The Scheyvillian

Prepared on behalf of the OTU Association National Committee

OTU Association National Newsletter, No. 3, 2015

Officer Training Unit, Scheyville NSW 1965-1973 A newsletter for all Scheyvillians

SPIRIT OF ANZAC CENTENARY EXHIBITION

The Spirit of ANZAC Centenary Experience is currently travelling Australia. The exhibition opened in

Albury/Wodonga and has since visited Hobart, Launceston, Ballarat and Bendigo. In all, 23 capital and

regional cities will be visited by the exhibition.

Visit http://www.anzaccentenary.gov.au to find the dates for other cities.

Were you an ANZAC?

While we may not realise it, there were quite a number of ‘Scheyvillians’ (and other Nashos) who were

ANZACs. The original ANZACs were the men of the New Zealand & Australian Division that landed at

Gallipoli on 25th

April 1915. Australia’s 4th

Brigade and the New Zealand Infantry Brigade formed that

Division. Later in ‘The Great War’ there were two ANZAC Corps on the Western Front. World War Two

saw an ANZAC Corps formed in 1941, for a short time, in Greece. The ANZACs fought together again in

Korea when the Australian Infantry in the 27th

Commonwealth Brigade was supported by New Zealand

Artillery. The New Zealand Artillery again supported the Australian Infantry in Vietnam and was

essential support in the Battle of Long Tan. Some of the Australian battalions in Vietnam had New

Zealand Companies and had the word ANZAC in their title.

The most recent ANZAC Force was formed in 2006 as the ANZAC Battle Group in Timor Leste.

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NATIONAL COMMITTEE 2015/16:

National Chairman: Frank Miller 03 9561 3630 0401 140 762 millerfw@netspace.net.au

Deputy Chairman: Brian Cooper 03 9879 9485 0418 373 874 bjcooper@bigpond.net.au

Treasurer: Ray Elder 03 9533 1810 0412 354 170 rayelder45@gmail.com

Secretary: Bernie Gleeson 03 9850 1575 0427 601 983 berjulgleeson@bigpond.com

Webmaster & Quartermaster: Roger Nation 03 5241 3441 nation@ncable.net.au

Membership: Graeme Chester 03 5962 5839 0412 165 420 graeheath1@bigpond.com

Memorabilia & Scheyvillian

Neil Leckie 03 5333 1383 0400 573 802 nkaleckie@optusnet.com.au

Committee Members:

Robin Hunt 03 9827 8073 0429 827 807 rvmh@clearwood.net.au

Peter Don 03 9882 3786 0407 295 718 peterdon@bigpond.net.au

Rob Youl 03 8060 8672 0407 362 840 robmyoul@gmail.com

Alan Brimelow 03 9551 9453 0432 012 732 alanbrimelow@yahoo.com

Postal Address: OTU National Committee, 3/49 John Street, Lower Templestowe, VIC, 3107 WEBSITE: www.otu.asn.au

REQUEST FOR PHOTOGRAPHS AND MEMORABILIA: MORE NEEDED

After the 2013 National Reunion a request was put out through the Class Coordinators of those classes

where the association was lacking photographs and memorabilia. The response was fantastic! However!

We still require copies of the Graduation Parade Brochures for classes 4/70 and 3/71.

While the ‘Scheyville Collection’ of photographs continues to grow we still need photographs from

Classes 2/66 & 3/66, 3/67 & 4/67, 1/68 & 4/68, 4/69, 1/71 and all 1972. Apart from Graduation photographs, there are still no photographs of OCS Portsea 1 & 2/72 classes.

There is now a set of photographs for each class held at the RMC Museum (telephone the RMC Ops Branch for an

appointment). The aim is to have at least 40 photographs for each class. The above classes are well short of that

number. There must be photographs out there!

Scheyvillians are encouraged to look at the Website and see what is held and check if you have anything

that may compliment what is there. If you have photos, please send them either in ‘jpeg’ scan format or if

you do not have scanning capability send the hard copies ‘Registered Post’ to:

Neil Leckie at: Unit 3 / 519 Peel Street North, Black Hill, Vic, 3350.

THE SCHEYVILLIAN NEXT EDITION DUE OUT April 2016: It is planned to have Edition 1 of

2016 of The Scheyvillian in early April. Submissions need to be received by 15 March 2016. If you

have any contributions: current stories (eg. Reunions, dinners or other get-togethers) or memorabilia

stories, please email them to The Editor, The Scheyvillian, at nkaleckie@optusnet.com.au or post to Unit

3 / 519 Peel Street North, Black Hill, Vic, 3350. Photographs must be sent separate to the articles. If

you have large file size photos, please send individual photos to nkaleckie@hotmail.com or send a disc

with multiple photos. Photos should be in jpeg format and should preferably be labelled.

As seen in this and other recent issues, the Scheyvillian is about those who attended Scheyville in one

capacity or another. We all have stories to tell! Please keep the stories coming

and keep the standard of this publication high!

THE SCHEYVILLE EXPERIENCE – REPRINTS AVAILABLE For those who missed the launch of the ‘The Scheyville Experience’ some years

ago, the association has had some copies of the book reprinted. The reprint

includes an Errata/Addendum Sheet and updates figures and developments

from the time the book was first published (2001) to now.

The books can be purchased through the ‘Q Store’ on the OTU Website at $25 per

copy including postage. www.otu.asn.au

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NEW WEBSITE (Webmaster Roger Nation 3/68): WEBSITE TIPS & TRICKS

1. To stop the music when loading the home page, just click anywhere inside the graphics (or turn

the volume down before opening the Website!)

2. When a new Scheyvillian is published, everyone is notified via an e-mail, containing a link. If

you would also like to be advised by e-mail when an obituary, or news article is posted to the

website, follow these instructions:

i. Go to the home page;

ii. Click on any of the main menu items;

iii. In the right hand side panel, at the bottom, fill in your

e-mail address and subscribe.

3. Some members have had difficulty accessing certain past editions of The Scheyvillian in the

archive (found under “The Association” tab on the logged-in home page). In most cases this is due

to Chrome Web Browser being unable to read some older versions of .pdf files.

4. A work-around can be found at the very end of the Website 101 article:

Home page, scroll to the bottom under “News”.

5. The Forum. Found on the home page (logged-in),

main menu-bar.

This is an area where Scheyvillians can post thoughts, ideas

or questions that other Scheyvillians may be interested in, or answer.

For example: “Does anyone know the whereabouts of John Smith from class 2/68?”

or, memories on a recently deceased Scheyvillian,

or, “ anyone interested in a reunion in the Whitsundays?”

The Forum will only be useful, if you check the website occasionally. We have elected at present not to

include Facebook/Twitter/Instagram etc links, in the belief that at internal Scheyville focused forum is

more suitable to our needs. It will only be useful if you use it.

A Forum Entry: Warren Thatcher 2/65: Peter (Lauder) was in our junior class, and was the son of

Warren Spike Williams, who was a mate of mine. They lived just around the building from me. I became

acquainted with Peter soon after he arrived, through John Nicholson, another great mate. John and Peter

went to The Southport School and were both good Rugby players. Peter was impressive, and determined

to do well. I did see Peter at a Brisbane luncheon a few years ago, and was pleased to see that he was still

doing well, in I think insurance. He was certainly one of our best, MCs are hard to come by! A great loss

to the association and obviously his family and friends! My regards to all of them and all of you.

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MEMBERSHIP REPORT FY 2015/16 as at 30th

November 2015 Graeme Chester (2/67)

Number of Graduates 1880

Number on Database (Incl DNG/Staff) 1669

Number Financial 427 (The target membership is 500)

Widows 8

Number Honorary 25

Number Deceased 155

Number Un-financial (Not Renewed) 887

Number Un-financial (Do Not Contact) 167

Totals 1880 1669 460 1209

Percentages: Of the names on database: 27.6% are financial/honorary/widow.

9.3% are deceased.

53.1% are un-financial (not renewed).

10.0% are un-financial (do not contact).

At the end of Nov, our Membership Renewals are down on where we were at the same time last year.

There are 59 members who were financial last year who have not signed on for 15/16. If you wish to

renew for 15/16, a Membership Renewal form is attached to this newsletter or, should you wish, you

could renew using PayPal via our website. Renewal by 31 December 2015 would be appreciated.

If you are uncertain whether or not you are financial, you can check via the Website. Just enter the

Website and click on Membership Renewal on the Home Page.

Regarding the Website, did you know you can update your Profile Page in our database. Simply go into

Profile on the home page and update your information. Don’t forget to click on the ‘Update’ button

(bottom left of page) to ensure the database is changed.

Keeping our database updated and accurate will greatly assist classes when organising future reunions.

NATIONAL REUNION FOLLOW-UP John Dorian (2/70)

The following email was sent to the National Secretary following the June National Reunion: This is a belated thanks for the organisation and management of our 50

th

commemorations. It is belated not solely because I am slack but because I

wanted to add a little note of my own to the general accolades you and your team

have earned.

This was only my 3rd

ever OTU event and I have to say it was the best (for me)

ever. I came to an acceptance of my “call up” late into my Army career and so it

is probably natural that I’ve come to an acceptance of my Army and

OTU history “late” as well. As a non-military minded conscript I have honestly

never felt like I belonged in the Army let alone the association and, in fact, never

felt like I could be accepted by the many dedicated and conscientious people

who made up the vast majority of National Servicemen and OTU graduates I have met.

The wonderfully generous and gregarious people that I spent time with for these celebrations and dinner

were more than just accepting – they were positively welcoming and I was convinced that I should

consider myself a part of this marvelous team. Perhaps age has mellowed me or perhaps they were always

ready to be accepting and I was too biased to see it. Regardless I truly felt that I belonged and really

enjoyed the event in all of its aspects. So a very big and heart felt “thank you”.

Maurice ‘John’ Dorian was born on 28th

February 1949 in Melbourne and completed his Secondary

Education at Christian Brothers College in East Melbourne. He was a Trainee Industrial Chemist before

commencing his NS. John graduated into RAInf and was posted to 3 TB, Singleton.

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NATIONAL COUNCIL, 30th

May 2015

National Chairman’s Report 2014 -2015 Frank Miller (4/67) National Chairman The highlight of the National program over the year was, undoubtedly the commemoration of the 50

th

Anniversary of the commencement of the second National Service Scheme. This took place on 30th

June

in Canberra. Organised in conjunction with the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia, this

comprised a march to the Australian War Memorial, a ceremony of remembrance at the National Service

Memorial then a casual finger food luncheon at the Ainslie Football Club. Altogether around four

hundred National Servicemen marched. The Parade was led by Brig (Ret’d) David Webster (1/65) and the

salute taken by Maj Gen (Ret’d) Paul Irvine (2/72). John Blacket, the first of the Second Scheme to serve

overseas, carried the Australian Flag.

At the following commemorative service speeches were given by Dr Brendan Nelson, Chief Executive of

the AWM, the Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove, Chairman of the OTU Association, Frank Miller

(4/67), former Deputy Prime Minister, Tim Fischer (3/66) and Chairman of the NSAA, Maj. (Ret’d) Earle

Jennings. The following luncheon at the Football Club went very well with old friends catching up and

enjoying a good chat.

In the afternoon members of the OTU Association visited to RMC Duntroon to see the substantial volume

of OTU memorabilia on prominent display. From there they inspect the Cadets’ Mess, where the OTU

Honour Boards are displayed and other areas of interest.

In the evening over one hundred and twenty Scheyvillians, partners and friends attended a mixed dinner

at the Canberra Golf Club. Tim Fischer gave an interesting and entertaining formal address. Other guests

included Maj Earle Jennings and Mr Noel Moulder of the NSAA. It was a fine evening and we were

grateful to Wal Hall and the ACT Chapter, Brian Cooper, Bernie Gleeson and Ray Elder for their work in

putting it together.

The commemoration of the 50th

anniversary was considered a huge success by the Association.

On 30th

May the annual National Council meeting

was held at the Toorak Services Club. Once more

this proved a most valuable forum whereby the

State/Territory Chapters and the National

Committee can appraise each other of their current

situations and plans for the future.

Left: Doug Oliver (4/71 – Qld), Rob Youl (2/65 -

Nat), Peter Don (3/69 - Nat), Dennis Townsend

(2/70 - Tas), Gary Vial (3/69 - SA), Dick Adams

(3/72 – NSW) & Frank LeFaucheur (1/71 - WA).

On top of the Canberra commemoration activities the Association has run on a “steady as she goes” basis

over the last twelve months. State/Territory Chapters have been pursuing the objectives as laid down in

paragraph 5 of the constitution:

* Fostering of fellowship between members

* Maintenance and preservation of interest in OTU within the civilian and military communities

* Preservation of the memory of those members who have suffered, died or been injured in the

course of their duty for Australia

* Promotion of youth leadership and development in Australia

I believe we have been successful in all of these categories.

The last year was special with the one hundredth anniversary of Australian soldiers departing for, and

fighting in, the First World War. Whilst we had no National commemorative event, the significance of the

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centenary was appropriately acknowledged. A group of thirty Scheyvillians marched under the OTU

banner at Albany, WA in a large parade to mark the fleet sailing off to Gallipoli. Again, we had

contingents in the ANZAC Day marches in several capital cities.

Our affiliation with the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia remains firm. I have attended

their two National Council meetings in the ACT and Devonport over the twelve months. The OTU

Association, being an affiliate, is a member of this Council.

Our youth Leadership initiative continued with a number of excellent projects being given financial

assistance by state and territory chapters and with ongoing support for the Lord and Lady Somers Camps

in Victoria. It is interesting to note that this January we funded a number of young people who were

returning to the Camps as helpers as well as the usual “Groupers”. This will certainly prove a sound

investment in the future.

We are once more deeply indebted to Neil Leckie for his work as Scheyvillian Editor and Memorabilia

Officer. The latter is ensuring the OTU “silverware” is stored for safe keeping. This includes honour

boards, photographs, the Governor-General’s Banner and graduate/class documentation. Neil has again

delivered three excellent editions of “The Scheyvillian”. They have all been first class and made for

fascinating reading. Many thanks go to Neil.

One of the interesting features of the Association over the past few years has been the fact that the

membership has remained virtually constant. New-comers seem to balance the departures from our list

each twelve months. My thanks go to membership manager Graeme Chester for his diligent work in this

role.

The Association Executive meets around nine times each year – depending on the activities scheduled.

