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Back to 1980 index or Main Index Makan No. 253 Official Journal 2/30 Bn. A.I.F. Association Subscription Rate for Makan for both Life and Annual Members per year: $1.50 Registered for Posting as Periodical: Category A
Dates For Your Diary
11 Apr, Friday -
25 Apr. Friday -
16 Aug. Saturday -
Other dates in
August. not known -
19 Oct. SUNDAY -
Oct. Sat/Sun -
2 Nov. Sunday -
15 Nov Saturday -
22/23 Sat/Sun. Nov.
- Hospital List As at 3/4/80 Kevin Ward had had a report from Concord that none of our Battalion was in Concord - OTHER: - "Jock" McKenzie, George Ramsay, Des Duffy, Mrs Black (Mother of Jack Black), Jock Logan (from Greenslopes to Rosemount Convalescent, Brisbane), Horrie Cody, Harry Law. Discharges since last report:- Ray Simmons, F.R.B. "Snowy" Stevens, Jimmy Strang, Charlie Collyer, Thelma Massey, Keith Chapman, Fred Bladwell, Ray Duncombe, Bob Dickson, Bill Rooke. Anzac Day Your scribe feels that he can do no better than to repeat some of the words of Stan Arneil, when urging men of the Battalion to be with us on this day. Stan was always consistent in his exhortations (1) “You are urged to attend and avail yourself of the privilege of marching with men, who once reckoned that this country was worth fighting for” and again, “We expect a big roll-up of members for the March and it may not be untimely to remind ourselves of a statement, which has been made before, but which bears repeating. "For every man entitled to march on Anzac Day, there are thousands, who have not this privilege"; and (2) “There is no necessity to tell you chaps, of course, that the March is a commemorative one and is not a circus as some people, not of our Unit, think. “It will be conducted with the usual decorum, that is as a March of Remembrance.” The Banner on this occasion is to be carried by Bruce Upcroft, so for the second year in succession it will be a former member of the 30th Bn Militia, who will have been granted that privilege; whilst Jock MacLean and Bob Jack, also 30 Bn. Militia have carried it previously. Those of you, who will have received your copy of the R.S.L.'s Newssheet "Reveille" will have seen the State President's reaction to the N.S.W. State Government's recently introduced legislation amending the Liquor Act. It has been the practice that "Makan" is not a forum for release of political views, but Sir Colin Hines takes the attitude, that the amendment will damage our Anzac Ceremonies, which are Acts of Remembrance to honour our Dead. Noel Johnston - Re Anzac Day Commemoration 1980 At a Meeting, which I attended at Anzac House on 29/2/80 with what appeared to be a full representation of the Services, who will be marching in the City this coming Anzac Day, the President of the R.S.L. N.S.W. - Sir Colin Hines - expressed in strong terms the resentment and objections of the League to the State Government's recent decision to permit hotels to remain open all day on Anzac Day, even during the few hours, that the March will be taking place, followed by the Anzac Service in Hyde Park. Sir Colin even expressed his opinion, that it was a deliberate attempt on the part of the "Red" element in government circles to break down the traditional "commemoration of the dead" element in the March and Service, and even perhaps providing a ready platform anywhere along the routes of the marches for anti-returned soldier demonstrations, or anti-anything, that would tend to disorganise the March and break down the traditions of Anzac Day. I would like it to be made known to all our 2/30 Boys that I am in accord with these views expressed by Sir. Colin. I feel very apprehensive that our traditional "Commemoration of the Dead" - by marching past the Cenotaph or local War Memorial and saluting that Memorial from our 2/30 ranks can well be sabotaged by this seemingly disinterested move. It behoves every one of us - irrespective of our personal attitude to beer and its by-products - to avoid, from the beginning, any move that would support this "insult to our dead”. Rather must we make very clear to the general public, that we are resentful of this innovation, which deliberately cuts across our aims on each Anzac Day morning. So, it is I make clear that, so far as the 2/30 Bn. is concerned, in whatever place we are gathered on Anzac morning to commemorate our dead, the senior man present - as well as his Bn. cobbers there - should expel from their group any member, who presents himself for the March in a fashion, which would disgrace his "Battalion", cause confusion in the March, or otherwise tend to destroy the basic character of the commemoration and bring shame to his comrades. This attitude for next Anzac Day is of paramount importance and will "set the pattern" for the future. One would expect the recipients of such a "disgrace" (if, unfortunately, there should be one or two. (and on past experience we would expect that there should not be even one. Ed.) to remember their experience on future Anzac Days to the general goodwill and satisfaction of all). Finally, I would commend to all, , the real need to make our politicians aware of our objections and strong feelings on this issue. Write to your local M.L.A. and make clear to all other public figures that we ex-servicemen want this decision revoked and the hotel situation to revert to what has been the custom for over 60 years. The R.S.L. has communicated their objections already to the Premier, but it is my view that the ex-servicemen's views will not count - it will require an angry public to do that for us. All we ex-servicemen, whose concern for the day and all it means, is the greatest, have not been pressuring the government to make this change. Who has? After the March, we will gather, as usual, for a beer or two together, before wending our way home, or wherever else our activities take us. At that stage, we will have paid our deep respects already to our mates, who are no longer with us. Sincerely, Yours, Noel Johnston." After March Get-Together Once again the Executive has selected the N.S.W. Ex-Ps.O.W. Association Rooms, 101 Clarence Street opposite to Cosmopolitan Hotel, as our meeting place after the March in the City. It is the Ex-Ps.O.W. Association's policy, with the help of Volunteers, to be open all day, to permit breakfast, a lunch or the Evening Meal to be enjoyed there, and to assist reunions of Cobbers, and where better may you see chaps in other Units, who shared your trials on the work parties. Whilst we hope that Betty Collins might be good enough to provide us with her welcome sandwiches, there are the other provisions to be had, if you so desire. The Executive earnestly requests that there be no breakaway parties as has happened in the past. Ted Rickards pays tribute: In Memory of Old Fallen Servicemen
Those, who follow
the teachings of the Lord,
Such are the rewards
waiting for this soldier brave,
As shadows fall with
a curtain of night, Last Post
NX41357 - Lieut.
Alan Rentoul Cameron. Died 15th Feb, 1980 Alan was in the first induction at Tamworth and was posted to No 7 Platoon, where his section leader was Harry Collins and his platoon commander, Ron Maston. He had attended an Eastern Command Junior Leaders Training Course in October 1940, but, as was the same with many others in the drafts from the Training Battalions, previous experience of the men in the ranks was, by "B.J.'s" orders not taken into account in the early days of the Battalion; the junior officers had been told to take into account only how men shaped up as from after they joined the Battalion. After the Unit arrived on Singapore Island, Alan was selected to go to an Officers' Training Course (O.C.T.U. as it was known) and left the Battalion on 15 Sep '41 for this Course. After the balloon went up on 8th Dec.'41, those, who were on that O.C.T.U. were granted commissions, appointed as Lieuts as from 12/12/41 and posted to G.B.D.; from there Alan returned to 2/30 Bn and was posted to C Company. He was with those members of the Battalion, who were sent from Selarang Barracks, at first to No 4 P.O.W. Working Camp under Capt. Lamacraft, then to River Valley Road Camp. He was on “F” Force, (travelling up on Train 6) in Camp 1 Kami Sonkurai with the major part of the Battalion, as it was in April 43, to go and work on the Burma/Siam "Death Railway" and came to be mentioned in the Battalion History, whilst Bn was at Kami Sonkurai, in connection with one missing pick, 1/7/43, the Japs stating, that all men would have to forego meals until the pick was found and punishing Alan, as O.C. Party, which had had the pick issued to it, by making him stand to attention in front of the guard house for several hours. Alan had been a jackeroo before the war and, naturally, sought his employment on the land on return to Civvy life. He had not contributed much to the news in Makan to let folk know how life fared with him, other than to advise changes of address, Girilambone, Carrathool and Deniliquin by 1957, and also that his wife, Moira, had presented him with Mary-Anne, the first of their two children. Then we learnt, 1976, that he was having a Cervical Laminectomy in Heidelberg A.G.H. in Melbourne. Des Kearney was the first of the Battalion in Sydney to hear of Alan's death, being told of it by Austin Ellerman 2/29 Bn., and Des then rang your scribe. Les Parfrey is the only one of our Battalion men in Deniliquin. His wife, Joyce has reported that there was a large attendance at the funeral, there being many ex-servicemen present to pay their respects. The Ode was read by an R.S.L. representative and ex-servicemen were the pall-bearers, and Joyce felt that it was a fitting farewell to one of the Bn. Moira's card of return thanks has been received already and she says, "To the Members of the 2/30 Bn. thank you sincerely for your kind thoughts and sympathy and the first flowers I received. They were beautiful in their purple and gold. We appreciated them so much, Moira, Mary-Anne and Pam Cameron. Alan was only 62 years old when he died.
