp, then to Caldecott Hill, and River Valley Rd., thence back to Selarang in Dec. 1942. He was then on "J" Force leaving Selarang in June 1943.

On his return to Australia he again worked for Borthwicks having been a clerk, cattle buyer, and salesman for them respectively before reverting to Senior Clerk at Bowen. He was Hon. Sec. to R.S.L. Sub-Branch at Bowen for many years.

We learnt that Bob sent his area rep. to see Mrs. Smith, who said that she had missed the article in B.W.& Bamboo in March, which was picked up by our Scribe. Bob has spoken to her on the phone and learns that she is OK, that Legacy has helped out in the past. As to the question of war widows pension, he is going to get his rep. who is ex 2/20 and was in "D" Force in Thailand, to check up.

We welcome Mrs. Josephine Smith back to the fold. Our only regret is that we have not caught up with you earlier, but now owing to the quite astounding at time, efforts of our Chief Correspondent sleuth, we will have pleasure in sending you a regular copy of Makan.

David A. Dunlevey of Allandale West, Lockhart

Died and was buried at Lockhart Cemetery on 3/7/81 aged 73.

Dave had joined the 21st Light Horse in the Riverina before the war, was a member of its H.Q. Company and known to George Aspinall also a member at that time, as was Bill Brown.

He was in the draft which came from Wagga Training Camp to the Battalion at Tamworth, where he was posted to B Company. He was one who answered a call for volunteers for the Artillery and transferred to 2/15th. He was with us at Gemas however on the 25 Pounders.

NX31738 - Capt. Alf M. Lamacraft

Born 13/7/08, died 8/7/81, in Hospital. Alf was an officer in the 18th Bn. before the war; then came to the Bn. as 2 i/c A Company, from there he moved to Adjutant, and finally became O.C., C Company. He was at Changi, went to Adam Rd., then to River Valley Rd., No.4 Camp, then back to Changi for the duration of P.O.W. days. His wife Marj, predeceased him in 1963 and his mother in 1966. Both these ladies were original members of 2/30 Bn. Comforts Fund.

Alf was Secretary to Australian Institute of Secretaries and enjoyed reasonable health, except for bad internal hemorrhages in 1958, and recently had to go to hospital to have a new joint cushion replacement of his hip.

There were 18 members of the Bn. present at his funeral, with Jean Johnston, Besse Ellis and Cecilie Boss from the 2/30 Bn. Comfort Fund and Purple & Gold Club.

Alf is survived by his son, Richard, and two grandsons, Alan & Graham. We send our deepest sympathy to Richard in his sad loss.

NX30821 - Pte Lindsay Richard ("Red") Hanlon , B Company

Born 21/4/21. Died in Royal Canberra Hospital 27/6/81 aged 60 years.

"Red" was wounded in action 14/1/1942. He was in Great World working party leaving Selarang 23/2/42 under Bob Morrison and then moved to River Valley Road, A Camp 4/12/42. He was in Truck 9 train 5 on F Force with Nugent Geikie, Gordon McKnight, and Robert Newman.

He did not enjoy good health after his return and finally obtained his T.P.I. in 1979

Joan tells us that she and their two daughters, Diane & Annette, were with him daily, when he was in Royal Canberra Hospital for only 6 days before he died, and she adds that he had just too much wrong with him.

We send our deepest sympathy to Joan, Diane and Annette in this sad time for them.

L.F. "Cappy" Bligh - Armourer, HQ Company

Died 8/6/81.

"Cappy" was the Bn. Armourer in Bathurst, but did not sail with us, much to his disgust, as he was pulled out, before we sailed, to instruct other potential armourers. He was in New Guinea during the war and suffered going over the Kokoda Trail.

He had a bad spell in 1972 with a couple of lung operations, and further eye operations in 1980.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth, and sister, Mrs. Dove Edwards (Adelaide) and families. We send our deepest sympathy to Ruth and his Sister.

QX24617 - Pte. R.F. (Dick) Newman - D Company

Born 10/6/16 and died in St. Vincent's Hospital on Sat. 25/7/81. His funeral was held in St. James Church, Toowoomba on Mon. 27th July and Dick Henderson attended, with wreath from the Bn. We understand from Lex, his wife, that he was suffering from terminal cancer, and at the last was under very heavy sedation.

Dick joined the Bn. on 2/2/42 at the Causeway as 6 Rnf. D Company. During P.O.W. days he was in the working party at the Great World, then A Camp River Valley Rd., before going back to Selarang in Dec.1942. He was in Truck 14, No. 5 Train on F Force under Bruce Ford, Ernie Willis, Tommy Yates, Geoff Alcock, and Eric Arps. On his return to Birdwood from F Force he then went on Tunnelling Party X1 Force in Johore.

We received a letter from his wife, Lex, only three weeks before he died, saying how ill he was, suffering from terminal cancer in his bones and spine, and that he was failing. When they lived in St. George District, Dick was a good member of the Ex-Ps.O.W. Association, Ernie McNiven says he was nicknamed "Cowboy".

NX26919 - L/Cpl. E.S. "Ted" Lutz - B Company

Born 12/5/09 and died on 12/7/81, being privately cremated on 14/7/81.

Ted was very interested in baseball and with "Curly" Wright of the Bn. Q Store, the two of them and Jack Maclay were in the baseball team against the 2/26 at Birdwood. He was a good rifle shot and I think he was seconded to H.Q. Company, to help with calibrating our rifles at Batu Pahat.

During P.O.W. days he was at Thompson Rd., then Caldecott Hill and No.5 Camp to River Valley Rd., and back to Selarang. He then went on "J" Force in June 43 and spent a lot of time at Showa Denke graphite works, where work involved was taking little trucks filled with coke to the ovens and filling empty trucks with graphite to make bars for electricity. With all the dust involved, no doubt this could have led up to the lung cancer from which he died.

After the war he was with the P.M.G. Dept., living in Sydney, while his family was living at Yanderra. Eventually he retired from the PMG and took on driving a bus at Picton. He still kept up his interest in baseball, coaching younger players in 1950.

He retired in 1974 and did a bit of rifle shooting and was an active member of the local Bush Fire Brigade at Yanderra. He leaves his wife, Iris, daughter, June, and two sons, Phillip and Allen, and four grandchildren. We send them our deepest sympathy.

Deaths of Next of Kin

Billie Greer - Wife of Bruce Greer - Pioneer Pl. H.Q. Company

We learnt from Ray Simmons of the sad news of the death of Billie, and your Chief Correspondent wrote to Bruce on behalf of the men of the Battalion, extending our deepest sympathy to him in his sad loss. 2/30 Bn. men to attend her funeral were Ray, Arty Power, "Snow" Hampton, Len Clavan, Joe Johnston, and our adopted Sid Jameson {2/18) accompanied by some of their wives.

Henry George (Harry) Deeves - Brother-In-Law to Jerry Myers - D Company

Harry was another 8 Div. Man and the times of the 2 services clashed, so that those at the one funeral were not able to pay their respects at the other, both in the Lismore District.

Mrs. Whitbread - Mother Of Norm Whitbread, C Company - Killed In Action at Mandai / Woodlands Rd., Singapore 11/2/42. (now deceased).

Mrs. Whitbread is survived by her two daughters, Mrs. Forrest and Mrs. Fischer. We understand that over the last four or five years, Mrs. Whitbread could neither read nor hear, and we accept that it was a relief for her to be taken. Our C.C. sent a letter of condolence to her daughters on behalf of Norm's mates on 15/6/31

Mrs. Muriel McDonald - Widow of J.W. (Old Mac) McDonald, who died 1/3/72.

Old Mac's Step-daughter, Mrs. Yvonne Wells, has written to say that her Mother Muriel ("Kim") McDonald had passed away. (We are sorry to hear this sad news. C.C.)

Mrs. Florence Hemming - Mother of Bert & Les Hemming (HQ Company)

Her funeral took place at Rookwood Crematorium on 24 June. We send our condolences to Bert & Les and Les' wife Dorothy in their great loss.

Mrs. Ida Theresa Chipps - Mother of Ron Chipps (C Company) on 15th July. Privately cremated. We send our deepest sympathy to Ron & Florence in their sad loss.

Return Thanks

Bruce Greer - Ballina 2478

"Alex it is a great morale booster to have the support of the men of the Bn. especially in such times of loss. You will notice that Billie left me on my birthday. The floral decoration was very beautiful. Kindest regards to all. Bruce.

Les & Dorothy Hemming

"Your sympathy and thoughtfulness will always be remembered with deep appreciation. She was 95, but had been in a Nursing Home only in the last couple of years."

John & Pam Haskins - Chatham Valley Via Oberon 2787 - HQ

Pam writes, "Thank you for your note of sympathy on Mother’s death, on behalf of the men of the Battalion - it was very much appreciated by John and myself.

Mother had a strong feeling for 2/30th dating back a long way and starting with Ron (Eaton) and later with John, when we married. We had all been expecting her death for some time, but it is still a shock when it does happen.

Again thank you for your letter, Sincerely, Pam Haskins."

Mrs. Marjorie Green - Widow of Jack Green - Lakemba

Marjorie and family say, "Thank you sincerely for your kind thoughts and sympathy in our recent sad bereavement.”

Ron McBurney - Cabramatta 2166 - A Company

The family of the late Mrs. Annie Florence Goodwin McBurney thank all members for the kind expressions of sympathy in the loss of their mother, aged 95 years.

Mrs. Ruth Bligh - Widow of Cappy Bligh - HQ Company – Vaucluse, 2230

Ruth writes to Alex. “Thank you very much indeed for attending the service for my husband, Cappy - you have been wonderful the way you have regularly sent Makan to him. I am very grateful and pleased that you made yourself known to me and if at any time you are out this way, you are more than welcome to pop in.

Cappy was a great friend of Alan McNickle, and his wife, Joan, was at the Church Service - she is a wonderful friend - brought home-made soup and cakes to me and has been a great comfort.

I had a ring from Les Melrose, who was kind enough to visit Cappy one day, and we both appreciated it, as he lived so far from here.

I do thank the 2/30 Bn. so very much for the beautiful floral arrangements that you sent me, it was very much appreciated.

I am enclosing a small cheque in thanks and gratitude for the friendship that you have extended to my husband over the years.

Sincerely yours, Ruth Bligh."

(Thank you on behalf of the Bn. Ruth and the cheque will be put to good use. Please see in this Edition, under "Do you Remember", an article re Cappy, Ed.)

Ron Stoner - Attadale, W.A. 6156 - B Company

Ron follows up from Makan 261 "...Am enclosing a cutting from our morning daily newspaper "West Australian" May 1981, which will no doubt interest you. Ivan Davies, who is Chairman of the Pensions Panel of Perth Legacy, is an unremitting fighter for the Repatriation Pensions for Legacy Widows, and has served us well by getting a pension for Frank Jones' Widow." (Yes Ron this is of great interest to us and therefore we publish in full. Ed.)

Six months after the High Court sat on the Nancy Law appeal test case affecting thousands of Australian Widows of Ex-service men - there is still no sign of a decision.

The Repat. Authorities have admitted that in the meantime they are stalling on pension claims for more than 500 widows.

Some of the affected widows are taking further action in the Federal Court in an effort to force the Repat. Authorities to move.

In the Law case, the full bench of the Federal Court ruled that a pension could not be refused unless it was proved beyond reasonable doubt that the Ex-serviceman's death or disability was not related to his war service.

Link

This has lead to pension claims where a link has been shown between wartime smoking and later death from lung cancer; war time Malaria and later death from leukemia; war time stress; and later heart disease or ulcers.

In each case according to the Law decision, the Repat. Authorities must grant the pension, unless they can prove beyond reasonable doubt that there is no connection.

Yesterday in the Federal Court, Mr. R.J. Meadows, for Mrs. Mona Kelly, said that the Repat. Board in Perth had been refusing to apply the law as laid down by the Court.

“This Board has ignored decisions in the Law Case and has proceeded to deal with applications as in the past, in a way which has been roundly condemned by the Federal Court", he said.

This Board should be directed to deal with the application before it, according to the law as it stands.

Good Reason

Mr. S.W. O'Sullivan, for the Board, said that there were very good reasons for Mrs. Kelly's and other claims to wait till the High Court had given its decision.

He said that the potential loss of revenue could be great, if these widows were granted war pensions and then the High Court later gave a decision reversing the position.

Many widows could be paid money for pension arrears that it could be impossible to recover later.

Mr. O'Sullivan argued that there should be exceptional circumstances before widows could short circuit the appeal system laid down in the Repat. Act by going direct to the Federal Court.

Mr. Justice Toohey said he would give a decision today on whether the Court would deal with Mrs. Kelly's application at this stage.

Mr. Ivan Davies, the Perth Legacy advocate, who has backed many widows claims, said yesterday that success for some had meant $10,000 or more in pension arrears payments.

For some widows who are already getting a civilian widows' pension their change in status simply means an increase of $12 a week, plus some extra medical benefits, he said.

At present the civilian pension is about $64 a week and the war widow's $76.

In other cases where the widow has been working and has had no pension at all, she would get about $3,800 for every year she should have been getting the pension.

One case I dealt with recently meant a payment of more than $10,000 for a widow, who should have been getting a pension since 1978.

The other big advantage for war widows is that their pensions are not means tested. There is no limit on what they can earn, and after the age of 70 they can get both pensions.

It is a funny thing though - many widows who win their appeals appreciate most of all the fact that at last their husband's war service has been recognised.

If it is declared that the husband died of war causes he gets a little bronze plaque carrying his name and particulars in the Garden of Remembrance at Karrakatta.