This ensures the smooth working of the organisation. Pivotal to these meetings is the work of the

Secretary Bernie Gleeson. Thanks for your fine input Bernie.

Webmaster Roger Nation has undertaken a major upgrade of our Website over the year. This has made it

more user friendly and effective. Roger has also taken on the role of QM. Thanks Roger for a job well

done.

Much attention has been paid to the longer term future by the Association Executive. It would be

pointless for there to be a large sum of money left in the bank come the time there aren’t sufficient

members to make the organisation viable. Accordingly, Treasure Ray Elder has produced a financial

projection over the next ten years that enables for us to plan our expenditure over that time. It allows for

the national body to contribute directly to the Territory/States’ social and other activities that are in

keeping with the four objectives as previously laid down. I am grateful indeed for the fine job Ray has

done as Treasurer.

My sincere thanks also go to Deputy Chairman, Robin Hunt and committee members Peter Don, Brian

Cooper, Alan Brimelow and Rob Youl, Your help and input is very much appreciated.

National Service Debate Reignited

On Saturday 30 May 2015 MHHV (Military History & Heritage

Victoria) held a conference ‘Conscription and National Service’, the

same day as the OTU National Council Meeting. One of the Guest

Speakers was our own Tim Fischer AC, Author, Former Federal

Nationals Leader, Former Deputy PM, and Ex Ambassador to the

Holy See. Tim’s speech follows:

Reflections on Conscription in Australia: It should never be

selective National Service ever again: Either all in or none in!

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Tim started with: ‘Fifty years ago National Service selective balloting commenced in Australia to pick out

a cohort of young men turning twenty and send them into the Army for two years. One hundred years ago

Conscription referenda were considered in Australia, fiercely debated and ultimately defeated at the

height of World War One.

It is never an easy issue for vibrant democracies to handle, with the compulsion element clashing with the

spirit of freedom dimensions of democracy, plus the always difficult to define and administer aspect of

“Conscientious Objection” overarching all, in times of war.

In a democracy, it for the Executive to propose Conscription or National Service, the Parliament or

Congress to consider and pass into law the requirements involved, sometimes involving the people by

way of referendum. It is then implemented with lashings of anti-democratic compulsion – all in defence

of the nation state same said democracy.

As you would expect, this is as never easy and a close reading of history affirms this in exactitude. It all

goes back to the Commonwealth Defence Act of 1903 that did provide for compulsory “Home Defence

Service” but not overseas service.’

Tim Concluded with: ‘It seems the National Service Ballot was not formally stacked but may have been

stacked on the margins as - in short - not all were taken that had registered for a particular birth date

drawn out in the twice yearly ballot.

I reiterate and emphasize not all registrants whose birth dates were drawn were called up in the twice

yearly ballots (even allowing for health and other declared non call up or exempt categories), so it appears

some person within the system played God big time.

Further, note 1 Jan to 30 Jun 1946 births, the month of May saw 13 days drawn out including mine but

only 4 for albeit the short month of Feb, still this is almost beyond random possibilities.’

The dates drawn are available on the AWM Website and have been published in The Scheyvillian. To

counter Tim’s comments a quick scan shows that the days drawn must have indeed been random as in one

month (October 1968) only three days were drawn, while in another month (June 1971) thirteen days

were drawn! Looks similar to the random numbers drawn in Lotto. (Ed.)

There have been many emails flying about, especially from the West, about the issues that Australia

faces, such as our loss of identity, and the world faces at the present (too much to publish in this venue).

Most of the emails support the re-introduction of National Service, whether it be military service or some

form of civilian service. It will be a matter of which political party has the will and sees the need for it.

(Ed.)

Dr Peter Edwards who compiled the 1997 Sixth Volume of the Official

History of Australia’s involvement in SE Asia A Nation at War gave a talk

at the Shrine of Remembrance on 3 September. Afterwards he spoke with

Robin Hunt (3/69) who asked for more statistical information on volunteers

for the National Service Scheme of 1965-72. The figures Edwards quoted

came from press statements made by the Minister for Labour and National

Service, Phillip Lynch, in 1971 and 1972. These were in Cabinet Files. See

the Official History volume, A Nation at War pp. 311-12 and footnotes 59

and 60 on p. 426. Edwards stated the he didn’t know of any location where

these figures were collated for the entire period. In that volume there is a

substantial appendix on the whole scheme, written by Sue Langford, which

includes all the birthdates drawn in the ballot.

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Edwards also said that in addition to the appendix in A Nation at War, you might also like to see Mark

Dapin’s recent book, The Nashos’ War. Dapin demolishes a number of myths and also points out reasons

for the predominance of certain skills and backgrounds at different times.

Class Reunion: 2/69 David Jervis (2/69)

“Looking for serenity in this mad world? Stewarts Bay in south eastern Tasmania is your place. But why

would 2/69 hold a reunion there? Because Lawson and Vivien Ride have a holiday house and B & B in

the area and kindly volunteered to host this year’s reunion. Although a rather isolated place (about one

and a half hours drive from Hobart airport) a record 40 people attended the event from Friday 25th

to

Sunday 27th

September. We stayed at Stewarts Bay Lodge in large self-contained timber cabins set in

bushland overlooking a tranquil bay and all within two minutes’ walk to Gabriels restaurant and bar. The

beautiful Port Arthur historical site is only a thirty minute walk away.

After a light workout at Gabriels on Thursday night for the early arrivals most of us were in relatively

good shape for Friday’s luncheon. The ladies took the opportunity for some respite and wisely held their

own lunch at the nearby Lavender Bay farm. For the men the ominously sounding “whisky tasting and

lunch” was at Gabriels. The whisky tasting [and talk by a representative of Tasmania’s William

McHenry and Sons distillery] combined with other liquors accelerated the loss of inhibitions. This lively

show ended at 6.15 pm just in time for that night’s “formal dinner” at Gabriels [the poor staff!].

At dinner Ross Robbins received the “Order of Knight Commander Pinko Green” award from John Lowis

for his services to the often strange world of 2/69 social media. The award was a small, toy, fluffy sheep

which Ross cryptically named “Piggy”. It soon became apparent that he was becoming disturbingly

attached to this creature so it was “sheep napped” and has been sent on a long journey. Currently,

opinions are divided on whether a reconciliation is possible.

Kevin Richardson (a doyen of the timber industry) presented each of us with a pen in a handmade

wooden case inscribed “OTU Scheyville Class 2/69 3rd

October 1969”. The cases were made from

different timbers such as “hairy oak” and “yellow stringy bark”. While the ladies’ pens were elegant the

men’s pens were unique with copper nibs in the style of a bullet and the nib retractors an old style rifle

bolt. Everyone was touched by Kevin’s generous gesture.

Saturday morning was the Tasman Island cruise. Cruise? It was only after we were strapped into our seats

on a high powered 44 foot Naiad boat in full length wet weather coats munching Blackmore’s anti

seasickness ginger tablets that we were told that this was an “Adventure” trip. We then spent 3 hours

dashing up and down the Tasman Peninsula in the open sea observing spectacular Jurassic dolerite sea

cliffs, caves, waterfalls, seals, dolphins, a sea bird feeding frenzy and Tasman Island [a small, windswept

place, now uninhabited but with five houses and a working lighthouse it is the turning point for the

Sydney to Hobart yacht race]. A truly world class experience!

At dinner at Gabriels that night treasurer Mick Hart announced that after less than two days our $3,000.00

alcohol fund had run out and a call was necessary [despite a few grumbles the men were secretly proud].

Sunday lunch was at a nearby farm owned by Martin Beck [Vivien Ride’s brother]. This property is a

rural idyll with magnificent scenery and lots of lovely old buildings. After drinks and canapés on the

manicured lawns we were seated at a very long table in a 100 year old restored barn. We had not expected

the spectacular four course meal that followed. Fresh Tasmanian produce included oysters, prawns,

scallops, quails, fish, lamb and pork. All the catering, table and bar service was done by Vivien, her

family and friends. A five star restaurant could not have done it better. We provided the “entertainment”.

Tenor Doug Harrington sang “I Still Call Australia Home” and “We’re a Pack of Bastards’ while Paul

Flanagan’s limericks about reunion highlights were, as usual, brilliant. We also got through six lines of

the OTU song before memories failed.

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We left at about 6.00 pm and returned to Gabriels for pizzas. Legendry bar closers Terry Keogh, Ross

Robbins and Lyn Williams left Gabriels after midnight formally ending a highly enjoyable and

memorable reunion.

Lawson Ride [who has Parkinson’s disease] attended every function in a wheel chair, always with a

beaming smile. Vivien handled her massive work load with tireless enthusiasm and charm. An inspiring

couple! Our thanks to them and all their helpers including Mick Hart and his secretary Steph [Mick’s

fingerprints were all over the fiendishly demanding program].

Apart from those already mentioned the

attendees were - Trish Hart, Rob and Jan

Wilson, Jocelyn Keogh, Di and Gemma

Coats, Lotte Monotti, Kath Richardson,

Jane Robbins, Grahame and Kay

Charge, Gordon and Ingrid Campbell,

Roger and Jenny Baird, Jenny

Harrington, Bill and Jenny Watson,

Birute and Peter Don, Judy Flanagan,

Peter and Cher Wotton, Sue Ward and

Allan Peterson, Denise Hogan, James

and Julie Morris, Sophie and David

Jervis.

After 14 of these annual 2/69 reunions we can only hope there are many more.”

STATE ACTIVITIES:

ACT CHAPTER

Due to a clash at the Golf Club, the ACT the ACT Chapter Christmas Lunch has been brought forward a

day to Thursday 17th

December. Meet at the Royal Canberra Golf Club at noon for a 12.30 pm lunch.

Payment of $75 per head is to be made to the ACT Chapter at Defence Bank BSB 803 205, Account

20532 393 using your name as the reference. Advise Clive Badelow when payment is made.

Wal Hall will send invitations to our Scheyville widows to join us as our non-paying guests.

RSVP to Wal by Wednesday 9th

December, including advice re dietary requirements.

Wal Hall (2/68) 0418 659 010

NSW CHAPTER John Bushell (4/69) & Neil Leckie (3/68)

Throughout 2015 Chapter members continued to support our regular monthly lunch at the Athenian

Greek Restaurant. Mick Hart (2/69) from the Qld Chapter, when working in town has been a familiar

face, Phil Paddison (2/70) makes a

regular commute from the Hunter,

Gary McKay MC (2/68) from the

South Coast, and Dick Adams (3/72)

from the Blue Mountains. All make a

much appreciated effort to travel

regularly, as do a good number of

other Sydney based stalwarts.

The photo at left is from the NSW

September lunch is at the Athenian.

L-R: Jim French (1/65), David

Longhurst (1/67), Geoff Bennett

(2/66).

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At right: L-R: Phil Deare (4/71), Stu Jones (2/70),

Kevin Dixon (4/69)

This year, a Christmas lunch was held at the

Kirribilli Club on Wednesday 2nd

December. The

venue offered 1st class Sydney Harbour views.

Around 50 attended and again enjoyed a most

convivial day out. Through the initiative of Tony

Larnach-Jones (DS from1965), an invitation was

made by Dick Adams (3/72) to Tim Fischer (3/66)

to attend the lunch. Tony had a special

presentation he wanted to make to Tim during the

event. It is unfortunate that after accepting, events

beyond his control, forced Tim to withdraw. But

everything has an upside! Neil Leckie (3/68), a member of the Victorian Chapter and Scheyvillian Editor,

attended as a representative of the OTU National Association.

Left: The Christmas Lunch at the Kirribili

Club.

A final note from the NSW Chapter: Many

know Tony Sonneveld (1/70), and the

enormous amount work he has contributed to

our Association over the years. After battling

prostate cancer for some 12 years, Tony is

really doing it tough at the moment. Our

thoughts and best wishes are with him, wife

Viv, and their family during these testing times. Booka

QUEENSLAND CHAPTER Don Keyes (4/69)

Apart from the ANZAC Day March, the Queensland Chapter gets together regularly throughout the year

in two ways. One is the Annual Black Tie Dinner at the United Service Club, generally held in late

March. This is more or less a Mixed Dining-In Night, but conducted in a more modern setting, that is, if

the lovely old colonial charm of the United Service Club could ever be described as modern.

The other regular get together is the monthly lunch - THURSDAYS AT FRIDAYS … or more

accurately, The Second Thursday of Every Month at Friday’s Waterline Restaurant.

The lunch has a long tradition. For over twenty years Friday’s has been, with rare exceptions, the

consistent venue for the lunch. This consistency of venue and time is beneficial for local members but

also means that Scheyvillians located interstate and even overseas can call in without prior notice and join

the party. Over the years we have had many visitors. They have always been welcomed and have enjoyed

the beautiful surroundings, the excellent food and, of course, that old Scheyville camaraderie. The venue

is one of Brisbane’s best, a superb riverside location with terrific views of the Story Bridge, passing

yachts and City Cat ferries.

The food is excellent. Friday’s now have the services of Paul Pledge, a top chef who is regarded as

outstanding by his customers, his staff and management. Paul used to work with Geoff Daly (4/69) at the

United Service Club. Steve Hicks, the manager who has looked after the OTU crowd through the years,

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believes him to be at the same standard as celebrity chef Matt Moran, which is quite a compliment. Meals

for us are nevertheless reasonably priced at $39.50 for a two course meal from a specially prepared menu

of three entrees and three main courses.

Except for the Christmas lunch advance notice is not necessary but is always appreciated. The next lunch

is at 12:45pm 10th December at Friday's Restaurant, Riverside, 123 Eagle Street, Brisbane. If you wish

to join us RSVP to Stephanie at 07 3230 5222 or at smauchlan@clearyhoare.com.au .

On a more sombre note we have had the passing of two of our popular members, Peter Lauder MC (2/66)

and Leon Rowe (4/71). Peter was farewelled at a very well attended funeral in St Augustine’s Anglican

Church in Hamilton (covered by Channel 10 News) and a fitting wake at the Royal Queensland Golf

Club. He was also toasted and farewelled at our November lunch. Leon passed away more recently and

his funeral was held at St Paul's Anglican Church, Ipswich on 3rd

December.

Both Peter (2/66)

(Left) and Leon

(4/71) (far right) can

be seen in these

photographs. Leon

from an earlier

Christmas lunch and

Peter from a Black

Tie Dinner.

