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Makan No. 236 OFFICIAL JOURNAL 2/30 Bn. A. I. F. ASSOCIATION Subscription Rate: $1.50 per Year Registered for Posting as Periodical: Category A
Reunions To Come ARE YOU COMING TO THE BATTALION ANNUAL REUNION 2/30 Bn Annual Reunion - Friday, 4th Nov '77.- at Public Service Association Club Pty Ltd, 515 KENT St, Sydney, a few doors SOUTH of Bathurst St. - Meeting at 6 pm - foregather beforehand there if you like or are city workers - Admission Charge $5.50, which please send to Chief Correspondent, using Acceptance Form in last "MAKAN", by 21st October. PLEASE DO NOT, LEAVE IT TO THE LAST MINUTE. While no one would be turned away IF IT IS ON, we have to meet the guarantee number for IT TO BE ON. As a date of setting up this "MAKAN" we have been advised by 22 only that they are to be there. PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF CLUB.
Granville R.S.L.
Club's 13th Annual Ex-P.O.W. Reunion Dinner Advice of this Dinner was included with "Max" McClelland's Acceptance of the 2/30 Bn Reunion with the comment, "should any member of the Battalion be interested." Max is a member of Granville.
Northern Rivers
Branch Ex-Ps.O.W. Association Reunion Dinner at Grafton Guest speaker, Mrs Sylvia McGregor (Sister Muir, 2/13 AGH). Those intending to go please contact Harry Rhodes, 99 Cambridge Street, SOUTH GRAFTON, 2461. Reports on Reunions as held
8 Division Reunion
at Bathurst Proceedings were commenced with checking-in from 10a.m. and meeting those who had arrived. The gathering was not great in number, only about 80 of the Division attended. Wives of some added to the number, who sat down to the commemoration dinner, which was catered for by the Ladies Auxiliary of the Bathurst R.S.L. Sub-Branch. Captain Jack Bennett, 8 Div. AASC, the President of the Organising Committee, on which the 2/30th had John and Pam Haskins and Bruce and Marjorie Pratt, was unable to be present, as he had gone down with a sickness, whilst with his wife in Queensland, away from the cold of Blayney winter. Twelve of the sixteen 2/30 Bn members came up from Sydney; but the long distance runner was Stewart Blow from Berry. The 2/19th Bn had 11 or 12 representatives, the AASC 5 members thus the call to the Reunion and Commemoration was not well supported, although it must be remembered that there were other Reunions in other centres during August and this fact undoubtedly had its effect. The gathering at the 8th Div War Memorial in front of the Civic Centre Offices was preceded by a March of those present from the R.S.L. Club. The solidity of the Division was shown by the march being as one body without dividing into Units. The President of the R.S.L. in Sir Colin Hines, was the main Guest of Honour and delivered the commemoration address. Wreaths were laid at the base of the Memorial in tribute to those who had not returned from the War and those, who have since died. Padre Cliff Ussher offered up prayers and the sounding of the Last Post and Reveille was in the hands of Bugler, Aub Deveson of Bathurst. The Battalion Wreath was laid by John Haskins, and he, escorted by Steve Allardice laid another wreath on behalf of all at the War Memorial Carillon, as the gathering returned to the R.S.L.. Club for afternoon tea and other beverages, before the Sydney folk, who had to be at their jobs on Monday departed. Sir Colin Hines stated that Australians should be proud that members of the 8th Division AIF not only had a fine record in war, but had proved themselves to be fine citizens after the war; that the Division lost 6,564 men from a Unit of 17,182, including those killed in action, missing believed killed, died of wounds and as prisoners of war; that, despite their treatment as prisoners of war, many members became prominent citizens in the post war years; that eight were honoured with knighthoods, many became members of Parliament, others held diplomatic posts overseas or were prominent in legal circles. Sir Colin called on members of the 8th Division to join with him in making a pledge.
Let us recognise the
threats to this Country today. (The most part of this report was taken from the "Western Advocate" issued the following day in Bathurst and sent to your Editor by Eric Arps, who had stayed on in Bathurst, rather than coming home on the Sunday night. Thanks, Eric. Ed) Captain Jack Bennett has told me that the Committee of the 8th Division Memorial ask that you note in your diaries for next year, the 2nd Sunday in August, 13/8/1978, as a date for another gathering of the men of the 8th Division at Bathurst. This year it was recognised that the main support was from the 2/19th, 2/30th and 8 Div AASC., there was one from Victoria and one from Queensland. Already there has been an indication of more support next year, interstate particularly from Queensland and the nurses, so another Reunion is definitely on. The Committee would welcome any suggestions for improvement and ask, that such suggestions be sent to Jack Bennett, or to the Hon. Sec Les Browne. One thing, already being considered, is, that while some of the Division are still comparatively young and are forced to be back at work on Monday morning, after such a Reunion, there are quite some numbers retired needing to take things a little more leisurely. If these folk desire to stay on and see the development round Bathurst/Orange the Committee is ready to look after them, if there is sufficient enthusiasm for this. Central Coast Ex-Ps.O.W. Annual Luncheon - Sun – 14th August, 1977 Vince Leonard tells me that he spent an enjoyable day at this Reunion, where nine of the 2/30 Bn gathered with others of the 8 Div and other forces; Fred Butt, Jim O'Connell, Harry Brennan were names he mentioned but your Scribe asks the others to accept his apologies at not naming them, he did not have his pencil and paper ready. Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area Reunion at Leeton – 3rd Sept. 1977 Don F. Garner (Sgt) says that he "used the trip to this Reunion to kill two birds with one stone - the second bird being a visit to my 92 year old father in Narrandera - met Curly Heckendorf - Keith Mulholland - Jock McKenzie - Terry Byrnes - Ron Penny - Dave Dunleavy (2/15 Drop shorts) - good night was had," Don. Far-North Coast Ex-Ps.O.W. Reunion - Ballina – 13th Aug. 1977 "Hoot" Gibson, one of the latest to quit Sydney for the Bush reports that "the Reunion at the Ballina R.S.L. Club was a credit to the organisers and helpers, and I met up with quite a few of the old 30th blokes.” There was quite a good attendance, particularly of the 30th and I think that next year will be better. It was a pleasure to see the wives and young folk there. Bowls Day with Bankstown R.S.L. Bowling Club - Sunday, 18th Sept. The day was warm in the sun. There was little wind that morning. The green looked as though it had been cut and rolled that morning and, as your Scribe is not a bowler, the fact that the boys were sending them down wide to curve in on the jack by making full use of the bias, made me wonder, but enquiries on this play received the reply that "they were playing with the green". Once again the Battalion team failed to get its name on the shield. Bankstown R.S.L. men were the better on the day, the final score being 84/39 in their favour. Several of our usual bowlers were not able to come for the day as the date had been brought forward from October, when it is usually played; the change being made to suit the needs of the green, which was due to go out after the 8 hr. weekend and to suit Bankstown R.S.L. Club's heavy fixture list at that time. However some new ones responded to the call, that Kevin had made. Don ("Blue") MacIver came over from Blacktown; John F. ("Mal") Moloney from Concord; B.S. ("Sluggo") Jones from Booval (Q); Ray Simmons from Bexley, having come down during the year to live near his married daughter. The Battalion Team was helped by Roy Fussell (2/20 Bn), Jackie Campbell (Middle East Veteran and an Ex-P.O.W. in German hands); and the Senior Vice-Pres. of Andy Hyslop's Club "Everglades", Dar Loschiavo, who had come down from Umina with Andy. The Battalion teams consisted of:
