Certificates of Appreciation

A IR M AIL
Royal Australian Air Force Association
“Fostering the Spirit of Friendship and Perpetuating the Honour and Ideals of Her Majesty’s Air Forces”
X
February / March 2013
Print Post Approved:
PP644113/100
> WHAT’S
INSIDE
50 year celebrations
for Lancaster
The RAAFA Museum acquired
its Lancaster in 1962. A special
dinner was held to celebrate the
anniversary.
PAGE 6
Certificates of Appreciation
Four Cambrai Village residents were
presented with RAAFA Certificates of
Appreciation at their December meeting.
Margaret Burrows joined the RAAF
Association in September 1998 and moved
onto Cambrai Village with her husband Les
in 2000. Since moving onto the Village
she has become the main stay of the Craft
Group.
Margaret has been a tireless worker who
never fails to turn up each Monday to
organise the craft ladies, assisting where she
can. She has been the driving force behind
the ladies making booties and bonnets for
prem-babies at King Edward Memorial
Hospital for Women, as well as Trauma
Teddy Bears for overseas and the St John
Ambulance Association.
She arranges bus outings, dinners and in
general keeps the Craft Group together.
Keith Miller became a member of RAAFA
and moved into Cambrai Village in
September 2001 with his wife Margaret.
Despite suffering a considerable amount
of ill health he has still contributed to the
Village in many ways.
Keith is one of our sound men, working
behind the scenes at most functions, setting
up the audio system.
Being an electrician he carries out
numerous repairs for residents on their TVs
and recording machines and undertakes a
thorough safety check on all the electrical
equipment presented for sale at our Fetes.
Keith also doubles as the official Village
photographer and can be seen at most
functions snapping photos for the
Chronicle and Village records.
Margaret also assists in the organisation of
the Arts and Craft Exhibition and works at
the Village Fete every year.
Keith is one of our quiet achievers and the
Cambrai Village Residents’ Branch deeply
appreciates the work that he does for all
the residents and recommended him for the
award.
The Cambrai Village Residents’ Branch
deeply appreciates all the work that
Margaret undertakes to support Village life
and recommended her for the award.
Aileen Hill or Mikki as she prefers, joined
the RAAF Association in June 2001 and
moved onto Cambrai Village in October
2001. Since moving onto the Village
The New Year is traditionally a time
for taking stock, reflecting on the past
year and making resolutions for the
year ahead.
PAGE 12
she has taken part in many activities and
committees that support the residents.
RAAFA
Centenarians
Currently she is the main stay of the
Indoor Bowling Group, being one of the
organisers for not only the games, but also
the outings and social functions.
Congratulations are sent to
two RAAFA residents who celebrated
milestone birthdays during December
2012.
Mikki also organises the weekly Darts
Group, arranging their outings and
functions. This group is one of the most
active in the village and has a large following.
Gordon Lodge resident, David
McCrae celebrated his 102nd birthday
on 7 December 2012. David has a
very sharp sense of humour, a keen
mind and remains physically active at
this ripe old age.
She has been on several committees,
including serving on the Social and
Club Committee for many years. Her
commitment to these roles is a credit to her
organising skills and her efforts have been
greatly appreciated by all.
L to R Recipients Margaret Burrows, Keith Miller, Mikki Hill and Lenore Greive
Healthy New Year’s
Resolution
Each year a Christmas function is arranged
in Bell Park within the Village. This is a
wonderful event that has grown every year,
not only in numbers but also in popularity
and Mikki and her fellow helpers have
made this an event not to be missed.
McNamara Lodge resident Olive
Orgles celebrated her 104th birthday
on 20 December 2012. The City of
Mandurah Mayor presented Olive
with a huge bouquet of flowers and
residents joined Olive for a celebratory
morning tea.
Mikki is a credit to Village life and the
Cambrai Village Residents’ Branch highly
recommended her for the award.
Lenore Greive joined the RAAF
Association in January 1995 and moved
onto Cambrai Village with her husband
Brian in 2000. In that time she has
contributed greatly to the social life of
the Village with her excellent singing and
entertaining talents.
David McCrae
There would hardly be a function, either
private or social, within the Village where
she has not been asked to entertain. She is a
member of both the Silver Legends and the
Merriwa Mudlarks.
Always ready and willing to assist where she
can, Lenore also does rostered duty in the
Village Library.
Lenore has always taken an active role
in the social life on the Village and her
efforts are greatly acknowledged by the
Cambrai Village Residents’ Branch who
appreciate her commitment and strongly
recommended her for the award.
Olive Orgles
A IR M AIL
Around the roundel Quilty
debuts
opportunities for development and new
projects.
Division Council has commenced a
comprehensive review of the By-Laws.
Division Council vacancies
State President, Graeme Bland
By Graeme Bland
CHRISTMAS is over and the New Year is
already going past at a seemingly rapid rate.
To all I wish that this year may be a good,
healthy year free from major worries.
CEO’s resignation
It is with regret that I have to inform you
of the resignation of our Chief Executive
Officer, Gerry Warner which took effect on
23 January 2013. Mr Warner joined us in
2005 and has been instrumental in lifting
the governance standards of RAAFA in
Western Australia to prepare the Division
for its future as a membership based service
provider to the Aged Care and Retirement
Village industries. We wish Gerry well for
his future endeavours.
The process for recruiting a new CEO is well
underway.
In the interim period, the Manager Corporate
Services, Mr Kim Pascoe, will be the Acting
CEO. He will also continue his current
duties.
From Division Council
The Constitutional amendment approved
at the 2012 AGM has been accepted by
both the Tax Office and the Department
of Consumer Affairs. Therefore the 60/40
rule has been put to rest and all Ordinary
Members are now eligible to nominate for
Division Council positions.
Following the changes to Division Council,
Council has determined membership of its
Committees. These Committees include the
State Executive, Audit, Aviation Heritage
Museum, Planning and Development and Air
Mail Editorial Committees.
The Division Corporate Plan is being
reviewed for 2013 to 2015. During
preliminary discussions Division Council
agreed the importance of approving the
new Constitution, maintaining the Aviation
Heritage Museum and remaining open to
Now is the time to start thinking of the
upcoming Division Council vacancies for the
2013 AGM. We require nominations for
State Secretary and one Division Councillor.
Remember that all Ordinary Members are
now eligible to nominate for these positions
and further details and Nomination Forms
can be obtained from the State Secretary, Jim
Carruthers, on 9311 4445.
National Council
A face-to-face meeting was held in Canberra
on 28 November 2012. RAAFA National
wishes to lift its profile and become more
involved with serving members of the RAAF
who are undergoing separation (discharging).
This involvement will initially incorporate
awareness of entitlements.
A National working party has been
established to examine RAAFA’s relationships
with other ex RAAF Groups.
National has decided to proceed with a
RAAFA Veteran National Centre where
Veterans can make contact with RAAFA
Pension Officers and Advocates Australia
wide to suit their location and circumstances.
Wing Commander Dick Creswell’s medals,
which were to be put up for auction by his
family, have been purchased by the RAAF
Museum at Point Cook, Victoria.
Parcels to Afghanistan
Four RAAF Pearce personnel were doing
tours of duty in Afghanistan over the
Christmas period and on your behalf
RAAFA sent them each a Christmas parcel.
We wish them all a safe tour and return in
the New Year.
RAAFA events
Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the
RAAFA ceremonies advertised in this edition
and get your tickets for the RAAFA Annual
Dinner on Saturday 13 April. We look
forward to your support at these annual events.
AFME Memorial Wall
On 26 November 2012 some members of
the British Commonwealth Occupation
Forces (BCOF) RAAF Squadrons who
served in Japan after the surrender of Japan
in 1945, unveiled a new plaque on our
Memorial Wall at AFME in Bull Creek.
No 77 Squadron (RAAF) was the first
Commonwealth Unit to later be transferred
to operate in the Korean War.
Kings Park Honour Avenues
Many years ago we supplied RAAF badges
for the Kings Park Honour Avenue. The
RAAF badge is mounted on the tree plaques,
which honour the loss of WA RAAF men
and women who died on overseas service.
We are in the process of updating the badges
to colour and I thank those Branches that
have donated towards the cost.
ANZAC Day March 2013
For Branches intending to participate in
the Perth ANZAC Day March under the
RAAFA banner please note the following
details:
Ben Quilty: After Afghanistan will showcase
21 studio paintings, along with 16
works on paper sketched by the artist
during his tour of Afghanistan in 2011.
•
Please return your forms to the State
Secretary, AFME, Bull Creek and we will
forward to the RSL in bulk.
•
Seating is available on transport vehicles
for those unable to complete the full
distance of the march. If you require
this service, please advise the State
Secretary on 9311 4445.