SA CHAPTER Gary Vial (3/69)

Our Annual Remembrance Day lunch was held at one of Adelaide’s marquee restaurants - 2KW - under

the command of Trevor Ranford (2/72) on Sunday 8th

November. Once again prior commitments took

their toll with just eight attendees - Geoff Houghton (3/71), Trevor Ranford, Ash and Craig Steel (1/70),

Jo and RobWicks (2/70) and Deidre and Barry Wilmot (1/67). Libby and Gary Vial (3/69) were last

minute nosho’s with the man [and girl] flu!

We have asked the ANZAC Day March Committee for a place in the 2016 March, but despite two

follow-ups we are yet to hear if we are ‘in’ or not. We will keep local members informed on progress.

If we get a place in the ANZAC Day March, afterwards there will be a light lunch and drinks at The

Exeter at 246 Rundle Street.

Our next event will be the Foundation Day lunch to be held on Sunday 3rd

April 2016 at a venue to be

advised. And then the final event for the year will be the Remembrance Day lunch held on Friday 11th

November 2016 - venue to be advised.

To all Scheyvillians and their families - Best Wishes for Christmas and 2016.

TASMANIAN CHAPTER (Ray Williams 2/71)

The August lunch for the Tasmanians was held on 21st August in Hobart. The final Tasmanian quarterly

lunch for 2015 was held at Launceston’s premier winery/restaurant, Josef Chromy’s, Relbia, 10 km south

of Launceston, on 20th

November. The restaurant has marvelous views out over the winery. The fare and

wines were excellent and the company quite entertaining. The next luncheon will be in the South,

probably late January 2016, and will be advised to Chapter Members.

12

Shown at left are: David Taylor

(4/66), Anne Townsend, Jean

Howard, James Reade (1/71),

Dennis Townsend (2/70), Ray

Williams (2/71), Ian Howard

(1/69) , Ross Robbins (2/69),

Jane Robbins and Annie Taylor.

VICTORIAN CHAPTER

Tenth Annual Geddes Dinner Frank Miller (4/67)

On Thursday 13th August the Tenth Annual Geddes Dinner was held at the Toorak Services (Heroes)

Club. Over sixty Scheyvillians, guests and friends attended. It is interesting to note that the proportion of

the latter two categories has grown over the years and now comprises around one third of attendees.

Our special invitee for the evening was Dougal Geddes, from NSW, son of the first Commandant of

OTU, Brigadier Ian Geddes, and after whom the Dinner was named. Dougal gave a speech detailing how

proud his father had been of Scheyville and all the contribution OTU had made to the Australian Army.

Two DS were present – David Millie (Apr 65 – Apr 66) and Malcolm Kennedy (May 67 – Jan 69). As

well as these two, other first timers included John Sierakowski (1/69) from South Australia, Pat Gurrie

(1/65), Tony Trevethick (1/65) and Robert Faulkner (1/66).

From interstate we had Keith Hopkins NSW (2/67) and John Barnes WA (2/67). Five Heroes Club

members also attended.

Historian, Dr. Ross McMullin, was guest speaker. Dr. McMullin is a renowned biographer with several

highly acclaimed books to his credit. He spoke on one of these, ‘Pompey Elliott’.

Brigadier General Pompey Elliott was one of Australia’s best known Commanders in the First World

War. He was charismatic, controversial and highly successful. His tempestuous character generated a host

of Pompey anecdotes that amused his men and disconcerted his superiors. It was an excellent talk that

fascinated all present. It also gave a deep insight into fine military leadership and the impact this has in

battle.

For the first time the OTU song was sung to a

musical accompaniment – from the graduation

parade clip shown on the website. At the close of

proceedings people stayed on for the odd red or

two and fine fellowship. It was an excellent

evening and we look forward to next year’s with

eager anticipation.

Our sincere thanks and congratulations go to Ray

Elder (2/67) for organising this, the Tenth Geddes

Dinner and for its other nine predecessors. We are

grateful indeed. Thanks also go to Peter Hateley

(2/71) (nametags), Ian Kelly (2/67) (audio visual)

and Peter Don (3/69) (photography).

13

Annual Golf Day Frank Miller (4/67)

Twenty one Scheyvillians, family members and friends gathered at Melbourne’s Waverley Golf Club on

26th

October for the annual Victorian Chapter Golf Day. This was a special occasion being the tenth held

since the inaugural 2005 get together. (One had been cancelled due to bad weather on the day before

making Melbourne’s courses unplayable).

After the traditional sandwich lunch the players headed to the tee. Again the ‘Ambrose’ system was used

for scoring. A moderately strong and warmish Northerly wind added to the skills required of each player.

The course was in great condition and not a drop of rain was recorded.

At the completion all golfers retired to the club house for

fellowship and prize giving. As has become the custom,

everyone had a choice of the fabulous gifts made available

through our generous donors.

The winners (left) were Team Delta – Tony Trevethick (1/65),

Mike Delves (1/65) and John Parker (1/70). It was fantastic to

see those of the first Scheyville Class do so well!

Ron Pels, brother of Gerry Pels (4/71), won the nearest to the

pin on the third hole and Brian McCarthy (3/69) did likewise

on the fifth. Alasdair Coates, son of Chris Coates (3/71), had

the longest drive on the fifteenth hole.

Once again a good time was had by all. We look forward to

next year’s contest with eager anticipation.

Monthly Lunches

The monthly lunches are still being held at the RACV Club, 501 Bourke St, at 12.30 pm on the second

Wednesday of the month. The lunches attract 10 – 15 Scheyvillians with the basis being Class 3/69.

Smart casual, positive thoughts and good jokes essential. Brian Cooper (3/69) remains the contact. Please

advise Brian at least 2 days before the lunch of your attendance. 0418 373 874 or bjcooper@bigpond.net.au

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Lunches: David Ward (2/66)

Since our ANZAC march & subsequent lunch the attendance has averaged about 30 with a blip for

August of 20. Frank will report separately on the November lunch. The enthusiastic luncheons have

generated great fellowship amongst the gathering, which is infectious. As some are now aged 70, I

suspect we will continue for the next 10 years, at least. All the best and we greatly appreciate the National

Committee’s contribution in maintaining our connection to that amazing journey we experienced, so long

ago. Cheers.

November Lunch: Frank LeFaucheur (1/71)

The Restaurant was, as usual, ‘The Romany’ in Northbridge, Perth. There were quite a few last minute

withdrawals (health and travel issues, mostly) but 25 OTU Graduates were present. The lunch was 1 week

later than usual to accommodate the 1/65ers who are celebrating 50 years since graduation!

1/65er John O'Halloran did his best to make a speech but much of the content was difficult to hear (due to

the "ambience" of the Restaurant!!!). He finally did sit down, due to the outbreak of general acclamation,

led by Dave Ward (2/66)!

The support for our quarterly lunches is growing, as the guys get older and "more in control of their time"

(although grand-children loom as a big factor for most!) The February Quarterly arrangement of a long-

weekend in Busselton, with partners, has become a "permanent fixture" in our calendar and is a great

opportunity for further camaraderie and meeting and greeting with partners.

14

We all look forward to an excellent

festive season and further opportunities

in the New Year, while being conscious

of "world events" that have terrible

implications for all. Cheers

Left: David Eyres (3/67), Ken Waller

(2/72), David Harley (2/70), Rod

Hatcher, Bernie Houston and John

O'Halloran (all 1/65), Steve McDonald

(2/70), Ben Blake (4/70) and Frank

LeFaucheur (1/71) at the Romany

Restaurant.

2nd

Annual Busselton Weekend Friday 5th

– Sunday 7th

February 2016 now our annual event!

Broad format is a lunch for the guys at 1pm on the Friday, while the partners also have their own lunch –

venues for both to be advised by the local organising Committee, Ken Waller (2/72), David Eyres (3/67)

and Jay McDaniel (3/69). That evening a casual BBQ/meal at the Busselton Yacht Club with the sunset

views to die for! Further details to be ‘announced’ by the local committee but it will include the now

traditional twilight sail into the setting sun on Major Tom (Ken’s yacht) followed by a sumptuous repast

on the Saturday. (Undoubtedly we will again be regaled with tales/anecdotes/jokes etc, ‘led by’ Barry

Cooke (3/71)!!)

Sunday will include a breakfast at a local venue and further activities “to be announced” !.

Please note : If any wish to come for lunch on the Friday, then that is totally acceptable.

Organising committee will confirm all details and planning but can you

all please help them out by indicating your intended participation in the

weekend or otherwise and planned accommodation intentions, via

Frank LeFaucheur.

The Other Frank – an email to Frank LeFaucher

Frank, for the record please ‘warn me out’(for Bussellton). With luck,

I'll make one of the lunches in 2016. November the 11th is celebrated

as Veteran's Day here in the USA, and as it approaches, I was thinking

of times past and the Perth ANZAC Day march earlier this year. I

remember that there was some concern over my lack of a jacket,

inappropriate head gear, etc and there was also some discussion over

who has one of the original "slim Jim" OTU ties. So, to put the record

straight, I'm attaching a photo. You'll notice - the jacket, appropriate

head gear, spit polished RM's and an original 1966 vintage OTU tie.

Sorry to be under arms with an SMLE; but here in the Socialist

Republic of California, SLR's (FAL's) are discouraged. Enjoy the lunch

on Friday. Cheers. The other Frank. (Shellabear, 2/66)

VALE:

At the NSW Christmas Lunch it was announced that the association had lost two members in the last

couple of days: John Bell (3/68) and John Robinson (3/72). Obituaries will be in the next issue.

15

Vale: Peter John Lauder MC (2/66)

1731459 Peter John Lauder was born on 11th

March 1945 and brought up in Tully in North Queensland.

He was called up for National Service and commenced his Officer Training at OTU in early May 1966.

He graduated as a 2Lt into RAInf Corps from OTU Scheyville with Class 2/66 on 30 September 1966,

Graduate Number 207. He was posted to 8 RAR. Peter transferred into the Australian Staff Corps on 30

June 1967. Peter and Jill married in 1967 and would later have three children and nine grandchildren.

8 RAR had been formed at Enoggera Barracks in Brisbane on 14 July 1966 as part of the expansion of the

Army during Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War. On 8 August 1966 it had a strength of 370

men, including 150 experienced soldiers who had been posted from 1 RAR. The battalion was expanded

in the next month with both regular soldiers and Nashos and began training for overseas service. In

January 1967 it was warned that it would relieve 4 RAR in Malaysia, and this movement gradually took

place from 24 August to 6 November. While in Malaysia the battalion formed part of the 28th

Independent Commonwealth Infantry Brigade, which also included New Zealand Army and British

Army units.

8 RAR returned to Enoggera in April 1969 and began intensive training ahead of being deployed to

Vietnam. The battalion arrived in South Vietnam on 17 November 1969 and replaced 9 RAR six days

later. Like the other Australian Army units then in Vietnam, the battalion formed part of the 1st Australian

Task Force and was based in Phuoc Tuy Province. In February 1970, 8 RAR was just two months into its

tour. 9 Pl's head count was down to 24. It was before any of the National Service intakes rotated, and the

‘Diggers’ had essentially been together since the battalion's deployment for a tour of Malaysia a year

earlier.

Headed up by a strict but talented Nasho Platoon Commander, 2nd

Lt Peter Lauder, and led by a mixture

of both Nasho and Regular NCOs, 9 Pl was far from your classic late war 1 ATF grunt minor unit.

It may have been 1970, but there were no signs of social revolution in the platoon. The laid back field

fashions of the period - scrim bandannas, tiger cams, AK-47 toting - let alone the first-name-terms-with-

the-boss relationships between the command structure and the men were ‘not on’ in 9 Pl. The OC

demanded and received total discipline from the troops. It was cam cream and ‘giggle’ hats on, shirts

tucked in and buttoned up, attention to detail from the bottom of each Digger's GP boots to his blackened

face.

While a stickler for uniformity in field dress, the boss was into ambushing. If given a choice he liked to

hit Charlie hard on the ground he chose, not blunder around the bush looking for bunkers to fight on

ground of Charlie's choosing.

By February the battalion was a veteran of two major operations - Op Atherton along the Long

Kahn/Phuoc Tuy province borders, and Op Keperra in the Nui Dinh hills. They were based at Fire

Support Base Isa, along the fringes of the Long Hai's Hills. The base’s role was providing an area from

which a team of Engineers from 17 Construction Squadron could work an old quarry in the mine laden hills. FSB

Isa had been gunned up with a section of 81mm mortars, a trio of Centurion tanks and a troop of M113A1

armoured personnel carriers. C Company provided the on-the-ground security. However, the routine security

operation they were undertaking was about to become a battalion-sized assault on a hidden VC

headquarters complex and the worst disaster of their Vietnam experience.

On February 15, the understrength 9 Pl, C Company, 8 RAR left the relative safety of FSB Isa to conduct

an area ambush. The ambush was initiated mid-way between moving from the day ambush position to the

night position. It hit the HQ of a NVA column. The rest of the column used their counter-ambush drills

well, but 9 Pl was located on a hill known as ‘Tit Hill’ (after the battle it was renamed ‘Lauder Hill’)

giving the platoon good observation of the attackers. The battle lasted five hours. Miraculously, none of

the Aussies was seriously injured. Five Diggers from 9 Platoon were slightly wounded as was one of the

sappers from the Splinter Team who had spent the night fighting like infantrymen.

16

8 Pl mounted on the backs of Centurions were reacted to relieve 9 Pl. After dropping off 8 Pl, the tanks

swept through the ambush killing ground with their search lights on, firing splintex to clear any VC or

NVA stupid enough to stay around.

Peter was promoted to Lieutenant on 20 June 1970. For his actions he was awarded a Military Cross,

listed in the Government Gazette on 17th

December 1970.

The battalion’s first tour of Vietnam ended in October 1970, by which

time it had lost 18 men killed in action and suffered 108 wounded. As

part of the reduction of the Australian force in Vietnam 8 RAR was not

replaced by another battalion when it returned to Enoggera.

After Vietnam, on 4th

April 1972, Peter was posted to the Regimental

Supernumerary List (RSL) in Northern Command and discharged with

the rank of Captain.

Post-Army Peter became an insurance agent and superannuation

consultant in 1972, and built a long and successful career offering clients

specialist risk advice. Commencing with National Mutual, Peter went on

to become a top performer qualifying for the 'Top 20' AXA Agents

worldwide on numerous occasions. In 1982, Peter co-founded

Templetons and served as Director and Authorised Representative there

until 2010. During his time at Templetons, Peter helped build the

business on a firm foundation of integrity, honesty, and putting client

interests ahead of all other considerations.

