Formed 10th June 1989

PATRON: BRIGADIER J.J. SHELTON DSO MC

NOTEWORTHY NEWS

NEWSLETTER OF THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS ASSOCIATION INC.Website: www.aabcassociation.com.au

AABC Birthday Edition 2014 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: President – John Franklin Ph: 0407 312 035 Email: jf33@hotmail.com.au

Vice President – John (Snara) Hadlow Secretary – Kevin Noon CSM Ph: (02) 6299 9954 (H) 0414 313 566 (M) Emai: knoon@netspace.net.au Assistant Secretary – VACANT Treasurer - Jim Harper BEM Ph: 03 9776 9172 Email: shadhar@bigpond.net.au

Assistant Treasurer – Sue Baxter Ph: 0412 742 564 Email: baxterwinch@optusnet.com.au

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:

Peter Guest - 0438 428 866 Bill Honter BEM - 08 9593 2868 Neville Lloyd - 03 9789 2979 Grahame Johnson - 08 8364 7232 Pat Steer – 0418 717 174 CHAPLAIN: LTCOL DENNIS J HILLS Retd Ph: 0417423363 (M) Email: denrose@mac.com

STATE REPRESENTATIVES:

VICTORIA: Neville Lloyd Ph: 03 9789 2979

NEW SOUTH WALES: Kevin Noon Ph: 02 6299 9954

SOUTH QUEENSLAND: John Franklin Ph: (mob): 0407 312 035 Email: johnfranklin@dodo.com.au

NORTH QUEENSLAND: Scotty Laycock Ph: 07 7757 7550

TASMANIA: Colleen Harbod Ph: 03 6224 0256

SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Pat Steer Ph: 0418 717 174 Grahame Johnson Ph: 08 8364 7232

NORTHERN TERRITORY: Geoff Carter CSM Ph: 08 8932 3632

WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Bill Honter BEM Ph: 08 9593 2868

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY: Ron Bennett Ph: 0419 885 359

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Schedule of Membership Fees

The Schedule of Fees for Full Members and Associate Members as at December 2012 is shown in the following table:

Fee Amount Entrance fee (non serving) $15 Entrance fee (current serving) No fee Annual subscription (members) $35 Annual subscription (widows) $20

Fees and subscriptions can be payed by cheque or electronic transfer. For details see Treasurer’s report. Note: Members joining on or after 1 January pay the entrance fee and 50% of the annual subscription fee for that year. The membership year is 1 July to 30 June.

LAST POST

We pause a moment to remember those friends and former associates who have passed away and to appreciate their

service and contribution to military music

Cliff Morton

Roy Harbach

Ray Gallagher

Frank Poll

Allan Tedford

Eileen Gfeller

Edna Selby

Harry Jenkin

“OLD SOLDIERS NEVER DIE - THEY SIMPLY FADE AWAY!”

NOTEWORTHY 2014 DEADLINES

ANZAC EDITION 18th March

AABC BIRTHDAY EDITION 1st July

CHRISTMAS EDITION 1st November

All NOTEWORTHY NEWS contributions to

Stuart Colhoun via email: sepmc@iprimus.com.au

Or mail to:

Stuart Colhoun

5 Hammond Circuit

HOPETOUN PARK VIC 3340

The editor reserves the right to accept or reject any article submitted. Items published may be altered for economy of space and other reasons.

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A short Note………. Welcome to this edition of Noteworthy News. I hope you find it informative and enjoyable. I apologize for the delay in getting this edition out to you. After an initial delay in receiving contributions the decision was made to further delay the news letter while waiting for a report from the Basel Tattoo. On a positive note this meant I could publish any reports and pictures from the various celebrations held on the Corps birthday. I really appreciate the contributions from members for the newsletter however if they could be sent to me before the cut off date for each edition, then this will help me get the newsletter out on time. Thanks to those members who took the time to forward pictures and reports from Corps Birthday functions they attended. I’m hopeful that one day we’ll have a contribution from each of the bands to publish. As well as a Facebook page the Australian Army Band now has its own official website: http://www.army.gov.au/Our-work/Community-engagement/AAB The band pages are part of the greater Army website and contain information on The Australian Army Band, it’s history, each of the band locations, joining the band and a page of resources that include downloadable versions of the national anthem, bugle calls, The Army March and copies of the AABC journal. Best wishes from the desk.

Stuart Colhoun

From the President

I was lucky enough to pack up the four wheel drive recently and head south out of Brisbane on a 10 day road trip. One might ask why you would head in a southerly direction en route to places like Canberra and Wagga Wagga in June/July leaving behind average temperatures in the mid 20’s. Not sure myself really but I had a great trip camping on isolated river banks and catching up with old mates along the way. When I arrived in Canberra I was fortunate enough to catch up with Tony Sillcock, LTCOL Gordon Lambie (CO Australian Army Band) and a few others at the Southern Cross Club. It was good to have the opportunity to swap a few stories and relive some of the old times spent in that club 35 years ago. A visit to RMC Band the following day allowed me to spend time with the OC/Music Director MAJ Dan Hiscock and his BSM WO1 Steve Mee. It was an interesting time to visit as Dan was making preparations for the Australian Army Band’s appearance at the 2014 Basel International Tattoo. At the time of writing this report soldier musicians selected from all 11 sub units of the Australian Army Band were performing in Basel. The Association will invite Dan to submit an article for the next edition of Noteworthy News highlighting the Band’s experiences while performing there. Wagga Wagga was the next stop where I was able to help my old friend WO2 Graeme Hey, BSM Australian Army Band Kapooka, celebrate his birthday. I think there is a very good chance that Graeme will shortly join our ranks

