NASHO NEWS NATIONAL SERVICEMEN'S ASSOCIATION OF AUST (QLD) INC.
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NASHO
SERVICEMEN'S
ASSOCIATION
NATIONAL
51
NAVY • ARMY • AIRFORCE
72
NEWS
NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATION OF AUST (QLD) INC.
Issue No 134 November 2018
Feature Stories:
President and Treasurer Reports Page 1
Naming of the SGT. Frank Wust Bridge Page 3
Strategic Plan 2018 Page 5
Directory Front Cover
State Management This impressive art installation stood
Committee over 3m high and 16m long. The project
Patron: collected at least 57,705 poppies,
Councillor Angela Owen reflecting the same number of
President: Queenslanders who enlisted in the First
Alex Garlin 07 3847 9690
0417 621 411 World War. The poppies have been
Vice-President: created by thousands of Queenslanders
Warren Cockburn OAM 07 4162 17 93
0418 192 821 from across the state between June and
Secretary: September. The finished artwork toured
Len Matthews 07 3205 8674
to Townsville, Mackay, Longreach,
Asst Secretary: Bundaberg and Brisbane between 6
Ingrid Lundgren 07 3324 1277
October and 11 November.
Treasurer:
Neal Freier 07 3348 2080
0427 000 408
Apology: In the Last Post in the August
Wacol Manager:
Colin Waite 07 3208 9256
Edition the post nominal of BEM was
omitted from Neville Lawrence KRAUSE
Wacol Advisor:
Barry Loose 07 3408 6103
Administration Manager:
Tony Stevenson 07 3397 7512
Official NSAA
Welfare Officer:
Merchandise
Vacant OFFICIAL NSAA MERCHANDISE
Beret $32
Chaplain: Beret Badge – Pewter $5.50
Thomas (Tom) Andrews OAM 07 3396 8033 Beret Badge – Silver Six Sided Logo $20
04 0845 7931 Book – 20 Year History of the NSAA 1987 to 2007 $25
Caps Embroidered with Nasho Logo $17.50
Minute Secretary: Coffee Cup with Nasho Logo $ 9.00
Flag – Association Logo White Full Size (6'x3') $220
Gordon Tunstall 0412 886 042
Flag – Association Logo White small size (hand waver) $12.50
Lapel Badge – Association Blue $5.50
Editor Nasho News: Lapel Badge – Navy, Army or Air Force $6.50
Lapel Badge – Tri-service $6.50
Vince Crowley 07 4779 9460 Medals Full Size Unmounted Swing Court
0428 193 076 ADM $18 $22.50 $27.50
ANSM $18 $22.50 $27.50
Editor Branch News Duo ADM+ANSM $36 $45 $55
John Hardy OAM 07 4095 4154 Miniatures Unmounted Swing Court
0408 939 910 ADM $12 $16.50 $21
ANSM $12 $16.50 $21
Membership Officer: Duo $24 $40 $45
Stephen Sheridan 07 3324 1277 Medal Ribbon Bar with ADM+ANSM medal ribbons $15
Miniature Metal Ribbon Bar ADM+ANSM $10
State Office Necktie with Nasho Logo $33.50
Eric Sivell Park, 171 Boundary Road, Camp Hill, Nasho Pocket Patch – Bullion Thread – Red $36
Brisbane 4152 Nasho Pocket Patch – Queensland Red Logo $10
Nasho Port $13.50
Office Hours: 9.00am to 1.00pm Nasho Key Rings Acrylic $4.50
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Nasho Wattle Key Rings $10
Number plate covers ‘I Am a Nasho’ $22
Phone (07) 3324 1277 Shirts – Chambray short or long sleeves S M L XL XXL
Email: officeadmin@nashoqld.org.au (add $3 for XXXL size) $36
Mail to: National Servicemen's Association Shirts – Polo White or Maroon S M L XL XXL
(add $3 for XXXL size) $31
P.O. Box 7014 Holland Park East Qld 4121 Stubby Holder with Nasho Logo $5.50
Web: www.nashoqld.org.au Video – 50 year anniversary celebrations $5
Nominal Roll/Webmaster Video – Last March Out at Wacol $5
Wall Plaque – 6 sided Nasho Logo on Timber $42.50
Alex Garlin 07 3847 9690 president@nashoqld.org.au Pay by Credit Card – add $1.00
National Website: www.nashoaustralia.org.au Postage not included
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
The material contained in this publication is in the nature of general comment only, and neither purports, nor is intended, to be advice on any
particular matter. Readers should not act or rely upon any matter or information contained or implied by this publication, without taking
appropriate professional advice which relates specifically to their particular circumstances. The publishers and authors expressly disclaim all
and any liability to any person whether an Association member or not, who acts or fails to act as a consequence of reliance upon the whole
or part of the publication. Views expressed in any Editorial may not necessarily be those views held by the Management Committee.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT (Alex Garlin)
I would like to remind my brothers that we are without a Welfare Officer and if you are
in Hospital or sent to a Brisbane Hospital for treatment from the country my friend Tony
Stevenson and I will make every effort to visit and see you and try to cheer you up, as
this is what we can do.
1 day in the Queens Uniform means you are classified as a veteran, not a Returned
Veteran, and you can make a claim to DVA if your hearing is impaired or maybe you
have a hearing problem or skin cancer. This can be claimed and you will have to see an
advocate and fill out a lot of forms and he will submit these to DVA and, if they go
through successfully, you could receive a white card for that complaint. If you have
problems with RSL Advocate report the matter immediately to me.
The SMC are working tirelessly to bring Wacol back to its former self, with Col Waite
and his staff working tirelessly to achieve this. Come 14 February 2019 you will not know the place as it will be
the biggest day that that our Association has attempted. We are about to honour 22 of our Brothers who died
whilst training for National Service, or in their followup training in different Battalions or Squadrons.
We have organized a sand-stone monument complete with a plaque containing the names of all of our Brothers
to be delivered to our site for this event. We have invited the Governor of Queensland to unveil this plaque.
Our Web Site has been upgraded to bring it into the 21st Century. If you look at this site you will notice the
changes that we are making. You will now be able to download any of the pages from this Site.
The Nominal Roll that has been hosted by IX Web hosting for many years. This company IX Web hosting was
taken over by a larger Company namely Verio.com. This has caused great upheaval as it changed our site. When
we attempt to place names on the roll, we are unable to display the web hosting page and I am hoping this
rectification will enable me to bring this site back from America to Australia in the near future.
As your President, I attend many meetings ie, ANZAC Day Trust, RSL Meetings, Queensland Advisory
Committee for the Commemoration of the Anzac Centenary (QACCAC), and many other meeting that are held
in Brisbane.
TREASURER’S REPORT (Neal Freier)
Hello fellow Nashos and members. I recently presented my bi-annual financial report
at the State General Meeting held at Beaudesert. I was happy with our financial position
and so were the members in attendance.
