NASHONEWS

Feature Stories:

Avenue of Honour p1 President's Report p2 Treasurer's Report p3

Issue No 113 September 2013

NASHONEWS

NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATION OF AUST (QLD) INC.

DirectoryState Management

CommitteePatron:Major-General Kevin Cooke AO RFD ED (Ret'd)President:Alex Garlin 0754 465 210 0417 621 411Vice-President:Warren Cockburn OAM 07 416 217 93 0418 192 821Secretary:Marie Hooper 07 416 277 60

Treasurer:Neal Freier 0754 769 132 0427 000 408Assistant Treasurer:Barry Loose 0734086103Administration Manager:Tony Stevenson 07 3397 7512State Welfare Officer:Bruce Reedman 07 3488 0557 0418 333 850State Chaplain:Lt. Col. Canon Rev.d Sandy Marshall OAM RFD (Retd) 07 3348 8866Merchandise Officer:Graham Bird 07 3200 0446Editor Nasho News:Warren Hegarty OAM 0747 795 590 0419 709 981Editor Branch NewsMedia Officer:Vinc Crowley 07 4779 9460 0428 193 076Minutes Secretary:John Hardy 07 408 541 54 0408 939 910 Membership Officers:Jim and Judy Woodford 07 3822 7009

State OfficeEric Sivell Park, 171 Boundary Road, Camp Hill, Brisbane 4152Office Hours: 9.00am to 1.00pmMonday, Tuesday, Thursday, FridayPhone (07) 3324 1277 Fax (07) 3397 0424Email: officeadmin@nashoqld.org.auMail to: National Servicemen's AssociationP.O. Box 7014 Holland Park East Qld 4121Web: www.nashoqld.org.auNominal Roll/WebmasterAlex Garlin 07 5446 5210 president@nashoqld.org.auNational Website: www.nashoaustralia.org.au

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMERThe material contained in this publication is in the nature of general comment only, and neither purports, nor is intended, to be advice on any particular matter. Readers should not act or rely upon any matter or information contained or implied by this publication, without taking appropriate professional advice which relates specifically to their particular circumstances. The publishers and authors expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person whether an Association member or not, who acts or fails to act as a consequence of reliance upon the whole or part of the publication. Views expressed in any Editorial may not necessarily be those views held by the Management Committee.

Official NSAA Merchandise

OFFICIAL NSAA MERCHANDISE Beret $32Beret Badge – Pewter $5.50Beret Badge – Silver Six Sided Logo $20Book – 20 Year History of the NSAA 1987 to 2007 $25Caps Embroidered with Nasho Logo $17.50Coffee Cup with Nasho Logo $ 9.00Flag – Association Logo White Full Size (6'x3') $180Flag – Association Logo White small size (hand waver) $12.50Lapel Badge – Association Blue $5.50Lapel Badge – Navy, Army or Air Force $6.50Lapel Badge – Tri-service $6.50Medals Full Size Unmounted Swing CourtADM $18 $22.50 $27.50ANSM $18 $22.50 $27.50Duo ADM+ANSM $36 $45 $55Miniatures Unmounted Swing CourtADM $12 $16.50 $21ANSM $12 $16.50 $21Duo $24 $33 $42Medal Ribbon bar with ADM+ANSM medal ribbons $12Necktie with Nasho Logo $33.50Nasho Pocket Patch – Bullion Thread – Red $36Nasho Pocket Patch – Queensland Red Logo $10Nasho Port $13.50Nasho Key Rings Acrylic $4.50Nasho Wattle Key Rings $10Number plate covers ‘I Am a Nasho’ $22Shirts – Chambray short or long sleeves S M L XL XXL (add $3 for XXXL size) $36Shirts – Polo White or Maroon S M L XL XXL (add $3 for XXXL size) $31Stubby Holder with Nasho Logo $5.50Video – 50 year anniversary celebrations $5Video – Last March Out at Wacol $5Wall Plaque – 6 sided Nasho Logo on Timber $42.50Pay by Credit Card – add $1.00

Front Cover"Avenue of Honour"

Youngaburra(See Story opposite Page)

STOP PRESSNEW BRANCH OPENED 6-8-2013The Deception Bay and Peninsula

DistrictNational Servicemen’s Association

of Australia (Qld) Inc President: Leo KalinowskiVice President: Bill NewtonSecretary/Treasurer: Heather DonaghueCommittee: Arthur Calaghan Gordon TongPadre: Father Phil Stewart

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‘Avenue of Honour’, Yungaburra(A memorial to diggers killed in Afghanistan)

Australia’s newest war memorial has opened in far north Queensland to honour the 40 diggers who have been killed in Afghanistan.The concept for the idea is that of the Tableland Branch NSAA and came together as a matter of fate. The Branch Patron Ray Byrnes and Boyd McQueen organise the Anzac Day town service each year for the community of Yungaburra. Boyd invited fellow member John Hardy to deliver the Anzac Day address last year.During John’s address, he challenged the community to construct an Avenue of Honour as a living memorial to those Australian soldiers killed in Afghanistan. Mention was made of Yungaburra soldier Private Ben Chuck, one of three commandos killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan in 2010. Unbeknown to John, Ben’s mother was present at the ceremony and came forward later to lay a wreath in memory of her fallen son. She later relayed the idea to her husband Gordon on his return from the 2nd Commando Regiment Anzac Day service at Holsworthy.Gordon contacted John and the project started with humble beginnings but then grew driven by the enthusiasm of firstly the region, the state, and then national interest. Ben’s family tirelessly campaigning to raise the $300,000 needed to build the memorial of national significance and expectations were to deliver something of a world standard. The avenue stretches about 350 metres along a peninsula on the banks of Lake Tinaroo, with a backdrop of water and mountains. The Avenue follows the path of fallen Commando Ben Chuck’s gun carriage. It symbolises the ‘final journey home’ of the Fallen and preserves forever the gratitude and respect the Nation bestows on all those to whom we owe a debt that can never be repaid. There are about 70 Illawarra flame trees planted and in the years to come they will flower for three or four months of the year, specifically around Remembrance Day in November.The feature of the Avenue there is a 2.6 metre-high memorial made of beaten steel by a local firm in Cairns in the shape of two beautiful wings; one wing is substantially damaged on purpose. The symbolism there is to represent undaunted spirit, which it is believed encompasses what these men go to war with. Complimenting the memorial is a shade structure symbolising a bird in flight that has just won a major national design award.There are plaques for the fallen soldiers on an honour board and a monument for the 5 bomb detection dogs killed while in service. A lot of the returned servicemen, particularly from this conflict with both internal and external injuries, are now choosing to come here and

