The Spirit 3 2010 - Royal Australian Regiment Corporation

“The
Spirit”
Duty First
The Newsletter of
The Royal Australian Regiment Association
Queensland Division, Inc
Keeping the Spirit Alive
Issue No: 3 2010
Merry Christmas and have a safe and
prosperous New Year
Publishing Information:
We have in preparing this newsletter used our best endeavours to ensure that the information contained in this newsletter is true and accurate, but accept no
responsibility and disclaim all liability in respect of any errors, omissions, inaccuracies or misstatements contained in this newsletter.
www.rar.org.au
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
NORTH QUEENSLAND REPORT
At the end of the year and the beginning of another it
is an opportune time to reflect on past events and plans
for the future. 2010 has been a busy year with the
handover from Ted Chitham as President of the RAR
Queensland (RARQ), the Federal Election and Fair Go
Campaign.
I acknowledge the good work of Ted Chitham
in putting RARQ on the map. His enthusiasm and
focus have certainly marked the Qld Branch as the go
to branch across Australia. His wide corporate
knowledge has ensured adherence to good governance
principles and succession planning. Ted has now
become the National Secretary of the RAR
Corporation and I am sure he will put that on a good
footing very quickly.
As for me, taking over as President RARQ has
been an interesting experience. For one who has
served in three battalions of the Regiment, the Pacific
Islands Regiment, the SAS Regiment and as CO 51
FNQR, I feel I bring a broad experience to the task
ahead. My links with the Qld Branch and the National
Memorial Walk go back to when the Walk was merely
an idea in Mick Servos’ mind. I served on the
Organising Committee, chaired by Murry Blake, when
the Walk was being developed. I regularly say a few
words to friends whose plaques are spread throughout
the Walk. Fortunately they don’t reply as they would
have years ago.
The future is exciting for the RAR Association
Queensland. In 2011 I propose that we focus on
membership of the association and battalion
associations in Queensland and develop as a major
player in the advocacy arena. By advocacy I mean
addressing the issues that affect members of the RAR
family here in Queensland. My experience as Chair of
the Queensland Forum of ESO’s (QFE) tells me that
the RARQ certainly play’s a leadership role in these
issues.
We have developed very good relationships
with the battalions in both Gallipoli Barracks and
Lavarack Barracks. It is my intention that we further
develop these relationships and play a major role in
the broad RAR family in Queensland. We can all be
involved by maintaining an awareness of the issues
and concerns of those currently serving, their families
and assist them during these times of demanding
operation deployments.
I would like to thank the members of the RAR
executive and Dad’s Army for being so supportive in
my early days as President. I think we should all look
forward to a bright future as the RARQ continues to
act on behalf of the broad RAR family.
My best wishes for Christmas/New Year
period.
Greetings all, the end of 2010 is fast approaching and the
committee is well on the way to organising our second
Annual dinner to be held at the Townsville RSL as usual,
on the Twelfth of February 2011 1830 for 1900.
Since the current committee has taken over in Aug
2009, the emphasis has been less on supporting the
Memorial walk (although we donated $1,000 in March)
and more on integrating with serving and former serving
members of the Regiment and families. Some of the
highlights were:
Our first go at organising the Dinner. This was
deemed to be a great success with a different format and a
less crowded room and programme. Some changes will be
made next year in such things as the champion soldier
award from each battalion in Townsville. Our thanks go to
those who attended and of course our sponsors.
We supported financially both 1 and 2 RAR for
various fundraisers. We also facilitated the annual ‘Vic
Svensen golf challenge”, which ended in a tie. So the
trophy will be fought over by 3 units when 3 RAR arrive.
Geckos’ family centre was also on the list as was
the “special needs kids” of ADF families in Townsville.
We organised a special train run at the miniature railway
at the causeway.
The highlight of the year was of course a
combined effort by the RAR members, soldiers from
Delta Coy 1 RAR and “Sunrise Rotary Club”.
We combined to do a “Backyard blitz” style make
over of Vic Svensens’ home and yard. Vic has been a
strong financial supporter of the Association and is not
travelling too flash, so we did something for him for a
change. He loves the new product and it has given his
spirits a great lift. We also contributed $500.00 to the
RAR “fair go” campaign.
In all we have spent around $4,500 on these
efforts. Where do our funds come from, well; at the
monthly “diggers lunches” at Townsville RSL we have a
raffle. The lunches have been particularly well supported
this year and as a result we pick up a “few bob”. It would
be nice to see a few more elder statesmen to mix with the
diggers.
The annual dinner is the major fundraiser, as is
support from our sponsor “Signet” they provide 4 tickets
to their Cowboys corporate box twice a year. We raffle
them at the unit Boozer parades. This raises around
$1,000. The units recognize our efforts and in turn present
us with funds raised at unit functions.
Some effort this year has been devoted to the two
battalions on their return from operations. Our interaction
is ongoing whilst some diggers are still “repairing”. The
battalions are now moving back into operational
preparation for continuing operations next year. The NQ
Committee are included as part of unit welfare plans and
activities to prepare members and their families.
Take care
Kel Ryan
2
WARNING ORDER—THE NORTH QLD RAR ANNUAL DINNER—
February 12th 2011—Townsville RSL
Contact: Ewan Cameron on 0417719043 ingalonganursery@bigpond.com
or
Jock Cassidy johncassidy65@hotmail.com (07) 47723535 / 0431355579
PASSING PARADE
Sadly, Another list of warriors, their duty done:
JAMES RICHARD RATCLIFF 3 RAR
COL K S MCKENZIE DSM, OAM. MID 2RAR
William Killick B.E.M 52124 3, 2, & 6 RAR
BRIG PADDY OUTRIDGE 1 & 3 RAR
FREDERICK AMOS GOODRE 3 RAR
RAY HOPPO AKA SKIP 2 RAR/NZ
J WOODS 2 RAR AATTV
STAN BISSET,OAM,MC, MID 2/14 INF BN
DICK WHITTON 1 & 3 RAR
GORDON PHILLIP GRAHAM 1,3,4,& 6 RAR
MORRIE STANLEY RNZA
ARTHUR MALONE
KEITH JOHNSEN 3 RAR
LCPL JARED MACKINNEY 6RAR,
PTE THOMAS DALE 6RAR
PTE GRANT KIRBY 6RAR
REG BAMBLING 2/15 INF BN
REST IN PEACE
WE CAN NEVER FORGET
Are often disproportionate,
To the service that he gives.
While the ordinary Soldier,
Who offered up his all,
Is paid off with a medal
And perhaps a pension, small.
It's so easy to forget them,
For it is so many times
That our Bobs and Jims and Johnnys,
Went to battle, but we know...
It is not the politicians
With their compromise and ploys,
Who won for us the freedom
That our country now enjoys.
Should you find yourself in danger,
With your enemies at hand,
Would you really want some cop-out,
With his ever waffling stand?
Or would you want a Soldier-His home, his country, his kin,
Just a common Soldier,
Who would fight until the end.
He was just a common Soldier,
And his ranks are growing thin,
But his presence should remind us
We may need his like again.
For when countries are in conflict,
We find the Soldier's part
Is to clean up all the troubles
That the politicians start..
If we cannot do him honor
While he's here to hear the praise,
Then at least let's give him homage
At the ending of his days.
Perhaps just a simple headline
In the paper that might say:
"OUR COUNTRY IS IN MOURNING,
A SOLDIER DIED TODAY."
A POEM WORTH READING
He was getting old and paunchy
And his hair was falling fast,
And he sat around the Legion,
Telling stories of the past.
Of a war that he once fought in
And the deeds that he had done,
In his exploits with his buddies;
They were heroes, every one.
And 'tho sometimes to his neighbors
His tales became a joke,
All his buddies listened quietly
For they knew where of he spoke.
But we'll hear his tales no longer,
For ol' Bob has passed away,
And the world's a little poorer
For a Soldier died today.
He won't be mourned by many,
Just his children and his wife.
For he lived an ordinary,
Very quiet sort of life.
He held a job and raised a family,
Going quietly on his way;
And the world won't note his passing,
'Tho a Soldier died today.