Rink 10 - Roy
Fussell, Jackie Campbell, "Mal" Moloney, Dar Loschiavo. As usual there was a gallery of Battalion supporters, numbering some 17 this year, some bowlers' wives, some non-bowlers with their wives, Bruce Ford was escort for one of his daughters, Jack Black was on his own, George Gough had both his wife, Nan, and his son, Bob with him. "Mal" Moloney was a real surprise but a welcome starter. It seems that he works at Dulux Paints and one of the timekeepers, is a member of the Bankstown R.S.L. Bowling Club and was to play against the Battalion, so he had put it to "Mal" that he should come over. The result was that "Mal" did come, had a good day, and Bruce Ford put it to him that he should join the Association, which he had not done to date, but which he rectified before the afternoon was over. "Sluggo" was prompted to come down when reading the last "MAKAN". He says that he had said, jokingly, to his wife that he ought to go down, and she replied in the same vein, "Well, why not? and you can see Janice" (their daughter, who is living at Randwick at present). A few days later "Sluggo" surprised her by coming home with the Railway Pass and making his arrangements to come, he works in the Railway Switch Yards near to Ipswich but not in the Ipswich Yards, as one of the foremen controlling the splitting up of trains from all points of the compass, so that they go forward to their destinations on other lines, a job, which, he says, varies from nothing to do for about an hour or more, to being flat out because two or three trains come in one after the other. A few phone calls by your Scribe and Bruce Upcroft, with Bruce being responsible for making arrangements with the Combined Services Club in the city and "Sluggo" had a Mini-Reunion on the Friday evening there with some of his old Platoon mates, Bruce, of course, Lloyd Stuart, Bob McLaren; other Don Company chaps Bruce Ford, Andy Noble, Harley Forrester, Charlie Golledge plus from other Companies, Jack Black and "Darby" Young, some of whom he had not seen in the last 32 years. Sick Parade Kevin Ward reports that since last "MAKAN'" admissions to Hospital have been: Alan WARTON (B Company), F.R. Charlie COLLYER (HQ Company), Gerry BAILEY (HQ Company), Reg NAPPER (D Company), Jack FOLKARD (HQ Company), Kel ANDERSON (C Company), Darby YOUNG (HQ Company), Ross HUTTON (A Company). Mrs Jean MACLAY (wife of Jack MACLAY (B Company) admitted to Parramatta District Hospital, transferred to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and then back to Parramatta. Mrs Vi SCHOFIELD (wife of Phil SCHOFIELD) admitted to Sydney Hospital. Mrs Janet JOHNSTON (wife of Noel Johnston) sick but still home. Max ROSS (D Company) also sick at home. All the men-folk have returned to their homes, so that there is no one in Yaralla at the time that I am writing this. However Harry LAW is the same still and Gordon Saifallie is in Stanmore Nursing Home, 66 Cambridge Street, Stanmore, 2048, and would appreciate a card from folk. "Bamboo and Barbed Wire” recorded that admissions to Greenslopes, (Brisbane) have included: Dick NEWMAN St. George Q, (D Company), M.V. GIFFORD (otherwise known as "CHINA" HALL (C Company), V. WALLACE, Brisbane (C Company). Last Post It is reported that T.P.I. Magazine records the death of NX1656 Pte. B.H. LESTER, posted to the Battalion on 16/1/1942 at Fort Rose Estate as a Reinforcement for B Company and transferred out on 17/3/1942 to M.L.F.D.U. Bob Jack Phil Schofield, who had been very closely associated with Bob Jack from the time of his entry into the Battalion until his death, as reported in last "MAKAN" prepared the obituary, which was read by Johnny Parsons, as O.C. 14 Platoon, at the cremation service on 3rd August last, and I am printing it here as additional tribute to Bob. Bob was serving in the 30th Bn CMF and transferred from that Unit to the AIF, joining the 2/30th Battalion at Bathurst, just before the Unit sailed for Malaya. He received his first promotion to the rank of Corporal, within a few days of the Unit's arrival in Malaya. That he was an excellent soldier and a leader of men was demonstrated by the fact that, following the death of his Platoon Commander at Gemas, and the wounding of the Platoon Sergeant a few days later, Bob led the Platoon throughout the remainder of the action, as Platoon Sergeant, with the exception of a few days, when we were in a fixed position at the Causeway and for the last day or two before the Surrender. During Prisoner of War days, he was on one of the very early work parties, called for by the Japanese, which was stationed, firstly at Adam Park and then at Second Avenue. Having acquired a radio from a derelict car, Bob repaired it and for a short time it operated with the use of a battery, which was acquired each night from nearby Japanese transport. When that became an impossibility, Bob converted the radio to operate off the electricity supply. Contact with a friendly Chinese, made one night, outside the confines of the camp, resulted in the necessary parts being obtained. That wireless was operated each night, and the genuine news, from the Far Eastern Transmission of the B.B.C. was passed on to the men on parade next morning. When the party moved to River Valley Road, the wireless was transported in a half-bag of rice; and it continued to operate at that camp. It successfully survived several Japanese searches during its existence and accompanied the party when it returned to Changi, where it was handed over to the Australian Command. Bob served on several other work parties, called for by the Japanese, including tunnelling fox-holes in Johore and on the ill-fated "F" Force on the Burma/Thailand Death Railway. Here again, his leadership was demonstrated by his continued defence of the men in his work party, at the expense of his own safety; which resulted in him receiving several nasty bashings. But, when the tables were turned and a Japanese work party was sent to dig latrines for us, it was Bob Jack, who was detailed to supervise the party, because it was felt that he was one of the very few, who could do so without bitterness and even compassion. He did just that, and scared off any would be taunters of the Japanese, by threatening to have them join the party, if they did not immediately leave the area. Upon his return to Australia, Bob continued his studies in wireless and in electronics and, in due course, became an expert in the new medium, television. With a firm belief in the potential of Brookvale, he acquired a picked site on the Main Road and set about the building of a shop and residence complex. He completed this mammoth task, with very little outside help, then leased one shop and occupied the other himself, with the sale and servicing of electrical appliances, including radiograms and T.V. sets. Meanwhile he and Shirley had married and, with Robyn and Colin growing up, he had their present home built at Beacon Hill into which they moved from the flat above the shop. With the advent of the Discount Houses, who were, then selling appliances cheaper than he could purchase them from the supplier, Bob decided to sell the Brookvale complex and concentrate, for the time being at least, on the servicing of T.V.'s, from the elaborate workshop, which he had erected at his home, But he had always been interested in building and he designed and built, with