the blue beret: issue no. 46: april 2010

REGISTERED ADDRESS: 5 JEFFREY STREET CAPALABA QLD 4157

www.adgblueberet.org PHONE/FAX: 07 3245 7174 EMAIL: [email protected]

NATIONAL PRESIDENT ..……………….…….………...….. MERV REID

NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT………………….…..….……. HENRY CICHOWSKI

NATIONAL SECRETARY/TREASURER …….……...…....... JIM GABLE

COMMITTEE MEMBERS ..………………….………......….. CHARLES BROWN

MAX HALING

BOB HOLT

MICK SHEEAN

EXECUTIVE ADVISOR …………………………….……...…. GLEN HOMBSCH

BLUE BERET EDITOR .…………………….……….......…. JIM GABLE

NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTIONS TO: ……….….……….... [email protected]

DISCLAIMER Airfield Defence Association Australia Incorporated

takes no responsibility for any errors omissions or inaccuracies contained in this journal.

does not accept any liability for any loss or damage suffered directly or indirectly from the use of information contained in this journal.

Does not warrant that articles or opinions published in this journal are necessarily the opinions held by the Airfield Defence Association Australia Inc.

Edition 46: APRIL 2010

TTHHEE BBLLUUEE BBEERREETT OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE

AIRFIELD DEFENCE ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA INC.

PATRON: AIR MARSHALL S.D. EVANS AC DSO AFC RAAF RET’D

Townsville City: Location for the 2010 AGM and Mini-Reunion

http://www.adgblueberet.org/

mailto:[email protected]

Blue Beret Issue 46: April 2010. Page 1

FROM THE PRESIDENT

The ANZAC Day march in Brisbane this year will be led by the Air Force, with the

Association and uniform contingent in numbers three and four position.

Our forming up point will be the same as usual, on the corner of North Quay and Elizabeth

Streets, opposite Queens Park. Look for the banner from about 8.30 am onwards.

Unfortunately the bulk of 2AFDS won‘t be with us this year due to deployment to Western

Australia, however they will be marching through Learmonth on the day and we wish them

all the best. There is no question that the people of Learmonth will see something special

during that march.

The troops left behind at Amberley will be joining us and will be most welcome to join with

the ―old and bold‖ in all our ANZAC Day activities.

Please Note: Our new Post-March venue is the Boundary Hotel at West End, as per Jim‘s

recent Bulletin. If in doubt, ask a Committee member. South Brisbane Railway Station is

only a short distance away from the Boundary if you‘re thinking of travelling in or out by

train and we‘re working with Adam Hill from the hotel to see if we can arrange some

transport if the demand is there.

We‘re looking forward to seeing and welcoming all our visiting members and families on this

special day of Remembrance, patriotism and comradeship called ANZAC Day. I wish all

members and their families throughout the world a great ANZAC Day - If you can‘t join us

in Brisbane, I hope you will gather somewhere in your localities to have a few, tell tales and

embrace this elite proud mustering of ours. All reports on your day will be greatly

appreciated.

As advised in the last Bulletin, our web site is now up and running. Jim has worked hard on

the mechanics of the project and deserves our thanks. There is still a lot to do to get the site

into proper shape, but we‘re working on that and you will see a steady stream of

improvements as we go down the track. Don‘t think that we‘re abandoning the Pom and his

web site however – his input and hard work over the years is very much appreciated and

provides a great source of information for members and non-members alike.

Another passion of mine for many years has been the untold story of the ADG mustering and

I can now tell you that our proposed book finally has a researcher/author, Dannika Haling,

who is very well qualified for the job and has degrees in journalism and psychology as well

as being closely related to one of our long-time ADGs. Dannika has kindly (and proudly)

agreed to undertake the task and has already provided some much appreciated professional

advice on how to make this a commercial venture. We‘ll be looking for some personal

accounts of experiences both funny and otherwise later on, to add to the official content.

Henry Cichowski is also following up on grants and other funding sources to help make it

happen. I can‘t wait to read the book.

The Memorial at Amberley to honour our fallen is still on track, with the near completion of

new buildings and infrastructure. This is being closely monitored by our serving

representatives on site.


Preparations for the AGM in Townsville are now full on. Our network up there has put

together a great itinerary for the three days and to all involved, especially Dunk Dowling Pop

(ex Doggie), Bob Kinnane and WOFF ―Jungles‖ Hordern, a sincere thank you from all of us.

As you can see, things are happening. Maybe not as fast as I would have liked, but as we all

know, the impossible we do straight away, but miracles take a bit longer.

A special Thank You has to go to our Patron David Evans, who has fought alongside your

elected Committee to ensure that we all receive what we believe to be our entitlements and

our rights. I‘m sure the fight will continue.

To all our Young and Brave on overseas deployment, you are in our thoughts. Return safely

and well – we will be raising a glass to salute you this ANZAC Day.

As always, to everyone on the Sick List, I hope your recovery is swift.

Yours Proudly

Merv (Rip Rip) Reid

National President

Life Member and Living Legend Mick Seibold, now living in Ayr North Queensland.

Pictured with another Legend, Ian “Red” Forbes.


ANZAC DAY Ceremonies in Australia 2010

For details on regional and local Anzac Day ceremonies not listed below, contact your local

RSL Sub-branch or ex-service organisation. All events listed are scheduled to take place on

25th

April 2010 unless otherwise stated.

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY Canberra

Dawn Service

Time: 5:30 am

Venue: Parade Ground, Australian War Memorial

Details: It is suggested that all those attending should arrive by 5:00 am

National Anzac Day Ceremony

Time: 10:15am

Venue: Parade Ground, Australian War Memorial

Details: It is suggested that all those attending should arrive by 9:45am

Anzac Day March

Time: TBA

Venue: Anzac Parade

Details: All enquiries regarding the 2010 March Past should be directed to the RSL ACT

NEW SOUTH WALES Sydney

Dawn Service

Time: 4:15am

Venue: The Cenotaph, Martin Place

Commemorative Service

Time: 12:30pm

Venue: Anzac Memorial, Hyde Park

Details: The parade commences at 9:00am, Cnr Pitt Street and Martin Place. The route for

the march is via Pitt Street, Martin Place, George and Bathurst Streets, to Elizabeth Street

Sunset Service Ceremony

Time: 5:30pm

Venue: The Cenotaph, Martin Place

Bathurst

Dawn Service, March and Anzac Day Service

Time: 4:30am Dawn Service at The Carillion, Russel Street, Bathurst

10:15am assemble at the RSL in Rankin Street for Anzac Day March followed by

Anzac Day service at 10:45am at The Carillion

3:15pm Service at Bathurst Army Camp, Limekilns Road, Bathurst

5:15pm Service at War Graves Cemetery, Mitchell Highway, Bathurst

6:00pm Lowering of the Colours at The Carillion

Venues: Various around Bathurst, main venue The Carillion

Contact: Mr Jim McFerran, Bathurst RSL Sub-branch on (02) 6332 3999


Cooma

Dawn Service

Time: 5:45am

Venue: The Cenotaph, Vale Street (Opposite Post Office). Contact: Mr Peter McMahon,

President on (02) 6452 4640

Goulburn

Dawn Service and Anzac Day Ceremony and March

Time: 5:30am and 11:00am

Venue: War Graves service followed by main service with march

Contact: Mr Gordon Wade, President on (02) 4821 6292

Huskisson

Anzac Day Service

Time: 10:30am (assemble at Hake Street, Huskisson at 10:15am)

Venue: Voyager Park, Huskisson

Contact: Mr Don Handley, Secretary, Huskisson RSL Sub-branch on (02) 4443 7241

Milton

Anzac Day Service Time: 10:30am

Venue: Princess Highway, Milton

Contact: Mr Rick Gallagher, Secretary, Milton/Ulladulla RSL Sub-branch on (02) 4455 7677

Mittagong

Dawn Service

Time: 5:30am (meet at 5:20am at Church Lane to march to Cenotaph)

Venue: Cenotaph on Main Street, Mittagong

Contact: Mr Ken Phillips, Secretary, Mittagong RSL Sub-branch on (02) 4861 7677

Event: Anzac Day Service

Time: 10:45am (meet at 10:15am at Visitors Centre, Main Street to march to Cenotaph)

Venue: Cenotaph on Main Street, Mittagong

Contact: Mr Ken Phillips, Secretary, Mittagong RSL Sub-branch on (02) 4861 7677

Newcastle NB: 18 April 2010

All Services ANZAC Commemoration Service

Time: 6:00pm

Venue: Christ Church Cathedral, Newcastle

Contact: Mr CW McGregor JP, Newcastle District Council of RSL Sub-branches on (02)

4968 3743

Annual Commemoration Service & March

Time: 11:00am

Venue: Sandgate War Cemetery

Contact: Mr JW Punshon, Honorary Secretary, Waratah-Mayfield RSL Sub-branch on (02)

4968 2088

Orange

Dawn Service and March

Time:

5:00am assemble in front of Memorial Hall, Anson Street, Orange for March, then

5:30am service


10:00am assemble in front of Memorial Hall for Anzac Day March

11:00am service

Venue: Cenotaph, Lords Place, Orange

Contact: Mr Brian Merchant, City of Orange RSL Sub-branch on (02) 6362 1735

Parramatta

Dawn Service and March Time:

4:00am assemble at Parramatta RSL Club for March

4:30am Prince Alfred Park, Cnr Victoria Road & Church Street, Parramatta

Contact: Mr Bob Durbin, Parramatta RSL Sub-branch on (02) 9633 5177

Sussex Inlet

Event: Dawn Service

Time: 6:00am

Venue: Memorial Wall at RSL Club

Contact: Mr Bert Lawton, Secretary, Sussex Inlet RSL Sub-branch on (02) 4441 2548

Anzac Day Service Time: 10:00am (assemble at Sub-branch Hall, Nielson Street, Sussex Inlet at 9:30am)

Venue: Memorial Wall at RSL Club

Contact: Mr Bert Lawton, Secretary, Sussex Inlet RSL Sub-branch on (02) 4441 2548

The Entrance

Anzac Day Service followed by luncheon at the Diggers Club, The Entrance

Time: 11:00am

Venue: The Cenotaph, The Entrance

Toukley

Dawn Service

Time: 5:15am

Venue: The Cenotaph, Toukley

Anzac Day March and Service

Time:

March at 9:45am from the Village Green, Canton Beach Road to Main Road then

Athol Street into RSL car park

10:30am Service commences at The Cenotaph at Toukley

Ulladulla

Dawn Service Time: 6:00am

Venue: Kendall Cottage, Ulladulla

Contact: Mr Rick Gallagher, Secretary, Milton/Ulladulla RSL Sub-branch on (02) 4455 7677

Wagga Wagga

Dawn Service

Time: 6:00am

Venue: Victory Gardens – War Memorial

Contact: Mr Kevin Kerr, President on (02) 6921 3528


For further details of Anzac Day Dawn Services and Commemorative Services throughout

New South Wales, please contact the NSW Branch of the RSL on (02) 9264 8188 or refer to

the RSL website www.rsl.org.au.

VICTORIA Melbourne

Dawn Service Time: 6:00am (please arrive by 5:45am)

Venue: Shrine of Remembrance

Details: The northern side of the Shrine

Wreath Laying Ceremony

Time: 8:15am - 8:30am


Anzac Day March

Time: 9:00am

Venue: Cnr of Swanston St and Flinders St. Continues along St Kilda Rd to the Shrine where

all participants march up to the forecourt.

Commemoration Ceremony Time: 12:45pm



Victoria, please contact the Victoria Branch of the RSL on (03) 9655 5555 or refer to the

RSL website www.rsl.org.au.