Quilty says he was profoundly affected
by his tour of Afghanistan: “I had such
extreme feelings about the smell, sound,
emotions of being in Afghanistan, I
want to convey this.”
Centenary of ANZAC
Commemorations will commence with the
first convoy re-enactment on 1 November
2014 at Albany and will continue with
various commemorations for the Centenary
of the origins of ANZAC until
Remembrance Day 2018. Commemorations
will be held throughout Australia and
overseas. Watch this space.
Gallipoli 2015
I attended a seminar in Perth regarding
Gallipoli 2015. The Governments of
Australia and New Zealand have agreed
to conduct a ballot to enable attendance
at ANZAC Cove ceremonies on 25 April
2015. 8,000 places have been allocated for
Australians and 2,000 for New Zealanders
and without a pass there will be no entry.
Details of the ballot are expected in February
2013. Applications can be made through the
Gallipoli2015 website or the Department of
Veterans’ Affairs website links.
Again I remind you to be careful with what
travel agents may promise.
Finally, remember to “Stay on your Feet”.
RAAF Association (WA Division) Inc. Bull Creek Drive, BULL CREEK WA 6149 Telephone: (08) 9311 4444 Fax: (08) 9311 4455
Page 2
AIR MAIL
February / March 2013
The Australian War Memorial will
launch a new exhibition, Ben Quilty: After
Afghanistan, featuring new works from
official war artist and Archibald Prizewinner Ben Quilty at the National Art
School Gallery in Darlinghurst on 21
February 2013.
RSL ANZAC Day Participant Packages
are available from the State Secretary
9311 4445 if you haven’t received them
directly from the RSL.
Telephone: (08) 9311 4449 Fax: (08) 9311 4455 Email: jstearne@raafawa.org.au Enquiries: Julie Stearne
For submission deadlines please see page 9
Acknowledgement: Australian War Memorial
•
Editor: Colin Mounsey Contributions to: The Editor, Air Mail, AFME, Bull Creek Drive, BULL CREEK WA 6149
Email: administrator@raafawa.org.au Web: www.raafawa.org.au
official
war art in
Sydney
After spending over three weeks talking
to, and hearing the experiences of,
servicemen and women in Afghanistan,
Quilty felt an overwhelming need to
tell their stories. A significant part of
the exhibition presents portraits of the
young soldiers the artist met during his
tour.
Exhibition curator Laura Webster says,
“The portraits reflect the experiences
of these young soldiers during their
Afghanistan tour and after their return
to Australia.”
“The works reflect the immensity and
overwhelming nature of Afghanistan,
and the war being fought there,” said
Webster.
Quilty was attached to the Australian
Defence Force (ADF) from 11 October
until 3 November 2011. During this
time he observed the Australians’
activities in Kabul, Kandahar and
Tarin Kot. His task was to record and
interpret the experiences of Australian
service personnel who are deployed as
part of Operation Slipper.
Ben Quilty’s works continue a
distinguished tradition of appointing
official war artists, a practice established
during the First World War.
After Afghanistan: Ben Quilty will be on
show at the National Art School in
Darlinghurst, Sydney, from 21 February
to 13 April 2013; it will then tour
Australia. The National Art School
Gallery is located on the National
Art School Campus, Forbes Street,
Darlinghurst, Sydney.
Opening hours are 10am – 4pm,
Monday – Saturday.
Royal Australian Air Force Association
Life Membership awards
RAAFA Life Membership awards were
presented at separate events in December
to two well deserving recipients.
Graeme Coventry joined the RAAF
Association in 1990 and volunteered to
assist in the restructure of the Aviation
Heritage Museum, including preparation
of material for, and the training of,
volunteers. He was also a volunteer at the
Museum himself.
Graeme also held a number of positions
at the WA Division level, including State
Vice President (1992–93), Chairman
Veteran Homes Committee, member of
the Board of Management and various
Division Council Committees and
Chairman of the AFA Club Committee
at Bull Creek.
Following retirement, Graeme and his
wife Ann moved onto the RAAFA Estate
Meadow Springs in 1999. It was not
long before Graeme became involved as a
bus driver, taking fellow residents to do
their weekly shopping, various functions
and on short holidays.
He was Secretary of the Mandurah
Branch where his commitment to the
Branch resulted in the membership
almost doubling. He has also acted as
Honourary Auditor for many of the
Meadow Springs social groups. Graeme
was awarded a Certificate of Service in
2003.
In recognition of his continued
commitment and contribution to the
Division, the Branch and the residents,
the Mandurah Branch had the great
pleasure of nominating Graeme Coventry
for Life Membership of the RAAF
Association.
Ray Smith joined the RAAF
Association in 1996. When the Airfield
Construction Squadrons’ (ACS) Branch
was formed in 1998 Ray was the
inaugural Secretary and has served on
the Committee in various positions,
including President for a total of eight
terms.
Acknowledgement: Alzheimer’s Australia
Australians are being encouraged
to make sure they make their brain matter
in 2013 by putting better brain health at
the top of their new year’s resolution list.
The CEO of Alzheimer’s Australia
WA, Ms Rhonda Parker, said there was
increasing evidence that undertaking
activities that are reasonably complex,
socially active, physically active or
mentally challenging can help retain
and build brain cells, helping to keep
your brain working efficiently as we age
and help reduce the risk of developing
dementia.
Ray and his wife Norma moved onto
the RAAFA Estate Meadow Springs
in 1999 and he has been the Secretary
of the Club Social Committee since its
formation in 1999.
In addition to planning the Club’s
social programs the Committee has
funded numerous items of equipment
and improvements – usually at Ray’s
instigation.
In 2002, under Ray’s leadership, the
bi-annual National Reunion of ex-ACS
members was held in Western Australia
over a period of five days. 220 ex-ACS
members attended the event and it is
still regarded as the best ACS National
Reunion ever. It further strengthened
the bonds which still prevail between the
various ACS groups.
Graeme Coventry
While there are no guarantees, the
evidence is that we can reduce the risk
of developing dementia by keeping our
brains as healthy as possible.
“One clinical trial has found that regular
walking led to an increase in the size of
the hippocampus, the brain’s memory
centre,” Ms Parker said.
Ray Smith being presented with his
award by Division Councillor Bill
Anderson
RAAFA Life Membership
The presentation of a RAAFA Life
Membership award was a good way
to start the year for long term City of
Perth Branch member, Nobby Clark.
The State President presented the
award at the Branches fellowship lunch,
which kicked off their events calendar
for the year.
Nobby Clark as he prefers to be called
joined the RAAF Association in June
1984 and at the same time joined
the City of Perth Branch where he
immediately became an active volunteer.
Nobby has been the Branch Treasurer
for the past 28 years, meticulously
maintaining their financial records.
He took on a leading role in
fundraising activities, some of which
has resulted in the Memorial Window
“Understanding brain function and
performance as we age is an exciting
research frontier that is providing vital
new information on dementia,” Rhonda
Parker added.
“We now know that a healthy brain
continues to create new connections
and cells throughout the life course,
which is an exciting development in our
understanding of the human body,” Ms
Parker said.
Ray has performed considerable
honorary services of an outstanding
nature to many and varied elements of
the WA Division for most of his 18
years of membership. His computer
skills are readily made available to assist
the needs of other Branches and groups
on the Estate. In 2001 Ray Smith was
awarded a Certificate of Appreciation.
The ACS Branch considered Ray Smith
to be a very worthy recipient of the
award of Life Membership of the RAAF
Association.
Make your
brain matter
in the Air Force Memorial Estate
Chapel and mini raffles within the
Branch.
“A recent trial carried out in Australia
involving people over the age of 50 found
that a 6 month program of physical
activity resulted in improved memory and
thinking, even 18 months later.”
“Being brain healthy is good for your
overall health as well, so doing things that
are good for your brain should also help
you feel fitter and generally healthier.
Your Brain Matters is Alzheimer’s
Australia’s national brain health program.
It is based on scientific evidence that
shows a close relationship between body
health and brain health.
“Making your brain matter can be as
simple as:
Nobby also assumed the role of the
Planning Social and Ceremonial
Coordinator for the Branch.
• choosing to take the stairs instead of
the lift to help get your body moving;
In addition to these valuable
contributions, Nobby also served
two terms as Branch delegate on the
Division Committee as well as two
terms on the Division Fete Committee.
• taking up a new hobby;
• increasing your social connections by
joining a book club to keep your brain
active, and
• choosing a sparkling water instead of
that extra alcoholic drink with dinner.”
Nobby was awarded a Certificate of
Service in 2000 and a Certificate
of Merit in 2006 for his support
and contributions to RAAFA (WA
Division) Inc.
Nobby Clark
In recognition of his dedicated service
to the Branch and Division, the City of
Perth Branch strongly recommended
the nomination of Nobby Clark
for Life Membership of the RAAF
Association.