Ron enclosed another article ex "West Australian", regarding the work of Ian Davies of Perth Legacy, which states:

"A war veteran's widow is spearheading a legal battle involving millions of dollars in pension claims against Repat. Authorities.

Mrs. Isabel Thornton (63) of Martin Drive, Riverdale, is being backed by Perth Legacy in her case. Her action is under a new Federal Law, the Administrative Decisions (Judicial Review) Act, which allows the public to question the workings of Government departments.

Under the Act, where a public servant has a duty to make a decision and has allegedly failed to do so, an aggrieved person can ask the Federal Court to intervene.

In yesterday's hearing of the Thornton case, which, is considered a test case for many other widows seeking pensions, the Federal Court heard of 278 claims worth a total of $49,139,174 depending on the High Court ruling on Mrs. Law.

Mrs. Thornton has been trying to get a war widow's pension since 1978. She said that in April 1980, the Repat. Review Tribunal, after looking at new evidence had asked the commission to reconsider her case. Since receiving letters in August she had heard nothing. Mr. Meadows for Mrs. Thornton said that the Commission was mistaken in the way it saw its role. "It does not have a duty to protect the Commonwealth's revenue or the taxpayers' money", he said, "it's job is to assess whether a pension is payable. If this involves a financial liability for the Commonwealth that should be no concern for the commission. That is a problem for the legislators". Mrs. Thornton has applied to the court to order the Commission to decide her application without delay.

Mr. S.W. O'Sullivan for the Commission told the court that the commission would be in a no-win position if it began pension payments to widows in Mrs. Thornton's situation before the Law Case was finally decided. He said there was no legal right by which the Commission could make the widows repay the pension money, if the High Court found in its favour. It had been five months since the High Court considered the Commission Appeal and a decision was expected soon.

Mr. Justice Fisher reserved his decision after hearing Mr. O'Sullivan's argument.

Krait Appeal Fund

A small boat is touching the hearts of hundreds of Australians as it battles against the odds in the same way as its men did 37 years ago, The Krait, a floating reminder of Australian wartime courage and heroism, may win its battle for survival as donations come in from around the country.

The Krait was used by a highly trained "Z Force" Crew when they attacked shipping in Singapore Harbour on the night of Sept. 26th 1943. This successful operation, and a later attack against Singapore Harbour which failed, earned "Z Force" the admiration of the world and the envious praise of Japanese soldiers. This vessel now serves in the Volunteer Coastal Patrol, N.S.W.

The target of $250,000 to carry out urgent repairs is still a long way off. So far $70,000 has been given towards saving the old fishing boat, coming from children sending their pocket money, ex naval men, your Bn. Association, Japanese ex naval officer, Japanese businessman; and from time to time inspection tours are held to raise more money for the maintenance of her hull.

Your Executive has donated $30 to this appeal, and has asked for publication in your Makan. Anyone wishing to donate further can send direct to, "Krait Appeal Fund”, Box 1984 G.P.O. Sydney, 2001, advising Alex of the amount so that we have a record of the total amount given by Bn. and members.

The 2/30 Bn. Auxiliary is planning an inspection tour of the Krait in the near future.

New Battalion Ties

As mentioned in Makan 261 the supply of Battalion ties has been further investigated and the Committee at its August meeting approved the placement of an order for 200 ties (manufacturers' minimum) with Ensign International Pty. Ltd., a company of good repute.

The new tie will be of full length (not clip-on), in a top quality luxury polyester material, with the 2/30 Bn. colour patch motif on a dark blue background and will be 3¼ inches wide at the base to conform with modern standards for this type of neckwear.

The material for these ties has to be woven in England and this takes time, but the Ensign people are moving Heaven and Earth, as well as Australia Post and Telecom, to have the ties available to us before the National Reunion of Ex-Ps.O.W. in October.

Several potential suppliers were contacted and the best price we could get consistent with quality means the ties will sell for $8.00 each, post free.

The tie will be suitable for all occasions, not only those of an official nature, so there will be plenty of opportunity for wearing it. A keen demand is anticipated.

Send your order now, on the order form inserted with this makan, with your remittance of $8.00 per tie and be regimentally dressed on all occasions.

Small Kindnesses Shown by Your C.C. & Sub Editor

We have received a letter from Mrs. Dulcie Korsch of Grafton, to A.D., together with a cheque "to help with Postage". (Thanks Dulcie received 18/6/81. Ed.). Her letter states, "I have received a letter from Mrs. Vera Roddy, thanking me for sending her a Makan (Oct. issue "Salute to G.G." Ed.) and John's Diary. I have written and told her that you (A.D.) had sent them. She seemed happy to have them. My family and I had discussed sending her one and decided against it, as we thought it may be too upsetting, however she was very happy to have it.

We may have told you that, when we had John's Rock House open for inspection, a man who was interested in Stamps, came from Maclean and recognised Llewellyn Roddy's name on a cross that John had drawn He said that he had been brought up near them at Tumut. I sent it down to him and he sent it to Mrs. Roddy in Melbourne - hence the connection. Mrs. Roddy had mislaid my letter and so wrote c/- Russell at Armidale. Just That. (Small world Dulcie. Ed.) He is well known as he has lived there 16 years. Next week he and his wife and baby daughter move to New Zealand to live.

Yours sincerely, Dulcie Korsch.

Call For Old Mates

Jack Dickenson

Joined the Battalion at the Causeway - C Company. He was on F Force and X1 Tunnelling Party. Mark Flew tells us that he has run into him a few times at the Dee Why R.S.L., but he does not know where he lives. Anyone who may have some information regarding Jack please pass it in so that we may answer the many enquiries made for him.

Arch Dickinson - Turramurra 2974 - C Company

Arch was one of the top 50 of the Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society Salesmen, who attended a convention arranged by their Company in Singapore. A Working holiday you might say.

He naturally paid a visit to Kranji Cemetery and found there by the headstone for C.R. (Chimpy) Bush, the wife of one other of Assurance Society party, and a sister of "Chimpy", Mrs. Crockett of Muswellbrook, that being the town where her husband, as the Society's District Rep., is based.

"Chimpy's" father resided at Denman, at the time when "Chimpy" enlisted. Mrs. Crockett has been given Bob Wells' and Jim McGoldrick's addresses as 2/30 Bn. chaps in the area, but she would like to get in touch with any other of "Chimpy's" mates. Let us know and we will pass it on to her.

H.J. Hogan - Taree, 2430 - HQ Company

His last Makan came back, so can anyone advise us where he is?

G.H. Hold - Seven Hills, 2147 - C Company

His last  Makan came back. He did have a shop at Pendle Hill - telephone book still shows the address as Pendle Hill - can anyone let us know where he is?

NX31689 – L/Cpl Walter Charles Mason – 9 Platoon, A Company

Died at Changi 12/3/44 of Peri-Carditas after "F" Force.

We have received from Walter's brother Derrick a cheque to cover Membership Fee and subscription to Makan. (Received 29/6/81 thank you Derrick and welcome. Ed.)

Walter was an original member of the Bn. at Tamworth - 9 Sect. 9 Platoon A Company. Doc Wilson had given your C.C. half a dozen photos of headstones of graves at Kranji back in 1977. One of these was Walter's, so he sent it down to Derrick, his brother, at Boorowa. Also as your C.C. was Walter's first Corporal, he knew that Jack O'Malley, of Frogmore, was near Derrick. Although Jack O'Malley was on "A" Force, your C. C. has told Derrick to contact Jack, as you know that only about 5/10 km finally separated the two camps of "A" Force and Sonkurai.

Walter was born 9/4/1919 and his father was Walter Leslie Mason & Mother was Florence May Mason of Boorowa. He was promoted to L/Cpl. 2/2/42 at the Causeway. Doc Wilson says that he did not stay with 9 Platoon so he possibly went to 4th Platoon formed at the Causeway. He left Selarang on working party to Thompson Rd., (Shrine job) and was at River Valley Rd. 4/12/42, then back to Selarang Barracks in Dec. 1942. He was on No. 5 train F Force (Major Johnston) truck 20 (Capt. Ron Maston & Sgt. Stuart Robertson of Tooraweenah, L/Cpl Tom Massey of Merrylands & L/Cpl Harry Riches of Brunswick Heads 2483) and finished up at Shima Sonkurai No. 1 Camp in Thailand, "F' Force, returned to Selarang in Dec.1943 and we have no records of 'drome working parties. He died 12/3/44 of inflammation in the membrane which encloses the heart, and we feel sure that with the above information, anyone, who recalls incidents of Walter, could get in touch with his brother Derrick, through Makan or direct.

NX71313 Pte. J. Grant

"Joe" Geoghegan has set us a curly one, Bob Grant, of Blacktown would like to know something about his brother, NX 71313, Pte. J. Grant. We have no record of him. The only Grant whom we have is Tommy. As you all know the original rolls were all destroyed on 15/2/42, and new ones had to be made out at Changi, when we knew that we retained our own Unit organization, and these, we use now.

However Joe has shown us a photo of him leaving the "Johan" at Singapore amongst 2/30 Bn. blokes; and a record, which the family has, shows that he was at G.B.D. in its B Company, as one of 2/30 Bn. reinforcements. His Mother was then living at Lakemba.

So put those memory taps on, as "Joe" would like to he able to trace some record of him for his brother. Please let Alex. know.

Athol Carey - Carlton 2218 - A Company

Athol is finding it a little difficult to catch up with old mates, because, as batman to John Meillon, he was with him, when John was Liason Officer with the 27 Bde. Headquarters. He would like anyone, who remembers him of old, to ring him.

He says that he was with the 2/2 T.Bn. at the Sydney Showground, when he enlisted; that he was selected by "B.J." although he went to Tamworth first, at Manilla Rd. John Meillon picked him as batman, so that in Malaya he was at Segamat with 27 Bde and moved back with it as the fighting came down the peninsular.

At Changi, Athol was more or less a permanent on the water carrying parties, on the table top trucks down to the beach. He went up to Thailand on "H" Force, and pays tribute to "Bull-frog", W.O. Bruce Johnston, for the way that he slaved to help 2/30 Bn Men; Athol was on the rock work in the cutting in that camp.

He was at Sime Road on return to the Island, then to the Gaol itself, three to a cell. He was one troubled by ulcers, and went over to work in the gardens at Kranji Hospital, where he remained until Lord Mountbatten came. He returned to Australia by ship and went into the hospital at Merrylands, previous to it's use for Ps.O.W., a hospital for Americans.

John Meillon cared for many photos that Athol had taken in Malaya pre-war and brought them home, so that Athol now has two prized albums of them.

Do You Remember?

J.M. Williams – Sefton, 2162

First President of Ex-Ps.O.W. Association. Was on "A" Force with William's Force. Writes in thanking Alex for John's Diary and sends a nice cheque to cover postage. He had borrowed a copy from United Services Institute Library, but was most pleased to receive a copy for his own library. He says posting a copy to all members is a great idea.

John "Scotty" & Marj Harris – Awaba, 2283 - Mortars

Scotty writes, "You mentioned in your Birthday Card of Ray Duncombe's bereavement of his wife. A prayer for you and yours Ray.

On the nights we slept out on the verandah roof, I remember them well. We made special beds, legs on the beds only on one end to take up the angle of the roof. There was a drop of 20 feet off the verandah. The need to sleep there was forced on us by bed bugs. Besides Ray and Joe Geoghegan there were Jimmy Hill and "Digger" Preen and Darky Despoges -- Great Mates."

Ray Duncombe – Balmain, 2041 – Sigs, H.Q. Company

Ray says Joe Geoghegan and I were on the Tunnelling Party in Johore when peace was declared and we used to sleep on the roof of the verandah with about a 30 foot drop to the ground, if we started to slide. (The story gets better and reminds your Ed. of the old fish yarn, what about it, Joe?). "Cock" Harris also slept out there and one morning I awoke and he was rolling up his blanket, but there was no sign of Joe. I queried his absence and "Cock" said, "Oh we went in when the downpour came on, and Joe didn't come out again, you slept through it".

Levis Frederick "Cappy" Bligh – 1st Bn Armourer, H.Q. Company

Deceased June 1981. See Last Post and Return Thanks Sections.

"Cappy" Bligh was pulled away from the Battalion at Bathurst to do instructing of Armourers to be. He was disgusted at not sailing with us.

He suffered going over the Kokoda Trail.

Ruth his wife was with the 6th Aust. Gen. Hospital, from when it was back from Greece to Australia, and then the islands.

"Bill" Dainton - French's Forest, 2086 - D Company

Details about Bill, unknown to your scribe, although some of his mates might have known, have come to hand, in that Bill used to work for a Golf Club, before he enlisted, and on his return to Australia and going back to work with the Club, his pay, for when he was away, was made up, even although there was no obligation on the Club to do so. He was put on to the job of steward, but later took charge of the bar on a sort of franchise arrangement. Luck was still with him, later, because he shared in a big Lottery prize, and with his share bought himself a new Holden. He used to live at Roseville, then at Chatswood, until later he built the house in French’s Forest, where he and his wife, Thelma, lived until he died in 1970, and which she kept on until, in her turn, she died in 1979.

Reminiscences of Your New Editor

Round about 19th May a phone call was received from a gentleman known not unkindly as "Bomb happy". He asked the writer would he consider helping out, because of Alex’ state of health, by becoming Sub Editor of "Makan".