enjoy the calm, the tranquillity, and reflect on their mates and themselves.Key contributors to the project included all levels of government and the RSL, as well as the local community. The Tableland Nashos literally threw their weight behind the project both financially and physically. The Branch contributed $1,000 and both members and supporters participated in working bees laying turf in preparation for the opening. Member Frank Kennett said that he undertook the same task in his National Service days at Wacol by laying turf on the oval at Wacol in First Intake 1953. The Cairns Branch also contributed $1,000 to sponsor a tree.Five thousands people attended the opening of the Avenue on 22 June with the memorial being formally opened during a ceremony attended by Defence chief General David Hurley, Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Opposition Leader Tony Abbott. Victoria Cross recipient Corporal Ben Roberts-Smith urged people to remember the impact war has on the soldiers who do return home. The service featured a parachute flag drop, pigeon release closing with a Blackhawk flypast along the axis of the Avenue. The opening proved to be very emotional for all attending and was televised nationwide. There will be ongoing fundraising for the Avenue for the ongoing maintenance and development of the Avenue. In light of his experience with Tolga’s WWII Rocky Creek War Memorial Park, SMC member John Hardy has been approached to serve on the committee involved with this responsibility.Since its opening, the Avenue attracts a daily flow of national and international visitors. Members of the Tableland Branch NSAA never expected that their idea could catch the imagination of so many and develop into a memorial of national significance.Frank Kennett (80) demonstrating to Branch President Des Nella and Tim Webster-Young how to lay turf. He acquired this skill in his National Service days when laying turf on the oval at Wacol during the First Intake 1953.

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PRESIDENT’S REPORTI would like to thank the Members of the various Branches that I and the Executive have attended in the past three months.

We have attended Branch meetings at Bundaberg, South Burnett, Caboolture and Ipswich and West Moreton and hope to be able to attend several more Branch meetings and activities during the course of this year.

As part of the promise of open governance of the Association an executive meeting was held at Kingaroy.

My sincere congratulations are extended to our Editor, Warren Hegarty who has just been awarded the OAM. I am confident those who know Warren will agree he is very deserving of this award.

His untiring efforts towards the Association have not gone un-noticed. We now have three OAM Members on the SMC Committee which is a great achievement for this Association.

During our visit to the Bundaberg members we were alerted to the serious shortage of operating funds of their Branch.

This was the result of the heavy expenses they encountered from the recent flooding of their city. During our visit to the Ipswich Branch, we outlined the problems Bundaberg is experiencing due to the costs incurred with the two major floods this year and that they are unable to sell ANZAC Day merchandise to build up their welfare funds.

Members of the Ipswich & West Moreton Branch made a very generous donation of $2000 to assist the Bundaberg Branch.

The SMC appointed the following people to form the Committee to provide advice to the members regarding the future of the Association – Len Matthews (Pine Rivers), Leo Camm (Toowoomba), Eric Shaw (Redlands), Jim Kingston (South Burnett) together with John Hardy and Vince Crowley from the State Management Committee.

We have held discussions with Dukehill Health Care regarding a Medical Bracelet that can contain an extensive amount of information regarding your medical history.

The functioning of this bracelet is still under discussion and I am hopeful I will have good news and be able to make a presentation at the Rockhampton Conference in September.

I am pleased to report that a meeting to form a new Branch of the Association will be held on the 6th August. This proposed Branch will look after

members living in the Burpengary, Morayfield and surrounding areas. We are also pleased to inform you that the membership of our Association continues to grow.

Padre Sandy Marshall conducted an excellent Church Service at Wacol as part of National Service Induction Day celebrations.

The Service was well attended with many Branches represented and members enjoyed a great day of camaraderie.

I am pleased to report that the management of the Association is being conducted by a united, happy and enthusiastic group of people.

This is providing you with a defined plan for the future and I would like to thank all the members of the management team and their partners for their support and efforts.

Until next time stay healthy and happy.

Regards

Alex

Acknowledgement The National Servicemen’s Association of Australia (Qld) Inc, sincerely thanks Geoff Vaughan and Steve Arndell, proprietors of Superway for their generosity in donating their time, materials and expertise in the treatment of the Termite Infestations in the Buildings at the Wacol Heritage Precinct.

We thoroughly recommend them to You

PAGE 3

TREASURER’S REPORTThis is my second report for the Nasho News and before I begin I want to publicly congratulate our Editor, Warren Hegarty on being awarded the OAM. Those of you who have had the privilege of knowing Warren will understand why he was awarded this honour. His unselfish work for the National Servicemen’s Association alone stands out – particularly his leadership for the recent very successful 60th Reunion in Townsville where he did it without any assistance from the previous executive.I must say that things have slowed down to a gallop since my last report and thank goodness for that. I have things pretty well sorted but I have to attend the National conference in Canberra in early September and then travel to Rockhampton the following week for our General Meeting. All that preparation is extra work so whilst I am as busy as a one-arm bricklayer in Beirut I am content and happy with the support I am receiving from this present State Management Committee.I mentioned in my last report I had hoped to have a budget prepared for this issue of the Nasho News, but that just wasn’t possible and I am pondering as to whether I should just continue on keeping a tight rein on spending or try to do a mini budget for the remaining months. Whichever way it goes, there will be a budget next year. We should have our Grant from the Anzac Day Committee plus a nice little surprise from Metroplex later this year. I am confident this will occur so we will be starting off with a clean slate and no mess to clean up. Regarding our finances, I presented a Balance Sheet as at the 30th June at our last SMC meeting In brief we had $25,653.57 in our three operational accounts and $115,517.61 in our investment accounts. We had discussed and approved running a state raffle which excited me (financially) but because of the sudden illness of one of our dearest members that project had to be put off until next year. I mentioned in my last report that I had submitted an application for a Grant from the Anzac Day Committee. They have acknowledged my application and I will not know just how much money we will receive until about October/November.One other duty I have as Treasurer is to submit a BAS return to the Taxation Office every three months. These things are very time consuming and a real pain to complete but the upside is for the three I have done so far this year we have had a refund of several thousand dollars each time and