QUEENSLAND Brisbane

Midnight Service Time: 12:00am

Venue: Shrine of Remembrance, Anzac Square, Ann Street

Veterans’ March Time: 4:10am

Venue: King George Square, Ann Street

Details: Veterans will depart at 4:10am, arriving at Anzac Square for the Dawn Service


Venue: Shrine of Remembrance, Anzac Square, Ann Street

Details: This traditional dawn service commences at 4:28am, the time of the original ANZAC

landing at Gallipoli in 1915

Dawn Service

Time: 5:15am

Venue: Greenslopes Private Hospital, Newdegate Street, Greenslopes

Details: A Gunfire breakfast will follow the service

Commemoration Service Time: 8:00am

http://www.rsl.org.au./

http://www.rsl.org.au/


Venue: Corvettes Memorial, Newstead Park, Brisbane

Details: The service is being organised by the Naval Association of Australia

Anzac Day March

Time: 10:00am

Venue: March will start at the corner of George and Elizabeth Streets

Details: The march will proceed along George Street, right into Adelaide Street, right into

Creek Street, where the parade will disband.

Buses will take Association members from the dispersal point to the Boundary Hotel at West

End. Limited parking at the hotel and in nearby streets will also be available. An entry fee of

$5.00 per person payable at the hotel will be collected and a barbecue and discounted drinks

will be available. The Association will have full use of the hotel for the duration of the day.

Banyo

Veterans’ March and Anzac Day Ceremony

Time:

6:45am march commences outside the Tufnell Road Pharmacy, Banyo

7:00am ceremony commences at the War Memorial, Cnr Royal Parade & St Vincents

Road, Banyo

Details: A sausage sizzle, tea and coffee, will follow the Commemoration service

Currumbin/Palm Beach

Dawn Service

Time: 4:30am

Venue: Elephant Rock, Currumbin Beach

Anzac Day Service

Time: 10:55am

Venue: Elephant Rock, Currumbin Beach

Holland Park/Mt Gravatt

Veterans’ March and Commemoration Service Time:

7:15 am muster at the Old Post Office, Cnr Logan & Barter Avenues, march to

Memorial Hall, Holland Park commences at 7:30am

7:50am Commemoration service at Memorial Hall, Holland Park

Details: A sausage sizzle will follow the Commemoration service

Townsville

Dawn Service

Time: 5:50am

Venue: The Strand

Anzac Day March

Time: 9:00am

Venue: Commencing at The Strand


Queensland, please contact the Queensland Branch of the RSL on (07) 3634 9444 or refer to

the RSL website www.rsl.org.au.



SOUTH AUSTRALIA Adelaide

24 April 2010

Anzac Eve Youth Vigil

Time: 6:00pm until Dawn Service

Venue: State National War Memorial, North Terrace

25 April 2010


Venue: State National War Memorial, North Terrace

Anzac Day Service Time: 7:00am

Venue: Chapel, Repatriation General Hospital, Daw Park

Anzac Day March

Time: 9:30am

Venue: Commences at State National War Memorial, North Terrace, proceeds down North

Terrace and King William Street to the Cross of Sacrifice, Pennington Gardens, North

Adelaide

Anzac Day Service

Time: 11:00am

Venue: Cross of Sacrifice, Pennington Gardens, North Adelaide


South Australia, please contact the South Australian Branch of the RSL on (08) 8232 0322 or

refer to the RSL website www.rsl.org.au.

NORTHERN TERRITORY Darwin

Dawn Service

Time: 6:00am

Venue: Darwin Cenotaph, The Esplanade


the Northern Territory, please contact the Darwin Sub- Branch of the RSL on (08) 8981 5437

or refer to the RSL website www.rsl.org.au.

TASMANIA Hobart

Dawn Service

Time: 6:00am

Venue: Hobart Cenotaph

Anzac Day March

Time: 11:00am

Venue: The March departs from the Hobart Town Hall

Details: The March will proceed to the Hobart Cenotaph

Anzac Day Service

Time: 12:00pm

Venue: Hobart Cenotaph




Launceston

Dawn Service

Time: 6:00am

Venue: Launceston Cenotaph

Anzac Day March Time: 10:15am

Venue: The March departs from Princes Square

Details: The March will proceed to the Launceston Cenotaph

Anzac Day Service

Time: 10:45am

Venue: Launceston Cenotaph


Tasmania, please contact the Tasmanian Branch of the RSL on (03) 6224 0881 or refer to the

RSL website www.rsl.org.au.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Perth

Dawn Service Time: 5:45am commencement of service (4:30am ‗Spirit of ANZAC‘ archival footage

screened)

Venue: State War Memorial, Fraser Avenue, Kings Park

Details: Limited seating will be available and limited parking for the aged, frail and disabled.

Please contact the RSL regarding seating and parking


Time:

Step off 9:20am (forming up areas on RSL website)

Service commences 11:00am

Venue: March commences east of Barrack Street and finishes on the Esplanade where the

Anzac Day Service will be conducted.

Details: Transport for veterans who are no longer able to march can be organised. Please

contact the RSL

Albany

Dawn Service

Time: 5:30am

Venue: Desert Mounted Corps Memorial, Mount Clarence

Contact: Mr Phil Maguire, Secretary, Albany RSL Sub-branch on (08) 9841 1787

Anzac Day March and Service Time: 10:00am

Venue: Form up – Cnr Stirling Terrace and Spencer Street

Contact: Mr Phil Maguire, Secretary, Albany RSL Sub-branch on (08) 9841 1787

Bunbury

Dawn Service

Time: 6:00am (Veterans wishing to march to the Dawn Service form up at 5:45am at RSL

Hall)

Venue: Anzac Memorial, Bunbury CBD

Contact: Mr Trevor Kenny, President, Bunbury RSL Sub-branch on 0419 846 315



Anzac Day March

Time: 10:45am form up at RSL Hall

Venue: Bricknell Shell, Bunbury CBD

Contact: Mr Trevor Kenny, President, Bunbury RSL Sub-branch on 0419 846 315

Fremantle

Dawn Service

Time: 5:30am

Venue: Monument Hill Memorial, Cnr High and Swanbourne Streets

Anzac Day Parade Time:

Assembly 9:45am and step off 10:15am

Service commences 11:00am

Venue: Parade starts at the Esplanade Reserve and proceed through main streets of

Fremantle, returning to the Esplanade for the closing ceremony

Contact: City of Fremantle on (08) 9432 9830 or refer to the website

www.fremantle.wa.gov.au

Geraldton

Dawn Service Time: 6:00am (Veterans wishing to march to the Dawn Service form up at 5:50am at Cnr

Chapman Road & Durlacher Street)

Venue: Birdwood House

Contact: Mr Alex Elliot, Secretary, Geraldton City RSL Sub-branch on (08) 9921 5595

Anzac Day March and Service Time: 10:45am Form up in Foreshore Drive, near Marine Terrace intersection. March

commences at 11:00am

Venue: Birdwood House

Contact: Mr Alex Elliott, Secretary, Geraldton City RSL Sub-branch on (08) 9921 5595

Kalgoorlie

Dawn Service

Time: 6:05am (Veterans wishing to march to the Dawn Service form up at 6:00am at Cnr

Wilson & Dugan Streets)

Venue: Kalgoorlie War Memorial

Contact: Mr Gary Scott, President, Kalgoorlie RSL Sub-branch on 0417 974 994


Time: 10:45am Form up at front of Old Kalgoorlie Post Office, Hannan Street

Venue: Kalgoorlie Town Hall

Contact: Mr Gary Scott, President, Kalgoorlie RSL Sub-branch on 0417 974 994


Western Australia, please contact the Western Australian Branch of the RSL on (08) 9287

3799 or refer to the RSL website www.rslwahq.org.au.

http://www.fremantle.wa.gov.au/

http://www.rslwahq.org.au./


ANZACS AND WAR WIDOWS OFFERED A FREE RIDE WITH GREYHOUND

Greyhound Australia will again honour the sacrifice of Australia‘s war veterans and war

widows by offering them FREE transport to Anzac celebrations on April 24, 25 (ANZAC

DAY) and 26 across its entire network.

This is the third year Greyhound Australia has offered the free service to assist veterans and

war widows to attend Anzac Day commemoration ceremonies, share memories and catch up

throughout Australia.

Chief Executive Officer Robert Thomas said Greyhound staff took great pride in showing

their deep respect for the nation‘s veterans and the war widows in this way.

―This offer is for all Australian veterans no matter when they served or whether it was in Iraq,

East Timor, Afghanistan, Korea, Malaya, Japan, the Pacific Islands, Africa or Europe,‖ Mr

Thomas said.

―Greyhound Australia is 100% Australian-made and owned and it‘s the nation‘s oldest

operating bus company. Our history is also tied into the history of this nation and the

company had its own role during war.

―We helped transport troops and their families as they headed off to war.

―It‘s an honour to be able to offer this free service as a small thank you to all those who did

so much to protect our way of life.‖

Mr Thomas said the free rides would help old diggers and war widows to reconnect for

Anzac Day.

―It doesn‘t matter where a veteran resides, whether it‘s Ballarat or Sydney. If you want to go

to one of the 1100 destinations Greyhound services daily to attend a specific Anzac parade

and meet up with old friends we will get you there for free,‖ he said.

Mr Thomas said it was with the support of the Returned and Services League of Australia

(RSL) that Greyhound was able to undertake the huge logistical work needed to organise the

Anzac Day special.

―In order for veterans and war widows to receive their complementary travel Greyhound

Australia has had to create a special process,‖ he said.

―To secure the free travel they must book via our National Call Centre on ―1300

GREYHOUND‖ or 1300 47 39 46 and introduce themselves as a Veteran or a Veteran‘s

widow.‖


SHARING THE ANZAC TRADITION WITH THE NEXT GENERATION OF AUSTRALIANS

Minister for Veterans‘ Affairs Alan Griffin and students from Queensland‘s Mater Dei

Primary School officially launched the Anzac Day Schools‘ Awards at Parliament House in

Canberra on Thursday, 25 March 2010

As Anzac Day approaches, Mr Griffin encouraged primary and secondary school students to

begin preparing their entries for this year‘s awards. ―The Anzac Day Schools‘ Awards bring

together students and the veteran community. This is a valuable opportunity for students to

share and display their understanding the significance of Anzac Day and its meaning for

veterans, as well as younger generations,‖ Mr Griffin said.

―Winners of the 2009 Anzac Day Schools‘ Awards, the Mater Dei school students were

awarded the prize for their well-researched and thoughtful tribute to those who served in

defence of our nation. ―I‘m pleased that schools are taking the opportunity to invite veterans

to share their stories and pay tribute to them at school events. Entries in past years have also

included artwork, a collection of wartime stories from local veterans and serving members

and class research projects into our wartime history.

―The Anzac Day Schools‘ Awards is one way we are ensuring the next generation of

Australians learn the traditions of Anzac Day and the stories of the men and women who

have served our country and continue to serve us today,‖ Mr Griffin said.

The Anzac Day Schools‘ Awards are open to all Australian primary and secondary schools

and entries close on Friday, 21 May 2010. Winners will be announced later in the year.

Anzac Day Schools' Awards are judged by representatives from the ex-service community,

teachers and the Department of Veterans‘ Affairs. In 2009, 155 primary and secondary

schools entered the competition and 21 schools shared in $22,500 in prize money for their

efforts.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

1. It is easier to get forgiveness than permission.

2. For every action, there is an equal and opposite government program.

3. If you look like your passport picture, you probably need the trip.

4. There is always one more imbecile than you counted on.

5. Thou shalt not weigh more than thy refrigerator.

6. Light travels faster than sound. That's why some people appear bright ... until they speak.

7. Someone who thinks logically provides a nice contrast to the real world.

8. Age is a very high price to pay for maturity.

9. Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity.