“Let’s remember the small but effective
changes we can make to improve our
brain health and reduce our risk of
dementia,” Ms Parker commented.
To find out more, go to yourbrainmatters.org.au.
February / March 2013
AIR MAIL
Page 3
A IR M AIL
Busselton caravan rally
By Del Willmott
A number of AAFC Branch members joined together for
a Caravan Rally to Busselton in late October where most of
us stayed at Kookaburra Caravan Park. Over the next couple
of days we enjoyed socialising and several excursions including
a visit to the Dardanup Heritage Park and the Wansbrough
Winery.
Located between Picton and Dardanaup the Dardanup
Heritage Park originally focused on tractors, and heavy
earthmoving equipment. It has now expanded to include a
much greater range of exhibits, including an historic steam
sawmill, a printshop, as well as an old style dairy complete
with wooden cow. The latter was much the same as I
remember in my childhood in Bridgetown in the 1940s;
except it smelt better! Our member, Berice McGlashan is
helping them set up an old style hairdressing salon. There is
also an extensive military display that includes a wide range of
firearms, medals and other military artefacts with particular
emphasis on local citizens who served in the armed forces.
Also on display are a Leopard tank, a Bren Gun Carrier and a
Ferret Scout Car.
Wansbrough Wines and enjoyed wine tasting and lunch
overlooking the lovely vineyard and countryside.
It was also a reunion for four of us who first met when
we were members of the WA Squadron ATC Rifle Team
and travelled together to Melbourne in Easter 1953.
The shooting competition, using .303s, took place at
Williamstown Rifle Range where we were runners up to
a team from North Queensland. Four of the original six
members of the team, Brian Wansbrough, Alwyn Barnesby,
Del Willmott and Glen Fruin (captain) enjoyed lunch
together for the first time in 59 years. It made a memorable
occasion for all of us although we could not believe just how
much heavier the .303 had become over the years!
Our first caravan rally was a great success and it seems likely
that we will hold a similar event again in the future.
Lunch at Wansbrough Winery
Visit to Mt Barker
and the Porongorup’s
By Bert Determes
92nd Anniversary
of the formation
of RAAF
Saturday, 23 March 2013
You are invited to join us for the 92nd
Anniversary of the formation of the
Royal Australian Air Force which will
be commemorated by a wreath laying
ceremony on
Saturday, 23 March 2013
The ceremony will take place at Kings Park
Flame of Remembrance, commencing
10.00am.
The ceremony will include a parade of
unit/branch banners, wreath laying by
invited guests and Branch Presidents, the
Last Post and a short address by Wing
Commander David Turner.
Medals may be worn.
Page 4
AIR MAIL
February / March 2013
On Monday, 26 November 2012, State President,
Graeme Bland, represented RAAFA at the 66th
Anniversary of the foundation of the War Widows’
Guild of Australia, held at the Flame of Remembrance,
Kings Park.
The War Widows Guild State Present, Sue Wilson
provided the address. She read an extract from the
history of the Guild that is currently being written by
Melinda Tognini.
“On Wednesday, 27 November 1946, 200 widows
attended a meeting at Anzac House in St George Terrace.
The meeting was arranged with the assistance of the
Friendly Union of Soldier’s Wives, who also provided the
widows with afternoon tea.
Two days later on Friday, 29 November the first
Provisional Committee of the War Widows’ Craft
Guild WA met, with Mrs Vasey in the chair. Temporary
committee members were elected unopposed, with
Marjorie Learmonth to be chairman.
One of the highlights of our visit was the starting of two
historic Tange Engines that were used to power early flour
mills, pumping stations and powerhouses. They are very large
and heavy with one or two cylinders and a large flywheel sunk
into the ground. Two of the three on display were started for
us and were very impressive, watching the flywheel turning and
the great connecting rods and pistons moving.
The following day we went into the Ferguson Valley to visit
66th Anniversary of
the foundation of the
War Widows Guild
In November a bus load of residents from RAAFA
Amity Village Albany departed for an outing to Mt
Barker and the Porongurup’s.
Our first stop was the St Werburgh Chapel, where we also
enjoyed morning tea which was supplied by our social
club. The Chapel was built in 1873 and is still used for
worship, weddings and christenings. Services are held by
candlelight as the chapel has never had electricity.
We then headed off to the Mt Barker Museum, but
unfortunately we didn’t have enough time to appreciate
the many items and stories of the past. After spending
some time at the museum we drove on to the
Porongurup’s for lunch which was enjoyed by most except
those who ordered the Salmon Patties that came minus
the salmon.
We continued our scenic journey through the beautiful
Porongorup’s with a stop off at Jingala Wines, where we
enjoy sampling their range of wines.
All who went had a great time and we are looking forward
to the next trip.
St Werburg Chapel
In a Post-War Bulletin broadcast on the radio, Marjorie
Learmonth made sure that Western Australians knew
what the War Widows’ Guild was and to outline what its
purpose was:
In the past war widows have been overlooked on many occasions. It
is taking time to bring us up to date with our entitlements, but in
the future the politicians will know he or she will have to answer
to a representative of thousands of women who are members of the
War Widows’ Craft Guild, if we are forgotten.
It is not always easy for a widow with a young family to branch
out for herself, and in many cases, there is a doubt as to what they
are best suited for. Practically every other group of the community
can give a certain amount of time thinking out a profession or
trade, but a war widow, in many cases, a very young woman with
children, is thrown on her own resources very suddenly.
The Guild’s purpose wasn’t only about monetary
compensation, however. The women also discussed
having regular, monthly social gatherings for friendship
and mutual support. For many of the women, it was
the friendships formed at the Guild that would support
them through the hardest time of their lives.
Although this social aspect was crucial, this would
not simply be a women’s group of tea parties and idle
chatter. This group was comprised of women who were
determined to have their voices heard and improve the
conditions of thousands of women whose husbands had
paid the ultimate sacrifice. This was a group of women
who had been largely ignored in post-war Australia. They
would be ignored no longer.”
Following the wreath laying, all war widows were invited
to place a red poppy in memory of their loved one.
Royal Australian Air Force Association
Your Division Councillor - Mr Tim Humphry, BE (Civil) (Hons), FAICD
tim Humphry was appointed to Division
Council in December 2010, and is also on
the Planning and Development Committee.
Since 2003 Tim has been a Principal
of Evans & Peck, an infrastructure
based advisory company that supports
governments and private organisations in
the initiation, development and delivery
of projects throughout Australia and Asia.
Prior to 2003 he had 31 years experience in
design, construction, marketing and general
management with a major construction
company.
Tim’s broad and extensive directorship
experience includes, Executive Director
Clough Engineering Limited 1988-2003,
Director PT Petrosea Indonesia 19932003, Independent Director Harvey Water
2005-2008, Trustee Clough Superannuation
Limited 1988-2003, Councillor and
Building Committee Chair Presbyterian
Ladies’ College, and Deputy Chair
Australian Indonesian Business Council.
Tim completed the Advanced Management
Program at Harvard Business School in
1998, and has Professional Certificates in
Arbitration (2004) and Mediation (2006).
He is a Registered Builder, Fellow of
Engineers Australia, Fellow of the Australian
Institute of Company Directors, and an
Associate of the Institute of Arbitrators and
Mediators Australia.
Tim has had experience in the retirement
housing sector through development and
operations directorship of the St Louis
Estate Claremont, between 1987 and 2003.
He was also recently appointed as a director
of Curtin Aged Persons Homes.
Christmas Dinner Troop care packages
at Erskine Grove
By David Oxley
By Joyce Hall
On Friday, 14 December about 145
Residents attended our annual Erskine
Grove Christmas Dinner in the Community
Centre.
As to be expected the tables were
resplendent in true Christmas fashion with
decorations, bon bons, boxes containing cake
and chocolates and lovely handmade reindeer
as centre pieces. The Christmas tree was
sparkling and the entire room was decorated.
A beautiful two course meal was served, no
queuing up this Christmas. Turkey buff, leg
ham with plenty of vegetables, followed by
Christmas pudding and custard or fruit salad
and cream. It was all beautifully cooked and
presented and I haven’t received any negative
feedback, so presume everyone thoroughly
enjoyed their meal.
Once again some lovely gifts were donated
for the raffle and all were eager to purchase
tickets. Five lucky recipients went home
with the extra Christmas goodies.
Margaret Cunningham co-ordinated the
catering, in particular all the extra table
decorations. She spends a lot of her own
time making special treats, which she says
she enjoys and gets a great deal of pleasure
in doing so. We are all very grateful for her
efforts.
Loading the next 40 Australian
troops care packages, ready for
Christmas mailing. Meadow Spring
residents have contributed a total of
120 such packages since learning of the
project to bring a touch of home and
a token of appreciation to our service
men and women serving overseas.