that puts a smile on my face. Alex, our President, and I have been in discussions with some people about presenting a Medical Bracelet to all Nashos at a discounted price whereby each Branch and the State would benefit financially. The whole concept is a great idea and could save your life. We had hoped to have a presentation at our General Meeting in Rockhampton but we have had to put it on hold because I found difficulties I was not happy with when I tested it. Alex organized an Induction Day Service in our chapel at Wacol on Sunday 28th. July. I was concerned about costs because a two course meal was included. Besides having the best day ever at Wacol, we came out square financially. We conducted a raffle with a run-down of ten prizes. Caboolture donated a $50 voucher and Alex donated a dozen mixed wine. Everyone was generous, very friendly, happy and eager to participate. This really helped us to keep ‘in the black’ and I thank everyone who participated. I again wish to thank each and every member I have spoken to for their encouragement and support. Life is sweet, particularly when you are associated with lovely people. I look forward to meeting you in Rockhampton.Keep smiling – there just might be a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow! Neal Freier(State Treasurer)

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GUIDELINES FOR NASHO NEWS ITEMS Those Branches who have Emailing facilities it is preferred that you send your News items and photos in via this method. This should help maintain the content and save typing errors that can occur from time to time. Remember though that it is the prerogative of the Editor to reduce or amend any article when it is including in the newsletter. When doing so there is a procedure we recommend you follow:

1. All items should be sent to both the following email addresses as recommended in the Nasho News. vincecrowley@westnet.com.au and whega2@futureweb.com.au

2. The article should be no more than one third of a page (200-250 words). This allows every branch to have a space. In some cases there will be allowances for more but this is not standard.

3. Photos should be in Jpeg format only. (maximum 2x) If you are scanning printed photos then make sure that the scanner is set to “Jpeg” as opposed to the other formats

4. Send photos as separate attachments and not embedded in the document.

5. The preferred format for documents is WORD

Please Note Any questions concerning items for inclusion in the newsletters should be directed to the Editor/s AND NOT THE President/Secretary/Office. Most important is that you keep both the Editor and Office informed of any change in any details and particularly email addresses, times and Venues. DO NOT SEND A HARD COPY IF YOU ARE EMAILING AS THIS PRODUCES UNNECESSARY DUPLICATION For any Branch that does not have access to a computer then they can submit their items via the mailing system as usual, with any photos supplied to be on photographic paper to the Editor. In all cases the closing date system is to stay in place, so that any mail received after the mail delivery on that date will only be considered as a possible inclusion in the next issue if the items are relevant and space permits. Any items faxed should not include photos because these cannot be inserted. Items should be where possible relevant to the time and of interest to other Branches. If you have something happening in your Branch let us know. Other members may be in your district at the time and may like to attend. Also be aware that the closing date is on the average 3 weeks earlier than delivery of the newsletter and is noted on the top of Branch News and any article including events during this time should be in the past tense if included. If you have any questions regarding these changes please contact the Assistant Editor (Branch News) on 4779 9460 or vincecrowley@westnet.com.au. We welcome your comments as long as they are constructive and would ask that you let us know if you feel something is not correct, if we don’t know we can’t fix it. If you have Photographs that you consider suitable for the front or back of the Nasho News please send them in and if we agree we will use them. There has been mention of some Branch news not being printed in the last issue, I can assure you we printed everything that was received or given to us by the due date in its entirety. Please keep your news and views coming. Regards

Warren  

PAGE 5

Local Businesses Ask Residents To Raise Their Stubby Cooler For Cancer Awareness

Some of Queensland’s most well-known and respected funeral directors and family services managers have come together to try and break the world record for the largest stubby cooler collection. The world record for the largest stubby cooler collection is currently held by John Lane of the Hotel Beverly, Beverley, Western Australia who has collected more than 516 stubby coolers.Davina Bambrick, InvoCare’s QLD General Manager Funerals, is certain with the help of local communities and her colleagues this record can be smashed and, at the same time, raise much needed awareness and money for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.“Most of us have a stubby holder lurking in a drawer or at the back of a cupboard that we were given as a Christmas or Birthday present and rarely use,” said Davina Bambrick, InvoCare’s QLD General Manager, Funerals.“So we are asking people to donate them, along with a gold coin, to help raise awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.”Prostate cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in Queensland men, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer, with around 3600 Queensland men being diagnosed each year. This equates to one in seven men in Queensland being diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 75.“Unfortunately more Australian men die from prostate cancer than women do from breast cancer each year mainly due to the fact that they feel less informed about the disease and as a result symptoms are often overlooked,” said Davina Bambrick.“We’re hoping that beating the world record for a stubby cooler collection is a fun yet tangible way

of ensuring fewer of our loved ones fall prey to this dreadful disease.”

To help raise the number of men who feel informed about prostate cancer and to help participating funeral homes, cemeteries, crematoria beat the stubby cooler world record- please drop off your stubby cooler and gold coin at any time during normal business hours between now and September.