As I was about to offer my services "gratis" to the Mosman Council to do a stint of helping-out people with problems, sickness etc., I told him I would consider the proposition and phone him back. This I did next day, and the gentleman thanked me and said he would let the Sub-committee know and ring me back. When he phoned me back he said, "Thank you for offering to become Chief Editor, Alex has agreed to continue as Chief Correspondent and become a Sub-Editor, and Bert Farr will be able to assist you as Sub-Editor. After this conversation I altered my opinion of myself. I always considered that I was a good Salesman, but that Gentleman can run rings around me, and I now duly acknowledge the better man. That triple by-pass, has done some good, as it has made him even more enthusiastic than he was in training, amongst the rubber at Batu Pahat, yelling out "Take cover, Bombs coming!". For those of you who didn't know, hence the nickname.

I attended Alex’ home on 26th May and learnt that Makan 261 was ready to be collated, stencilled, and printed. To borrow a phrase used by Don MacIver from Makan 261, when he became Assistant Bowls Secretary of his Club, "...and I have wondered what in the hell has hit me."

So that you may visualise your very new and ignorant Ed., I joined the Bn. as reinforcement during final leave at Bathurst. When I went to report at 8pm to the one light showing in an orderly room in the Camp, I was met by Sgt. Wal Eather, who said, "Hello McDougall! Goodbye! You are on final leave, and you have three days before you come back." Then 13 Platoon, C Company from Gemas to Tyersall Palace; worked at Adam Rd., River Valley Rd., "F" Force at Sima Sonkurai, 'drome, and came back on "Oranje", the hospital ship. This was because of Beri-beri, Malaria and Jaundice at the time of the Jap capitulation, John Taylor not wishing me to contaminate the rest of the Bn.

I am now retired after 40 years at Clifford Love & Co., and my wife, Jacquie, welcomes me having the Makan job, as it keeps me out of her hair for some days per month, and I can be seen as the elderly bloke, white haired, and with a moustache.

My thanks to Alex for his untiring advice and patience, with kindliness, the workers of Makan, Jack Maclay, Dutchy Holland, Ken Forward, Les Hemming, Ray Rickards, Bob Surtees, Tommy Yates, Ron Maston, Reg Nossiter, Bert Farr, and especially Marion & Ray Brown and those stalwarts, Jean and Fred Johnston, the typistes of the stencils, Mrs. Jennifer Cox and Linda, Doc Wilson's daughter, and Mrs. Val Pew, for the days of work put into getting Makan 261 to you by 30th June, or rather posting same on that date, when we found that a mail delivery strike was starting that night.

I apologise for the mistakes in Makan 261 and can only say that the rush of collating, checking stencils and my ignorance of the work involved, made them. However time will tell, we would appreciate any suggestions, that any of you may feel like making, for better reading of Makan and look forward to your news and doings in the future. Only you can make our Makan talk Jock.

A Comment from Your New Sub Editor

Like Jock I was approached in the same suave way by the same gentleman of smooth manner and asked if I could assist in some small way with "Makan" in what seemed to be a time of crisis. Naturally I said I would help, if things were desperate.

Like Jock, I was later informed of my appointment to this illustrious office of Sub Editor. Unlike Jock, I am not a salesman, but obviously an easy mark for one. Perhaps I made an error, in mentioning in a Letter to Alex Dandie that I really understood and appreciated the enormous effort he had put into "Makan." because I was a secretarial type.

By way of reminiscences, a few points may be of interest. It would seem that I was destined for the Army from birth. In 1919 my Dad sought names for his new born son, the sixth of seven children. With the family name supplying the last initial F, a brother of Dad's, just back from World War I, named Albert, supplied the A, and in desperation Dad changed the conventional Erwin to Irwin to supply the I, so, from the beginning, I was branded "A.I.F." In 1937 I joined the C.M.F. and probably because the voluntary militia was not rushed as a great outdoor recreational activity in those days, promotion through the ranks was rather rapid. As a raw graduate from O.C.T.U. Narellan in September 1940 I was posted to the Officers Training School in the old Scout Camp in Pennant Hills. It was from here that the "Old Man" selected some of his officers following his appointment to command the newly created 2/30 Bn. A.I.F. So “A.I.F.” joined the A.I.F.

Training in Tamworth and Bathurst; the journey on the "Johan van Oldenbarnevelt" to Singapore; the period of acclimatisation training in Malaya; the few days leave enjoyed with Graham McLeod in the Cameron Highlands; the exploration of the exciting pre war city of Singapore with Johnny Kreckler; the camps at Batu Pahat and Mersing; the battle at Gemas; the pounding of Singapore; the capitulation; the days in Changi; the sea voyages to Mergui and Tavoy with "A" Force; the Burma Railway; Thailand; V.J. Day; unforgettable events from those unforgettable years. So we should not be short of material for the "Do you remember?" pages of future "Makans".

But in recalling the past let us not forget the present. Readers of "Makan" are very interested in what has happened to you since the war, and how you and your families are faring today.

So, as Jock says - "only you can make "Makan" talk" and you can talk of many things. Keep sending your news and views to our Chief Correspondent, Alex and we will take it from there.

Frank Silver – Coalcliff, 2515 - C Company

Alex showed me a photo of some of 15 Platoon, published for Frank some years ago in "Barbed Wire & Bamboo". It had me a bit puzzled on a few names so I took it to the old Maestro, Schoie, who couldn't tell me off hand, so I posted it up to Rogo Sweeney. However as we are about to stencil ready for printing and the mails being how they are, and furthermore the old Maestro came good after a week or so, and here are the names of 7 Section, 15 Platoon, C Company as they are in the photo, taken at Batu Pahat in 1941.

Back row L/Cpl Ron Sweeney, Albert Griffith, (died 4/3/81), Frank Reardon, (died B Force), George Quirk (died F Force 24/10/43), Cpl. Rupert Hanna, (died F Force 15/5/44) Fred Purse (Killed in Action 16/1/42 - Gemas/Fort Rose).

Front Row Sgt. Ted Jennings, (killed in action 28/1/42 Sempang Rengam), Jimmy Small, Frank Silver, Arch Dickinson.

Our thanks to the old Maestro for the information.

Jim Saunderson - Sans Souci, 2219 - A Company

Jim is appreciative of the John Korsch Diary, but says that it does not depict all that he had to go through. Jim was not in the Hospital Camp at the 55 kilo, but worked right through up to the joining of the lines, and at no time in the jungle did his team have contact with the natives.

He was sent back from Kanburi about 100 miles up in the hills. He cannot recall any 2/30 Bn. Men with him and says that they were mainly 2/19 Bn. It was an interesting camp in some ways, nearby were caves formed into a Pagoda, and there was a moveable pagoda with the Buddha on wooden rails and on wooden wheels. Jim was unfortunate in that he missed seeing his brother at that time, as Jim was going back up the river as his brother was going down, it would have been a day or so in the timing, but otherwise they would have met at Tamarang. It was quite a long time after the Jap. Capitulation before Jim's party was released, but they did not get any change of clothing before they reached Singapore on the train. He remembers that his shorts, were hardly descriptive of being shorts; his shirt was green in colour, but it was all a mass of patches; for boots he had one brown Australian Army Boot, size 8, the other, a black Indian Army type, size 9; naturally no socks. They looked scarecrows, and some Recovery Team men there to meet them, turned away with smiles, because of the difference with their own neat uniforms. Colonel Ramsay was there looking for any of his "A" Force men, and was pleased to see Jim. While Jim and "G.G." were talking, George suddenly said, "Good Lord - Lord Louis!" Lord Mountbatten had come along, and Jim said that he had quite a long talk with him; he was asking many questions to find out what the conditions on the Line had been for Jim.

J .W. (Old Mac) McDonald - 16 Platoon - Died 1/2/72

Bruce Ford well remembers "Old Mac". He came to the unit at Bathurst and Bruce was required to report on the "new Recruit", as to how he fitted in, to Bob Morrison.

"Old Mac" had been a wheat farmer at Quandialla before the war and went back to that Work afterwards, though he did not become a rich man from his efforts.

Bruce says that he was a bit crotchety but very well liked. He remembers one day at Changi Gaol in the attap huts, when the tucker was light, "Old Mac" came down the hut, carrying his dixie of rice looking very morosely at it, and Bruce said to him, "What have you got there, Mac?" and drew the reply, "A bloody ham sandwich. What do you think?". Still he was a good soldier and a good bloke.

(Page 11 – “Deaths of Next of Kin" reports death of "Old Mac's", wife, Kim and has led to this anecdote.)

George H. Brown - Wagga Wagga, 2650 - A Company

Your previous Ed. regrets & apologises for his mistakes, for here's George’s full account of how he did NOT go into the Great World working party, but to St. Andrews School.

"I left Changi in a truck convoy soon after arriving out there. Can't remember whether Bob Morrison was in charge or not. On the way into Singapore, a few of the trucks turned into a short side road. A large number of men from the forward trucks were lined up on the side of the read in 2s or 3s and counted off by the Japanese. A Jap officer came along right opposite my truck and gave instructions in Japanese for the men to split into 2 parties. Not understanding what he meant and amongst the confusion, the officer drew his sword and started making motions of chopping through the file. From my vantage point in my truck I could see what he wanted, so jumped down and moved the troops into 2 sections. The next thing I knew; I am detailed to go with one of the groups. I grabbed my gear off the truck and took command of the group and followed the Jap Corporal down the short road into St. Andrew's School. When we arrived we found about 120 men and 2 officers in the group, the other Officer being Ted Weller of 2/26 Bn.

Another Jap Lieut., who spoke reasonable English, came ever. He said he wanted the party split into 2 groups each of 60, one to stay at the school, the other to go to Nee Soon. I had a talk to Ted Weller and he took his 60 to Nee Soon & we stayed at St. Andrews. I said, I don't think anyone knew we were there, as we had no contact with any HQ establishment, 'til the ‘armed party incident' some months later.

The 'armed party incident' happened because of the large stack of ghee in tins on the Padang of the school. The Indians & Chinese used to steal in at night to pinch it, despite the Jap guards & our piquets. When the Japs got tired of all the stealing they came to

my room one night about midnight and wanted an NCO & 10 man. I was horrified when the Sgt. & his men returned & told me they had been issued with 303s and 10 rounds each, and led off on a patrol to search for pilfering Indians. (Only those, who know of the Japanese NCO mentality, can believe this. Ed.) The ramifications of this action were tremendous & we had no contact with our HQ. I had to wait until the weekly ration party came round. I spoke to the British O.C. on this party, and told him of the incident & asked him to send me an interpreter. About a week later he duly arrived and it became possible to explain to the Jap Corporal that "such capers" were NOT ON. This Corporal was very good to us while we were at St. Andrew's & I was anxious not to make him appear foolish (not for his sake but for ours.) All went over peacefully & we had no more trouble. We left St. Andrews for River Valley Rd., thence Changi."

2/30 Bn. Association Auxiliary Outing to Gledswood, Monday 3rd August

Thirty four went on the trip, most meeting at the Town Hall, City where we met the Coach at 9.30am - waited another ten minutes for Tommy Yates, but couldn't wait any longer because of Traffic problems. There was a slight sprinkle of rain, which didn't appear to spoil the expectancy for a good day's outing, nor the smiling faces.

Stopped at Petersham & picked up Ray Duncombe; Ashfield for Georgina & Joe Geoghegan and sister-in-law, Toddy Harper. Next stops Bankstown to pick up Mollie & Ken Forward; Yagoona for Dutchy Holland, and Warwick Farm for Vera and Ray Rickards.

This made 34 and we proceeded along Hume Highway until we came to Greens Motorcade at Narellan, conveniently for morning tea, afterwards we were given an explanatory tour of the 50 odd Vintage Cars, and 20 motor bikes, which are all in tip top condition.

We also visited the old Blacksmith's Shop, Music Room, Fire Station, with two ancient Fire Engines and the old Railway Station. They have really worked hard to give the whole place a wonderfully interesting & well kept look, including some very beautiful peacocks.

Back in the coach at 12.30 pm and off to "Gledswood" at Catherine Fields. Gledswood is a convict built house about 170 years old, it has Australian Cedar throughout and totals 90 squares in area. It was the home of James Chisholm, and is classified by the Heritage Commission and National Trust. It is the only Heritage Homestead open to the general public 7 days a week.

It has a farm and a splendid old barn type dining area where we had lunch; gas barbequed steaks, ham steaks and turkey steaks, with nice salads etc., and wine. Before lunch a wine tasting was held and by the clink of the bottles n the coach racks going home, appeared to he quite successful. The steaks at lunch were very tender and every one enjoyed them.

We arrived back at 4.45pm at the Town Hall, after dropping off the above named people on the way back. Those attending were also Pat & Reg Nossiter; Betty & Bruce Ford, Jean & Fred Johnston, Gretta & Ron Maston, Joan Crispin & daughter, Ruth, Cliff Houghton, Jacquie & Jock McDougall & Jock's sister. Joan Bartlett, June Dandie, Madge Napper, Grace Ford, Norma Christensen, and her friend Vera Lauder, Dorothy & Les Hemming, Dot Paget, Heather & Max McClelland and Thelma Jones.

The Auxiliary's next Functions

Planned visit to Thirlmere on Sun. 20th Sept. to see the Train Museum, of which George Aspinall is a Director and will show us around. Be on 8.05am Goulburn train, Central to Picton. Cost $3.10 & child 7Ocents. At Picton buy return ticket to Thirlmere cost $4.00 & child $2.00. Train leaves Picton for Central at 5.24 pm and reaches Central 6.50pm. Bring lunches.