NX46848 Pte. Edwin
Athol “Sandy” Christensen - Died 2/3/1980 He was with that part of the Battalion, which was camped at Mt. Pleasant and Caldecott Hill, off Thomson Road, and worked on the "Shrine Job"; returned to Changi, when that Job was completed and went with "F" Force, to the "Death Railway" in Thailand. He returned to Changi and became cook for "B" Company in the huts at Birdwood Camp. It was quite logical that he should be chosen for this job, as he was a baker and pastry cook before he enlisted. He was given the nickname of "Doover King", since it was he who began the production of rolls made basically, from rice, but with different flavourings and ingredients depending upon what the rations or canteen were able to offer. "Sandy" was one of the personalities of the Battalion and, after we came home, was a regular at all Battalion Functions in the early days, but his health was not the best and he was classified as T.P.I. Ray Body was a cobber, who came down from Raymond Terrace on Anzac Day in each of the last twelve years to accompany Sandy on the March and Get-together afterwards. "Sandy" was always generous by nature, a cheerful personality, a good mate. He was one of the Battalion Group to make the trip back to Gemencheh Bridge in Jan. 1979. Despite that they had to get a wheelchair for him, because of his bad legs, he enjoyed that trip and, it is said, would have been ready to do it again. It is some consolation that he had gone and had twelve months to think over the journey, talk of the activities on the trip, and the chance to recall the highlights of the years we spent over there. Sandy has gone now; his suffering at the end was such that he had to be given very heavy sedation. We mourn with his family at his passing to his Creator. His cremation service was held at the Woronora Crematorium at Sutherland; was attended by Jack Black, Alex Dandie, "Joe" Geoghegan, "Dutchy" Holland, Jack Maclay, Ron Maston, Ray Simmons, "Porky" Moore, and "Snowy" Stevens from the Bn; the Chatswood R.S.L. was represented by Ralph Stoddart, and there was another "Digger", his brother, Gordon, who had served in 9 Div, and had been at El Alemain, Tobruk and in Syria, amongst the ether 30 odd family and friends, to give him a soldier's last parade. Once again we already have a family acknowledgment. "Sandy's" sister, Grace Ford, who went with him on the Group Tour to Malaysia, has written from her home at Arncliffe, "I am writing this short note on behalf of my Mother, Mrs. E.V. Christensen, and all members of her family to convey our sincere thanks to the members of the 2/30 Bn. for their words of comfort and flowers sent to us, when we lost a son and brother, "Sandy". Would you be kind enough to publish this letter in "Makan" Magazine, so, as to thank one and all, as I do not have the address and phone numbers to thank all the men of the Battalion. The last time Sandy was in the company of his mates was on the 2/30 Bn. Group Tour of Malaysia and Singapore, the visit, which he wanted to make so very much, and although he was suffering far more than any one knew, he wouldn't have missed the tour for the world. As a matter of fact, he wanted to go back again, in order to see places and things, we just couldn't fit in; the fact, that he did most of the trip in a wheelchair, did not put him off. Sandy's health really grew worse over the last twelve months, having spent his last birthday, 9th April '79, in hospital and had had two more trips to hospital after that. We talked and laughed a lot over things that happened on that tour and the wonderful people, whom we met, and I am so grateful to all people concerned for making the trip such a memorable one for "Sandy" and myself. With sincere thanks to one and all from Mrs. Christensen and Family, Yours sincerely, Grace Ford." George Stephenson writes, "I was very sorry to hear of "Sandy" Christensen's death. He was one of my oldest friends in the Unit, as we were in the same Platoon from Tamworth. I hadn't seen nor heard from him for a long time, but went to the races and visited him at his Pastry cook's shop on Anzac Parade, just after we came home. It was pleasing to hear that he made the trip to Gemas. Joe Geoghegan showed me quite a lot of photographs of the trip and "Sandy" was in quite a few of them."
NX36444 - Cpl.
Robert McNickle - Died 8th March 1980 He came from Wagga District, when he enlisted and joined one of the Rifle Companies. When a call went out that Carrier Platoon wanted more men as Mechanic Drivers, Alan volunteered to transfer. He found that the job he was required to do was not what he had thought, but he was tutored by others in the Platoon, so that he was able to pass the tests and remained to become Corporal in charge of Carrier No. 13, 4 Section, with W.R. Smedley as Driver/Mechanic and Neville Riley as Gunner. In the fighting he was transferred to one of the Armoured Cars, which gave vital aid under Sgt. George Christoff, DCM, especially in getting men away to safety, after they came through from Muar and Parit Sulong, and also in helping turn back the Japs in the fight at Simpang Rengam. At the Causeway position on Singapore Island, Alan and his section were without their Carrier, but supporting “A” Company with their Vickers. After 15/2/42 he was at first at Selarang Barracks, from where he went to Thomson Road (Mt. Pleasant and Caldecott Hill) to work on the "Shrine Job" and was transferred to River Valley Road Camp early December 1942; back to Selarang Barracks, and then with the draft on "F" Force to Thailand, being on Train 5 and with Ron Eaton and Len Dawson in Truck 8 for work on the "Death Railway" at Kami Sonkurai Camp, but it seems that he was not on any of the Tunnelling Parties towards the end. On demobilisation Alan went back on the land at Wagga, where his parents had lived. He married. His wife, Joan, had been a nursing sister and they had several children. However, following on a couple of accidents, in the latter of which Alan had to have a leg amputated, they moved to the City, and Alan took work of various kinds, the last being at Garden Island, from which he retired, when his state of health worsened. The other jobs had been with Sydney Wool Futures and in the Transport section of Repat., and of them all he had been happiest at Sydney Wool Futures, but the daily trip to and fro was bad for him. He was already in Prince of Wales Hospital for treatment when he had a massive cerebral haemorrhage on the morning of Saturday, 8th March. Alan's casket was taken back to Wagga for the funeral service and Jack Black, who had been his closest friend in the Battalion, both being in the Carrier Platoon, but never posted to the same Carrier, represented the Battalion at Wagga and recited the Ode. Although Alan had been retired from Garden Island, 2 of the Electrical foremen staff there, both Ex-Navy Men, Bob Chester and Jim Calleghan, also travelled to Wagga to be present at the funeral. As part of the usual morning service on Sunday, 30th Mar. at the Uniting Church, Rose Bay, which was attended by Alan and his family, a Memorial Tribute to him was planned. Knowledge of this was learnt at very short notice, so that only 4 of the Bn. Bruce Ford, Nev Riley, Jack Black and "Doc" Wilson and one Bn. member of that congregation, "Cappy" Bligh, attended. The 2/30 Bn. A.I.F. Association was mentioned in the Tribute for Alan, but none of the five took part, primarily they went to support Jean and her family. So it is that we farewell another brave man. At gatherings of the Battalion, he did not make a mouthful of his trials. Despite them all he marched with the Battalion last Anzac Day, and almost made it, only having to give in between Castlereagh St. and Elizabeth St. when we were in Bathurst St. NX915 - Pte. F.H. (Harry) Edwards - Listed in "Reveille" of this month (April 1980) in "Last Post" columns. Harry shows in the Nominal Roll as having been repatriated from Malaya on 15th January '42 on board "Tambala" (Hospital Ship "Talamba"). He had been a member of our Reinforcements, who had been training at Manilla Road at Tamworth and sailed on the "Johan" with us to Singapore and posted to "C" Company, when he came to the Battalion. However he was plagued with Dhobi's Itch, which became septic, and led to his repatriation after discharge from hospital to G.B.D. Harry was living at Glebe Point, when he became a Member of the Association in the 1950s. He moved to Kingsgrove, but his "Makan" was returned from that address as "unclaimed" in January 1956, and nothing had been heard of him since. It is thought that he would have been over 70 at death. Deaths of Next of Kin
Charlie V. ("Andy")
Hardy - C Company – Gladesville Andy's wife Joyce, was only 53 years of age, but we were told that she had had cancer. It appears that she and Andy had only the one daughter, Patricia, who with her husband, Frank, and the three grandchildren, Lisa, Janine and Matthew, will help Andy over the difficult times following her death.,
Jack Maclay - B
Company – Rydalmere Jean had not been well for some time and Jack had been worried on her account, but we were not prepared for such sad news. The Battalion was represented at the Cremation Service at the Northern Suburbs Crematorium on Monday 31st March by Jack Black, Alex and June Dandie, Dutchy Holland, Fred and Jean Johnston, Noel Johnston, Snow and Win Mason, Ron Maston, Reg Napper, Porky Moore, Alan Pryde and Ray Rickards. As Jean had been a commissioned officer in the Nursing Service her casket was draped with the Australian Flag and after the Ode and sounding of "Last Post" & "Reveille" each of the Bn. Men placed a sprig of Rosemary on the Casket and saluted in the R.S.L. fashion, hand over the heart. The officiating Minister was related by marriage to Jack so that there was a personal message in his words. Jean had been born in Manilla; she did her training at the Tamworth Base Hospital and, frequently, attended gatherings of the nurses with whom she had trained in the early war years. She enlisted and served from 1941/46. That was not the only public service, which she performed, later, as their two boys, Robert and Stuart, attended the Rydalmere Public School, Jean did her stint on the Tuck shop Committee, and five of the other helpers on that Committee were present at the Service to pay tribute to her; of like mind they had all continued with service at the school, for some 10 years after their boys had gone to higher education fields, and then strengthened their friendship with regular meetings every month at their homes throughout the succeeding years until now. She had received the highest award that the Scout Association has to offer those layside workers, who give meritorious service on Committees, etc. the "Thanks Badge", for over 12 yrs in Jean's case. She gave practical help to the Australian Red Cross, of which she was a long standing Member, in the making and remaking of garments, and asked that any tributes at the funeral be not in flowers, but in the form of donations to the Red Cross (Alan Pryde has this in hand in respect of the tribute from the Association .)