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Participating Funeral Directors Suburb Name Address

Aspley Metropolitan Funerals 782 Zillmere Road Beaudesert Beaudesert Funerals 6 Telemon Street Bridgeman Downs Albany Creek Memorial Park 400 Albany Creek Road

Cairns Burkin Svendsens Funerals 411 Mulgrave Road Cleveland Metropolitan Funerals 127 Russell Street Gatton Gatton Funerals 8 Crescent Street Holland Park Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens 329 Nursery Road Mackay City Funerals 105 - 107 Sydney Street Mt Gravatt Metropolitan Funerals 224 Newnham Road Nambour Drysdale Funerals 33 National Park Road Nerang Somerville Funerals Nerang-Broadbeach Road

Allambe Memorial Park 129 Nerang Broadbeach Road Petrie Metropolitan Funerals 1 Young Street Redcliffe Metropolitan Funerals 174 Anzac Avenue

Robina Somerville Funerals Suite 7 Easy T Medical Centre, Cnr Christine Av and Scottsdale Dr

Southport Somerville Funerals 65 Nind Street Metropolitan Funerals 44 Nind Street

Springwood Metropolitan Funerals 37 Vanessa Boulevard Tewantin Drysdale Funerals Cooroy Road Toowong Metropolitan Funerals 20A Jephson Street Wynnum Metropolitan Funerals 57 Bay Terrace

Participating Funeral Directors Suburb Name Address

Aspley Metropolitan Funerals 782 Zillmere Road Beaudesert Beaudesert Funerals 6 Telemon Street Bridgeman Downs Albany Creek Memorial Park 400 Albany Creek Road

Cairns Burkin Svendsens Funerals 411 Mulgrave Road Cleveland Metropolitan Funerals 127 Russell Street Gatton Gatton Funerals 8 Crescent Street Holland Park Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens 329 Nursery Road Mackay City Funerals 105 - 107 Sydney Street Mt Gravatt Metropolitan Funerals 224 Newnham Road Nambour Drysdale Funerals 33 National Park Road Nerang Somerville Funerals Nerang-Broadbeach Road

Allambe Memorial Park 129 Nerang Broadbeach Road Petrie Metropolitan Funerals 1 Young Street Redcliffe Metropolitan Funerals 174 Anzac Avenue

Robina Somerville Funerals Suite 7 Easy T Medical Centre, Cnr Christine Av and Scottsdale Dr

Southport Somerville Funerals 65 Nind Street Metropolitan Funerals 44 Nind Street

Springwood Metropolitan Funerals 37 Vanessa Boulevard Tewantin Drysdale Funerals Cooroy Road Toowong Metropolitan Funerals 20A Jephson Street Wynnum Metropolitan Funerals 57 Bay Terrace

PAGE 7

“Reaper’ drones”BALAD AIR BASE, Iraq (AP) — The airplane is the size of a jet fighter, powered by a turboprop engine, able to fly at 300 mph and reach 50,000 feet.

It is outfitted with infrared, laser and radar target-ing, and with a ton and a half of guided bombs and missiles. The Reaper is loaded, but there is no one on board. Its pilot, as it bombs targets in Iraq, will sit at a video console 7,000 miles away in Nevada. The arrival of these outsized U.S. “hunter-killer” drones, in aviation history’s first robot attack squad-ron, will be a watershed moment even in an Iraq that has seen too many innovative ways to hunt and kill. That moment, one the Air Force will likely low-key, is expected “soon,” says the regional U.S. air com-mander. How soon? “We’re still working that,” Lt. Gen. Gary North said in an interview.

The Reaper’s first combat deployment is expected in Afghanistan, and senior Air Force officers estimate it will land in Iraq sometime between this fall and next spring. They look forward to it. “With more Reapers, I could send manned airplanes home,” North said. The Associated Press has learned that the Air Force is building a 400,000-square- foot expan-sion of the concrete ramp area now used for Preda-tor drones here at Balad, the biggest U.S. air base in Iraq, 50 miles north of Baghdad. That new staging area could be turned over to Reapers.

It is another sign that the Air Force is planning for an extended stay in Iraq, supporting Iraqi govern-ment forces in any continuing conflict, even if U.S. ground troops are drawn down in the coming years. The estimated two dozen or more unmanned MQ-1 Predators now doing surveillance over Iraq, as the 46th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, have become mainstays of the U.S. war effort, offering round-the-clock airborne “eyes” watching over road convoys, tracking night-time insurgent movements via infrared sensors, and occasionally unleashing one of their two Hellfire missiles on a target.

From about 36,000 flying hours in 2005, the Preda-tors are expected to log 66,000 hours this year over Iraq and Afghanistan. The MQ-9 Reaper, when com-pared with the 1995-vintage Predator, represents a major evolution of the unmanned aerial vehicle, or UAV. At five tons gross weight, the Reaper is four times heavier than the Predator. Its size — 36 feet long, with a 66-foot wingspan — is comparable to the profile of the Air Force’s workhorse A-10 attack plane. It can fly twice as fast and twice as high as the Predator. Most significantly, it carries many more weapons.

UNDER THE RADAR: Air Force ramps up in Iraq While the Predator is armed with two Hellfire mis-

siles, the Reaper can carry 14 of the air-to-ground weapons — or four Hellfires and two 500-pound bombs. “It’s not a recon squadron,” Col. Joe Gua-sella, operations chief for the Central Command’s air component, said of the Reapers. “It’s an attack squadron, with a lot more kinetic ability.” “Kinetic” — Pentagon argot for destructive power — is what the Air Force had in mind when it christened its new-est robot plane with a name associated with death.

“The name Reaper captures the lethal nature of this new weapon system,” Gen. T. Michael Moseley, Air Force chief of staff, said in announcing the name last September. General Atomics of San Diego has built at least nine of the MQ-9s thus far, at a cost of $69 million per set of four aircraft, with ground equipment. The Air Force’s 432nd Wing, a UAV unit formally established on May 1, is to eventually fly 60 Reapers and 160 Predators. The numbers to be assigned to Iraq and Afghanistan will be classified.