The written and phone
acknowledgements from recipients
confirm the benefits of this worthwhile
and rewarding project.
Loading the packages
There are many other people who also help
with setting up. It is the community spirit
of so many people lending their time that
makes it so rewarding and satisfying to be a
part of the Erskine Grove Family.
Thank you to everyone, especially the
attendees, and happy New Year, hope it is a
safe and healthy one.
RAAF Association annual dinner
Saturday, 13 April 2013
Come and enjoy an entertaining night, meeting new friends and listen
to Warrant Officer Jen Riches recount some of her experiences over 30
years in a variety of roles in the RAAF. Starting as a rookie cook to her
current rank of Base Warrant Officer at RAAF Pearce.
We hope you and your friends will support this year’s
RAAFA Annual Dinner on
Saturday, 13 April 2013 at 6.30pm for 7.00pm,
in Langley Hall, AFA Club, Bull Creek.
Tickets are $45 per head and include a pre-dinner drink, 3 course dinner,
tea and coffee. Please advise any special dietary requirements when
purchasing your ticket and your preference for a meat or fish main course.
Dress: Men – dinner suit, lounge suit, mess dress. Ladies – after five wear,
mess dress. Miniatures may be worn.
Following the success of last year we have again decided on a theme of
meeting new friends and we will form table groups.
Tickets will be available from Monday 4 March until 3.00pm Friday 5
April from the Estate Offices at Merriwa, Cambrai, Meadow Springs,
Erskine, Amity and Head Office in Bull Creek.
L to R Angus McAskill, Colin Steer, June Hoskins, Mary Evans and Dave Crowdy
Estate buses can be provided from the various estates if required
(min 12 persons per bus)
February / March 2013
AIR MAIL
Page 5
A IR M AIL
The
Padre’s Piece
So the ancient Romans must have got it
right when they named the first month of
the year after their god Janus- the God of
Gates and Doors. Janus is usually depicted
with two faces – one regarding what is
behind and the other looking forward to
what lies ahead.
By Padre David
THE publishing pattern for Air Mail
means we have an interesting situation with
this edition. I am writing while we are still
in the Christmas holiday period which runs
through to 2 January and with our families
we are very much involved in parties and
holidays, but Air Mail will be published
when we are well into the New Year.
At a dinner held just before Christmas I
had what I think was a strange experience
– strange in that it took some of us by
surprise. As the dinner was concluding and
we were wishing each other the compliments
of the season, someone looking forward
to the New Year quoted those well-known
words, “I said to the man who stood at the
gate of the year: “Give me a light that I
may tread safely into the unknown” and he
replied “Go out into the darkness and put
your hand in the Hand of God. That shall
be to you better than light and safer than a
known way”. One friend present seemed
to take offence that it was too religious for
the occasion. They obviously were unaware
of this quotation and how it had become so
well known.
It comes from a poem published in 1908
by Minnie Louise Haskin, but it was widely
acclaimed as inspirational when King
George VI quoted these words in his first
wartime Christmas radio broadcast on 25
December 1939.
This was the period of the “Phony War”.
The expected air onslaught on Britain
hadn’t come and many of the children who
had been evacuated out of the cities had
returned home. Although the German Navy
was already harassing Atlantic convoys and
on 13 October had managed to penetrate
the defenses of Scapa Flow and sink the
battleship “Royal Oak” with the loss of
over 830 lives, still the general mood of
Britain was apathy and complacency.
Recognising the need to change that mood
to one of confidence and determination
the King finished his speech – a grueling
experience for a man who suffered from a
debilitating stutter – with this poem entitled
“God Knows”. These words remained a
source of comfort to the Queen Mother for
the rest of her life and she had the words
engraved on brass plaques and fixed to the
gates of the King George VI Memorial
Chapel at Windsor Castle.
We are all individuals and we have our
personal hopes and dreams, personal fears
and anxieties, personal enthusiastic plans or
resigned acceptance of things as we move
into 2013.
I just want to commend to you the
inspiration of these words first put to paper
over a century ago.
Go with God, Shalom
Woodman Point 50th Anniversary for
Quarantine Station Museum’s Lancaster
By June Perry
On Thursday, 4 October a coach
full of RAAFA AFME residents visited
the old Woodman Point Quarantine
Station.
The outing was arranged by Patricia
Maynard who was able to provide some
personal insight. As a girl/young lady
Patricia’s home was at the station and
during the visit she was able to guide us
through the house in which she lived and
was proud to show us the dining room
where her 21st birthday was celebrated.
Records show that the Woodman Point
Quarantine Station was being used for
the quarantining of people and cargo
as far back as the 1830’s. However,
it was not until 1886 that the first
building was complete. Extensions were
made in 1901 including a new tram
line from the jetty to the fumigation
house so that passengers suffering from
infectious diseases such as the plague,
small pox, VD, TB, Spanish flue and a
single case of leprosy, could be moved
into quarantine and receive treatment.
The station also included Australia’s
first crematorium which is now open
to the public. More work was done
during WWI and the buildings were
modernised and expanded. The Station
closed in the 1970’s.
The Department of Sport and
Recreation now runs the area and the
Quarantine Station has been declared a
heritage listing. Following restoration
work it was officially opened to the
public in 2007 and they also run
children’s camps from the site.
AIR MAIL
February / March 2013
On 1 December 2012, the Aviation
Heritage Museum of Western Australia
celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of its
acquisition of an Avro Lancaster B.Mk VII.
For this special occasion, a Spit Roast
Dinner under the “Lanc” was organised by
Museum Administrator John Park. The
highlight of the evening was an eloquent
address by Squadron Leader Krishaan
Wright, a Flight Commander of 37
Squadron (Hercules). Squadron Leader
Wright gained his Wings in 1997 at RAAF
Pearce, and flew over from RAAF Richmond
especially for the event. His grandfather
Lyall Bell is a museum volunteer and also
attended the dinner. Lyall was a WWII
It was an extremely interesting and
enjoyable day out had by all to a local
historical location.
Enjoying the Woodman Point Quarantine Station visit
Page 6
By Charles Page
Spit Roast Dinner under the Lancaster
RAAF flying instructor on Tiger Moths and
Ansons, and also flew the Mosquito.
The dinner was also attended by Les Gordon,
who was a rear gunner on Lancasters, and
completed 22 missions over Europe with
75 Squadron.
The museum’s Lancaster was built by Austin
Motors in 1945, and given serial number
NX622. It was destined to go to Tiger Force
in the Far East, but was eventually sold to
the French Naval Air Arm and registered
WU16. After the museum acquired it in
1962, it was restored and painted to
represent another Lancaster in the colours of
463 Squadron, with the code JO-D.
The aircraft is available for tours, which can
be booked through the museum.
Royal Australian Air Force Association
Display apartment
opened in Bull Creek
The recently fitted-out display apartment
at AFME Bull Creek has received glowing
comments according to Retirement Living
Coordinator Maureen Winton.
“Many people find it difficult to picture
what an apartment would be like when
they see only the floors and bare walls
or are looking at the plans of Orion
Terraces, which is currently under
construction. Furnishing and dressing this
apartment instantly gives visitors a precise
understanding of just how large and wellappointed our apartments are,” Maureen
said.
“Comments we’ve received have been highly
complimentary about the apartments in
general and there is no doubt that people
who have visited the display have gone away
with a clear appreciation of the benefits of
living here.”
The two bedroom two bathroom
apartment with a separate study on level 2
of Mirage Terraces overlooks the bowling
greens with outlooks to Lake Howard on
the estate and to the new Fiona Stanley
hospital further south.
The display apartment is one of only a few
that remain available in Mirage Terraces.
Contact Maureen Winton on 9311 4488
to view the display.
Opening of the display has led to more
sales of apartments in Orion Terraces
where nearly 40% have been reserved.
Apartments in Orion Terraces are all two
bedroom two bathroom with separate study
or study area. They are also slightly larger
than similarly configured apartments in the
Mirage Terraces building.
Maureen Winton says the security afforded
by apartment living, together with the
camaraderie residents are enjoying, are big
plusses attracting plenty of interest.
“Buyer feedback also shows that the ability
to participate in the capital growth of
these apartments has been very favourably
received,” she added.
Apartments can be secured with a deposit
of just $5,000 plus a $550 processing
fee for legal and administrative costs. The
current purchase price less the deposit is
payable when the apartments are ready to
be occupied.
Orion Terraces apartments are priced from
$715,000 to $749,000.
A few apartments remain available in
Mirage Terraces priced from $555,000 to
$675,000.
To view the display apartment, or arrange
a meeting to discuss your future retirement
living, contact Maureen on 9311 4488.
You are welcome to bring friends or
relatives.
Maureen would also be pleased to send
you, or others, an information kit – just
give her a call and she will post one.