10. Not one shred of evidence supports the notion that life is serious.

11. No man has ever been shot while doing the dishes.

12. A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand.

13. If you must choose between two evils, pick the one you've never tried before.


EDITED MINUTES OF THE NATIONAL COMMITTEE MEETING OF 8 APRIL 2010

Present: Henry Cichowski, Jim Gable, Max Haling, Bob Holt, Glen Hombsch, Tom Nelson,

Merv Reid(Chairman).

Apologies: Charlie Brown, Mick Sheean.

Merv Reid welcomed Tom Nelson to the meeting and thanked Glen Hombsch for being

present despite his present treatment schedule.

BUSINESS ARISING

Ground Combat Insignia

Merv Reid advised that he hadn‘t heard from Air Force HQ for some time on this matter. It

was assumed that the issue was progressing.

Monument/Historical Collection

Tom Nelson advised that the new construction is going well since the end of the rain. The

rifle flight buildings were on track to be completed by August/September and the

Headquarters buildings by February/March next year. The Historical Collection is now in

storage until the HQ building is ready and it was noted that the proposed office for the

Association was still on track.

Rooms in the new buildings would be named after areas where the Squadron has previously

been on active service and the actual building would be named the Thomas Irvine Building.

Glen Hombsch asked if it would be possible for lecture rooms, streets etc to be named for

prominent members of the mustering/category. Tom Nelson agreed that this could be looked

at further down the track. Current planning is now for the monument to be placed in a

courtyard near the main building. Tom undertook to prepare a précis for the AGM.

History of Airfield Defence Glen Hombsch advised that he was now up to the Rathmines era and the task was becoming

more interesting, as he can now start to write from his own experiences. It was noted that

several of the early Rathmines ADI group had served two tours in Korea , but were not

welcomed by the rest of the base.

Jim Gable provided a brief overview of the comments by Dannika Haling at the last meeting

and it was agreed that Glen and Dannika should start to work together.

Henryk Cichowski advised that he had worked through the options for grant funding and it

that the only appropriate sources were the Jupiter‘s Casino fund and DVA itself.

On Line Blue Beret

Jim Gable advised that he had not yet heard back from the developer regarding the Log In

and Password issues and was still waiting to hear back concerning uploading the newsletter to

the website. Members were advised that if these issues were not resolved within the next two

weeks, the current issue would probably be distributed by mail in the usual way and the first

internet issue would be the August edition. It was suggested that a new page be added

containing Application Forms etc for downloading as required.

2010 AGM Townsville

Jim Gable advised that he needed costings and other details so that the Registration Forms

could be sent out as soon as possible. Merv Reid undertook to contact Don Dowling to get the


information. He also advised that he had contacted the Raintree Motel in Townsville and had

increased the room bookings in accordance with the Expressions of Interest.

The motel would accept individual payments and breakfast facilities were available. The

Association had been offered the corporate room rateand these savings would be passed on.

Merv advised that the dinner on Saturday night would be a buffet arrangement and suggested

smart casual dress for the evening. It was also noted that a comprehensive program for

Sunday‘s tour of the Townsville RAAF Base was being prepared and that the Air Force

would provide buses to take members to and from the base.

Jim Gable advised that he would write to the Base Commander formally requesting approval

for the tour and would also ask for numbers of Serving Members who wished to attend the

dinner on Saturday night.

2010 ANZAC Day arrangements Brisbane Jim Gable advised that the Order of March had been received and the Association had been

placed at position No. 47, directly behind the 2AFDS Contingent. This meant that the

Association would be the fourth Unit to step off in the parade behind the traditional official

leaders, given that Air Force was leading the march this year.

Tom Nelson confirmed that 2AFDS would not be present as they would be on deployment to

Learmonth and would be marching in Learmonth town on ANZAC Day. Merv Reid also

confirmed that the March Organising Committee had been advised of this some time

previously and undertook to sort the matter.

It was agreed that access to the dispersal point by the buses from the Boundary Hotel could

be a problem, as the majority of the units marching would not have stepped off by the time

the Association and the uniformed contingent had finished the march. Merv Reid advised that

he had also raised this with the Organising Committee and had been told that there would be

no problems. Official Access permits were also being sent out by the RSL for the Boundary

buses, which would allow them to park in Queens Street.

FINANCIAL REPORT Jim Gable advised that the Association‘s Financial Year closed on 31

st March and the books

and financial records had been delivered to the Auditors on 6th

April. The Auditor had been

requested to make sure that everything was returned no later than 31st May, so that the Audit

Report could be printed for distribution at the AGM.

A financial Statement for the period 1 March to 31 March 2010 was tabled, discussed and

adopted. It was noted that the $300.00 payment for advertising from Nolan‘s Travelworld had

been deposited.

MEMBERSHIP

Noted that Frank Wilmink and Neil Andersen had both resigned from the Association.

Applications for General Membership had been received from Norm McKenzie and Peter

Cox. The Applications were tabled for comment and it was resolved that they both be

accepted and the new members be advised in the usual way.

GENERAL BUSINESS:

Ipswich Ambassador Bob Holt advised that Spike Dainer had recently been appointed as the 2010 Ipswich

Ambassador. Members offered their congratulations to Spike on his achievement.


AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE SERVICE RECORDS & MEDICAL RECORDS

Members and former members of the ADF can obtain copies of Service and Medical records

from the contacts below. PLEASE NOTE: Some fees may be involved.

For copies of your or your ancestor’s service records:

Service Records

Proof of identity or Next-of-Kin relationship is required and all requests require a signature.

Due to privacy restrictions, specific regulations apply to the distribution of confidential

personnel records.

Contact Contact Details Postal

Navy -

Personnel Records RAN

Phone: 02 6266 5962

Fax: 02 6266 5851 Queanbeyan Annex 2,

Department of Defence

Canberra ACT 2600

Army -

Central Army Records

Office

Phone: 03 9282 5393 or

03 9282 6235

Fax: 03 9282 5434

E-mail: [email protected]

GPO Box 393

Melbourne VIC 3001

Air Force -

Personnel Records RAAF

Phone: 02 6266 5965

Fax: 02 6266 5851 Queanbeyan Annex 2,

Department of Defence

Canberra ACT 2600

Historical service

records –

WWI and WW2

National Archives of

Australia

Phone: 1300 886 881

E-mail: [email protected]

http://www.naa.gov.au

For copies of your or your ancestor’s medical records:

Health/Medical records World War II: Contact the Department of Veterans' Affairs – 1800 555 254.

For details Post 1947: Australian Defence Force Health Records - Army (ADFHR-A)

GPO Box 1932

MELBOURNE VIC 3001

Telephone Number: (03) 9282 4911

Fax Number: (03) 9282 5978




http://www.naa.gov.au/


TOURISM QUESTIONS These were posted on an Australian Tourism website. We are told that the answers are the

actual responses by the website officials, who obviously have a great sense of humour (and a

low opinion of stupid people.

Q: I want to walk from Perth to Sydney - can I follow the railroad tracks? (SWEDEN)

A: Sure, it's only three thousand miles, take lots of water.

Q:Can you give me some information about hippo racing in Australia? (USA)

A: A-Fri-ca is the big triangle shaped continent south of Europe. Aus-tra-lia is that big island

in the middle of the Pacific which does not ... Oh forget it. Sure, the hippo racing is every

Tuesday night in Kings Cross. Come naked.

Q: Which direction is North in Australia? (USA)

A: Face south and then turn 180 degrees. Contact us when you get here and we'll send the rest

of the directions.

Q: Can I bring cutlery into Australia? (UK)

A: Why? Just use your fingers like we do...

Q: Can you send me the Vienna Boys' Choir schedule? (USA)

A: Aus-tri-a is that quaint little country bordering Ger-man-y, which is..... Oh forget it. Sure,

the Vienna Boys Choir plays every Tuesday night in Kings Cross, straight after the hippo

races. Come naked.

Q: Can I wear high heels in Australia?(UK)

A: You are a British politician, right?

Q: Are there supermarkets in Sydney and is milk available all year round?(GERMANY)

A: No, we are a peaceful civilisation of vegan hunter- gatherers. Milk is illegal.

Q: Please send a list of all doctors in Australia who can dispense Rattlesnake serum

(USA).

A: Rattlesnakes live in A-mer-i-ca which is where YOU come from. All Australian snakes

are perfectly harmless, can be safely handled and make good pets.

Q: I have a question about a famous animal in Australia, but I forget its name. It's a kind

of bear and lives in trees. (USA. )

A: It‘s called a Drop Bear. They are so called because they drop out of Gum trees and eat the

brains of anyone walking underneath them. You can scare them off by spraying yourself with

human urine before you go out walking.

Q: I have developed a new product that is the fountain of youth. Can you tell me where I

can sell it in Australia?(USA)

A: Anywhere significant numbers of Americans gather.

Q: Do you celebrate Christmas in Australia? (FRANCE)

A: Only at Christmas.

Q: Will I be able to speak English most places I go? (USA)

A: Yes, but you‘ll have to learn it first.


AN ADG FLIGHT IN DARWIN? YOU’D BETTER BELIEVE IT A RECOLLECTION OF THE FORGOTTEN FIFTH -

5 RIFLE FLT, BASE SQUADRON DARWIN By Spike Dainer

I recently fielded a question from Wayne Bird, who was the FLT SNCO for the long lost

Darwin ADG FLT, about the existence of a FLT badge for the Darwin ADG FLT we so

proudly served in the 1970s. I couldn‘t remember having a FLT badge and made some

enquiries about who might have a recollection of one. During those enquiries it became clear

to me that some of the old and bold did not believe that a Darwin FLT actually existed, so

with a little help from some friends, I would like to offer a recollection of No 5 FLT or as it

seems, ―The Forgotten Fifth‖

In mid 1971, the then Air Force Headquarters in Canberra determined that with the ever

growing number of ADGs accumulating in the four ADG FLTs on the eastern seaboard,

perhaps the time was right to expand. The sudden growth in numbers was caused by the

withdrawal of troops from Vietnam and continuing graduation of ADG Basic courses from

GDTF 3AD, the precursor for what is now known at RAAFSFS. Initially, it was proposed to

establish an ADG FLT at Darwin and later one at Edinburgh, however, the Edinburgh option

never came to fruition. Given that a posting to Darwin in those days was still very much a

remote posting, volunteers were called for to establish the FLT.

Sitting in the crew room at 4 FLT at Fairbairn about September 1971, Barry Twomey, Geoff

Krebs, John Scott, Larry Searle, Mick Fenwick and I were listening to some riveting lecture

from Jock Gregor when the FLTCDR, Brian (gee they are really long legs Brian) Lawler told

us the news about the Darwin push and said names by the end of the day please. Someone

said that sounds like a good idea as it would no doubt be a bit warmer in Darwin than

Canberra, so by the time postings had been issued, clearances done we were on our way

about late November. Unfortunately, Mick and Larry decided to get married so that changed

their plans. Travel time to Darwin was one day as the approved method of travel was to fly.

So for the road trip, we actually had to take 11 days recreation leave. Don‘t know that

today‘s young blokes would tolerate that situation!!

We lobbed into Darwin after a somewhat eventful drive from Canberra (a story in itself),

stopping off at Tindal where we met the first section who had arrived earlier and were already

doing their first one month rotation at Tindal. I recall Taffy Morgan, Tank Macarty, Jazza

O‘Gorman and some others at that first welcome, but after a couple of cold ones, it then got a

bit fuzzy. Continuing on and arriving in Darwin the next day, we joined the likes of Jock

Nicol, Jimmy Lange, Terry May, Peter Beckwith, Jim Wilson, Bronco Payne, Phil Crisp,

Stretch Mussig and our fearless leader Bill ―Dizzy‖ Dean. I‘m not sure Dizzy quite knew

what to make of that lot, but for better or worse, the Darwin ADG FLT was open for

business. Apologies to anybody I have left out, but, with the help of Tank Macarty, I have

compiled a list of FLT members, who to the best of our recollection served in the ―Forgotten

Fifth‖ and they are mentioned at the end of this article.