When politicians leave this earth,
Their bodies lie in state,
While thousands note their passing,
And proclaim that they were great.
Papers tell of their life stories
From the time that they were young
But the passing of a Soldier
Goes unnoticed, and unsung.
Is the greatest contribution
To the welfare of our land,
Some jerk who breaks his promise
And cons his fellow man?
Or the ordinary fellow
Who in times of war and strife,
Goes off to serve his country
And offers up his life?
The politician's stipend
And the style in which he lives,
3
THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT
CORPORATION [RARC]
INAUGURAL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
18TH – 19TH NOVEMBER 2010
interesting mix of the range of issues that members have
not been able to have addressed through other forums or
ESOs’.
Proposed by RAR Association Queensland
SOTG
Move that the RAR Corporation calls on the Chief of the
Defence Force and the Chief of Army to guarantee that the
three members of SOTG recently charged for an incident
in Afghanistan will receive the full support of the ADF in
responding to the charges. This support is to include, but
not limited to legal, medical, psychological, chaplaincy and
welfare support. Agreed that: these guarantees have
already been given and posted on our Association’s web
site www.rar.org.au then the motion is to be withdrawn. If
not posted then the Corporation is to write to the CDF and
COA seeking them.
SOTG
Move that the RAR Corporation calls upon CDF and the
Chief of Army to explain why it has taken nearly two years
to formally charge three members of SOTG with offences
alleged to have occurred on the evening of 12 February
2009.
Agreed that: this motion be withdrawn following
discussion of the reported facts already made public.
SOTG
Move that the RAR Corporation calls on the CDF and the
Chief of Army to confirm to the Australian public that the
charging of the three former members of SOTG for actions
in Afghanistan nearly two years ago has not adversely
affected the tactical effectiveness of those currently serving
on operations as they close with and kill the enemy.
Agreed that: this motion be withdrawn as the Colonel
Commandant is to be requested to comment on the issue.
Communications
Moved that the RAR Cooperation be tasked to develop
recommended plans to promote the Corporation’s
objectives, achievements and RAR history nationally to the
public and eligible members. The scope of this task, which
covers marketing and communications, should include
print and electronic media.
Agreed that: the Board is to prepare a marketing and
communications strategy for consideration.
Op Resolute
Move that the RAR Corporation call upon the Chief of the
Defence Force to provide due medallic recognition to those
members of the ADF who have participated in OP
RESOLUTE, its predecessor and future like operations by
the award of the Australian Service Medal [ASM] with an
OP RESOLUTE or other agreed clasp.
Agreed: The Board Chairman President is to formally
write to CDF.
Berets
Move that the Executive of the RAR Corporation calls on
the Chief of Army to reconsider the decision to remove the
beret as an authorised form of head dress.
Agreed: The Board Chairman President is to formally
write to the Chief of Army.
Proposed by RAR Association SA Branch
Emergency Relief Trust Fund
A POSITIVE BEGINNING
The RARC met formally for the first time in Randwick
Barracks Sydney on 18-19 November 2010. The meeting
was attended by the leadership of each of the RAR
Associations’ state/territory branches, except the NT and
Tasmania, and the battalion associations except for 7 RAR,
5/7 RAR and 8/9 RAR. Proxies were held for these
Associations. The meeting was chaired by the interim
Chairman of the Corporation, Hori Howard, who is also
the Honorary Colonel of the Regiment and the
Corporation. A good roll up for what will be a defining
event in the history of the Regiment.
WHY DEFINING EVENT?
The RARC is now a nationally incorporated organisation
with the purpose of coordinating the activities of the
members when such coordination is agreed as being
necessary. Yes! That is a bit of gobbledegook so what does
it mean in reality?
When issues arise that have or will have an impact on the
Regiment, the former members of the Regiment and the
extended membership of the Regimental family then the
RARC will act to protect or promote the good name of the
Regiment.
In simple terms it means that the RARC meeting
elected a four man Board of Directors to implement the
agreed Constitution and By-Laws and then debated a series
of motions. This was all done in a businesslike manner and
with no nonsense and it augers well for the future conduct
of the affairs of the Corporation.
WHAT HAPPENED?
(See Ted Chitham’s report on the make up of the new
Board following on from these minutes)
The Constitution and By-Laws are straight forward
documents and provide the necessary guidance for the
Board and the Corporation’s members. It needs to be
understood that its ‘members’ are the RARA state/territory
and battalion associations/corporation entities only. Apart
from its Directors the Corporation does not have
individuals as members. Each of the Corporation’s
members has their own individual classes of members,
over which the Corporation is expressly excluded from
involvement in their governance and management.
The intent is to enable the RARC to be the national
advocate to the Parliament, Government and its
administration on the issues that affect the whole RAR
Family. The Fair Go campaign is a recent example. ByLaw 3 details the purposes. Broadly the Purpose of the
RARC is to foster and represent the interests of the RAR
Family at a National level.
Motions
The motions that were proposed and debated were an
4
Moved that the RAR Corporation’s board be authorised
to prepare a Business Plan with the aim of establishing
the ‘RAR Emergency Relief Trust Fund’ (or other
appropriate name) to provide for members and former
members of the Regiment who are experiencing distress.
Agreed that:
The Board to conduct a feasibility study and prepare
a Business Plan
The approved Plan to be submitted to the RAR
Foundation with the aim of having the
Foundation amend its charter to provide
immediate financial support to former members
of the Regiment and their families.
If the Plan is not approved by the Foundation then
the RAR Corporation develop its own Charitable
Trust and manage this Trust within its own
framework.
Discrimination against RAR members by the Honours
and Awards System
The SA Branch presented a well researched paper on the
awards system and then proposed five [5] well
constructed motions: four related to specific operational
deployments (RCB, Operation Morris Dance/ Operation
Quickstep, Operation Quickstep – Tonja and Papua New
Guinea) and one general case of discrimination .
Each operational motion sought the Colonel Commandant
through the RAR channels to seek the Chief of Army and
CDF’s support for specific service awards related to those
operational deployments.
The Discrimination motion sought the CDF to issue a
new concise ADF policy on awarding the ASM based on
current complex ADF deployments in the year 2010 and
remove discriminatory clauses and allow each claim or
case to be considered on its own merit.
Agreed that: the Colonel Commandant is to take
consultative action. The RARC Board is to monitor
progress and if necessary write to the approving
authorities.
Proposed by 4 RAR Association [QLD]
An Award For Those Killed In Action Or Having Died
Of Wounds
Moved that the government be requested to create the
award of a medal for ADF members and attached persons
who, whilst serving with the Australian Armed Forces,
has been killed, or who has died of wounds received in
armed combat or in peace keeping and peace making
operations or as a result of an act of international
terrorism since 03 September 1945, the official end of
World War Two.
Agreed that: Chairman is to write to Government.
Colonel Commandant to act through RAR channels
Proposed by 5/7 RAR
Australian Volunteer Service Medal
Moved that the government be called upon to recognise
those who have volunteered for military service with the
award of the ‘Australian Volunteer Service Medal
[AVSM].
Agreed that: the Chairman to write to Government.
Colonel Commandant to act through RAR channels
Fair Go Campaign [FGC]
The FGC was a success –to a limited degree,! Some point
are:
THE FGC was successful in getting the issues into the
public arena prior to the 2010 Federal election.
All political parties accepted and committed to is the
issues except the ALP. The ALP maintained its
stance against the major issue of the fairer
indexation method for military superannuation.
The campaign maintained a non partisan stance though
some of the more aggressive veterans’ groups and
individuals became involved in ‘government
bashing and sought to associate the campaign with
their actions.
The campaign highlighted that whilst the intent is to
remain apolitical it has to be done in a political
environment. A juggle certainly.
The FGC has not stopped but rather is continuing.
Trojans’ Trek.
Trojans’ Trek is a program developed by the SA Branch to
assist those who continue to struggle to regain or to
maintain a place in society. It involves fellow former
servicemen guiding those seeking support. It is conducted
over a seven day period in an isolated setting i.e. being
removed from the distractions of society and sharing
experiences, having an understanding ear to open up to and
‘shooting the breeze’
It is a successful program that the SA Branch is seeking to
conduct in other states. It is sourcing funding from a range
of avenues to expand the program. A summary of the
program will be placed on the web site in the near future.