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as his wife Michelle, who served many years as a clarinet player in Army Bands, signed the dotted line and became a member of the Association while I was there. It was a timely visit to the Home of the Soldier as Australian Army Band Kapooka was performing one of their popular Music at Midday concerts. MAJ Peter Thomas extended a kind invitation for me to attend the concert which I enjoyed very much. I will admit it felt strange sitting in the audience at Wagga Wagga’s Civic Theatre instead of being on stage. BRIG Jim Shelton would have been very pleased with the program selection featuring a few of his old favourites including ‘Harlem Nocturne’. Attending this concert triggered many fond memories of my years performing next to Andy Ryder in this theatre with the ‘Kapooka Band’. In particular it brought back memories of Dr Colin Anderson who worked tirelessly with the Band over two decades as a compere and performer in his own right. While Colin never served in the Australian Army, I feel it appropriate to mention him in this forum as he was an exceptional supporter of Army Bands and took every opportunity presented to him to promote our cause and highlight our achievements. He often bent the ears of visiting generals and politicians telling them that Army Bands provided a strong link between the community and Army. Colin, an Associate Professor of Charles Sturt University and former teacher at James Ruse Agricultural College Sydney, sadly passed away on 8 July 2014. We who knew him will be eternally grateful for his outstanding service to Army Bands. As I mentioned in the ANZAC Edition of the newsletter, 2014 is the 25th anniversary of the Australian Army Band Corps Association. I also indicated that I would write to all our state, territory and regional representatives inviting them to hold a function in their local areas in acknowledgement of this significant Association milestone. While I was in Canberra Kevin Noon and I met to discuss the most effective way to celebrate this event and subsequently letters were sent to those mentioned above. Thanks for your help with this Kevin.

I am pleased to report that as we go to print I have had confirmation from a number of areas, including Bob Keatch in Perth, Geoff Wilson in Wagga Wagga, Ron Bennett and Kevin Noon in Canberra and our Brisbane partnership that functions are being organised to celebrate the Association’s Silver Jubilee. Some functions are being combined with Bands to celebrate Corps Birthday and the formation of the Association, while others are conducting standalone events. I encourage all current and former soldier musicians to make the effort to attend these functions and enjoy catching up with old mates. For those organising these events please pass on your function details to us so we can place them on the website and FaceBook page in order to reach as many people as possible. While state based celebrations will highlight our 25th year at a local level, our annual reunion will of course set sail on Friday, 7 November 2014, taking in the wonderful sights of the South Pacific. This reunion will take place on P&O’s Pacific Jewel and promises to be a wonderful experience. Please check the Association website for up to date information on how to book for this cruise. I hope you all enjoy celebrating the 46th birthday of the AABC and the 25th anniversary of the AABC Association. Cheers JF John Franklin

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Index Last Post Page 2

From the President Page 3

Treasurer’s report Page 5

Vale Page 7

CO AAB report Page 12

Basel Tattoo Page 13

AABC Birthday - Tasmania Page 16

AABC Birthday - Perth Page 17

AABC Birthday - Brisbane Page 19

Operation Kermit Page 21

AABC Birthday - Canberra Page 23

AABC Birthday - Sydney Page 24

Unusual Religious Customs Page 24

From the past Page 27

Membership application Page 36

Treasurer’s Report

As I served with both I know what musicians and police have in ommon. Short arms and long pockets. At the time of writing this report there are still over 100 members with outstanding fees to pay. So please let's get the books up to date so that I can go out with a big smile.

Ena had to return to hospital again for another operation and is now in rehab slowly building up her strength so that she can come home.

If you haven't booked your cabin for the cruise do so soon as I want to see all your smiling faces.

Jim Harper (Scrooge McShad)

Pay your subs online AABC Assn Inc BSB: 704230 Acc. No. 100112721 Ref: YOUR NAME NO NAME NO CREDIT!!

When making out cheques/money orders there is no need to write the full title Only write: AABC Assn Inc. Cheques/money orders can be forward to the Association Treasurer: Honorary Treasurer AABC Assn Inc PO Box 2143 SEAFORD VIC 3198

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The new mess dress / concert dress

The President and Members of the Australian Army Band Corps Association extend a very warm welcome to the following members who have recently

joined, or returned to the Association:

Michelle Hey

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Vale: Raymond Leslie Gallagher OAM

By Ern Trotter QGM

I regret to advise members and friends that one of the Band Corps’ ‘shining exemplars’ has shuffled off this ‘mortal coil’ and gone to join SAINT CECILIA in her ‘Heavenly Orchestra’. Though ill, no one expected his ‘indomitable spirit’ to falter, but ‘SOMEONE’ had greater need for his talent than we who are left behind. On the 19th of June 2014, RAYMOND LESLIE GALLAGHER OAM (1937-2014) passed away, age 76 years. This sad news reached me by email from KEVIN NOON accompanied by a resume collated by NORM AUSTEN. The list of Lofty’s achievements is far too long for me to include in this report, but will recall some of the highlights in due course. Like many friends and acquaintances, I was impressed with Lofty’s awesome achievements and would like to share our introduction at Singapore in 1959 and a few ‘historical facts’ before concluding. . . . . . So, ‘On with the Motley!’ It is my belief 3RAR was the first Australian Army unit deployed on Active Service under the new ‘Tropical