On the subject of the very successful Delegates Meeting followed by the General
Meeting, I am sure all who attended will agree the whole conference was very successful
and absolutely great. The venue was perfect, the Beaudesert area is just beautiful, the
well organised day trips on the coaches were very good. Meals and entertainment were
first class and everyone was friendly. I was pleasantly amazed with the incredible
support and backing the local Beaudesert authorities gave to the Beaudesert Nashos who
are well respected and held in high regard
I personally have never attended a conference as good as and well run as this one. It was “The Best Ever” and
l congratulate and thank the Beaudesert Nashos for their splendid effort. You have done yourselves proud.
Moving back to finances, we were recently successful with one of our grant applications to DVA and we received
$49,700 which enables us to manage our administration costs which include wages for our very efficient office
lady, Ingrid. I have just been advised that another grant application for $10,000 has been approved and that
money is to be spent in the Everyman’s Hut for a full screen and projector for conferences. We are waiting to
hear about a grant application which will solve our problems for restoration works at our Wacol precinct. Also
I am waiting to see how our annual application for a grant from the Anzac Day Committee Trust Fund goes. We
should get a result by the time this edition goes to print.
I addressed the conference at Beaudesert about spending on welfare to assist members who are in need. As we
age we all need assistance in some form so please don’t hesitate to step up financially to assist your ageing Nasho
members
Well that’s all folks for this edition We are solvent and able to meet all current costs.
I wish everyone a Happy and Healthy Christmas and hope all will be well for all of you in 2019
PAGE 1NAMING OF THE SGT.FRANK WUST BRIDGE
‘Article form Journal of the PIB-NGIB-HQ-
PIR Association, used with permission.
Our Association, and specifically Secretary
Kev Horton and Vice-President Greg Ivey,
have assisted the Qld Government to honour
our founding President, Frank Wust, through
the naming of a major bridge at Caboolture,
Qld. Frank not only served with the Papuan
Infantry Battalion and the New Guinea Infantry
Battalions during World War 2 but also was an
active and well-known member of the
Caboolture district. The ceremony was held on
21 June 2018.
The late Sgt Frank Wust was an iconic Aussie
in many ways. He was quietly spoken but
stood up for what he believed in, had an
understated, wicked sense of humour, a deep sense of pride in having worn the Australian Army Uniform –
especially his old ‘slouch hat’ – raised a wonderful family with his wife Shirley in Caboolture and was the sort
of bloke you were proud to call your mate.
He served his country well during WWII spending most of his time in various theatres of war in Papua New
Guinea including Finschhafen, Wau, Bulolo Valley, Markham Valley, Bougainville, Ramu River and New
Britain. Frank volunteered to fight alongside, and took leadership positions with, the indigenous soldiers of
the Papuan Infantry Battalion and later the New Guinea Infantry Battalions. These were not the well-known
‘fuzzy wuzzy angels’ but were the 3850 barefoot Papua New Guinea jungle fighters who fought alongside
about 500 Australians mostly in dangerous ‘behind the lines’ roles. After the War, Frank took advantage of
every opportunity to increase awareness of the vital role played by these battalions of indigenous PNG soldiers
in the successful defence of PNG.
Our Association is made up of ex-Servicemen including a few remaining WWII Veterans who served in the
PIB or NGIB and others, including National Servicemen, who served in PNG as part of the Pacific Islands
Regiment after WWII, leading up to PNG Independence in 1975. For several of our members, our first contact
with Frank was in about 2004 when he invited us to march with him behind the PIB NGIB Banner on ANZAC
Day in Brisbane. Frank’s welcoming nature and our shared experience of working side by side with PNG
soldiers enabled a special bond to develop between us. With the demise of the Sydney-based PIR Association
and falling numbers of WWII PNG veterans, a new Qld-based Association combined the two groups in 2007.
Frank became the inaugural President of the combined Associations in 2007 and continued in this role until
his passing in 2014. He represented us on many occasions including Kokoda Day and Remembrance Day
Services. He was held in high regard by all who met him from the former Governor-General to school children
whom he addressed on many occasions. We were fortunate to have marched side by side with him on ANZAC
Day in Brisbane for many years as he proudly led us in front of the Banner you see here behind me, with his
sons Ian and Noel as flag bearers and family members in support.
Several years ago it was brought to my attention that the family had been approached about the possibility of
this bridge being named in Frank’s honour but the idea appeared to have been shelved. Our Association
believed that there was no person more deserving of local recognition in perpetuity than Sgt Frank Wust, so
with the backing of our members and the Wust family, the idea was reignited.
An initial letter to the Moreton Shire Mayor Alan Sutherland, about 3 years ago has led me, as Secretary and
a great admirer of Frank, to embark on a long and at times frustrating journey through various levels of red
tape. The faint light at the end of the tunnel has reached the end of the bridge - culminating in today’s naming
ceremony. Seeing the pride and joy on the faces of the Wust family here today has made it all worthwhile.
PAGE 2There are many people to thank for their assistance. Letters of support were received from the Caboolture-
Morayfield RSL Sub-Branch, the Caboolture Historical Society, the Kabi Kabi Traditional Owners (special
thanks to Kerry Neill from Nambour) and Local Councillor- Adrian Raedel. Advice was forthcoming from all
three State Government Members of Parliament whose electorates adjoin the Kilcoy bypass. Since obtaining
initial approval from Neil Scales, the Director-General of Transport & Main Roads, special thanks go to Andrea
Turner and her assistant, Rhiannon Simms for helping organize this event. I contacted Andrea so many times
I’m sure she thought I was stalking her. Thank you Leah Mackenzie for capably chairing this event today.
Many thanks also to Greg Raedel for his assistance with the marquee, chairs and PA from the Historical Society
and thanks to Mark Perkins of the Caboolture Show Society, represented here today by Past President Roger
Dunstan, for allowing us to use this venue. To the Honourable Mark Ryan - thanks for making time in your busy
schedule to officiate at this ceremony.
My final thanks go to the Vice –President of our Association, Greg Ivey, who took over some last-minute
organization, meetings, sending e-mails etc. so that I would not miss out on my 15th consecutive annual fishing
week with my mates from the Kingaroy Lions Club last week. Thanks Greg – the crabs were tasty and the fish
were biting. In having this bridge named to honour him, Frank joins Lt General Alan Boase, whom the local
RSL Sub-Branch advocated to have Boase Park, just up the road in Elimbah, so named.
To conclude, like his daughter Trish, I wonder how Frank would have reacted to this honour. He liked to
keep things ‘low key.’ When he was awarded Honorary Life Membership and a framed Certificate from our
Association on Kokoda Day, 2014, the occasion was quite emotional for him, and some present shed a tear or
two, but all was put in perspective by Frank’s quiet aside to his daughter, “Ah well, another bloody nail in the
wall”, followed by a shared chuckle. It was this sort of understated comment which helped endear Frank to all
who knew him.
“Well Frank – you’ll need a couple of damned big nails to hang this one on the wall!”