The Repatriation Commissioner
Mark Kelly, the recently appointed Repatriation
Commissioner addressed the meeting on:
His command of Australian forces in the Middle East
which ended earlier this year, and
His early experience as the Repatriation
Commissioner. It was agreed that he will bring a
younger, fresher and more recent military
experience to the role.
Summary
The RARC is now a reality. It will gather pace in the
coming months and bring a distinctive focus to the issues
that are unique to the Regimental Family.
Take care,
Kel Ryan
President
RAR Association - QLD
A Nun who had recently died, arrived at the pearly gates when
she was stopped by St Peter. “There is a new policy now, I ask
you a question, if you don’t answer it correctly, you don’t get
in.”
“Okay, said she, “Fire away”
“What was the first thing Eve said to
Adam in the Garden of Eden?”
The Nun’s face fell. “That’s a hard
one!”
“Correct,” said St Peter.
5
INTRODUCING
THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT CORPORATION [RARC]
The newly formed RARC met formally for the first time
in Randwick Barracks Sydney on 18-19 November 2010
for its inaugural AGM.
The Corporation arose as a result of the decision
taken last year (2009) by the RAR State/Territory and
Battalion Associations/Corporation to incorporate the
then RARA National Association to be truly recognised
as the national advocacy body and representative of its
membership to the Parliament, Government and its administration and the defence community.
Its purpose is to co-ordinate its member’s activities when such coordination is agreed as being necessary.
That means that when issues arise that have or will have
an impact on the Regiment, the former members of the
Regiment and the extended membership of the Regimental family then the RARC will act to protect them. The
Fair Go campaign is a recent example.
The Corporation’s members are the RAR State/
Territory and Battalion Associations/Corporation organisations. It has no individual members. Each of the Corporation’s members has their own individual classes of
members, over which the Corporation is expressly excluded from involvement in their governance and management.
The elected Board of Directors of the RARC
comprises:
The Royal Australian Regiment Corporation Council 18-19 November
2010
..... Then there were four.....
Michael von Berg – Chairman. Michael is the
President of the SA Branch of the RAR Association. He served with 5 RAR in Vietnam and has
had vast experience in international and national
business activities. He lives in Adelaide.
The New Royal Australian Regiment Corporation Board of Directors
(L to R) Roger Wainwright, Michael von Berg, Ted Chitham and Hori
Howard.
DEDICATION OF KAPYONG, MARYANG SAN
BRIDGE
The dedication of the Kapyong-Maryang San Bridge took
place at Heidelberg Remembrance Garden, Heidelberg
Repatriation Hospital, on Friday 19th
November. Australian Council of Korea Veterans
Associations board member, Stan Connelly was the Guest
Speaker, and Dr Bo Hi Pak officiated. Dr Bo is the CoChairman and Executive Director of the Korean War 60th
Anniversary Memorial Committee.
Once again “The Little Angels” were on hand to
contribute to the occasion. They entertained a very
appreciative audience with choral numbers ranging from
"Ari Dong" to the Australian National Anthem.
Only one wreath was laid, by war widows, Norma
Cherry
and
T h e r e s e
Woodyard,
accompanied by
Dr Bo Hi Pak.
Ted Chitham – Secretary. Ted is the past President
of the RARA Queensland Branch and was the
General Manager of the RACQ for 21 years. He
is currently a Director of RSL Care. He lives in
Brisbane.
Hori Howard – Director. Hori is presently the Honorary Colonel Commandant of the RAR and after
many years in the Army was the Director of the
State Emergency Service in NSW. He maintains
an active involvement in ES. He lives in Austinmer NSW.
Roger Wainwright – Director. Roger is the current
National President of the 5 RAR Association and
maintains positive links to that battalion which is
currently in Afghanistan. He lives in Canberra.
The Corporation Secretary’s working office is co-located
with the RARA Qld at Gallipoli Barracks.
The Kapyong,
Maryang San
Brindge (Right)
6
17,000th Digger arrives in Afghanistan
war zone
DEDICATION KOREAN WAR MEMORIAL,
GOLD COAST
A large crowd gathered at Cascade Gardens on the Gold
Coast for the Dedication of the Korean War Memorial. There were many Korean nationals, and Australian
veterans of the Korean War were also present in good
numbers. At the Dedication, Sun Yang Wang, representing the Minister for Patriot
and Veterans Affairs, presented Ambassador for
Peace Medals to six veterans of the Korean War,
including Donald Gallop
seen here (right).
After the Dedication, special guests were
asked to “turn the sod” to
commemorate the commencement of the work.
Taking part in the ceremony are Lord Mayor of
the Gold Coast Ron
Clarke, Consul General Republic of Korea, Chae Hong
ho, Representing Ministry Veteran Affairs Seoul, Sun
Yang Wang, and Margaret Keech MP, representing Premier Anna Bligh. After this other groups were invited to
“turn the sod” also, and many took advantage of the invitation to do so (below).
Ready and able ... soldiers from the 2nd Mentoring Task Force
board a Chinook helicopter to fly out to their new patrol base
homes / Pic: Department of Defence Source: The Daily Telegraph
AUSTRALIA'S troop deployments to Afghanistan
have passed the 17,000 mark, with the arrival of 724
Australian soldiers in Uruzgan province for an eightmonth deployment training and mentoring Afghan
troops.
That means around 15,000 Australians have
served in the country, with about 2000 deploying more
than once since the first SAS soldiers arrived in October 2001 following the September 11 attacks in the
US.
About 1550 troops are now serving in Afghanistan, including 861 in Combined Team Uruzgan
and 318 in the Special Operations Task Group.
Others are working with reconstruction teams
and in support and headquarters roles throughout the
country.
The newly arrived Diggers from the Darwin-based 5th
(Mechanised) Battalion make up Mentoring Task
Force Two, replacing their comrades from the Brisbane-based 6th Battalion in MTF-1.
That force had soldiers killed in action during
a tough tour of duty.
RON SAYS
A complimentary lunch was provided and many
stayed on for the entertainment provided by the Korean
community. The highlight was a play put on by the ladies
of Gyungi-do, “O, Motherland”. This play memorialised
the story of the first Korean POW to escape from North
Korea, which he did in 1993, and finally made it to his
home in South Korea. Unfortunately, the rain set in while
this play was being performed, but, despite having to go
backwards and forwards in the rain, the actors continued
with the play, almost as if they did not notice it. Everyone
admired their determination and willingness to continue
with their task despite the difficulties. Joseph Ahn and
Maurie Pears are hopeful that the Memorial will be completed in mid-2011.
A Blonde goes to a Post
Office to buy Stamps for her
Christmas Cards. She says to
the Clerk:
“Can I have 50
Christmas Stamps please.”
The clerk says: “What denomination?”
The Blonde replies: “God help us, has it
come to this? Give me 22 Catholic, 12
Presbyterian, 10 Lutheran and 6 Baptists.”
7
SCHOOL VISIT TO NMW ON
REMEMBRANCE DAY
MEDIA RELEASE
Thursday 2 December 2010
The Alliance of Defence Service Organisations1 Calls
for Much Needed Measures in the Budget
as Defence Compensation Woes Continue
Year 7 of McDowall State School attended the National
Walk of Remembrance at Gallipoli Barracks on Thursday 11 November, 2010 from 9.30am to 11.10am. They
were hosted, guided and instructed by members of the
Royal Australian Regiment Association (Qld Branch).
This experience was initiated in 2010 to provide all our
students with a memorable, meaningful experience that
highlights the concept of ‘service’ while providing a
means for personal reflection and remembrance of those
who paid the ultimate sacrifice. It was indeed fitting that
this experience was able to be held on Remembrance
Day.
I would like to sincerely thank you for your ongoing support and assistance, to provide a quality educational programme for McDowall State School students,
both in support of both Anzac Day and Remembrance
Day observances held at the school; and in the planning
and implementation of this event.
Teachers, students and Deputy Principal, all returned to the McDowall State School expressing their
gratitude in being able to be involved in this opportunity.
Adults and students found this event educational, reflective, relevant and emotionally moving.