the minimum of outside help, a large two storied home in the fast-growing Arndale/Belrose area, which he sold, in due course, following completion. With his thirst for knowledge and his desire to possess any necessary qualifications in the field, in which he intended to operate, Bob returned to the Technical College and, in two years completed the 3yr Building Course working meanwhile on a very large home for a friend. He graduated with distinction, became a member of the Master Builders' Association and received his Builder's Licence. However, his work during the course had obviously attracted the attention of the Authorities and Bob was invited to become a part-time teacher in Building at the Brookvale Tech. His activities quickly expanded, to include the North Sydney Tech., and the number of classes grew. Once again his thirst for knowledge and the desire to possess full qualifications, sent him back to the Tech., where he did the Teachers' Diploma Course at evening classes. Although he was virtually teaching full time and had the necessary qualifications and had the results to back them up, Bob declined the repeated offer to join the full-time teaching staff largely because acceptance could result in him being considered available for appointment at any country area and he did not wish to leave Sydney. As an active and keen member of his Battalion Association, Bob served on the Executive and was Vice President for many years, up to the time of his death. During those years, his continuing efforts have included the organising of all social events and city reunions and his contribution, both in debate and service, has been deeply appreciated by the Executive and the Association. He was a remarkable man, in whom sincerity, compassion, understanding, generosity and steadfastness of purpose, all combined to give him that rare quality of being able to give something of himself to all, who came in contact with him often to the detriment of himself. Those were the attributes, which endeared him to us all. And we join with that vast legion in extending to Shirley, Robyn and Colin, and their families, our deepest sympathy. And we mourn with them, the loss of their loved one, and our esteemed mate, Robert William Jack. Les Hall says, "I am grieved to hear of the passing of Ward Booth and Bob Jack. They were both highly regarded and will be sadly missed. My wife and I express sympathy to both families.” "Kingie" (C.A..) Martin adds, "So sorry to hear of the death of Ward Booth, as he was in “D” Company, also Bill Skene. My deepest sympathy to both families.” Bet Dawson rang and in the conversation she said that it was sad to hear of Bob Jack's passing. Alan Charlton comments, "Very sad to see our mates pass on, but that's life, isn't it? I have fond memories of Ward Booth with his rendering of that famous little song about, “Nancy in the hills of West Virginny" and he always in the P.O.W. Camps had a cheery word of encouragement for the "boys". I never got to know Bob Jack closely, but my sympathy to both families.” Noel Johnston writes, "I was more than usually affected by Bob Jack's sudden death - I liked him immensely - I also recommended him, when we got back to Changi from the Burma Railway for a decoration on a citation of the story given in "MAKAN". Frank Hannan asks, "Please convey through your "MAKAN" my very deepest sympathy to all families. A note from me is something out of the past, but I was stirred by your last "MAKAN", as it brought very sad news, the passing of Ward Booth, Bob Jack, also Bill Skene. I saw quite a lot of Bob on "F" Force; then again at Changi, Bob was very ill. John Korsch finishes off his note, "Very sorry to hear of Bob Jack's passing. He and Phil stayed here on their trip." Jean Donald also comments, "Well here's hoping you don't have a sad "MAKAN" next time. I am referring to the number of deaths in the last issue." Harry Rhodes says, "Both Ethel and I were deeply shocked to read of the sudden death of Bob Jack. I would like you through "MAKAN" to express the deepest sympathy to his wife, Shirley, and family from us and the 2/30 Bn members of our Northern Rivers Branch of the Ex-Ps.O.W. Association." Hoot Gibson tells me, ''I was saddened to hear of the passing of Bob Jack. I had a lot to do with him over the P.O.W. days especially on “F” Force, I was also on the working party when he received the bashing and remember it vividly. The Nip guards were a bunch of animals. Young Andy Anderson nearly caused a mutiny at the time, but fortunately nothing happened or we all would have lost our heads."
NX55186 Francis
(Frank) Joshua Craven - HQ Company, Transport Platoon Frank was a quiet type. A capable truck driver in the Transport Platoon, carrying out whatever duty he was asked. A solid citizen, whose occupation before the war was as a milkman and he carried on as a milkman after returning home. Cardiac arrest carried him off. He has left behind his wife, Ann, daughter, Judith and her husband, Mark, and his three grandchildren, Bernadette, Matthew and Francis. He was only in his 61st year and would have turned 62 on Christmas Day next. Your scribe was the only Battalion member able to attend at his funeral service and later at the cremation at Rookwood Crematorium. We extend the sympathy of the Battalion to Frank's family at this sudden tragedy.
QX9703 Gunner Keith
W. Hooper - 2/10th Field Regiment J Force Keith had been Patron of the Queensland Ex-Ps.O.W. Association and his wife Betty, Patroness of their Ladies Auxiliary. This notice may only be of importance to members of "J" Force, who went to Japan on 15/5/1943. Keith was a member of the 300 Australian component of that Aus/British Party, and was very badly troubled by asthma, whilst they were in "Kobe House". Evacuated from that camp, after it was set on fire by American incendiary bombs, "J" Force joined "C" Force in a camp in the hills above Kobe, and Keith with Alex Dandie, Dick Eathorne, Harry Griffis, Jens Hansen, all 4 being 2/30 Bn men in a mixed party of about 250 of all nationalities, were taken from Kobe to the other side of the island of Honshu to a camp at Nomachi from where parties serviced the nearby port of Toyama by providing carrying gangs unloading barges into godowns and railway trucks. His privations weakened Keith's back, so that for some time he had to wear a steel brace, and on one memorable occasion his wife, Betty, drove from Queensland to Sydney and back with Keith spreadeagled over the back seat, so that he could attend a "Kobe House" Reunion in Sydney. In the election campaign when Keith first entered Queensland State Parliament, ex-servicemen, in the metropolitan area around Brisbane, collaborated in his campaign team, without regard for party affiliations, in the distribution of pamphlets and manning of booths on polling day, so that he was elected on a personal vote, and had remained in Parliament since. Keith's death was a shock to all. "Joe” Johnson heard of it on the radio at his farm at Knockrow near Bangalow and phoned the news through to your scribe, as he did not know, if the Sydney papers would have the news. We sympathise with Betty and their two daughters and family in their loss.
Mrs Jean Isobel
West, Wife of Donald S. West - ”B” Company & Blakang Mati, and also the
sister of George Winchester, “C” Company & "H" Force AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN AND IN THE MORNING WE WILL REMEMBER THEM. News, Views and Who's Who
Max McClelland - HQ
Company - Granville, 2142
Albert Hodge – “A”
Company - Gilgandra, 2827
Frank Topham – “C”
Company - Eastlakes, 2018
Jack Grossmith - HQ
Company - Woy Woy, 2256
A. Mck ("Don")
Garner – “B” Company - Nambucca Heads, 2448
Kenny Forward – “C”
Company - Yagoona, 2199 Regards to all, Yours, Ken."