Arthur Collison -
Como West, 2226 - D Company
R.L. Lusby - Died of
Illness, Burma Hospital 20/9/1943 – “F” Force John was our Robert's eldest brother. Some in the Battalion will remember Robert, as a member of the Sig. Platoon, was Runner for Sig. Platoon H.Q., and was wounded in the back of the neck on 11th Feb. 1942, as the Battalion was moving across Marsiling Road. His first Working Party for the Jap was "The Shrine Job" when he was at Mt. Pleasant and Caldecott Hill in No. 2 Company with Des Kearney. He went back to Selarang and then on "F" Force. Do You Remember? Arch Thorburn says- "Do you remember the occasions, when our hosts permitted us to send 25 word card to our families. We used to spend days working out, what we could condense in the way of news about ourselves into 25 words. It was important, or so I used to think - that the message should indicate that things were going well for us and that there was really no need for them to worry about us. While going through some of my personal papers lately, I came across a card, that I had sent to my late Mother - I was then single - and which she had received. It read "Physically fit, mentally alert, hobbies - legal lecturing and debating and making lasting friendships". There was a bit of poetic licence involved in the first two items. We had come back from the "Railway" and I weighed about 8 stone and really wasn't feeling awfully fit nor indeed mentally very alert. However I had done some legal lecturing at the Con. Depot under Capt. (as he was then) now Judge Adrian Curlewis, and I had done some debating. Some of you may remember when we debated against other Battalions and on one occasion, when we took on the Poms; but the really true part of the mess was "making lasting friendships", and this has certainly continued right up to the present day. I received a card from home, despatched on the day of the German capitulation, but considerably delayed "in the Post". It contained nothing more and nothing less than the words of the Doxology, "Praise God from Whom all blessing flow, etc" Next time you sing it count the words. It contains exactly 25. Arch Thorburn" Graham McLeod writes: “Each time "Makan" arrives, I'm impressed by one characteristic, that's common to every issue. What's this, you say? That we're a bunch of sentimentalists from way back. Is this wrong? Not from where I sit! Since the present doesn't seem to have much going for it, I enjoy remembering the past. I know I’m not alone since, what happens, when a bunch of us get together? In no time, it becomes a game of "Do you remember?" and within minutes we're young and strong again, as we relive those long-ago days. If I'm right about this..and there'll be trouble, if I am contradicted...it seems to me that we may be missing a trick. Every single one of us will have things in our think-boxes, which could be interesting to others, if only we'd get around to putting them on paper for the rest to enjoy. You doubt your ability to remember? You're selling yourself short! Let's consider what triggers recollection. In my case two things always work, these being music and old movies. Think back. What were the popular songs around those times, when the Battalion was formed? A few come to mind automatically Blue Orchids, Begin the Beguine, The Quartermaster's Store, Polka Dots and Moonbeams (On that record, an unknown Frank Sinatra was referred to as "Vocalist". Oh, Boy.). Remember, Down Argentine Way? Fools Rush in? Indian Summer? And how about that damned Nightingale, which kept everyone wide awake in Berkeley Square? They go on and on..... What about the film stars? Deanna Durbin. (Now, there was a real bird: Could sing a bit too) Mickey Rooney, (energy compensating for lack of inches). Judy Garland ( all eyes and talent). Errol Flynn, wowing us in the Dawn Patrol and in Dodge City, whilst Fred Astaire (the cad.) was now dancing with Eleanor Powell. (Whatever happened to Ginger Rogers? A bit puffed?) Gary Cooper was The Westerner and a bony Henry Fonda gangled his way through The Grapes of Wrath (Stark stuff!) and Spencer Tracey in Northwest Passage? And Alice Faye portraying a buxom Lillian Russell. And a character named Crosby teamed up with that Thanks-For-The-Memory Man, Bob Hope, to start all those Road to Someplace shows. (At this point, I've a beef. I saw plenty of sarongs but not one was filled by anyone remotely resembling Dorothy Lamour. How come? was I in the wrong P.O.W. camps? We had no one like that in Borneo, although there was one Chinese doll, working on the roads in Sandakan, to whom Ron Ollis took a fancy. He christened her "Luscious". Or was that "Lascivious? I can't remember.) Or are insects your memory stirrer?.... Remember those flies in Tamworth? And those bright green beetles, which stank so abominably, should one accidentally tread on them? And what of those twin engined Wasps in Malaya? And the Centipedes? The Scorpions? And the Rhino Beetles? And the leeches? How do you feel about grass seeds? The Bathurst type, which wormed their way through gaiters, socks, and, into our quivering flesh? Ah, they were the days! What's all this leading to? I'll elucidate. (Eh? Explain, you mutt!) It does not matter two hoots what system you may use to open those flood gates. Your's could be scents and perfumes.... Remember how we'd always know, when we were approaching a fishing village? The whiff of the drying sea life was sufficient to put a tank out of action. What about the drains of Johore Bahru? Now, that would take some tossing! But, whatever method works with you...and you...and you too, ... use it. Why? Because I'm convinced that in all of us there is golden material simply waiting to be mined. And, if this works, imagine how you'll be helping our Editor fill "Makan". He'll love you for it. "....So you really want to know about Borneo? Then I'll tell you. You see, we had this guard...Hell: He was ugly. We called him "Skull"....) Get the picture? You do? Then get out that pen and paper or get it out and ask your wife or one of the children to write down what comes to mind..........Graham McLeod." 2/29 Battalion - History
R.J. Christie (Bob)
- Malvern, Vic. 3144 Did the 2/30 Battalion complete a history on the same lines as the 2/19 Bn? I would be interested to hear. Regards, Bob Christie”. (Your scribe felt that the best way to help our Brigade mate was to lend them his copy of "Galleghan's Greyhounds", accordingly it has been sent down to Bob.) Return Thanks Nugent Geikie - Nugent writes, "On behalf of Rosemary and myself Thank you for your kind gesture and the attendance of so many of the Bn. at the Church. The flowers with their colours looked very proud. Sincerely, Nugent Geikie & Rosemary." Japanese Propaganda Story of Their Movement Down Malaya One extract of this story, a translation of a Jap Book picked up in New Guinea, and made available to us by "Blue" McDonald, appeared in "Makan" No. 250, a second part in No. 252, and this should have dealt with the landing on Singapore Island against 22nd Brigade on the West, against the British Divisions in the East, and against 27th Brigade around the Causeway. In one way you will be disappointed. The description of their crossing at the Causeway is a let down. There is no description of their fighting. Your scribe interprets this to mean that the fire of our rifle companies, the Vickers Guns of Carriers and 2/4 Machine Gun Bn., the Mortars and the Artillery caused a demoralisation of the attack. In the plan off operation it was set down, "In order to attack Singapore, orders were issued to prepare 1000 rounds of ammunition per gun. The railroads there quickly repaired and plans were made to send enough ammunitions for 1000 rounds per gun to the Johore Bahru Line before the beginning of the attack on Singapore (at one stage "300 guns" are mentioned and at another point "several hundreds" and later) - "What happened to the 1000 rounds per gun? First of all 400 rounds were fired into Singapore, before the crossing of the Strait, from the gun positions in Johore Bahru. 600 rounds per gun were left at the beginning of the advance into Singapore. 400 of the 600 were fired by the morning of the 15th leaving 200. The ammunition, which we thought was ever abundant was almost gone." As regards fighting men for the Jap operation, "All the trucks were to be taken back to Singora to meet the Groups which landed there.... (instead of being brought down by sea)..."Groups (which had been fighting their way down the Peninsula) "had already received considerable losses. (These other Groups) "were fresh crack forces and full of vigour. One part of the operation was changed. This plan called for the dissipation of (British) fighting strength with a concentrated attack in between."...(and 27th Brigade was in the "in between sector"). "On 31st Jan.... the fresh crack groups had already assembled in the vicinity of Kluang. The object of the deceiving movement against the British forces on Singapore was to make them think that the north-east sector of East Johore Bahru was our (Jap) main point of attack. A powerful defensive force was disposed in this area. (by the Brigade Division)...."inhabitants in the vicinity were ordered to withdraw outside of the line 20 miles to the north. No one but the Jap. Forces occupied the sector 20 miles (to the north)..."The left flank force (in the east) suddenly made a surprise attack landing on Pulau Ubin on the night of the 7th. Next the mountain guns crossed to Pulau Ubin and started a continual fire against Singapore Island. On the 8th the enemy (British) guns commenced to fire fiercely against our left flank area. The various Groups of the right flank force and the central force lost no time in undertakings strong co-ordinated landing operation across the Strait. The boats of the leading force were ready at the zero hour on the 9th. The first wave crossed furiously and succeeded magnificently. The second wave was also successful. Just when the third wave was about to begin the crossing, the enemy (Australian) positions commenced to concentrate their fire upon the crossing point. It was a sudden hail of gun fire. A continuous pillar of water rose from the Strait. (I'd say the third wave failed. Nothing further mentioned of it. Ed) "The courageous warriors of our landing forces, with white bands around their bodies, gradually closed in on the enemy (Australian) position through the concentrated fire of MGs and Mortars. Words cannot describe the glorious hand grenade and hand to hand fighting encountered in various places by these courageous warriors after destroying layer after layer of barbed wire entanglements during the moonlit dawn battle. The enemy defending the north-west sector of Singapore Island was a fresh crack AUSTRALIAN Group, who had arrived a week before. (X and Y Battalions???) They resisted tenaciously and having had no previous engagement with the Imperial forces on the Malaya Front, they developed hand to hand fighting at various places. (a tribute to 22nd Brigade.) (Now we come to the description of the Causeway Attack) The main body of the left flank (east) force, that landed at Pulau Ubin with the demonstration operation (feint) to simplify the Army operation, carefully moved towards the west after the successful landing of the right flank and central forces on the N.W. sector of Singapore Island. They crossed safely to the east side of the Causeway at 2245 hrs on the 9th and arrived safely at the south end of the Causeway Bridge in the dead of night to secure the Bridge. The enemy in this area planned to set fire to the heavy oil scattered all over the area to check our attack, but the unit that broke through the front line on the north bank, together with the various forces, that landed and attacked from the northwest sector encircled the enemy from the north." News, Views and Who's Who,
Des Gee - Moonee
Ponds, Vic. 3039 - HQ Company It sounds like a great idea to have a grand reunion at Tamworth and now that we have so few reasons to stay at home I am sure that I could persuade my wife, Shirley to make such a pleasant trip, bringing our golf clubs, of course. Probably we would make the trip with a caravan and spend a few days in the area, which, at that time of the year, should be most pleasant. All the best to All, Yours, Des Gee". Bob Howells - Tusmore, South Aus. 5065 - HQ Company Bob relates, "Life over here in "Adelud", as the Establishment calls it, proceeds at much the same pace notwithstanding the Bank of Adelaide/P.C.A. trauma, the dramatic exit of "Donnie Babe", the eclipse of Corcoran and the rise of White Knight Tonkin. It's a city of great charm, tree-lined streets, easy access, vast open parklands beyond any I know anywhere in the World and, once you learn the way of it, very genuinely friendly people. (I agree with that, Bob, from my meeting many at the Scout/Jamboree end 1973/Jan '74. A.D.) My own business involvement has contracted somewhat, over recent time, but I still lay claim to the status of "semi retired" rather than being fully out in the green green pasture of somnolence and rust-gathering inactivity. As for spare time, well, there isn't any. We occupy a fairly large piece of territory and, at first glance, when we first moved in, I was silly enough to think that a touch here and there would do the trick. Later reflection led to the purchase of a concrete mixer and all that the simple little acquisition entailed in the way of rock gardens, paving, Besser block walling, slate patios and more. It was only after I had done a couple of joint ventures with my neighbours, which involved removing dividing front fences and running three gardens into one with parklike results, that Nancy threatened to have me certified. As of now I grow the World's worst orchids, have many, but no prize winners; - roses; produce indifferent vegetables at three times retail cost; add to this about 24 dozen spring annuals. and the whole thing is a roaring success, depending upon how you spell the word "roaring" and how self delusive you want to be over the word "Success". I am happy to say that through "Makan" I discovered that Cec Plews lived over here and, after persistent efforts on the part of both of us, we finally got together over a very enjoyable lunch. Naturally, with the assistance of a goodly quantity of claret and a couple of mellowing ports, we refought the Gemas action and plan to do it again - the lunch and the claret if not the action. Going further afield, many in the Battalion, and particularly those, who were based on Thomson Road, will remember Woo Weng Kay, then a youthful cigarette vendor, who had lost both parents and senior brothers as a result of a Japanese comb out of leading Chinese personalities. At great risk to himself, of which he was well aware, he became our news carrier between camps and later, luckily survived a work force in Sumatra. Among others I gave him a well-earned reference and he worked for the War Dept. for twenty years until the British quit Singapore. He always kept in touch. He wrote, some months ago, saying that he had been retrenched from the position of purchasing officer with a contracting company and seeking assistance with endeavours to obtain another job. His former employer had been associated with quarrying operations in Indonesia. It had wound those operations down, so he became redundant. His last letter advised that he had decided to set up his own shingle and was accompanied by his new business card, in which he described himself a "Winky Industrial and Trading Co." - machineries, general construction equipment, ships chandler and general hardware. I have his address, if anyone has contacts, which might prove of assistance, more fruitful than that, which I have sought to find. Well the watering system in the garden calls; at some control points it looks like Boiler Room B of the "Queen Mary" and anyway I'm just about due for my mid-day beer and quite exhausted by this enormous effort. With kindest regards to one and all, Sincerely, Robert." (Your scribe has passed on the appeal on behalf of Woo Weng Kay to a couple of members of the Battalion. Is there anyone, who has contacts in Singapore, who may be able to help? If so, I have a list of parties over there contacted already. Ed.)