They have strongly requested, that if at all possible, they would like to see this event included annually
within the McDowall State School calendar. As you
know, this was indeed, my intention.
I wish to earnestly request that you pass on my
regards, thanks and appreciation to all volunteer members and all those who in anyway supported this experience for McDowall State School students. I passionately
believe that through educating our youth, we can all construct a better future for us all. Thank you for contributing toward this vision.
The Association today submitted budget proposals for
FY 2011/2012 on behalf of the Alliance of Defence
Service Organisations2. In it the Alliance calls for
Government action to:
1.
Provide fair indexation
Superannuation Payments;
of
all
Military
2.
Abolish Military Superannuation Benefit
Scheme Maximum Benefit Limits (MBL) as
recommended in the 2007 Review into Military
Superannuation;
3.
Adjust the Veterans Disability Pension Rates
in line with the adjustment of Age and Service
Pension single rate in the 2009/10 budget; and
4.
Remove the Unfair Balance of Legal
Resources against Veterans at the Administrative
Appeals Tribunal.
Along with the items in this submission we await the
outcome of the Review of Military Compensation
Arrangements .… examining the adequacy and
suitability of military rehabilitation and compensation
arrangements including perceived disparities and
inequities between legislative schemes.
It is eighteen months since the Government
announced that a steering committee was appointed and
had commenced its consideration of almost 50
submissions from the service and ex-service
communities on the matter of Defence Compensation.
In the meantime, serving members and veterans
continue to suffer. Recent media reports have
highlighted the fact that soldiers who suffer repeated
wounds or injury on frontline service are being denied
fair compensation under assessment arrangements used
by the Department of Veterans Affairs, because
compensation provided for a previous wound or injury
can cancel out entitlements for a later one.
This is a major anomaly and it needs to be
resolved. Wounded serving and ex-service members
need urgent and positive action from the Government to
remove this injustice.
May I request, with the endorsement of the Royal Australian Regiment Association (Qld Branch), that
McDowall State School Year 7 students annually attend
the National Walk of Remembrance on 11 November
between 9.30am and 11.10am. Should this be agreed, I
will again contact you in Sept/Oct to confirm arrangements for all our Year 7 students to attend in 2011. I propose that a similar programme be implemented as occurred in 2010, as a different draft of students will attend
each year.
Yours faithfully,
Bruce T. Fogarty, Principal.
Media Contacts
Executive Director:
Les Bienkiewicz 0411 444248
www.dfwa.org.au
National President:
David Jamison 0416 107557
8
A LETTER FROM AFGHANISTAN
interested in us. Tony’s visit followed on from Julia’s
visit which are both precursors to the debate in
Parliament about Australia’s involvement over here.
We have been asked not to make comment on this
subject, as well as the trial of those special forces
blokes, so I won’t.
I’ve got lots more photo’s to show you, but
need to keep these emails down to around 1MB as the
internet over here can’t handle much more. I’m
working on a Ration pack Master Chef edition where I
taste test the Dutch, US and Aussie Ration
packs....stay tuned people!
Well I’m totally hanging to get home now,
and can see a tiny light at the end of the tunnel (I hope
it’s not a train).
Until next time, look after yourself,
G’Day all,
Well since my last email, I spent most of this month
Outside the Wire visiting various Patrol Bases. It was
a nice change from being a Fobbit (one who lives in a
FOB -Forward Operating Base) as I got to see more of
the Afghan country side. Each of the Patrol Bases has
their own distinctive set-up, and with Australia having
taken over a few post Dutch withdrawal we inherited
some Netherlands flavour with them. All of the bases
are occupied by Aussies and/or US Forces, and the
Afghan National Army. While the conditions are
more primitive than living in a FOB, they weren’t too
bad all in all. Again maintaining hygiene and health
seems to be the biggest issue, with dysentery a
common complaint.
I arrived by road in a convoy. The convoy is
pretty heavily armed with bushmasters and ASLAVS.
The 40T Mack that I was a co-driver in on one of the
trips was up-armoured, but I was still nervous carrying
40T of diesel fuel. One of my mates said “don’t worry,
diesel is a slow burning fuel isn’t it?” as he had a
slight chuckle to himself...
The driver was a young 21 year old, and one
of the best drivers I have seen. He had been doing
these fuel runs his entire tour, and on top of the
complexities of getting a truck and trailer weighing
40T through a desert which included going up very
steep inclines, there was the operational hazards to
consider. These guys have my full respect. The
convoy was lead by an engineer search team. Again
more young sappers out in front putting themselves in
harm’s way as they search and clear the road of IED’s
(Improvised Explosive Devices).
I have included a few snaps taken from the
window of the Mack and/or Bushmaster I was in.
They give you a view of downtown Tarin Kot, and
some of the Afghan Country side.
You will see from some of the photo’s that the
country is quite spectacular in places. It changes from
desert to a lush green zone either side of the river. The
river is the absolute life source of this country. The
farmers dig canals from the river to irrigate their
crops. I came across a few grave yards along the way,
and what I found interesting was how the put flags
about the grave whereas we westerners put a
gravestone. They also seem to bury the body on top of
the surface rather than 6 ft under. Driving through the
cities, it reminded me of what it must of been like in
the time of Christ. People live in mud houses, get
around on donkeys and camels, wear similar clothing,
and survive by subsistence farming. The only
difference of course is the main religion being Islam
instead of Judaism.
Since my last email, we had a visit from Tony
Abbott, which was reasonably well received my those
here. He came across as a nice guy who was genuinely
Love to all,
Pat
A Panoramic Shot of the area around Mirwaiz. It gives you
an idea of how rugged this Afghanistan is.
Forward Base Locke 2
Downtown Mirwaiz—a scene very reminiscent of biblical
times (Except for the cars and the Armoured Vehicle)
9
RAR ASSOCIATION (QLD DIV) INC ACTIVITIES CALENDAR JANUARY – JULY 2011
DAY
DATE
EVENT
REMARKS
Monday
17 Jan 2011
Dads Army Commence Work RAR NMW
Enoggera
Monday
24 Jan 2010
Enoggera
Sunday
30 Jan 2011
1600
Tueday
1 Feb 2011
Sunday
6 Feb 2011
Visit / Meeting Mngr DCSO-BNE at RAR NMW
4RAR Commemorative Service & Birthday Celebration RAR
National Memorial Walk
Contact – Alan Price, (07) 32737973, apriced4@bigpond.net.au
4RAR Birthday (1964) (woodside, SA)
15 Aug 1973 Linked to 2 RAR as 2/4 RAR (Townsville, QLD)
1 Feb 1995 Re-Raised (Sydney, NSW)
1 Feb 1997 Re =-Titled 4 RAR (CDO) (Sydney, NSW)
1 RAR Ascn Meeting and Family BBQ
Monday
7 Feb 2011
Management Committee Meeting
Saturday
12 Feb 2011
RAR Ascn QLD Inc NORTH QLD Annual Dinner
Enoggera
Townsville RSL
Wednesday
16 Feb 2011
Thursday
17 Feb 2011
Monday
28 Feb 2011
Operation Bribie Meet & Greet 1730 Venue TBC
POC Spike Jones 07 41290540
Operation “Bribie” Remembrance Service
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Gardens Bribie Island RSL POC
Spike Jones 07 41290540
8RAR Long Hai Commemoration Service. Contact Secretary
wombat8rar@bigpond.com
Enoggera
RAR NMW
Bribie Island
Enoggera
RAR National Memorial Walk
Print The Spirit
Tuesday
1 Mar 2011
Tueday
1 Mar 2011
Tueday
1 Mar 2011
Sunday
6 Mar 2011
Monday
7 Mar 2011
Monday
7 Mar 2010
Orientation Day Visit 7 BDE Key Staff RAR NMW 1000
Enoggera
Sunday
20 Mar 2011
RAR NMW
Saturday
3 Apr 2011
Sunday
10 Apr 2011
Sunday
24 Apr 2011
Monday
25 Apr 2011
9 RAR Ascn Meeting & Family BBQ
1 RAR Association BBQ. Contact Secretary RAR National Memorial Walk
1 RAR Ascn Meeting and Family BBQ
3RAR Kapyong Day Commemoration Service. ContactAlexandeBates alexanderbates7@bigpond.com
ANZAC DAY ACTIVITIES
5.00am – 6.00am
Dawn Service RAR National Memorial Walk
Enoggera
6.30am – 9.30am
Breakfast
Brisbane City March
Shuttle Bus from Enoggera Station to Barracks TBC
11.00am – 1.00pm
The Australian Army Birthday (1901)
5RAR Birthday (1965 - Holsworthy, NSW)
3 Dec 1973 Linked to 7 RAR as 5/7 RAR (Holsworthy, NSW)
3 Dec 2006 Re-Raised (Darwin,– NT)
1 RAR Ascn Meeting and Family BBQ
RAR QLD Advisory Council Meeting 1030hr
RAR Office
RAR NMW
Enoggera
Enoggera
RAR NMW
NMW
Brisbane City
COMD Mess Conf
Centre
1 pm – late
Monday
2 May 2011
Sunday
8 May 2011
Management Committee Meeting 1030hr
RAR Office
1 RAR Ascn Meeting and Family BBQ
Monday
30 May 2011
RAR QLD Advisory Council Meeting
TBA
Sunday
5 Jun 2011
1 RAR Ascn Meeting and Family BBQ
RAR NMW
Monday
6 June 2011
6RAR Birthday (1965 - Enoggera Qld)
Friday
10 June 2011
5RAR Battle of Binh Ba Commemoration. Contact Secretary
Bruce Schmidtchen brucesc@bigpond.net.au
10
Enoggera
RAR NMW
NMW
THE MEMORIAL WALK
But –
“WHO IS THIS DAD’S ARMY?