We received a somewhat warm welcome from the locals in Darwin, indeed it was a surprise

to be offered a stubbie with a welcome handshake from the techos in the boozer. This was a

surprise, as all four ADG FLTs had been assembled for the first time as a ―Squadron‖ for a

major exercise at Darwin about 18 months previously, in January 1970, and suffice to say our


stay was not kindly remembered by the locals. During the end of exercise drink-athon, there

had been some nasty altercations, fully justified on our part of course, with techos who didn‘t

appreciate the contribution we had made to the exercise and questioned the overall worth of

ADGs. While we thought we helped clarify these misunderstandings, higher RAAF

management didn‘t see it that way and the ―Squadron‖ was asked to leave town.

However, they were willing to let bygones be bygones and the reason for their friendliness

soon became clear when, after clearing in, we realised we had been drafted in as permanent

main gate guards, which explained why the techos were glad to see us. So we settled into a

routine of one month gate guard, one month section duties and one month down at Tindal on

care and maintenance duty. Section duty included the odd activity with the Army, but mostly

we honed on our field engineering skills, building the bowling green, the golf course, the 23

m range and a five mile concertina fence around the seaward perimeter of the Francis Bay

ammo dump and the western perimeter of the RAAF Base.

Gate guard duty was mind numbingly boring and the less recalled the better. However, I do

remember one night when Jimmy Lange, who was on his regular stint of CB for some minor

indiscretion, stopped a car leaving the base and asked where they were going. On being told

they were off to the speedway, Jimmy gave that cheeky grin he was renowned for, tossed me

his hat and said, see you later. Nothing particularly unusual about that, except that Jim had

the keys to the back gate, so chaos reigned for two days until he gave himself and the keys

up.

On another occasion Kev Guy and I were on duty on New Years Eve. About 2100 hrs 31

Dec 1971, for a bit of a laugh Kev decided that the next car through the gate should be levied

a ―two can‖ gesture of good will for the ADGs working on New Years Eve. Well it got a bit

out of hand as everybody passing through the gate got into the spirit and at the end of the

shift we needed a Ute to take the half a dozen slabs we had accumulated off to the New Years

Eve party we were going to. To be fair, we left some behind for the midnight shift, but they

kept it going and managed to do all right for themselves.

Tindal duty was very relaxed with our own house, car boozer and swimming pool. Life was

pretty good.

The Pool, Tindal 1972

We were essentially left to our own devices and one or two blokes, particularly Kevvie Guy

turned into regular Crocodile Dundee‘s, hunting and exploring the Top End. We used to

collect our rations from the Katherine store, the shopping list having been sent down from

Darwin. As you can imagine there was a lot of waste as we single blokes tended to cook on

the barbie, so many of the perishables did just that - perished. One day the Katherine store

manager lamented us getting all the fresh fruit and veges when he could have been selling


them to the locals for a much better price. Phil Crisp pondered this and suggested to the

manager ―what if a case of lettuce could translate into a carton of Winfield reds and a slab of

VB, would that assist his fruit and veg section?‖ ―Done‖ said the manager and a wonderful

relationship was born.

FLT life was livened up with

the arrival from time to time of

attached ADG sections that

dropped in on various

exercises. I vividly recall a

visit from the Amberley blokes

which included Rex Milner

and our late cobber Blue

McLeod. My then fiancé

Heather and some of her

nursing friends organised a

fundraising dance at the

hospital auditorium one night

and the Darwin FLT plus Phil Crisp on patrol, Tindal 1972

Amberley visitors contributed significantly to the male crowd of about 100, the others being

local long haired yobbo civilians of various repute. At night‘s end, when the ugly lights

came on, Blue noticed that the floor was awash with about three inches of spilt grog and the

joint was very messy. When he realised that the nurses would have to clean up the mess on

their own, he suggested that we blokes should give them a hand. No worries to us, but the

local civvies scoffed at the idea and headed for the doors. Blue told Rex to take one door and

he took the other. Rex relieved one

or two of the shirkers of their

consciousness, and Blue introduced

another to the horizontal prone

position, the others saw the error of

their ways and willingly pitched in to

help with the clean-up. Ah those

were the days!!

Over 1972 and 1973 the FLT

expanded with new arrivals, however,

by late ‗73 there were some

departures as blokes finished their

two year posting. At the same time

others left to commence advanced

training on section leader and GSI

Changeover: Ben, Phil, Spike, Burgo, Tank. Tindal 1972 courses and didn‘t return. Dizzy moved

on and was replaced by Peter Teece who injected a new lease of life onto what had become a

bit of a moribund FLT as there seemed no end to the cycle of guard and Tindal rotation.

By the end of 1973 the Whitlam Government‘s austerity measures, which had impacted

heavily on Defence, were starting to bite and those who left over Christmas 73‘/74 were not

replaced.


Some of us had volunteered for a 12 month extension on our

original two years but by mid 1974, it was clear that Darwin

was being wound up and only a Defence section responsible

for continuation training would remain. Of course come

Christmas day 1974 the city of Darwin and the operational

functions of the RAAF Base also ceased to exist as a result of

the damage inflicted by cyclone Tracey.

In 1975, many southern ADGs volunteered to join the

combined services workforce that was sent to Darwin to

clean up after the cyclone. Some of those blokes might have

met a couple of resident Darwin ADGs but had no idea that a

fully functional operational ADG FLT had been in existence

up until a couple of months prior to their arrival. Over the

following years, a formal ground defence presence was re-

established as the RAAF Base was rebuilt, but the Darwin

ADG FLT was no more.

Looking back as a participant, the experiment of establishing a new FLT was an experience

those who participated will no doubt have mixed feeling about. From my perspective, I only

have positive reflections. I suppose one measure of the FLTs brief tenure might be that of all

the singlies who made their way to Darwin, my back of the beer coaster calculations indicate

that about 80% got married while there. I guess it wasn‘t just the warm weather that was so

attractive.

So when reflecting on past glories of 1,2,3 and 4 FLTs, raise a glass to the Forgotten Fifth

and all those who served in it.

5 FLT Darwin Members 1971 – 1975

Dizzy Dean, Peter Teece, Wayne Bird, Jim Wilson, Taffy Morgan, Jazza O‘Gorman, Blue

Mckinnon, Kev Edwards, Kev Guy, Bronco Payne, Jock Nicol, Jack Horwood, Leapy Lee,

Wiz Nelson, Jeff Krebs, John Scott, Barry Twomey, Russ Carrier, Ray Nicholson, Chris

Little, Stretch Mussig, Peter Burgin, Dutchy van Heek, Terry May, Jimmy Lange, Peter

Beckwith, Col McCubbin, Blue Jeffress, Ben Hall, Jock Boyle, Ben Kuchel, Tubby Burgess,

Mick Brodie, Blue Clements, Tank Macarty, Spike Dainer.

Please let the editor know if I have missed anybody out.

CHANGED YOUR ADDRESS?

If you have moved or are planning to move soon, don‘t forget to let us know, so that we can

keep in touch and keep you up to date on what‘s happening.

Also, please let us know if you‘ve recently changed or are planning to change your email

address.

Terry and Jock in charge –

Tindal 1972


PENSIONS AND ALLOWANCES RISE

Veterans' pensions increased from 20 March following the latest round of indexation adjust-

ments and the single rate of service pension has topped $700 for the first time. The first full

payment at the new rates of pension will be paid from payday 8 April 2010.

The maximum rate of single service pension including pension supplement has increased by

$29.20 to $701.10 per fortnight and the maximum rate for couples has increased by $22.00 to

$528.50 per fortnight (each). The Special (T&PI) rate of disability pension increased by

$47.20 to $1069.30 per fortnight; Extreme Disablement Adjustment increased to $590.20 per

fortnight and the 100 per cent General Rate of disability pension increased to $379.90 per

fortnight. The pension paid to war widows increased by $30.60 to $709.60 per fortnight,

while the ceiling rate of the income support supplement, which is paid to some 80,000 war

widows, rose to $211.90 per fortnight.

Benefits paid under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act (MRCA) also

increased: The MRCA wholly dependent partners periodic payment is $354-80 per week,

paid fortnightly.

More information on the new pension rates is available from DVA on 133 254. 1800 555 254

(for regional callers) or at http://www.dva.gov.au.

New Pension Rates From 20 March 2010

Seniors Supplement The Seniors Supplement is paid quarterly in March, June, September and December and

combines the value of the old Seniors Concession Allowance and the Telephone Allowance

for Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) holders and eligible DVA gold card

holders. Quarterly payments may vary due to the number of days in that quarter. The 25th

March 2010 instalment is $196.30 for single cardholders and $148.20 for a cardholder who is

partnered. It will be paid for the three months to 19 March 2010. The rate of Seniors

Supplement is reviewed twice each year to ensure it is in line with the cost of living. If the

rate increases, the new rate takes effect from 20 March and 20 September each year.

SERVICE PENSION Old rate New rate Increase

Single person $671.90 $701.10 $29.20

Couples (each) $506.50 $528.50 $22.00

Single person-transitional $624.90 $634.30 $9.40

Couples (each}-transitional $504.70 $512.30 $7.60

WAR WIDOWS

War widow's pension $679.00 $709.60 $30.60

Income support supplement $202.50 $211.90 $ 9.40 DISABILITY PENSION

TPI (Special Rate) $1022.10 $1069.30 $47.20

EDA $564.10 $590.20 $26.10

100 per cent $363.10 $379.90 $16.80

10 per cent $36.31 $37.99 $1.68

MRCA

Wholly dependent partners $339.50 $354.80 pw $15.30

death benefit

Special rate disability pension (SRDP)

$511.05 $534.65 pw $23.60

http://www.dva.gov.au/


THE 173D AIRBORNE BRIGADE NATIONAL MEMORIAL:

DEDICATION 1ST JUNE 2010

Australians and New Zealanders who were killed while under the operational control of the

173d Airborne Brigade, US Army during 1965-66 will be listed on their National Memorial.

This will be the only memorial on US soil to list the names of the Aussies and Kiwis, quite

possibly the world - no greater honour or acknowledgement could be given to our mates.

The 173d Airborne Brigade Memorial will be located on the Walk of Honour at their nation's

new National Infantry Museum, immediately adjacent to Fort Benning, Georgia, USA, on

land fully accessible to the general public. The location is an integral part of the National

Infantry Museum, stated to be among the premier attractions in that area, designed with

ample space to expand.

This is a memorial to all who have served or will serve in the 173d Airborne Brigade,

especially to those who fell in combat, whose names will be listed from all engagements, in

the order in which they were taken from us.

The design is built on the concept of a circle of sacred ground with the Wing and Sword

(from their patch) dramatically rising toward the sky and their story told under its banner. A

monument that provides opportunity for reflection as well as commemoration. A destination

that can help veterans tell their children and grandchildren (and yes, great-grandchildren)

about their service, their legacy, and their comrades, with the benefit of an extraordinary

museum that helps them understand what we did and why we did it.

The dedication will take place at 10:00 am on the 1st June 2010 just about 45 years, to the

day, of the 1 RAR Group‘s arrival in Vietnam.

TELEMARKETER SCARE CAMPAIGN A SCAM

A scam email is circulating the internet claiming that people‘s mobile phone numbers are

being released to telemarketing companies and people will be charged if they receive a call

from one of these telemarketers.