Charlie Collyer -
Dubbo, 2830 - HQ Company, A/A Platoon Family-wise he has one daughter and three grand children. I have again applied for a T.P.I. Pension for him." (On receipt of Beatrice's letter your scribe paid a visit to Westmead, to find that that day Charlie had been transferred to Parramatta Hospital, where contact was made with him, Jack Maclay and Ray Rickards also looked him up, before he was discharged back home. Ed.)
Padre "Paddy" Walsh
- Rockhampton, 4700 Best wishes and regards to all the Boys and their families and sympathy to those families, who have lost dear ones recently. Padre Walsh."
Don Schumacher -
Birmingham Gardens, 2287 - D Company He wishes all the Boys the best of health, Monica."
Mrs. Barbara Taylor
- Claremont, 6010, West. Aus. (Wife of Capt. John) Last March I sold my house and moved into a Unit. I went to England in August - Penelope, our daughter, has lived there for a few years and has been running a restaurant – doing all the cooking and working really hard. She married on August 30th in London an Englishman, whom we love. They had been here to Perth early in 1978 for 4 weeks. She is very like John. I was over for the wedding and decided to stay on for Christmas, which was very cold, and arrived back in Perth on December 29th. Ian, our son, is very much better now. He has had Hodgkin's Disease for 5 or 6 years - still goes for check-ups, but appears to be cured. He works for the National Film Theatre of Australia, and is in charge of their small section in Western Australia. Yours sincerely, Barbara Taylor."
Reg Nossiter -
Eastwood, 2122 - B Company
Ray Duncombe -
Balmain, 2041 - HQ Company Not moving around too much, Ray has been occupying his time reading and borrows three books a week from the library. It is a few years now since Ray joined the venerable gentlemen of three score years and ten, so that he has many a tale to tell of his younger days. As it was compulsory in chose days, to have to enrol in the Citizen Forces, Ray had some varied training at Lancer Barracks, Parramatta; with the Training at Haberfield Drill Hall; he was also living in Armidale at one stage and there he was in Lancers, who spent some of their training days at Coffs Harbour; his search for a job led to him taking a job on the buses in June 1938. He was in the militia having a 14 day camp at Woonana, when War broke out. Many, who could, enlisted straightaway. Ray was with the buses still in Jan '41, when he received his papers calling him up. Since he had a fair knowledge of all the ropes, he soon surmounted all the red tape. The time at which he was to report to Victoria Barracks was 10.30 am, and he was in Bathurst camp at 1.30 in the morning next day. The total of Ray's Army Service was but 33 days short of him getting the E.M.
Tom Hellmrich -
Manly, 2095 - B Company With Best Wishes to all, Sincerely, Tom Hellmrich."
Bert Carter –
Killara, 2071 - B Company
Des Duffy -
Brighton-Le-Sands, 2216 - B Company Des has to have 24 hours a day treatment now. I see him often and get him home now and again for a few hours in a wheelchair, but it will be impossible for him to come home again, as the doctor says that looking after him all the years is what put me in hospital. Hope that folk are well, Yours sincerely, Ivy Duffy.” Your scribe and Des both went to Sydney Boys High School and a few paragraphs about him in the Old Boys' Union's Notes are of topical interest. "The medals for the first Australian decorated for an action against the Japanese in World War 2 have been given to the Victoria Barracks Museum, Sydney. " Colonel D.J. Duffy won the Military Cross as a captain in Malaya in 1942 for his command of a successful ambush against the Japanese at the Gemencheh River bridge. He was the Officer Commanding B Company of the 2/30 Bn. 8 Division, 2nd A.I.F. The full set of medals is the Military Cross, 1939-45 Star, Pacific Star, War Medal, Australian Service Medal, Coronation Medal and Efficiency Decoration. They were presented to the Museum by his wife, Mrs Ivy Duffy, of Brighton-le-Sands. Colonel Duffy, retired in 1959 as a staff officer at Victoria Barracks."
Tom F. ("Hank")
Massey - Merrylands, 2160 – HQ
W. (Tiger) Sylvester
- Belmore, 2192 - B Company Yours, W. (Tiger) Sylvester & Eileen Sylvester."
Alan Penfold -
Manly, 2095 – Bn. HQ, I Section
Mrs Hazel Parkes -
Kogarah, 2217 - Wife Of Ernie
Kel Anderson -
Dubbo, 2830 - C Company My youngest daughter, Sharon, was married on 17th January so we have only Cheryl home now, and we do miss Sharon. I ran into Carl Rope at Randwick the other day. He looked well. I hope the rest of the fellows are keeping well. I am including a cheque for Life Membership and also a covering fee for "Makan" and Badge. Regards, Kel."
Russ Perkins –
Westmead, 2145 - B Company My wife, Karon, I'm glad to relate, also is enjoying good health and keeps busy in the home and garden. Apart from early morning riding in Parramatta Park, I am surrounded by aged friends, who require daily assistance and it gives me great pleasure to be able to help them. On 8/2/80 our only daughter, Susan, left on a Russian ship, “Taras Chevshenko" for Europe. The booking was made some months prior to the invasion of Afghanistan, and has been a constant worry since. We will be glad, when we know that she will have arrived at Southampton U.K. about 16th March. My kind regards to all the Association workers and Members, especially "B" Company. Yours in haste, Russ Perkins."
Ray Simmons -
Bexley, 2207 - Bn. HQ Concord sent me to Prince Alfred for a nuclear scan, but that did not show anything. After the operation they sent me back to Prince Alfred for another scan, still negative, but the Superintendent was not satisfied and I had to undergo a 10 min. test on the kidneys, the agony of which was unbelievable and I will never forget. However this test was also negative and I was discharged the following day, but as I was not A1, I went to the local MD, who informed me that I was bleeding internally, but as I was in the hospital for 10 days, I'd like to know, why did not the medical team in Concord find that out? I had the pleasure of a visit from George White - there is no doubt about him. He's full of humour and had me in fits with his jokes and we had about 20 mins. together - he's good company at any time, but as good as any medicine, when one is down with an illness. Hope I am fit and well enough to go to Tamworth for the 40th Reunion. I do so much enjoy the company and companionship of the "Boys". There's no doubt about them, they were and still are a fine lot of chaps. Yours sincerely, Ray."
Clair Pluis -
Parkes, 2870 My kind regard to all and my very Best Wishes for 1980. Yours very sincerely, Claire Pluis."
Vernon Baynes
-Edgecliff, 2027 - D Company
E.E. ("Jock")
McDougall – Mosman, 2088 - C Company Both Jacquie and I are in fairly good health and so are all the family. Jennifer is still in England and as her husband, Robin, has now become head tutor at Sandhurst, she takes half an hour longer to commute to London University, where she is still doing research work on lung tissue and also teaching pathology to young English medicos. Jeffery is now in Sydney and is about to become Manager of "Trent" driving school, while Ian is busy on the plans and internal offices of the Qantas building in town. They are all doing well and are in good health, which after all is the main thing. Kindest Regards to All, "Jock" McDougall."
Jack Conn - Port
Macquarie, 2444 - HQ Company I was very pleased about a fortnight or so ago to have the opportunity to enjoy a grand old natter to Nan and Frank Moore, when they were in the area visiting their daughter and I do hope that any of the boys, who happen to be visiting in the area, will drop in and say Hello. If they can't find us, a ring will always bring me to them to show the way. We would love to see them anytime. My son, Christopher, and I went to Coonabarabran last weekend (my old home town) to a niece's wedding and really had a marvellous time renewing acquaintances etc. A 640 odd miles round trip, as we came back via the Hunter Valley to Newcastle to say hello to some of his mates. We found the country side very dry in most areas, as it is here. The enclosed is for subs - plus a donation to the good work you chaps are doing with "Makan" (my whole family look forward to its arrival). Please give my regards to any of the Boys, whom you run into and God Bless you All. Yours very sincerely, Jack Conn."
Helen L. Bell -
South Tamworth, 2340 - Mother of Wally (Mark 1) - A Company
Allan S. Venn -
Murwillumbah, 2484 - HQ Company My family are going along O.K. My Eldest son, born while I was in Malaya, in the November after we arrived, is here in Murwillumbah, doing well with Ford Sales; my daughter is married and living in Wagga Wagga; the younger son is Manager of the C.B.C. Bank, Warwick, Queensland. We visited him recently for his 36th Birthday. Mollie and I are going along at our usual steady pace and not doing any more than an occasional game of Bowls. We're looking forward, providing the health is good enough, to make Tamworth in November and if possible, take Tom and Norma grant with us. My regards please to All Members, Yours sincerely, Allan."
Stop Press - Stop
Press - Stop Press - Sad News Received
Les Hemming -
Yagoona, 2199 - HQ Company We have joined the Grandparents Club. Our daughter, Lois, and husband, Garry, are the proud parents of a baby daughter, Karen Leigh, now almost eight months old. She is sitting up, growing fast and a joy to us all. Brian has just finished a couple of years with the "Yellow Pages People", while Kevin is presently working with David Jones. Les and the two sons are all interested in photography. Me, I am chief critic. We had to put Les' Mum in a Nursing Home. She is almost 94 years of age and nearly blind, but still battles on. We are sorry that we didn't make it to the Gemas Commemoration, but hope to see all next time. Yours sincerely, Dorothy Hemming.”