THEY ARE MEN YOU MAY HAVE KNOWN.
THEY WERE CSM’S AND RSM’S
A MAJOR FOR GOOD MEASURE
THEY HAVE KNOWLEDGE THAT COULD
FILL A BOOK
THE ARMY’S LIVING TREASURE”.
2010 has been a busy year. There have been visits from a
number of groups –
RSL’S
PROBUS
WAR WIDOWS
Several re-unions
And the visit on Remembrance Day by grade
seven pupils from McDowall Primary School was very
special. On that day several hundred troops from several
units in the camp also attended a memorial service.
The Group of Dad’s Army has welcomed several
new members. Some of Dad’s Army boys have been
working ever since the Memorial began in 1996. So it is
good to have some new “Boys”.
(from “Remember the Green Parrot”)
Our thanks to all those who have helped during
the year – with interest and enthusiasm, donations and
advice.
Kiwi and Dad’s Army.
... But no matter
what has to be
done or where,
or by whom....
It’s all greatly
appreciated!
THERE’S GOLFERS...THEN THERE’S
GOLFERS!!!
There’s always work to do—some of it quite
tiring...
We have all heard the stories of how stoically the population of
Great Britain stood up under the constant barrage of the blitz
during the early years of World War 2, but nowhere is this
more demonstrated than by this calm notice erected outside
Richmond Golf Course (near London) in 1940.
There is always work to do. One group have been busy re
-furbishing the plaques. Blue Parnell makes the columns,
Kiwi replaces the plaque and a few of the boys put them
back in place – all time consuming.
Some people like gardening so several new areas
have been planted, and a garden with a sign for “Long
Tan” has been put in place, as well as one for “Coral/
Balmoral”.
Morning tea time has become the place to be on
Monday Morning. Visitors arrive and discussions are
held, books exchanged, tales are told, and out of the work
party’s something has developed which is quite unique.
RICHMOND GOLF CLUB
TEMPORARY RULES 1940
1
Players are asked to collect Bomb and Shrapnel
splinters to save these causing damage to the Mowing
Machines.
2
In Competitions during gunfire or while bombs are
falling, players may take cover without penalty for ceasing
play.
3
The positions of known delayed action bombs are
marked by red flags at a reasonably, but not guaranteed safe
distance there from.
4
Shrapnel and/or bomb splinters on the Fairways, or in
Bunkers within a club’s length of a ball, may be moved without
penalty, and no penalty shall be incurred if a ball is thereby
caused to move accidently.
5
A ball moved by enemy action may be replaced, or if
lost or destroyed, a ball bay be dropped not nearer the hole
without penalty.
6
A ball lying in a crater may be lifted and dropped not
nearer the hole, preserving the line to the hole, without penalty.
7
A player whose stroke is affected by the simultaneous
explosion of a bomb may play another ball from the same
place. Penalty one stroke.
...and sometimes the work can be a little
tricky....
Talk about keeping a stiff upper lip.
11
NEVER FORGOTTEN
RAR MEMORIAL PLAQUE UNVEILED AT
TWEED HEADS
In August 2010, Kiwi and I visited Bunbury in
Western Australia to attend a reunion of “B” Coy 2
RAR 1967-68. While there we met with the family of
Richard Aldersea. Richard served in 6 RAR and was
killed at Long Tan. We told the family about the
Memorial Walk and sent some photos – these are the
concluding words from a letter from the family.
“It looks a very peaceful place. Your workers
should be proud of what you have achieved. Many
thanks for looking after Dick’s tree. I will show the
photos to my sisters, who along with me, are still
devastated that our young wild brother is no longer
with us, after 44 long years.”
Jim and Joan Aldersea.
Monsignor Eugene Harley blesses the RAR Plaque at the
Memorial Gardens, Tweed Heads,30th October 2010, whilst
RARAQ President Kel Ryan looks on.
Margaret Gibbons
.... And the plaque
The War Memorial in Bunbury which includes the name of
Richard Aldersea 6RAR
WE NEED YOU
THESE BOYS HAVEN’T GOT TICKETS
ON THEMSELVES
Tom Gibbons and
his friend Ryan
Warchol (pictured)
both attended the
RAR
Annual
Dinner on the 12th
of November where
they sold raffle
tickets to raise
money for the RAR
Association. They
sold over $1000.00
in tickets on the
n i g h t .
Congratulations go
out to the winners.
And to everyone
else, as the saying
Under the guise of keeping the mind active what
don't you consider becoming a Dad's Army Guide
(DAG) for The Royal Australian Regiment National
Memorial Walk Lavarack Parade Enoggera.
The duties conducted by are DAG are
easy, Meet & Greet various groups that visit the
RAR NMW and give them a brief outline on the
history of the NMW and the RAR, show them
around take a few happy snaps for them, put the
nose bag one and join them in a yarn or two if you
wish.
You don't have to be super fit and if you
do have a disability no problems.
If you would like to come along as a "L"
with one of the others to see what is done before
you commit yourself, please let me know so I can
let you know a date or too. Thanks
If you require further information please
contact me and or Kiwi Gibbons the Caretaker or
Kel Ryan the President
goes, there’s always next year.
12
CHRISTMAS FOR THE TROOPS
AFPO 60
Australian Defence Force
SYDNEY NSW 2890
Christmas allows most of us to spend valuable time with
family and friends. It is important to spare a thought for
those who will not be with their families this
Christmas. This year thousands of Australian troops will
be serving away from home during the holiday season.
To show your support of the troops this
Christmas you can send them a Care package free through
Australia Post. Australia Post allows free delivery for
packages under 2kg to our soldiers on the front line.
Be creative with donations while being mindful
of Australia Post's guidelines for the free delivery of care
packages. Some suggestions are listed below, as are the
general restrictions. Any donated goods that are unable to
be sent due to size or weight will be donated to local
charities.