In his last years Peter enjoyed his role as consultant with Lauder Financial Solutions, drawing on his

extensive industry knowledge to provide LFS with training, management advice and counsel, helping to

steer the development of a first class professional practice.

Peter passed away on the 21st October 2015 as a result of cancer. His funeral was held in St Augustine’s

Church on in Hamilton, Queensland on 30th

October 2015. The bearer party was provided by the Lauder

family. The funeral was followed by a cremation with the wake being held at the Royal Queensland Golf

Club.

Death of a Scheyvillian – 2Lt Leonard Alexander Taylor, Class 1/66

3787987 Leonard Taylor was born on 16th

August 1945 and was a

trainee sales representative from Sydney. He was called up with the first

intake in 1966 commencing Recruit Training on 2nd

February. 16 days

later he commenced his Officer Training at OTU. He graduated on 22nd

July 1966 as Graduate 189 and was posted to 3 RAR. Len was due for

discharge at the end of his 2 years on 1st February 1968, however, 3

RAR commenced its ‘Tour’ of Vietnam on 12th

December and Len

signed on for twelve months for the ‘Tour’. Len died from gunshot

wounds on 8th

February 1968 at Long Dien. He is buried in the Box Hill

Cemetery in Melbourne. 3 RAR’s ‘Tour’ ended on 5th

December 1968.

The following information came via 3791271 Brian McKenzie, a Nasho

who continued serving after his NS and retired as a Major in the Army

Reserve’s 2 RVR, having served as a Company Commander at the

Shepparton barracks. Brian’s ‘Tour’ with 3 RAR was from 20th

December 1967 to 28th

November 1968. For some time Brian was the President of the Vietnam Veterans

Association of Australia.

17

The following records tell of the battle.

CONTACT AFTER ACTION REPORT NO. 1 PART 1, PL SGT 5 PL, B COY, 5 RAR

Operation: LONG DIEN, Sub-sector 8 Feb 68

Strength of Pl in contact – 1 Offr, 24 ORs

Date/Duration: 081830H – 1920H Feb 68

Location: YS 434587

Pl Task: To secure the LEFT flank at YS 433587 while 4 Pl searched in the area YS 431589 with two

sections up. Approximately 40 metres to the front a figure dressed in greens was seen to run across the

road from RIGHT to LEFT. All sections were informed and the platoon commander (Len Taylor) ran

forward with his signaler (Nasho Geoff Mathews). Both forward sections were then engaged by heavy

automatic fire from the front. This fire was immediately returned and voices were then heard calling ‘UC

DA LOI, Don’t shoot, Don’t shoot, ARVN.’ The platoon stopped momentarily and the platoon

commander stood up and was shot through the leg. At the same time 15 VC moved across the road from

LEFT to RIGHT and deployed in front of the RIGHT forward section. This group of enemy was engaged.

The rear section had deployed facing outwards on the LEFT flank and further VC were heard close to

their location. The platoon was now under fire from front and two flanks. The RIGHT forward section

commander advised the platoon commander that two of his section were wounded and was ordered to

pull back. The LEFT forward section were then ordered to pull back and in doing so received three

casualties. At this time the platoon commander was killed and his signaller seriously shot through the

head. Both the LEFT forward section and the rear section pulled back and deployed in rear of a large

house. The RIGHT forward sections withdrew and met up with 6 platoon who had closed up in rear. The

wounded were then treated and shortly afterwards the Company Commander and 4 Pl arrived.

The RIGHT forward section commander advised the platoon commander that two of his section were

wounded and was ordered to pull back. The LEFT forward section were then ordered to pull back and in

doing so received three casualties. At this time the platoon commander was killed and his signaller

seriously shot through the head. Both the LEFT forward section and the rear section pulled back and

deployed in rear of a large house. The RIGHT forward sections withdrew and met up with 6 pl who had

closed up in rear. The wounded were then treated and shortly afterwards the Company Commander and 4

Pl arrived.

Note: According to the DVA Website Mathews died the following day.

Others with a ‘Scheyville Experience’ who have passed on

Alistair Pope (4/66) has passed on some details on others with the

‘Scheyville Experience’ that are no longer with us.

Phillip Vernon Dawe (right) was born 2nd

December 1939 and

joined the ASC on 9th

December 1960 with RAASC. Between

1962 and 1964 he had two postings to the Australian National

Antarctic Research Expedition (ANARE). On 9th

November 1966

he was posted to Scheyville as an Instructor and then on

19th

June 1967 became the Adjutant until he was posted to HQ 1

ATF in Vietnam on 17th

January 1968. His ‘Tour’ ended on 19th

December 1968. Phillip passed away on 1st February 2005.

Those who served with the ARA might remember some of the Ex-Army members at Phillip’s funeral

service including David Childs, Dick Jacobs, Ron Sherman, Dick Filewood, Tom Vincent, Terry Bryne,

Denis Collins (RA Inf), Denis O'Neill, John Duncan, Chris Elphinston, John Scales, Reg Whitehead, John

and Leonie Spurway Dave Hannell, Bruce Anderson, Harry Gauvin and Col Swinfield.

18

Bruce Eldridge Scrivenor (RAA) joined the ASC as a 2Lt on 16th

December 1955. He was posted to OTU on 29th

March 1965 as an

Instructor and from 27th

– 30th

July 1967 was the Adjutant before

becoming the SI until 12th

February 1968. He died some years ago.

His son was in the Army until recently.

Kimble ‘Kim’ Anthony Patterson, RMC Graduate and Infantry DS,

joined the ASC as a Lt on 10th

December 1958. He was posted to

OTU with Capt Scrivener on 29th

March 1965 and while at OTU,

according to Al Pope, tried to kick out as many Cadets as possible!

Patterson had served in Vietnam from 3rd

- 12th

December 1962 with

HQ AFV and again from 3rd

March to 12th

May 1964. Kim was posted

to 1 RAR on 22nd

May 1967 and returned to Vietnam with 1 RAR

from 18th

March 1968 until 28th

February 1969 and served with 1RAR

at Coral.

Clifford ‘Cliff’ Louis Bailey (RAAOC) joined the ASC on 9th

December 1959 as a Lt and was posted to OTU on 1st April 1965 as

one of the original DS, teaching Admin. He was posted to HQ 6 TF on

9th

August 1967. Al Pope met him again in 6TF and got on well with

him. Cliff was then posted to HQ 1 ATF in Vietnam from 13th

April

1968 until 18th

March 1969. Unfortunately, the relationship between

Cliff and Al came unstuck when Al went to work for him in Canberra

in 1980:

Cliff Bailey and the SCUBA Project Team Alistair Pope (4/66)

‘Just after I arrived, Lt Col Cliff Bailey joined Stock Control Usage Based-Army (SCUBA) as ‘Chief of

the Implementation Team’. Cliff had been the RAAOC Instructor at OTU when I was there in 1966-67,

so I had known him for my whole Army career. In Enoggera (before I went to Vietnam in 1969) he

constantly sought me out to play Chess - which he inevitably lost, except for one game – the greatest

game ever played! Despite the long hours, overwork and impossible deadlines, Cliff insisted on playing

one chess game every day (which usually took between 30-minutes and an hour). This went on for

months.

It was obvious that Cliff was under a great deal of pressure from the Director of Supply (DSup), Brigadier

Kew, the complexities of the SCUBA work and because he was under investigation for his time as

Commanding Officer of the 41st Supply Battalion in Adelaide. The worst case scenario in this last area

was that he was facing prosecution and a possible Court Martial. Despite his somewhat abrupt manner his

team was supportive and I liked him. However, in July 1980 Cliff’s career and character fell apart when

he was charged with six counts of wrongdoing (or incompetence) in his previous command.

The work was unrelenting and most of us worked 7-days a week, 10-12 hours a day, but we still could not

keep up as the team should have been at least three times larger. Brigadier Kew refused all requests for

additional resources so failure was inevitable. Despite the certainty that we could not deliver on time

nobody shirked their work but continued to try to do the impossible. We all believed that every week

when Cliff attended the DSup conference that he was fighting our case for resources and relief from the

unrealistic delivery target date. If only …

Unfortunately, Cliff blamed his workers for the failure of the team to deliver on time and changed from

being a friend to a man disliked by his staff. Seven of the eight officers on the staff were given poor

performance reports.

Cliff was convicted at his Court Martial in October 1980 on four charges. He lost seniority and was given

a severe reprimand. His career was over.

19

The DSup, Brig Kew, died, and was

replaced by Brig Milliken. A review of all

the Officer Reports was undertaken and

the reports rewritten. Cliff Bailey’s

reputation sank even lower! He died in

about 2002 believed to have been

suffering with lung cancer.

Maj Gen Gordon John Fitzgerald was

born on 19th

September 1934 and joined

the ASC as a Lt on 12th

December 1956

with the RAA. While a member of 102 Fd

Bty he paid a visit to Vietnam from 23rd

June – 2nd

July 1964. He was posted to

OTU on 15th

June 1966 as SI (Maj) and

paid another visit to Vietnam from 9th

April – 28th

May 1968 while a member of

staff at OTU. Gordon was next in Vietnam

as a member of the 1st Australian Civil Affairs Unit from 10

th October 1970 – 16

th September 1971. ‘The

General’ was admitted to Greenslopes Hospital on Thursday 5 November 2015 and diagnosed with lung

and liver cancer. He fell into a coma and passed away peacefully with his family present on Wednesday

11 November. He is survived by two daughters, Jenny and Linda and their families.

General Fitzgerald's final parade was conducted with full military honours at St Augustine's Anglican

Church, 56 Racecourse Road, Hamilton, Brisbane on Thursday 19 November.

John McKenner, Sgt Instructor OTU 1967, died 28th

July 2002 via Lex Neville (2/67)

On 30th

April this year the ABC showed an item where the ADF was blamed for the loss of a family’s

parents in a murder-suicide. It turned out that the murderer was once a staff member at OTU. Sgt John

McKenner was a Drill Instructor at OTU in 1967. Lex Neville remembers him at OTU and also when

John was with Lex’s Army Reserve’s unit A Coy, 2 RVR at Shepparton, Vic, in 1976 – 78.

WO2 McKenner served with the AATV in Vietnam from 30th

July 1969 – 9th

July 1970 and was with the 2/3 ARVN at Hue, Thua Thien. He served 24 years

in the Army.

Lex said: ‘We certainly had no idea at Shepparton of a family in crisis. John and

Lorraine attended mess social functions together. At Scheyville and at

Shepparton he was very professional and good value to both units. When the

news came through to Shepparton I remember we ran some fund raisers to help

the kids’.

There is an expectation and acceptance that war will produce casualties, but that does not make it any

easier to bear the grief. However, when we lose them after the war, but because of the war, that is a new

kind of grief altogether.

A couple of well-known Non-Scheyvillians:

‘Digger’ James

There would be few people with an interest in things military who didn’t know, or know of, Major

General William Brian 'Digger' James AC, AO (Mil), MBE, MC. ‘Digger’ was born on 14th

May 1930 at

Shepparton Victoria, the son of Thomas C James, Orchardist. He was educated at Grahamvale State

School, Shepparton High School, Royal Military College Duntroon 1948-1951, University of Sydney

MBBS 1963, RAMC Millbank UK, London DTM&H, DPH and London University DIH.1969/71.

20

‘Digger’ graduated from the Royal Military College Duntroon in 1951 and was a Platoon Commander

with 1 RAR in the Korean War in 1952. He was seriously wounded in action, losing a foot, but still

helped the evacuation of other injured soldiers, immediate award of Military Cross, and then from 1954-6

with the RAAC. He was Adjutant Armoured School, then Adjutant 12th/16th Hunter River Lancers in

Muswellbrook. In 1957 he resigned from the Army to undertake medical studies at Sydney University. He

graduated in 1964 and was commissioned as a Captain in the RAAMC. He served at 2 Camp Hospital

from 1964-1966, Medical Officer, Duntroon Hospital 1966-68, Officer Commanding 8th Field

Ambulance and Senior Medical Officer 1st ATF Vietnam War 1968-69 and was awarded the MBE. He

was a Medical Officer, St John Ambulance in the Biafran War, Nigeria in 1971 (Awarded O StJ). Then

Director of Medical Services Qld 1971-75, Director of Army Medical Services 1975-81. He provided

Field Hospital and medical support for Professor Fred Hollows Aboriginal Trachoma Programmes in

Cental Australia 1976-7. ‘Digger’ was promoted to Major General, Director General of Army Health

Services 1981-85 and awarded the AO. In civvie street he had been a Director, Visy Industries

Queensland, since 1986. ‘Digger’ was National President of the R&SL from 1993 – 97 and was on the

council of the AWM 1993 – 2000.

‘Digger’ married Barbara in 1954 and they had 4 children and have 9 grandchildren.

Digger’ died in Brisbane on 16th

October 2015. A public memorial was held for ‘Digger’ on 30th

October

in Brisbane.

Left: Former Chair of the Australian War

Memorial Major-General William

'Digger' James (CENTRE) and the

Governor-General Sir William Deane

and Lady Deane during the 2000

Remembrance Day Ceremony.

John Pericles Arthur Deighton was born in Athens, Greece, on

9th

February 1935. John was a student of Mentone Grammar

School from 1945 to 1952. He was a wonderful supporter of the

School. Deighton House is named in honour of John and his

brother Derek

John joined the ASC as a 2Lt on 19th

December 1953. On 3rd

November 1963 John was posted to 4 RAR as Adjutant before the

battalion was officially raised. With 1, 2 and 3 RAR being raised

from the battalions serving in the Occupation Forces in Japan, 4

RAR became the first RAR Battalion to be raised in Australia. JPD

was detached to HQ 1 ATF in Vietnam from 21st Mar - 24

th April

1967. He then served with 4 RAR from 21st May 1968 – 30

th May

1969 . Arriving in Vietnam on 1st June 1968 as Officer

Commanding D Company, during the following eight months he

commanded D Company with determination and vigour in eight

major operations. His company conducted numerous successful

ambushes and achieved an extremely high standard of patrolling.

On a number of occasions D Company located enemy defensive

positions and despite fierce resistance by the enemy, Major Deighton’s skill and calmness under fire

resulted in his company achieving marked success. He was awarded a Military Cross while serving with 4

RAR. (Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 4th

September 1969, Page 5199, Position 3).

21

John later served as CO of 2/4 RAR and became a Task Force Commander in Townsville but maintained

a ‘soft spot’ for 2/4 RAR. Always known as JPA, John became the Patron for the 4 RAR Association.