Work on the Orion Terraces site started
around mid 2012. The basement car park is
now built along with the concrete floor of
the Podium level.
The construction program sees the
building ready for occupancy in the
second half of 2014.
This gives new residents time to arrange
the sale of their current home should they
need to. If requested, purchase contracts
can include a clause making the apartment
purchase subject to the sale of the home.
Gordon Bailey –
Aircrew Trainee
By Charles Page
71st Anniversary
of the Bombing of
Darwin
Sunday, 17 February 2013
You are invited to join us for the
annual ceremony marking the 71st
Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin
(19/02/1942).
The ceremony will be held at the
Memorial Wall, Air Force Memorial
Estate, Bull Creek
Sunday, 17 February 2013
commencing at 9.00am.
The ceremony will include the laying of
crosses by invited guests and Branch
Presidents, a short address by Mrs Olga
Garden, Darwin Wharfies representative
and will be followed by tea and coffee in
Langley Hall.
Medals may be worn.
Please advise your attendance by
Friday, 8 February to Julie Stearne on
9311 4449 or
jstearne@raafawa.org.au.
Along with many others I volunteered to serve our country
in WWII. I enlisted in the Air Training Corps in 1944 and
was discharged in 1947.
During this period I was employed as an apprentice with
a Perth building company, carrying out works for the
Commonwealth Department of Interior. I was sent to work
on a secret RAAF base at Corunna Downs, known as 73
Operational Base Unit.
Corunna Downs was situated 32 miles south-east of Marble
Bar and was used by the B24 Liberators of The United States
Army Air Force, and No 25 Squadron RAAF. The bombers
would take off at sundown to bomb areas around Java,
Surabaya, and other Japanese occupied islands.
During weekends, as I was a member of the ATC, I was
permitted to fly in an Avro Anson to Broome, Port Hedland,
Pot Shot (Exmouth Gulf) and various other RAAF and Army
bases.
I was at Corunna Downs for over six months, before
returning to Perth.
In March 1945 I was sent to the RAAF base at Port
Hedland. I was there for six months constructing a radio
communication building on the base. Again, during weekends,
I flew in RAAF aircraft to Broome, Corunna Downs and Pot
Shot to pick up supplies, and drop supplies to Army bases.
On one of my flights from Pot Shot to Port Hedland, we
landed at Yanrey RAAF airstrip to deliver supplies to the
L to R ATC Cadets Gordon Bailey and Don Grace
station owner. After taking off again for Port Hedland, the
pilot P/O John Bailey gave me a compass course to fly, and
he and the Sgt Wireless Air Gunner went to the middle of the
Anson to have a sleep.
With me in control (17 years old), I took the aircraft up to
12,000 feet. When John Bailey woke up to take over flying
the aircraft, he said we were a little too high, and proceeded
to take the Anson down for low flying and kangaroo shooting.
The Sergeant WAG went to the nose of the Anson with a .303
rifle. As we flew up and down over rugged hills and rough
terrain, the Sgt WAG tried to shoot several kangaroos, but
with the speed of the aircraft and the bounding kangaroos, he
didn’t hit any. At the end of the flight he entered in his flight
log book the number of .303 rounds he had fired.
On 15 August 1945, I was in the air between Port Hedland
and Onslow, when the radio operator received a message that
Japan had surrendered and the war in the Pacific was over. An
hour later we landed at Onslow, which was used as a refuelling
base for US and British submarines.
When the radio communication building was completed at
Port Hedland, I returned to Perth and remained in No 75
Squadron, No 5 Wing of the Air Training Corps at No 1 St
Georges Terrace, Perth until early 1947.
February / March 2013
AIR MAIL
Page 7
A IR M AIL
Julian Chapel
celebrates
its 10th
anniversary
By Desborough Wright, OAM
How short a decade seems to be! This
thought was expressed by several long term
worshippers at the recent celebration of the
10 years that have elapsed since the Julian
Chapel in Cambrai Village was consecrated.
On Wednesday, 20 November 2002 the
Battle of Cambrai, from which our village
takes its name, was commemorated at
the village memorial wall followed by the
dedication of the Julian Chapel to “the
greater glory of god and to those men and
women who offered themselves to serve
Australia during peace and war”.
Why Julian? Many people have queried the
choice of name over the past decade and this
was raised again in the Address at the recent
anniversary. The foundation committee, under
the chairmanship of Frank Pimm, wanted a
name that would be ecumenical. Opinions
of residents were canvassed and most of
these contained the name “Julian” so the
Chapel Committee adopted the name, “Julian
Chapel.”
Julian of Norwich, was not a saint but a 14th
Century mystic. For about 45 years she lived
in a cell attached to the Church of St Julian
The Hospitalier in the City of Norwich
in England. In 1373, she received a series
10th anniversary congregation
of revelations from God which became the
basis of a book she wrote entitled, “The
Revelations of Divine Love”. Julian left us
many sayings, one of the most memorable
and comforting being, “.....firmly trust in
Him and all shall be well.....”. Not only were
Julian’s writings of religious significance but
they also gave us a connection with the City
of Cambrai in France. The name, “Julian”
gives us a link between our religious and
commemorative practices in Cambrai Village.
At the end of the first decade in the life of
the Julian Chapel it is rewarding to look back
to that day in 2002 when, with its naming
and consecration, it became part of our
religious life in the Cambrai community.
During the ensuing years additions have
been made to the chapel. Many residents
have donated items and their generosity is
recorded in the donations book. Perhaps
the most noticeable change from those early
days is in the splendour of the stained glass
windows. The large square windows in the
nave and chancel were designed and installed
by Cambrai resident, Brian Thompson, who
created in glass, scenes of lasting beauty and
meaning.
During the past decade a number of regular
worshippers and other residents have died.
Their names have been faithfully recorded in
the Memorial Book retained in the chapel.
Services are held regularly by Anglican,
Catholic and the Cambrai Christian
Fellowship congregations, together with
ecumenical worship on special occasions.
Many residents use the chapel as a sanctuary
where they can spend a quiet time away from
the pressures of the world.
It was of no surprise that a full congregation
attended our commemoration of Julian
Chapel’s 10th Anniversary on Tuesday, 20
November 2012. Rev David Oxley and
his wife Eileen were our special guests and
Monique Baylis, Administrative Assistant,
represented our Estate Manager who was
overseas. The current Chairman of the
Chapel Committee, Mr Will De Smedt
welcomed the congregation and asked them
to remain seated throughout the service,
an unusual gesture, but perhaps for many a
thoughtful concession to growing infirmity.
Father Andrew Albis, a local Catholic parish
priest led the service and in his Address
dwelt mainly on the writings of Julian and
particularly on her assurance to us that “all
shall be well” in our daily lives. The various
hymns and prayers were chosen by the three
Christian denominations that frequently use
the chapel for their services and were sung
with vitality. The final one, “To God be the
Glory” summed up why we were there.
After the service, the congregation adjourned
to the Community Centre for refreshments
and fellowship. During this social gathering
short speeches were made by Will De Smedt
and Rev David Oxley. An anniversary cake
was provided and ceremonially cut by Pastor
Len Ogilvie-Mitchell who has served on the
Chapel Committee from its inception and
still continues his ministry to the Christian
Fellowship congregation of Cambrai Village.
Today, Julian Chapel is very much part
of Cambrai Village and its various
congregations contribute to the rich fabric
of the village’s communal nature. In time,
today’s worshippers will pass on while
others will come and carry on in this
treasured place. New thoughts and ideas
will emerge in the wider community with
which the congregations of the time will
have to address. They will build on the firm
foundations that we have laid, and may they
always be mindful of the assurance of Julian
of Norwich:
“He loves us and enjoys us, so He wills that
we love Him, and firmly trust in Him and
all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all
manner of things shall be well”.
Merriwa Fete DVA adds more online
By Joyce Johnson
Merriwa held its annual fete on Sunday, 18
November. Many volunteers came together to make this
a great success with many varied stalls selling everything
from toys, clothes, bric-a-brac, food, books, household
goods and furniture.
A sausage sizzle, morning tea and cool drinks kept the
customers well fed while merry-go-rounds, jumping castle
and laughing clowns kept them entertained.
We raised $23,000 to help with projects around the
estate for 2013.
services
Acknowledgement: Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Thousands of Department of Veterans’ Affairs
(DVA) clients have registered to use DVA’s new online
service, MyAccount.
From December 2012 additional services for
MyAccount were added and members are now able
to download a variety of letters including pension
statements, income and asset statements, concession
letters and Medicare levy exemption letters. MyAccount
members will also be able to submit and monitor their
feedback to the Department.
“Being able to download statements and letters means
our clients can quickly access documents they need for
proof of income and concession eligibility” a DVA
spokesperson said, “making it easier to manage their
affairs”.