Items of News From Here & There

Read in the local Times of a happy event, "God works in mysterious ways. No one knows why, to young men living south of the harbour and vicky verky. However that may be, CATHERINE EATON, daughter of BETTY & RON EATON of Gordon, and a former Ravenswood girl has announced her engagement to SIMON GOODINGS, commodities broker of Vaucluse, and former Cranbrook boy. They have fixed January 21 next year for the wedding, which means the Harbour Bridge toll is going to benefit nicely. (Our Warm congratulations to Catherine and Simon and best wishes for their future happiness. Ed.)

Seen in the local Lismore paper Another happy event, Jack & Win Korn of South Lismore, have much pleasure in announcing the engagement of their youngest daughter MARGARET MAIEE to CLYDE JOHN youngest son of Jim and Narelle Garrett of Alstonville. (Congratulations to the happy couple Ed.)

Jim Rutherford – Crawley, W. Aust. 6009

Jim of 2/29 Bn and ever popular friend of ours, and a continual donor to our funds, relinquished the Chairmanship of  William Adam & Co. Ltd. on 20th Aug. 1980 but still continues as Chairman of William Adams Tractor subsidiary. You will all remember the deep sepulchral voice of the "no nonsense Jim." Member of "F" Force at Sonkurai; and his getting jobs for any out-of-workers, when we came back.

Mr. J.H. Greenwood, O.B.E. M.Ec. (Hon. Sydney)

In N.S.W we are fortunate to have as the Deputy Commissioner for Veterans' Affairs since 1975, Mr. James Harold Greenwood O.B.E., who was honoured by the Sydney University recently by having conferred upon him an Honorary Degree of Master of Economics.

Jim is a very highly respected and popular Deputy Commissioner who joined the Dept. of Veterans' Affairs in 1958 and who has held the positions of Secretary, Repatriation Commission 1958-60, Deputy Commissioner, Department of Repatriation 1961-68, Deputy Chairman Repatriation Commission 1968-75 and Deputy Commissioner, Department Veterans' Affairs N.S.W. since 1975.

He was a prisoner of war (J) 1942-45, and is a member of the N.S.W. EX-Ps.O.W. Association.

The Honorary Degree of Master of Economics was conferred by Sir Herman Black, Chancellor of Sydney University on 14th February 1981. Our congratulations Jim, and we all wish you well.

Gordon J. Cruickshank

Saw a photo in "VIC EDDY" the Sigs Magazine, of "BOOZER” (?) Gordon J. Cruickshank. Checking our records we find NX36645 Pte. Gordon J. Cruickshank, original HQ Company, Sigs, transferred to 8 Div. Sigs, 10/1141, now living at Northbridge. He is still looking well by the photo, and, this news is for other Sigs. Alan Charlton, Jack Conn, Ray Duncombe Jack Grossmith, "Steamboat" Kirton, Jack Lonie, "Hank" Massey, Les Melrose, Jack Moloney, Cecil Palmer, Lyell Powys, Frank Rampling etc.

Stan & Dorothy Arneil – Collaroy, 2097 - A Company

Aft re-reading the following in Sun Herald 12/7/81, "The writers group, International PEN is holding a contest to find books that turn people away from T.V. violence and towards human understanding. The non-fiction list included Stan Arneil's ONE MAN'S WAR, Ronald McKie's ECHOES OF FORGOTTEN WARS and Gavin Souter's COMPANY OF HERALDS. I phoned Stan, interrupting his home painting job, to see if I could go and see him, to find out more about what is happening with his Book.

He told me that altogether 37 books were submitted to the PEN contest and that he was then in the running amongst the 6 finalists, and he would know the result by 7/8/81.

I phoned him on 11/8/81 and he told me he had won the contest, known as the Peter Stuyvesant International Cultural Foundation $1000 PEN Literary Award. He also added that his book was being considered for a film by the A.B.C.

Stan said that he and "Curly" Blomfield were going up to Ballina by bus for the Reunion - I also heard that a couple of flasks may have to be taken on the trip - I did hear for snake bite treatment, but am not sure that my hearing was correct.

One of our Reporters says that a Melbourne paper contains an item in the Birth Notices, and it appears that "Horse" has a grand-daughter. Remember it took Reg Ellis to tell us, when "Horse's” first baby arrived, and Reg stoutly averred, "it is definitely not true that the little dear was born with a bridle around its little neck", and Clare Dorothy Arneil was that first babe.

Now that Melbourne announcement says, "PETTIGREW (nee ARNEIL) to Clare and Stuart a daughter, Alison Clare, Born 13/7/81 at St. Andrew's Melbourne".

Our felicitations to the happy couple and no doubt the proud grandparents.

Muriel O'Rourke - Petersham 2049 - Widow of Terry

Muriel left Sydney in the middle of June for a trip overseas; present planning is for three months or so, but depending on circumstances, she may extend the length of her stay.

Gordon & May Savage – Paskeville, S. Aust. 5552 – C Company

Both were over in Sydney for a holiday, phoned May, Alf. (Gordon) being under the shower, and had a good talk to her. She said that, although she was born in Ireland, she is now a dinky-di Australian, being a member of the Aust. Old B's. We referred this information to Jack Maclay, who will phone her and compare cards.

She said that Gordon and she were over on holidays from Paskeville for a couple of weeks, staying with friends at Chatswood. They have been married for 35 years, Gordon meeting her while on a trip in 1946 to UK via South Africa. He hasn't enjoyed the best of health lately, and after having cataract operations in both eyes has to wear special glasses, and only has frontal vision, and that he can't wear contact lenses. His great mate was Kel Anderson of Dubbo. Our records show that Gordon was it Changi at A.G.H. in April 1943 with severe synovitis, of the left knee, and that he was on X1 Tunnelling Party with Kel.

(Kel may like to further reminisce in the next Makan. Ed.)

Ray & "Tup” Michell – Tamworth, 2340 - B Company

Your scribe was given a programme of the Moree Race Club's Centenary Meeting of Aug. 1st 1981. It has a large Silver Cup on the front page. "Tup" Michell found the Cup in her box room.

It belonged to an "ancestor". The cup is dated "1881 - Moree Racing Club", hence the “Centenary Cup". Ray and "Tup" were guests of the Committee at lunch, at the Official Presentation. The 1881 Cup was featured on Northern Television as a promotion for the Meeting.

Steve & Gwen Allardice – Beecroft, 2119 - HQ Company

Read in the Northern District Times - "Voted in as organising secretary for the 6th year, Mrs. S.R. ALLARDICE of Beecroft and the other secretary of the Womens' Auxiliary of Sydney Legacy, Mrs. J.C. Pryce of Wahroonga, will be working towards a big art exhibition early next year. The main aim is to maintain Legacy Holiday House at Moss Vale, formerly used for young war orphans and their mothers, now used by war widows.

At the weekend Mrs. Allardice and her husband were part of a working bee at the Moss Vale property, helping with painting and gardening jobs.

News, Views, And Who's Who

Alfred Charles Noakes - Point Clare, 2251 - HQ Mortars

Wrote a short note enclosing cheque (Thanks Alf received 29/5/81 Ed.), advising of his new address (in supplement Makan 261) saying "I'm no correspondent, so will just send cheque and best wishes to all," A.C. Noakes.

Clyde & Mollie Blencowe – Tumbarumba, 2653 - D Company

Clyde sent a short note "enclosing cheque for subs and kindest regards to al1.” (Thanks Clyde received 28/5/81 Ed.)

R.N. "Ben" &. Mildred Pearce – Sawtell, 2452 - D Company

Ben says, "sorry if I'm late with subs., but I have been roaming around a little and lost track of a few things. Nevertheless, "Better late than never". All things are fairly well with me at present. Have been speaking with "Kingie" Martin & "Darby" Young by phone, they seem to be keeping alright. Darby is busy settling into his new home at Coffs Harbour. News is scarce, so please find cheque to cover fees and whatever, Thanking you, R.N. "Ben” Pearce.

(Now received Ben 26/6/81 with thanks. Ed.)

R. Bruce & Dorothy Campbell - Port Macquarie, 2444 - Transport

Bruce writes "I am sending down 3 years subs for Makan, (Thanks Bruce received 26/6/81 but with the rise in Makan fees next year, this may not stretch the distance, but will let you know in due course. Ed.) "balance for welfare. I am well and keeping busy. We are going for another trip in October, back to Singapore and Hong Kong also Thailand, Penang and Manilla. I saw Neil Huntley the other night. He has been a bit sick of late and reckoned he nearly saw the other world

My regards to everyone, Yours Sincerely, Bruce Campbell"

Bruce & Marjorie Pratt – Bathurst, 2795 - D Company

A letter from Bruce to Bruce Ford says "...I regret that for the first time since we came to Bathurst, we were not there for Anzac Day. I retire at the end of the year and with property in England and a daughter living there permanently and property in Australia and a son living here permanently, we are rather pulled both ways. The hassle of moving to England is countered by the fact that with the cooler climate and softer light there, I suffer with fewer of the headaches, with which I am plagued out here, and so it is something of a dilemma all round.

The above is a preamble to the fact that my daughter was coming home in April for a visit and we were to have a family conference to decide, what would be the best move. Unfortunately the only weekend and place which suited ourselves and others concerned was Anzac weekend at Canberra.

The long dry summer had played havoc with the Cairn, but we painted the fence and got the grass and surrounds in reasonable condition for Anzac Day.

(Hope all is now satisfactory, Bruce, don't forget the winter in England is no colder than Bathurst, the only difference is that the dark at 4 pm. Ed.)

Ross & Mollie Madden - Armidale 2350 - A Company

Ross’ news is: “Here I am at last, things up this way have been a bit on the busy side for the Maddens. First we had the two grand daughters arrive within a week of one another.

Molly had a week with Judith, when she first came home froth hospital, and then went on to Sydney for a few days, which she enjoyed very much. Then we had a visit from a cousin that I had not seen since 1946, so all the Maddens had their ears hotted up for a few days.

The weekend before last (letter dated 26/5/81) we had both families home for the weekend - not a dull moment - and an inch and a half of rain this weekend, which is very pleasing.

While Molly was down at Judith's she met a friend of hers; the name of A. Brace was mentioned and that he had died about 5 years ago. "Albert". I notice we had a Brace that died July 1975. Was he not a member of A Company? (NX47750 - Pte. ALBERT ERNEST BRACE, 18 Platoon, came to the Bn. in Tamworth, but when they broke up the Companies to form E Company 1st. Reinforcements, he must have been placed in D Company Reinforcement Platoon, because Andy Noble also shows that he embarked on Johan on 29/7/41 as 1st. Rnf. Phil Schofield knew a bit about him when he wrote his obituary in Makan 223 July/Aug 1975, since Phil had been Sgt. 18 Platoon before becoming C.S.M. of C Company). His wife's name is Betty and she lives in Warner’s Bay 2282.

Please find the necessary enclosed to keep me in front and help the good cause (Thanks Ross received 29/5/81 Ed.)

Talking to Reg Milner a week or so back. He looks a picture of health. Ray Reeves the same, and off on a fishing trip. I was speaking also to Mrs. Pankhurst, who said Bill was keeping well.

Not forgetting William Humphrey, he called the other day on his way from a job he is doing up this way, keeping well and heading out for a game of golf after dinner.

As to us here at No.9, not too bad after a bout of what some call "the drought wog".

Bill Humphrey brought round an unpublished copy of John Korsch's Diary for me to read and I found it very good, very descriptive, especially to anyone on A Force, one can compare one's own living and work standards to the other, whatever one's Force.

Alex can you tell me where Ron James came from? I thought it was Lismore but not sure.(NX29189 Pte. Ron T. James, 23 yrs, A Company - N.O.K., Father, Mr. William James, Chelmsford via Lismore; sailed in the "Johan"; was in No. 3 Company under Capt. Boss to Mt. Pleasant. Went on "F" Force to Shima Sonkurai - reported AWL with S/Sgt. McGregor B Company; Maurice Landow, Cook, HQ Company; Mal Maudsley, A/A HQ Company; J.A. Franklin, D Company, and C.M. Wilson, A Company on 31/5/43. Believed that all "died of injuries". Ed.)

Well I think that is about all for now, hoping you are keeping as well as can be expected.

Regards to all, Ross Madden.

Don & Betty Devey – Matraville, 2036 - HQ Company

Betty gives us the news, "For three weeks this envelope has been sitting on the desk waiting for Don to enclose a note - so before the cheque is out of date I will - as usual - do it for him.

What a pleasure it was to meet you at the gathering in Centennial Park. As always after such get-togethers, one wonders why there are not more held, but the pressure of modern living has its drawbacks, too much to do and not enough time.

Don says that the money is a couple of years subs. for Makan, rest for kitty. He sends regards to all and is keeping well. His punishment for me having to do this was "get tea," its now on the table. Sincerely Betty.

(Betty "dinna fash yersel", many of the men folk do likewise, but thank the Good Lord we have wonderful wives like you - the unpaid secretary. C.C. - Glad to see that you are standing up for your rights, Betty, hope the tea was good. J.)

Les Hall – Harbord, 2096 - HQ Company (Sigs.)

Les has been chuckling at the vagaries of Lady Luck. He says that he is not one to be successful in guessing competitions etc., but a little while ago he was asked by a couple of schoolgirls to buy a ticket in a local raffle. He normally refuses these approaches, he says, because he has a couple of pet charities, which he supports. However they said that it was the last ticket in the book. He could see that, so he forked out.

Well, Les only won 2nd prize - an Electric Wall Oven and Hot Plate, valued at $200. Les' disadvantage is that the Unit, where he lives is fitted out for gas appliances.

Jimmy Dinnen – Greenacre, 2190 - B Company

Jimmy has been stricken with Dupuytren trouble with the tendons of his hands, and has had a session in Concord.