JPA was the secretary and CEO of the RSL State Branch Victoria for many years until he retired and

became TPI. He was a member of Frankston RSL and Patron of Mornington Peninsula Vietnam Veterans

Association. His funeral was held on 20th

October in Mornington, Victoria, and a ‘Wake’ was held at the

Frankston RSL.

FEATURES:

Medals – What are we Entitled to? Ross McKeand & Roger Dundas (both 1/69)

All Nashos are entitled to two medals: The Australian Defence Medal (2nd

from

left) and The Anniversary of NS Medal (left). For those with overseas service other

medals are available. Ross and Roger have put together a few words to help you

identity what you are entitled to!

Ross: ‘Several of you dearly beloved have asked to be informed of my progress to

and through the Federal bureaucratic world of ‘Medaldom’. As it is sure to be a

lengthy journey I should keep you informed in chapters as events unfold (which

you will have observed, events frequently do).’

Chapter 1: I first read "The Castle" by Fanz Kafka. It got me mentally prepared for the journey.

Chapter 2: I received guidance from Finlay (Ken, 1/69) who identified the target as -

1. Australian Active Service Medal 1945-75 with clasp ‘Vietnam’

2. Vietnam Medal (which you would already have)

3. Australian Defence Medal

4. Anniversary of National Service Commemorative Medal

5. Vietnamese Campaign Medal (which you would already have)

6. Returned from Active Service Badge (you might have received on discharge but probably not)

You may not all wish to attack all those targets and you may add others as appropriate.

Chapter 3: I gave my computer written orders to proceed forthwith to the following FUP, designated by

military intelligence officer Whitaker (Dick, 1/69, whom I recommend for an award) -

http://www.defence.gov.au/Medals/Content/Australian/Default.asp

Chapter 4: Using my own local cunning and knowledge of the enemy I navigated to confirm that I was

entitled to apply for Nos. 1, 3, 4 and 6.

Chapter 5: I then secured from the enemy the single application form necessary for all those medals.

The downloading was conducted in secrecy and at night. (Application for Medals AD807.pdf)

Chapter 6: Being barely literate I inscribed symbols vaguely resembling letters of the alphabet on to the

form to enter the required information. I then forged my own signature to it and dispatched it by

unreliable courier known as Australia Post to the required bureaucratic office.

Chapter 7: I waited. As yet I have received no intelligence as

to the success of the operation.

Finally, are there any questions? That man! ..... The answer to

your question is, yes, I have been drinking.

Rear guards to all, Ross

Roger (right) added: For those who "hung around" a bit longer

the Australian Defence Medal for 4 years’ service (or your

initial Enlistment Period – Ed.). I call it the "Participation

Medal". Roger

http://www.defence.gov.au/Medals/Content/Australian/Australian-Defence-Medal.asp

Postscript: The medal process took approximately six months to complete. Ross said: ‘All targets

captured. I have also recently captured a DVA medical Gold Card which should be useful as I age.

22

Ten Weeks or Twelve (Edition 2 of 2015)

Following the article on ‘Ten Weeks or Twelve’ in Edition 2 of 2015, there were a number of responses

from Scheyvillians who did the whole Recruit Course prior to being selected for OTU.

1733664 Allan Burman, Graduate 698, Class 2/68. After deferring for 3 years, Allan successfully

completed his Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Queensland at the end of 1967.

He commenced NS in February 1968 at Kapooka, but was not picked up for OTU until the Selection

Board at Kapooka for Intake 2/68 in May. ‘I found that the Recruit Training definitely helped with the

Junior Term at OTU. I ended up on "Kings Row" in my Senior Term as CSM "B" Coy. I graduated 3rd

in

2/68 Class from OTU and was posted back to Queensland with Northern Command Workshop, RAEME.’

Allan served his two years before returning to civilian employment as a Mechanical Engineer. He has

been retired for many years.

5715621 Philip Burton, Graduate Number 725, Class 2/68 commenced his NS on 7 February and like all

West Australians undertook his Recruit Training at Puckapunyal. During Corps Training Philip was

selected for OTU and Graduated with Class 2/68 in October, being posted to the RAE Corps. During his

NS Philip was posted to AHQ in Canberra in Movements and then to 10 Movements Control

Detachment. On discharge Philip transferred to the CMF with Movement Control in Western Command

being promoted to Lieutenant on the next day.

3792786 Mervyll Reid, Graduate 696, Class 2/68. Mervyll commenced his NS at the Batman Ave

Engineers Depot in Melbourne on 7 Feb 1968. He completed his 10 weeks Recruit Training at

Puckapunyal. Mervyll stated that he had failed his Psych Test ‘Registered a little in arrears of retarded

beetroot.’ He then went to Corps Training with the Infantry at Singleton. His Platoon commander noted

he had a degree just prior to boarding HMAS Sydney for Vietnam. Another psych test revealed ‘a much

improved beetroot.’ He had no trouble with entry to Scheyville. Having graduated from OTU he

undertook his Corps Training with RAAOC at Bandiana and completed his NS at Broadmeadows. ‘I

retired hurt in March 1970 and fled to the UK with a child bride. I am now convinced I should have

chosen Infantry rather than Ordnance and gone to Vietnam. With attention to detail I'm sure I would now

be Gov Gen.’

3792831 Neil Leckie, Graduate 793, Class 3/68) Having deferred to complete a Diploma of Electrical

Engineering (but not actually finishing all subjects) he commenced his NS at the Batman Avenue

Engineer’s Depot with Mervyll Reid. ‘While completing the Recruit Course (at the same time as Normie

Rowe) helped me during the Junior Term and I was also on ‘King’s Row’, in my Senior term apparently I

wasn’t up to scratch in the Field Training side of things and I was asked to Repeat! Being in the Army for

the two years I thought ‘why not!’ I was posted as a Platoon Commander at 1 RTB Kapooka for the

second year of NS. I eventually retired after three stints in the Reserve, and 1989 Full-time, having served

34 years. I think the Army got its money’s worth in allowing me to Repeat! I am pretty sure that I would

never have served on post NS Discharge as a Digger.’

What Happened to? David Taylor, Class 4/66

Anyone who passed through the gates of OTU as a Cadet or Staff Member is a Scheyvillian. 3790261

John David McDonald (David) Taylor is a Scheyvillian! David was educated at Launceston Church

Grammar School in Tasmania and served in the School Cadets which he says ’were a good stepping

stone’ into the Army. He marched into OTU with Class 4/66, the smallest OTU intake. He was in B Coy

near the Parade Ground which saved a lot of time getting to Classes. He enjoyed the life and training at

OTU, especially the sport and the swimming in particular where he was presented a certificate as the

‘Outstanding Swimmer’.

Moving in to the Senior Term, with his fellow Classmates David found himself with two ‘Sons’, Ralph

Bertinetti and Robert Bamford, both of whom David is pleased to say Graduated. David was confident of

graduating, however, disaster struck about three weeks into the Senior term when he tore a cartilage in a

knee playing rugby. Whilst at 2 Camp Hospital, Ingleburn, David sat and passed his theory exams.

23

However, on discharge from hospital on ‘Light Duties’ David was unable to attend the compulsory final

exercise. David was offered a ‘Repeat’ Term, which he accepted. However, the knee problem re-occurred

and again he was unable to attend the final exercise again. David’s Guidance Officer, the late David

Presgrave, suggested that there was no point in staying at OTU as he was not to graduate. At an informal

meeting with Col Geddes he was asked where he would like to be posted. David selected Armour. The

next day he was all alone at Central Station in Sydney and took the night train to Puckapunyal. That trip

was the loneliest trip he had ever taken.

Arriving mid-course at the Armoured Centre as a private school educated ‘Scheyville drop-out’ with

mostly Ex-British Sgt and Cpl Instructors with no overseas service, David felt he did not have a friend in

the place. Despite this he passed the radio course and was then posted to do a Ferret Driving Course –

there were no Ferrets used in Vietnam. A posting to a ‘dead end’ unit, A Sqn, 2 Cav Regt, Holsworthy,

followed. David managed to get a transfer to A Sqn, 3 Cav Regt, which was the training and holding unit

for 3 Cav in Vietnam. Three weeks in Shoalwater Bay gave him an APC licence, while two weeks at Tin

Can Bay saw him pass his Sgt’s exams. David was then promoted to Corporal. David’s two years were up

when he was back at Holsworthy. He has done a lot, seen a lot, but hadn’t been to Vietnam.

A kindly CO, David Lawrence, accepted a six-month’s extension to his NS and

within ten days (9th

September 1968) David was in Vietnam, given a pistol, a

M16 rifle, a M79 Grenade Launcher and was out on patrol the next morning. It

didn’t take long before David’s Scheyville training kicked in he was in virtual

control of the APC Section. Disaster struck on 10th

December when David’s

APC ran over an anti-tank mine. His Driver wasn’t injured but David had

shrapnel wounds and broken bones. On 16th

December he was ‘Medivaced’ via

Butterworth and Richmond and eventually back to Launceston on the ‘Herc’ that

is now on display at the Pt Cook RAAF Museum. A very lonely flight with no

morphine!!

After five months rehabilitation doing nothing, David was discharged after 2

years and eight months in the Army.

Post-Army David started work in a garden fertiliser company in Melbourne and worked his way up to a

Sales Representative. The company sent him to Adelaide where he stayed for ten years. After a marriage

breakdown David moved to Perth and was the Production Manager for the largest wholesale nursery in

the Southern Hemisphere. However, six years later the DVA classified him as TPI and in 2000 he retired

to Tasmania. In 2010 David received a double lung transplant (see Edition 3 of 2014).

David’s Observations:

It was never known by others how long a person had spent at Scheyville’,

It was never known by others why a person did not graduate,

There was no counselling available,

The more basic the unit the more animosity and lack of understanding there was,

The more active the unit, particularly in Vietnam, the less the

‘stigma’,

Having been to Scheyville and ‘failed’ seemed to follow me right

through NS,

The Army was not very keen on private school education: a number

of us had life made more difficult because of it,

Without my Scheyville experience I would not have achieved half

of what I achieved both in the Army and in civilian life,

My lifelong rewards for having been at Scheyville and the length of time that I was there made a

huge difference in the following areas:

Self discipline, problem solving, planning & Staff Management.

Was it all worth it? David says ‘Yes, I believe so!’

24

What happened to? Peter Morgan (1/66)

2783234 Peter Ross Morgan was born on 14th

August 1945 and commenced

his military service at 3 TB Singleton on 2nd

February 1966. He arrived at

OTU on 19th

February. He graduated with Class 1/66, Graduate Number 153

on 22nd

July and was posted to the Reinforcement Wing of the Infantry centre,

then located at Ingleburn. Peter writes:

I've been looking through the letters that Bev and I exchanged during my time

at OTU and in SVN. (The description of some of his platoon being too drunk

to do Picquet Duty in) a letter from 24 May 1967, a couple of weeks before

6RAR left the country, is about one of the many incidents that I have totally

forgotten about. I had an interesting two years:

• Recruit Bn at Singleton where I was lucky enough to go through all the horrible stuff of Dixie-

bashing in the kitchen, Guard Duty and all the other unpleasant things that the private soldier had to

do. I always felt that part of the philosophy in our training was to make us aware of how officers

could make the digger's life miserable and I valued having seen what might have been the worst of

it before I went to Scheyville.

I had to go to court as a witness on the day you fellows were de-bussed onto the parade ground, so I

missed that welcome. When I arrived a day or so later, I was pretty astonished with the shell-

shocked looks on faces that I saw. I valued missing that welcome too.

• to the reinforcement wing at Ingleburn along with Gary Reidy and Neville Gale, who said he left

Scheyville "with a ticket to Vietnam". When he said that, I was pretty impressed, until I realised I

had been in the same boat.

• did the Jungle Training Course at Canungra - twice - I reckon ‘coz the BBC had a crew making a

documentary and we were the group they covered. So we had often to do things twice so they could

get their "shot". Blair Weaver (who helicoptered us in his little Bell a couple of times while at OTU

and I travelled with to SVN later) were focussed on ‘coz officers being treated like Privates by other

Privates was rather intriguing for the British.

• hit the Reinforcement Unit in November (10th

) and took over 8 Pl, 6 RAR, in December (15th

).

They were Regs and first two intake Nashos who had been together since 6 was raised and through

Long Tan, and must have wondered what this kid was going to be like.

• back home in June (14th

) to a six-week old baby (the day I got the telegram about his birth 8 Pl

was being ‘choppered out’ to spend a few days and nights protecting the end of the infamous

minefield that was going in).

• after leave, returned to Brisbane as Assistant Adjutant of a skeleton battalion. Most of the Nashos

were discharged on return, and the Regs had much more leave than me ‘coz of my shorter time in

country. My job then was to see the move of 6 RAR to Townsville. When the rest returned from

leave, a parade was held for the departing RSM. That was my first time on the Parade Ground after

leaving OTU and I was reminded that I was always out of step. I had to be out front and my Sgt

was going "eff, right, eff, right" behind me to try to keep me in step. No-one abused me later!

I wonder how many Scheyvillians fitted in a trip to the funny country and still had six months to finish

before their two years was up, other than by being ‘Medivaced’?

Post NS Peter went back to teaching kids how to find the value of ‘x’. Maths for the non-technical!

4628 Cpl David Watson 14th

Battalion – WW1 Polygon Wood Frank Paton (2/70)

These are my personal responses to my visit in 2015 to the area where my uncle lived, fought

and died in WW1 on 26th

September 1917:

I was able to research a significant amount of material about David before I went and also during

the trip with the assistance of the historian who was guiding the visit. I thought for many years that I

would like to know a lot more about our mother's family and now that I am not working long hours, I

have over the last year started to delve more deeply and to plan my visit to Northern France and Southern

Belgium. It was wonderful - how moving. It not only filled a vacuum in my knowledge, but also actually

25

provided enjoyment to know more information finally, even though mixed with sadness. Maybe there had

been a lack of discussion in my mother's family about her brother's death, as she was very young when it

happened (about 12) and her parents and brothers were no doubt extremely traumatised, especially as

David was the second son killed in WW1 after Percy had been killed in Gallipoli. Accordingly, possibly

David's service and death were not discussed in front of the children. It was probably much more usual in

that generation to "protect" children from unpleasant realities.