Clarrie Burgess –
Redfern, 2016 A very poor attendance, which was made up of the following:- Mr. Pat Roach of the T.B. & S.S. & AIRMAN's Association and his wife; Mrs. Stella Connelly; Mrs. Mollie Rohr of the WAR WIDOWS' GUILD; Miss Lorking representing SIR COLIN HINES; Col. Jiles of the ARMY H.Q., his wife and 3 children; Captain York, R.A.Navy, his wife and 5 sons and, of course, old Clarrie Burgess of the 2/30 Battalion. Mr. and Mrs Roach performed the honours in introducing us to each other. Four rows of Pews were set aside. The Priest gave a very quiet and nice Message for the Departed and for Loved ones after all their years of suffering. I was quite disappointed with the Roll Call, but that's how she goes. (No one at all has reported on St. Andrews. Ed.). All the Best. All O.K. here. Regards to all, Clarrie Burgess." Lismore Reunion - 16/2/80 The usual Barbeque of 2/30 Bn. of this weekend was held at Kyogle this year at Artie Power's Home. Vern Toose, Speaker on the Sat. evening. (“Sluggo” Jones & Kevin Ward Q'ld & Sydney)
George Gough -
Cabramatta, 2166 - Bn. HQ
Eric ("Curly")
Wright – Smithfield, 2164 - Bn. HQ 1979 was a bad year for us. I was in and out of hospital and then we lost our only son, who had been wonderful to us. He was only 4½ years old, when Curly enlisted. He left 3 lovely children. We also have a daughter. She is married and has three children; between the two families we have 3 girls and 3 boys as our grandchildren; they come to see "Pop", as they call him, quite often. Eric was in Repat. Hospital for 4 weeks and then they sent him to Lady Davidson. His nerves are terrible and he tries hard to walk and use his arm, but it seems useless. Yours faithfully, Olive Wright.” (A look at the Metrop. Road Directory showed that Vince Leonard or Ray Rickards might be the closest. Kevin Ward was alerted and a report came that Curly's movements were very restricted, and that it took him some minutes to even walk across a room. We are to keep in touch. Ed.)
Frank (Blue)
McDonald - Bankstown, 2200 - B Company
George Ramsay –
Epping, 2121 She also says that he can make himself understood and he understands their conversation, excepting on odd occasions. One of their nearby neighbours, Mrs. Eileen Brown, usually goes up with Chubby, when she is visiting George during the week at the "Greenwood Nursing Homes", Normanhurst and, after "Makan", has been delivered, Mrs. Brown reads the news to him. She makes certain that he knows, who it is, about whom she is reading, by asking him does he remember him, or them before she commences each letter.
Dick Henderson -
Helidon, Q'ld. 4344 - B Company I wonder, if you know, if I could get some of the snaps George Aspinall took on the Bn. Group Tour last year? - (I have mentioned this to George, and I'm sure that we will be able to find a way for you to view them, to let you make a choice. Ed)
Bob Surtees -
Greenacre, 2120 - C Company My model galleon is coming along well, the hull is three parts finished, I displayed the model on 23rd May and raised over $360 for Missions. (Members may remember that a brief mention was made of this activity of Bob's in an earlier "Makan" since when your scribe has seen a drawing of the ship and some of the parts, which were so well shaped to scale, that one could be excused for wondering how it is Bob could make them with his double vision. It will be a work of art when completed. Ed.) I look forward to seeing you; Regards to All. Bob Surtees.”
Les Parfrey -
Deniliquin, 2710 - D Company Best wishes to all his mates, Yours sincerely, Joyce Parfrey.”
Max Pyle - Berrigan,
2712 - D Company Joan and I, Sue, Graeme and Rick are all very well. Sue is married, living at Chelsea, just out of Melbourne. She works for the A.B.C. Graeme and Rick are not married and work on our farms here at Berrigan. We are enjoying the upturn in rural returns of the last few years. I am most fortunate to be able to put in a fair day's work, which I enjoy, without much trouble, even with daylight saving. Though the return of sane time is most welcome. Why must they fiddle with the clock? I guess the fear most prominent in my mind is shared by all others with young sons - that they too might be called upon to serve. Let's hope sanity will prevail and that all will be well. Keith Mulholland keeps me well informed on Battalion matters.. At the time of writing I understand Jock Logan is due to have an operation tomorrow in Brisbane. Keith is going to keep me informed on Jock's progress per favour of Norm King. Jock's report on his recent trip was excellent I thought, in fact our "trippers" all seem to favour us with interesting reports. I have promised myself that I should go to the Anzac Day service in Sydney for the last few years, but have failed to do so to date. Perhaps 1980 will be the year - the boys are a great help to me now and things are getting a bit easier - we harvest our summer crop in late April-May, so it's a very busy time, especially as it coincides with planting wheat. That's all for now. My kindest regards to all the Boys, Yours sincerely, Max Pyle."
Frank Rampling -
Randwick, 2031 - HQ Company Yours faithfully, Frank."
Lyell Powys - Taree,
2430 - HQ Company
Bob Dickson - New
Lambton, 2305 - HQ Company My last visit to Concord was in May last year. After returning home Concord sent a copy of my file up to Mater Misericordiae here in Newcastle and a Dr. Pam Harrison arranged to see me at Waratah Hospital Out-Patients' Clinic in June and every month since for further blood transfusions each time. I only remain in Hospital 4 to 5 days, depending on the supply of blood required, a rare type RhO Negative, which is in very short supply. I am lucky, as I am able to bath myself. However, I am not allowed outside the house except to travel either by Ambulance or Taxi. My wife is not in the best of health due to Paget's Disease, which resulted from a fall, so that she has to have twice daily injections from the District Sister, who calls each day, still in other ways we are both lucky that we manage to look after ourselves fairly well. This letter is the hardest thing that I have tackled in quite a while, as I am all cramped up in the hands these days, but I look forward to receiving my copy of "Makan" each time it arrives, so here's a small cheque to cover my fees this year and a small donation to the Malayan Nursing Scholarship. Wishing everyone a Bright and Prosperous Year, Yours sincerely, Bob Dickson."
Ray Donald - Glen
Innes, 2370 - B Company Ray is troubled by asthma; spondylitis takes its toll and he has a very bad stomach ulcer. Ray was promised treatment for those Strongyloides worm by the Repat. however the treatment has not arrived at his Doctor’s surgery as yet. He had a bad winter last year and lost 3 stone. However he has now recovered and is eating again with the result that he looks better. My own biggest problem is Diabetes. However I'm being a good girl, I have lost 12 lb (the hard way) starving to death! It is very dry here and everybody needs rain badly. Usually there is a good rainfall at Glen Innes. Ray has a good hobby. He loves doing up old guns and has a steady stream of visitors because of it. Of course to, he would like to see any of the boys, if passing through. He often picks up the 2/30 History to delve in it. Regards, Jean Donald."
"Cappy" Bligh -
Vaucluse, 2030 - HQ Company
John Boss - Hunter's
Hill, 2110 - A Company Good Luck and all the best to All. John Boss."
Dick Tompson -
Howrah, 7018 - HQ Company Incidentally, I gave the Tribunal a copy of Fred Bladwell's Newspaper article, (Makan No. 250). I am sure that they were impressed but, while they said it was good general information, they wanted a certificate relating to me personally. Nothing much to report otherwise. Kind regards to All. Dick Tompson."
Jim Walshe - St.
Ives, 2075 - HQ Company We hope to go off on a short motoring holiday mid March but it looks as if we may have to put it off, because of the petrol strike (We trust that you did get away. Ed.) Our best wishes to All and hope to see folk as usual on Anzac Day. Sincerely yours, Jim Walshe."
Tommy Yates - West
Ryde, 2114 - B Company Tommy has joined the "Makan" Team. He came along with Jack Maclay and Ray Rickards and, as Jack had been in his section in 12 Platoon, they worked together on the envelopes and covers and had plenty to talk about.
Lyn Booth -
Turramurra, 2074 - A Company We were, however, most impressed with Hilo and the Big Island (Hawaii). Neither of us are breaking our necks to return. I am enclosing a Photostat copy of the Souvenir Paper which was produced on the J.V.O. on our voyage to Malaya, and which I obtained in a round-a-bout way through Gunner George E. Rawlings, who was on the voyage. It will no doubt hold some memories for our Members - some of whom figure in the contributions. Hope to be present at the Annual General Meeting on the 11th April and if not then on Anzac Day. Kind regards to All. Lyn Booth."
Harold French –
Walcha, 2354 - A Company You may notice that I have changed my address as above. Gwen and I and the Family are well at the time of writing. My youngest daughter is running for "Queen of Hearts" for Walcha from this month till October. Well not much news, mates, 'bye for now, trusting all is well with you and yours, I remain, Yours sincerely, H.J. French"
Jack Wilson -
Rocklea, 4106 - D Company Jock Logan is in Greenslopes again. He tells me that he had a stroke. He does not look too bad, he eats well, but his legs have suffered. I was talking to J. Mullins, one of the 2/15 Artillery, who lives at Sandgate, Brisbane. He was put into Pudu Gaol at Kuala Lumpur and remembers "Jacko" Sams and him dying at that Gaol and Billy Pankhurst. (There you are Bill, with his address there is another to contact. A.D.) Bill Newman's address now is Mermaid Waters, Gold Coast, 4218. (I think that this might be R.J. otherwise "Dick". Ed.) Good Health and God Bless the Old Gang, Cheerio, Jack Wilson. "
Lady Galleghan -
Cremorne, 2090
Horrie Cody -
Bomaderry, 2540 - A Company Ron, Alan and Horrie are planning to be up for the Anzac Day. Horrie, of course, is hoping that he will be well enough to go. We have had some good rain down here over the last few days. With Kind Regards to All, from Zelma.”