To send a care package to an Australian soldier in
Afghanistan, address the package to the following. If you
wish to send a specific package to a female, change the
first line to 'An Australian Soldier - Female'
An Australian Soldier
Op Slipper
AFPO 60
Australian Defence Force
SYDNEY NSW 2890
To send a care package to an Australian Explosive
Detection Dog in Afghanistan, address the package to:
TOILETRIES
Deodorant (non aerosol) - Shaving cream (non aerosol
Small bottle of talcum powder - Disposable razors Shower Gel - Lip Balm - Perfume samples (non glass)
An Australian EDD Handler
Op Slipper
AFPO 60
Australian Defence Force
SYDNEY NSW 2890
OTHER IDEAS
Magazines – from Vogue to Men’s Health - Puzzle books
- DVD’s - Socks - Letters of support - Stamped, self
addressed envelopes (this way soldiers can thank you for
the donation)
To send a care package to an Australian soldier in East
Timor, address the package to the following. If you wish
to send a specific package to a female, change the first line
to 'An Australian Soldier - Female'
An Australian Soldier
East Timor Operations
AFPO 61
Australian Defence Force
SYDNEY NSW 2890
FOR THE EXPLOSIVE DETECTION DOGS
Box of dog biscuits - Dried beef bones - Greenies -Toys Tennis balls - Treats for the handlers
FOOD
Instant Noodles - Biscuits - Lollies - Small tinned
consumables - Non perishable foods
To send a care package to an Australian soldier in The
Solomons, address the package to the following. If you
wish to send a specific package to a female, change the
first line to 'An Australian Soldier - Female'
WHAT NOT TO INCLUDE
Pornographic material - Alcoholic beverages - Clothing
(except socks) - Pork products - Cigarettes - Chocolate
(due to heat)
An Australian Soldier
Solomon Island Operations
AFPO 62
Australian Defence Force
SYDNEY NSW 2890
When sending your parcel don't forget to include a letter
to the troops and by including a stamped self addressed
envelope they can send a letter back to you. Parcels can
be sent to "An Australian Soldier" or "An Australian
Soldier - Female". For something different you can send
a Care package to one of the explosive detection dogs at
"An Australian EDD Handler" but don't forget to include
a treat for the handler.
To send a care package to an Australian soldier in
the Middle East, address the package to the following. If
you wish to send a specific package to a female, change
the first line to 'An Australian Soldier - Female'
An Australian Soldier
Middle East Operations
13
•
SUPPORTING YOUNGER VETERANS AFTER
SEPARATION FROM THE ADF
Finding it hard to accept the difference between
civilian life and experiences in military service.
• Feeling ashamed, angry or disappointed if they left the
military involuntarily.
• Experiencing a loss of role, identity or purpose.
• Finding it difficult getting a new job or challenging to
adapt to a civilian job.
• Having concerns about supporting the family, possibly
on a lower wage.
• Having financial problems.
• Feeling less valued or appreciated with a sense of
diminished status in life.
• Finding it challenging making new friends, and coping
without old friends.
• Finding civilian life chaotic due to perceived lack of
structure, order, and direction. Not knowing what to do
with free time.
Many of our MHPE volunteers are coming into contact
with veterans from recent military deployments. The
following article was requested from the VVCS - Veterans
and Veterans Families Counselling Service to provide an
understanding of the emerging issues which ADF members
face and the assistance available.
Given the recent commitments of the ADF to
locations such as East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan there
are ever-increasing numbers of veterans who are aged in
their 20s and 30s, both male and female.
The nature of current ADF operations leads to a
veteran population quite different from previous
generations. For example, the length and number of
deployments is quite different from that typically
experienced previously. It is not uncommon
for young veterans in their mid-20s to have had multiple
deployments to a number of operational areas.
While it is a mixed, diverse group there are a
number of common psychological, personal and social
difficulties that many younger veterans may experience
following a deployment. These include stress, anger,
relationship problems, sleep difficulties, and substance
abuse, in addition to service-related trauma.
Additionally, whilst personnel leaving the military
may initially experience some uncertainty and a loss of
confidence, most make the adjustment successfully. At
other times, the problems may not go away – and for some,
become worse.
Some of the reasons why making the transition can
be challenging include:
The military has a unique culture, one that is very
different to civilian culture. Some separating members may
experience ‘culture shock’ as they try to readjust to civilian
life and a civilian workplace and their community.
Some ex-military personnel report feeling isolated
or ‘different’ to civilians and some find it hard to develop
new friendships once they leave the military.
To many the military is more than a job, it is a
‘way of life’ involving values, priorities and beliefs about
the world that often affect all aspects of a person’s life and
identity.
Those leaving the military with service related
problems such as chronic ill health, injury, posttraumatic
stress disorder (related to operational or other trauma),
anxiety disorders, chronic pain or depression may
experience additional adjustment difficulties.
Who can help?
VVCS provides counselling, group programs and case
management to support the mental and emotional well
being of veterans and their families by equipping them
with the knowledge and skills to manage a range of issues
arising from military service and deployment. These
include stress, anger, sleep, lifestyle and family matters,
substance abuse and service-related trauma. To assist with
personal and social issues related to transition from the
ADF, VVCS provides the 2-day Stepping Out Program.
The Department of Veterans' Affairs for assistance
with rehabilitation, retraining, compensation and other
matters.
Other health professionals such as General
Practitioners, psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists,
private hospitals and community health centres.
Ex-service Organisations, the Australian
Peacekeeper & Peacemaker Veterans’ Association
(APPVA) and the Partners of Veterans Association (PVA)
can provide informal support and advice.
Other government and community agencies can
help with parenting, financial problems, family dispute,
child support, drugs and alcohol and legal issues.
To find out more about eligibility for VVCS
services, where and when they are available, please contact
the nearest VVCS centre on 1800 011 046. Free local call.
Calls from mobile phones and pay phones may incur
charges.
www.dva.gov.au/health/vvcs
Burn out describes a condition commonly
experienced by people working or volunteering for the
welfare of others. It can involve both physical and
emotional exhaustion. Burn out commonly occurs when
Some of the social issues for military personnel
making the transition to civilian life include:
•
Experiencing trouble readjusting to family, from whom
they have spent considerable periods of time away from.
This can include parenting responsibilities.
• Feeling cut off from people or feel unable to connect
with anyone.
someone is caring for another person.
Welfare Officer
RAR Association QLD
http://www.rar.org.au/
14
TELSTRA WARNS OF EMAIL SCAM
TARGETING BIGPOND CUSTOMERS
WEBSITE REPORT
Judging by visitor numbers over the past 12 months,
the RARA website continues to serve its purpose. The
website is updated several times each day, particularly
Noticeboard and Defence News. Software purchased
and employed by the webmaster includes Adobe
Dreamweaver, Adobe Acrobat, and Microsoft Office.
When on the road the webmaster uses the RARA
(Qld) laptop. Until recently connection to the Internet
on the road was achieved by whatever was available
and cost; connection is now achieved with a Telstra
Turbo pre-paid mobile broadband and works well.
Regular visitor peaks occur prior to Anzac
Day, and notably on the uploading of the latest edition
of the newsletter ‘The Spirit’. The Noticeboard is a
constant, although this year from May onwards the
webpage attracted above average visitations; one
reason may be to do with content from the main
providers: the Executive, recently ‘Fair Go’, others,
and the webmaster (such as online version of Army –
The Soldiers’ Newspaper and other regular items).
There are regular visits of about 1000 per
month in History with peaks in April and September.
The software (or the webmaster) which provides the
basis for monthly website reports to the Executive is
not advanced enough to provide more detailed
information about who visits us (this is to do with
Hosting package) – so that when we receive
exceptional hits on our webpages it is not usually
possible to identify who they are and where they
originate from. A good example is the 26,000 page
views we received on one day in September.
Another example is the increase in individual
visits to Defence News from 2200 (Aug) to 3500 (Sep)
to 4200 (Oct) a monthly increase of 2000. We do
know that about three times more Americans than
Australians visit the site. The ADF visit us. I receive
regular feedback in regards to the website, most of
which is positive. However, it is most evident that the
framework of the website has past its use-by-date.
Examples include the absence of desired features such
as ‘Help Find A Mate!’ webpage, social
networking, and its general archaic appearance and
features.
With the advent of RARA Corporation we can
hope for a new national website professionally
designed and constructed for us, and software
(expensive) provided to the Committee to enable the
webmaster to manage the site which in the final
instance allows the site to achieve its objectives.
Don't let scam emails fool you into providing
your personal details.
Telstra has issued a warning following reports
of an email scam claiming to be from BigPond.
SCAMwatch has received many reports about
scam emails claiming to be from well-known and
respected organisations that are actually scams, and
advises that you should be wary of all emails sent out
of the blue—supposedly from companies you know
and trust.