I had had vague thoughts over several years of visiting the Western Front or Gallipoli. Ironically, the

travel agent who had arranged my visit two years ago to Long Tan with Dave Sabben notified me of a

tour it was organising in the UK which included Test Cricket and a 9 day visit to the Western Front

(National Network Travel & Cruise, Judi Gifford). I read about it with mounting interest, but it was too

long. They tracked down a visit organised by Mat McLachlan. It was a 4 day visit – a very busy schedule,

but it meant not too many days of grim reality in succession. I quickly realised that Mat's visit was exactly

what I was looking for, especially when it promised that the guide was an historian.

The guide never glorified war and was not one-sided – he spoke of the suffering of soldiers on both sides

and showed us some German graves. Before I went I researched some of the information about the battles

in which David would have been involved leading up to his death and I had some idea, but very little. The

historian guide wisely asked me for details about David well before the trip and it became obvious during

the visit that he had researched David's service with the 14th

Infantry Battalion. I told him that I believed

David was listed at the Menin Gate at Ypres, Belgium (now usually spelt Ieper). He was killed on 26

September 1917.

When we reached Ypres on the second day of the visit the guide found David's name on the Menin Gate,

which was very moving. I could just reach his carved name and touched his name. Out of nowhere I

teared up. I left a poppy there. We then went travelling for the day to various other locations.

Something else very significant was yet to happen. As some of you will know, the Belgians

conduct a remembrance/reflection ceremony at the Menin Gate at 8pm every single night of the

year. They give thanks every night for their freedom and to the forces from Australia, UK, NZ,

Canada etc who saved Belgium. The Belgians started this ceremony on the first evening after

the Germans were driven out of Ypres in WW1 and continued it until the Germans re-invaded in

1939. The Belgians then re-started the ceremony the very day the Germans were pushed out of

Ypres in WW2 (presumably 1945?). They were obviously not ones to waste any time.

When the Belgians heard that a relative of an Australian soldier listed on the Menin Gate was

going to be attending that evening (no doubt informed by our guide) they invited me and two

others from our group to join the formal party and lay a wreath, which they provided for us. It

comprised strikingly beautiful yellow/gold and green flowers – presumably Australia's colours.

About 200 – 300 people attended the ceremony, standing for 1 ½ hours in light rain before the

service started (so as to secure a good vantage point). It was a very emotional service anyway,

but made all the more so by participating in it.

Afterwards the very tall Belgian leader of the service came over and asked lots of questions and

was obviously very interested. At the end of our discussion he said "Remember that Australians

will always be welcomed in Belgium". He was a very impressive person. Ray Elder says: " Every new

leader of a country should walk through the Menin Gate."

There are detailed records made by Australian historians who were always very close to the front

line in WW1, so from Army Reports we could work out fairly closely the place where David lost

his life. The battle records are very precise. I asked the guide to stop at the closest place possible, which

he did before Polygon Wood. Whilst stopped he read several quotes from David's comrades. It was totally

unexpected and threw me - the other members of the group patiently waited while he read information

about David. I left the mini-bus and walked around, then stood quietly. I took several photos in different

directions of the surrounding farmland. I was drained.

26

Don Ramsay (4/67) then and now.

2788107 Donald ‘Don’ Alexander Roderic Ramsay was born at Waratah,

Newcastle, on 2nd

August 1945 and completed his education at Hamilton Marist

Brothers High School. Before entering the Army he was employed as a

Computer Operator with B.H.P. Having deferred for some time Don

commenced his Army service on 4th

October 1967 and commenced officer

training at Scheyville on 27th

October. He graduated with Class 4/67, Graduate

Number 595, and was posted to the RAASC Centre for Corps Training. His

wife Helen was at the Graduation and was the ‘angel pinning my pips on’.

On 18th

June 1968 he was posted to 1 RTB, Kapooka. Helen was teaching

languages at Wagga High School in 1969 and did not want to desert her HSC

students before the exams. Don was keen to sign on and stay in the Army but got the ‘over my dead body

speech’ from Helen. He is glad really as it would not have been as good as things otherwise turned out.

On completion of his NS Commitment, Don extended his service for three months to stay at Wagga and

was discharged on 3rd

January 1970. The following day he commenced service as a T/Lt with the CMF

being attached to the RAASC, Eastern Command.

Some members had good experiences serving with the CMF post-NS, some didn’t. This is Don’s story.

I joined the CMF on discharge and chose 16 Company, RAASC based at Camp Shortland at Horseshoe

Beach on Newcastle Harbour. This was an amphibious transport unit though I don’t recall ever getting

wet. The troops there were as good as any I had encountered in the ARA. The Officers were, with the

possible exception of the OC, decidedly amateur and clearly never had the benefit of the Leadership

classes we enjoyed at OTU.

Within a few months of joining 16 Coy, the Annual Camp was held at Singleton Army base. The OC

directed that the camp was to be a refresher of infantry skills for his truck/DUKW/LARC drivers. The

brilliant 16 Tpt Coy Pipes & Drums were in camp as well but theirs was to be a band camp with lots of

music and much after-hours Scotch culture immersion.

As I had recent ‘infantry’ experience, I was appointed to take command of all the troops and put them

through two weeks of infantry skills refresher: bushcraft, navigation, ambush, etc. The OC assigned

himself the role of OC of everything and his 2IC as Exercise Director. The other two Lieutenants in the

Coy assigned themselves the roles of Staff Officer A and Staff Officer Q. The exercise then went this

way: The OC and his 2IC plus the two staff officers set up ‘office’ in the Mess and were not seen again

until the last night of the camp. I took the troops up into the hills and played soldiers for a couple of hard

but fun weeks.

The troops could see what was going on with the other officers and were less than positively impressed.

On the second last night in camp, I briefed the troops that we were going to stage a night attack in the wee

small hours of the coming morning. I got them up at about 0300 and we shot off down the road in a few

vehicles. We debussed and with some expediency made our way back, on foot, to the camp by a

circuitous back route. The last 2 kms or so from the camp we went into silent mode. When we arrived at

the camp perimeter, one squad was detached to create a diversion (lots of blanks firing and yelling) while

a small team snuck into the camp and pinched the OC’s Land Rover and as quietly as possible drove it

away from the camp. We all RV’d back at the transports and had an enormous group chuckle. We then

drove back to camp arriving at breakfast time having concealed the OC’s Land Rover and of course

denied all knowledge of the events the night before. ‘Must have been some other outfit also in camp or

perhaps the Regulars?’ The morale of the troops was through the roof despite having been kicked out of

bed at 0300 and having covered at least 6kms on foot – not usually considered a truck drivers idea of fun.

Just to demonstrate how insensitive these officers were, on the last night of the camp there was a big

booze-up in the OR’s mess to which the OC, 2IC and Staff Officers invited themselves and told me I was

27

not to attend. I wasn’t happy about it but orders are orders so settled into to a quiet night in the mess on

my ‘Pat’ Malone. When the troops asked where I was they were told I would not be coming. Not the right

answer! Within minutes, there was bedlam bordering on mutiny from the, by then, well lubricated troops.

I having a sipping on a beer in the ‘Officers’ when I heard this chant go up from the OR’s mess “We want

Ramsay! We want Ramsay!” Eventually, an agitated Staff Officer A was dispatched to bring me down to

the OR’s mess. Turned out to be a great night and one of the most enjoyable in my brief military career!

In 1970, I recommenced my

University career having

withdrawn in 1966. Around

September, I resigned from the

CMF to concentrate on getting

through my end of year exams and

never went back. I think it was a

mistake to go from a professional

full-time army to an amateurish,

part-time one.

At the age of 62 Don took up

flying. He has been totally

absorbed into aviation ever since. Don would have loved to have attended the Canberra reunion this year,

but the event clashed with his new aircraft, a Sling 2 LSA, arriving at the Gold Coast in a container from

Johannesburg, South Africa. Don boasts that it is ‘An absolutely beautiful looking aircraft that handles

like a dream in the air’.

Other Aircraft Stories

No. 5 Army Pilots Course Reunion.

On 14th

June some of the members, and their partners, of No. 5 Army Pilots Course (12th

January – 20th

July 1970) had a reunion at the Ettamogah Pub near Maroochydore, Qld. The course presented a

plaque to the pub, in memory of course member Brian (Turrets) Sullivan MC MG MID (1/66). Turrets,

way back then, had organised the then Australian Post cartoonist, Ken Maynard (of Ettamogah fame) to

design the No. 5 Army Shoulder Patch. This was the first reunion in over 40 years.

Course attendees were Scheyvillians Dave Griffiths (1 and 2/69), Rick Jarrett (2/69), Graham (Ned) Kelly

(2/69) and John Lowis (2/69) and Brian Sullivan (1/66), and were Rick Neville (Duntroon) and Ian Smith

(Portsea).

The pub hosted the event

providing the dinner and liquid

refreshments and was presented

with a large plaque, displaying a

memorial to Turrets, the Ken

Maynard Shoulder Patch,

course photograph and a bit of a

wing!

Note: Brian John Sullivan is

listed on the OTU Website as

‘Deceased’ but there is no

Obituary. If any member has

details on Brian’s death, could

they please let the Editor know

so that this ‘gap’ can be filled!

28

Anthony William Hammett was born on 9th

June 1936. He was commissioned as a Lt in the ASC on

10th

December 1958 and posted to the 20th

NS Training Battalion at Puckapunyal. After a posting at the

Army Apprentice’s School at Balcombe, Vic, Tony was posted to 16 Army Light Aircraft Squadron.

After two postings within 2 RAR Tony was posted to OTU Scheyville as one of the original Instructors

on 1st April 1965. From OTU Tony returned to the RAR with the 1

st Battalion, commanding D Coy at the

time of the Coral battle. Tony loved flying!

On 26th

July 1990 Tony was the pilot of a Beech E90. He submitted his flight plan from Cairns to Wondai

and then to Camden. The aircraft was conducting a night departure from Runway 36 at Wondai,

Queensland. After an apparently normal take-off, the aircraft

struck the ground 600 metres beyond the end of the runway in

a shallow, wings level descent and at high speed. The aircraft

was destroyed by impact forces and fire, and five of the six

occupants on board were killed. All occupants of the aircraft

had injuries consistent with high impact forces. The surviving

passenger's injuries would have been fatal had it not been for

the prompt arrival of medical assistance.

Left: A monument in memory of the victims of the crash and

also in recognition of the community effort at the scene of

the accident is located at Byee Road, Wondai.

http://monumentaustralia.org.au/themes/disaster/aviation/display/100314-wondai-plane-crash-

Aircraft mentioned in Issue 2 of 2015 Peter Don (3/69)

In the last issue of The Scheyvillian the former OTU steward (Peter Tomlinson), in his very interesting

article, mentioned a plane, a Tiger Moth, landing at Scheyville. Someone had bracketed the name Adrian

Clunies-Ross alongside. I am pretty sure this was DS Capt Tony Hammett, who two and a half decades

later died in a plane crash in Queensland. Tony was a pilot and an Olympian - a pentathlete. No doubt

others have made similar speculations. (Ed. - Please advise your thoughts).

AIRCRAFT WRECKS AT SCHEYVILLE

Eric Blythe (2/70) sent down a scan of an article in a magazine ‘Classic Wings’ Vol 20 No 2 Issue 90

2013, Page 24. On seeing the photograph in the article he immediately recognised the area as being

Scheyville. The caption for the photograph was: Seen at Scheyville, NSW in 1986, these forward fuselage

and wing wrecks will augment the restoration.

Dave McDonald from ‘Classic Wings’ magazine advised that ‘ looks like the fuselage of a Devon there

and the Oscar remains were part of a package that has gone to Japanese collector who will incorporate

bits and pieces into the restoration of another example, which was at one time stored with the AWM,

before being sold to (the Duxford based Fighter Collection in) the UK.’

29

They remained in store (in the UK) until purchased by Nobuo Harada in mid-2013 and returned to their

homeland. Harada will restore an Oscar to air worthy condition, however it will remain on static display

in his museum amongst good company- joining the Zero and the Betty as examples of Imperial Japan’s

air power.

If anyone can shed some light on why these aircraft wrecks were at Scheyville, please advise the Editor.

Peter Clisdell (1/68) Angel Flight

Peter has just completed his 100th Angel Flight in his newly engined Cessna 210. Retirement for these

wonderful Charities is so rewarding.

If Scheyvillians wish to donate to Angel Flight, please contact Peter at: prc@peterandhelen.com.au

Gradings & Seniority – A Pilot’s Perspective Paul Rees (3/68)

At the 2013 40th

Reunion Ex Major Charlie Barnett handed over his set of Class Photographs and

Gradings for the classes that were held while he was an Instructor at OTU. On seeing the gradings Paul

wrote: ‘I’m a little bemused to read the definitions of gradings on the final exercise when you compare

them with the actual gradings of cadets. If you delete me as RAInf (remember I graduated to AAAvn and

then was Corps transferred to Infantry) you come up with the following figures:

B- Grading 50% (1 from 2) to Inf; C+ Grading 33% to Inf (3 from 9); C Grading 31% (5 from 16);

C- Grading 41% (9 from 22) and E+ Grading 36% (4 from 11)

While the differences aren’t great it would appear that the bulk of RAInf graduates in our class came from

C- and E+ Gradings (13 of the 22 posted). A little odd for a place that intended to turn out Infantry

Platoon Commanders as its primary purpose.

It is also interesting to compare the exercise gradings with the seniority on graduation list. There appear

to be some parallels but there are enough exceptions to places on both lists to wonder, but it’s far too

early in the morning (sunny for the first time in a week) to get involved.

(Ed. – from the ‘Blue Book’ of the top ten graduates in Class 3/68 five were posted to RAInf, three were

posted to AAAvn – all Nashos and not Air Cadets – one posted to RAE and one to RAEME. The highest

graduating Air Cadet was eighteenth of sixty-four.)

Remember when? (Neil Leckie 3/68)

Class 3/68 had leave until midnight on Saturday night 16th

November 1968. I took a number of classmates

to a party in Vaucluse on South Head in my white HR Holden. Getting towards the end of my repeat term

I was keen to get back to Scheyville on time and not earn any ‘Extras’, so I finally got the others into the

car by 10.30pm according to my letters home (I always had it in my mind it was 10.50pm). According to

Google Maps it is approximately 65 kms and 1 hour’s driving from Vaucluse across Sydney to Scheyville

without traffic today, (no Motorways then) so we were ‘pushing it’. It was a cool night but with the heater

flat out and all windows down it was a bit of fun as I remember. One of our members (possibly Brian

O’Sullivan) had a ‘slide rule’ on his watch and was updating our required average speed, which by the

time we left Windsor Road had reached 60mph. As were flew around Dormitory Hill Road we heard the

siren go. Our collective hearts sank! Fortunately the Duty Officer was a minute or so late arriving to place

the red line under the returned signatures in the Leave Book, so we were saved any ‘Extras’.