Concerned members have contacted the Association after receiving the emails. The

Australian Communications and Media Authority is aware of the email being circulated and

has advised that the email is a hoax which originated in North America.

The reference to mobiles being charged for incoming calls refers to the system in the USA,

but does not apply to Australia. In Australia telemarketers are already permitted to call

mobile phones but they are unable to charge you for that call

If you are concerned about being contacted by telemarketers you can list your Australian

fixed line and mobile numbers on the Government‘s Do Not Call Register. Telemarketers

who contact numbers listed on this register may be in breach of legislation and can face a

penalty. To add your number to the register phone 1300 792 958 or register online at

www.donotcall.gov.au.

www.donotcall.gov.au


A HISTORY OF AIRFIELD DEFENCE (1940 - 1945) as seen by

the late 26032 Sgt. W.T. Bowie

In the following article, as an original RAAF Guard, I have tried to show what the ADGs did from the start in 1940 until the war's end in 1945. I have just stated facts as I remember them without going into great detail, gory or otherwise, to tell how ADGs from a rather mundane start (1940) built into an excellent

fighting force (1945).

I am proud to have been one of them (ADGs) and to have been part of the Airfield Defence Force which

did the job of protecting airfields from the battles of Darwin and Milne Bay, up through the islands culminating in the Borneo landings of Tarakan, Labuan and Balikpapan.

The history of Airfield Defence has been added to in later years i.e. Korea, Malaya, Vietnam etc. and it is

pleasing to know that the Airfield Defence Association is seeing to it that this history is not forgotten.

To an "Old-timer" it is also pleasing to know that the Airfield Defence Squadrons are still in existence and

I am sure are being efficiently maintained by younger brigade of Airfield Defence Guards.

PART EIGHT (FINAL)

The Japanese were still to be convinced of the end of the war and so it was business as usual

for us. The next two months was a matter of doing the job with the tension gradually easing,

Allied POWs being released and Japanese becoming POWs. It took a fair while for the them

to give up, but with leaflets being dropped continually telling them of the end of war and how

to give themselves up, and their supplies cut off, they gradually came in and were placed into

compounds. Most of them, I think, were as pleased to see the end of hostilities as we were.

The biggest job for Officers & NCOs now was to keep the troops occupied as. Everyone

wanted to know who would go home first, and how it would be decided. We engaged in

various sports when time permitted; Beach Volleyball, Football of all codes, and some of us

did some sailing in an old dinghy which we converted into a sailing boat. Quite a few of the

lads volunteered for the Occupation Force to go to Japan. This force was to form on Labuan.

Eventually the order came out that the ADS unit was to be broken up. Long service men were

to go south for discharge, guards with short service time were to be distributed among RAAF

units which were staying on. When this had been organised there were only four officers and

two sergeants left and as we were all long service men with maximum points for discharge it

was arranged that we would fly south. We flew one day in a Catalina Flying Boat to Darwin

where Flight Lieutenant Dawson had me drive him all round Darwin as I had been there in

1942-43. This I was pleased to do as I was interested in the changes since I was last there and

more important, I was able to catch up with my young brother who was in the Naval Hospital

at that time. I was glad to find he was being discharged that day and it was great to see him as

we had not seen each other for over two years. The next day we all flew to Laverton in a

Liberator, landing at 1700 hrs. as cold as charity in our "jungle greens" .

Smoky Dawson and I parted, I with strict instructions to keep in touch, with at least a card at

Christmas so that each knew we were still on deck. This we did, interspersed with visits to

see each other until he died in 1985. Frank Dawson was a first class leader of men, who never

asked anyone to do anything that he couldn't or wouldn't do himself and as a result received

one hundred percent loyalty from every one who served with him. Men did not serve under

Smoky Dawson, they served with him and I am proud to have been one of them.


NEW COIN HONOURS LOST SOLDIERS OF FROMELLES

The Assistant Treasurer, Senator Nick Sherry, and the Minister for Veterans‘ Affairs, Alan

Griffin, have announced the Royal Australian Mint will issue a collectible 20 cent coin

commemorating Australia‘s Lost Soldiers of Fromelles.

―This coin is a continuation of the Mint‘s Australia Remembers series, exploring our nation‘s

war experiences and military history behind and beyond the battlefields,‖ the Assistant

Treasurer said.

―The coin design is based on the Cobbers statue which stands in the Australian Memorial

Park at Fromelles.‖

―The design features a circle enclosing an artist‘s impression of the Cobbers statue and, to the

right, the inscription ‗20‘.‖

―Outside of the circle are the inscriptions ‗Australia Remembers‘ and ‗Lost Soldiers of

Fromelles‘,‖ the Assistant Treasurer said.

The Cobbers statue by Melbourne sculptor Peter Corlett was unveiled at the former

battlefield in France in 1998 and a replica is installed at the Shrine of Remembrance in

Melbourne.

―The battle of Fromelles on 19 July 1916 was the bloodiest day in Australian military history,

with more than 1300 Australians soldiers killed and over 4000 wounded,‖ the Minister for

Veterans‘ Affairs, Alan Griffin, said.

―The fallen of Fromelles have no known grave and a joint Australian/British Identification

Board has now begun examining evidence to identify the remains of 250 soldiers recovered

from the mass grave.‖

―The Board is trying to match the remains of the World War One diggers with DNA samples

collected from descendants,‖ Mr Griffin said.

The Royal Australian Mint‘s 2010 Australia Remembers project was completed with the

association of the Australian Fromelles Project Group and the Office of Australian War

Graves.

The first coin in the Australia Remembers series honoured Australian Service Nurses.

The Fromelles collectible coin was made available on 1 April 2010.

LIFE’S A GAMBLE ISN’T IT?

Recently a 42 Commando Royal Marine Recce Troop captured a Taliban leader in

Afghanistan and took him to a warehouse where they gave him a dice.

The Sergeant said, ''Roll the dice and if you get a 1 2 3 4 or 5, your head comes off''.

The Taliban leader said ''What if I throw a 6?''

The Sgt said "you get to throw again".


OUR HERITAGE IN VERSE

This is the tenth in a series of fifteen poems written by a former ADG, to help his family

understand the theatre called Vietnam. The Blue Beret will be publishing one poem from the

series in each issue. The author has requested to remain anonymous.

SILENT HELP

Red Cross ladies of all ages

Strived and did achieve

Comfort, compassion and a helping hand

Treated us like our Mums

While we toured this foreign land

Army Nurses staunch and stern

Lent a healing hand

Dispense medicine, humour and advice

Helped us through painful sorrow

Made us thankful for tomorrow

Chaplain‘s life is full of strife

Manage people; loved ones at home

Bless all soldiers, says a prayer

Please make this a cherished land

War to end; love abound

Orphanages are all around

It is all part of this troubled land

Sister of Order, foster a home

A place of peace and happiness

Children flourish; adulthood grow

Salvation Army officers

Showed their grit

Cup of tea, coffee or a biscuit

A kind word, a gentle hand

Made our men able to serve our land

By A120919


RECOGNISING A STROKE

Thank God for the 3 steps to recognising a stroke. Read and Learn!

Sometimes the symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of

awareness sometimes spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when

people nearby fail to recognise the symptoms.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognise a stroke by asking the victim three simple

questions, easily remembered by the letters S-T-R.:

“S”: Ask the individual to SMILE

―T”: Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (I.e. It is sunny out

today.)

“R”: Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call triple 0 immediately and

describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

NOTE: Another sign of a stroke is this: Ask the person to stick out his tongue. If the

tongue is 'crooked', or if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a

stroke.

PROUD TO BE A QUEENSLANDER After having dug to a depth of 3 metres last year, Melbourne scientists found traces of copper

wire dating back 100 years and came to the conclusion that their ancestors already had a

telephone network more than 100 years ago.

Not to be outdone by the Victorians, in the weeks that followed, a Sydney archaeologist dug

to a depth of 7 metres and shortly after, a story published in the Sydney Morning Herald read:

"New South Wales archaeologists, finding traces of 130-year-old copper wire, have

concluded that their ancestors already had an advanced high-tech communications

network 30 years earlier than the Victorians".

One week later, the Courier Mail in Brisbane, Queensland , reported the following:

"After digging as deep as 10 metres in a paddock near Beenleigh, John Brown, a self-taught

archaeologist, reported that he found absolutely bugger all. John has therefore concluded

that 130 years ago, Queensland had already gone wireless."

Just makes you proud to be a Queenslander!


DVA CARDS TO BE REISSUED

All Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) Repatriation Health Cards (DVA cards) are due

to expire during 2010.

From May 2010 DVA will begin reissuing new cards to all eligible veterans, war

widows/widowers and dependants. As part of this reissue, improvements are being made to

DVA cards that will increase veteran access to services and provider satisfaction as well as

the security of the cards.

Specialised descriptions on DVA Gold Cards will remain unchanged These descriptions

include (but are not limited to) Totally and Permanently Incapacitated; War

Widow/Widower; and POW. A new magnetic stripe on every card will contain the full name,

file number, card type and expiry date (which is also shown on the front of the card). The

magnetic stripe will allow providers to swipe DVA cards as they currently do for Medicare

cards and private health care cards. No sensitive information will be contained in the

magnetic stripe.

For the first time, eligible veterans, war widows/widowers and dependants who live overseas

will receive a DVA card This means they won't have to obtain a 'letter of authority' from

DVA when they receive health care in Australia. Entitlement to treatment overseas is limited

to those veterans who have an accepted disability (or disabilities) for which DVA funds treat-

ment. The process for receiving treatment while overseas will not change.

All DVA cards will have micro printing and a DVA registered hologram, both additional

security features to ensure the cards can't be reproduced illegally. None of these card changes

will reduce eligibility for current DVA card holders.

The reissue of DVA cards is expected to be finalised by the end of July 2010. If you currently

have a DVA card and do not receive a new one by the end of July, contact DVA on 133 254

or 1800 555 254 (for regional callers).

CONCESSIONS FOR WAR WIDOWS IN NSW

Pensioners and war widows with concession cards applying for a NSW Photo Card will soon

be exempt from fees. In addition, all war widows (irrespective of age and income) no longer

have to pay for their driver licence or vehicle registration in NSW.

Licence and registration exemptions for all war widows commenced on 17 December 2009

and war widows with an active driver licence or vehicle registration effective on or after that

date are eligible for a pro rata refund. To apply for a refund, war widows need to go to a

motor registry with their current Gold Card.

More than 190,000 Photo Cards have been issued in NSW since they were introduced in

December 2005. Prior to this change, there were no pensioner concessions for Photo Cards.

The changes will be introduced once the required legislative changes are in place. This is

expected to be in early 2010.


SCAMWATCH ALERT: SWITCH OVER TO DIGITAL TELEVISION IS RIPE FOR

SCAMS

SCAMwatch warns Australians switching to digital television to be wary of door-to-door

salespeople offering to sell you conversion equipment and falsely claiming to represent the

government.

Between 2010 and 2013, analogue free-to-air TV signals are being replaced with digital

signals. You will need a television that is capable of receiving digital signals to keep

receiving free-to-air TV after the digital switchover takes place in your area. This means that

you can either buy a digital set-top box for your existing television or upgrade to a television

with an in-built digital tuner.

Scammers selling digital conversion equipment are targeting communities with the promise

of a government reimbursement for any goods purchased. The government has advised that

there are no reimbursements for digital television goods or services bought from any retailers

(including door-to-door salespeople).

For further information about the switch to digital and/or to make a complaint about door-to-

door sales of digital television products, contact the Digital Switchover Taskforce on 1800 20

10 13.

If you think that a door-to-door trader has misled you in some way, you should also contact

the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 302 502.

Protect yourself

Don‘t let door-to-door salespeople claiming to be government employees and selling

digital television products into your home!