Establishment’, during 1957/59. Its reduced establishment by 25% and for the Band, its loss was 7 members . . . . . . 1 SGT (Deputy BM), 1 CPL, 1 LCPL and 4 BDSM leaving an established strength of 21 members. It didn’t take long to realisethat through natural attrition, the Band was always operating ‘below strength’. The Band’s normal role in Malaya was described as ‘area pacification’ which meant thousands of miles travelled on the back of 10 wheeled Jimmys (GMC trucks) to distant (Kampongs) villages within our area of responsibility from Sungie Siput in the south to the Thai border in the north playing to mainly Chinese audiences’. Many of these engagements were accomplished with a band of 15, however, on two occasions we were rostered as ’Duty Band, Singapore’ a prestigious engagement, each of four weeks duration. The first tour as Duty Band was in 1958 when the Band had its strongest ‘front line ever’ of GEOFF BROOK, GORDON BULL, FRANK ‘Darkie’ POVAH & NICK HASSANOFF, however, by 1959, Bully, Darkie and Nick had returned to Australia, and Geoff alone was ‘holding-up the section’ . . . . . .‘We were desperate!’ The Band had been advised of the impending arrival of 2 replacement members, JIM ‘Shad’ HARPER and RAY ‘Lofty’ GALLAGHER, but had no idea of their date of arrival. Shad was the first to ‘show-up’ via BHQ, Kuala Kangsar, leaving his wife ENA to establish their new MSQ at Penang. After an over-night journey, he was met at the Railway Station, handed a cornet and taken on his first engagement with the Band. Lofty (a singlie) arrived about a week later in similar circumstances. His journey had started in Sydney some 60 hours earlier with a flight to Singapore. From Singapore he was sent to Kuala Kangsar on the overnight train. The Battalion aware of our ‘pressing need‘, immediately sent him back to Singapore where he was ‘also’ met at the Station, handed a cornet and taken on his first job with the band. Notionally, Lofty was a tuba player, but his ability to ‘adapt’ preceded him and the Band was pleasantly surprised by this ‘uncomplaining’ accomplishment. He later mused - “I go where I’m needed!” Desperation ignored the fact that he was in the wrong dress for the job . . . . . . The arrival of a British Troopship with the relieving battalion for the Loyal Regiment. Fortunately, the Band had no other engagement on that day so we took him to ‘Austarm Singapore’ where he was kitted out and paid his ‘civilian clothing allowance M$120’. Troops could not proceed on stand-down in uniform and were required to wear civilian clothing, so his next visit was to the contract

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tailor who measured him for a pair of ‘dacs’ and two shirts. All items were completed in 4 hours. Qualification for the British General Service Medal (Malaya) was 24 hrs on posted strength of a unit on Active Service so his first purchase was an ‘inch of glory’. It now seemed appropriate to introduce him to the wonders of Singapore, ‘a veritable Alladin’s Cave’, and the delights of the ‘coquettish waitresses’ at the Boston Bar plus a ‘slap-up Chinese feed’ . . . . . . . It wasn’t long before we realised what a fine ’Soldier Musician’ we had acquired not only by performance, but also by his vast musical knowledge which he willingly shared with all who sought his advice. He was appointed LCPL when the first vacancy occurred which should have meant: the Genesis of a military career, however, at this stage he was not teetotal and found himself in the dubious company of CURLY HARLEY & DASHER WHEATLY (later WO11 Kevin WHEATLY VC - posthumous). After a ‘night’s session’ at the Queen’s Beer Hall in Kuala Kangsar the trio decided to ‘set-up an ambush’ in the main jalan (street) by overturning several ‘makaan carts’ (Asian fast food stalls). The proprietor of the boozer phoned the Battalion and they dispatched the Regimental Police who promptly arrested them and returned them to camp. At a later Company Orderly Room, the ‘Regimental Ratbags’ were given a severe bullocking and Lofty was demoted to PTE. Lofty, as his name implied was 2 metres tall and ‘could not be missed in a crowd’. He had a great sense of humour and always had a jocular rejoinder on any subject. His booming laughter was equally recognised as his favourite musical theme . . . . . . the Introduction to Act 3 of Lohengrin which he would sing at the ‘drop of a hat’. He had become a most popular member of the Band whose company was keenly sought. Unfortunately, 3RAR were rapidly approaching the end of their tour of duty and Lofty would soon join our replacement battalion, 1RAR. Without a Band-room, the practice area at KK was in the rubber plantation adjacent to our lines. One morning during ‘smoko’ the RC Padre approached and asked if he could speak to the Band. He was a pleasant bloke who enjoyed a ‘tipple’ and a joke’ and could easily empathise with the men. He started out affably, but after a while his real purpose evolved and it seemed he was upset that the band Catholics weren’t attending Mass. Well, the reason was the RCs don’t have ‘singing services’ whereas the Anglicans and the OPDs do, and the Band were rostered for their Church Parades. Finally, the Padre brought up ‘Church dogma’ and after a lengthy discourse, he looked at Lofty and enquired . . . . . . “Isn’t that right Gallagher?” to which Lofty replied . . . . . . “I dunno, I’m not a Catholic!” That was ‘fait accomplie’ at which point the priest threw his arms in the air in resignation and departed. The real reason the ‘Rock-Choppers’ were less than enthusiastic about Mass occurred almost two years earlier at the Jungle Training Centre, KOTA TINGGI, while the Battalion were frenetically training 24/7 in their new role as ’jungle fighters’. The Band’s new role had not yet been established so we continued our daily practice. One morning the RC Padre strolled into the band lines and enquired . . . . . . “How many Catholics in the Band Ern?” To which I replied “Eight”. He responded . . . . . . “I want you to make sure they attend next Sunday’s Mass at 1000 hrs! Most of our R Cs were ’Catholics of Convenience’ who rarely attended church, but there were a couple of ‘devout-believers’ who took a dim view of a ‘Sally’ telling them to go to Mass. Nevertheless, next Sunday dressed in clean starched uniforms they set off to do the Priest’s bidding. Within an hour they had returned sweaty and most annoyed. Having reached the chapel in plenty of time, they waited for the arrival of the Padre. Exasperated by his non-appearance, they approached the Officers’ Lines and found his batman who explained the Padre arrived home from Singapore at 0300 hrs ‘tired and emotional’ and wouldn’t be available till mid-afternoon at the earliest. This put them ‘off-side’ and they never forgave him. . . . . And this was the main reason they hadn’t been attending Mass. After RTA in 1959, contact with Lofty was spasmodic, but I believe he attained the rank of Senior NCO in due course. During his army service he served in 5 bands and after Malaya, he was deployed to Vietnam. I’m not sure when his health began to decline but one of the results of his