Phil Paget – “B”
Company - Villawood, 2163 In Shanghai everyone dresses the same. They took us over a factory, and a commune, where the workers live, but they have no running water, it all has to be carted from a public well - most families live in one room. They have no private cars; they took us everywhere in buses and it was a case of come and go with the mob, even if you were sick to death of the outing. You just could not get back to the ship. On the first day we left the ship at 8 a.m., toured factories first, then visited an art building, saw some films, had lunch and were allowed a couple of hours to rest, if you could call it that in the heat. No fans or air conditioning for them, and only hard seats to sit on. We had to suffer a few speeches and at night they gave us a dinner. I managed to eat enough to stop from starving (but I do not like Chinese food that much). We were taken to their highest grade Department Store for some shopping, but it was very poor and nothing worth buying. Then back to the ship for a shower, a hot cup of tea and bed. We had 3 days of this organisation and breathed a sigh of relief, when we left. Once there does me; wouldn't go there again. Now we know how they live. One of their peculiarities is that they clapped us in and out of the places, to which we were taken. It seems that this is their way of making you welcome. Phil has a picture here of every officer and NCO, taken outside the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Batu Pahat, when the Chamber of Commerce gave a welcoming dinner to them after the Battalion had been in the barracks there for some time. Phil sent it home and we still have it, so when the next Reunion is on, he intends to bring it with him, so that he can show it to everyone. Will sign off now, Cheerio. Dot Paget.
Garry Evans – “A”
Company - Strathfield, 2135 He says he was grateful for the hospital visiting to him there, as arranged by Kevin Ward, and was in touch with Billy Douglas, who was in Concord at the same time. Garry says that he is just on the verge of retiring and is looking forward to it as he will then have no business worry because he had sold out of his business at Granville last October, so he has no ties. (see page 29)
"Mick" Lovell - BHQ
- Sylvania, 2224 He reports that Gwyneth and he now have four grandchildren, daughter, Kerrie, has two boys and Suzanne a 'Pigeon Pair'. "I am looking forward to a trip early January 1978 back to Singapore, the Mainland, Bangkok and Tamarkan and over to Hong Kong. Kindest regards, Mick.
Lyn Booth – “A”
Company - Turramurra, 2074 Bob Bridges – “D” Company - Goulburn, 2580 Sheila has returned Bob's Reunion Plebiscite Sheet with the comment, "I am sorry Bob is unable to give his views on the Reunion problem, he has just been in hospital again with pneumonia, but manages to get going again. We have had another grandson, named Benjamin, which gives us three delightful grandchildren and Bob gets much pleasure from them, although he can only sit and watch their antics as they grow up.
Johnny Kreckler - HQ
Company - Ramsgate, 2217 (You might well ask why I put all of Johnny's letter in seeing that 13th August has come and gone. Well, first of all Johnny's letter arrived after the stencils had been made up for last "MAKAN" and I had listed already the BALLINA REUNION in the section asking you to note your diaries of coming events. Second the "MAKAN" team worked hard, the last two nights till after midnight to get the "MAKAN" in the post, so that it would be received before all the Reunions that are held in their different centres around about 15th August each year, and I was not to know that those "so and so's" in the Post Office at Redfern Mail Exchange were going to hold up the mails, (I've got to say this but also I must apologise to chaps like Harry Griffis, Jimmy Morgan, Artie Power and others, who are connected with it still, have retired from it or who have cobbers there; my Dad was in country Post Offices at Yass, Trangie, Woodburn before he came down to Sydney and finished up at City South Exchange in the clerical side of the Engineering Section). Third, invitations like this one always come from the country blokes for visitors to come to their Reunions whether they be North, South or West or anywhere else in the State. They have been printed before in "MAKAN" and they mean it. The welcoming hand will always be there, and I will always put in a note or two to remind you, even if it had to be a "Stop Press" for Keith Mulholland with word of the special Reunion in the Riverina for the 3rd September 1977 at Leeton.
Ray Duncombe - HQ
Company - Balmain, 2041
Garry Rickwood – “C”
Company - Hullbridge, Essex, United Kingdom I intended retiring and my wife and I had a look around and for tax purposes thought we'd go overseas. We had a good look around Portugal, Spain, Italy and Ireland and decided that it was better to pay the taxman and stay in England. My business interests allow that only 20 hours a week given to their attention keeps me interested without the grind. Now that we have built a really beautiful home I hope to enjoy a comfortable old age. I have been most fortunate with my health. I had sense enough to give up smoking 20 years ago. I look after Number 1 pretty well, 2 or 3 scotches before dinner and the odd bottle of wine about covers my drinking and I try to keep myself under 14 stone and manage to fit in two or three 18 holes of golf every week. If any of the lads are in London, my phone number is (as given in last "MAKAN") Southend on Sea 232039; it's only fifty minutes by train. I would be delighted to see any of them. I hope life has been good to all. Yours, Garry."
Tom Kennedy – “C”
Company - Cardiff Heights, 2285 We are having a holiday on a friend's property at Gloucester, and we are hoping that it will do him the world of good. Our youngest son, Tom (Jnr) has been doing well with his organ playing. He won the Regional Finals in Newcastle at the Yamaha Organ Festival, 1977; then the State Finals in Sydney and followed up with gaining 2nd place in the National Finals in Melbourne, which makes us very proud of him. Our grandchildren are still on the 23 mark. Tom says to wish all the best of health, Helen."
Arnie Ainsworth - HQ
Company (Transport) - Mollymook, 2539 It is a long while since I saw you last - Mandai Village Road, I think, Alex. The years go by, quickly too, for some unfortunately not quite so well and among the many who come to mind is Colonel George Ramsay. If his ailments had happened to me, I might say I deserved it - but not that diplomat, Col. G.E. Ramsay. (Arnie can speak quite feelingly on this because he was on "A" Force with "Gentleman George". Ed) Getting closer to home I have noted. that George Stephenson has given you brief news of me from time to time but I rather think that he should have elaborated a little more about himself. George had a limp in one leg and I observed that it was become gradually worse. He is at present a patient in the Port Kembla General Hospital, having had a plastic hip fitted; his wife reports that he is making satisfactory progress. News from Les Hall was that after George had had the plastic hip fitted he was moved to Milton Hospital, closer to home. Then news came in from George himself (see page 30) saying that the new hip is proving successful. As for the writer he keeps reasonably well - most of the spare time in the vegetable garden. There's much to do as you would know, I guess, when one moves to a new house, especially having lived in the former one for nigh twenty five years. Hope to give more time to the fishing in the warmer weather and certainly have no desire to return to Canberra now. It was refreshing to have seen Les Hall on a couple of occasions. By coincidence he was down here, visiting his daughter, on the occasion of my 70th birthday (1st June) and unknown to me my wife arranged for Les, his wife, Gladys, their daughter and son-in-law to come around and have a quiet toast. I discovered that even at my age I can still raise the glass without spilling any. We have a daughter living in Canberra and the wife combines a few days with them and medical visits periodically and in between times the daughter and family are able to have a break here now and then. My daughter has one boy 4½ years and twin boys about 18 months, and, although this is a new house, it is damn near wrecked already. Must go now, Alex, best regards to yourself and all the 30th. Sincerely yours, Arnie M.A.