If you are unsure about any digital television offers, check with authorities (Digital

Switchover Taskforce, the ACCC or your local fair trading office).

Always get independent advice if the offer involves significant money, time or

commitment. Speak to family, friends or the authorities to get a second opinion.

Report

Contact the Digital Switchover Taskforce on 1800 20 10 13.

You can also report the matter to the ACCC's Infocentre on 1300 302 502 or visit the report a

scam page on SCAMwatch.

DON’T FORGET THE AGM

Just a reminder: The annual general meeting is on in Townsville this year, 11th

– 13th

June.

Great day planned at RAAF Townsville as well. See you there.

http://www.digitalready.gov.au/



http://www.accc.gov.au/


http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/reportascam

http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/reportascam


BURIAL OF FROMELLES SOLDIERS BEGINS

Ninety-three years after they fell in the Battle of Fromelles, the first Australian and British

soldiers have finally been buried with full military honours at a ceremony in France.

On the first day of burials for the Australian and British soldiers recovered last year from

Fromelles, the Minister for Veterans‘ Affairs, Alan Griffin, and Minister for Defence

Personnel, Materiel and Science, Greg Combet, encouraged the Australian public to pause

and reflect on the sacrifices of those who serve in the Armed Forces.

―These men have not been forgotten and today marks the start of the solemn duty of finally

laying them to rest,‖ Mr Griffin said. ―The discovery of these men, so long after World War

One, provides new generations of Australians with an opportunity to honour their service.‖

The soldiers are being buried in individual graves in the purpose-built Fromelles (Pheasant

Wood) Military Cemetery. Mr Griffin said the new cemetery is the first full cemetery the

Commonwealth War Graves Commission has constructed in more than 50 years.

The burials occurred throughout February and early march and were conducted by members

of both the British and Australian Armies. A commemorative event to open the cemetery is

scheduled for the 94th

anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles on 19 July 2010.

Mr Combet said the Government was hopeful that anthropological, archaeological, historical

and DNA information will lead to the identification of some of the men. ―While identification

of the remains is an extremely complex process I remain hopeful that we will be able to

identify a number of those that we have found,‖ Mr Combet said.

The battle on 19 July 1916 was the bloodiest 24 hours in Australian history with 5,533

Australian soldiers killed, wounded or missing.

Can you read the bottom line?


RED TAPE CUT FOR VETERANS AND ADF PERSONNEL

The red tape facing Australia‘s most disabled ex-serving personnel accessing income support

has been cut in new changes recently announced by the Minister for Veterans‘ Affairs, Alan

Griffin.

From March 2010, veteran pensioners assessed as Totally and Permanently Incapacitated

(TPI) are exempt from Centrelink medical reviews to access a Disability Support Pension.

―Since coming to Government we have sought to reduce the barriers facing veterans and

injured ex-serving personnel seeking compensation and income support,‖ the Minister said.

―We established an Interdepartmental Working Group to simplify the bureaucratic maze

facing veterans and ex-serving personnel, making it easier for them to access their

entitlements and streamlining arrangements across agencies.

This initiative assists around 1100 veterans on a Centrelink Disability Support Pension and

has the potential to benefit many more into the future. Currently TPI pensioners undergo

repeated Job Capacity Assessments to access and retain their Disability Support Pension.

―TPI pensioners have already been through a rigorous assessment process to access their

DVA benefits so making them go through a similar process to access Centrelink benefits is

unreasonable.‖

This step builds on a range of recent initiatives, including expanding acceptance of the ADF

Identification Card as Proof of Identity by more government agencies and compiling the ADF

Transition Handbook, which lists all interdepartmental benefits and support services available

to separating ADF members. DVA and Centrelink are also sharing data to help reduce the

risk of overpayments for the more than 17,500 pensioners on both DVA and Centrelink

payments.

―I am pleased with our progress to date but more will be done in our efforts to support our

veterans and defence personnel,‖ Mr Griffin said.

LOOKING FOR SOMEWHERE TO STAY ON ANZAC DAY IN BRISBANE?

The Quest River Park Central (four and a half star apartments) is located at 120 Mary Street,

Brisbane, just 4½ blocks from the start of the ANZAC Day march.

The Quest has really embraced the spirit of ANZAC and is offering a special Defence Rate

over this period which represents a $40.00 per night saving. A 2 bedroom apartment that

sleeps four people (2 x queen beds or 1 x queen and 2 x singles) is going for $215/n and is

normally $255 per night. This represents a really good saving especially if a few blokes teem

up and share costs - for three sharing it would be $72 each per night. Enquiries can be

directed to Michelle at the Quest on: Ph 07 3838 1000 or fax 07 3838 1099.


NOT A HERO

The ANZAC Day march was over - the old Digger had done his best

His body ached from marching - It was time to sit and rest.

He made his way to a park bench and sat with lowered head.

A young boy passing saw him - approached and politely said:

"Please sir do you mind if I ask you what the medals you wear are for?

Did you get them for being a hero, when fighting in a war?"

Startled, the old Digger moved over and beckoned the boy to sit.

Eagerly the lad accepted - he had not expected this!

"First of all I was not a hero, said the old Digger in solemn tone

"But I served with many heroes, the ones that never came home.

So when you talk of heroes, its important to understand,

The greatest of all heroes gave their lives defending this land.

―The medals are worn in their honour, as a symbol of respect.

All diggers wear them on ANZAC Day - it shows they don't forget.

The old digger then climbed to his feet and asked the boy to stand.

Carefully he removed the medals and placed them in his hand.

He told him he could keep them - to treasure throughout his life

A legacy of a kind -left behind - paid for in sacrifice.

Overwhelmed the young boy was speechless - he couldn't find words to say.

It was there the old Digger left him - going quietly on his way.

In the distance the young boy glimpsed him - saw him turn and wave goodbye.

Saddened he sat alone on the bench - tears welled in his eyes.

He never again saw him ever - but still remembers with pride,

When the old Digger told him of Heroes and a young boy sat and cried.

Clyde Hamilton

AUSTRALIAN WOUNDED BY INSURGENT GUNFIRE

An Australian soldier was wounded when his patrol was engaged by insurgent fire in the

Mirabad Valley region of Oruzgan Province on 31 March 2010. The patrol was conducting

dismounted security operations at the time of the attack.

Commander of Australian Forces in the Middle East, Major General John Cantwell, said the

soldier was wounded in the initial exchange of gunfire. ―Insurgents fired at the patrol as they

moved through the complex terrain,‖ Major General Cantwell said. ―The patrol quickly

responded with suppressive fire so their wounded comrade could be moved to safety.‖

The soldiers applied first aid to their wounded colleague and called for an aerial medical

evacuation. During this period, the insurgents relocated and re-engaged the patrol with small

arms fire. ―The patrol quickly identified the new firing position and again suppressed the

insurgent fire. The accuracy of the patrol‘s fire forced the insurgents to retreat and they were

seen moving away from the fighting,‖ Major General Cantwell said.

The wounded Australian has received emergency care in Tarin Kowt and is currently listed as

in a satisfactory, stable condition.


INCOMING

FIRST WORLD TRAVEL REPORT FROM KEVIN THOMPSON

This arrived as an email from Kevin Thompson just before Christmas.

We left Australia after much trouble getting our Visa for Italy.

We left on the 26th of November for the USA and spent about 1 week just looking around

and in Salt Lake it snowed. The first time I had walked in Snow. It was a good experience.

Maria, although brought up in Canberra,, wished she was home. On the 7th of December we

left for Rome and onto Catania in Sicily. We only spent 1 week again there, but will be back

there quite often.

We are at present in a city in the south part of Italy called Cosenza. It is a beautiful place,

very busy, large population and lots of sight-seeing.

It is a mountain area so as we will be there for Christmas it might just snow again, just for me

Hah!

It has been quite cold the last few days. I went to one of the beach resorts the other day just

with some friends but did not stay too long. The place is full of tourists. Its called Paola. I

have photos to send you but we are having trouble with our computer attaching photos and

sending them.

We should be here for some time so I should be able to do some thing about that. It is quite

an experience driving over here beside them, driving on the other side of the road and the

driving wheel on the other side of the car - they have no road rules - well if they do, they

don‘t take any notice of them.

The roads are quite narrow just like you see on TV, with people hanging clothes across from

one house to the other. They park their cars wherever they want, two abreast and sometimes

three abreast. If they can‘t do that they will park on the small footpath.

Well like I say, ―when in Rome do what the Romans do‖, so I park the same way and am

learning to drive like them.

The people are very friendly and with my very little Italian I get by. I am sure glad I have

Maria with me as she knows a lot more. I don‘t think many members know my wife although

some might as they visited her when I got shot down those two times in Vietnam. She was

bought up speaking the ltaliano.

I better go, she has just come home. Will Email you again after Christmas Have a good one.

Kevin


TAX DOLLARS FOR THE TALIBAN – BUT NOT FOR EX-DIGGERS

Editor’s Note: The Airfield Defence Association Australia Inc. is by virtue of its Constitution and Rules a non-political

and non-sectarian Association and this journal rarely, if ever, publishes politically motivated articles. However some

things have to be said in the interests of our members. Maybe one day someone on one side or the other down in

Canberra will take notice.

The Rudd Government has announced that Australia will donate $25m to an Afghanistan

Government trust fund to help integrate former Taliban fighters into Afghan society.

The same Government steadfastly refuses to ensure that former Australian Defence Force

men and women have a retirement scheme that maintains their superannuation pension‘s

buying power.

Ex-diggers are tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), abandoned over a decade ago for

other Commonwealth pensions because it does not protect pension purchasing power.

The Taliban dollars would fund the first few years of decent indexation for military

superannuation pensioners, using the exact same indexation method that Mr Rudd‘s

government rightly uses for age pensions.

Meanwhile, independent observers say that the Taliban dollars will reward bad behaviour by

only paying those who fought against Australian diggers, ignoring Afghans who helped us.

―Defence Force people feel more than slighted when the Government says it can afford to

donate to a fund to help those who fought against Australians but cannot afford to look after

its own ex-service men and women,‖ Defence Force Welfare Association President David

Jamison said.

―DFWA welcomes initiatives to promote peace in Afghanistan,‖ Mr Jamison added, ―But we

do not accept that the Government can cry poor when dealing with the Nation‘s ex-service

men and their families while lavishing tax dollars on the nation‘s enemies.‖

―And what happens when the Rudd Government‘s Taliban dollars are gone? Will the

repatriated Taliban fighters go back to killing Australians?‖

DFWA notes that Foreign Minister Smith can give no assurances as to how the Taliban

dollars will be spent, other than to say the funds will be under the oversight of the

‗international community‘. It seems that the Rudd Government is happy to trust other

governments, some of which are breathtakingly corrupt, while ignoring its own ex-service

constituents.

―It is way past time for the Government to take action to help give ex-service men and

women a decent retirement,‖ said Mr Jamison.

―How can the Government find dollars to reward the Taliban but refuse the dollars needed to

protect the purchasing power of military superannuation pensions?‖


IN THE INTEREST OF THE PUBLIC: VETERANS AFFAIRS David Johnston, Shadow Minister for Defence

This article contains representations and deliberations that represent opinions made on the basis of information available in the public domain and anyone wishing to apply any information presented herein for their own purposes should not rely on what has been presented but should carry out their own due diligence to establish the validity of the

argument they wish to use to support their application

HOW DO YOU HOLD UP YOUR RIGHTS IF YOU HAVE NO ARMS? HOW DO YOU STAND UP FOR YOUR RIGHTS WHEN YOU HAVE NO LEGS?

HOW DO THE BLIND READ THEIR RIGHTS?