Page 8
AIR MAIL
February / March 2013
“Being able to submit and monitor feedback provided to
the Department will give clients the ability to track their
feedback - compliments, complaint or suggestions – and
check on its progress.”
“Ex-Service Organisations and Serving members have
responded enthusiastically to the choice and convenience
of online services and feedback from our clients has
indicated that once registered MyAccount is easy to
use.”
“MyAccount will not replace traditional means of
communicating with DVA. You can still contact DVA
by phone, fax, email, mail and face-to-face.”
Visit myaccount.dva.gov.au for more information and
phone 133 254 (local) or 1800 555 254 (regional)
during business hours Monday to Friday to activate
your account.
Royal Australian Air Force Association
A decade of service Dispatches from
your Da Nang remembered forty
correspondent...
years on
Acknowledgement: Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Vietnam. Of these men, some 200 lost
their lives.
On 11 January, forty years ago,
Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam
War ended with then GovernorGeneral, Sir Paul Hasluck, proclaiming
the cessation of hostilities after more
than a decade of fighting.
”It is important that we remember
the Navy clearance divers, helicopter
and ships’ crews who along with a
number of RAAF squadrons, provided
vital fire support, vessel clearance,
evacuation and resupply missions as
well as essential transport, medical and
logistics support.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Warren
Snowdon urged all Australians to
take time to remember the more than
60,000 men and women who served in
Vietnam from 1962 to 1972.
“We especially remember the sacrifice
of more than 500 Australians who died
in Vietnam and the more than 3,000
who were wounded and many more
who continued to suffer the effects of
the conflict long after coming home.
“This anniversary is a timely reminder
of the courage and resilience displayed
by the Royal Australian Navy, the
Army and the Royal Australian Air
Force (RAAF), as well as civilians, who
bravely went to Vietnam in an effort
to stem the communist threat in South
East Asia,” he said.
Australia’s military involvement in the
Vietnam War commenced in July 1962
with the dispatch of the Australian
Army Training Team Vietnam, in a
bid to assist the Government in South
Vietnam.
Many Australians served under the
National Service Scheme, introduced
in 1964 as a way to increase the size
of Australian Forces. The scheme
was highly controversial among the
Australian public and saw more than
15,000 National Servicemen serving in
“The Vietnam War caused great social
and political discontent in Australia
and in other participating countries.
Some soldiers returned home to hostile
receptions and never fully recovered
from their physical and psychological
wounds.
“The Labor Government, under Prime
Minister Gough Whitlam, oversaw the
end of Australia’s involvement in the
conflict and later that year abolished
the National Service Scheme.
“Today, the Australian Government is
committed to ensuring the treatment
endured by many Vietnam veterans after
the war never happens again, that the
service and sacrifice of those who wear
Australia’s uniform are not forgotten,”
Mr Snowdon said.
A range of support services are available
through the Australian Government
including a service founded with
the support of Vietnam veterans the Veterans and Veterans Families
Counselling Service (VVCS).
VVCS provides 24-hour crisis
counselling and is available freecall
on 1800 011 046 to veterans of
all conflicts, peacekeepers, and their
families.
By Ted McEvoy
The only other time I have been in Viet
Nam in the month of October was during
my Government sponsored junket of
1968.
In those times peace, happiness and good
will to all men (and women) was in very
short supply. For most of us ex-military
Vietnam Veterans’, all we wanted to do
was to survive, get out of the place in one
piece and return to Australia.
Therefore, for me, it was a very pleasant
surprise to discover that today, 20 October
is a very special day in the Vietnamese
calendar, “Womens’ Day”. The Vietnamese
also celebrate International Womens’ Day
which is held on 8 March each year, but it
does not share the same significance as 20
October.
On this special day, the country recognises
the important contribution all women
have made to the progress of this beautiful
country.
On many corners and along the main
roads of all cities and villages you will see
numerous flower sellers displaying their
floral creations. These are purchased by
the people passing by on their bicycles,
motorbikes and even some on foot, to be
presented to an important lady in their
life with the words “Chuc mung ngay phu
nu Viet Nam” which means “Happy Viet
Nam Womens’ Day”.
When I suggested to some Vietnamese
friends that I thought every day should be
Womens’ Day, the ladies eagerly agreed
with me, but the men gave me a polite
smile as to say yeah – whatever.
As in many cultures, it’s the man who
thinks he is the boss cocky in the hen
house but, in fact, it’s the woman, the wife
or the mother, who rules the roost. Us
blokes are slow learners!!!!
Flowers are a very important part of the
Vietnamese culture and are used in many
ceremonies such as births, marriages,
funerals, Tet (the Vietnamese New Year),
etc. The variety of the species and the
colours are a feast for the eyes. In every
market in Viet Nam you will see many
flower sellers with a huge variety of
arrangements on display at incredibly
cheap prices.
The city of Đà Lat is situated in the
central highlands of Viet Nam and is
perched 1,500m (5,000ft) above sea level.
With its year-round cool weather, Đà
Lat cultivates many temperate vegetable
and flower products for supply to all of
Viet Nam. The Đà Lat strawberries are a
delight to die for, sweet, plump and with
deep red flesh throughout the fruit.
The Đà Lat roses are an especially
beautiful flower and come in all sorts of
colours and shades, such as red, pink,
velvet and yellow. Đà Lat brides love to
decorate their weddings with the local
white roses.
Some of the many other flower species
cultivated in Đà Lat include Hydrangea,
Gerberas, Peach Blossom, Orchids,
Mimosa, Flame Tree, Gladiola and Pansies.
If you have never visited this beautiful
country in peacetime, I would strongly
suggest you do so and soon!! The people
are polite, very friendly and hospitable.
What a great country!!!!!!
Consul-General of Japan visits
The Consul-General of Japan, Mr Tatsuo Ishikawa and his
wife Rieko made a visit to the Aviation Heritage Museum
during December to view the Red Cross Flag and discover
some of its background.
The handmade flag bears 11 Japanese officers’ names from the
Japanese Army’s 48th Cavalry Division which served in the
Timor area. It is believed it was signed in gratitude by the
Japanese officers held as POW’s at the end of WWII.
L to R – Charles Geddes, Reiko Ishikawa, Maureen Tame, Charles Cugley, and Tatsuo Ishikawa
Museum volunteer Charles Cugley has forged friendships
across Australia and Japan through his research and
knowledge about the flag. Charles Cugley together with
Division Councillor, Charles Geddes had the pleasure of
showing Mr Ishikawa and his wife around the museum,
providing background information and stories about many of
the interesting displays.
February / March 2013
AIR MAIL
Page 9
A IR M AIL
Notes From Branches and Groups
AAFC Branch
Del Willmott
Upcoming events
Sunday, 17 February, Commemoration of the
Bombing of Darwin, AFME, Bull Creek.
Saturday, 23 March, 92nd Anniversary of the
formation of the RAAF, Kings Park.
Saturday, 13 April, RAAFA Annual Dinner,
Bull Creek. We hope we can make up several
tables and enable our members to enjoy
the dinner as a group. Partners and friends
welcome. Mark the date in your diary.
May, Shooting Day. Date and venue to be
arranged. This will include a competition
between our Branch members and serving
cadets and instructors of the AAFC.
ACS Branch
Val Lopaten
RAAFA Life Membership
On 9 December at the our Christmas
Luncheon our member and Division
Councillor, Bill Anderson, presented the
award of Life Membership to Raymond
Allan Smith. Very well deserved Ray.
Lancaster dinner
Jarrah Ridge Winery tasting
RAAFA Life Membership
1 December saw the Lancaster as the centre
of attention for a dinner as we celebrated
her 50th year since she arrived in Perth.
The Branch used the occasion to award
Tiger Trophies to members Lyall Bell and
Doug Oliver for their volunteer works.
Unfortunately Doug was not present.
5 December saw approx. 60 residents enjoy
the many different wines, cheeses and olives
that the Jarrah Ridge Winery brought for
our tasting. It was hard to decide which to
choose but most managed to purchase their
favourite.
The highlight of the day was the presentation
of RAAFA Life Membership to Graeme
Coventry, in recognition of his outstanding
service to the Association over many years.
Upcoming events
Thursday, 14 February, Branch Meeting, Ev
Nicholls Room, 7.00pm.
Cambrai Village Residents
Branch
Bob Cotton
Branch Committee
The new Branch committee consists of the
following.
Frank Pimm - President
Maureen Farrell - Vice President
Errol Raftos - Treasurer
Bob Cotton - Secretary
Committee - Bill Rae, Laurie Hassett, Peter
Roche, June Graham, Paddy Elliott and Rob
Lyon.