Telstra advises that they will never email you
asking for personal details to be supplied by following
a link, and that you should only ever provide this
information in response to an expected request or one
you have initiated.
SCAMwatch urges you to watch out for
emails requesting passwords, account verification,
credit card numbers or other personal details by asking
you to 'click on a link'. Whilst some emails will have
tell-tale scamming signs such as misspelt words or
poor grammar, others can look like the real thing,
using corporate logos and links to genuine looking
webpages.
•
•
•
•
PROTECT YOURSELF
Never respond to requests for personal
information in an unexpected email, even if it
is supposedly from an organisation you know
or trust. If in doubt, contact the organisation
using independently verified contact details.
Do not open suspicious or unsolicited emails
(spam)—delete them.
If you want to access an online account, use a
bookmarked link or type the address in
yourself—NEVER follow links or open
attachments in unsolicited emails as they may
contain viruses or other malware.
NEVER give personal or financial details to
anyone you do not know and trust, or enter
them into a website unless you are certain it is
genuine. Check the website address carefully
as scammers often set up fake websites with
very similar addresses.
If you think you have provided your account
details to a scammer, contact your bank or
financial institution immediately.
REPORT
You can report a scam to the ACCC via the
report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300
795 995. You can also report any hoax emails that
appear to be from Telstra or BigPond on the BigPond
website. To report spam, visit the Australian
Communications and Media Authority website.
Rick Hollingdrake
Webmaster
15
E-MAIL TRACKER PROGRAMS
and very possibly a virus attached! Plus, we are helping
the spammers get rich! Let's not make it easy for them!
ALSO: Email petitions are NOT acceptable to
Congress* of any other organization - i.e. social security,
etc. To be acceptable, petitions must have a "signed
signature" and full address of the person signing the
petition, so this is a waste of time and you are just helping
the email trackers.
The man that sent this
information is a computer
tech. He spends a lot of
time clearing the junk off
computers for people and
listens to complaints about
speed. All forwards are
not bad, just some. Be sure
you read the very last
paragraph.
* Not sure what is the official policy is on email petitions to Federal or
State Parliaments in Australia (This came from an American website) Ed
He wrote:
“By now, I suspect everyone is familiar with
snopes.com and/or truthorfiction.com for determining
whether information received via email is just that: true/
false or fact/fiction. Both are excellent sites. Advice from
snopes.com VERY IMPORTANT!!
TIPS FOR HANDLING TELEMARKETERS THREE LITTLE WORDS THAT WORK!
The three little words are: 'Hold On,
Please...'Saying this, while putting
down your phone and walking off
(instead of hanging-up
immediately) would make each
telemarketing call so much more
time-consuming that boiler room
sales would grind to a halt.
Then when you eventually
hear the phone company's 'beepbeep-beep' tone, you know it's time
to go back and hang up your handset, which has efficiently
completed its task.
These three little words will help eliminate
telephone soliciting..
Do you ever get those annoying phone calls with no one on
the other end?
This is a telemarketing technique where a machine
makes phone calls and records the time of day when a
person answers the phone.
This technique is used to determine the best time
of day for a 'real' sales person to call back and get someone
at home.
What you can do after answering, if you notice
there is no one there, is to immediately start hitting your #
button on the phone, 6 or 7 times as quickly as possible.
This confuses the machine that dialed the call, and it kicks
your number out of their system. Gosh, what a shame not
to have your name in their system any longer!
1)
Any time you see an email that says "forward this on
to '10' (or however many) of your friends", "sign this
petition", or "you'll get bad luck" or "you'll get good luck"
or "you'll see something funny on your screen after you
send it" or whatever --- it almost always has an email
tracker program attached that tracks the cookies and emails
of those folks you forward to.
The host sender is getting a copy each time it gets
forwarded and then is able to get lists of 'active' email
addresses to use in SPAM emails or sell to other
spammers.. Even when you get emails that demand you
send the email on if you're not ashamed of God/Jesus --that is email tracking, and they are playing on our
conscience.
These people don't care how they get your email
addresses - just as long as they get them. Also, emails that
talk about a missing child or a child with an incurable
disease "how would you feel if that was your child" --email tracking. Ignore them and don't participate!
2)
Almost all emails that ask you to add your name and
forward on to others are similar to that mass letter years
ago that asked people to send business cards to the little
kid in Florida who wanted to break the Guinness Book of
Records for the most cards. All it was, and all any of this
type of email is, is a way to get names and 'cookie' tracking
information for telemarketers and spammers -- to validate
active email accounts for their own profitable purposes.
You can do your Friends and Family members a
GREAT favour by sending this information to them. You
will be providing a service to your friends. And you will
be rewarded by not getting thousands of spam emails in the
future!
Do yourself a favour and STOP adding your name
(s) to those types of listing regardless how inviting they
might sound! Or make you feel guilty if you don't! It's all
about getting email addresses and nothing more.
You may think you are supporting a GREAT
cause, but you are NOT!
Instead, you will be getting tons of junk mail later
Junk Mail Help:
When you get 'ads' enclosed with your phone or utility bill,
return these 'ads' with your payment. Let the sending
companies throw their own junk mail away.
When you get those 'pre-approved' letters in the
mail for everything from credit cards to 2nd mortgages and
similar type junk, do not throw away the return envelope.
Most of these come with postage-paid return
envelopes, right? It costs them more than the regular 60
cents postage, 'IF' and when they receive them back.
It costs them nothing if you throw them away! The
16
A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE
FROM THE CHAPLAIN
postage was around 50 cents before the last increase and
it is according to the weight. In that case, why not get rid
of some of your other junk mail and put it in these cool
little, postage-paid return envelopes.
Andy Rooney of 60 Minutes (US Edition) has
this idea for what to do with junk mail.
“Send an ad for your local chimney cleaner to
American Express.” He says. “Send a pizza coupon to
Citibank. If you didn't get anything else that day, then just
send them their blank application back!”
I write these Christmas greetings on Remembrance day in
a memorable year . It has been a year of positive growth
where we as an association have been very active in in
fulfilling our mission. How great was it to see almost
1000 people at our Remembrance service today!
We have energised in support of superannuation
equity , which I feel we we will achieve in due course.
We have cared for and farewelled some faithful warriors ,
their duty done . And we have made great connections
and supported another generation of veterans from the
battlefields of today. We have welcomed a new RAR Qld
leadership team under Kel Ryan, and seen the spawning
of an RAR National Executive through the limitless
energies of Ted Chitham.
I feel we are seen and felt as the premier veterans
association that is vitally connected with both serving and
former members of the ADF . Of course the most visible
testament to our vitality is the faithful witness of "Dad's
Army" at work every Monday and the truly national icon
of our National Memorial Walk . Well done Kiwi
Gibbons and team.
As your Chaplain writing in this Christmas
edition of "The Spirit" , I obviously would want all
members to be blessed with a Happy Christmas period.
We have great spirit among us already , and I hope that
spirit can be further nourished by the Holy Spirit of God
that has always been hovering over us , whether we have
recognised it or not . It is simply a spirit of energised
love. We can take comfort that we are loved by God and
he invites us to share that love with others . That’s what
our mateship is really .
Thank you for your friendship , and never forget
that God loves you and so do I !!!
He goes on, “If you want to remain
anonymous, just make sure your name isn't on
anything you send them.
You can even send the envelope back empty
if you want to just to keep them guessing! It still
costs them 44 cents.
The banks and credit card companies are
currently getting a lot of their own junk back in the
mail, but folks, we need to OVERWHELM them.
Let's let them know what it's like to get lots of junk
mail, and best of all they're paying for it...Twice!
Let's help keep our postal service busy since
they are saying that e-mail is cutting into their
business profits, and that's why they need to increase
postage costs again. You get the idea!”
ARMY LAUNCHES EXERCISE HAMEL
More than 6,000 members of the Army, supported by
Navy and Air Force, are taking part in Exercise HAMEL
– the most complex training activity ever undertaken by
the Australian Army. This is an important training
exercise for our armed forces – putting our troops and the
equipment they use through battle conditions.
Exercise HAMEL has also included the testing
and developing of capabilities in the field such as target
acquisition using Army’s ARH Tiger Helicopters,
electronic warfare and combat health support.