Col "Squire” & Kath O'Donnell - Dalveen Q. 4374 - C Company

Col was grateful to receive his Birthday Card and writes from Cairns, "71, never thought I would reach it. I am feeling 100% except for my bloody legs, which develop cramp after 25 yards walking. (Try the mothball trick Col, it works with me, see under Lloyd & Phil Stuart this issue for recipe, or be like Schoie and hit it with a few Highlands. J.) Col continues, "Kath & I are staying here until 28 July. We come up each year to escape the cold at Dalveen. You have done a wonderful job as Editor of Makan, and we all are very indebted to you. I feel that your approach to members has been responsible for building up the family feeling that was so marked at the Tamworth Show. I am sorry that my proposal of you for Life Membership, upset you, I wanted to show my appreciation of your efforts for the Association. I hope Jock can cope with the job half as well as you have. (So do I, J.)

I will ring Boyd McKinstry in Toowoomba on my return to Dalveen, regarding Dick Newman's wife. I know Boyd well, but have no knowledge of Newman, (16 Platoon, D Company see this Makan. Ed) as I was in Singapore, from the night we arrived on the Island until I rejoined the Bn, at Changi after capitulation, some clumsy poked my right eye out of it's socket. Cheers for now, Col O'Donnell.

Dick & Florence Henderson – Toowoomba, Q. 4352 - B Company

Thanks Alex for his birthday card, sends subs, and says that he is sorry to hear that his health is forcing him to give up the splendid job he has done over the years, in keeping so many in touch with each other and his pleasure in reading Makan. (I hope that he will continue to keep in touch Dick, as C.C. for many years to come. Ed)

Hope you will be able to take things easier now and your health improves. I am very fortunate in being able to say my health is OK, but Florence hasn't been well for a long time, has been having treatment in hospital each fortnight for 16 months, but has had a break of it for the last 2 months. She still has to have a check up each month and will have to start the treatment again some time. All the best to you and any of the boys who know me, Dick."

Ted Taig - Moorabbin Vic. 3189 - A Company

Ted enclosed subs for Makan (Thanks Ted received 7/7/81. Ed.)

He says, "I do hope that one day in the near future I will get to meet you and some of the chaps while I am in Sydney. I am very pleased to receive the Makan as it keeps you up to date with the different ones and know that they are still on this good earth. Hope to meet you soon, Yours sincerely Ted Taig.”

Ashley & Betty Pascoe – Belfield, 2191 - B Company Ex 2/26

Ashley hastens to write and thank Alex for Birthday Card and gives a lot of news, as well as sending a donation, (Thanks Ashley received 7/7/81 Ed.) and says, "Trying to ring you, but your phone out of order, so phoned Mrs. Janet Johnston to let her know I was trying to get you, and found out she came from Lismore. I agree with Noel Johnston's tribute to you, and also thank you so much for all that you have done over the years.

"...I think I can recall Jock McDougall - a dark visaged chap (white headed now, Ashley, but still recognisable, I hope. J.) "..Betty and I keep pretty well, still totter out with the dog twice a day. Am not actively involved in anything now, although still keep up my subs with Amnesty International, Civil Liberties and I also help Ted Noffs (Wayside Chapel) and the Aboriginals. But my voice is muted! Still at 72 I reckon that I have had a good innings, and the only thing I hope for, is that when my time comes it's quick. I've no wish to become a nuisance to anyone, especially Betty.

Met Bill Jewel ex 2/26 Sigs in the city recently, he is a gem merchant (aptly named) at 155 King St. 10th Floor, Bank of N.S.W. Building. He tells me he often goes up to Bangkok, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, in the course of his business. George Beard also wrote me recently. He is Pres. of Q’ld Branch of Ex-P.O.W. Association. Lives at Kenmore with a good business at Mt. Isa. Incidentally the three leading officials of Q’ld P.O.W. Association., Sir Reg Swartz, George Beard and Boyd McKinstry are all 2/26 Bn.

Well I can well appreciate that the cost of publishing Makan must be going up & up, paper ink etc., becoming more expensive. Don't know when this inflation is going to end. Sincerely, Ashley.

Billy & Edith Douglas – Croydon, 2132 - B Company

Billy sends a donation. (Received with thanks Billy 8/7/81) and, "..to let you know that I will be getting re-married on 25/7/81 at Earlwood Ex-Servicemen's Club, so I will have a new next of kin, Edith Vivienne.

Got in touch with George Aspinall, he is going to take some photos at the wedding. He said he would let you know, but I thought I would let you know myself. Yours Truly Billy Douglas."

(We all wish you both the best, Billy, and our advice to Edith is to get you to walk those dogs a bit more, to get that belly off. Since learnt that you are a diabetic Bill- so take it easy. Ed.)

Jim & Margaret Morgan - Port Macquarie, 2444 - B Company

Jim writes and sends in subs. and for a Badge (Thanks Jim, received 9/7/81 Ed.)"..back on deck again and looking forward to the Ballina trip in August.

We had the pleasure of a visit from Curly and Beatrice Hardman, who stayed with us for a few weeks. The weather was not very good for fishing while Curly was here. We also had a call from Len and Wyn Clavan, who stayed overnight on their way home from Canberra - we were delighted to see them. About all the news this time, best of luck to all. Sincerely Jim. (We know that Margaret also provides "good catch".)

Don & Judith Garner - Nambucca Heads, 2448 - B Company

Sends his cheque for plaque & says"...sorry to miss Tamworth but Judy had a serious car accident that week, and only now, 8 months later, is she able to cope with normal activities. (Thanks Don, received 8/7/81 and plaque will be sent when they are available. Glad to hear you are on deck again Judy. Ed.)

Am being operated on at Coffs Harbour 14/7/81 for bowel operation that has caused me ill health lately. Sincerely Don. (Hope you come out of the tie job OK as well Don. Ed.)

Les & Gladys Hall - Harbord 2096 - HQ Company

Les sends a donation towards John Korsch's Diary and writes with a cheque for 2 plaques. (Thanks Les received 10/7/81 and the 2 plaques will be delivered when they become available. Ed.) He says...."there is someone, very special to my wife & self, to whom we want to present a plaque in honour of his late father.

Maybe I'm just a sentimental old fool; do not care if I am; but I feel that this lad will be as proud of the memento as I am of having been a member of such a highly regarded fighting unit.

I was perhaps, one of the luckiest to be selected. The day before the then Major Johnston was due to arrive at Wallgrove Camp, I was on draft, where I was to lose my X number and become an instructor on the mechanics of radio, and to worsen my ambition, Brig. Hinton issued orders that I was NOT to be permitted to volunteer for the new unit being formed in Tamworth.

To cut a long story short, my plea to do so, was left in the hands of the expected interviewers. "You will not be accepted said the co-operative Lucy - his I.T.B. nickname - your age is against you, be as soldierly as you can on parade and from there on it's up to you". When the moment came for me to step out those 30 yards, I did so in my utmost martial manner & thinking, age be damned, I want in and I will do my best to make it. For a moment I thought I was a goner, but I can still hear the words "We need trained signallers, you will be on trial!" I beat the first hurdle, the steeple chase came later. The "Demon" Darby Munro couldn't have tried harder.

Today no one knows how proud I was and am to have been accepted. The plaque will always be a reminder of the half smiling Major who took an "oldie" on trust, as much as it will signify to my family, I had been in a superbly trained & distinguished unit.

Les goes on to pay tribute to Alex & to thank Jack Black & all the organisers of the Tamworth reunion as an outstanding success, and finished by saying that he had a marvellous Anzac Day, marred that night by the sad news of the death that morning of that one of his sons-in-law, who resided in Mollymook. "..The news was kept from me deliberately, so as not to spoil my day. Sincere regards to everyone." Les.

(We are sorry to hear the sad news Les and hope that your daughter will be comforted by the love and affection of her parents. Ed.)

Jack & Val Ellis – Condoblin, 2871 – Transport, HQ Company

Val does the good job of writing the news, "Thanks for Jack's Birthday Card & wishes. He did appreciate the thought. He is not too bad in health - gets a bit puffed out on heavy jobs, so now knows he can't do them and takes care (Don't we all Jack, that hill from the station to Alex’ gets longer and longer. Ed.)

We did enjoy the Tamworth reunion and ended up with a few photos from the occasion, even an old one of Jack in full uniform, marching - taken before he left Aust. Our only grandson thinks "Pop" looks great as a soldier. We have 6 grandchildren as well - our 3 daughters are scattered - one at Double Bay; her husband is a Greenkeeper there - one at Jugiong, Police Station; her husband being in the Force - and the other at Leura. We do get to see them as often as possible.

Would like to send our best wishes to you and all "mates" and the very best of health to all, Jack & Val."

Roy King – Swansea, 2281 - B company

Roy writes and says, "Just a few lines to let you know how things are. I’m still seeing Doctors and Specialists about my pension claims, and expect to finish in about 6 weeks time (29/5/81) then I will know the results. Please find enclosed money for subs. and let me know when they run out. All the best to all the boys of 2/30 and congrats to you and your staff. (Thanks Roy, Ed.)

Yours Respt. Roy King "

Ray & Elsie Reeves – Armidale, 2350 - A/A Ho Company

Another unpaid secretary Elsie writes, "Please find enclosed money for Ray's Subs. All are well here at present. Ray has his off weeks, but isn't too bad really. (Thanks Elsie, received 3/6/81)

We have just arrived back from two weeks holiday in Canberra. Our eldest daughter, Patricia lives there, and our youngest son, Peter, came over from Sydney to spend a few days with us also, which was very enjoyable. I seem to miss the children more as I get older. We both thank God for Kerry Anne, she is 13 years old now and wonderful company to us both and we are very proud of her.

Our oldest son, Raymond, is living back here in Armidale now, he is still butchering. We still have only 4 grandchildren, Patricia has 3 (2 boys & 1 girl) and Raymond has one girl.

Winter is certainly closing in on us now - up here it is very cold especially after the rain, which was very much appreciated, it has been very dry up this way.

I must close with regards to everyone, Yours sincerely, Elsie Reeves.”

Les & Joyce Parfrey – Deniliquin, 2710 - D Company

Joyce gives the news, "Herewith Les' subs. Thank you for all the hard work involved in turning out Makan, which Les always enjoys reading. He is well, apart from arthritis, a difficult thing to control, Yours sincerely, Joyce Parfrey.

(Thanks Joyce received 2/6/81 and C.C. and "Slaves", - not my words but one of the staff says I am a slave driver - thank you for your kind remarks. Ed.)

Keith “Chappy" & Cathy Chapman - Regents Park, 2143 - A Company

"Chappy" enclosed postal note for Makan subs and said, "I am doing OK at present. Recently had my pension lifted from 50% to 100%, plus service pension. After about five years fighting Repat. it was good to get some results at last.

Was in hospital recently with a bout of pneumonia, but OK again now. Kindest Regards to all, Keith, "Chappy"

(Thanks Chappy, received 9/6/81 & we recall that you have kidney dialysis machine at home, as your transplant failed to come off - hope all is going well in that direction. Ed.)

Jack Carey – Budgewoi, 2263 - D Company

Jack writes that he is reasonably healthy and says, "still active in the garden and also on Budgewoi Beach and Lake. The fish are elusive but the fresh air is plentiful. I have had brief visits by Stan Green, Bob & Betty Wells and "Joe" and Sybil Johnston. All old platoon mates and a great thrill to be in their company once again.

My brother Luke, Joe Johnston and I called on Alex McWilliams, (B Company) at Gorokan. Alex must rank with Jack Black and Norm King for the youngest looking members of the Bn. Hoping you are keeping well and hoping to see you in the near future,

Jack Carey.

(Thanks for the money order Jack, received 12/6/81, we are relieving the "old war horse" of a bit of the load and he is looking all the better for it. Ed.)

Sid K. Hart - Birmingham Gardens, 2287 - A Company

Sid has forwarded his subs and a donation and, having seen the light, says, "I reached the age of 60 last August and after 29 years at Huttons (less over 5 years with the boys) and 17 years with Tooheys (you will miss the 35 hr. week, Sid. Ed.) I decided that I should retire and annoy the wife and enjoy the grandchildren. This I did and on the 15th August last. I made the break and am now annoying the wife and enjoying the grandchildren.

My health, like for most of us, has its ups and downs, but as long as I keep popping pills, I manage to keep body and soul together.

Sorry I couldn't make Tamworth last November, perhaps with a bit of luck I will make the 50th.

Kind regards to all the boys, Sid.

Lloyd & Phil Stuart - Rockdale 2216 - D Company

Phil another unpaid secretary writes, "Sorry for the delay in Lloyd's subs, as he put Makan aside, and when I went to read the news, found his subs were due.

Lloyd hasn't been the best during the past few months, has had dreadful pains in his leg and eye. He has tablets but still walks the floor quite often with the pain.

Sorry to say, as much as he loves his golf, doesn't think he will be able to walk the course now. I have a game now and then, but not playing the best.

Enclosed subs. in advance, Lloyd sends all the best to all, Regards, Phil Stuart.

(Thanks Phil, received on 16/6/81 - an old grandmother's tale but worth a try is "put half a dozen moth balls in a cloth bag and place in the bed near painful leg sometimes relieves pain, but always relieves cramp"- the only thing against this Lloyd is the hardness of the moth balls. Ed.)

Jim C. Angus – Gordon, 2072 - A Company

Jim writes, "Please find enclosed cheque for Life Membership fee for Association, subscription to Makan, and Unit Badge. Please thank whoever was responsible for sending me copies of Makan.

Yours sincerely, Jim Angus

(Thanks Jim, received on 19/6/81 and badge sent - the second paragraph of your letter is enough thanks to "whoever was responsible" to see that you have joined the fold. Ed.)