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disability was the need for ‘temperance’. Several mutual acquaintances observed . . . . . ’I wonder what will happen to his sense of humour now?’ Well! . . . . . . Let me tell you - nothing happened. We met at reunions and I assure members . . . . . .‘His wit remained sharp as a tack!’ and a joy to be in his company, even as he drank ‘lolly water’. In due course he was discharged and commenced his ‘next career’ as a music teacher and Bandmaster maintaining directorship of the YORK CONCERT BAND for 12 years. PATRICIA BAILY, Secretary of the Band was most expansive in her tribute to Lofty describing him as a ‘gentleman, generous with his time and knowledge who inspired by example’. Ultimately, he was declared the ‘1994 Penrith Citizen of the Year’ and a bronze plaque was affixed to a public building commemorating this event. He later became a tuba player of the SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA whose fellow musicians attested his musical expertise and compatibility. In addition, Lofty played in many ‘A’ Grade Brass Bands and was Conductor, Official Judicator and member of the NSW Band Association. He ‘audaciously’ took a group of students to Europe, entered them in the British Junior Instrumental Solo Championships with surprising success. But most noteworthy was his satisfaction when students excelled and I vividly recall his joy when a brass player was contracted to be a member of the band backing an international entertainer on an Australian tour. Another female student won a scholarship to an International Music Academy to study conducting. Her course took her to many European and Russian orchestral conductors for individual coaching. Lofty’s health declined but I always felt uplifted by his optimistic outlook and anticipation for ‘better days to come’. His attitude to adversity was inspirational and I always concluded conversation with him feeling inwardly elevated. I didn’t keep regular contact with him, but a mutual friend TOM GILLIGAN did, and he kept me apprised of Lofty’s state of health. . . . . . . Then, of course, towards the end of June came the sad news that ‘he’d dropped off the twig!’ Once again NORM AUSTEN came to the fore by posting on the Association website the location and date of Lofty’s funeral service - Pinegrove Cemetery, Thu 26 Jun 14. Regretful that I would be unable to pay my respects, I wondered the number of ‘Old Comrades’ who would assemble to express their condolence. Relying on a report from LIONEL GREEN (who did attend from the South Coast of NSW) the number of ex-army musicians in attendance was less than expected. Lofty’s frequent companion VIV LAW, who recently lost his own wife, was in attendance. Lionel gratefully provided the studio photo of LCPL Lofty playing the EEb tuba. Interestingly, I received an account of the funeral service from an unexpected source . . . . . . an email from my friend JIM HAWKINS the former Sec/Editor of the Navy Band Association. A member of that Assn attended the Service and recorded the following: “There was quite a crowd to ensure Lofty had a memorable send off. Fifteen trumpeters assemble to play the Last Post and Reveille in unison and completed a fine performance. At the conclusion of the service during the closing of the curtains, Lofty had requested they play Gracie Fields old standard: “WISH ME LUCK AS YOU WAVE ME GOODBYE”. . . . . (Isn’t that typical of Lofty’s quirky humour?) A composite band assembled and played an ingoing and outgoing voluntary. It was a fitting farewell to a great Bandsman, Teacher, Conductor and Gentleman. We have lost one of the great characters of Banding, but what a great legacy he has left in his wake”. . . . . This was a most generous tribute and exemplifies Lofty’s standing within the Service Band community. Thank you RAN Band Association members for your noble thoughts. It is often difficult to arrange for a single bugler to play the Last Post at a funeral, but 15 trumpeters for one man illustrates LOFTY’S status in the world of Service & Civilian Bandsmen. In conclusion, I’d like to convey deepest sympathy to Raymond’s Wife and Family on behalf of the Armed Service Music fraternity.

“What else can one say on behalf of this model musician? . . . . . .Ern T”

“TOO SOON FAITHFUL WARRIOR, COMES THY REST!”