The Reaper is expected to be flown as the Preda-tor is — by a two-member team of pilot and sen-sor operator who work at computer control stations and video screens that display what the UAV “sees.” Teams at Balad, housed in a hangar beside the run-ways, perform the takeoffs and landings, and similar teams at Nevada’s Creech Air Force Base, linked to the aircraft via satellite, take over for the long hours of overflying the Iraqi landscape. American ground troops, equipped with laptops that can download re-al-time video from UAVs overhead, “want more and more of it,” said Maj. Chris Snodgrass, the Preda-tor squadron commander here. The Reaper’s speed will help. “Our problem is speed,” Snodgrass said of the 140-mph Predator. “If there are troops in con-tact, we may not get there fast enough. The Reaper will be faster and fly farther.” The new robot plane is expected to be able to stay aloft for 14 hours fully armed, watching an area and waiting for targets to emerge.

“It’s going to bring us flexibility, range, speed and persistence,” said regional commander North, “such that I will be able to work lots of areas for a long, long time.”

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LAST POST

2/774827 Baker Alan Robert Intake 3/1958 Wacol2/707553 Buckland Colin Ray Intake 0/9/1953 New Holsworthy2/711684 Burgess Robert Alfred Intake 3/1952 Parkes/Sydney1/727541 Fewin Albert Cecil Intake 2/1958 Wacol1/706205 Frankish Peter Intake 1/19531/725196 Govan Russell James Intake 1/1957 Wacol352330 Hemmings Samuel Roy Intake 19581/730352 Lang Raymond Joseph Intake 3/1959 Wacol1/706607 Leonardi Alf Intake 1/1953 Wacol 2/732719 Lovell Edward Charles (Ted) Intake 0/4/1954 Ingleburn1/735378 Macklin Russell William Intake 1969/701/700352 McCann John Joseph (Jock) Intake 1/1951 Wacol1/721769 Mills Graham Intake 2/1956 Wacol1/723154 Rider Leslie Intake 3/1956 Wacol1/707371 Sailer Des Intake 2/1953 Wacol1/722381 Schilling Errol Norman Intake 3/1956 Wacol1/715281 Thomsen Ronald Intake 1/1955 Wacol A115566 Vettiger Graham Intake 3/1954 RAAF Rathmines1/723858 Wakefield Alan Intake3/1956 Wacol1/712711 Webber Walter Intake 2/1954 Wacol2/773915 Wells Wayne Lancelot Kapooka

Bill and Margaret Newton’s Darwin Reunion April 2013The Darwin Branch of the Nashos played host to Life Member of the Association Bill Newton and his wife Margaret and eight Vietnam Nashos that Bill befriended 43 years ago at the Royal National Show. Bill while working at the Banana exhibit noticed the white strip under their chins and asked if they were Nashos, to which they answered “How did you know?”

These young Conscripts were from all southern States and Western Australia and were finalizing their training in Toowoomba before being sent to Vietnam. They were in the 104 Signal Unit Nui Dat. They wrote to the Newtons from Vietnam every week and when they returned home they went their separate ways, got married and had families, but corresponded with the Newtons on a regular basis. Twenty years ago they arranged a reunion in Welshpool Victoria to which Bill and Margaret were invited and had a great time meeting up again.

Early this year they telephoned to say they had arranged another reunion in Darwin for ANZAC Day and would Bill and Margaret join them. Bill rang Ivan Walsh a past member of Caboolture Branch and now Chairman of the Darwin North Nasho Branch informing them that they would be there for a week. The hospitality shown by the Branch was incredible with a pickup at the Airport, a trip around Darwin before dropping them off at the Motel, a welcome BBQ at the Darwin North RSL and arranging group seating at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service, a bus trip back to the Darwin North RSL for a gunfire breakfast then back to the march, as well as helpful information about Darwin and its attractions.

Bill and Margaret on behalf of the entire group would like to thank the Darwin Branch for their great hospitality and they are looking forward to another proposed reunion in Western Australia in two years time. Photo shows Bill Newton 2nd row 2nd from the right, Vietnam Nashos, members of Darwin Branch and the cook. (This is what the National Servicemen’s Association is all about Ed.)

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This edition of Branch News has gone global being edited on the Sea Princess off the coast of Costa Rica.

BAYSIDE (Meeting: 1st Tuesday each month 1300hrs. Venue Wynnum RSL)Congratulations to Nasho News Editor, Warren Hegarty, on his award of Order of Australia Medal. Well done Warren. Since the last issue of Nasho News, Bayside have continued to enjoy each other’s company. In May we went on a Bus and Tunnel Tour through our Brisbane, well worth the effort. President Russ Wiseman accompanied by Secretary Pat Dunne and Committeemen Mick Richardson and Trigger McCafferty laid a wreath on behalf of State President Alex Garlin at the Reserve Day in Anzac Square.On 16th July, twenty two members travelled to Stradbroke Island for a very enjoyable day and managed top spot a few whales swimming offshore.The Assistant Membership Officer Leon Solinis reports Bayside now has seventy six members and supporters, well on our way to our target of one hundred.

BEENLEIGH-LOGAN (Meeting 4th Monday each month 1000 hrs. Venue: Beenleigh RSL) On Monday 1st July we unveiled our new Nasho memorial stone and plaque at the Beenleigh cenotaph. The service was attended by federal, state, and local politicians along with our state administration officers who enjoyed morning tea after the ceremony. On Saturday July 20, we had a Nasho Plaque dedication at Logan Central memorial wall with the deputy mayor and the state member for Woodridge doing the unveiling. Special thanks to State Chaplain Sandy Marshall for his participation in both our dedications. After the ceremony Logan RSL put on a good BBQ lunch for us with steak, snags, salads etc., followed by pavlova sweets. Photo shows members and guests at Beenleigh dedication.