LIFE MEMBERSHIP OF THE ASSOCIATION
At the recent State Conference held in Beaudesert, Kevin Keys, Vice-President of Ipswich and Geoffrey
Murray, Treasurer of the Caboolture were awarded Life Membership of the Association. Kevin’s Citation
covered his long standing career as President, Vice-President and Welfare Officer in the Branch and
hundreds of hours work at Wacol. Geoffrey was rewarded for his long standing involvement in Branch,
Community and Branch Fund Raising Activities.
PAGE 3CROWDS FAREWELL LEGEND OF NT LEAGUE
1/724232 Phillip James De La Cruz did his initial Nasho training
in Wacol 1/57 and did Follow Up training with 51st Infantry
Battalion ‘D’ Company RQR
Extract from NT NEWS
Hundreds gathered at the Nightcliff Sports Club to celebrate the
life of one of Darwin’s greatest rugby league players. Phil de la
Cruz, a star with Wallabies, Nightcliff, RSL and Northern Suburbs
throughout the 1960s and 70s, will be farewelled with a memorial
service at the Club. Captain of the Northern Territory which gave
France a run for their money in 1964, the utility was also named
in the first indigenous team to play overseas in 1973.
The eldest of eight children, de la Cruz was born in Mossman,
North Queensland, where he spent his first seven years before
shifting to Innisfail, winning Queensland boxing’s coveted Golden
Gloves three times. But rugby league was his main game, and
Top End fans were lucky enough to witness the majority of de la
Cruz’s senior career.
Beginning at Wallabies in 1960 as a lock forward, the versatile
utility soon shifted to the newly formed Nightcliff Dragons where
he would go on to win five titles. Regarded as a tough front on
defender and magnificent
ball carrier, de la Cruz
moved to Papua New Guinea in 1965 for twelve months with wife Judith.
It was there that he was picked for the PNG National team which toured
Cairns in 1965.
Brother Norm shifted from Wallabies to play alongside Phil on his return
to Nightcliff in 1966, with both going on to represent the Territory against
Great Britain in the same year. It was during this time that NT Coach
Noel Turvey described de la Cruz as “the best Captain I have seen and
had the joy to work with”.
Switching to RSL in 1970, and winning a grand final the next year, de la
Cruz captained coached the club for another three seasons until Cyclone
Tracy. Continuing with football in 1976, he moved to Northern Suburbs,
winning two consecutive grand finals before retiring and coaching the
Sharks to a premiership in 1979.
Former teammate and dear friend Stem Edwards said de la Cruz was an
“absolute icon”. “He was a true gentleman, he was kind to everyone and
was a great teacher, everyone loved Phil de la Cruz and I never heard
anyone say one bad word about him”.
De La Cruz passed away suddenly aged 79 and is survived by his wife Judith, and children, Tresna, Samantha,
Damian and Phil.
DISCOUNTS FOR VETERANS
PRIME Minister Scott Morrison has spoken of a “culture of respect” for veterans as he rolled out a new scheme
inviting big business to offer discounts to Australian veterans. Details of the benefits that will come with the
card, which Morrison is encouraging businesses to take part in by showing their appreciation to Australian
servicemen and women. Complying major businesses will offer percentage discounts to veterans. The reported
percentages where between 5 and 10 per cent. Details of the discounts and complying businesses have not been
announced, but Woolworths, Coles, Kmart, Bunnings, Target, NRMA and Clubs Australia announced they are
supportive of the scheme. The aim is for veterans of Australia’s defence force to receive discounts on a number
of services from groceries to everyday bills to assist with the cost of living.
PAGE 4STRATEGIC PLAN 2018 – 2023
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Following the stated goals and abiding by documented policies, procedures and using this Strategic Plan as a
living document to guide NSAA Qld will not be enough to guarantee the future of the Organisation. Aggressive
plans, promotions and programs will need to be introduced and maintained to ensure our continued survival.
These programmes will need to be innovative and continue to enhance our standing as a supporter of veterans
and their needs while obviously meeting the needs of veterans, members, committee members, volunteers and
other stakeholders.
Administration of NSAA Qld and prioritising the functions and activities within the organisation is a major focal
point. We have in place robust policies and procedures but these policies and procedures need to be continually
updated and enhanced. Funding, grant registers and maintenance of financial policies and procedures forms an
integral part of the organisation’s accountability process.
We take great pride in our contribution to the support of veterans across Queensland. Through effective marketing
to raise the organisation’s profile and by taking advantage of advertising and sponsorship opportunities, we aim
to continue to grow and evolve.
Over the next five years many challenges will be faced, with goals set and achieved. The availability of funding
and access to grants and corporate sponsorships will form the key financial strategies required to fund the
marketing and administration of NSAA Qld. All this will provide the structure for continued growth in the
delivery of our services, retention of the vital volunteer base and ensure a high and consistent standard of our
facilities and infrastructure
This Strategic Plan forms the framework through which the stated goals and objectives of NSAA Qld can
be realised over the next five years. The 20187/2019 Operational Plan details the specific initiatives to be
implemented this year. With the overarching Strategic Plan and the yearly specific Operational Plans in place
the organisation is now well placed to facilitate further development and growth of veteran’s support. In this
regard NSAA Qld can look forward to a fruitful and prosperous future.
The plan examined four areas effecting the Association – STRENGTHS, WEAKNESS, OPPORTUNITIES
AND THREATS. After the areas were considered six Key Responsibility Areas
• Volunteer Development and Recruitment: Increase volunteer levels and develop volunteer skills and
capabilities.
• Administration: Continue to develop and implement appropriate administrative policies and Continue to
operate s transparent, accountable and financially viable organization
• Delivery of Services: Enhance the capacity to deliver more services to veterans; Be identified as a viable
and reputable advocacy for veterans;
• Government and Philanthropic: To realize funding through preparation of relevant submissions for funding;
Upgrade organization facilities.
• Sponsorship, Marketing and Fundraising: Increase revenue to provide adequate funding to achieve all
strategic outcomes; Increase awareness of the organization in the general public domain and the business
sector; to be more creative in fundraising; Continue to ensure that fundraising opportunities contribute
100% of normal revenue.
• Facility Management: To have high quality buildings and facilities : Develop and enhance heritage precinct.