Edith Berman - West Ryde 2114 - Wife of Izzy - D Company

Edith's brother, Aaron, 71 years of age, had to have an operation in Ryde Hospital and his heart specialist had to be in attendance as a precaution. Aaron went home but had to be re-admitted because the "plumbing" was not just right, and he is one of these chaps, who will put up with a lot of pain and not tell anyone.

Edith says that he lost 3½ stone on the second operation.

Ken & Betty Parry -- Chermside West, Bris. 4032 - D Company

Further news from "Jasper" letter of 13/6/81, "A friend of mine, Bob Kelsey ex 2/26 Bn was enquiring of George Clarke, (C Company), could you give me the latest "Sitrep" on George and I will pass it on to Bob.") Your scribe sent a reply to "Jasper" saying "George Clarke retired from the Bank, he was Manager of its North Sydney Branch. He looks well at last sighting, his Sydney address being, Fairlight. He and Fifi have a cottage up at Koolewong on Brisbane Waters, but assured your Scribe that it is only for relaxation purposes, at times. His permanent address is still Fairlight.

Continuing "Jasper" says, "Since I last wrote I've had a small bout of current chest complaint, which is prevalent in Brisbane. It was enough to keep me indoors for a couple of weeks, and then have some pretty exhausting physio treatment. Now I am feeling a great deal better, thank heavens.

My wife, Betty, is also well and we spend our time between Sunny Brisbane and the Gold Coast where we soak up the sun (in between visits to Twin Towers Services Club). Thankfully we are as well as can be and still able to be reasonably mobile.

Best regards to all, Alex, please pass on my respects to those from our great unit family, whom you meet.

Yours aye, Ken Parry

“Scotty” & Marj Harris – Awaba, 2283 – Mortar, HQ Company

"Scotty" writes, "Thank you for the Birthday Card - 60 and now compulsorily retired. Not that I resent being retired, as I have been looking forward to retirement for some time, it seems a little odd now, but when I went into pit work, I rather enjoyed the effort, sweat and the danger of mining - everything then was manual & rather a game of producing so many tons of coal. Now it is mechanical - no experience needed - just the ability to drive a machine. Sadly this is leading to more deaths in the Industry. Automation appears to be making mining less arduous, but leaving miners less understanding of what is above them and what is happening around them. Retired, but happy with no problems.

I am taking (together with Mum) my two eldest grandchildren to Singapore in October. Michael is nine and Christine is also nine. Christine is a sensitive girl - keenly interested in things Australian - very proud, for one so young, of Australian Army exploits. She has expressed a wish to see Changi Jail. Could you advise me on how I go about gaining permission to see Changi Chapel."

(Alex' reply reminds "Scotty" of Tommy Yates taking his two grandsons & saying on his return - "They worked out what they wanted to see and I paid to go with them", - but then. they were fourteen year olds. J.)

(Visits to Changi Prison and Chapel are now in the hands of Singapore Tourist Promotion Board, 131 Tudor Court, Tanglin Rd. Singapore 10. Phone 235-6611 when you are settled on the Island, and tell them you want to see the Chapel as well as the Gaol. Suggestion has been made, that intending visitors contact the Sydney Branch of the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board, No.1 Alfred St. Sydney, 2000, phone (02) 241-3771, 241-3772 for any material, brochures, etc., that you may require regarding places to visit on the Island. Ed.)

One of A Company chaps who was on Blakang Mati is now back in Singapore - by name of Athol Hyde Cates, temporary address is 19/309 Merlin Plaza Beach Rd., Singapore, 071. He and his wife, Beryl, would be pleased to help you, if you would care to drop him a line C.C.

Ray Duncombe – Balmain, 2041 - Sigs HQ Company

Ray's thanks to Alex and Joe appear under heading of Death of N.O.K., as you will recall that Ray's wife Leila died 16/4/81 but he sends us news of himself. "..however, you may have noticed that I had a had bronchitis attack and had to have a couple of courses of antibiotics to clear it up. Am well now and hope to get through the winter without another attack.

My daughter comes over from Seaforth every week, and I have a couple of very good neighbours, who do a bit of shopping for me.

It was a coincidence you and my brother-in-law, Noel Cantrell, knowing one another. He spoke highly of you and your willingness to help others at work in the Bank.

I had a phone call from my old Sarg. Les Hall, and Jack Black also rang me. He had been away for Easter.

Well Alex, this has been a record, as I am a bad letter writer - the phone is easier - but I had to put my thanks to you on paper. Regards to all the boys, especially those workers of Makan who keep us in touch.

Yours fraternally, Ray Duncombe.

Ron & Dot Stoner – Attadale, W.A. 6156 - B Company

The other part of Ron's letter states, "I am keeping fit and am filling my days with plenty to do. Last week Dot and I spent 4 days with my sister and brother-in-law at Rottnest Island. It rained most of the time, but we thoroughly enjoyed the break. The herring are running just now (1/6/81) and two of us caught eight dozen as well as a couple of dozen garfish, last Thursday morning. On Friday morning we finished with a mixed bag of herring, gardies, rock cod and flathead. (Punter Wallis, Jack Greenwood, etc., please note. Ed.) "Rotto", as it is generally called by the locals, is unique. A veritable playground, 7 miles long and 4 miles wide. It has no privately owned land or houses and there are no dogs or cats or privately owned cars on the Island. Apart from Army Barracks all buildings are owned and managed by a State Government Board. There is a pub, Post Office, Restaurant, Supermarket, Baker etc. and visitors bring their bikes across in the ferry or hire bikes on the island. (Push likes or Motor Scooters, Ron?) .The Bike Hire establishment has nearly 1000 bikes available for hire. We hired bikes and an aluminium skiff with outboard while we were there.

The previous week we had a friend from Sydney staying with us and I took him for a run down into the south west - Burbury, Busselton and Collie and also on a visit to several of the, wineries in the Swan Valley, to sample some of our Gold winning Whites & Reds.

You can put me down for a plaque, if orders reach 25. That is if I am not to late with my order. (This has been noted Ron & Doc Wilson advised. See Makan 261 for final cost. Ed.). I diarised to write to you before mid May, but visitors from Sydney during that month played havoc with my spare time and I procrastinated more than usual.

I am glad to see the 2/30 Bn. Auxiliary is so active in promoting interesting outings. These efforts will do much towards preserving the spirit of fellowship and service manifested by the Bn. during the periods of training, action and incarceration. (Hear! Hear! Ron. Ed.)

I hope to hear from any members of the Bn. visiting Perth either on holiday here or passing through en route overseas." King regards to all, Ron.

Bill & Heather Desmet_ - Weetangera, ACT 2614 – Band, Bn HQ

Bill gives us news, "I am in Ulladulla at present and have just been up to see George Stephenson, who is in hospital. He had a black out and bruised his arms, when he fell, he has had quite a few check-outs and all being well should be discharged 26/2/81. (See Makan 261 May/June. George appears to be up and going again. Hope the bowls and snooker are on again George. Ed.)

Bill continues "Arnie Ainsworth, well he's OK and taking his little nourishment each day.

Cheers, Sincerely, Bill Desmet

George H. & Mrs. J. Brown - Wagga Wagga, 2650 - A Company

George writes and says, "A short line to thank you for the Birthday Card and your message.

I was surprised to realise that your "records" were so complete and your administration so efficient.

Sorry to know that you are not so well and no doubt you are wise to give up the Editorship of the Magazine at this time. I know how demanding these things can be, especially if one is the "dedicated" type.

I was Bulletin Editor for Wagga Legacy for about 8 years, which meant being reporter, typist, printer and mailman. Together with being an Alderman for the same period (9 years); a Director of the Commercial Club; also a delegate to the County Council as an Alderman; and Regional Controller for Civil Defence since 1966, Local Controller before that since 1959. I've had my share of volunteer effort,

When my doctor made me realise that I was doing the work of six men, as he said, I thought it time to take stock of the situation, and finished up with the Civil Defence portfolio, which I still hold.

From my observations over a short period, I can see that you have put your heart and soul into the job, and can retire self satisfied, that you have done "a good job". Congratulations.

Please give my regards and best wishes to any member who may remember me, and thanks again for the card.

Kind regards, George Brown.

(As the old saying goes there is always someone worse off……George you encourage me. Ed.)

Wally & Angela Scott - Fairy Meadow 2519 - A Company

Wally returns thanks for his Birthday Card, "..which was waiting for me when I returned home from Bulli Hospital. I had a black-out through blood pressure last Friday (20/6/81), and finished up in Bulli, the first time in hospital since arriving home from Malaysia.

A week later Wally says "Sorry for not finishing this note sooner but I was trying to track down Frank Hannan, and saw him yesterday for a couple of minutes. I could not wait very long as we had to catch a train, so, I went to his guest house this morning and missed him, as he had gone for his daily walk. Anyhow his address is Wollongong. (Still the same? I thought it was being demolished! A.D.) Alex. please excuse the scribble, the Parkinson's is playing up.

I called again on Frank and he is still at the same address (30/6/81), I asked him to drop you a line as you were worried as you had no word from him since his op. He promised to write to you. (Since received, Wal, Thanks. C.C.) Yours sincerely, Wal Scott.

Neil & Molly Huntley - Port Macquarie, 2444 - B Company

Neil sends subs for Makan and a donation and also gives us the news, "...am so pleased that you are feeling better now Alex, and doing such a great job in producing Makan in a most interesting form. (Many thanks Neil for the donation and subs., received 2/7/81, and although Alex is working constantly as C.C.& adviser to yours truly, we are endeavouring to take a lot of the weight from those bent shoulders, and I do believe I see a little less stoop lately. J.)

Neil continues, "Sorry I have little news for you. I see some of the local boys occasionally, mostly at R.S.L. Meetings. Darby Young has moved from here up the coast. Molly and self are not as active as we used to be, though still with Legacy, Torchbearers etc. I was around the Ivanhoe-Mossgiel-Booligal areas in February L/Rover job, visiting relatives, and my sister at Canowindra, who has since died. Unfortunately did not have time to visit any 2/30 boys who may have been in the area, which I know so well, and, despite the 110° temp, enjoyed my trip. Beer was enjoyable too - cool here. Both Molly and self had nasty bouts of pneumonia in the past few months, mine occurred in the Ballarat Hospital and Molly's, as soon as we got home from the trip. (Sorry to hear of your loss. Ed)

Must close, starting to ramble. Kindest regards, Neil (We also hope that you are both better now. J.)

Miss Heather Baxter - Cousin of Les Baxter - D Company – Campbelltown, 2560

Heather writes to Alex and enclosed cheque for Bn. Plaque (Thanks Heather, Plaque will be sent when we receive same from the manufacturer. Ed.) She adds "I am glad that you are still with the Makan team (not as much as I am Heather. J) and wish to thank you for all the good work you have done for me personally, Without you I would never have been able to obtain copies of the Bn. History for the family, also Stan Arneil's "One Man's War", as well as placing me on the mailing list for Makan. Now you have made it possible to obtain the Plaque. I deeply appreciate it.

Thank you again, Sincerely yours, Heather Baxter.

Len Roberts – Wyong, 2259 - HQ Company (Transport)

Len and Margaret had earlier thoughts on going to South Africa on 4th July to see the addition to Vaux's family, but Len's illnesses, appointments with doctors and even a trip to a Clinic at Concord had put a stop to that. Present thoughts are that they may be able to make the trip in November, by driving the caravan to Perth and flying from there. Their daughter is still in Perth, because, although her husband had applied to go to Bougainville, he could not get a work permit from the Government there.

John E. Martin – Greenacre, 2190 - C Company

Some have good luck and some are not so fortunate. Here's John almost ready to retire from work and he has an accident and damaged his ribs; I split, 1 chipped and 1 broken. (Sorry to hear of your problems, John, all the more reason to seek that pension. C.C.)

Frances Ing - Forestville, 2087 - Niece of Harry Wilson, B Company, Deceased 2/2/80

Writes to thank Alex for his thoughtfulness in sending her, "..regular copies of your very newsy Makan. However as our Uncle Harry (Wilson) is no longer with us my contact with the 2/30 Bn. is no longer necessary. Please find enclosed a cheque as a donation towards your work, with other members, and in appreciation of your support when Uncle Harry died". Frances Ing.

(Thank you, Frances, for your support, it will be put to good use. Ed.)

Don & Monica Schumacher - Birmingham Gardens ,2287- D Company

Don sends in money for the Bn. Plaque and sends regards to all. (Thanks Don received on 7/7/81 and plaque will be sent as soon as possible., Ed.)

Reg & Pat Nossiter - Eastwood 2122 - B Company

Reg also sends in for plaque and also a donation. (Thanks Reg, received on 7/7/81 and plaque will be sent when available. Ed.)

Derek "Joe" & Ethel Smith - Bargo 2574 - A Company

Derek gave us the sad news of Ted Lutz (see Last Post) and says, '"On the rare occasions that I have had a yarn with Ted, he was complaining of not being able to sleep and I gather from him that his health was deteriorating. He was not one to complain and like me w as somewhat of a loner, (a host of friends though, Derek, look for news from you. Ed.) but I also found him to be a very genuine man and friend. Lets hope that he is teaching the angels how to play baseball.

This Sunday (I thought it was Saturday 25th, Derek, so hope you didn’t miss it. Ed.) is the bus trip to Bolton Point. Looks like I will be going on my own, as my wife is up at Brisbane with our eldest daughter, Janet, who has been putting up a brave fight against cancer these last three years. (Alex tells me you caught the bus. J.)