City of Perth
AAFC
Peter Fardon
The participation by our ACS Branch in
the Graduation Parade of the local 707 Sqn
Australian Air Force Cadets on 15 December
was much appreciated. The Danny Rees
Award for 2012 was presented to CSGT A
Napier.
Generally the branch activity programme is
progressing very well with a large number of
our members attending and taking part in the
various activities.
Upcoming events
Thursday, 21 February, Annual BYO Picnic
& General Meeting at North Dandalup Dam.
This will be the first event in a very relaxed
programme of meetings and functions for the
year. Check with the Secretary on 9535 7830 if you are not the “full bottle”.
Aviation Museum Branch
The Branch wishes all members a Happy
New Year and that it will bring with it a fresh
breath of co-operation in our organisation.
October Mini Mart
Trading was reasonably brisk but the
possibility of rain, which happened around
11.30am, kept a lot of customers at home.
The income was slightly less than previous
Mini Marts but, in all, a very satisfying
exercise.
A well attended jazz session held in the
Langely Hall was a huge success and the
Branch also benefited from this event. A
brisk trade was running for the raffle tickets,
with interest shown in the band’s CD’s.
The band was very good and the variety
of music, being predominantly jazz was
appreciated by all those who attended.
AIR MAIL
February / March 2013
New Years Eve
To end the year over 70 residents saw in
2013 with a party in the Community Centre
being entertained by Southern Express, a
great Country band that had many dancing
into the wee small hours.
Erskine Grove Residents Branch
Children’s Xmas Party
97 excited children received presents from
Santa, while Mums, Dads and Grandparents
enjoyed a sausage sizzle and Devonshire tea.
The children were entertained by a fabulous
magician, tried their hand at craft and enjoyed
the bouncy castle and merry-go-round.
Thanks to all the organisers and helpers.
Thursday, 21 February, General Meeting.
Thursday, 28 February, Drakesbrook Weir,
Waroona BYO Lunch. Travel by luxury
coach and enjoy a coffee stop on the way and
a shopping stop in Pinjarra on the return trip
for approx $15 for the outing. Please contact
Hugh Brett (9582 5043 or 5043) to book
your seat.
Wednesday, 13 February, revised date for half
yearly Branch General Meeting.
Thursday, 18 April, General Meeting.
Wednesday, 20 February, Quiz Night
following Happy Hour at 6.30pm.
Saturday, 16 March, Lamb Dinner, combining
celebration for St Patrick’s Day and Easter.
European Area Branch
Tuesday, 23 April, Gravity Discovery Centre
at Gingin. Travel by luxury coach and enjoy a
2 course lunch, entrance, coffee and cake for
$50 per head.
Merriwa Residents Branch
Joyce Johnson
Jo Naylor
Mudlarks
Best wishes for a happy and healthy new year to
all Branch members, to our RAAFA colleagues
and to all RAAFA staff.
The Mudlarks held their second
performance for the year over three Monday
nights in November. Their performance
bought tears and laughter to the audience
and covered a varied repertoire which
displayed their many talents. A fun night was
had by both audience and performers alike,
while a great meal was consumed as well.
Upcoming events
Thursday, 16 May, Social Meeting at
RAAFA Estate Meadow Springs, followed
by lunch. For those requiring transport bus
departs Bull Creek underground carpark
10.00am.
Upcoming events
Thursday, 21 March, Executive Meeting.
The first gathering for 2013 was a Fellowship
Lunch at the AFA Club.
Thursday, 21 March, Social Luncheon,
Lynwood Arms Hotel, 12noon. Bus departs
Bull Creek underground carpark at 11.30am.
We welcomed two new members, Isobel
Billing and Thomas Willis. This brings our
total membership to 230. A very enjoyable
sausage sizzle followed the meeting.
Upcoming events
Fellowship lunch
Joyce Hall
October Jazz
Early December the residents donated
over 100 gifts for our annual appeal for
disadvantage children, which Erskine Grove
Chapel deliver to the Salvation Army for
distribution. Thanks to all who contributed.
Our first meeting in 2013 is on 6 February
when we revert to a 7.30pm start. It would
be good to see more Branch members
attending our monthly meetings, which
always end with a convivial social hour. New
members are most welcome. Secretary Jo
Naylor can be contacted on 9481 0042,
0439 440 119 or jive125@iprimus.com.au.
The branch changed the format and
programme for this ceremony and together
with an excellent seating arrangement and
refreshments at the conclusion, we had an
attendance of over 50 people. We would like
to thank those who participated.
Upcoming events
John Harris
Page 10
Remembrance Day ceremony
Salvation Army Appeal
December General Meeting
Christmas carols
Wednesday, 6 February, Branch Meeting,
Meg Olive Room, 7.30pm.
On 2 December we were privileged to have
the Salvation Army Band entertain us with
renditions of Christmas carols and mash-ups
to keep our minds alert. The concert was
great fun and appreciated by all those who
attended.
Wednesday, 6 March, Branch Meeting, Meg Olive Room, 7.30pm.
Christmas Dinner
Wednesday, 3 April, Branch Meeting, Meg Olive Room, 7.30pm.
Wednesday, 1 May, Branch Meeting, Meg Olive Room, 7.30pm.
Mandurah Branch
The Resident’s Xmas dinner was held on
Wednesday, 5 December. Again the kitchen
staff excelled with excellent food and service
while we had Jay Weston to entertain us.
A great fun night was had by all with a
visit from a quartet of singing Santa’s to
distribute lollies among the young and not
so young.
Ruth Poat
Volunteers’ afternoon tea
Christmas lunch
An afternoon tea was held on 11 December
as a thank you to all of those people who
donate their time and energies to volunteer
in various capacities within the village
and lodges. Without these volunteers
many services would not occur and many
organisations would not function so a fitting
thank you was welcomed by all.
A very successful Christmas lunch was held
on 7 December, 2012. Thanks to Lorraine
and her staff for their efforts. Guests
were the State President, Graeme Bland
and his wife Judy, and Craig and Liz Boyd
representing DVA, with entertainment by
‘Purple Haze’.
continued on page 9
Royal Australian Air Force Association
Cambrai Club
Meadow Springs Club
Bull Creek AFA Club
Merriwa Club
Phone: 9304 5401
Phone: 9582 5375
Phone: 9311 4460
Phone: 9400 3640
Trading Hours
Trading Hours
Trading Hours
Trading Hours
Tuesday
4.00pm to 8.00pm Fish and Chips/
Pot Luck
Monday
11.30am to 2.30pm Bar
12noon to 2.00pm Lunches
Monday
11.30am to 6.00pm Bar
Wednesday
10.00am to 11.00am Morning Tea
4.00pm to 5.00pm Happy Hour
6.00pm to 8.30pm Dinner
Tuesday and Thursday
11.30am to 6.00pm Bar
12noon to 2.00pm Lunches
Tuesday
12noon to 2.00pm Bar
5.00pm to 8.00pm Bluegum
Restaurant
Friday
12noon to 1.30pm Lunch - 3rd Friday
of the month – offal lunch as well as
counter meals)
5.00pm to 8.00pm Sundowner - 2nd
Friday of the month February/March)
6.00pm to 9.00pm Bistro/Theme
Night Happy Hour – 4th Friday of
the month February/March
(subject to change – contact bar staff)
Contact Club Supervisor/Head
Chef on 9304 5401 from 8.00am
to 4.00pm, Monday to Friday for
bookings or information.
Wednesday
11.30am to approx 9.00pm Bar
12noon to 2.00pm Lunches
Friday
11.30am to 6.00pm Bar
Till late on Restaurant nights
Saturday and Sunday
Ring bar for details
Tasty Tuesday lunch special $10.00 Fish and Chips
Kitchen fire
Unfortunately our Xmas Day lunch was
cancelled due to a fire in the air conditioning
units in the kitchen on Saturday, 22
December. Fast action by staff limited the
damage and saved the building. The staff and
their helpers selflessly pitched in to clean the
debris so the kitchen could be up and running
as soon as possible.
The damaged kitchen however did not
prevent the New Year’s Eve celebrations from
taking place. A great night was had by all with
Shindig providing the entertainment.
Australia Day will see our regular Aussie
breakfast being served for residents and
friends at RAAFA Merriwa.
WAAAF Branch
June Perry
Upcoming events
Monday, 11 February, General Meeting, Meg
Olive Room, 10.30am.
Monday, 11 March, 72nd Annual Reunion
Luncheon, Langley Hall, 12noon. All details
regarding menu, cost etc will be in the February
editions of the Village Chatter and Esprit.
WRAAF Branch
Judy Bland
The Branch extends New Year greetings to all.
Upcoming events
Tuesday, 5 February, General Meeting, Meg
Olive Room, 7.30 pm.