If you want more information on the Strategic Plan, contact your Branch Secretary
PAGE 5Beaudesert Conference
Lunch at Dugandan Hotel Morning Tea at Robotic Dairy
And the Rain came down Tony and Bev Stevenson, Lois and Alex Garlin
Catafalque party Unveilling Plaque
Delegates Meeting Welcome Banner at RSL
PAGE 6LAST POST
This LAST Post includes Nashos who are not
members of the Association. No Branch is
shown beside these Nashos
1/714121 ABBEY, Neville John Wacol, 3/54 Townsville
1/715236 ALLEN, Victor Graham Wacol,1/55 Cairns
2/721633 BIDDLE, Ronald Keith Holdsworthy, 2/53 Gold Coast North
1/724232 DeLaCRUZ, Phillip James Wacol, 1/57 Darwin
1/711643 DUNPHY, James Matthews Wacol, 2/54 Bundaberg
1/702888 FRESHNEY, Wilfred Mervyn Wacol, 2/52 Maryborough
1735029 HOGAN, John Michael Singleton, 1/69 Rockhampton
1/706496 HOGAN, Thomas Michael Wacol, 1/53 Mackay
1/712422 HOOPERT, Errol Edwin (EE) Wacol,2/54 Toowoomba
1/711603 HUNTER, Noel Garnett Wacol, 2/54 Unattached
1805NS KAVANAGH, John Patrick Burke 1 1/52
1/718636 LOWE, Edward Arthur Wacol, 3/55 Mackay
1/727112 MANGANO, Francesco Antonio (Frank) Wacol, 1/58 Redlands
1/723866 MARMENT, Alexander Walter Wacol, 3/56 Maryborough
NS1372 McKECHNIE, Hector Norman HMAS Cerebus, 2/51 Bayside
A215624 McLAUGHLIN, Robin Rathmines, 3/56 Redlands
2/713665 MOORE, Neil William (Tiger) Holdsworthy, 3/52 Toowoomba
3/786010 MORGAN, Charles John Puckapunyal, 2/59 Rockhampton
A115291 MURRAY, James Dale Amberley, 1/54 Mckay
2/773885 PERROTT, Terrace Henry (Terry) Puckapunyal, 3/58 Gold Coast North
1/705108 PUDDLE, Douglas James Wacol. 3/52 Maryborough
1/730469 SCHMIDT, Douglas William Wacol, 3/59 Dalby
1/701492 SPARKS, Noel John Wacol, 1/52 Brisbane North
1/730603 WARD, Raymond Joseph Wacol, 4/59 Toowoomba
1/706752 VICTORSEN, Neil Wacol, 1/53 Brisbane South
LEST WE FORGET
THEY SERVED AUSTRALIA
THE PADRE’S CORNER. Thomas S. Andrews, OAM. (State Padre).
G’DAY EVERYONE. Greetings to you all. This true story which I read the
other day really touched my heart because, though it was about the birth and survival
of a little girl, it was my story too. Back in 1937 on January 11, in Bowen North
Queensland, I was born, to my parents Fred and Maggie Andrews, in the house which
was our home. No hospital in those days. I don’t remember how premature I was but
I know I weighed only one pound eleven ounces and Dad could hold me in the palm
of his hand. I am told that my parents were told things similar to those in the story but
now I know, that my heavenly Father, God, held me in the palm of His hand and here I
am here today, over 81 years later, able to relate this to you. Back in those days many,
similar to me, did not survive and live to fulfil such a full life that I hope and pray has
been a blessing to many that I have had contact with over these years. May God richly
bless you each one, today and always.
PAGE 7The Smell of Rain.
A cold March wind danced around the dead of night in Dallas as the doctor walked into the small hospital
room of Diana Blessing. She was still groggy from surgery. Her husband, David, held her hand as they
braced themselves for the latest news. That afternoon of March 10, 1991, complications had forced Diana, only
24-weeks pregnant, to have an emergency caesarean to deliver the couple’s new daughter, Dana Lu Blessing.
At 12 inches long and weighing only one pound nine ounces, they already knew she was perilously premature.
Still, the doctor’s soft words dropped like bombs. “I don’t think she’s going to make it,” he said, as kindly as
he could. “There’s only a 10-percent chance she will live through the night, and even then, if by some slim
chance she does make it, her future could be a very cruel one”
Numb with disbelief, David and Diana listened as the doctor described the devastating problems Dana would
likely face if she survived. She would never walk, she would never talk, she would probably be blind, and she
would certainly be prone to other catastrophic conditions from cerebral palsy to complete mental retardation,
and on and on. “No! No!” was all Diana could say. She and David, with their 5-year-old son Dustin, had long
dreamed of the day they would have a daughter to become a family of four. Now, within a matter of hours,
that dream was slipping away.
But as those first days passed, a new agony set in for David and Diana. Because Dana’s underdeveloped nervous
system was essentially ‘raw’, the lightest kiss or caress only intensified her discomfort, so they couldn’t even
cradle their tiny baby girl against their chests to offer the strength of their love. All they could do, as Dana
struggled alone beneath the ultraviolet light in the tangle of tubes and wires, was to pray that God would stay
close to their precious little girl.
There was never a moment when Dana suddenly grew stronger. But as the weeks went by, she did slowly gain
an ounce of weight here and an ounce of strength there. At last, when Dana turned two months old her parents
were able to hold her in their arms for the very first time. And two months later, though doctors continued to
gently but grimly warn that her chances of surviving, much less living any kind of normal life, were next to
zero, Dana went home from the hospital, just as her mother had predicted.
Five years later, when Dana was a petite but feisty young girl with glittering gray eyes and an unquenchable zest
for life. She showed no signs whatsoever of any mental or physical impairment. Simply, she was everything
a little girl can be and more. But that happy ending is far from the end of her story.
One blistering afternoon in the summer of 1996 near her home in Irving, Texas, Dana was sitting in her
mother’s lap in the bleachers of a local ball park where her brother Dustin’s baseball team was practicing.
As always, Dana was chattering nonstop with her mother and several other adults sitting nearby when she
suddenly fell silent. Hugging her arms across her chest, little Dana asked, “Do you smell that?” Smelling the
air and detecting the approach of a thunderstorm, Diana replied, “Yes, it smells like rain.” Dana closed her eyes
and again asked, “Do you smell that?” Once again, her mother replied, “Yes, I think we’re about to get wet.
It smells like rain.” Still caught in the moment, Dana shook her head, patted her thin shoulders with her small
hands and loudly announced, “No, it smells like Him. It smells like God when you lay your head on His chest.”
Tears blurred Diana’s eyes as Dana happily hopped down to play with the other children.
Before the rains came, her daughter’s words confirmed what Diana and all the members of the extended
Blessing family had known, at least in their hearts, all along. During those long days and nights of her first two
months of her life, when her nerves were too sensitive for them to touch her, God was holding Dana on His
chest and it is His loving scent that she remembers so well. “I can do all things in Him who strengthens
me.”
This morning when the Lord opened a window to Heaven, He saw me, and He asked: “My child, what is your
greatest wish for today?” I responded: “Lord please, take care of the person who is reading this message, their
family and their special friends. They deserve it and I love them very much”. The love of God is like the ocean,
you can see its beginning, but not its end.
ANGELS EXIST but sometimes, since they don’t all have wings, we call them FRIENDS.
PAGE 8BRANCH NEWS
Edited by John Hardy (john.hardy51@bigpond com)
Under the Privacy Act, details about the person including
Birthdays, illness and hospitalization cannot be included to
Branch News without the person’s consent.
Closing Date Wednesday 9th January Folding Date Friday 1st February
BAYSIDE BRANCH: (Meets 1st Tuesday of the month at 10.30 at Wynnum RSL Tingal Rd Wynnum).