Ron McBurney – “A”
Company - Cabramatta, 2166 We have received word now that Philip, now 24 years old, was married, at Watson's Bay Naval Chapel, on the 30th July and we wish the happy couple a long and worthwhile life together, sharing each other's joys and burdens, for no one can have the one without the other. Ron comments, "The Chapel is fairly small but built on a cliff and when one faces the altar one looks out to sea and has a beautiful view of the ocean. Philip and his bride have moved into a Naval unit in South Coogee. That's about it. All the best to all. Ron."
"Kingie'' Martin –
“D” Company - Dorrigo, 2433 "Kingie" closes by saying "Hoping all are well, Carl Martin (Kingie)".
Les Hall - HQ
Company - Harbord, 2096 He says, "With my wife I recently paid a visit to our youngest daughter and her husband at Mollymook. The day after we arrived we had the pleasure of joining Joan and Arnie Ainsworth at their home. It was the occasion of Arnold's 70th birthday (so you see Arnie it was just as well you beat Les to it and gave your report first. Ed). We paid our respects and enjoyed tasting the cake made by Joan to celebrate Arnie reaching his three score years and ten. (Now then Arnie, you did not mention the cake. You have a lot to be thankful for if your wife is a good cook. And just because she most likely serves you up delightful cakes all the time you should not forget that little word of praise. At any rate Les keeps on throwing the bouquets.) Incidentally Joan met up with Arnie at Bathurst in our pre-embarkation days. I cannot recall now whether the nuptials were celebrated before we sailed or when we returned. Of one thing I am certain - Arnie, or was it Joan, made an excellent choice. (So you may both take a bow. Ed) They, like Flo and George Stephenson consider Mollymook as the greatest place in the world to which to retire. Flo and George do not enjoy the best of health having chest troubles and George has recently acquired trouble with his right hip (reported in Arnie Ainsworth's letter as having an attempt to right it with a plastic hip - Jack Maclay reports knowing great success with such an operation, so here's wishing you all the best, George, and a speedy return to your old form.) Les says "all four mentioned send their kind regards to all members of the Association.” Les also reports that he has suffered the loss of his older brother, who lived at Wagga Wagga. He was one of the loading party assigned for the "Johann" on the day the Battalion sailed from Sydney. His sister is in hospital too. His son-in-law at Mollymook has had trouble diagnosed now to be leaking heart valve so he has to be careful. It looks like poor old Les will have to have the courage of Job and I know that he still retains his old cheerful smile; but a second letter says, "Someone breathed on me and I am in bed with the MUMPS. (You all remember what devastation there was at Bathurst just prior to final leave with that same complaint).
Les Hemming - HQ
Company - Yagoona, 2199 Dorothy reports that Les suffered severe pains in the chest a few weeks ago and had difficulty getting his breath. He has had attacks of nervous dyspepsia for some time and those, who examined him at the hospital, said his attack was due to nerves. (However one eminent medico said to me once that he hoped that checks would be made on all organic parts of the body before such a statement were to be made. Ed)
Reg Napper – “D”
Company - Lane Cove, 2066
Tom Davis – “D”
Company - Grafton, 2460
Des Kearney – “B”
Company - Mosman, 2088
Ron Eaton - BHQ -
Gordon, 2072
Fred Campbell - HQ
Company - Died 3/12/1943 at Kanburi No. 1 Bruce said that "despite her age, Mrs Campbell is still very articulate and with a clarity of mind equal to people half her age." Your Scribe attended the 8th Div. Reunion at Bathurst so before we booked in at the R.S.L. Club, we went round to Mrs Campbell's house to see her and although it was 6 days since her birthday there were enough flowers still to show what a glorious sight the cottage must have been, one bunch of Western Australian wildflowers from relatives at that time in Perth during a round Australia trip was particularly eye-catching. We were made welcome by Mr. and Mrs Herb Wilson and one of their daughters, Mrs Stephenson of Baulkham Hills, Sydney. The cuttings, sent down by Bruce Pratt, say: "Walking in the ways of the Lord is the secret of longevity.......ask Mrs Campbell of Durham Street, Bathurst, who had her 100th birthday yesterday.” “I have always sought to live according to His will and I know that he will look after me all the days of my life", she said. Mrs Campbell was speaking at the little 19th century cottage, where she lives with her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs Herb. Wilson. During the past few days (and especially yesterday) the cottage was thronged with well-wishers. Yesterday afternoon there was a special ceremony when Mrs Campbell was toasted. She cut a large cake made in her honour. During the function messages of congratulations were read by Pastor L. Schick, of the Seventh Day Adventist Church. She has been a staunch member of the Church for about fifty five years and was Church Treasurer for many years. Those sending congratulatory telegrams yesterday included the Queen, the Governor-General, Sir John Kerr, the Prime Minister, Mr. Malcolm Fraser, the Governor of New South Wales, Sir Roden Cutler, the Premier, Mr Neville Wran, and the M.P. for Macquarie, Ald. Reg Gillard. The MLA for Bathurst, Mr. Clive Osborne, and the Mayor, Ald. Les Wardman were among those who visited Mrs Campbell yesterday. Mrs Campbell's husband, George, died 28 years ago. She was the eldest of a family of 11 children and is the only survivor. Among those present with her yesterday were her other daughter, June (Mrs Len Dale of Galston) and her husband. Her only son, Frederick, joined the A.I.F. in World War Two and died as a prisoner of the Japanese in Malaya. Also in attendance yesterday were her eight grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Up to seven or eight weeks ago Mrs Campbell was in excellent health and sometimes walked up to 20 blocks a day. Recently she has been indisposed and spends most of her, time in an armchair. Mrs Campbell was born at Inverell, where her father had a general store. When she was 9 the family moved over to the Darling River between Bourke and Brewarrina, where, her father took up land and established a thriving property. Mrs Campbell married at the age of 22. She and her husband lived in various country areas and moved to Bathurst in 1914. For many years they lived on the former experimental farm. On behalf of his company, Mr. Bob Twemlow, Area Representative for McWilliam's Wines, presented Mrs Campbell with a pair of pure wool blankets. This year the company is also celebrating its centenary and has given many gifts in this way to those who have, their 100th birthday this year with the Company. Mrs Campbell's life had not been easy, but it had been interesting and full. Her life was based on hard work, happy family relationships and community service. Until recently she spent much of her time walking about and cheering up the old people. (but see page 33)
Bill Melville –
O.C. “D” Company - Wounded at Gemas and Repatriated
Allan McPherson - HQ
Company - Yamba, 2464
Frank Rampling - HQ
Company - Randwick, 2031 I hope to be at the Reunion and will be in touch before then. Regards to all. Frank.