BRANCH NEWSEdited by Vince Crowley vincecrowley@westnet.com.au

Under the Privacy Act, details about the person includingBirthdays, illness and hospitalization cannot be included

to Branch News without the person’s consent.Closing date next issue is Friday November 1st folding date November 22

PAGE 10

On Tuesday, 2nd July one of our new members, Roy Hemmings, passed away. He was very popular with our RSL members who attended a large funeral service on Monday 8th. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Joan. Later that week some of our members went on a trip to Tipplers Resort on South Stradbrook together with our RSL mates; a very enjoyable days outing with steak BBQ and plenty to drink.Recent resignations have meant a big change in our BMC. Scott Bettles has his President’s job back after Peter Zeller stepped down. Jack Stacy has taken over from Kevin Egan as Treasurer and Ray Rose had to vacate Vice President’s job because of ill health, Ray Bennett took over that position. BRISBANE NORTH (Meeting: 1st Sunday of the Month 1000hours Venue: Kedron Wavell Service Club)

Brisbane North Branch has shown an increased attendance at monthly meetings following our 10th Anniversary Lunch last year which is very pleasing. A working bee took place to ensure the Wacol Chapel was looking at its best before our annual Church Parade which was well attended, members enjoyed a lunch at a local club at the completion of the service. Ken Oxenham joined us at our July meeting to show off his new wheelchair and his recently acquired operational skills. Image shows Kevin with Barry Loose and Earle Jennings. We farewelled one of our founding members, Bill Chadwick, with a Poppy Service, on the 23rd of July. Our Supporters Group has been busy organising an outing with the well know Ferryman Cruise departing from Bribie Island, cruising the Pumicestone Passage to Caloundra. Not surprising that this function was fully booked very quickly. The Christmas function is locked in for Friday 13th December and, following previous events, will be a fantastic night. The August meeting will feature a presentation relating to Financial Planning involving Superannuation into Retirement which is sure to draw a good attendance.

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CORAL COAST (Meeting: 2nd Sunday of Month 0930 hours Venue: Bowen Bowls Club)Coral Coast Nashos hosted their 9th. annual Northern Branches Re-union at the Racecourse in Bowen on Sunday 28th July, celebrating 10 years as a branch of the National Servicemen’s Assn. Australia (Qld) Inc.We were fortunate to have the State Vice President – Warren Cockburn, State Secretary Marie Hooper and State Newsletter Editor Warren Hegarty attend the function, together with Federal Member for Dawson – George Christensen, State Member for Burdekin and Patron of our branch – Mrs. Rosemary Menkins and Councilors – Dave Clark, and Andrew Wilcox. Approximately 200 Members from Gladstone, Mackay, Burdekin, and Townsville Branches helped to celebrate the occasion. The band led by Nasho Clyde Cameron, once again travelled up from Calliope to entertain the members. The day was enjoyed by all.

GLADST0NE (Meeting: 3rd Wednesday each month 1300 hours. Venue: Rocky Glen Hotel)A wonderful weekend of fellowship, friendship and fun was enjoyed by six of our members and wives when we braved the perils (and road-works) of the Bruce Highway to join with Coral Coast Nasho’s at Bowen in celebrating their 10th Anniversary, Sunday 28th July. Our very own Nasho, Clyde Cameron and his musicians added to the atmosphere and enjoyment of the day with great music and Clyde’s unforgettable lyrics. Congratulations and Happy 10th Birthday to Coral Coast branch. A great day was had by all. Unfortunately ill health prevented more of our members from attending. Every Gladstone Nasho’s birthday will be celebrated with a birthday cake at our August meeting. Our branch will join with Gladstone R.S.L. at Anzac Park for Viet Nam Vets day on 18th August. Delegates from our branch will attend the State Conference at Rockhampton in September.

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GOLD COAST SOUTH TWIN TOWN: (Meeting: 3rd Sunday, Bi Monthly even months at 10 am QLD Time) Anzac Room Twin-Towns Tweed Heads NSW)

On the 18th June Gold Coast South – Twin Towns Members met for lunch at the Chinderah Tavern at Chinderah NSW. It was a beautiful day and the food was excellent.The view across the river is outstanding, so peaceful with a real countryside outlook and yet all so close to home. We are now looking forward to the Wacol outing and then our bus trip to the War Museum and Cedar Lodge in the rain forest at “Mount Tambourine” in August.

IPSWICH WEST MORETON (Meeting: 2nd Thursday each month 07.30hrs. Venue: Ipswich RSL Services Club). Our Branch has had a busy few weeks in June/July. Executive Officers/Members attended a school assembly on Tuesday 11th June at the Ipswich State High School where President Brian Hall presented framed certificates of appreciation and a copy of Nasho News issue 112 to those students listed therein who had assisted us in the ANZAC day March. The local paper was in attendance resulting in a published report with a great photo of the President with the 9 Students. At our June Branch meeting it was great to welcome State President Alex Garlin his wife Lois and our Liaison Officer Graham Bird, State Merchandising Officer. It was great to welcome them and to so do for any other visitor from State or Branches. Sadly the Branch lost, after a long illness, one of its early Members 1/706205 Sapper Peter Frankish. At his funeral service on Friday 14th June a Poppy Service was conducted by our Chaplin, Rev Dr Donald Stewart AM with a Guard of Honour at the service completion.The Reserve Forces Day March on Saturday 29th June was successful with the largest turnout yet with representation from the Light Horse, Air Force, Jeep Club, a contingent of the Foreign Legion from Noumea plus others and of course a great company of Nashos. Thanks to all and especially visiting Nashos. Thanks also to Ipswich City Council for its sponsorship. There has to be a special recognition for Nigel Sutton and Ron Ward who always give unstintingly of their time whenever there is Parade/Service. At the RFS March they marched in step with their rifles at slope arms for in excess of two city blocks. They then stood either side of the Memorial for the entire (long) Memorial Service, key address by Captain Bob Hulme, either at ease, attention, Royal Salute or whatever was appropriate at any given time. They actually enthralled the spectators many of whom had never seen those drill moves with 30s. They were interviewed by the local press resulting in an article incorporated in a two page spread. Well done many thanks Nigel and Ron. Of course there is now an open invitation back for the RFS March next year in fact forever. In appreciation our Branch purchased a copy of the QT, framed a photo, and supplied some of the photos taken on the day with a presentation of same to each at the Church Parade at Wacol on Sunday 28th. Upcoming Services will be at Manson Park, Cemetery Road, Raceview (VP Day) on Saturday 17th (?) August at 1000hrs. Vietnam Veterans Day 17th August at 1700hrs either at Ipswich RSL Services Club or Goodna RSL Services Club. All Nashos are invited. Enjoy a coach trip to the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, City sights and Milne Bay War Museum Wednesday 25th September departing Ipswich RSL Club Nth Ipswich at 08.00hrs sharp – returning approx.1700hrs, 53 seater coach, Nashos, supporters and their partners free. Any available seats to others @ $20.00 each. 2 course lunch at South Toowoomba Bowls Club at $12,50 per person. Contact Andrew 0419 780 680, email ipswich@nashoqld.org.au or Keith 07 3202 1359, email 809tex@ecn.net.au