A group of our members and supporters attended an excellent State conference at Beaudesert in
from 11 to 14 October. Our delegates attended the meetings and looked after our interests while
nutting out strategies for our future. The rest of us had a great time on two bus tours driving all
over the beautiful Scenic Rim – in the rain! That didn’t spoil our time in the area and Beaudesert
are to be congratulated on their organisation and the friendly vibe all through the weekend. Of
course a highlight was that our padre, Tom Andrews was at his sartorial best as seen in the photo.
He forgot to pack his trousers---well done Tom! Our branch conducted a moving Vietnam Vets
service at our memorial at Darling Point with breakfast afterwards at the Sea Scouts. In August
Bayside lost a very dedicated and enthusiastic Nasho-Norm McKechnie. Norm served several
terms as president in the 11 years he was a Bayside Nasho. Members provided an impressive guard
of honour at his funeral and he would have been very touched by the support shown both to him
and his family. Our branch is now gearing up for badge selling for Remembrance Day sponsored
again by Bartons car dealership. We are very grateful for their support. All we have left for this
year now is the Remembrance Day Service at Darling Point, a sausage sizzle at Bunnings, the
Bayside Belles morning tea and our Christmas Luncheon on Saturday 8th Dec. We wish one and
all a safe and happy Christmas and New Year. Branch contact: Secretary Pat Dunne, PH: 33968732.
BEAUDESERT: (Meetings 1st Monday of even months 1030hrs. Venue: Beaudesert RSL Function Room)
The members of our Conference Committee are now relaxing after the recent NASHO State Conference in
Beaudesert. We are sure that everyone had an enjoyable weekend with us in spite of the damp conditions. Our
special thanks to Brian & Robyn Buckby who did most of the organising for the Conference, they were both
presented with plaques at our Conference Dinner. A Memorial to National
Servicemen was unveiled in Jubilee Park at the church service on Sunday morning.
We are thankful for the support that we received from the Scenic Rim Regional
Council, the Beaudesert RSL Sub-Branch, local businesses and our Members of
Parliament. We have been saddened by the death of two of our members this
month and formed a guard of honour at their funerals. On 20th October many of
our members attended the dedication service of a Memorial to “The Australian
Volunteers” as show in the photo. It is adjacent to the Beaudesert RSL Club. This
was a project of the Beaudesert RSL Sub-Branch to mark the centenary of the end
of WW1. The dedication was performed by Major General John Pearn. Many of
our members continue to enjoy a morning tea in the park following our Committee
Meetings. We have our end of year luncheon at the Beaudesert RSL Club on
Monday 3rd December. Photo: Some of our members with Ph: 07 3200 5586 Mobile 0413 897 608.
BEENLEIGH-LOGAN: (Meeting: 4th Monday each month 1000 hrs. Venue: Beenleigh RSL)
Hello to fellow Nasho’s, as we approach the Christmas holiday and festive season. Our branch held a Christmas
get together with lunch and raffles. This was enjoyed by all. The Beenleigh-Logan Branch would like to extend
best wishes and season greetings to all our Nasho News readers and the people who make it all happen! The one
and only outing this quarter was a bus trip to Toowoomba for viewing of the Carnival of Flowers, which Toowoomba
is renowned for! This was once again a combination of Beaudesert and Beenleigh/Logan Branches. Those that went
to Toowoomba on the Sunstate Coaches tour were impressed with coach driver who took them all around and
specifically to the champion garden. Reports back to the author were nothing but impressive. Lunch was at the City
Golf Club where our events co-ordinator Carol, arranged lucky door prizes! The trip also included a visit to
Toowoomba’s Queens Park; this is the local council’s contribution to the Carnival of Flowers, well worth the visit.
On a much sadder note we have two more names to add to the “Last Post” listing in the Nasho News. We have lost
two past members, “Owen Lister and Barrie Smith” both passed away in September. Condolences to the families.
Branch Contact: Secretary. Ph: 07 3299 6486.
PAGE 9BRIBIE ISLAND: (Meeting: 1st Tuesday each month at 1130 hours. Venue: 25 Boronia Drive, Bellara).
The past three months has been a busy time for Bribie Branch Nashos and supporters. We completed 500 poppies
as our contribution to the Queensland Government’s Armistice Centenary artwork which consists of 57,705 poppies
and look forward to viewing the completed project. Our President Roy Nicholas will represent the Bribie Nashos
at an Armistice Day ceremony to be held at the Bribie Island RSL. We welcomed Gordon Tunstall from Caboolture
to our luncheon and he talked about a combined function in October
which resulted in a group of Nashos and supporters joining with the
Caboolture Nashos to travel to Caloundra to attend a combined
function with the Sunshine Coast and Gympie members and
supporters. We enjoyed meeting new friends and catching up with
others. After a wonderful lunch of chicken and salad, a very
interesting talk was given by a Dietician. The Department of Veteran
Affairs provided excellent literature on healthy eating for healthy
ageing. An excellent day out and thanks to all the organisers. The Federal Member for Longman, Susan Lamb
attended our October meeting and lunch and will make a further visit to advise us on benefits available from the
Australian Federal Government. Members and supporters have worked hard to obtain donations from local
businesses and as a result we held a Nashos Super Raffle and the photo shows tickets being sold at our display
booth in the Bribie Island Mall from 16th to 19th October. Ray White Bribie Island have been kind enough to
advertise this major fundraising event on their electronic billboard which promoted the Nashos. First prize was a
garden trolley (kindly donated by Gordon Tunstall) which was filled with many items including a coffee machine,
a ladies watch, food vouchers, movie tickets, chocolates, men’s and ladies toiletries, etc. Our State Member Simone
Wilson kindly donated a large hamper for second prize and Woolworths have donated a $75 voucher for third prize.
Prizes were drawn at our November Melbourne Cup lunch – a great day was had by all and congratulations to the
winners. President Roy Nicholas wishes to extend Seasons Greetings to all Nashos and Supporters. Contact
President Roy Nicholas 07 3408 6654 and Publicity Officer John Price 0439 282 640.
BRISBANE EAST: (Meeting: 3rd Tuesday each month 1000 hours. Venue: Manly-Lota RSL Hall).
The Vietnam medals belonging to Brisbane East Branch Assistant Treasurer, Allen May, have become part of
Australia’s military history at the Australian War Memorial. The Forward Scout for D Company, 6 Battalion of the
Royal Australian Regiment, fired the first shot in the iconic Battle of Long Tan
in Vietnam on 18 August 1966. Allen’s medals will join his letter from Long
Tan to his Mother after the battle in the Long Tan exhibit at the Memorial. The
handover to the AWM Director, Dr.Brendan Nelson (left in photo), was
watched by the Minister for Foreign Affairs Senator the Hon. Marise Payne.