Friday
11.30am to 10.00pm Bar
Saturday
3.00pm to 6.00pm Bar
Sunday and Public Holidays - Closed
Counter meals
11.30am to 1.30pm Monday to Friday
Lunch specials
Monday roast of the day and Tuesday
fish and chips
Wednesday
12noon to 2.00pm Bar
4.00pm to 6.00pm Bar
4.30pm to 5.30pm Happy Hour
Thursday
10.00am to 11.00am Morning Tea
12noon to 2.00pm Bar
4.00pm to 6.00pm Bar
Friday
12noon to 2.00pm Bar
4.00pm to 6.00pm Bar
5.00pm till late Bistro
Chase the Ace, Bingo & Horse
Racing
4.00pm to 5.30pm Monday
Saturday
12noon to 6.00pm Bar
2.00pm to 3.30pm Afternoon Tea
5.00pm to 8.00pm Wednesday, meal
available.
A la Carte
Counter meals
Friday specials
1st Friday of the month, Fish, Chips
and Salad Bar $15.00.
Merriwa Residents Branch continued
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday
11.30am to 3.00pm Bar
2nd Friday of the month, A la Carte
menu in Beaufort Restaurant. New
menu each month prepared by our
chef. Meals start at $18.50 for mains,
entrée and dessert available.
For all bookings call 9582 5375.
Chase the Ace
A la Carte night in Wings Restaurant
Friday Dinner Dance
Raffles on sale from 5.00pm
Dinner 5.30pm to 7.00pm
Band roster
1st Friday – Colin & Muriel
Tuesday to Saturday, last orders taken
1.30pm daily.
Bluegum Restaurant (please book)
Tuesday Theme Night, different two
course menu every week.
4th Wednesday Offal Club, 12noon to 2.00pm
2nd Friday – John Calander
Friday Night Bistro
3rd Friday – Colin & Muriel
4th Friday – Tony & Fanny Hung
Orders taken from 5.30pm to 7.00pm
Raffles, lucky wheel and horse racing.
5th Friday – No Dance
Saturday
Fish and Chip lunchtime special
Bingo, main hall
Tuesday, 5 March, BBQ at Judy’s, Unit 201
AFME, from 6.30pm. Further details in
WRAAF Newsletter.
Tuesday, 2 April, General Meeting, Meg
Olive Room, 7.30pm.
Tuesday, 7 May, General Meeting, Meg Olive
Room, 7.30pm.
Youth Club
Alan Rye
We always welcome new members. For
further details contact Alan Rye on 9311 4353.
Upcoming events
Sunday, 10 February, Monthly Meeting, Meg
Olive Room, 10.00am to 11.30am. Please
note different date.
Sunday, 17 March, Monthly Meeting, Meg
Olive Room, 10.00am to 11.30am.
Sunday, 21 April, Monthly Meeting, Meg
Olive Room, 10.00am to 11.30am.
Saturday 27 April & Sunday 28 April, Engine
Course. We will let you know details in the
Youth Club Newsletters.
Youth Club
2nd Wednesday, eyes down 7.30pm
By Alan Rye
We had a great day at our
Christmas barbecue party on 16
December at Piney Lakes. We had
a lovey shady spot not far from the
lake and ducks where we could relax
and enjoy a game of cricket, golf
putting and various other activities.
It was great that many of the mums,
dads and families could join us for
the celebrations. This is the second
year we have had the party in this
beautiful park.
We look forward to seeing you back
in the New Year.
SUBMISSIONS
FOR AIR MAIL
1 March for April/May issue
3 May for June/July/August issue
2 August for September issue
All Scribes, please note that articles
of interest are always welcome and
Branch Notes can be submitted for
all issues. You are most welcome to
submit prior to the deadline.
February / March 2013
AIR MAIL
Page 11
Health and wellness
Healthy New Year’s resolution Mental
wellbeing
A IR M AIL
Acknowledgement: Dr G Killer, Principal Medical Adviser,
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
The New Year is traditionally a time for
taking stock, reflecting on the past year and
making resolutions for the year ahead. If
your health is your main concern, you may be
thinking it’s a good time to see your doctor
for a check-up. However, your health is largely
in your own hands, and the only person who
can put healthy habits into practice is you.
Taking control of your health has many
benefits. One of the main contributors to
stress is feeling out of control. If you blame
your partner, your income, your job or your
family for your poor health then your stress
levels will soar. Taking control will reduce
your stress and, in turn, increase your sense
of wellbeing.
There’s another important issue we need to
think about that contributes to poor health,
and it’s called sitting. When you think about
it, we sit most of the time. We sit getting
to work, we sit at our desks at work, we sit
when we eat and we sit watching TV. Too
much sitting is a health hazard, and a good
New Year’s resolution is to move more: look
for opportunities to walk, stand and be
active.
We all need a better balance in our lives.
A weekly routine of healthy eating, regular
exercise and social contact will enhance your
health, energy levels and enjoyment of life.
Involving other people in your New Year’s
resolution is a good idea: start a daily walk
with a friend, join a healthy cooking class or
challenge a mate to give up smoking or cut
back on the alcohol.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs
(DVA) has a wealth of healthy ideas and
information: visit www.dva.gov.au and search
for ‘health & wellbeing’. There’s information
about Day Clubs in your local area, where to
find interesting physical and social activities,
a wealth of mental health resources and
much more. You can also
call DVA on 133 254, or
1800 555 254
from regional
Australia.
Finally, let’s be
positive about
ourselves and who we
are because, in reality, we are
very well off. It’s a truism
that it’s much easier to
complain than to applaud.
Meeting different people and forming
new friendships can help you feel good and
improve your health and well being.
Regular social activity will:
•
•
•
reduce feelings of loneliness and
boredom
allow you to share your experiences
(hopefully) make you smile
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
join a special interest or hobby club eg.
craft, gardening, sporting
contact a volunteer’s organisation and
help others
ask a friend to join you in an outing
develop some social routines to give you
some things to look forward to
invite family or friends to your home for
a meal
join an exercise class or a walking group
learn a new skill or hobby
find out what your local community
offers ie. groups, resources, services etc.
9304 5280 / 9400 3778
Cambrai Village &
RAAFA Merriwa Estate
Central
Carena Harvey 9311 4562
AFME Bull Creek
Page 12
AIR MAIL
•
Physical activity is one of the most important
things you can do to maintain your physical
and mental health, and quality of life.
•
•
•
30 minutes on most days – that’s all it takes!
•
30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity
can reduce your risk of developing lifestyle
diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type
II diabetes and osteoporosis.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
give you more energy
reduce stress and anxiety
improve concentration
help you to sleep better
help you to relax
reduce your risk of dementia
help you to meet people and make new
friends
help you to move with fewer aches and
pains
increase your bone strength
help you control body weight
reduce your risk for falls and injuries
choose activities that you enjoy
start with a warmup and finish with
a cool down
moderate-intensity activity will
give you health benefits – you don’t need
to “puff and pant”
drink lots of water – before, during and
after activity
look for simple ways to incorporate
activity into your day (incidental
activity). For example, walk to the shops
instead of driving, do some gardening.
Check the DVA website for more ideas and
access to information and resources or call
the Department of Health and Ageing on
1800 500 853
Age is not a barrier
to learning new
skills, meeting
people and having
a good time!
Helen MacBeth 9582 5369
Erskine Grove
& RAAFA Estate
Meadow Springs
South West
Di van Clarke 9841 8311
RAAFA Amity
Village Albany
e aims to:
ic
rv
e
S
re
a
lf
e
W
The
ERS to maintain
B
M
E
M
LL
A
t
is
* Ass
lity of life
and improve qua
ntain
* Encourage & mai
independence
ion & referrals
* Provide informat
ices to assist
* Link you to serv eds.
with individual ne
feel good about yourself and your life
be able to respond constructively to
stress in your life
be able to cope with things that
come up in your life
improve self-esteem and confidence
What you can do:
•
South
February / March 2013
•
•
What you can do:
RAAFA Welfare Team
North
Maintaining good mental health
can enable you to:
Physical activities
Regular activity will:
What you can do:
Good mental health and a positive frame of
mind often means you are better equipped
to resist stress and tackle challenges.
•
Physical and social activities
Acknowledgement: Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Acknowledgement: Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Everybody has “mental health”, just
like we have “physical health”. You can
do things to keep yourself healthy, both
mentally and physically.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Learn new ways to cope with
problems in everyday life
Talk about your feelings and
problems
Eat a well-balanced diet
Participate in regular exercise
Develop personal skills that help
you deal with people and other
situations (eg. problem solving and
assertiveness)
Find things to do that you enjoy
Ask for help if you think you need
professional support
Drink sensibly
Be active for your mental health
Participating in regular physical activity is
good for your mental health. It can:
•
•
•
•
Reduce anxiety
Positively affect moods such as
tension, fatigue and anger
Enhance self esteem
Provide opportunities for social
activity and interaction