Terry O’Rourke – “C”
Company – Narrandera, 2700 Penang is a gem - slow moving, old style Malay culture and most attractive scenery. We went to the village every night for a yarn and a few beers. Singapore, as our other correspondents have advised, is now a modern fast moving city, hard to visualise from the old days. We went to Changi, saw Selerang, crossed the causeway into Johore and saw Kranji twice. The War Cemetery is kept in perfect order. It is sad to see names of former comrades - as my wife said, "All too young to die." I advise anyone going to buy as much duty free alcohol as possible, as grog is extremely dear in the large hotels. The young Chinese girls are still as lovely as ever and I am afraid I was easily caught to buy from them. We flew Qantas and M.A.S. I recommend the former. Daughter, Margaret, took a bus trip from Kathmandu to Benares, across India, Afghanistan and Iran to Belgium and London. She has been away for 6 months and has been to Morocco, Spain, Greece and an International Women's Conference in Geneva. Kathleen has commenced studies at the University of New South Wales and is doing Arts/Law. This is her first year and she is doing well. One son is working for a Courier Service in Sydney and the other bloke is on a farm near Coopernook. I am keeping reasonably well but overweight. However I still play a bit of tennis. Regards to all the boys. Terry.
Ernie Willis - HQ
Company - Parkes, 2870 He says 'Hello' to all his Battalion mates and this year hopes to be at Bathurst Reunion and, of course, I will be with him. (Thanks for the news, Elsie. He was always a hard worker in that Transport Platoon, but I did not know that he could not lift a pen these days. I'll bet if it were a glass of beer or one of his bowls he can manage those. All the best and I hope to meet up with him again and to meet you. Ed).
Frank Purvis – “B”
Company - Gymea, 2227 To bring you up to date on the Purvii - Ruth and I are reasonably well, apart from an occasional visit to the doctor, to make sure that nothing has dropped off.
No 1 daughter -
Lesley, married to a teacher (Lesley is also a teacher) - 2 daughters,
Ruth (5) and Eve (2). As you can see all are Public servants and I explain to them at great length, the tax burden is killing me (poetically not literally). The grandchildren, Lesley's pair, were down with us over Gemas Day period and I missed attending a day that I do like to attend. I know that they would have been welcome, however, neither Ruth nor I are in a condition to chase two small children. During Easter, Ruth and I visited Lesley at Rolland's Plains, in behind Wauchope and on the way back we dropped in on Arthur George Buckingham at Krambach. We were made most welcome. Buck proudly displayed his 40-acres and new house. A delightful spot and magnificent view. He and Claire looked well. Back home some painting and gardening called but this house should be easier to maintain, the main reason for moving. As most of, I should say, all of the retired gentlemen, whom I meet, seem to be enjoying themselves, I am quite looking forward to retirement. Three more years and then I hope to be able to get round to see more of the boys. Regards to all. JR.
Alan Charlton - HQ
Company - Wollongong, 2500 Alan went on to say that he, like Sammy Hall and a few others, has had to lay off drinking and, in Alan's case Changi and Thailand weren't the only Hells he has known, but he hasn't had a drink for 23 years now, but the boys would not believe him because he said that he liked his stews with rum in them. He had to explain that the alcohol evaporates and only the flavour is left. (I wonder how many of the chaps got their wives to try a strew Alan's way within a few days of their gathering, or maybe, they would prefer it the other way, straight from the flask.)
D. Jeff. Gillespie –
“B” Company - Cobargo, 2547
Eric Vollheim – BHQ
Band - "B” Force
Arthur Buckingham –
“B” Company - Krambach, 2429 Arthur is one who would like to get a copy of the Battalion History, as he had given his to a very deserving case and has missed it since. (My list of those who want to get hold of a copy is into double figures, so if there are some of you who have asked about copies in the past and have had to be denied one because there just were not any, please let me know if you would be in the market for one. Ed)
Noel Johnston - HQ
Company - Northbridge, 2063 Noel says, "I am conscious that my initial sub of £5/-/- for a Life Membership was hardly expected to see me over 32 years since we got home", so what did he do, but add some more to his cheque, so that some could go to general funds as well as provide for his Annual Reunion charge and advance subs for "MAKAN". (Thanks Noel. Ed)
Garry Evans – “A”
Company - Strathfield, 2135
Stuart Robertson –
“A” Company - Tooraweenah 2817
Padre "Paddy" Walsh My very best wishes to all. Sincerely, Padre P.J. Walsh."
Tom Nixon - HQ
Company - Brunswick Heads, 2483 I also found time to visit Harry Teasdale at his home. He is improving steadily and with the help of his wife and good friend, Alex Olley, who was doing the odd jobs, when I arrived, he should be much better when I see him in a couple of weeks. Regards to all, Tom."
George Stephenson -
HQ Company - Mollymook, 2539 I came home from hospital 2 weeks after the operation 4 weeks ago and have been walking with a stick ever since. I am seeing the specialist today and I expect that he will probably tell me when I can throw the stick away. Unfortunately, after I came home from hospital I have had a bad dose of bronchitis. It has taken a month to clear up. Am looking forward to starting up on the bowling green again. I am thinking of taking a trip to Griffith to see my brother and will see Frank Webb, who, I believe, has just had a heart attack, though I am not sure how bad. My brother is married to Frank's sister. Might see Bill Brown, who I believe is still in Griffith. Saw Arnie Ainsworth the other day. He seems to be settling down at Mollymook, has quite a nice garden and is also doing quite a lot of work around the house. That's all for now. All the best. George."
Alan Charlton - HQ
Company - Ballina, 2478 Another little bit about Harry Teasdale, "He's slowly improving and can walk a little now." Alan's wife, Yvonne, he says "has not been well of late and, as well as hypertension, has developed arthritis." He is one of those who have had to fight Repat. for their acceptance of his disabilities, as he says, 'The Repat. accepted my eye disabilities (mainly caused by glare) about 29 years ago but not pensionable, yet, when my employing Company retired me medically unfit because of just that disability, the Repat Doctors, plus the Chairman of the Assessment Appeals Tribunal said "that's only sore eyes, that wouldn't stop you from working, so we'll declare you unemployable and you can go for the Service Pension! Terrific: I had been on 90% for 20 years and, because I had become much deafer, they increased it to 100%. I just couldn't win." Alan says that the fishing is very good in the river up at Ballina; "I was down there last weekend and no bite in about two hours. I started to reel in my line, some of it got down behind the spool and jambed, so I had to take the spool off - and that is when a bream, about a pound weight, decided to take the bait. Another chap held my rod and spool, so that I could bring it in by hand, but the bream swam towards me and, when I went to lift it out of the water, it dropped the bait and off. I got another reel, threw out and was just about to sit in the chair, at the same time reaching to release the reel, so that it would run backwards and pay out line, when a big Jewie hit it! It took what line was out, almost pulled me into the water and because the line wasn't running, dropped the bait. As I said, I must have used up most of my luck "over there". Have caught some nice bream though. He also says, "I had three brothers in W/W 2 and all are still going along fine, although my eldest brother was boarded out of the P.M.G. at 59 because of his wound. (He was in 2/31st and wounded in Syria). A younger brother was original 2/1st and was captured in Crete, and the youngest of the three was in New Guinea. A much younger one fought in Korea, had a leg broken by shell blast and had to "play dead" all night in the snow, on his back, as the Chinese overran the position and would bayonet any one on the ground who moved. It affected his kidneys and nerves and he's been T.P.I. ever since. He's only 49 now. Ah well, "C'est la vie", as Napoleon said Cheerio for now. Kind regards to all, Alan.