She was Minister for Defence when invited to give the Address at the annual
Service at the National Service Memorial and asked to be able to keep the
engagement. D company found itself in an intense fire fight with an estimated
2,500 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong troops in a surprise encounter in a
rubber plantation in a monsoonal downpour. At the end when Australian
reinforcements arrived, 18 Australians had died, including 11 National
Servicemen and the enemy had lost a confirmed 250 soldiers but probably many more because of the Communists’
policy of removing dead and wounded to prevent accurate casualty counts. Allen launched his book, The Luck of
the Draw, about his National Service at the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia National Council
meeting in Canberra. Branch contact (Allen Callaghan Secretary 07 3265 1523).
BRISBANE NORTH: (Meeting: 1st Sunday each month 1000 hours. Venue: Kedron Wavell Services Club).
Following a very popular boat trip last year when we boarded the “Lady Brisbane” to the Gold Coast, we rejoined
the Lady again. This time it was all aboard for the upper reaches of the Brisbane River, as far as the Bremer
Junction. A beautiful day on the river and to see some of the stately homes built on the river’s edge made for a great
day. The photo shows some of the group waiting for the bus to take us back to
Kedron Wavell. Brekkie Creek Raffle sales are going well but manning this
event is becoming difficult with age creeping up on us. A similar situation with
our Memorabilia Sales for Remembrance Day, however we are soldiering on
with a few less outlets. A Picnic at Woody Point is on schedule, following a
cancellation of an earlier date due to heavy rain. Our Christmas Function is
scheduled for Saturday 8th December at Kedron Wavell, where we will see 8
more OBE presentations. An open invitation is extended to other branches, just
contact Marlene Faulkner on 3261 1980. Branch Contact Secretary Trevor
Koks 07 3261 2688. Further info Brian Nichols 0419 717 354.
PAGE 10BRISBANE SOUTH: (Meeting: Last Sunday each month 0930 hours. Venue: Runcorn Tavern).
The Branch has a new venue for monthly meetings as of October 2018. Our previous venue, Sunnybank Bowls
Club, has sadly closed. This month our bus and boat trip to the Noosa has been well supported. We all hope the
rain will clear. Six members attended the State Conference, hosted this year by Beaudesert Branch. Congratulations
to them for hosting a friendly, well organized event. Planning is well under way for Remembrance Day sales. With
the year rapidly closing planning is also well under way for the Branch Christmas party. Branch contact: Len
Ramsay, Branch Secretary, 07-32095541.
BUNDABERG: (Meeting: 2nd Saturday of the month 1330 hrs. Venue: Bundaberg RSL Board Room)
Hi all. Well, here we are it is the end of November already and Christmas holidays are being planned!! Where do
these years go now? The Branch is continuing along OK and the advent of the subsidised members meals keep the
numbers interested enough and does keep meeting numbers
constant. We are still a solvent branch! The last coach trip was once
again down to Maryborough to view the now completed WWI
memorial which was dedicated on 21 July. It features Maryborough’s
Lt. Duncan Chapman, 9th Battalion who was the first man ashore
at Gallipoli from the lead boat that landed at Anzac Cove in the
early hours of April 25, 1915. All grey nomads who pass through
the city should take the small detour to the Queens Gardens and
view this wonderful memorial. The photo is of our tour party posing
with Lt Chapman. The information boards explain everything in
the area. The small pebbles in front of Lt Chapman’s feet actually
came from Gallipoli. The sand that was in his footsteps also came
from Gallipoli as a gift from the Turkish Government. On departing from the city, we travelled down to Hervey
Bay for lunch and a drive along the Esplanade before heading for home. Our next outing is yet another subsidised
meal at a local hotel and there is one final coach tour to be conducted in November to a location to be advised by
the Social Secretary, Brian Trost. Planning is now underway for our end of year Christmas luncheon being part
hosted by our Patron, Mr Stephen Bennett MP. Branch contact Secretary Brian Trost 07 4151 3485.
CABOOLTURE and DISTRICT: (Meeting 2nd. Monday each month 1000 hrs for 1030 hrs start. Venue
Caboolture RSL Club, Hasking Street).
In lieu of a normal October General Meeting, branch members and their partners travelled north by coach for a
“Gathering of the Clans” social outing at Golden Beach, Caloundra, hosted by our Sunshine Coast neighbours to
celebrate Veterans’ Health Week. We were joined by Bribie Island members, along with several S.M.C. officers and
the National President, Earle Jennings. A contingent from Gympie also travelled south for the picnic-style meeting.
After a rousing presentation on healthy eating by a Nutritionist from the Wellbeing Centre of Caloundra, everyone
enjoyed a nutritious luncheon under cover. Our Sunshine Coast hosts,
especially their ladies and Social Director, Joe Borg, are to be commended
for their catering prowess. Well done! Ominous clouds appeared when it
was time to depart – a fortuitous decision as the Sunshine Coast was soon
to be battered by severe storm cells accompanied by driving rain. Thanks
go to our Vice-President, Gordon Tunstall, for his efforts in organising
this enjoyable meet-and-greet recreational outing. Later that week, the
branch was well represented at the State Conference hosted by the
Beaudesert branch, with Colin Rohlf (President), Geoffrey Murray
(Treasurer), Vince Koch (Member) and Gordon Tunstall (Vice-President)
– shown L. to R. in the accompanying photograph – attending the full
conference, while Graeme Marlow (Secretary) drove down in the rain to attend the Saturday meetings. Debate
centered about the Association’s future and, at times, was quite intense. The future role/existence of the Wacol N.S.
heritage precinct also came under close scrutiny; some questions remain to be answered. Without a doubt, the
highlight for the branch’s Delegates was to see Life Membership conferred upon branch stalwart and long-serving
Treasurer, Geoffrey Murray. Congratulations, Geoffrey! The conference hosts, well supported by Local, State and
Federal Government representatives, produced a top-notch event enjoyed by all. Well done, Beaudesert branch!
Branch Contact: Secretary Graeme Marlow (07) 5498 8037.
CAIRNS and DISTRICT: (Meetings 2nd Thursday each month at 10:30am Venue: Upstairs at the Cairns RSL
boardroom.)
The aging factor is a concern for many of our Branches and Cairns is no different than many of others but, those
making the effort to travel to outlying centers have the rewards of keeping in touch with our Nasho family. We had
members in attendance our dedication services at Rocky Creek and Vietnam Veterans Day in Cairns.
PAGE 11It really is worthwhile visiting Rocky Creek War Memorial Park, where nearby the WWII Entertainment igloo has
been fully restored. It is also worth to visit the Yungaburra Afghanistan Avenue of Honour. Our last Nasho Tri-
Branch shoot was held at Kurrimine Beach in August and proved to be a very enjoyable days outing. Top gun on
the day was Lawrence Calleja on 284 points, second, Rob Sanders on 281 points, both are from Innisfail, and Pat
Galwey, Cairns on 278. I am happy to say that this time we had the best average of 268, followed by Innisfail on
253 and Tableland, 245. Once again we are again grateful to Tableland and Innisfail for organizing the shooting
days and not forgetting the members of the shooting clubs for their hospitality and friendship through the year. We
close the year by welcoming in the Festive Season on Sunday 2 December with our Branch Christmas lunch.