I can’t be sure of who was in the car with me that night. Do any 3/68 members remember that trip home?

Pass or Fail – How were you told? Neil Leckie (3/68)

After the major exercise, the Class of 2/68 were addressed in the Dining Room by a Staff Officer. The

address took the form of something like: ‘The following Cadets have Adjutant’s Interviews (not

graduating and to get administrative instructions for their next posting)’ and the following Cadets have

Commandant’s Interviews (to be counselled by the Commandant as to why they did not graduate and

offered the opportunity to Repeat). Those not mentioned were to Graduate. Like most of us who were at

30

the level of training that they thought they would graduate I was shocked and disappointed not to

graduate, but at least I knew I was close. At the Commandant’s Interview I was told that my field training

let me down and that with further experience I should do OK.

I felt that the Army had me for two years and I knew what the Senior Term held so I decided to ‘Repeat’.

In the Class 3/68 major exercise I held the position of Platoon Sergeant for the first day and was a

machine gunner for most of the rest of the exercise. As I had the only one appointment I was feeling that

perhaps I hadn’t really been tested and may yet not graduate.

As it turns out ‘Repeating’ was a good move as, after 34 years of Army and Army Reserve service, in

2011 I finally reached retirement age and ‘got out’.

How did your class find out whether members were to graduate or not?

Getting it Right! Pre-World War One Infantry Unit Names Neil Leckie (3/68)

With the commencement of the centenaries of WW1 activities, in the last twelve months or so a lot of

people have been carrying out research into family members who served in WW1. Many are finding a lot

of variation in the names of the Pre-WW1 Militia Units that the family member served in eg Bob Willey

wrote a book for the Drysdale community named ‘The Drydsale Boys and One Girl’. The book

summarized the War Service of each of the Drysdale boys, and one girl, from the local Honour Boards

who served in WW1. The Drysdale Boys listed various names for the unit that they had previously served

in on their Attestation Forms: 69th

Battalion, 69th

Infantry Battalion or 69th

Regiment. Some even used the

correct name: 69th

Infantry.

To understand the names of the pre-war militia units it is necessary to go back to 1911. In that year

Compulsory Military Service was introduced in Australia. All boys who turned 17 years of age in 1911

and lived within 5 miles of a militia depot had to join the Senior Cadets. This meant that they had to

undertake 96 hours of annual training comprising four 4-hour (full-day) ‘drills’, 12 half-day (two hours)

‘drills’ and 24 night (one hour) ‘drills’. During these ‘drills’ they were trained in military drill, physical

training, rifle shooting and undertook some field training. Senior Cadets were attached to their local

militia unit as Regimental Cadets. In July 1912 those boys, who now turned 18, were transferred into the

militia where they were to serve until they turned 26.

Also in July 1912 the new militia system was commenced. The full Cadet system commenced with boys

12-14 becoming School Cadets and those 14-17 becoming the Senior Cadets. The infantry units were

revamped and given a new name such as the 66th

Infantry. The 66th

Infantry was based in Castlemaine

and when Territorial Titles were added in 1913/14 the unit became 66th

(Mount Alexander) Infantry. In

1912 Geelong came under command of Ballarat’s 70th

Infantry, however, in 1915 Geelong’s own unit

was formed: the 69th

Infantry. For whatever reason the 69th

Infantry, like a number of others of the 93

planned Infantry Units, never received a Territorial Title.

If members are researching their family World War One history, be aware that the unit that their relative

served in may be listed incorrectly. It is difficult to ‘Google’ a site where a correct list of the unit names

can be found. A good ‘hard copy’ reference in Ian Kuring’s ‘Redcoat to Cams’ book on the history of the

Australian Infantry. One website that lists the unit names is:

http://alh-research.tripod.com/militia.htm look for: Australian Infantry Regimental List for 1914

Be aware that this list shows all units not used or without a Territorial Title as ‘Infantry Regiment

(Vacant). (Note: The word Regiment should not be there!)

If a number is used on a WW1 Attestation Forms and shows on the website as Vacant, then that unit

would not have a Territorial Title eg 72nd

Infantry.

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From the Internet: The Government Agricultural Training Farm, Scheyville

On 21st April 1911 the first twelve migrant

boys arrived from England to begin their

agricultural training at Scheyville Farm. The

‘Dreadnought Fund’ established the farm meet

the demand for trained agricultural workers in

the State of NSW. Between 1911 and

1939 over 5,500 boys were brought out from

England. In 1913 the name of the farm was

proclaimed as the Government Agricultural

Training Farm, Scheyville. If you would like

to see more photographs of the ‘Training

Farm’ please visit: Photo Investigator at

http://investigator.records.nsw.gov.au/

Photographs of all sorts of areas of interest are

available on the Website.

Boy’s Toys

In Edition 2 of 2014 we showed 3/68

Barry Anderson’s Jaguar. After a

protracted 3 month gearbox and

chassis modification, the Jaguar is

finished and back on the road! Barry is

now having some fun driving it

around.

If you are heading down the South

Coast from Sydney to the Bateman’s

Bay area, contact Barry (through the

OTU Website) and I am sure he would

love to take you for a ride in real style.

Expanding Your Horizons in Career Transition Peter Whitelaw (3/66)

After selling my business 6 years ago, I described my situation as ‘semi-retired’, with occasional paid

consulting assignments and some unpaid volunteer roles. In reality I have been frustrated with a feeling of

isolation and a lack of purpose. I also observe that many of my peers in the 55 to 75 age group feel

similarly as they transition out of their main-stream, full-time careers. We have a wealth of knowledge

and experience, but it seems that not too many employers (or contracting firms) are interested in us older

workers as part-timers. This can create a void in a person’s life that may not be easily filled with

retirement activities. I do note that many others do find enough engagement in travel, hobbies, sports etc.

In my search for answers I discovered Encore (http://encore.org/) in the USA about two years ago and

have observed it grow successfully. Encore is an organisation with a mission of “building a movement to

tap the skills and experience of those in midlife and beyond to improve communities and the world”.

They are now at a point where they want to connect with “Social Purpose Organisations” in Australia.

It occurred to me that we could set up such an organisation that aims to fulfil two main objectives:

1. Assist capable people in the 55 to 75 age group to redefine their directions in career transition

with the aim of engaging in meaningful work and projects. Some could identify a new career and

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paid employment, others may identify not-for-profit organisations that will utilise their specific

skills.

2. Encourage participants to become “fellows” in which they submit a comprehensive business

plan for a social-benefit project they are passionate about for consideration. If accepted, they are

likely to be matched with a sponsor (being a corporate, benevolent foundation or government

organisation). Their project can be anywhere in the world and any type of project, including

working with existing aid agencies or similar organisations.

The first step in creating this new organisation is to establish one or more Encore Transition Groups.

These are groups of up to 12 people who agree to meet on a regular basis (fortnightly or monthly) to work

their way through several structured discussions and exercises guided by a facilitator. These follow the

steps in the Encore Career Handbook (http://encore.org/encore-career-handbook/). The program can take

6 to 12 months.

Some examples of social purpose projects:

Charles Fletcher Founder and CEO, SpiritHorse International. Once a telecom exec, he has

created a global network of therapeutic riding centres serving children with disabilities – free of

charge.

David Campbell Founder and Chairman, All Hands Volunteers, Inc. He is using his management

savvy to build a highly effective disaster relief organization dispatching volunteers around the

world.

Kate Williams Program Manager, Employment Immersion, Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually

Impaired. After losing her sight, she is forging a new path by helping blind people combat

discrimination and find jobs.

This is one of mine:

Peter Whitelaw chaired the Gallipoli Oaks Project committee for the National Trust of Australia

(Victoria). The Gallipoli Oaks project propagated approx. 700 unique oak trees from trees grown from

acorns sent home by an Australian soldier at Gallipoli in 1914. The trees are being planted, with

appropriate ceremonies and educational resources, in primary schools throughout Victoria. The project

has had the support of government, the RSL, educators, horticulturists, growers and many other

organisations and individuals. www.gallipolioaks.org

If you are interested in participating in the first OTU Transition Group with Peter Whitelaw as

facilitator please contact me at peter@peterwhitelaw.com.au. Apart for about $25 for the Encore

Career Handbook, there is no cost.

Service Records and Privacy John Lowis (2/69)

John, in his role of Vice President Defence Force Welfare Association Qld Branch Inc forwarded

information on changes to public access of Personal Records held at the National Archives:

In an important ruling for the ex-service community earlier this year, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal

(AAT) has ruled that personal confidential information included in former ADF members’ departmental

personal files will no longer be freely available to members of the general public.

It is a routine practice of the Defence Department to pass all personal files of former ADF members to the

National Archives (NAA) after discharge. In early 2010 the Defence Force Welfare Association (DFWA)

wrote to the NAA because we discovered it was the practice of the NAA to make available to the general

public the service records of former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) during the “open

access period” as defined in the Archives Act 1983. This initial letter began a string of correspondence to

the relevant Government Ministers seeking a resolution of what we saw as a major breach of privacy

against former servicemen and women.

33

The trigger for our concern was a specific case which revealed that not only were the details of the ex-

member’s service history (such as dates of enlistment and discharge, promotions, service postings and

duties performed in such postings) supplied by NAA, but also personal details such as confidential

performance reports and medical history records. This was done without any reference whatsoever to the

ex-serviceman concerned. In essence the practice of the NAA meant that any member of the public, upon

payment of the prescribed fee, could obtain a copy of the entire service record of a former ADF member

where that record is in the open access period i.e. after the passage of (now) 20 years from lodgement. To

make matters worse it was our understanding that while NAA, under the “open access period” rule, could

make available to the public all such personal and private records of an ADF member or ex-member, it

would not reveal the identity of any person who made application for access to such records, nor did it

appear that NAA had any interest in, or control over the purpose for which those records would be used.

There was clearly a gross imbalance of privacy interests in operation.

In 2013 the NAA sought our assistance in restricting the range of information that could be accessed by

the general public. We were given examples of the range and type of information the NAA felt was

releasable under the Act. Even this information was found to be inappropriate for release as the files

contained information that, apart from the expectation that it would not be publicly released by virtue of

its security classification, provided ready access to personal and family details that could in some

circumstances represent a risk to the security of family members of the person concerned. Details of

security gradings, intelligence (intellectual) assessment outcomes and performance reports as well as what

really should be classified as medical records were included as well. The potential to damage and

undermine the person’s professional reputation was also there.

The NAA accepted that this information should not be publicly released and the DFWA National

President was asked to provide evidence in support of the restriction of release of this personal

information to the AAT hearing. As mentioned above the AAT accepted our position and agreed that the

restrictions we asked for were reasonable and allowable within the Act.

HELP NEEDED

The Class 2/65 photograph shown is labelled as Graham Ackland. Ric

Campbell has spoken to Graham and Graham stated ‘That’s not me!’

Ric has a feeling the Cadet’s name was Graham/Graeme. There

weren’t Graduates Booklets with photographs produced for the1965

and 1966 classes, so we can’t use such a resource to check. Grahame

Loadsman was the only other Graham/Graeme to graduate with Class

2/65. However, if the Cadet in the photo ‘Repeated’ then it could have

been Graham Gibbons, Graeme Parker or Graeme Thomson (1/66).

Help is needed to identify the Cadet and correct the photograph label.

Book/Magazine/Website Reviews

University of NSW Canberra launches the ‘Australia’s Vietnam War’ Website Barry Smith (2/65)

2782315 Barry Langham Smith graduated from

Scheyville on 8th

April 1966. He served on after his NS

was completed and was in Vietnam with the 1st

Australian Civil Affairs Unit from 18th

June 1969 until

18th

June 1970. Nearly 50 years after OTU, one of the

things Barry is involved in these days is research on

Australian involvement in Vietnam, as part of a team at

the ADFA (Canberra) campus of the UNSW.

The University of NSW Canberra launched its new

‘Australia’s Vietnam War’ website on Thursday 27 May 2015 - https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au

34

The website displays the details of 4,665 combat incidents recorded in “After Action reports involving

Australian and New Zealand troops from the 1st Australian Task Force in Vietnam in the 1960s and 70s.

Detailed information on every one of these incidents has been uploaded onto an interactive Battle Map.

Vietnam Veterans can access the details of individual combat incidents they were involved in, and upload

their recollections, photographs and other digital material to form an expanding archive of details about

the campaign. Researchers and others can study the course of the campaign using the website.

Visitors can filter information using fields such as date, unit, operation name and casualty count.

Powerful analytical tools include graphs to examine, for example, the causes of casualties suffered by a

particular unit. Mapping overlays allow visitors to visualize trends and concentrations such as the areas of

the highest concentrations of land mine incidents. Authentic Vietnam War-era military maps provide the

context necessary to appreciate the plotted incidents, while present-day maps make it easier for people to

plan visits to battlefield sites.

Vietnam Veterans have already responded strongly to the site with many veterans already having

uploaded information about their personal experiences. In four weeks of trialling before the formal

launch on 27 May, the site was visited by viewers in Australia, New Zealand, the USA, United Kingdom,

and other countries. Since the formal launch, the site has received over 10,000 (June 2015) hits from

around the world.

The launch on 27 May was Phase 1 of the site. Phase 2 is planned for launch in mid-2016 including the

addition of information about the 1 RAR battalion group, 1 ALSG, AATTV, RAN operations, RAAF

operations, the Australian Civil Affairs effort and social data relating to each of the villages in the former

Phuoc Tuy Province. It is also hoped to add photographs and biographical details of each of the

Australians and New Zealanders who died in the Vietnam War.

Note: The incident notes recorded on the site are from ‘After Action Reports’ and other official records

but not from Operation Logs. A major purpose of the site is for veterans to add additional information to

create a fuller record; and this is what makes the site important. Already a number of veterans have

added information to the site, adding to the knowledge of particular incidents.

While the following information is not exhaustive, visitors can use it to gain initial familiarity with the

site.

Go to the Battle Map. At top right hand corner are several boxes. Choose the “three layered maps box” (looks

like red polka dots). This controls map displays. Some are of modern day Vietnam. An overlay “Military

maps” superimposes the old map as we knew it back then. Play with the box contents to see what you get by

“Clustered” vs “Individual markers”. Watch the effect on the Battle Map.