Ray Donald – “B”
Company - Glen Innes, 2370 Ray would like to quit Glen Innes for next winter. He finds that the cold weather here does not agree with his old bones. He is now 62 years old. We now have four dogs, the latest addition being a bull terrier, which Ray hopes to train for foxes next year. A funny thing happened! We joined the Pistol Club here; Ray took me out to the range and said "go ahead". It was the very first time that I had held a firearm of any description and he said, if I beat him, I could have the pistol. Well!! so I had a go and talk about "beginner's luck", I beat them all. I got the gun, but no magazine! He apparently didn't trust me. At any rate we got rid of it later. Frank McDonald ("Uncle Mac" to our kids), called in on his way home from Queensland. He did look well although he had been very sick last Christmas.
Ray Ferry – “B”
Company - Campbelltown, 2560 (News has been scarce of you, so what about a letter, please? Ed)
E.P. Hilton - 16
Platoon "D" Company - Address Unknown
Les Melrose - HQ
Company - Matraville, 2036 Les' son, Warwick, is not to be confused with the captain of the team, also with the surname "Melrose" but whose other handle is "Tony", school captain of Northmead High and Parramatta's first-grade Rugby Union five-eighth, who kicked Parramatta into the Sydney Grand Final. Warwick is one of four picked from Matraville High's team which won the Waratah Shield for their school in August. The team was selected recently after trials at David Phillips Field in which 37 players took part. The team of 27 will leave on November 24th to play matches in Japan, France, England, Ireland, Wales and Holland and will be away about nine weeks. Of the 27, New South Wales representatives number 16, Queensland has 9 and there are two from the A.C.T.
Reg Napper – “D”
Company - Lane Cove, 2066
Fred Campbell - HQ
Company - Died 3/12/1943 At Kanburi No 1
Mrs Edna Sinclair -
Armidale, 2350 Edna has been staying for a while with her daughter, Helen Penman at Tamworth, where she is now living with husband, John, and the two boys, although John's Inspector's duties with the Education Dept take him away to other towns frequently.
Harley Forrester –
“D” Company - Condell Park, 2200
George Winchester –
“C” Company - Pymble, 2073
"Joe" Johnston – “D”
Company - Knockrow, 2479 Kevin tells me, that he has a problem which he did not foresee as part of his job, but nevertheless is doing for "Joe" Johnston, in that "Joe's" daughter, Cheryl, who is now teaching at Central Bankstown Primary and son, Greg, who is an Accountant with Telecom in Sydney, are sharing a flat at Five Dock but are seeking better accommodation in the way of a flat, which they wish to share with one of Cheryl's mates, another trainee teacher at present on staff at the Lalor Park School; their search therefore being to find a flat more or less equidistant from all three spots. Kevin would be glad of news of suitable accommodation, if anyone can help in this matter.
Fred Bladwell - HQ
Company (Mortars) - Undercliffe, 2206
Steve Kirton - HQ
Company (Sigs) - Burnaby, British Columbia
Ron Johnston – “C”
Company - Pittsworth Q. 4356
John D. Korsch – “C”
Company - Grafton, 2460 Our last trip took us 'down through Victoria to Phillip Island, then across Victoria to Mt. Gambier and back to Shepparton for Easter.
Bert Farr - HQ
Company (Sigs) - Turramurra, 2074 It is interesting to see from "MAKAN" how scattered the Association's membership is with so many country residents and it is good to see how active these boys are in their respective centres." Bert was one of the Battalion on "A" Force, in which he had contact with Rohan Rivett, who, you may recall wrote "Behind Bamboo", soon after our return and has since become a journalist of some note; another in "A" Force, now in his 70's, but forced to give up his farming life, to which he returned after the War, having been a farmer all his life, was Doug Harris, 2/3 M.T., "too old" for World. War 2 he put. his age back to join the AIF; was captured in Java; was moved to Changi and then up to Burma with "A" Force. Doug had been essentially an outdoor man, who, from his young days, had a fascination for the bullock and horse teams, which operated in the outback areas of New South Wales. Doug's lifelong admiration for the teamsters and their teams has led him to use his retirement in active research into their story for the past five years, to put it into manuscript form in a book, titled, "THE TEAMS OF THE BLACKSOIL PLAINS", and published by Rohan Rivett at his own expense, as he had been a good mate of Doug Harris' on the Line. Bert says that the book was reviewed in the Sydney Morning Herald of 17 Sep. He describes it as, "a concise (55 page) publication, describing with insight and humour the struggles of the hardworking bullockys; dispelling some of the commonly held opinions, that these men were all champion blasphemers, boozers and brawlers; an entertaining narrative, which fills a gap in the recorded history of Australia's pioneering days." The more copies of the book to be sold direct means more in returns to Doug Harris. Bert has been asked by Rohan Rivett to assist with the distribution in N.S.W. and, although the bookselling trade is foreign to Bert, he has agreed to do this. Neither Rohan Rivett nor Bert Farr are interested in profits other than to cover their expenses. Normal book traders want 50% or 40% of selling price, if they handle a book, and just as the 2/19th Battalion History was printed and distributed privately for that very reason, so is this to be the same. Bert sees this as an Ex-Ps.O.W. project by him and Rohan Rivett to help Doug Harris, and seeks your support. Copies of the book may be obtained by sending your name and address to Bert Farr, with $4.95, per copy. "Ward" Booth - Alf Harding - "Melbourne Cup, 1942” I am told that Melbourne Cup Day was celebrated in various ways in different camps, but the Work Party on the "Shrine Job" based in the cottages at Caldecott Hill had the advantage of having Alf Harding with them. Alf with what we would now term "His Computer Bank Memory" was able to give "Ward" all the details of Winners of the Cup over the years, who their riders were when they won; their silks; the horses' markings. Kevin Ward recalls it as "The Phantom Voice" with "Ward" giving a "Radio Announcer's Commentary" on the race as if there were a broadcast of the actual race. "Ward" himself was virtually at Melbourne, as he described the horses lining up, the start; the position of the various horses as they fought their way around the track. The close accuracy for detail, for the full time of the race and over the full length of the course, could not have been bettered. George Aspinall has told me that he was behind the stage which had been rigged up behind the houses for entertainments, and from which "Ward" was announcing, speaking into the open end of a tin, so that the "broadcast" really sounded authentic. George Aspinall himself was occupied with gear, that he had "acquired", and providing music as from a radio station. No one knew which might be the probable winner or the other placings until the "broadcast" had them flashing past the finishing line. Excitement was at fever pitch and there were enough bookies to take the odds of those in the betting ring who favoured different nags, as the race description wait