Enclosed is a donation to John Korsch's Diary and I am passing it around for my friends to read. Kind regards to all & best wishes from the Smith Family, at Bargo (Thanks Derek, received 21/7/81)

Frank Dyson - Tomakin 2537 - 12 Platoon, B Company

Frank sends us a lot of news, "I am afraid words cannot explain the intense pride, that I felt, when I received the Birthday card from you and the Association. My wife was literally speechless, but also, so pleased, that my fighting unit is still on deck. All I can say is Thank You.

I rang Ray Brown late last week (16/7/81) and certainly had him thinking whom it was speaking, when I told him that he was the con man, who was in the next bed at Batu Pahat and who usually conned me into getting the early cup of tea at sunrise. I even told him that he looked well. (One to me, Ray.)

Am enclosing a cheque for Life Membership and change to go to some good purpose, if I am not behind on Makan dues, and although the window of the house shall be darkened and the grinders shall cease, because they are few, may the unit keep on with the good fellows who run the show. Regards, Frank. (Thanks Frank, received 21/7/81)

Ted & Thelma Campbell – Tumbarumba, 2653 - Carrier Platoon, HQ

Ted says "Thank you ever so much for the Best Wishes and Birthday Card. My wife & I have just returned from a nice holiday at Ballina and both of us are keening very fit and I am now continuing with my skiing.

Both Bluey Gray & Clyde Blencowe send their best wishes and expressed their appreciation of what you have done to keep the Bn. together with the aid of Makan. I would like to say "Hi" to those who remember me and especially to Phil Bailey & George Aspinall. I would also like to trace Val Henning if I could. (Val Henning - Sigs. HQ Company - does anyone know where he went after coming back from the Northern Territory? C.C.)

Have enclosed cheque which is made up for Clyde & Bluey & Self to cover postage of John Korsch's Diary, Subs. for Makan, and balance to help funds.

I'm afraid that over the years my memory has grown dim and I now find it hard to connect names and faces and a lot of those I knew really well have died. I am not a great one for reunions. My wife was in hospital when the Tamworth "do" was on & I could

not get away. It must have really been worth while. All the best, Ted. (Thanks Ted, cheque received 20/7/81 and I might add that your memory loss is shared by most of us. We are glad that you have recovered Thelma, and enjoyed the trip to Ballina and hope the M.O. looked after you properly. Ed.)

Ray & Leila Simmons – Bexley, 2201 - HQ Company

Ray sends a donation towards the cost of posting John's Diary and writes, "My thanks for the Birthday Card and your greetings.

My rush trip to Ballina for the funeral of Bruce Greer's wife, Billie, was made and there were approx. 17 ex 2/30 personnel present, which was very good, also the wreath was really magnificent. As I had made the trip on Sunday night - the funeral was on Tues. and I left on Wed. night at 6.30 pm and arrived back at Bexley at 6 am on Thurs. morning, needless to say, I have not yet fully recovered. (Still not bad for a 77 year old, Ray, the trouble is that you may still think you are a 30 odd year old. Ed.)

I am so sorry to hear that our Queensland cobber, Richard Newman, passed on through terminal cancer, as you said, "what a sad way to go". We are all getting old now and sometimes I wonder how we, all of us, have managed to live so long, after the trials & tribulations of our P.O.W. experiences. God has been most merciful to us and I think that I am extremely fortunate, as are most of us, we certainly have a lot to be thankful for.

Thank you for the Diary, it is absolutely fantastic that he writes about the history of his experiences. I will certainly be writing to Keith, thanking him for his kindness & generosity.

Thank you Alex, for your past services to Makan, and I can only add that if the present Editor can do as well as you - then he's “some guy". (Trying hard, Ray, but it's not coming easily. Ed.)

Jim & Peggy McGoldrick – Muswellbrook, 2333 - 16 Platoon, 3 Sec. D Company

Peggy sends in for a plaque (Thanks Peggy, received 17/7/81 and plaque will be sent when ready, Ed.) and says, "Thank you for the Birthday Card to Jim. He is keeping fairly well, though is working long hours, so I am writing this letter for him. He has just finished 2 weeks "dog watch" and is now on afternoon shift.

Our son, Mark, has finished school and is in his first year as an apprentice fitter & machinist with the coal boom in the hunter District, a lot of tradesmen are needed. Regards & Best wishes to all, Peggy.

Lloyd & Phil Stuart – Rockdale, 2216 - D Company

Phil writes in & encloses a donation towards postage of the Diary and says, "We were both so pleased to see & meet you Alex after all these years. It was quite a surprise. Regards Phil & Lloyd. (Thanks Phil received 17/7/81 Ed).

Chris Conn writes in from Port Macquarie, 2444

and says, "The plaque that I ordered from you in Tamworth is organised. Please find cheque enclosed. I told Dad on his birthday, that was what he was getting. (Thanks Chris and a good present to give him - hope it's not too long, before he receives it. Ed.)

Harry & Joan Holden - Cooma, 2630 - B Company

Harry writes in a newsy letter and says, "Sorry you have had so many problems at a time when you should be able to relax and enjoy life, but it's great to know that so many of the fellows are rallying to your aid.

No other 2/30 men about here, so I feel a bit isolated. The Makan therefore is greatly appreciated. Sorry I didn't make it to Sydney for Anzac Day, but I had rather heavy commitments here. It’s a big day, in fact week, here in Cooma, and I found myself having to make three speeches, one to a school, one at the Dawn Service, and one at the Official Luncheon. That should let me out next year.

All well here, in fact the older we get the better we seem to get - must be the clean air & water! Sincerely hope that things are on the up & up for you and assuring you of my deep appreciation of your efforts on behalf of, the Association and it's members. Your work load must have been far and away greater than we have any right to expect.

I wonder what Ron thinks of John Korsch's comments re the patrol that "Bomb Happy" wanted them to go on but they got out of it! No doubt he'd just grin.

Didn't notice any of our blokes at R.S.L. State Congress, which I attended May/June. George Ramsay was remembered by his former colleagues in the Snowy Mountains Authority & Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation. Doug Price, the boss of the latter, brought back two railway spikes (dogs) which he had mounted. He presented them to the Local Ex-Servicemen's Club on Anzac Day. The spikes were retrieved from a section of "our railway" which passed through an area in which the SMEC boys are working. A personal contribution by Doug which was greatly appreciated by local rice eaters (now only three – 2 x 2/19 and myself). All the best, Harry''. (I might add Harry that the frowns of worry have been lifted and our friend is now beaming though not relaxing Ed.)

Mrs. Florence Bennie (Formerly Mrs. F. Bayliss - Cliff Bayliss’ Widow)

Please find enclosed a cheque for my annual Subs. to Makan, and balance to be used in an area of need. I was sorry to hear of your doctor's warning, re your work load and send my very sincere wishes for a speedy return to much, better, health'".(Thanks Florence, received 16/7/81 and your support is greatly appreciated. Ed.)

Bert Carter – Killara, 2071 - B Company

Bert sends a donation towards postage of John's Diary and says, "Yes, it was very generous of Keith Murray to make such a donation of John Korsch's Diary and I will drop a note of thanks to him. Regards, Bert. (Thanks Bert, received 21/7/81 Ed.)

Jim Saunderson - Sans Souci - B Company

Jim also sends donation for stamps for John's Diary & says "When my wife read to me the list of names it brought back memories of faces long forgotten. My regards to all members, particularly those who were with A Force. Sincerely, Jim. (Thanks Jim, Rec. 22/7/81)

Matt (Slim) Cranitch - Tugun 4224 - D Company

We have now caught up with Slim's new address, as shown, and he writes, "Many thanks for sending me Makan & John Korsch's Diary. I enjoy reading the Makan very much and get much pleasure out of hearing of the whereabouts and doings of fellow members of the Bn.

I was able to attend the funeral service of our old friend Ossie Jackson. When one heard all the nice things being said about Os, and seeing all his old mates there to say goodbye to him, makes me feel very humble, but at the same time, very proud to have known him.

As you can see I am now residing on the Gold Coast and would like to see any of the Bn. at any time. You can rest assured there will always be a bed, a feed and plenty of 2/30 Bn. hospitality for any of the boys & their wives, who would like to visit this area.

Am enclosing cheque for a couple of years Makan subs, and a donation towards posting John's Diary. Regards to All, Matt. (Thanks Slim, received 21/7/81 and new address and phone no. noted)

Ray Simmons - Bexley, 2207 - Bn. HQ

Ray was pleased to be able to say that he was able to play Bowls again in June after about 12 months away from the Club. He classed both Leila and himself as about 47½% fit.

However, he went up to the funeral of Bruce Greer's wife by bus both ways, and did not have a sleep on either journey, so that his emphysema has been playing up since and has set him back a bit.

Les Melrose - Matraville, 2036 - HQ Company

Les reports that he expects to be a grandfather again in July. That addition will make the total of grandchildren 4, so Les is hard at work in the garage with some woodwork in preparation.

Joe Geoghegan merits our sympathy for recent deaths in the family.

The funeral of one of his cousins was attended by Ray Rickards because Ray had known him, when he was working at the Burwood Bus Depot.

Joe himself had a bad time after an injection of penicillin as a counter to a touch of bronchitis. It turns out that he is allergic to it. Talking of his troubles, Kevin Ward discloses that, he is not allergic, and this was found out, when he was in Concord, just after the War, because he was one whom the M.O.’s used as a "guinea pig" in order to see its effect on patients. Kevin also says that Horrie Cody was another, who was a subject in the tests, and he also proved to be satisfactory.

Keith Murray - Grafton, 2460 - John Korsch's Friend

Keith Murray writes and says, "I have received many letters and phone calls, thanking me for publishing the Korsch Diary.

Could you grant me the privilege of a line or two in your next "Makan" to say: 'K.D.  Murray takes this opportunity to thank ex 2/30 Bn. Members for their letters and phone cads of thanks for the publication.' (Thank you, Keith. Ed.)

Ron Stoner follows up with another letter 11/7/81 thanking Alex for his Birthday Card and saying he enjoyed his large birthday cake, but the 75 candles took a bit of blowing out. Also asking, “As an old Graftonian friend, for a copy of John's Diary. (Should have received it by now Ron. Ed.) He also enclosed a further article from "West Australian" re widow's pension claims and although suffering from one finger cramp from typing, we publish main extracts, as the subject is right up the alley of your new Ed. Ron says, "I am saddened by the death of Margaret Mitchell - she had many devoted friends. There will be many that mourn her passing. Also Ken Crispin - the Bn. History is a Memorial to him and a tribute to his indomitable stout heartedness as a soldier, and, superior character qualities as a man. His family have my sincere sympathy.

Am glad to read of the arrangements made to keep Makan coming along and I wish the team well in the continuation of the publication for many years hence, Yours ever, Ron.

(Ron it is only by "prolific" writers as you & other members, that the Makan continues to thrive and I hope will do so for, as you say, "many years", so keep it coming, and I will put up with the finger cramp. J.)

Keith Chapman - Regents Park, 2143 - A Company

"Makan" has put Keith in touch with one of his old Blakang Mati mates Vic (Spud) Murphy, of Belmont, so they had quite a chat on the phone the other Sunday morning.

Another, to whom Keith made a call, was Keith Murray, our friend of John Korsch up at Grafton, to thank him for what he had done in getting John Korsch's Diary to the Battalion. It appears that his P.O.W. days require Keith Murray to move around in a wheelchair, and that knowledge lends to a greater appreciation for what he has done.

It turns out that Chappie has a brother living in North Grafton, and on a visit to him, Chappie had seen John for the first time in years, just 3 months before John died. So Chappie has more reason to treasure his copy of the diary.

George White (Doughy) – Bexley, 2207 - HQ Company

George had quite a session in Concord, then they sent him up to Lady Davidson for physiotherapy on his knee, and later he was back in Concord. He is home now, but he is not too happy, and that is putting it mildly, with physiotherapy.

George Aspinall - Canterbury, 2193 –Transport, H.Q. Company

George writes in to pay his tribute to the memory of "Ossie" and says, "It was with deep sadness that I read in the last Makan, of the passing of "Ossie" Jackson. He was a truly great humanitarian and was always at his best when the going was tough, such as with F Force at No, 1 & 3 Camps on the Railway. Although at times he was not in the best of health, and at one stage, he was a very sick man himself, he always had a cheerful word of encouragement for those, who were sick or weak, and did anything he could, for those less fortunate than himself. I got to know "Ossie" very well in those months of extreme hardship, we often used to sit and talk at night, of events that were happening to all of us at that time. I considered him a very good fried of mine, but so also did many other people with whom he came in contact.

In later years he carried on that same philosophy in civil life and was well known to many people in his district around Lismore for his work in helping to rehabilitate those, who had fallen by the wayside in one way or another. Neither one of his great tributes was, he was a good orator and spoke from the heart. As time goes on another great member of the 2/30th has left us.

Canterbury-Hurlstone Park R.S.L. Club was the venue of a small group that had the pleasure of entertaining at dinner, the late "Ossie" Jackson's wife, Mavis and their two sons, John, who lives at Canterbury, and Russell, who is in Sydney on a short holiday. John is a chemist with C.S.R. at Rhodes and Russell is also with C.S.R. in Brisbane. Mavis is continuing on in her position at Bangalow Hospital.

The group were mainly members of 2/30 Bn. Association Auxiliary. One of its functions is to follow up after bereavements of members, so as to keep in touch with next of kin, and to help them in any way we can. If they are not members of the Auxiliary, we would like to see them join same, and through various functions and outings, they are still in contact with other members, thus keeping the 2/30 Bn. Association going for many more years in the future.