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Vale: Frank Poll (1941-2014)

By Ern Trotter QGM

Its my melancholy duty to advise the death of FRANK POLL (formerly of Southern Command & RAAF Central Bands) on the 9th July 14, age 73 years. I am informed the cause of death was cancer. Frank was a country lad raised at Mulwala on the banks of the Murray. He came to Melbourne in search of work and found a position in the financial sector of the city located in the north west quadrant of Collins and Queen Streets. During this period he enlisted as a bandsman in the Prince of Wales Light Horse Band playing solo cornet. This was the best and most consistent CMF Brass Band based in Victoria and a unit that had attracted several prominent members of ‘ARA Bands’ including MAJOR IVAN COCKING, WO2 IAN COCKING, SGT JACK CURTIN and BDSM ‘SHORTY’ SHAW of Reservoir. Another interest of Frank’s was his favourite ‘watering-hole’ the anachronistic Mitre Tavern, a Tudor style pub, hidden away behind glass and concrete towers that could only be accessed by alley or laneway. It was frequented by ‘big-bellied bureaucrats in three piece suits’ and a far cry from his other interest ’the philosophies of the left!’ For a ‘working-man’, he chose some ‘unusual drinking companions’ but Frank was known for a ‘curious’ perspective on life. During the early stages of Southern Command Band’s conversion from brass to military band, Frank, along with Ivan and Ian Cocking enlisted adding strength and professionalism to the Band’s personnel. The Cocking brothers were well known for their advancement in the Corps, but Frank became apathetic to such a degree, the Bandmaster threatened to re-trade test him. This ‘lit a fire in his belly’ and quickly regained his attitude, confidence and ability. With new-found self-reliance, he ultimately applied for enlistment in the RAAF Central Band and was accepted. I believe he completed pensionable service with this unit. Whenever he was in the Band Orderly Room area, the Cpl (who later rose to the top of the Corps) and myself, would taunt him on his beliefs: not because of a ‘bias to the right’, but because he’d always swallow the bait ‘hook, line & sinker!’ His reaction was dependable and always created a good laugh. Nevertheless, he was a ‘warm hearted soul’ who journeyed to Tasmania to play the Last Post and Reveille at the funeral of late LOU RYCHTER, a former member of Southern Command Band. After discharge, he operated a window cleaning venture and one of his regular customers was my chemist where we’d occasionally meet to ‘chew the fat’ and debate the state of politics. Frank kept in touch with ‘Uncle’ MAX LEVIER & ‘Spider’ McBRIDE who’d meet occasionally in the city over a ‘cup of latte and cake’; a far cry from a ‘pot and pastie at the Mitre!’ His passing will be a tragic loss for wife VAL (also a musician) and daughters BRONWYN & JUDY. I would like to conclude by expressing on behalf of his former Service Musician mates our heart-felt condolences. . . . . . . . Ern TROTTER

“MAY SAINT CECILIA GUIDE YOUR CELESTIAL JOURNEY!”

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Vale: Colin Anderson

While Colin was not a member of the Army Bands his contribution and support to the bands is recognized and his passing is worthy of mention in this edition of the newsletter. Colin Anderson was born in Newcastle NSW. Later, reading English at the soon to become University of Newcastle, Colin focused on theatre and began to make it his life. After completing his qualifications Colin commenced teaching English at James Ruse Agricultural High School in Sydney. He immediately introduced drama and play performance programs in that unlikely arena.

During this period (1963 - 1967) Colin worked extensively with the high profile Sydney University Drama Society and appeared in regular revues alongside such luminaries as Germaine Greer, John Gaden and Arthur Dignam. This work led to appearances on The Mavis Bramston Show that was breaking new comic ground on Australian television under the leadership of Gordon Chater. The period 1968 - 1969 saw Colin in London teaching and studying theatre and appearing in productions of Robert Bolt’s The Tiger and The Horse and Jean Anouilh’s Dinner with the Family. By 1970 he was back in Sydney and at James Ruse. Colin's talents and expertise were now in demand by the NSW Education Department. He was extensively involved in in-service workshops and demonstrations as the Department sought to harness his talents for wider secondary education. In 1972 he was lured from Sydney to Wagga Wagga and the fledgling Riverina College of Advanced Education by the then Principal, Dr CD Blake. He was appointed Lecturer in Drama. His brief was to design and introduce drama courses to service teacher education programs, to present productions, and most importantly, to bring town and gown together via theatre. With characteristic energy and expertise gained from his, by now formidable, experience Colin set to. Most significant and immediate for College/City relations was his inauguration of the annual College Revue. Over the next twenty years he mounted and managed most popular and successful programs in teacher education and subsequently introduced an independent Associate Diploma in Performing Arts course and later the Bachelor of Arts (Theatre) course. He presented a huge variety of productions, a frequent characteristic of which was to draw the most unlikely students into roles they’d normally have run from. His ability to cast and direct students in ways that induced life-changing self-awareness was one of the continuous hallmarks in his career as a highly successful and much loved teacher. At the same time Colin made his energy and professionalism in both directing and acting available to the local community theatre scene, most particularly with the Wagga School of Arts. Other invaluable community contributions included his work with the Golden Gown Committee, his patronage and work for the Crippled Children’s Society and his period as resident compere of the 1RTB Band Kapooka. Meanwhile, in service of Riverina-Murray Institute of Higher Education Colin was promoted to Senior Lecturer in 1979. In 1992 he was promoted to Associate Professor of Drama and ended a rich career with the, by then, Charles Sturt University when he retired as Head of Performing Arts at the end of that year. Upon retirement from University Colin launched a new career as freelance director. Colin passed away on 8th July 2014, aged 76 years.