Today I would like to address an important issue for the coalition, the opposition. It is

particularly important for me and my opposition colleagues engaged in defence portfolios. I

pause to commend the member for Greenway for the outstanding work in the engagement of

veterans that she has undertaken whilst shadow minister for veterans affairs. Louise Markus,

Bob Baldwin, Stuart Robert and I are determined and committed to the cause of equity for

veterans and the ex-service community generally.

Australian veterans have been the subject of a very cruel deception by the Rudd government

and by the current Minister for Veterans‘ Affairs. Former members of the Australian

Defence Force are of course icons within our communities and have given great service to

our country - loyal service and, I might say, service which was acknowledged and very well

expressed by our current Prime Minister in the Australian Labor Party‘s election 2007 policy

document, when he said, at page 3:

“There is perhaps no greater duty that we as a nation and as a parliament have than to

honour, remember and express our gratitude to those Australians who have served in the

defence of our nation ...”

Those are very fine words. I now understand, as do many veterans, that when it comes to the

Prime Minister and the Minister for Veterans‘ Affairs it is foolish to judge them and rely upon

them based upon what they have said. They must, however, be judged by what they do.

Further within the policy document of 2007 it states:

“A Rudd Labor Government will provide a fresh approach to veteran’s affairs, and a

fresh leadership team, which is dedicated to working in partnership with the ex-service

community on the issues that concern them. Labor will work hard to achieve six goals for

veterans ...”

And the six goals were enumerated. The first was:

To restore the value of compensation and prevent further erosion due to unfair

indexation

That was on page 3. This statement is a categorical rolled-gold promise to veterans that Labor

would make positive changes to the value of their compensation and protect it from inflation

and diminution from inadequate indexation.

The promises continue throughout the document. On page 5 it states:

A key concern within the veteran community is the impact of rising costs of

living, and the erosion of their entitlements over time due to unfair indexation


arrangements under the Howard Government.

On page 5, it further states:

To help combat this, Labor committed to index all disability pensions and the

domestic component of the War Widow’s Pension to movements in the Consumer

Price Index (CPI) or Male Total Average Weekly Earnings (MTAWE), whichever

is the greater.

Further to this, in two press releases on 6 and 7 May 2007 the then Rudd opposition left no

doubt as to their intention and promises. I have the document containing the joint statement of

Kevin Rudd MP, federal Labor leader, and Alan Griffin MP, shadow minister for veterans‘

affairs. In that document they say:

“A Rudd Labor government will restore the value of the Special Rate Disability Pension

(TPI and TTI), Intermediate Rate and the Extreme Disablement Adjustment Pensions by

indexing the whole of these pensions to movements in Male Total Average Weekly

Earnings (MTAWE) or the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is greater.”

In a separate press release on 7 May Alan Griffin said:

“A Federal Labor government will restore the value of the Special Rate Disability

Pension (TPI and TTI), Intermediate Rate and the Extreme Disability Adjustment

Pensions by indexing the whole of these pensions to movements in Male Total Average

Weekly Earnings (MTAWE) or the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is the greater.”

So there is the encouragement.

When in opposition, the now minister criticised the Howard government for failing to release

the military superannuation review. In a press release on 6 September he attacked Minister

Billson. He said:

“It is understood that Minister Billson has had the report since July 2007. He has since

ignored calls from the ex-service community and Labor to release the report for public

consideration. This review will provide vital information for former and current defence

personnel regarding the operation of the military superannuation system and how it can

be improved. They are entitled to know what the review says and what the government

will do about it. Instead, the government is sitting on the report.”

He went on to say:

“There are a number of outstanding issues relating to military superannuation, including, the

indexation method for defence superannuation pensions ...”

And so it went on.

The point about this is that these various complaints—he made another one on 8 October—

similarly complain of the delay. The delay was in fact some 10 months, which included an

election and caretaker period. Minister Griffin commissioned the Matthews review of

pension indexation arrangements in Australia. The minister, the same one who had attacked

the Howard government for delay, sat on this report for some eight months without

releasing it. The point about this is that, when in opposition, it is all very well to say these

things to people - people on fixed incomes and people with disabilities, as veterans—and


tell them you are going to do something about it when you are elected. You sucker them for

their vote. It is absolutely no surprise that the Rudd government has reneged on these

promises and postures. This has been one of the most cruel and callous betrayals of veterans

in the history of public affairs in this country.

Mr Tanner, in fact, delivered the news. In his press release he said:

“The Rudd Government is satisfied, after considering Mr Matthews’ report, the purpose of

indexation of civilian and military superannuation pensions should continue to maintain the

purchasing power of the pension.”

He continued:

“... we are satisfied that the CPI is the most suitable index to protect Australian Government

superannuation pensions against inflationary price increases available at this time.

There is the slap in the face. Having promised them the sun and the moon, Mr. Tanner says,

‗Sorry boys, we are not giving you a cracker.‘

My allegation is of a serious breach of faith and trust by the Prime Minister and the Minister

for Veterans‘ Affairs, and this is supported by four members of the government. Indeed, they

wrote to Mr Tanner disclosing their disappointment. I propose to table this document and the

response from Mr Tanner. The members of the government were Mike Kelly, the member

for Eden-Monaro, Bob McMullan, the member for Fraser, Kate Lundy, a senator for the

ACT, and Annette Ellis, the member for Canberra. In this document these four members,

having seen the Matthews report and the response to it, say to Mr Tanner that they were

shocked—as shocked as veterans are, I would say, because that is what jumps out from the

pages of this document. The document states:

“Understandably, there is a huge disappointment in both the findings and the

government response announced on the same day. It had been widely expected that the

recommendations would have supported a change to the method of indexation of these

pensions to that of which is high, MTAWE or CPI, consistent with the pension, following

the earlier Senate and other inquiries.”

It further states:

“Significantly, many people genuinely believe that prior to the 2007 election the ALP had

committed to determining a fairer method of indexation, and a review would provide the

direction. So the immediate acceptance of the recommendation of no change in government

response is being seen as a reversal of the pre-election position espoused by the ALP in the

campaign material.”

These are not my words. These are the words of two parliamentary secretaries, a senator and

the member for Canberra getting stuck into their minister for suckering the veterans

community into believing that they were honest and straight up with them when they made

these promises. The document continues on from there.

Their deceiving veterans does not end there. On 12 September 2008 Treasurer Swan said on

ABC radio in Brisbane that the DVA disability pension would be included in the Harmer

review. Again, I say that it is no surprise that the disability pensions were not ultimately

included in that review. Bluntly, where do these people get off making reckless statements to

people on fixed incomes and disability pensions only to contemptuously fail to deliver?


What has the minister and the Rudd government actually done for veterans and their families?

They have provided a massive amount of paper shuffling for lawyers, mates and academics.

The government has commissioned, firstly, a review of advocacy services; secondly, a

review of military compensation; thirdly, a review of Gulf War syndrome; fourthly, a review

of the Clarke review - that is a nice one: a review of a review! Fifthly, the government has

commissioned a review of mental health care in the ADF and beyond - the Dunk report;

sixthly, an inquiry into the F111 deseal/reseal issue; seventhly, the Timor-Leste family

study; and, lastly, the Prime Ministerial Advisory Council on ex-service matters with

inquiries held in each capital city. So there has been this magnificent, sensational series of

laser and light shows designed to make the Rudd government look interested in veterans

affairs. The truth is completely and utterly the opposite. Veterans and their families have

been fobbed off, deceived, misled and suckered for their vote.

This is the government which has taken Australia from a position of having $20 billion in the

bank to a deficit of $48 billion this year. Almost $70,000 million has been expended in a

little over two years on a $900 payment to all and sundry. School halls have been provided to

schools that do not need them. Pink batts are available to every uninsulated house—and we

know how well that is running. There are laptop computers and trips to Bali and

Copenhagen for all and sundry, and bureaucrats and advisers - and not a cracker for veterans.

We still have the $43 billion Australian Broadband Network to come, with no business plan.

Mr Tanner and Mr Rudd and Mr Griffin say that living up to the promises they gave will be

too expensive. They are happy to spend everybody else‘s money on everything else, including

themselves. This is nothing more or less than a glib con and a betrayal of the legitimate

expectations, as fuelled by the Prime Minister, of all veterans. This callous treatment of

veterans fits squarely with a number of misrepresentations made before the 2007 election:

‗I‘m a fiscal conservative,‘ ‗I‘m an economic conservative,‘ and ‗We will take the Japanese

whalers to the International Court of Justice.‘ These were of the same ilk - representations with

not a shred of intent to live up to them.

The message that I have for veterans today is that, whilst you may not have been entirely

happy with the Howard government, you were not openly and cruelly deceived. You were not

treated as some electoral doormat, as some gullible mob of innocent believers and victims, to

be abused and suckered. We did not do that, and we will not do that.

Given the deficit and the level of borrowings of this government, it must be said that meeting

the equitable resolutions that veterans seek in the reform of their entitlements indexes is now

further than ever from becoming a reality. It has disappeared over the hill in the deficit style

of reckless spending of this completely profligate Rudd government. The Rudd government

has in fact spent all of the money—and not a cracker for veterans. My commitment and that

of my colleagues is to relentlessly argue the case for these amendments if elected to

government, when we would have some control over the national accounts, which I must say

are now totally out of control.

Comments from Veterans:

I recall many of my fellow Vietnam Veterans who had previously sworn that they would

never vote Labor as a result of the Trades Unions actions to delay our mail and refusing to

load the Jeparit and other vessels bringing us our supplies etc.

They have lied to us repeatedly and at the same time ruined our great nations’ economy, for

which we and future generations will continue to pay for.


THE UNIQUE NATURE OF MILITARY SERVICE

In recent years there has been a shift in assumptions and attitudes underpinning the way

military service is viewed.

Those in government who shape policy are increasingly attracted to the idea that the soldier

(sailor or airman) is adequately provided for by salary and allowances that compensate for his

service both while it is being given and after it has ceased. Military service can be mistakenly

seen as comparable to other forms of service that involve risk and danger, and therefore no

longer viewed as unique.

The unique nature of military service is rooted in the nature of society itself. Most democratic

societies recognize the central place of the individual as the primary unit of sovereignty.

Sovereign individuals are vested with inalienable human rights, recognized in the Universal

Declaration of Human Rights as, among others, life, liberty and the security of the person

(Article 3).

Australia is a signatory of the Declaration, adopted by the General Assembly of the UN in

1948. Implicit in Article 3, there is also a right to defence of self and of others from attack,

and this right inevitably gives rise to an obligation to do so if it is the State which is under

threat or attack.

The inter-relationship of rights and responsibilities borne both by the State and the individual,

is complex, and based on the principle of the social contract. The State may not alienate the

rights of the individual without his assent. The individual, while preserving the integrity of

his or her rights, may assent to the State‘s demand for surrender of some of them for the

common good, but in all circumstances save one, the State is obliged to uphold and defend

the individual‘s rights.

In volunteering for military service, the individual accepts the surrender of his basic rights

under Article 3 and places his life, liberty and security of person in the hands of the State.

This surrender is not unconditional, though in extremis, it is absolute. The State, for its part,

accepts the obligation to preserve, as far as is consistent with the achievement of the military

mission, the physical and spiritual wellbeing of such individuals who place themselves at its

disposal.

This obligation extends beyond the period of service itself, to the physical and psychological

consequences of that service.

Even when the State demands surrender of these rights by imposing a compulsion for service,

the terms of the social contract imply that such compulsion is done only within the

democratic framework and is therefore with the assent of the individual, who at all times is

party to it.

In no other calling, occupation or profession has the State the power to accept or demand the

surrender of these rights. Military service in this fundamental respect is unique, and the

obligation this places on the State is inescapable, as it is enduring.