I would like to convey, on behalf of all "Ossie's" friends & mates, our deepest sympathy and respect to his wife Mavis, and his two sons, John & Russell. Kindest Regards, George Aspinall.

Phil J. Bailey - Tamworth, 2340 - A/A, HQ Company

Sends in his changed address, as above. “What’s your new phone number, Phil?"

Bob Hanley - Auburn 2144 - D Company

Sends thanks for John's Diary and sends in more than enough for postage. (Thanks Bob, received 23/7/81 Ed.)

Jim & Margaret Morgan – Port Macquarie, 2444 - D Company

Jim sends in for post age of  Diary and says, "Thanks for the kind though for my Birthday. Margaret is still fishing on the top; won the biggest bag of fish on the last outing of the club. I have not been in touch with the Boys, who live up here for some time now, but all OK, I have been told. Gordon & Nancy McKnight called in to see us on their way up north. We were pleased to see them.

Well not much news, Regards to all, Jim & Margaret.

Don & Judith Garner – Nambucca Heads, 23448 – B Company - Lieutenant

Don writes from home , after returning from hospital having had his bowel operation and tie job, saying "Still very sore but on the mend. Thank you indeed for advising Joe Veivers, who along with Jack Fell, paid me a visit in Coffs Harbour.

Their visit was only two days after my operation, and at that stage I was in rather a doped condition and not very communicative.

I did appreciate their call very much, and through Makan I would like you to pass on to them my gratitude. It was rather odd that I had one small vase of flowers beside my bed, sent by friends, who would not have known what branch of war service I served in, but the colours were “purple & gold”, and I remember the boys saying, that they thought I was “Bunging it on a bit”. Thanks for your thoughtfulness and caring. Sincerely, Don Garner.

Mrs. Shirley Twyford (Gear) – Late Nev Gear’s wife – Glendale, 2285 - D Company

Shirley writes, "Please find enclosed cheque for Plaque, that I ordered from you at Tamworth. Sorry that I have been so long in sending it but have been waiting for the postal situation to settle. Kind regards, Shirley Twyford (Gear)

(Thanks, Shirley, received 28/7/8l and it's still in time as they are not yet ready. Ed.)

W. “Tiger” & Eileen Sylvester – Belmore, 2192 – B Company

Tiger sends his cheque to cover the Diary postage and says: "I found it very interesting, especially the mention of Cpl. Ambrose. It was Cpl. Ambrose who carried me back to the Battalion, after I was wounded at Gemas.

After reading John’s Diary, I realised how fortunate I was to have been wounded and able to leave Singapore before the surrender.

Many thanks for your, kind efforts, ''Tiger" Sylvester. (Tiger was repatriated from 13 A.G.H. on 10/2/42. Ed.)

Don West – Bardwell Park, 2207 - B Company

Don writes his thanks for John's Diary and encloses cheque for postage and Makan fees saying "Very interesting, how anybody could carry the notes through P.O.W. days is incredible.

Also many thanks go to those concerned with the compiling, editing and having the Diary printed and mailed out to the members of 2/30 Bn. It is highly commendable.

Visited Doughy White in Concord, he is very thin and has his leg in a sling, but was very cheerful and glad to see me. Did not enquire as to the reason for him being a patient.

Sorry to note your health has caused you to hand over the job you have been doing on behalf of the Bn., and hope in future we have the same excellent care and quality you have given us. Best of health and a long life to you, and thank you again, Don West. (Thanks for the cheque Don, received on 28/7/81 and I endorse your sentiments entirely. Ed.)

Wilf Evans - Guildford – Transport, HQ Company

Just a few lines to say how sorry I am to hear about your bad health and hope you soon pick up. We seem to forget that the years are catching up.

I am receiving an Intermediate Pension now, my leg is still bad. When one looks about us, we must be thankful for what we have.

I enjoyed reading John's Diary. I never knew him very well, but what I did know of him, he was a fine gentleman and soldier.

Am enclosing cheque to help along. Regards to you & the boys, Wilf Evans".
Athol Hyde Capes - Singapore - A Company

Athol writes and thanks Alex and Ron Maston for passing on information to him and also says, "During recent weeks we've had a blast of propaganda urging employers to copy the Japanese system. Economically Japan can do no wrong. Seminars, addresses by public officials and newspaper articles on the Japanese way of management, and Singaporeans are told over and over to model themselves cm the Japanese work system.

I trust all is going well with you. We are following the current political flare-up in Canberra through our local paper and also Australian papers, we get here, whenever we are in the vicinity where they are sold. By today's reports (14/5/81) things look grim for Fraser.

Kind Regards to all from Beryl & Myself, Athol."

Frank Hannan - Wollongong, 2500 - HQ Company, Bn. Q Store

True to his word to Wally Scott, Frank has dropped us a line, he says, "As I told you in one of my notes, I could be a Repat Job in '81. I was called to be given a going over on the 2nd Jan. and after a long wait I was admitted to ward 430 and I was shocked to see Col. George Ramsay there. "Gentleman George", all Man. On the morning of the 6th Jan. George was taken by his Maker (God Bless Him).

Well Alex, after a lot of tests and X-Rays, on 16th Jan, they took me down and put me under and had a good look see, my weight having dropped to 7s.61b.Then on 23rd Jan down I went again and this time I was under quite a long time. When I woke, as usual after a big op., I was tubes all over. Then a Doctor came to my bed and told me about the op., and quite casually told me that the Surgeon had removed a tumour.

I am OK again, in fact I am back to my old weight 9s.71b., but, I am not to push myself. I have been back 3 times for a check and go again on 14th Aug. No.2 clinic at 10am, and hope it is the last.

Regards to all the boys and God Bless them with good health. Frank Hannan."

Russ & Karon Perkins – Westmead, 2145 - B Company

Russ writes in and sends a cheque towards postage of John's Diary. (Thanks Russ, received on 4/8/81. Ed.) He says, "I was very sorry to hear of your ill health, Alex, no doubt your wonderful work and efforts to Makan & the Battalion, were contributing factors and I sincerely hope, now that the load has been eased, you will soon regain your health.

Thank you in words which I find inadequate to put on paper, to express my personal gratitude.

The John Korsch Diary received in good order and the reading will be of great interest to all; refreshing one's memory of places & events; above all, the realisation of us all, who are still alive to remember, especially, those comrades, who have since passed on.

I will certainly write to Keith Murray, a few lines of appreciation, and in conclusion take care, Kind Regards, Russ."

Les & Joyce Parfrey – Deniliquin, 2710 - D Company

Joyce writes in and says, "Les & I were very pleased to view our copy of John's Diary. There must have been a tremendous amount of work involved in collating, publishing and distributing this work. Les has read it and it has brought back many memories for him, of his years of imprisonment.

He is usually well, but at the moment is suffering rather a painful bout of arthritis, Thanks for the Birthday Card, Sincerely, Joyce Parfrey."

(Thanks Joyce for the amount towards postage. Received 4/8/81 Ed.)

Alf (Curly) & Olga Blomfield – Caringbah - A Company

Curly writes to say, "Thanks for the Birthday Card. You were quite right, Tommy and I did kick up our heels on a couple of occasions, to celebrate our joint Birthdays, not that we had much opportunity during P.O.W. days." Curly is going to Ballina Reunion with Stan Arneil.

Wal & Freda Eather - South Tamworth, 2340 - C Company

Wal wrote in reply to mine asking him to give us a run down on his trip to Brunei and Singapore, and says, "Congratulations on two counts, firstly on accepting the onerous task of Chief Editor of Makan. I am sure that you will continue the fine job done by Alex Dandie and his predecessors. Secondly to you both on having been presented with a bonnie granddaughter, and having been able to visit your family in England. (The Ed. job remains to be seen.)

Freda and I arrived in Brunei on June 21. My son Peter, is an Electrical Engineer, and lives in Kuala Belait. His firm does the electrical work associated with the Dutch Shell Company's oil installations.

We had a most enjoyable 3 weeks there. Fortunately the weather was kind, hot of course but not unduly wet, so the humidity was reasonable. I was surprised at the number of Australians I met, most of whom were divers working on the oil rigs. The general opinion was that they would prefer to work in Australia, where there is a critical shortage of divers, but the pay here is less than half what they earn in Brunei, and they pay no tax there.

Brunei is still a British Protectorate, but this will end in 1983, when the Sultan Will takeover. I understand that he will still keep the Gurkha troops as an insurance against a takeover by Indonesia.

We were both enamoured of the Panaga Club - the members of which are employees of Shell and it's subsidiaries. Peter and his wife, Moira, are members. There is a magnificent club house, an 18 hole golf course, which we patronised a few times; two football fields; softball fields; tennis courts; Olympic size swimming pool and children's pool; a theatre; billiard tables; No.1 Dining facilities.

I am afraid that the wives (of Europeans) are spoilt — houses are very commodious, air conditioned and luxuriously furnished. All wives have an Amah to do the housework (except Sundays) and care for the children when mum & dad are out. Peter and wife, Moira, have a 2 year & 2 months old daughter, Elizabeth Ann, who speaks English quite well and chats to her amah in Malay. Moira, as do most of the wives, occupies herself socialising and being involved in sporting and welfare committees. By the way, this granddaughter was born in England in Surrey. Peter was in charge of the drafting department for Global Engineering in London for two years.

I was impressed by the street lighting, the quality of the streets and roads and amazed by the brilliance of the street lighting. There does not appear to be the poverty that I expected. It does appear that quite a bit of the revenue from oil is benefiting the community as a whole.

We enjoyed our three weeks in Brunei.

We arrived in Singapore on 13th July. We stayed at the York Hotel, one of the Woodward chain. Naturally I was anxious to see some of the places with which we were once familiar. Our Plane landed at Changi at the new aerodrome, which was opened for use on 1st July. Naturally all signs of our old camp have disappeared. We went on several sight-seeing tours. We drove past the old Changi Gaol which looks much the same as when we resided there. Of course we visited the Kranji War Cemetery, which is beautifully maintained.

My chief impression of Singapore is the vastness of the development, that has occurred and is continuing - the cleanliness of the streets and also the volume of the traffic that fills them. 75% of the population is now Chinese and they certainly know how to work. It is certainly not the Singapore of the 1940's.

Once again we enjoyed ourselves immensely. We arrived back in Sydney on Saturday 18th July. We spent a few days with our daughters, one Pamela lives at Eastwood, and the other Yvonne, lives at Austral. From thence back to Tamworth and a quiet settled life once more.

Well Jock, 'twas nice to hear from you, keep up the good work, Regards to all, Wal Eather."

I asked Wal to supply some information for our files regarding Ron McLean - died 3/4/69 - W.I.A. 25/1/42 - A Company - and the present situation of his widow, Enid. Before the war Ron was a farmer and after the war a storeman at the Tamworth Tech. College. Was  assured by the past principal of the Tech. College that despite his war disabilities he was the best they ever had.

Cause of death Myocardial Infarction (a type of heart failure). T.P.I. was granted after death - (comment, shocking treatment by Repat)

Enid's financial problems OK. As there was no family as a result of the marriage, Enid is living with two spinster sisters. They have sold their home and have purchased a home unit at West Tamworth. The three sisters are all over 70, (they don't look it) and their garden was becoming a problem." (Many thanks Wal for your nice newsy letter and the information. J.)

Fred & Peggy Hume - East Maitland, 2323 - Med. Ord. HQ Company

Fred says hello to everyone, "Do hope all are in good spirits. I'm not too bad these days. Must say thanks to you for information about "Bluey" Neil. Such a shame when he went, when he was so young.

I have fond memories of "Bluey" - we were mates all through our prison days. I remember at No.3 Camp (Kami Sonkurai) on the railway - he myself & another (can't remember his name) went out one afternoon and killed a yak, got it back to camp at night and distributed it amongst the blokes in hospital. Kept a little bit & made myself & Len and Bill Roberts a stew. It was really great stuff."

Supplement to Makan No. 262 July/Sept 1981
2/30 Battalion Association Order Form for New Unit Ties

To: Alex. Dandie

Please forward as soon as available .... new Association tie(s) to me at:
Name:………………………………………….
Address:……………………………………….
Post Code:……………….

My cheque/money order is enclosed for $......in total payment for Tie(s) @ $8.00 each (Post Free)

Please use the rest of this space for your news, views and comments:

Dear Alex:…………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………...............
…………………………………………………………………...............
…………………………………………………………………...............

Supplement to Makan No. 262
Annual Reunion 2/30 Bn. Friday 16th October 1981

Name……………………………………
Also……………………………………..

I/We will be attending Battalion Annual Reunion Smorgasbord
FRIDAY NIGHT at 6.30pm at COMBINED SERVICES CLUB, 5 BARRACK STREET, SYDNEY.
Book with Jack Black.

Japanese Gardens Picnic - Saturday 17th Oct. Lunch (Byo)

Name…………………………………
Also……………………………………

I/We will be attending JAPANESE GARDENS picnic (BYO) at 12.30pm SATURDAY 17th October 1981, at Chiswick Rd., Auburn.
Steaks to be provided by Auxiliary but bring salads, rolls, etc.,

Bookings With Ron Maston

"B.J." Shields Bowls Day at Bankstown R.S.L. Bowling Club

KITCHENER PARADE BANKSTOWN
Starting At 9.30 Am SUNDAY 18th OCTOBER 1981

Name……………………………………
Also……………………………………..

I/We will be attending the "B.J." Shield Bowls Day at Bankstown R.S.L. Bowling Club, Kitchener Pde., Bankstown at 9.30 am.

BOOK WITH KEVIN WARD.

Photos

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