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Greeting from Commanding Officer Australian Army Band Once again in an airport awaiting a cancelled flight, I find myself with some time to write to you all. It seems there is hardly a month goes by where significant achievements or goals have not been met by the AAB, the last few being no exception. More than ever before (in my memory anyway), the AAB is travelling to exotic locales, and partaking in events maybe a little left of centre for an Army musician. Refreshed branding abounds, our 2013 Journal has finally hit the streets, the AAB Facebook presence is up and running, and the new AAB website is well into its development stage; let's break this down a bit. For the first time, an Australian Defence Band was directed to provide support to the Anzac commemorations at Villers Bretonneux and Bullecourt in April this year, Army was directed to lead on this occasion. The team was an integrated band of full time and part time members, drawn from all sub units of the AAB. This 'combining' practice is common now for all major activities, both domestically and overseas; our full time staffing levels are such that without the part time staff we would struggle to provide Army with the service they have come to expect. Led by Major Lindsay Mee and Warrant Officer Class Two Joanne Davey, the AAB performed on six occasions in varied events ranging from the main service at Villers Bretonneux to leading processions through country France culminating in poignant battle fields, the resting place of many unnamed Aussie Diggers. Of course, there was also the opportunity for the members to enjoy the French provincial hospitality offered so readily to the Aussie service personnel. Bugling and piping duties this past Anzac Day saw AAB members at Gallipoli, Bomana, Isurava, and Sandakan. Our vocalists provided support to the DVA commemorative efforts in Belgium and Ypres also. At very short notice Army was directed to provide bugling support to activities marking the 70th anniversary of the Normandy landing. LCPL Dave Woods from the AAB Sydney jumped when offered the opportunity and when not actually bugling was absorbed as a member of Australia's Federation Guard, a most memorable experience for a young Army musician. As I type, we have representation again at the Basel Tattoo. We were delighted to be invited to return to this marvellous Swiss event, showcasing once again Australia's diverse talent and good natured larrikinism. Early reports back from Switzerland are that the Aussies are a smash hit! The addition of SGT Adam Matthews to the HQ team is proving a very canny decision. Adam (one of the more tech generation), has forged ahead with many of the marketing and media projects desired by all of us for some time now. Right now you can see the very active Facebook site at https://www.facebook.com/AustralianArmyBand and soon there will be an all new website too. On the web site all sub units of the AAB will have their own page, a ‘one stop shop’ if you like for the 11 bands around the country. Available on the web site will be the launch of the AABC Journal in an all new electronic medium. You will be a able to access the entire year in review of what the AAB has achieved just by the click of a button on a hyperlink.

Rebranding continues with the arrival of the new music stand banners and backing cards. They have been launched with the Band in Basel, but the Chief of the Army, Lieutenant General David Morrison, AO got a sneak peak at the final Basel rehearsal and was very pleased with the striking new look. Keep your eyes peeled, you can't miss them, a striking Rising Sun on black with gold trim! Also appearing at all AAB Rock Band performances you will see the new ‘back drop’ to the band. Again, centred around Army’s iconic logo, all of our Rock Bands will now go by the name “The Rising Suns”, regardless of the location. I wrote in March’s edition of the pending undertaking by AABs Newcastle and Darwin over the first couple of weeks in April, the likes of which we have not attempted before. With one travelling due west and the other due south, they met in Alice Springs and conducted a series of concerts in Alice

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and Uluru (not to mention the individual performances along the way). In support of local communities in the region it was a highly successful undertaking and kudos to both CAPTs Cole and Thompson for conceiving this plan and seeing it through. Also as advised last edition, we were to enter a team in the annual Australian Army Skill at Arms competition down at Puckapunyal. The team was very successful beating many highly favoured units including two of Australia’s finest Infantry units, not to mention some outstanding individual efforts, I couldn’t have asked for better. You can access the complete results at the AAB Facebook page. Of course, the AAB remains committed to the Australian soldier. Those traditional activities one has become accustomed to still regularly occur. Parades, dinners, open days, all still feature the AAB; Army’s appreciation of these and our more progressive efforts becomes more evident every day. We still unfortunately assist Army in saying goodbye to fallen soldiers, having recently brought home two from incidents overseas that resulted in their deaths, Lest We Forget. As you can see, an incredibly exciting past quarter. I’m keen to see how we deal with the remainder of the year with almost as much planned yet to occur (stay tuned). With that, I will say good night and trust that each of you have a wonderful Band Corps Birthday, spent with great mates and reliving memorable times. Warmest regards,

Gordon Lambie CSM

Lieutenant Colonel Commanding Officer Australian Army Band Head of Corps Australian Army Band Corps

Basel Tattoo

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In July of this year, 70 members of the Australian Army Band had the privilege to perform in the Basel Tattoo. The Basel Tattoo is a fairly new concept as it will celebrate its 10 year anniversary in 2015. Similar to the Edinburgh Tattoo, it consists of a wide range of performers from across the globe, showcasing marching performances, dancing, singing and even demonstrations of national pride and history.

2014 was the second time that the Australian Army Band was given the opportunity to perform for the local residents of Basel. With a two week concentration period in Canberra, members from every sub-unit in the Australian Army Band, both part time and full time were represented.

During the Tattoo the Australian Army Band took part in a joint concert with The Central Band of the Royal Air Force from England, as well as 15 sold out shows performing to approximately 150,000 people over 10 days. The Band also took part in a march through the streets of Freiburg, Germany followed by a mini tattoo for the local residents. On the final day, all performers from the Tattoo joined together for a march through the streets of Basel.

The Australian Army Band was very well received and honoured to receive the heartfelt hospitality of the local people of such a prestigious event.