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NASHO TOURING CLUB. I wish that I had been well enough to attend the State AGM in March, unfortunately, I had a regular Saturday hospital appointment. The reason that I would have liked to be there is that I am told that Nev Derrington gave a very good report on our activities. As a result we received one new member and two more interested enquirers. This means that we have increased our Membership by one new member on each of our last three bivouacs. For those still interested but not yet joined our next bivouac is to Stanthorpe Top of the Town Tourist Park (phone 4681 4888) for the period 18 October to 28 October and next year it will be Kahler’s Oasis Caravan Park (phone 4661 2874) for the period 7 March to 17 March. If more information is desired please phone me on 3349 1472. Love to see all current members and any Nashos desirous of joining. Regards Don Weimer

REDLAND (Meeting: 1st Sunday each month 1000 hours Venue: Redland RSL)

A group of Redland Nashos recently enjoyed a great day out at the Ipswich Railway Workshops Museum with a guided tour of the facilities and lunch in the Workshops dining room. It was good to see that the Railway Workshops are restoring the World War 1 German tank, Mephisto. What a major effort it must have been for those diggers to bring this rather large “war trophy” from France to Brisbane almost a century ago. Most Queenslanders of our age group would remember seeing Mephisto outside the old Queensland Museum, and it is great to know that youngsters in years to come will still be able to share that experience as a result of this restoration.Our general meetings are well attended and the monthly Mess Hall dinners are still popular with members, with good attendances irrespective of the weather. Our Branch have purchased, and donated to the Redlands RSL Sub Branch, four replica Victoria Cross Medals which have been mounted and framed and are hanging in the Sub Branch foyer below the portraits of the four most recent recipients of the Victoria Cross. This year we have supported the branches of the Defence cadets in our area with donations, and have also offered support to the Mates4Mates programme. TABLELANDS (Meetings: 2nd Sunday of each month. Venue: Nasho’s shelter at the Rocky Creek War Memorial Park.)

Branch Members and Supporters attended the opening of the Yungaburra Avenue of Honour on 22 June 2013. Many families of the 39 Australian soldiers killed in Afghanistan also took the opportunity to attend the emotional service. Members may have been fortunate enough to see the live televised coverage of the event. Visitor numbers have been very high following the opening. John Hardy has been appointed to the committee that will oversee the ongoing maintenance and development of the Avenue.The three Far Northern Nasho Branches combined on 7 July, to hold a ‘Christmas in July’ lunch at the Mountain View Hotel on the picturesque Little Mulgrave River. This event was well supported by members and supporters from Cairns, Innisfail and Tableland Branches who enjoyed a hearty meal in a festive atmosphere.

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The Branch project of the replacement of WWII unit campsite markers across the Atherton Tableland draws to a close. Bill McDonald is co-ordinating production of location brochures that will be used by the various Information Centres across the Tableland. The passing of a 1956 Olympic sporting legend and Nasho, Con Verevis was recognised by members of the three Far Northern Nasho Branches at his funeral held in Cairns on 1 August. Because of his Greek-Australian heritage, Con was chosen as the first of 2,830 runners to carry the Olympic torch on the relay run between Cairns and Melbourne, between 9 and 22 November 1956. Other FNQ Nashos to participate in this relay were Tableland members Bob Chester, John Shepherd and Wally Crear, from Cairns Trevor Keeling and Keith Barrett (deceased) and from Innisfail, brothers John and Don Lowe. In later years, Con and Bob Chester ran through Atherton with the torch for the 2000 Sydney Olympics and Con participated in Sydney for the Australian leg of the 2004 Athens Torch Relay. For the 1956 selection process, runners had to be able to run 1 mile in seven minutes.

Aerial photo of Afghanistan ‘Avenue of Honour’ at the Tinaburra prior to opening on 22/6/2013 TOOWOOMBA (Meetings: 2nd Tuesday at 1900hrs; (odd months); 2nd Sunday at 1:30pm (even months); -Venue: Irish Club Hotel (Meals available before meetings).Widow’s Day Lunch At the end of May our branch treated our Nasho widows to lunch and presented three more pins to Nasho wives recently widowed. The lunch was enjoyable and a raffle held on the day raised funds for the Toowoomba Hospice. Graham Barron, representing the hospice accepted the cheque and gave a very informative talk about the setting up of the facility, and its aims and operation.Race Day Rescheduled Toowoomba Turf Club has commenced alterations to Clifford Park Racecourse. It is being converted from a “cushion” track back to a turf track. Consequently the alternative track is being used for race meetings and is not lit for night racing. The Nasho gathering at the races will now be on Saturday 23rd November and will be a daytime event. Gates will open at 11:00 am with racing starting at 12:00 noon. Instead of the usual evening meal, lunch will be served early in the proceedings. We hope all our friends from other branches as well as local Nashos will be able to attend. This year we are meeting in the J J Atkins room, so get in early as space may be a little limited compared with previous years. A bar and TAB will still be available for our use.

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Christmas Dinner This year’s Christmas get-together is scheduled for Saturday 7th December, again at the Meringandan Pub. It was a great event last year. All Nashos and partners are invited to come along. More details will be available next Nasho News.