Clyde Blencowe –
Tumbarumba, 2653 - D Company
Noel Johnston -
Northbridge, 2063 I thought that the Boys, who were over there just 12 months previously, in particular, would like to "live over again" their own joyous welcome, which they received from our good friends Tan Sri Dato Mubin Sheppard, Major Syed Marguki, Talib bin Haji Yahaya, and the other great fellows of the Ex-Servicemen's Association of Malaysia. Although I had written to Mubin Sheppard and Major Marguki, in order to tell them that I would be calling on them on the day that the ship would be in Port Kelang, and I also knew that Ron Maston had let them know that I was coming, I was hardly prepared for the great welcome and V.I.P. treatment, which they tendered Janet and myself. Hardly had the ship tied up at 8.30 am that morning, but I found Mubin, Syed Karguki and Talib in a group to welcome us and take us by car to K.L. Our special driver was Azmi, who looked after our transport for the rest of the day, until we arrived back at the ship in the afternoon. First of all to the Wisma Palawan (The H.Q.) of E.S.A.M. where a representative party pf about 15 were gathered to join morning tea, already spread on a lovely lace tablecloth, with several of their "widows" standing by to attend to us. There was nothing stiff or formal about the gathering, and the cordiality and friendliness of that gathering was most marked. I am sure that the warm hearted feelings Janet and I enjoyed in that air of good fellowship would be recalled by those, who were in Ron Maston's Party the previous January. Nevertheless I was not prepared for the overwhelming surprise, which I received at the end of the "cuppa". Janet later admitted that, she had whispered to one of our hosts, that it was my birthday, but I was flabbergasted, when they all sang "Happy Birthday" to me, the more so when Major Karguki, as the President of E.S.A.M., then presented me with a handsome casket containing the shield/badge of their Association (in coloured enamel on metal). It had a brass plate on it, the inscription reading, "Colonel and Mrs. Noel Johnston, sweet memories of your visit to Kuala Lumpur, 10th January 1980". It was a rather excited "me" who stood up to respond to this gesture of goodwill and I emphasized the great warmth, that had sprung up in the 2/30 Bn. Association following the impressive welcome and hospitality, which they had extended to Ron Maston's Party 12 months previously. Words of thanks to their presentation to me hardly seemed adequate, so I thereupon promised that I would make a reciprocal gift to the E.S.A.M. of a shield/badge of the 2/30 Aust. Inf. Bn. (No such thing has yet been produced, but, since my return, I have initiated some action thereop and will soon have a plan to put to the Executive of the Association). Morning tea over, Janet and I were taken to the National Museum and spent an interesting hour there, before going on to the Holiday Inn to receive more hospitality there (lunch) with Mubin Sheppard, Syed Marzuki, Talib, Lt. Col. Harmid Ibrahim (Malay Regiment) and about a dozen other delightful chaps. Altogether it was a beautiful lunch of Malayan foods and cordial fellowship. My sole regret was that I could not remember the names of all the good fellows, who were there, (an ancient Malady of mine, I hear you say). Then it was farewell time and a restful drive back to the ship at Port Kelart; (about 30 Kilos), but not before our driver, Azmi, had taken a short diversion to show us the town of Klang, where he had his own residence. I look back on a truly memorable day, wherein Janet and I were the recipients of a wonderful welcome from true friends, whom we had never seen in the flesh before, but, who extended themselves to treat us as "special friends" of theirs merely because we came from Australia and were a part of the 2/30 Bn. A.I.F. Association. The whole point of this story is that indeed a special bond of mateship and goodwill has been established between our 2/30 Bn A.I.F. Association and the Ex-Servicemen's Association of Malaysia (and its affiliated Associations). This bond is already being treated as "special" in Malaysia, and must be treated similarly in Australia, whenever the opportunity arises. Sincerely yours, Noel Johnston."
Frank Silver -
Coalcliff, 2515 -C Company Yours sincerely, Frank Silver"
Tom Grant -
Murwillumbah, 2484 - C Company
Alf Austin -
Milson's Point - A Company
Harry Teasdale -
Lismore, 2480 - D Company A few days earlier we had heard the exciting news that we were grandparents. On 2nd March Max and Lyn had a daughter. Her name is to be Fiona Eileen. We will be looking forward to seeing her sometime in April. Harry is keeping an well as possible. Our regards to One and All, who read "Makan", Yours sincerely, Flo and Harry Teasdale."
Les Southwell -
Bateman's Bay 2536 - A Company He enjoys his bowls and is always busy, whether bowling or administration occupies his time. We have just returned from our annual sojourn overseas. This time we visited Bali, Indonesia, Singapore (which we like very much), then our trip took us to Sarawak, Brunei and Borneo. We were the only tourists on the trip. We had a lovely time; were looked after like royalty and certainly saw towns and villages that we never knew existed. Kindest regards to All. Althea Southwell."
Don MacIver -
Blacktown, 2148 - HQ Company Being out here at Blacktown, often the first news I get of anything happening is what I read in "Makan". I was sorry to hear about "Sandy" Christensen, and to know that "Snowy" Stevens had been in hospital. Please give my regards to All the Boys. Yours sincerely Don MacIver."
Ted Taig -
Moorabbin, Vic. 3189 - A Company I am enclosing my cheque for a Life Membership and do hope in the near future to meet you all, when my wife and I come to Sydney. My kind regards to All, especially to Gordon Campbell. Yours faithfully, E.R. Taig."
Alan Pryde -
Cremorne Point, 2090 - Bn HQ
Sid Grounds -
Carlton, 2218 - A Company As you can see from his nickname, he is a short fellow even shorter than I am. Anyhow, he and I were the last two through the swamp at Ayer Hitam, and the reason, that we were last, was that our legs were too short, so we stuck in the mud and the longer-legged fellows just ran past us. (All investigations have not been completed, Sid, but it seems that "Shorty" is Keith Williams, who came from Tregeagle up near Lismore. His people had a farm there. He was one of 3 brothers and the other two boys were killed in the war, Ernie Stratford reported in 1977 that he had run into Keith, who, at that time, was living and working in Brisbane and, when seen by Ernie, was down in the Lismore Area to see his Mother. Ross Madden provided this answer and the search, which he undertook roused a few queries from him, see below. A.D.) Sid's letter continues, "I see in the "Makan" that Tom Grant is a grandfather. I can only remember him as a ruddy cheeked country boy. He was a good kid, as were all of 14 Platoon. My son, John, is working in Western Australia at present as a water resources engineer and is very happy in his job, like me - "happy in the service". Next May he leaves on a trip to Israel, Austria, Germany, England, Ireland and U.S.A. While in America he will be doing work for his firm, they pay there. I was up to see Bob Wells just before Christmas. They were all working hard up there and keeping well. Best Wishes and above all Good Health to the Members of the Battalion from your old mate, Sid Grounds."
Ross Madden -
Armidale, 2359 - A Company On Page 5 of "Makan" Dec ‘66 is a plate of "A" Company Rugby League Team. As printed there were two blanks in the names, but I notice that I have filled in (Front Row) - Kevin Dowling and (Standing) Ned Williams? "Could be F.E.". Now to "Snow Williams". I think that he was a short sandy haired fellow, up in years at the time and came from Lithgow or around that area. Where and when he joined the Bn. I cannot say for sure, but I keep thinking that it was just before we left Bathurst, in that last big draft, and I cannot recall him as a P.O.W. (Stan Arneil agrees with him being older than most, saying he was a 1st World War soldier. The Nominal Roll shows that he must have put his age back 20 years or so to enlist since it shows there as "30/10/1916". He was "G.F. Williams" He was married and his wife was living at Muswellbrook after the Unit sailed. He was in the "Great War" according to a listing made on 4th Jun '42; went up on "The Railway" with "H" Force and died at Kanu No. 2. Ed.) The man, whom I recall with the Nickname of "Shorty" was "Shorty" McKinnon, who, I think, came from up Woodburn - Lismore Area, although not heard of for some time. (Sid Grounds says that he knew "Shorty" McKinnon quite well and that he was not the "Shorty" Williams he was thinking of). Re "Shorty" McKinnon, Nominal Roll shows that his father's address as N.O.K. was given as c/- Crittenden Bros., Casino NC. So you're right there Ross. He’s apparently one of those of whom we have lost trace. In one of the early "Makan" 1950, it said; "Shorty McKinnon of “A” Company is also working at Cockatoo Dock, where Hughie Fraser worked, but he's a step ahead of Hughie and is a1ready married." Ed.) Has anyone come in contact with:- Tommy Williamson, and "Bully", Frank Hayes, both of "A" Company, Jack Tomsett, D Company, "Curly", L.B. Gill, C Company or "Dick" R.R. Newman, D Company. (re the last, see Jack Wilson's letter on page 34 , Ross. I think that the chap, Jack refers to as "Bill", is the one you want. Ed.) I have not seen any of the locals here in Armidale for some time, except for Reg Millner, one of whose relatives asked me to have a talk to him. He has seen a different doctor now and has got some satisfaction, and that doctor wants to keep checking him for the next three months, whilst Reg keeps on at his work. He's not old enough for a Service Pension. But Reg will be 58 come early April, and, if his doctor thinks that he is "burnt-out", he has not to wait till he is 60, to claim the Service Pension. October 1979 "Reveille", on page 5, "Private Pensions" Page at the top of Column 3 states, "I would point out however, that a veteran is eligible at any time to apply for a service pension on the ground of his permanent unemployability. This is defined in section 23 of the Repatriation Act as being "permanently incapable, by reason of physical or mental disablement, of being employed in a remunerative occupation, in which, in the opinion of the Commission, he can reasonably be expected to obtain regular employment." I would imagine that the new Doctor may be working on this aspect, but it may be worthwhile if Reg. were to check with him, Ross. Ed.) The phone rang on Tuesday morning and who should it be calling but "Joe" Johnston and his mate was Harry Riches. They are on tour, going out west and down south, turning for home up the coast. It was very good to see them and both looked very well. The saddest part of the news that they brought was to hear that Jock Logan was in Hospital. The Maddens are as well as can be expected, considering all things. Elizabeth is not too bad, she had to have her eye stitched a month or so back, because of an ulcer, and it is part of the treatment to do this, she is progressing quite well. We have the Domiciliary Nurses call two days a week and this makes work a little easier, while it is also someone different to whom we may talk. When Helen comes up from Yarrowitch, east of Walcha on the Oxley Highway, with her two villains, the place soon livens up. One is 5 and the other is 3½. Still and all they are good kids. Judith is married; she has no family; lives at North Belmont and works in the Hamilton Branch of the ANZ Bank. She has just completed ten years service with the Bank. We had a visit from Vince O'Reilly and Gwen just before Christmas. I don't know whether you will agree, but I think what I have to say next maybe worth a mention, even if only as a tip to some of the folk. Up here, where the Council gives a cut on the rates to a Pensioner, the Pensioner must produce the Pensioner Health Benefits Card. This also applies to a Driver's Licence. A War Widow, whom I know, was refused a licence, she had, apparently produced her Personal Treatment Card and they told her that that did not entitle her to reductions with the Licence. I asked her did she try her Pensioner Health Benefits Card? She said she had not, but would try again. I have not seen her since, so I don't know how she fared. All the Best and Regards to All. Yours sincerely, Ross Madden."