CPL Tony Barker

Public Affairs NCO

Band of the Royal Military College Duntroon

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AABC Birthday 2014 – Australian Army Band Tasmania

AAB-T celebrated our recent 46th Corps Birthday with a formal mixed dining in function at the Officer’s mess at Anglesea Barracks. This was followed by drinks at the Sergeant’s Mess “Dungeon Bar” The night was very enjoyable with music provided by a number of our smaller subgroups, including our jazz, woodwind and saxophone ensembles. As the evening progressed, dining traditions and protocols were explained for our newer members. Also incorporated during the evening’s proceedings was the farewell of LCPL Marcia Calder having completed 34 years’ service. Ashley Thomson

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AABC Birthday 2014 – Australian Army Band Perth I believe this year heralded the best AABC birthday celebrations around the country yet. We had our usual 70 to 80 attendees with a number of people who have not shown up much previously (if ever) and some regulars not present. Best overall effort award went to Harry Jenkin (now usually house bound and in a wheel chair). George Franklyn (aged 90) oldest and possibly fittest of the lot and still operating the GF Magic Dream / Perth Jazz Club Big Band. For the first time, the reigns to organise and run the day in WA were passed from Bill Honter to the OC/MD AABP who delegated Dave Baker who in turn had Dave Scott and three or four others (sorry but I could screw the names up if I attempted) to do the actual setting up, collecting cash, running the bar and cooking etc. Thank you to Dave Baker for a well organised day. OC, Capt Stephen Button, gave excellent words of welcome and a fine brief on the state of the Band (Australia wide and local) and proposed the toast, also observing the usual ritual of remembering those departed this past year. All round, combined with clear sky and a relief from dismal winter weather we have been having up until Saturday it was excellent. Bob Keatch

Marie HONTER’s beautifully baked cake

Bob KEATCH, CAPT Stephen BUTTON, Brian UNDERWOOD, Ian MILNE, Fred ROOKE, Langley SMITH, Harry JENKIN (sitting)

MUSN Gareth HEARNE and George FRANKLIN (92)

cut the cake.

The Piper’s were represented by Ken WALKER and Peter JONES.

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Fred ROOKE, Bill HONTER, Keith WALKER, Chris

MULLIN

Grahame COULSON, Michael LEACH, Ian MILNE, Kay

LOWE, Tanya SWANN, Chris MULLIN

Joan LARNER, Cecile JONES, Larraine KEATCH, Luke DEVENISH, Bob KEATCH, Fred ROOKE, Cheryl ROOKE and Heather MILNE at the table with Marie HONTER walking past behind Bob and Peter GROOSE and Max DOUGLAS chatting in the background.

Robin PALMER, Grahame COULSON and Michael LEACH

Fred ROOKE, Robin PALMER, Nola FORMENTIN, David PETIT, Don GUY, Brian UNDERWOOD and Peter BARSDEN.

Kay LOWE, Michael LEACH, Tanya SWANN and Kevin FENNER.

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Langley SMITH, Brian UNDERWOOD, Dr Brian DODDS and Dave SCOTT.

All in singing the Corps song with the main organizer Dave BAKER second from the right and Langley SMITH next to him.

AABC Birthday 2014 – Australian Army Band Brisbane

A large Roll Call of ‘Olds and Bolds’, Australian Army Band Brisbane, the Band of the 1st Regiment RAA and family members turned out for the 46th Birthday of the Australian Army Band Corps and the 25th Anniversary of the Australian Army Band Corps Association. The event was held at the Bandhut of 1 Regt Band at Gallipoli Barracks Enoggera, a building many would remember as home to Northern Command Band (circa 1964) which later became the Band of the 1st Military District. 1 Regt Band moved into the complex when 1MD Band moved to Gona Barracks at Kelvin Grove in 1987.

WO1 John Franklin, WO1 Simon Renfrey, Neville

Hammond, Doug Hocking, Laurie Young, MAJ Jeff Cocks

As the sausages sizzled and drinks flowed the crowd gathered in the auditorium to listen to the stage bands of both units as they performed alternate brackets early in the day. In the weeks leading up to our birthday event Major Jeff Cocks, Officer Commanding/Music Director Australian Army Band Brisbane, suggested that it would be a nice change to have the bands actually play during the celebrations. This proved to be an excellent move as everyone in attendance enjoyed listening to such a great line up while relaxing and catching up with old mates. The feedback as a result of this idea was extremely positive and many commented on how this quickly became a highlight of what was a great day.

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WO1 Simon Renfrey, Neville Hammond, Doug

Hocking, Laurie Young, MAJ Jeff Cocks

Ian Doughty, Doug Williams, Graeme McDonald

John Seagg, Tom Joy

Shane McGuigan, Nelson Oakley

Olds and Bolds jam session

Stage Band - AAB Brisbane

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Stage Band - 1 Regt Band RAA

Stage Band - 1 Regt Band RAA

As hosts of the event, Major Cocks and WO1 Simon Renfrey, Bandmaster of 1 Regt Band, invited three former Music Directors, Doug Hocking, Laurie Young and Neville Hammond, to move forward and cut the cake. While tradition was slightly side stepped on this occasion in lieu of our youngest member being asked to perform this task it highlighted the fact that our ex serving soldier musicians are still very committed to our organisation and keen to promote its ideals. I take this opportunity to thank those who attended our special day noting that in excess of 90 people strolled through our gates.

The next day a contingent of ex and current serving soldier musicians hooked up campers, packed their gear and deployed on Operation Kermit. This trip was made in memory of our great camping buddy Jeff ‘Kermit’ Walker to Inskip Point via Rainbow Beach. Working like a well-oiled machine the team quickly identified camping spots and went to work ‘digging in’. John ‘Snara’ Hadlow, who

organised the trip, had the fire roaring and dinner on the go within minutes. Thanks Snara. We ate well, had the odd beer or two and enjoyed reminiscing the good times we experienced during careers spanning the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s and beyond. At the height of the deployment Roll Call read as follows: John Seagg, John Hadlow, Graeme Stephenson, Greg Maddy, Scottie Laycock, Steve Knagge, John Franklin, Keith Love, Steve Hooper, Jeff Turner, John Pyers, Mark Davies and 4 year old Patterson Davies. Little Patterson kept an eye on his Dad and dug miles of trenches in the sand with his bucket and spade to keep us all safe.