TOWNSVILLE: (Meeting: 2nd Wednesday each month 1930 hours. Venue: Townsville R.S.L.)Our Annual 70/80 Birthday Party was held at the Townsville R.S.L. on Friday, 10th May, with some 120 Members, Friends and Guests attending. Once again a great time was had by all. The meal was great, the drinks were cold and the music and community singing was most enjoyable. There was some great prizes for our raffle and a number of our members received their OBE certificates (Over Blooming Eighty)The first of our Branch Reunions for the year commenced with a visit to the Burdekin Branch at the Caledonian Club, Ayr on SUNAY, 16th JUNE, 2013. Unfortunately, our Secretary Kyle was unable to attend due to admission to Hospital the next day for Open Heart Surgery.However, after a call from Warren, he was able to give us a salute when the Bus passed by his home in Queens Road. Morning Tea was provided on arrival by the Ladies of the Burdekin Branch and later an excellent cold Lunch and dessert. We were entertained with good music and song, Bush Poetry, Raffles and most of all friendship and camaraderie. The Burdekin Shire Mayor was in attendance and the usual visit by the Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens MP. Rosemary is a great supporter of National Service, especially the Burdekin Branch and is also the Patron. As usual time goes too quickly when you are having fun and we were back on the Bus for our journey home.

Presentation of widow’s pinsL to R Barbara Cooper, Margaret Erbacher and Kath Ott. Patron Law-rie Asgill and Branch President Leo Camm

Leo Camm presents a donation from the widow’s dinner to Graham Barron in support of the Toowoomba Branch

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ON SUNDAY, 28th JULY, 53 members and wives travelled to the Bowen Racecourse to meet up with members of the Gladstone, South Burnett, Mackay and Burdekin Branches. Morning Tea was served on arrival during which time a number of Presen-tations were made as it was the 10TH ANNIVER-SARY OF THE CORAL COAST BRANCH. Pres-entation of Certificates were made by the Member for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens MP with Federal Member for Dawson George Christiansen MP to dedicated members in recognition of their loyal service to the Branch over many years.

It was good to catch up with Members of the New State Executive Vice President Warren Cockburn and State Secretary Marie Hooper, both of whom travelled from Kingaroy for the occasion. Music and entertainment was provided by the ever popular Calliope Singers. This year due to age, the excellent meal of cold meat and salad, plus dessert was supplied by Private Caters who I believe cater for the local Bowls Club. There was plenty of Raffle Prizes on offer as usual and Townsville members collected 6 of the produce cartons. After Lunch, there was the cutting of the 10th Birthday Cake. By the time the large number of Raffles Prizes ended, it was time to board our Bus for the return journey home.

PADRE’S CORNERSometimes it’s not the words we use but the way they are used that reveals the truth within them. I believe that what you are about to read does exactly that.

“A blind boy sat on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet. He held up a sign which said: “I am blind, please help.”

There were only a few coins in the hat.

A man was walking by. He took a few coins from his pocket and dropped them into the hat. He then took the sign, turned it around, and wrote some words. He put the sign back so that everyone who walked by would see the new words. Soon the hat began to fill up. A lot more people were giving money to the blind boy. That afternoon the man who had changed the sign came to see how things were. The boy recognized his footsteps and asked, “Were you the one who changed my sign this morning? What did you write?” The man said, “I

only wrote the truth. I said what you said but in a different way.” I wrote: “Today is a beautiful day but I cannot see it. “

Both signs told people that the boy was blind. But the first sign simply said the boy was blind. The second sign told people that they were so lucky that they were not blind. Should we be surprised that the second sign was more effective?

Moral of the Story: Be thankful for what you have. Be creative. Be innovative. Think differently and positively. When life gives you a 100 reasons to cry, show life that you have 1000 reasons to smile. Face your past without regret. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear. Keep the faith and drop the fear. The most beautiful thing is to see a person smiling, and even more beautiful, is knowing that you are the reason behind it!”

NASHO NOTICEBOARDGot a reunion planned? Looking for an oldNasho mate? Want to get information on

anything? This is your page . . .

NOTICE OF DELEGATES’ MEETINGA Delegates Meeting will be held on Friday, 13th September 2014

at the Frenchville Sports Club, 105 Clifton Street, North Rockhampton. Registration will be at 0830hrs for a 0900hrs start.

The two Branch Delegates representing each Branch of the Association (either in person or by proxy) and members of the State Management Committee will be able to speak and vote at this meeting. Visitors are welcome at this meeting and may speak if acknowledged by the Chairman.

Agendas have been forwarded to all Branches and members of the SMC.Marie Hooper, State Secretary

NOTICE OF GENERAL MEETING.A General Meeting of the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia (Queensland) Inc.

will be held on Saturday, 14th September at the Frenchville Sports Club, 105 Clifton Street, North Rockhampton.

Registration will be at 0830hrs for 0900hrs start.All financial Ordinary Members, Life Subscribed and Life Members shall be entitled to

vote at this meeting either in person or by proxy.A Proxy voting form for eligible members isenclosed with this newsletter.

Proxy voting forms are to be returned to the State Office, PO Box 7014, Holland Park East 4121 before Friday, 6th September 2013.

AGENDAOpening and Welcome

Silence in Memory of Fallen Comrades and FriendsMinutes of Meeting held at Wacol on 23rd March 2013

Business arising from MinutesReports

Motions on Notice Moved Warren Hegarty Seconded Warren Cockburn

“That the Motion ‘That the draft constitution and bylaws in its present form be accepted and that the incoming Committee be requested to forward it to the appropriate authorities for consideration’ passed at the General Meeting of the Association held at the Wacol Heritage

Precinct on 23rd March 2013 be rescinded” Moved Eric Shaw Seconded Ian Gray

“That the next revision or amendment to the Constitution of the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia (Queensland) Inc. discard entirely the postal voting system for the election of members of the State Management Committee and revert to personal and proxy

voting only at the relevant AGM.”General Business

Set the Date for the next General MeetingClose

Marie Hooper, State Secretary.

NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S ASSOC(Queensland) Inc. newsletterPublIcatIon no. P.P. 444963/000003P.o. box 7014 Holland ParK eastQld, 4121

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