Army’s 3rd Brigade is supported by elements
from Army’s 1st Brigade, 7th Brigade and 16th Aviation
Brigade as well as US Marine Corps and the New
Zealand Defence Force in the realistic force on force
exercise.
The exercise involves the use of Army’s:
•
•
•
•
•
Gary Stone
RAR Assn Qld Chaplain
A PLEA FOR HELP
Bob Meehan OAM, volunteer curator at the Gold Coast War
Museum, has a large diorama of NUI DAT, now he needs help
by way of maps of Nui Dat showing unit placements. He is
aware that over the whole period units situated in different
locations, so now he wants to add lights so that the units
locations can be pinpointed.
If you can assist Bob please email him at
rneehan@bigpond.com
Bob and his few volunteer helpers are doing a
fabulous job at the museum, he has completed a tunnel system
that people can how light up and see what they were like.If
you’re on the Gold Coast call in and have a look ... it’s well
worth it.
Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles;
Howitzers;
Abrams tanks;
Air-support including Chinooks, ARH Tiger,
Black Hawk and Kiowa Helicopters;
Australian Light Armoured Vehicles (ASLAVs);
and M113 Personnel Carriers.
17
HO CHI MINH JOHNSY AND I
BY TONY (SHORTY) LOURENSEN
BOOK REVIEW
BENEATH THE PALE BLUE BURQA
BY KAY DANES
My name is Allan Garner, I am
promoting a great book Titled Ho
Chi Minh Johnsy and I. Written by
Tony (shorty) Lourensen a
Vietnam Veteran This book is a
great read and contains the true
story of he and his best mate
Johnsy and their exploits during
Vietnam.
Tony throughout his army
service served with 2 RAR 3RAR
160 Recce Sqd and 6RAR. The
book is available for sale at the cost
of $20.00 plus Postage and handling. You may purchase
the book through Me or contact Tony Via email at
shortys.book@optusnet.com.au if you wish to read a
little about the Author you can do so by going to his web
site www.tonylourensen.com
The last sentence of this book says
it all. “With the dust of Afghanistan
in my veins I say goodbye to this
tragic but glorious country but not
forever I hope. I will return.”
Kay Dane in this her third
book further develops her
broadening interest in international
social issues well beyond what she
would have expected even 10 years
ago. It will be remembered that in
late December 2000 Kay and
husband Kerry became ‘guest’ of
the Laotian secret police for nearly twelve months in
conditions that were not good for ones physical or mental
health. The experience though life changing has opened
the door for Kay Dane to become an author, international
speaker and social activist.
This latest book results from a journey she made
to Afghanistan after an invitation from America to be part
of a small group to undertake visits, bring needed supplies
to women and to speak at the conference addressing
violence against women. The trip was obviously an eye
opener, a further expansion of her international network
and a heartfelt view of the place of women in this tragic
country.
The party of seven did not sit in Kabul and seek
to understand the country from there. Rather they, along
with Afghan interpreters and security, ventured out along
road travelled by the Taliban and bandits; they visited the
Nangarhar Women’s prison which is the only place of
safety and refuge many of the women have ever had.
Beneath the Pale Blue Burqa is a diary of an experience
of a life time for Kay Dane. It is well worth the read as it
gives a different view, a strangely optimistic view, of a
country we should know more about.
THE BROTHERHOOD
By George Mansford
No matter what war, soldiering can be Spartan and grim
Enduring hardships with him, him and him
Him being Blue, Jed, Snow, Gazza, Moff and Bill
And other wonderful bastards who trudged from hill to hill
Didn’t matter the genes, black, white or in between
Micks, Proddys, Atheists; even those who voted green
What ever your origins; the old world, bush or big smoke
If you wore the proud cloth, you were one of the blokes
You huddled together shivering in icy rain
Even shared spare socks, again and again
The last of water or a rusty tin of meat for a stew
Not forgetting risks and dangers more than a few
How often did you swap letters as well as dreams too?
Caring and protecting each other and showing new blokes how
Holding a dying mates hand or cooling a fevered brow
It wasn’t the Queen or Canberra suits that made you fight
The reasons were the mates beside you, by day and by night
Reviewed by Kel Ryan
P.S. Kay Dane has arranged that $10 from every book
purchased through the publisher will be donated back to
the RAR Association. Go to the website
www.bigskypublishing.com.au and use the ‘RAR’
promotion code. This is now set up and can be used
immediately. The publisher will be able to track who has
purchased a book when they use one of these codes then
at the end of each quarter the publisher will provide the
association with a report and advise of the funds raised
for the Association and cut a cheque for that amount.
What ever the odds, more often than not, you stood fast
And when it seemed a few of your mob couldn’t last
There were some who thought God had forgotten for others
Yet his greatest gift was that he had made all of you brothers
That helping hand or comforting word, a shared smoke and tea
A wag who cracked a joke and tension gone while mirth ran
free
And so the question often asked is why such mate ship never
dies?
Well, I guess you have to be one of the mob to understand why.
“Remember if at first you don’t succeed—do it the way
mum told you!”
A husband’s famous last words
18
THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT ASSOCIATION
QUEENSLAND DIVISION INC
MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM
Keeping the Spirit Alive
Duty First
Office/Shop open Mondays 8 to 11 am (except Public Holidays)
Name:
Address for Postage:
ITEM
2. RAR Sports Shirt (S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL) w/pocket
PRICE
$45.00
$40. 00
3. RAR Hat Band
$7.00
4. RAR Cap (One size fits all)
$14.50
$20
$12.50
$5.50
$40.00
$45.00
$7.00
$5.00
$12.00
$3.00
$2.50
$6.00
$100.00
1. RAR Rain Jacket (S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL)
5. New Regimental Tie
6. Personal Name Badge
7. Infantry Combat Badge – Miniature
8. RAR Association NMW Plaque
9. RAR Association Plaque
10. RAR Stubby Holder
11. Infantry Combat Badge Transfers
12. Regimental Bow Tie
13. RAR Window Sticker #
14. RAR QLD Car Bumper Sticker
15. RAR Lapel Badge
16. Dress Belt, with Knife Pouch & Quality Pocket Knife
SIZE / S
NUMBER
TOTAL COST
PLUS: P&H for items 1 to 16 is $10.00
Nil P&H if collected from NMW
P & H $10.00 (if posted)
$
Total Value of Order
$
PLEASE POST WITH YOUR PAYMENT, TO
RAR ASSN QLD DIV, Bldg E71, EMC Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, 4051
My preferred name for the name badge, is
(Please PRINT):
________________________________
6
1
2
3
8
10
15
11
7
4
5
Hat Band only
12
16
14
If undelivered, please return to:
The Royal Australian Regiment Association Queensland Division, INC
Building E71, Enoggera Mail Centre
Gallipoli Barracks, ENOGGERA QLD 4051
THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT
ASSOCIATION (QUEENSLAND DIVISION) INC
Registered by Australia Post
Print Approved Post Number: 433295/00013
SURFACE
POSTAGE PAID
MAIL
BRISBANE 4053
Publication No. QBH 4484
RAR ASSOCIATION (Q)
MAJOR COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
CONTACT LIST
President
Kel Ryan
(07) 3818 4042 / 0418 759 120 keljan@optusnet.com.au
Immediate Past Pres.
E.A. ‘Ted’ Chitham, MC,OAM
(07) 33532415 tchitham@bigpond.com
Vice President
Vice President (NQ)
Secretary
Treasurer
Caretaker (NMW)
Welfare Officer
Webmaster
Iain Cruickshank
Ewan Cameron
Greg Decker
Ron Goodall
M.R. ‘Kiwi’ Gibbons
Ross Langford
Rick Hollingdrake, OAM
W (07) 33322792 iain.cruickshank@defence.gov.au
0417719043.lingalonganursery@bigpond.com
O417464251 secretary.rarassociationqld@gmail.com
(07) 38813580 / rjgoodall@bigpond.com
(07) 33004885 kiwigibbonS@iprimus.com.au
(07) 32617830 rosslangford@optusnet.com.au
(07) 32854197 / 0422481392
rarmail@mailscan.acenet.net.au