A service person’s calling is unique.

DEFENCE FORCE WELFARE ASSOCIATION www.dfwa.org.au


COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD

Welcome: To Norm McKenzie and Peter Cox, our latest Association members

since the last issue.

Sick Parade: Since the last issue, we‘ve had reports that Ray Appleford, Criss

Cross, Wal (Judy) Garland and Glen Hombsch continue to have health

problems. Mooka Cowley and Fred Brown remain on the sick list. Col Purdon

and Ian List have recently had surgery but are on the way to recovery or have

since recovered. For those who are still a bit wobbly, we send our best wishes that

you get better soon. If we‘ve missed anyone out, please let us know.

Where the Heck is…? Still haven‘t heard from anyone about the whereabouts of Bob Goad If you can

throw some light on his present situation we‘d appreciate it.

Safe trip to Bob and Carmel Kinnane, who have tripped off to the good ole

USA for a well earned break.

Happy Birthday

To Ron Stuart, staunch Association member who‘s 70th

Birthday was on 17th

April. Doesn‘t seem so old when you‘re getting closer to it. Good on ya Ron.

Congratulations to Sarida McLeod, grand daughter of Ken and Carolyn.

Spies tell us that Sarida‘s team came 6th

in the recent World Debating

Championships. Fantastic effort Sarida and the team!

Congratulations also to Bob Cooper who recently retired from the Air Force after

about a hundred years service. Bob has always been a strong supporter of the

Association and we wish him well in whatever life holds for him without the blue

uniform.

Paid your subs for this year yet?


AIRFIELD DEFENCE ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA INC

ORDER FORM

PLEASE FORWARD THE ABOVE GOODS TO:

Name:

Postal Address

Postcode:

I confirm that I am a financial member of the Airfield Defence Association Australia Inc.

Member’s Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ___________________

To: The Secretary,

Airfield Defence Association Australia Inc.

5 Jeffrey Street

CAPALABA QLD 4157

PLEASE SUPPLY ME WITH THE FOLLOWING GOODS:

QTY DESCRIPTION UNIT

PRICE TOTAL COST

Early 1ATF/ADG bronze figurine-1966 (See below re postage4) $179.00

RAR/ADG Vietnam bronze figurine-1969 (See below re postage4) $179.00

9 Sqn Crewman/Gunner bronze figurine (See below re postage4) $179.00

Association Ground Combat Insignia1 $10.00

Cloth Pocket Badge (Blazer) $10.00

Key Ring Badge $10.00

Lapel Badge $10.00

Polo Shirt (embroidered) (S / M / L / XL / XXL / XXXL) $28.00

Chambray Shirt (M /L /XL / 2XL / 3XL) LONG SL SHORT SL 2 $38.00

Association Tie $30.00

Beret: WE REGRET TO ADVISE THAT BERETS ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Association Cap 14.00

Wall Pennant $5.00

Association Wall Plaque 32.00

Association Windscreen Sticker3 2.00

Association Insignia Ring (Gold or Silver) Call for Price

PLEASE NOTE: FULL PAYMENT IS REQUIRED WITH YOUR ORDER.

Sub Total:

Plus Postage/Shipping: $4.003,4

Thank you for your Support TOTAL ENCLOSED: $ NOTES: 1. YOU MUST DECLARE YOUR ELIGIBILITY TO BE ENTITLED TO THIS ITEM.

2. CHAMBRAYS AVAILABLE IN LONG AND SHORT SLEEVE - PLEASE SPECIFY.

3. IF ONLY ORDERING WINDSCREEN STICKERS, JUST SEND A 55c STAMPED ADDRESSED ENVELOPE WITH YOUR ORDER FORM – NO OTHER SHIPPING COSTS APPLY

4. DUE TO THEIR WEIGHT, POSTAGE/SHIPPING COST FOR FIGURINES IS $10.00 PER ITEM


WALL PENNANT : $5.00

LAPEL BADGE

$10.00

KEY RING

BADGE $10.00

WALL PLAQUE: $35.00

ASSOCIATION INSIGNIA RINGS

(Gold or Silver).

CALL FOR PRICE AND DETAILS

WINDSCREEN

STICKERS: $2.00

GROUND COMBAT INSIGNIA

(BRONZE)

LAPEL BADGE $10.00


CHAMBRAY SHIRT: $38.00

ASSOCIATION CAP $14.00

WHITE POLO SHIRT $28.00

ASSOCIATION TIE $30.00


1ATF - INFANTRYMAN EARLY VIETNAM CONFLICT: Typical of 1st Australian Task Force infantryman and RAAF Airfield Defence Guards Circa 1966. This figurine wears rain-soaked early pattern ‘greens’ and US made M56 basic webbing supplemented by Pattern 44 basic pouches. His L1A1 SLR Rifle features early fore-wood and wooden carry handle, and was standard issue to riflemen. 1ATF/RAR members and RAAF ADGs wore variations on this typical theme during the 1965-67 period.

$179.00 plus Postage.

RAR - INFANTRYMAN LATE VIETNAM CONFLICT 1969-70:

This figurine portrays a RAR or ANZAC Battalion

infantryman or RAAF ADG, late Vietnam Conflict

period, on patrol wearing late issue ‘pixie’ style greens

and Australian-made M56 equipment. His customized

load includes an ARVN pack, collapsible water bladder,

extra water bottles and E-tool. He is armed with a

Lithgow SAF L1A1 rifle and carries it pointed to the

ground to reduce the risk of being silhouetted. His face

shows the strain and intensity of patrol work. Pack art

features imagery from AWM Archives.

$179.00 plus postage.

RAAF - HELICOPTER CREWMAN/GUNNER

LATE VIETNAM CONFLICT:

This cold cast bronze figurine wears gear representative of a helicopter crewman/gunner, late Vietnam Conflict. He wears the lightweight one-piece flight suit, nomex gloves, ‘chicken plate’ ballistic armour, a mesh survival vest and AFH-1 flight helmet. His sidearm is the Browning 9mm automatic commonly carried by RAAF aircrew.

$179.00 plus postage.

These cold cast bronze figurines are approximately 315mm high, weighing about two kilos each. Also available in pre-coloured 315mm polyresin

1ATF and RAR kits with a retail price of $149.00, but the kit range does not include a crewman/gunner figure so far.

PLEASE NOTE: ALL MERCHANDISE ITEMS ON THESE PAGES ARE AVAILABLE TO ASSOCIATION MEMBERS ONLY.

POSTAGE AND HANDLING CHARGES APPLY IN ADDITION TO THE COST OF EACH ORDER (SEE ORDER FORM FOR DETAILS



APPLICATION FOR ORDINARY*/ASSOCIATE* MEMBERSHIP

COMMITTEE IN CONFIDENCE

Family Name: Given Names: Nickname:

Honours, Awards, Post-Nominals (If any):

Married: Single: Partner‘s Given Name: No. of Children:

Home Address:

Postcode:

Postal Address (If different to above):

Postcode:

Home Phone: ( ) Business Phone: ( ) Fax: ( )

Mobile Phone: E-Mail Address:

Civil Occupation:

Leisure Interests:

RAAF Category/Mustering: ADI DI ADG GRDEFO OTHER

If you ticked “Other”, Please give brief

details:

ADI/DI/ADG/GRDEFO Course Number(s)

Period of Service: From: To:

I agree / do not agree* to the Airfield Defence Association Australia Inc providing my address and / or telephone

number to other Association members on request.

I enclose / have already forwarded* the sum of forty dollars ($40.00), being the joining fee of $20.00 and my

first year‘s annual subscription of $20.00. (Please Note: Receipts will only be forwarded on request).

The Association publishes a Newsletter (The ―Blue Beret‖) three times each year, in April, August and December. If

your application is successful and you have indicated that you have access to a computer, the newsletter will be sent

to you on CD rather than as a paper copy:

I DO/ DO NOT* HAVE ACCESS TO A COMPUTER.

Signature of Applicant: Date

(NB: The Association’s Financial Year runs from 1 April to 31 March. Fees are due by 31 March each year).

Please forward all Membership payments and correspondence to:

The National Secretary

Airfield Defence Association Australia Inc

5 Jeffrey Street

CAPALABA QLD 4157 (Phone/fax: 07 32457174) * Please delete whichever does not apply



APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP FOR LIFE


Membership No.


Postal Address:

Postcode:




If you ticked “Other”, Please give brief details:

Period of Service: From: To: Overseas Units Served:

Year(s)/Tour(s) of Overseas Duty:


CONDITIONS OF APPLICATION (Please tick below where applicable)

1. APPLICANT HAS SERVED IN A WAR ZONE; OR

2. APPLICANT HAS SERVED A MINIMUM OF 17 YEARS IN THE RAAF; OR

3. APPLICANT HAS BEEN MEDICALLY DISCHARGED AFTER A MINIMUM OF 10 YEARS SERVICE; OR

4. APPLICANT IS RECEIVING A MINIMUM OF “INTERMEDIATE” DISABILITY PENSION; OR

5. AFTER 5 YEARS AS A MEMBER, APPLICANT HAS CONTRIBUTED ABOVE “NORMAL” STANDARDS TO THE WELFARE OF THE ASSOCIATION AND ITS MEMBERS.

PLEASE NOTE: APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE NATIONAL SECRETARY BEFORE THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING EACH YEAR.

ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE APPROVED BY A MAJORITY OF THOSE PRESENT AND VOTING AT AN ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM).

A MAXIMUM OF FIVE APPLICATIONS MAY BE ACCEPTED BY THE AGM IN ANY YEAR.

APPLICANTS WILL BE ADVISED OF THE SUCCESS OR OTHERWISE OF THEIR APPLICATION IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE AGM.

A “ONE OFF” MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT OF $250.00 MUST BE MADE TO THE ASSOCIATION WITHIN ONE MONTH OF NOTIFICATION OF THE APPLICATION BEING GRANTED.

THE COMMITTEE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO VERIFY THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS APPLICATION.

Please forward this completed Application and/or any related correspondence to:

The National Secretary


5 Jeffrey Street

CAPALABA QLD 4157 * Please delete whichever does not apply



APPLICATION FOR HONORARY MEMBERSHIP



Married: Single: Spouse’s Given Name: No. of Children:

Home Address:

Postcode:


Postcode:



Civil Occupation:

Leisure Interests:

Service(s) served in: ARMY NAVY RAAF

Period(s) of Service: From: To:

Name of Sponsor (Sponsor must be an Association Member):

Relationship to Sponsor ( ie Son, Father, Friend etc.):




Please forward all Membership payments and correspondence to: The National Secretary


5 Jeffrey Street

* Delete whichever does not apply CAPALABA QLD 4157



PERSONAL DETAILS UPDATE

To our valued Members:

We are continually updating our mailing lists so that we can forward Newsletters etc to the correct address.

An update form is included in each Newsletter, but so far, not all members have provided us with their details.. If you

are one of those members who has not yet responded to our earlier requests, would you please take a few minutes now

to fill in the details and send them back to us as soon as possible, even if you believe that your details haven’t

changed. We don’t need a new form each year, but we would appreciate one when any of your details change.

Thank you for your help.


Married: Single: Spouse‘s Given Name: No. of Children:

Home Address:

Postcode:


Postcode:



Civil Occupation:

Leisure Interests:


If you ticked “Other”, Please give brief details:

ADI/DI/ADG/GRDEFO Course Number(s)

Period(s) of Service: From: To:



MEMBER’S SIGNATURE: DATE:

Please return this form to: The National Secretary


5 Jeffrey Street

CAPALABA QLD 4157

the blue beret: issue no. 46: april 2010

Documents

great anzac day

anzac day activities

special day of remembrance

national president

western australia

web site

jim gable committee

boundary hotel