“Ian” Pryce -
Wahroonga, 2076 - D Company
Monica Folkard -
West Wyalong, 2671 - HQ Company This is really a very busy town - we have eight motels, a big Services and Citizens' Club, Golfing Club and Bowls Club. Our City friends ask us what we do to fill in time in the country, but our main trouble is finding a night to stay home. There are something like 80 different organisations in the District, so no one need be lonely here. Thank you for sending me “Makan” and also for the copy of “Galleghan's Greyhounds”. (Jack was one of the first to pay for his copy of the reprint, Monica, so you are in the clear there. You do not have to pay for “Makan”, but we are very grateful for your donation. Thank you. A.D.) Best wishes to All. Yours sincerely, Monica Folkard.”
George Stephenson -
Mollymook, 2539 - HQ Company We had a visitor from Canberra here at Ulladulla. He & his wife, Heather, stayed here for about 3 weeks at that town. He was S.R. ("Bill") Desmet (Band). We had a few games of Bowls and a few drinks at the Mollymook Bowling Club and also another few drinks, when we were joined by Arnie Ainsworth and Joan, his wife. Unfortunately Flo could not join us on that occasion, but the four of them had an afternoon here with Flo and me, a very enjoyable gathering. Flo, although unable to travel around enjoys conversing with people, and I think that I made a hit as Bar Steward. Flo and I wish the Association continued success. Best Wishes to All, Flo and George.”
Bert Farr -
Turramurra, 2074 - HQ Company
Fred Johnston -
Epping, 2121 - B Company The Firm was to have given him a Retirement Dinner on 11th April, same night as our Bn Annual Meeting, but their venue was booked for that night, so Fred's Dinner will be on the 9th April and he will be at our Annual Meeting.
E.E. ("Curly")
Heckendorf - Lockhart, 2656 – Bn HQ
Les Melrose -
Matraville, 2036 - HQ Company His younger son, Warwick, is still keen on his Rugby Union and is in training with Randwick 1st Team. His eldest son has bought a home at Banksia and already he has been doing some concreting work with changes to adapt the house better for the family, as he has three youngsters to be considered.
Ron Ollis – Hawk’s
Nest, 2324 - HQ Company I have enjoyed seeing a few of our "Old Boys", who have popped in during their travels and it would always be nice to see any others, should they be in the vicinity. Many thanks to the team for serving us so well with Makan, but it's sad the way our Causality List is accelerating. I hope to see folk on Anzac Day, but, as it will be a long weekend this year, I may have an invasion from Sydney. My very Best Wishes to All, Ren Ollis."
Jack Fell -
Cessnock, 2325 - B Company I have had a very hectic few days, commencing last Tuesday and culminating yesterday, when I drove Jack Maclay to the train at Maitland. On Tuesday afternoon, the Newcastle Greenkeepers Association put on a Bowls Afternoon to mark my retirement. Greenkeepers from Newcastle, Quirindi, Muswellbrook, Port Macquarie, and Sydney was fit to travel to our Club to take part in this day. At the conclusion of the day I was presented with a Digital clock radio by the Newcastle Greenkeepers, and the N.S.W. Greenkeepers Association presented me with a cheque. On Wednesday, our Ladies Bowling Club made me a presentation at afternoon tea. On Friday the retired bowlers had a Bowls Afternoon, after which they presented me with a bowls hat. Thursday morning I went to Maitland to meet Jack Maclay who spent the weekend with us. Saturday morning it was in to Newcastle to meet Kevin and Dorothy Ward. By the time I returned, Curly and Beatrice Hardman had arrived. Then it was up to a friends place to pick up a couple of spare beds, and this time, when I returned, Jack and Una Clune had arrived from Taree. During the course of the afternoon, while we were all gathered on the back porch, enjoying a few cold tinnies, Gordon and Nancy McKnight turned up. About 6.30 pm we adjourned to the Bowling Club, where we were to have a party with about 70 guests. Various speakers said so many nice things about us that I was beginning to feel embarrassed. On behalf of the Club Staff and guests I was presented a set of 3 travelling cases. Vera was presented with a beautiful vase of flowers. On a lighter note my Assistant Greenkeeper presented me with a round mouth shovel, that I had used in top dressing over the past 15 years. We had a marvellous night, and I take it as a tribute that hardly any one left the party until the last minute, and that was when the bar closed at 12.30 am. After a cup of coffee at home we all retired. I think that most of us were awake about 6.45 am and had breakfast. We had a leisurely morning sitting around talking and slowly depleting the fridge until friends of Kevin arrived to take them to Beresfield. The next to depart were Curly and Beatrice. About 5 pm I drove Jack Maclay in to pick up the train at Maitland. Jack and Una stayed until Monday morning. Until this week I did not realise that I had so many friends, both in the Club and outside, and I am extremely proud that this is so. Almost without exception the people, whom Vera and her sister asked to come to the party, accepted. In effect, the party snowballed, in that the original idea was to have a bar-b-que at our place for about 20 people and we finished up with over 70 at the Club. I'm leaving today for Brisbane to see my Mother, who will be 92 this coming July, and from there I am going to Mungindi. Best regards to All, Jack Fell."
Jock Logan - Palm
Beach, Qld., 4221 – HQ Company, Transport (ALMOST A 25 WORD MESSAGE. Wonder where he was trained to do that? See Arch's contribution page 13. Ed).
“Bill” H.S. Clayton
- North Sydney, 2060 - C Company
George Aspinall –
Canterbury, 2193 - HQ Company October issue of "Barbed Wire and Bamboo"" carried a paragraph to the effect that Dr. Peter Davies had spent 5 days in Sydney last year researching and talking to Australians, who had been with Lt. Col. Toosey, as he was then, on the Line.
“Snow” Noel Hampton
- Ballina - B Company "Reveille" of April 1980 (this current issue) lists the “LIFE MEMBERSHIP AWARDS BY MARCH STATE COUNCIL". In the list is Noel's name as submitted by Ballina Sub-Branch. We regard this as a well earned honour for a lot of hard work. We understand that he has been welfare officer there for, some time. It was reported in 1974 that he had been made a Life Member of the Ballina R.S.L. Club for his work within the Club and in the Community. He has been Treasurer of the Club. We sympathise with Noel and his daughter; who is in Lismore Hospital with a very bad broken leg, which may need a plate to be put in.
Ray Duncombe -
Balmain, 2041, - HQ Company, Sigs I spent a fortnight there and the computer did not tell Kevin that I was there. In fact I was leaving on the Thursday and was down in the discharge section, when Garry Evans saw me. I am to go back to Concord on 22nd April, so I won't be with the boys on Anzac Day. I will not be able to even go to the P.O.W. Rooms, let alone any marching, and I would like you to give my apologies to the boys. One of my brighter moments, just lately, has been that I backed the winner of the Golden Slipper on the TAB. Also I came good with a few other winners. Family wise - my grand-daughter, who is in the Commonwealth Bank in Pitt St. near the Quay, has been on her holidays during the middle of which she went on a 17 day Pacific Islands Cruise, which she enjoyed. My grandson, now that he has graduated, is on work that suits him, on circuits in telecommunication machinery, where he does testing. Although he has quite a distance to travel each day from Harbord out to Kingsford.
“Doc” Wilson - West
Ryde, 2114 - A Company Garry has written back to say that it was the first time that any of the younger generation of Battalion folk had asked for his help, and he has seen from "Makan" that some do go over to the U.K. and Europe. Seemingly, he says, they look on me as an old Fuddy Duddy. I'd say that they wouldn't have known Garry to have stood on his hands for a solid minute on top of a table on the night of the Annual Meeting in 1960, and has quite a lot of go in him yet. And, of course, his wife, Marge, backs him up, in offering their hospitality. Linda asked for a check on the address given for Derek's brother George, and sure enough the name of the London suburb had been left out. So George's address, for any one at all visiting England, is “George H. Smith, 8 Chilworth Gardens, (a cul de sac) off Bexhillwood Road, Sutton, Surrey.” Derek also adds directions to reach it, as:- “You get out of London from Victoria Station to Sutton, or you get the Underground to Morden, then get a bus to Sutton (Angel Pub). There you would have to enquire, as to how to get to his street." March and Song – “Galleghan's Greyhounds” By Andy Hyslop. “Makan” No. 248, The Report of the Group Tour to Malaysia, contains the words and music of the above March and song. Andy Hyslop's son is in Brisbane and showed the music to the Director of Music for the Military District up there. He saw it as a new good Marching Tune, and worked on Andy's music to prepare scores for the various instruments in a band. Andy sent word to your scribe of this development, expressing the hope it might be played by a Band for our Battalion on Anzac Day. The Executive asked Bruce Ford, as Secretary, to take up the suggestion with R.S.L. H.Q.; but there, it was said, that it was not in their hands, to decide what particular music was to be played by any band. Contact would need to be made with the Bandmaster of the particular Band, which would be allotted to us on the day. This, however, would not allow time for the Band to practise it. Advice was given also that the Director of Music for the Military District of N.S.W. at Victoria Barracks, Maj. Clyne, might be able to give some advice on this. So Bruce and Ron Maston interviewed him and gave him the score, as it had come down from Brisbane. He made further adjustments to parts of the score ; had his Band at Victoria Barracks play it; recorded their playing, and gave a copy of the tape to Bruce. Bruce's next move was back to R.S.L. H.Q., where he learnt that Sutherland Shire Band and the Burwood Band would be in front of 8 Div Units for the March on Anzac Day. The R.S.L. Rep. has offered to contact the respective Bandmasters, if Bruce is able to give him copies of the score. He has also asked Bruce to give him the story behind Andy's preparation of the Match. Presumably it will be a good story to weave into the TV and Radio Commentator's recitals of the outstanding characteristics of the Units, when they pass in front of those commentators, where they are on the route. George Aspinall has been given the chance to copy the recording of the March, so that he may bring it on his sound track for his Film of the History of the Battalion and Association, so everyone will be able to enjoy it, when they see his films.