Wishing all Nashos, supporters, families and friends a happy Christmas and best wishes for a Healthy and Peaceful
2019. Branch Contact: President Fred Cave Ph 0408 173 112.
CORAL COAST: (Meeting: 2nd Sunday of month at 1030 hrs: Venue: Rose Room, Cunningham Homes, Tollington
Road, Bowen)
Bowen Branch enjoyed a wonderful reunion of members and supporters from Townsville, Burdekin, Mackay and
Callide back in July. However, Gladstone were unable to attend due to mainly to health reasons. We were fortunate
to have a new venue which enabled our members and supporters having to do the minimal of work. We all met at
the Merinda Hotel and could say not enough of positive things about the staff who were a great help and also the
venue. We had our usual raffles and Alan was able to pick up the produce with some help, as well as a fish tray
that was kindly donated. We again had our entertainment group from Callide, who were greatly appreciated as
always. On our Remembrance Day that is coming up, we will be having a short service at Cunningham Homes for
the residents, conducted by our Padre Alf, after we will attend the main service at the cenotaph at 11 a.m. Our plans
for our Christmas luncheon are being organised well in advance and we look forward to the gathering at the
Larrikin Hotel, which will be our meeting day as well. Details will be in our local paper. Wishing all members
and supporters a Safe and Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous New Year. Branch Contact- Edna
Sanderson, Secretary, ph. 0747861527.
GOLD COAST NORTH: (Meeting: 2nd Tuesday each even month 0930 hours. Venue: Mudgeeraba Light Horse
and National Servicemen’s Precinct, Mudgeeraba Showground. BBQ to follow meeting.)
Friday, August 10th saw 24 members and partners enjoying a great coach trip to Ballina RSL Club to catch their
“Morning Melodies Show” in a somewhat overcrowded theatre though thoroughly entertained by the very talented
musical ensemble. Following a well catered lunch selection it was off to the Summerland Antiques and Garden
Centre where us antique Nashos wandered through the maze of antique goodies. Our good member Bill Walker and
his wife, Voila, offered to host a luncheon at their home on September 6th to celebrate Father’s Day with some 40
members and their partners gladly attending. Five long tables were set out on the back patio overlooking a lovely
garden. Voila, ably assisted by her sister-in-law, had prepared a very nice Greek meal of delicious salads and
savoury dishes followed by yummy desserts. a Father’s Day cake was then cut by our most senior member, Roy
Payne, on behalf of all fathers grand and great in our branch; all followed by tea and coffee. A special thanks go to
Bill and Voila and their assistants for their efforts. As a goodly number of our members and their partners contribute
much time and assistance along with other volunteers to the operation of the Light Horse Museum, it was much
appreciated to be invited on September 12th to a luncheon at the Nerang RSL Club given by the Museum
management in recognition of our input. Some 30 guests attended included The Honourable Ms Ros Bates, State
member for Mudgeeraba, and Councillor Glen Tozer of the Gold Coast City Council. Our branch members were
saddened to hear the passing on September 15th of long time mate, Terence Perrott. Terence was for many years
involved as branch Treasurer before relocating to Canberra to be with family. To his wife Shirley and family we
extend our condolences. Branch contact: Jeff Wootten, Publicity Officer, Ph 07 5546 6888. Gold Coast North
branch contact: Jeff Wootten, Ph. 55466888.
GOLD COAST TWIN TOWNS: (Meeting: 3rd Friday Bi Monthly odd months at 10 am QLD Time and 11 am
NSW Time. Venue: RSL Twin-Towns, Anzac Room, Tweed Heads NSW).
Here we are almost at the end of another year very busy for some and not so busy for others. We had a bus trip for
our members recently with only 21 being available due to sickness etc. We visited the Madura Tea Factory with a
conducted tour. Evidently, the location and soil are perfect for growing tea. The tea plants are in hedge like rows
with a flat top that allows a harvester to skim the first two leaves off the top. We then went on through Bogangar
and Cudgen observing the large housing development taking place, and then returned to Kingscliff where we had
an excellent lunch at the Kingscliff Beach Bowls Club. After lunch we headed to “The Rowan Robinson Park”
Memorial named in memory of a local lad who died while fighting with the Australian Army in Afghanistan, Sapper
Robinson was killed by insurgents on his second tour of Afghanistan on 6 June 2011 and according to his wishes
his ashes were scattered out near the Kingscliff bombies where he loved to surf. Due to a shower of rain, our visit
had to be cut short. However, we did get to see the proposed new Tweed Valley Hospital site at Kingscliff.
PAGE 12Sixteen hectares has been set aside on high ground, and it will be very
interesting to see how it all progresses. We held our last General
Meeting for this year on November 23 and our Christmas Lunch on
December 7. May we look forward to seeing many members there on
the day? We take this chance to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas
and a Healthy 2019. Branch Contact: Noreen Hughes 0438 447 497.
GLADSTONE: (Meeting: 3rd Wednesday every odd month with a Social lunch on alternate months 1300hrs:
Venue: Rocky Glen hotel.)
Fifteen members and supporters enjoyed beautiful weather for their overnight visit to Yeppoon and Emu in August.
A stopover at the Rockhampton Gardens kiosk for lunch was followed by a visit to St. Christopher’s Chapel at
Nerimbera. Erected in 1943 by American servicemen, it
reflects the presence of American troops in Queensland
during W.W.2 and stands as the only structure of its kind
in Australia.” The Military precinct at Emu Park with its
memorable open air W.W.1 memorial and boardwalk was
the highlight of the trip. The newly developed Foreshore
area at Yeppoon provided just the right spot for a morning
coffee stop, and lunch in the pleasant surroundings of the
Yeppoon Sailing Club concluded the all to brief visit to
the beautiful Capricorn Coast.
Delegates from our branch attended the State Conference
at Beaudesert and reported on a very friendly conference.
Everyone’s Birthday was celebrated at the September
meeting with Brian Western and Les Snell joining the
honourable ranks of the OBEs’. and given the pleasure
of cutting the cake. Our meeting on 21st November and Christmas luncheon on 28th November at the Reef Hotel
will bring to a close what has been a very mixed/uncertain year for Gladstone branch. Merry Christmas 2018 to all
Nasho’s and supporters from Gladstone branch and “May you never be to grown up to search the skies on Christmas
Eve.” Branch contact Val Buchanan 0409766141.
GYMPIE BRANCH: (Meetings 2nd Sunday every three months at 1030hrs unless otherwise advised - Venue:
Meeting decides usually a barbecue).