At top left of screen are several filters. Play with these. As an example, click on the box “Units involved”.

Under “Enter a search term”, type in a unit name. If Infantry, enter down to company level. When you select

unit name from pop-up box, click “Apply filter”. All incidents recorded involving that unit will now be

displayed on the Battle Map. Click on individual red markers and see what information comes up. Then click

on “Incident details”. When you are on this page, this is where site visitors can add additional information not

previously recorded.

There are other filters to identify individual actions – see for example under “Operation Name”. Play with other

filters to see the range of data available.

Important: In the “Filters” area, click “Clear” to get back to the main Battle Map without current filters

affecting what you look at next.

At the very bottom of the screen is a time line. This takes a bit of playing with, but when you get the hang of it,

is very useful. An example to start: In the map box at top right, set the screen to “Individual markers”. Then,

on the time line at screen bottom, use click and drag to drag the right hand limit of the time line across to

somewhere near the left side. At bottom right, click the upward arrow and in the new area that appears, click

“6 months”. At right hand side, click the downward arrow, then click the right hand arrow at extreme bottom

right. Watch the battle map which should now be showing only those contacts in the period appearing in the

moving time line at the bottom – the red markers come and go. You can isolate your search down to individual

days, or weeks or whatever you want. If you have filters and charts open, this time line applies to the

information you have up.

35

The Cost of Freedom Warren Campbell (1/66)

Freedom is never won without cost! Warren Campbell has compiled a book on the history of many of the

battles, facts and figures on the wars that Australians have fought in and added the traditional poems that

the ‘Diggers’ knew. A worthwhile reference for those with a military interest. Available by a ‘Google’

search!

Vietnam: The First to Fight

The AWM’s quarterly magazine Wartime Issue 72, Spring 2015, features an article marking the 50th

Anniversary of the deployment of 1 RAR to Vietnam in 1965. Bob Breen summaries the first year of

combat operations by Australian forces and how, on arrival in Vietnam, the battalion group was

underequipped and undertrained to the extent that battalion members had not practiced firing their

weapons in tactical settings. Forward scouts carried the WW2 Owen sub-machine gun, boots and clothing

fell apart and signallers used underpowered and unreliable radios. Within weeks the battalion had plugged

into the American logistics system and were carrying new M26 Grenades, M72 light anti-tank weapons,

M79 Grenade Launchers and scouts were using the new M16 Automatic Rifles.

During that first ‘tour’, 1 RAR lost 19 men killed and 114 wounded, but had accounted for 128 confirmed

enemy killed and 130 unconfirmed ‘kills’. In addition they had captured 350 men identified as Viet

Cong.

The Australian Army Campaign Series

Since 2005 the Australian Army has, in co-operation with the Australian Army History Unit, been

publishing its Australian Army Campaign Series of books. The books are:

No. 1 The Battle of Crete

No 2. The Western Desert Campaign

No 3. Australian Military Operations in Vietnam

No 4. Exploring Gallipoli: An Australian Army Battlefields Guide

No 5. Malaya 1942

No 6. Wau 1942-45

No 7. Australia’s Palestine Campaign 1916-18

No 8. The Battle of Fromelles

No 9. The Battle of Bardia

No 10. The August Offensive at ANZC August 1915

No 11. The Battle of Mont St Quentin

The next book planned is: Greece February to April 1941.

The later books in the series are 180 mm wide x 250 mm high and range from 150 – 200 pages. Most

diagrams are in full-colour, however, as expected the photographs are in B&W. Buying from the best

source the books can be purchased for not much more than $20.

The latest published in the series is No 12 – The Landing at ANZAC 1915 by retired Brigadier Chris

Roberts. For those who attended the Geddes Dinner in Melbourne where Hugh Dolan spoke about his

book on Gallipoli, this book is a worthwhile read to compare and contrast two views on the start of the

ANZAC Gallipoli campaign. The book was reviewed by noted Canberra Book Editor John Donovan, a 32

year veteran of the Department of Defence and a former member of the Army Reserve. A synopsis of his

review follows:

‘Chris Roberts’ book started as a paper written at the Army Staff College in 1978 and was developed via

‘Wartime’ and AWM articles. Roberts provides a clear description of the landing and its immediate

aftermath over the next two days. He describes the limited training of the ANZAC soldiers and limited

field training of the officers at all levels who lead them. He looks at the history of the leaders to see what

experience that had and how this experience affected their performance in that period.

36

Roberts discusses the allegations of ‘landing at the wrong place’ and the effect that had, or didn’t have, on

the battle. He looks at the decisions made, or not made, by the Senior Commanders and apportions blame.

He also looks at another point of contention with the use, or non-use, of machine guns at the landing by

the Turks and the use of the artillery by both sides.’

With the aid of many diagrams showing the locations of both forces at different times, the narrative is

reasonably easy to follow. However, a fault in this book, as in many others that provide maps and

diagrams, is that some of the features mentioned in the text to which a map or diagram refer to are not

always shown on that map of diagram! (Ed.)

EMAILS TO THE EDITOR:

Sent: 17 Dec 14 From: Dick Whitaker (1/69) Subject: OTU Rugby Hall of Fame

Attended a very good OTU Christmas function on Wednesday- a cruise on Sydney Harbour organised by

the Chairman of the NSW Chapter John Bushell. Conversation with a few of the attendees revealed a fact

that I hadn't really noticed before - several had played first or second grade Rugby League/Union at the

time of their Army Service. So a possible Scheyvillian topic - The OTU Rugby Hall of Fame - a list of all

first of second grade rugby players that attended Scheyville (all classes). Bet this composite team would

be a cracker! In the meantime, Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2015.

(Ed. – Perhaps there could also be an ‘Aussie Rules’ Hall of Fame! Who is up for the challenge to

put this together?)

Sent: 13 Apr 15 From: Brent Olsen (O1/73): Subject: OCS Classes

Please don’t refer to the three OCS Wing Scheyville classes as the ‘Portsea Overflow Classes’.

‘Overflow’ has connotations of ‘not good enough’. My class, the last (1/73 OCS Wing) consisted of 33

cadets (27 serving soldiers, no marriedies and no overseas). We, to a man, consider that our 12 months at

Scheyville produced a junior officer of very high quality. Ed - An apology to any OTU/OCS ‘Scheyvillians’ who I may have offended with the word ‘Overflow’!

Sent: 31 Jul 15 From: Max Gaylard (3/68) Subject: Class 2/68 & 3/68 Dinner

Meant to drop you a note before this, to thank you for making the opportunity for Madhuri and I to join

you all at the two 'reunion' dinners in Canberra last month. They were both great fun, and for me a

priceless opportunity to catch up with comrades-in-arms such as yourself and the other 2/68 and 3/68

friends, most of whom I had not seen since then. It was also a pleasant surprise to meet again with

'Captain Kennedy' (8 May 67 – 16 Jan 69). I had always wondered what had become of him as one of the

more cerebral of our various trainers, and he seems to be have prospered and to be in good form.

HOLIDAYS - A Condo in Vung Tau Alistair Pope (4/66)

Holiday in Vung Tau, Vietnam! 45-years ago many of us served

in either Nui Dat or at 1ALSG in Vung Tau. Well, times have

changed! Vung Tau is now a modern city with high quality

apartments, good roads, great dining and many interesting places

to visit (including the Long Tan battlefield, if you so wish). In

fact, I like it so much that I live there for about half the year,

which means my condo is available for rent for the other half.

So what do you get? Every day is 30 degrees, overcast, but the

condo is fully air conditioned. It has three bedrooms on the 17th

floor with spectacular ocean views. The maid will do the laundry,

shop, cook lunch and keep the place clean. There is a motor

scooter you can use (if you kill yourself you have to replace the

scooter), but if you prefer, then it is $4.00 to town by taxi.

37

The flat has a brochure on it listing many of

the interesting things to do and places to go (a

week's stay will generally cost you 3kg extra

on the scales). Seafood is straight off the

fishing boats daily and the crabs are live

(about $5.00 each, or $10/kg). Stay home in

the cool? There are ten English movie

channels, and all the international news

channels to depress you.

Call Alistair Pope on 0419 367 726 or better

still email on alistair.pope45@bigpond.com for

prices and availability as I am in the condo for

the rest of this year.

National Network Travel and Cruise Di and Dave Sabben (1/65)

50th

Anniversary Tours of Vietnam

Tour 1: Monday 15th

August – 9 Days, 8 nights. 50th

Anniversary Long Tan Trek.

Walk the Long Tan battlefield and experience “in real time” all the significant events of the battle, on the

locations where they actually happened. Also visit the Horseshoe, the minefield, Frankie’s mine incident,

the Long Hai’s, Coral, Balmoral, Cu Chi & more.

Download the full “Trek” itinerary at:

http://www.sabben.com/longtantrek/images/2016TrekitinSOUTH.pdf

Tour 2: Tuesday 23rd

August – 13 Days, 12 nights. Decisive Battlefields of the 3 Vietnam Wars.

See Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue, the DMZ, Khe Sanh, the Vinh Moc tunnels, Hamburger Hill, the A Shau

Valley, then to Hanoi and Dien Bien Phu. We’ll discuss the LAM SON operation and the DICH VAN

war and end with a 2-night R&R at Ha Long Bay.

Download the full “Decisive Battlefields” itinerary at:

http://www.sabben.com/longtantrek/images/2016DecisiveBsNORTH.pdf

For more details contact Di on 03 9787 8888, 0412 278 888 or disabben@ozemail.com.au

Q STORE (Order through the Website)

For those who may have misplaced

their 40th

Reunion Badge or would like

one:

$5 per badge incl P&H.

“The Scheyville Experience”

$25 incl P & H.

OTU Sticker:

$1 plus $2 P & H.

Other badges:

$5 plus $4 P & H.

38

OTU ASSOCIATION

2015/16 MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL Website: www.otu.asn.au

INVOICE ABN 26 390 124 006

Please return by NLT 31 December 2015 Cheques payable to OTU Association

MAIL TO: Treasurer

OTU Association

PO Box 540

BLACK ROCK VIC 3193

CONTACT: (03) 9533 1810

rayelder45@gmail.com

Annual Subscription

July 2015 to June 2016

Donation to Youth Leadership Development

Total Cheque/Cash Enclosed

(For Direct Debit payment see below and please

remember to update our database or return this

form so that your contact details can be confirmed )

$50.00

$_______

$_______

MEMBERSHIP DETAILS UPDATE

Personal Details: I Have Retired Yes / No

Title/Rank: Work Details (If Applicable):

First Names: Position:

Last Name: Organisation:

Wife/Partner: Industry:

Address: Address:

Town/Suburb: Town/Suburb: Postcode:

State: Postcode: Work Phone:

Home Phone: Work Fax:

Personal Mobile: Work Mobile:

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Class: Any Comments:

Corps:

Regimental No:

Awards:

I am a new member:

I am a continuing member:

I am no longer interested.

Please delete me from the database: (Please Indicate)

For Office Use: You will need to know the following information to pay your

Membership using Direct Debit: Bank – National, BSB – 083 298,

Account No. 56-687-0611, Reference – Surname and/or Regt No.

Membership Drive

Please list details below of those who shared the Scheyville experience who you think may not be

current financial members of the OTU Association. We will check against current membership lists

and follow up non-members.

NAME CLASS ADDRESS EMAIL PHONE NO

1

2

3

39

STATE CHAPTER ACTIVITIES & CONTACTS:

Queensland: Owen Williamson (4/70) olwilliamson@bigpond.com or WilliamsonO@AureconHatch.com

Back-up: Stephanie Mauchlan (Mick Hart's secretary) smauchlan@clearyhoare.com.au

07 3230 5252 or Mick Hart (2/69) mhart@clearyhoare.com.au

Monthly Luncheons: 2nd

Thursday of the month

NSW: John Bushell (4/69) 0400 136 517 jb@shoehornconsulting.com.au

Monthly Luncheons 3rd

Wednesday @ Greek Athenian Restaurant, in Barrack Street

ACT: Wal Hall (2/68) 02 6288 5251 0418 659 010 walhall@ozemail.com.au

Winston Bucknall (2/68) 0408 492 405 wnbsec@bigpond.net.au

Monthly Luncheons.

Victoria: Frank Miller (4/67) 0401 140 762 millerfw@netspace.net.au

Bernie Gleeson (3/69) 0427 601 983 berjulgleeson@bigpond.com

Monthly Lunches, 2nd

Wednesday

Tasmania: Dennis Townsend (2/70) 03 6247 3892 det47@y7mail.com

Ray Williams (2/71) adaptbm@bigpond.net.au

Quarterly lunches (two in the south, two in the north) advertised by email

SA: Gary Vial (3/69) 0414 762 525 garyvial@ctmc.com.au

Advised through SA Contact List

WA: David Ward (2/66) State Chapter Chairman & Hon Treas 0417 927 146 david.ward@taxhut.com.au

Frank LeFaucheur (1/71) Lunch Co-ordinator 08 9246 2666 lefauche@iinet.net.au

Jay McDaniell (3/69): 0438 959 050 mcdaniell@ozemail.com.au

Quarterly lunches on the first Friday of the month of February, May, August and November at The

Romany Restaurant (cnr Lake & Aberdeen Streets in Northbridge). Parade time is 1300 hr. Warning-in is

needed with bookings to be confirmed C of B on the Wednesday before via email to David Ward.

Odd Shots:

Right:

No. 5 Army Pilots Course

members at Ettomogah

Pub, Maroochydore:

Ian Smith (OCS),

Dave Griffiths (1 and

2/69), John Lowis (2/69),

Rick Neville (RMC) &

Ned Kelly (2/69).

Left: 2/69 Tasmanian Reunion participants strapped

in and ready to go for a three hour ‘cruise’!

40

Left: OTU National (and Victorian)

Chairman Frank Miller (4/67) and members

and guests studying the big screen at the

Victorian Geddes Dinner.

Below: More aircraft parts at Scheyville

Left: NSW September lunch attendees.

Below: Victorian Golfers Chris Coates (3/71),

Alasdair Coates – longest drive 15th

hole,

Peter Hateley (2/71) & Brad Hateley

Left: Ken Waller

(2/72) with the OTU

Banner at the WA

Chapter Friday 13th

(November) Lunch.

Right: From the

OTU Galleries: Don

Ramsay (4/67)

having his pips

pinned on by his

wife Helen.