Col O'Donnell -
Dalveen, Qld. 4374 - C Company, 15 Platoon Although the date is still 9 months off, I am full of pleasurable anticipation at the thought of seeing those who are still alive from 15 Platoon. I can't drive myself these days, so have to depend on my son to drive me. See you at Tamworth. Cheers for now. Yours sincerely, Colin.” (A short addition from Kath, "Col is now managing to write his own letter. After a visit to the Specialist he has stronger glasses now and drops to dilate the pupils. He had a good report and does not have to see the Specialist again until-April. Best regards, Kath." (Thank you very much, Kath. A.D.)
Clarrie Lattimer -
Kyogle, 2474 - HQ Company I am typing this note amid getting mail ready for posting, handing over my various positions to my stand-ins etc. Heard some hours ago that Jock Logan is in Greenslopes Repat Hospital. Your's in haste, Clarrie." (For those, who do not know the Sydney suburb's of Bangor, such as your scribe, the Post Code is the clue, being the same as the one for Menai. Ed.) Annual Reunion ALL ex-members of the Battalion are requested to come to Tamworth. The Reunion is not solely for Members of the Association. Therefore will those to whom this "MAKAN" goes please endeavour to collect in as many of our cobbers as possible.
2/30 Bn A.I.F.
Association - Annual Reunion - at Tamworth PLEASE REGISTER NOW with a BOOKING FEE of $5.00, we'll collect the rest later. Please complete, attach your cheque or other means of payment for BOOKING FEE and send to JACK BLACK. (BLOCK LETTERS OR TICK PLEASE)
SURNAME
........................................................................................ I/We will be attending SUNDAY LUNCHTIME BARBEQUE Yes/No (BOTH AT GOLF CLUB) COMPETITIONS:- Until it is known what may be the preferences, it is not known, if there will be any competitions, it will also be dependant on availability of sites. Please tick your preference in case they are on - Golf, Bowls, Tennis, Cricket, Rifle Shooting, Darts, Bridge, or please name any other or would you prefer, just to meet and yarn? ............ Yes / No ................ PLEASE UNDERSTAND THAT THIS IS A FAMILY GET-TOGETHER. WIVES IF YOU HAVE THEM AND CHILDREN ALSO, if they want to come. WIVES OF OUR DECEASED COBBERS, BACHELORS and WIDOWERS please all join us. Supplement with “Makan” No. 253 Mar/Apr 1980 2/30 Bn Association
Harry Riches -
Brunswick Heads, 2483 - HQ Company, Transport "I am writing on behalf of "Joe" Johnston and myself to tell you and all the boys of a little trip we have had just now roaming round the State, trying to see as many of our old mates as possible. It was Joe's idea, also his car and he did all the driving. We left home on 17th March and our first port of call was Dorrigo to see "Kingie" Martin. He had not long arrived home after an eye operation, but he looked well and was very pleased to see us. Kingie lives in town, but still has his farm a few miles out. He took us out to have a look around and showed us his bullocks. It is a very well kept farm and a great credit to him. We talked half the night, of course, and next morning took off for Tamworth, calling at Armidale on the way to see Mrs Sinclair, who made us most welcome with a nice cup of tea. We also saw Ross Madden. On arriving at Tamworth we got in touch with Wal Eather, Phil Bailey, Ray Michell and Doug Hicks. We had a great old get together with them and talked ourselves dry. The next night we spent at Narrabri, where we stayed with friends of Joe and Sybil. We met up with Ted and Gwen Lawty at the R.S.L., also Bob Logan (Jock's brother. Next day we got in touch with Thelma Gibbs, who asked us out to spend some time with her, and showed us all over her property. She is doing a great job looking after it, with very little help. We had two very enjoyable days at Narrabri, then left for Dubbo, calling at Boggabri on the way to see Jack Lumby (Dick's brother), but sorry to say he was not at home, so we left a note. Then we dropped in on Stuart Robertson, who was in the middle of ploughing. He has a very nice property and we enjoyed our visit and had a chat over lunch. Then we were on our way to Dubbo, calling at Gilgandra to see Bert Hodge, but were sorry to learn that he was away. We spent the night in Dubbo. Next day on to Tottenham, where we called to see Alan Hudson (he is still running). He and Marge made us very welcome and gave us a very good time; took us all around the district and out to see his blood horses, also the copper-mine. I brought home a piece of copper, which looks like opal. I am going to polish it. We left next day for Bathurst, where we saw our old camp site. It brought back a lot of memories. We spent a very pleasant evening with Bruce and Marjorie Pratt. Bruce has a hobby, like me, only it is old cars, not sulkies. He also has made some very interesting pieces of woodwork. Leaving Bathurst, we went on to Oberon, where we met up with John and Pam Haskins. They look well, but are kept very busy and need rain, the same as everyone else out that way. After having morning tea with them we went on to Lithgow and had a look at the Japanese Mural, which Phil Bailey and some of his mates constructed. It is the only one of its kind in Australia. It looks very nice as the Lions Club have done some restoration work on it recently. We arrived in Singleton that afternoon and met Dal Oldknow over a few beers at the Club. Next morning we went to his place, where we saw the best collection of wartime photos I have seen. Dal looks well and is doing a wonderful job with the young people for the church. We went on to Denman to Bob and Betty Wells. Here we spent two very enjoyable days on their Dairy Farm. They have a beautiful herd of Friesian cattle. While we were there the herd tester came and some of Bob's Cows are giving seven gallons of milk per day. He had taken some to Muswellbrook Show and won Grand Champion Dairy Cow of the Show. They gave us a great time. Betty took as to Rosemount Winery, where we did some tasting. It's very good too. We got some also to bring home. Bob took us for a drive up the Hunter Valley and in the evening to the Bowling Club. After 2 days we had to be on our way to Newcastle, but looked in on Alfie Carroll and his sister, Gwyn, at Greta. Alf is looking well. We enjoyed a cup of tea and a chat with them, then left to meet Ray Godbolt, who was taking us out to stay with them for the night. Don and Monica Schumacher came to see us, also Sid and Joan Stephens. So we had a great evening. Next day we went to see Sid and Rita Musgrove, who have built a new house on the outer edge of Wallsend, a new development. Sid is going to have the best lawn in Newcastle. Lunch over, we said goodbye to Mavis and Ray and headed for Taree, the home stretch. We had arranged to meet some of the boys at Taree R.S.L. Jack Clune, Harold Hogan, Jack Newton, Claude Worth and Harry Griffis were good to see there. We had a great talk over old times. We were going to spend the night in Taree at the Motel, but Jack Clune would not hear of it and insisted that we go out to stay with him and Una. We had a very happy time there. They have a nice farm, also very good horses. I had a ride in Una's Sulky. We said goodbye once again and went on to Nambucca Heads. Here we spent the night with some nice friends of Joe and Sybil. They showed us round the town, then took us to the Bowling Club, where we were to meet Don Garner. Next day we drove to Bellingen to see Gerry and Jessie Bailey. We were driving up the street looking for their house, when Gerry saw us and came out. He looks well, but has a bad leg. He and a friend are making a 9 hole Golf Course, which will be adjoining his own place. It is a very pretty spot and he has bought the house, where his Mother and Father lived, and where all the family were born. We had meant to continue on our way, after seeing them; but they would not hear of it; insisting we stay the night. It was the same wherever we went, nothing but hospitality and kindness. Gerry said that they were expecting Edna and Mike up any day, but were not sure when they would arrive. Next day we were off to Woolgoolga to see some of the boys there. We were sorry to hear that Bob Newman was in Hospital. We picked up Normie Lee and went on to the Club and who should walk in, but Edna Bailey and Mike with Con Hedwards. Mike could not stay long. He had to go to Coffs to do a Weather Report for the local Channel, but was coming back to pick up Edna in the afternoon. We all had lunch together and a good talk. Edna gave Joe and me a signed picture of Mike for Sybil and Dot, and they were very pleased to receive them. Normie and Con are both well. Coin is building a new house, and Normie has made a nice garden on a piece of land across from the Caravan Park. Before we left the district we called on Edgar Dengate and Ben Pearce. Ben does not have very good health these days but keeps busy. He and Mildred have a nice home and garden near the creek, where he likes to go fishing in his little boat. We had a cup of tea with them, then set out for home; late afternoon was upon us before we arrived there. It was a great trip. I have never enjoyed a holiday so much and I am very grateful to Joe for suggesting it, as I could never have done it myself. It was wonderful seeing so many of our old mates. Some we have not seen for many years. We have been home a week now and last Monday Joe, Stan Scarabellotti and I went up to Greenslopes to see Jock Logan. He was getting on well after his operation and had been sent to Rosemount Convalescent Home in Brisbane, but had a set-back by getting some infection in the chest, so he is back in Hospital for a while. We do hope he will soon feel better. He was very pleased to see us. I and Dot are fairly well, ourselves, allowing for old age! Dot had a stay in Hospital for an operation in January, but is O.K. now. We hope that the boys and their families are enjoying the best of health available to them, and send our very good wishes to them All. All the Best, Harry Riches." Ex-Service Associations of Malaysia and of Singapore The Sub-Committee has advised the above Associations of visits being made by Members of the 2/30 Bn Association and as a result our Members have been contacted, when they were either in Malaysia or Singapore and have been very pleased with he way in which they have been received. Visits to the Chapel at Changi Gaol Visitors, on arrival Singapore, should contact the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board, Tudor House, Tanglin Rd., let there know they are Ex-Ps.O.W. and they want to visit the Chapel. You will find the Board most helpful. It is also a good idea to contact the Sydney Branch of Singapore Tourist Promotion Board, for any material you may require regarding places to visit on the Island. Aid for Malaysian Widows and Orphans - R.S.L. Aid Abroad The Sub-Committee is endeavouring to select a widow, & family in the State of Negri Sembilan, as that is where Gemencheh River and Gemas are located. Letters have been written to Tan Sri Dato Mubin Sheppard for guidance and help in selecting a family and to ensure that donations reach this family, through an organised Branch of Ex-Service Association of Malaysia. Some donations have been received already from Members & we look forward to others coming to hand. The size of the donation does not matter, as it is the thought behind it that counts. Many small ones share the load. Once a family is adopted the R.S.L. Aid Abroad Scheme looks for yearly gifts from then on, not necessarily the same ones. Back to 1980 index or Main Index |