on. Does anyone remember which horse won? Tom Grant – “C” Company - Murwillumbah, 2484 Tom, one of the young fellows in the Battalion, had his twenty first birthday on one of the Working Paries on Singapore Island. I asked him which one it was and he has told me that he was working on the "Shrine Job”, but he's not quite sure of the name of where he bedded down for the night. The Party, as a whole, was somewhat of Brigade strength with a major part of the 2/30th plus a company of odds and sods from Division HQ as a group under Noel Johnston as Commanding Officer. These were first on an Estate known as Mount Pleasant, buildings, housing civilian whites before the War; the Party later moved over to Caldecott Hill near the wireless station. Another portion of the Party from the Artillery, 2/15, 2/10 and 4th Anti/Tank were in buildings on lower ground in Thompson Road. "Black Jack" was in command of the whole, occupying one of two cottages with the Japanese guard occupying the adjacent one, and it was the guard there that B.J. had outfitted by Bert Galbraith, as Regimental Tailor, because their ragged uniforms offended his dignity, that he should be a P.O.W. under a guard of what seemed "Rag Tag and Bob Tail" of the Japanese Army. Tom declares, "The Mt. Pleasant tag is near enough for where we slept, though I have never been quite sure whether that name or Caldecott Estate was the correct one. By a process of association I tend to call the place Caldecott. You will recall a malady which afflicted most of us at that time. It was named according to where you were at the particular time; such as, Changi Balls; Bukit Timah Balls; ice Balls and so on. We referred to it as Caldecott Cods, hence you will understand why I refer to the Caldecott Estate as the place of the Camp. I have never heard it referred to as Mt. Pleasant Balls or Cods etc. I am writing, of course, about what our medical people, who, by their training and knowledge, referred to it as Dermatitis of the scrotum. Those who experienced it will not forget what an uncomfortable condition it was. (On Caldecott Hill, Tom, Capt. John Taylor had his R.A.P. in a garage, situated on a concrete driveway, serving various houses, and I can conjure up a mind picture of vigorous fanning to ease the stinging of whatever mixture it was that John Taylor was trying out, because there was a lot of experimenting to find what might combat the troubles, so that there were various colours of potions applied, and another name I recall was "Flaming Onions". Ed) Tom continues: "We were not to know at that time but Caldecott Estate was, in my experience, far and away the best camp during my P.O.W. days. Mostly we travelled from there to the shrine job at Bukit Timah. On the day I turned 21, I found myself at the shrine, which atop the hill was probably the highest point on the Island. It. was approached by a length of roadway and then by a flight of concrete stairs, which, I suppose, were quite impressive in their way. My thoughts at the time could be summed up, I suppose, by saying that I wondered, if I might see my next birthday. Such occasions were not celebrated in the way one might expect had circumstances been otherwise. Most of us would have celebrated four birthdays over there; some might have had five. It was possible that the Burma Railway was the venue for the next. I am not at all sure whether it was at No 1 or No 2 Camp. Indeed conditions were such, that I doubt, if I could have told you off hand what month it was, let alone the date of birthdays or any other anniversary. The wonder of that place was not that so many died but that any one at all survived the place. My next anniversary was on the 'drome job at Changi and the following one at Johore Bahru; after the Burma Railway experience these places tend to be forgotten. The 'drome is not much mentioned these days, though it was, at that time, a long haul, exposed to the sun all day and every day and tended to take away some of the edge one may have had. In Johore Bahru I was on Xl Tunnelling Party and that was also hard work on the rations of that time. Kind regards to all, Tom Grant." Ron McBurney – “A” Company - Cabramatta, 2166 Ron was another of the young brigade and on his 21st birthday he was a member of a Working Party camped in The Great World Amusement Park in Singapore. He says, “A number of other 2/30th Bn fellows were also there. Our work consisted mainly of unloading boats, emptying godowns and warehouses. Some days or nights the scrounge was very good; if we were lucky enough to arrive back in camp with the spoils, it helped to make life a little more pleasant. The night of my 21st birthday, 14/7/1942, with several other mates from the Unit, 5 of whom are now deceased, so will not disclose their names, I had a small celebration with some rum, which found its way from Bukit Timah Racecourse, a part tin of condensed milk from Nestles House, Singapore and a drop of hot water from the cookhouse. The result, hot rum and milk on a hot balmy Singapore night, a birthday I shall never forget. Ray Duncombe - HQ Company Sigs - Balmain, 2041 Ray tells me that the "Do You Remember" Par by Johnnie Parsons on the behaviour of the Battalion coming home on the "Esperance Bay" made him recall his return; "I came home on the "Oranje", the captain of which was the same man, who had taken us over on the "Johann Van Oldenbarnevelt" and he came around the sick bays to see, if there were any 2/30 Bn chaps aboard. Including myself there were also Alan McNickle and the late Arthur Overett that I can remember." Steve Allardice - HQ Company, Transport - Beecroft, 2119 Steve tells me that while a large part of the Battalion was working on the "Shrine Job" as their first Working Party, (Japanese), he and some 70 men made up a Transport Detachment at 2nd Avenue, off Bukit Timah Road, and their trucks picked up the men who were at Adam Road Camp and took them to the Shrine and then carted blue metal and cement. He asks, "How many of the boys of that detachment remember the American-Jap, taxi-driver, Okamoto, who was their interpreter and who drove a jeep, on to which each morning they loaded a 44 gallon drum of petrol, so that it was covered by the curtains at the back, and which he drove away to sell the petrol bringing back the empty drum, to be-filled with water and to be returned to the stack? Or, the little wooden plaque, issued for each vehicle, the Japanese writing on which plaque said, in effect, that it was to be allowed to proceed out of the camp along Bukit Timah Road without a guard so that it could have a "road test". Invariably the vehicle could not be passed in its test? Or, who would remember Gordon McKnight running a lot of Sig cable wire from the house beside the creek to the camp in order that they could have electric light? Or, who would remember the training and racing of bullfrogs and Bill Bailey being the bookmaker laying the odds, most particularly on the Jap Soldiers' pay-day? Harley Forrester – “D” Company, 16 P1atoon - Condell Park, 2200 Speaking about Ward Booth's death, Harley also asks, "does 16 Platoon remember, when Ward sent them out into a Kampong, where a leader of the Japanese was supposed to be, of how that leader ran, as 16 Platoon entered the Kampong and they shot him down, and took his sword and wallet back to Ward Booth?" Back to 1977 index or Main Index |