Members travelled to Golden Beach Caloundra for a Meet and Greet with other branches. By all reports everybody
had a good day and I’m sure the event will happen again one day. Hopefully we will be able to host other branches
to our BBQs in the future. We are only small group but enjoy our get togethers. Branch members attended Vietnam
Veterans Day on 18th August celebrations this year and Remembrance Day on November 11th. As with all the
branches poor health seems to dog members but now warmer weather is on its way this will ease for all. The
President and members of Gympie Branch wish to extend to all NSAA members and their families all compliments
of the season and many thanks to those who take on the jobs on the committees. Merry Christmas to all and a happy
new year. Branch contact Secretary Gwen Bishop Ph. 0427 975 899 or email - gwendolinebishop68@gmail.com
HERVEY BAY: (Meeting: 4th Wednesday of the month 1000hrs. Venue: Hervey Bay RSL).
It’s that time of the year, when everything is building up for Christmas and holiday season. We at Hervey Bay since
the last Nasho News have attended 2 wreath laying ceremonies. The first being the Vietnam Veterans Day on the
18th August, and the second was the Biennial re-union of the 26th Engineer Support Troop, which was held on the
14th September, the same day as the Peacekeepers ceremony. The next meeting for 26th Engineer Support Troop
will be held in Foster N.S.W. in 2020. The information is for fellow Nasho who were in Engineers. Our nomination
Forms for the AGM in January have been sent out, with nominations to be handed in at our Annual Dinner. In
September we have a Sausage Sizzle on the AFL Grand Final Day, 29th September. We held our Annual Charter /
Supporters/Widows Dinner on the 24th October, where all members and supporters and widows gather for a meal,
which is also classed as a meeting. This has proved to be quiet a successful annual event. We have our President
and his partner attending the Beaudesert Conference as the Hervey Bay Representative in October. A prize at this
year’s dinner is a pen and ink drawing donated by our Secretary, for the 100 year anniversary of Armistice.
November proved to be very busy with selling of Pins and Badges from 4th till 10th November inclusive, wreath
laying on the 11th followed on 14th with a Social BBQ at Dayman Park in Urangan, then a General meeting on the
28th November.
PAGE 13On 2nd December we have our Christmas Party with over 35 members expected. There is also a Sausage Sizzle on
the 30th December. we are looking at forming a Sub-Committee to control and organise 2 future events. The first
being a Coach trip to Canberra to lay a wreath at the National Servicemen’s Memorial on National Servicemen’s
Day, 14th February 2020. This being the 10th anniversary, even though the dedication was the 8th September2010.
The second event being a State Conference in Hervey Bay. The dates for this being 27th September 2022 till 2nd
October 2022 this would coincide with the 50th Anniversary of the “Last Intake of National Servicemen”. We’ll
see how things eventuate. Merry Christmas to all Members and their families. Branch contact President Ian Debert
0429 803 562 or Secretary Brian Barker 0467 642 730.
INNISFAIL BABINDA TULLY: (Meeting: 4th Tuesday each month 1800hrs. Venue Innisfail RSL).
Several members attended the VP Day on 12 August at Rocky Creek WWII Memorial Park. A plaque initiated by
the Tableland Nashos was unveiled in memory of the many who served with Volunteer Defence Corps. Refreshments
were served afterwards in the wonderfully restored WWII entertainment igloo which had been the entertainment
facility when the largest Military Hospital complex in the
Southern Hemisphere was operational. The photo shows members
in the foreground L to R John Wakefield and Col Ritchie enjoying
lunch in the igloo. A service at the Innisfail Cenotaph for Vietnam
Day on 18 August was well attended. This commemorated the
Battle of Long Tan. On 25 August a rifle shoot at Kurrimine
Beach was hotly contested by Cairns, Tableland and our Branch.
This was an open sight competition and the winner once again
was Lawrence Calleja from this branch. Christmas lunch this year
will be held on 1 December at Innisfail RSL. Please let Secretary know if you will be attending. Branch contact,
Secretary, Margaret Saunders 0428 612 770.
REDLANDS: (Meeting: 1st Sunday each month 0945 for 1000 hours start. Venue: Gallipoli Room, Redlands RSL.)
Report from Eric Shaw, Branch President. At the time of writing our branch is putting a lot of time and effort into
planning for Remembrance Day. In addition to our own activities, we will give our support to the Troop Train
re-enactment from Brisbane to Cleveland sponsored by Redlands RSL and of course the Memorial Services. Several
of our members attended the State conference held at Beaudesert on 13 October. A vote of thanks is due to the
Beaudesert branch members who clearly put in much time and effort to ensure that the event was a success. Our
branch has decided to take up the suggestion made at the meeting by the Chairman that branches should discuss in
detail the Strategic Plan document and report their views to the SMC. Our branch has quickly identified the need
for clarification in some areas, e.g. that 80% of members support the improvement work at Wacol. In the case of our
branch we feel that an excellent job has been done on Wacol improvements; the standard is a credit to all involved.
This is not to say that our branch supports the large investment of funds into the site at this time nor are we likely to
be prepared to financially support the project in the future. More information is needed to dispel any misunderstandings.
Our members plan discussions on the document as soon as possible and our views will be promptly forwarded to the
S.M.C. Our branch members have enjoyed their last bus trip for the year which included a trip across Moreton Bay
to “Straddie” and the usual terrific morning tea, this time at the Brown Lake. Whale watching from Point Lookout
was limited, to say the least, owing to fairly rough seas which made it difficult to spot anything smaller than a Sydney
ferry. In spite of the doubtful weather everyone had a good time with lots of laughs. Although we have no more bus
trips planned, the social events calendar is still crowded. The recent dinner at the Sands Hotel was well attended and
two more social functions are planned to take place before the much anticipated Christmas luncheon. Branch Contact:
Les Warner, Membership / Development Officer, 07 3821 2894 Mobile 0450 577 186.
ROCKHAMPTON: (Meeting: 4th Wednesday of the month 1030hrs. Venue: Frenchville Sports Club)
It has been sad times for our Association with the loss of two long serving members – John Hogan and John “Morgs”
Morgan. John Hogan served as President from September 2002. His Service number was 1735029, and date of
intake was 29/1/1969 at 3TB/OTU at Scheyville NSW. He moved to the Royal Australian Infantry at Singleton NSW
attaining the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. John was heavily involved in the administration of Rugby League in
Rockhampton for which he was awarded the Australian Sports Medal on 29 September, 2000 for “Lifetime activity
in junior Rugby League as coach, administrator at both school and club level”. John Morgan or “Morgs” as he was
known was involved in our Association from 2001 serving in a number of positions on the committee. His service
number was 3/786010. He held the rank of Bombardier in service in 20 NST Battalion. His follow up training was
in the 2nd Field Regiment Royal Australian Artillery at Puckapunyal Victoria. Additional Service number is 352372.
Morgs loved a cold drink and always had a good story to tell. Both men will be sadly missed. We have another race
day coming up at Callaghan Park. Let’s hope some of us can have a better financial day than last time. Remembrance
Day stalls were operated and everything is in place for our Christmas break up. Our Association extends best wishes
to all Nashos for the Festive Season. Branch Contact: Secretary John Day – Ph 07 4928 0081 / 0439 090 738.
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