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After a few days a local maxi cab was commandeered and the contingent ventured into town for a convivial afternoon of socialising and an evening of fine food. This gave us the opportunity to plan the following evening’s Regimental Dining in Night.

Our three Webber Q’s sprung into action cooking the ultimate roast on the beach. Mr Vice called us to dinner and after saying Grace we sat and hooked in. Following this outstanding meal Keith ‘Phantom’ Walker was summoned from Perth and joined us on speaker phone for the toasts. Daybreak saw the camp returned to its natural state after ‘Stand To’ and the withdrawal of a group of great mates who had enjoyed a week of being with each other once again. John Franklin WO1 Band Sergeant Major Band of the 1st Regiment RAA

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AABC Association 25th Anniversary Dinner Canberra

Dan Hiscock, Tony Sillcock, Kevin Noon, Stephen

Mee

Ralph Newman and Ian Mclean

Ian Mclean and Colin Fischer

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AABC Birthday 2014 – Australian Army Band Sydney

Includes: Greg Beavis, Cam Earl, Sel King, Steve Bull,

Pete Bell

Unusual Religious Customs in Malaya

By Ern Trotter QGM

Until 31 August 1957, MALAYA was a Crown Colony of the British Empire. Slightly more than half of its population were Malays who worshipped Mohammad. Many were were subsistence farmers or rubber tappers and spent much of their time in coffee shops. As Muslims they prayed five times a day at the local mosque, and suppose one of the first surprises experienced living in their midst was the local muezzin calling the faithful to prayer at 5.00 am daily. Another group of Muslims were the Pakistanis whose major activity was to provide food stores, household goods, manchester, napery, linen, exotic cloth and silk. They were mainly patronised by the European community. The Chinese were great achievers who managed commerce and the law, built the vast ‘concrete canyons’ of Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and extracted the tin. They worshipped Buddha and for the most part, were hard working and inoffensive . . . . . . except those who were Communist Terrorists and formed quasi military units to terrorise and murder the European owners, managers and employees of the rubber plantations and mining ventures. The balance were Indians; Sikhs and various ethnic varieties of Hindus. The burly, bearded Sikhs were a ‘warrior class’ who provided many police officers, soldiers and security personnel. The remainder were a diverse race still separated by the ‘caste system’ of Hinduism. The lower caste were obvious by their dress and occupation ‘night-soil carters, garbage collectors, road labourers & street sweepers‘: the highest, the Brahmins were recognised by the sacred thread looped over their shoulder and studied ‘religious philosophy & classical academia’. Very few of these races integrated but lived in their own self-contained communities; so if a person wished to see Asia ‘on the cheap’ . . . . . . then visit Malaysia. The first of two outstanding religious incidents encountered as a Regimental Drum Major occurred at KL during the first anniversary of MERDEKA (Independence) 31 August 1958, when representative Commonwealth units (Platoon strength - about 30) gathered for functions attended by the Yang De Pertuan Agong (King of Malaysia). The first event was a ceremonial parade on the State Padang (the town common, a vast open space) in front of the Selangor Club. As Malaya is

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just above the Equator, parades of this nature must be held early in the morning and conclude by 10.30 to avoid the oppressive heat. The parade was ‘simplicity itself’ preceded by a rehearsal. The troops marched on, were ‘dressed’ followed by the arrival of the Royal Party and guests. After the Royal Salute the King inspected the parade in a Landrover, shaded by the ‘Bearer of the Yellow Umbrella’. The next phase was a speech in Malay & English followed by the ’Advance in Review Order’. With a single aspect remaining to conclude the rehearsal, a Muslim Officer approached the RSM advising that a ‘grave insult’ was about to be perpetrated. Commonwealth Armies give ’Three Hearty Cheers’ in the following manner: Troops stood at ’the Order’ with the rifle butt against the right boot, head-dress was removed with the left hand and held against the left thigh, waiting for the Parade Commander to complete his preamble . . . . . . “Three Hearty Cheers for His Majesty the King of Malaysia . . . . Hip - Hip - Hip! after which the parade would respond with a rousing - “HOO-RAH!” - at the same time raise the hat at arms length above the head. Immediately realising the insult, the RSM stopped the rehearsal, summoned the Platoon Sgts to a nearby marquee and ‘modified the movement’. The need for modification was as follows: Malay Muslims usually eat their meal off a portion of banana leaf. Rendang curry and rice is served on to the leaf and they mix and form small portions with the fingers of the ’right hand’ then pop it into their mouth. The ‘left hand’ should ‘never’ touch cooked food because this hand is used for ‘personal toiletry’. . . . . . . . and this was the crux of the problem. Salutations to the King could not be made with the ’hand that affects the paper-work!’ Modifying the drill was effected by ‘changing arms’ at the Order thus reversing the movement. Not difficult, but time consuming in the rapidly raising heat. The Aussie and Kiwi units were alongside, and ‘pissed-off’ with the delay. Without consultation, they changed the vocal ejaculation from Hurrah to an alternative that started with ‘F’. However, their protest was lost in the volume of voices, but it gave a fair measure of satisfaction to have expressed their discontent. The alternative ‘shout’ was also initiated on the actual parade, but dissatisfaction was allayed at the end of all commitments when the Government put on a magnificent social ‘blow-out’ for the forces with live entertainment, all manner of exotic food and drinks at the Selangor Club. The 100 mile journey from Kuala Kangsar to our families in Penang was an interesting trip which took the traveller through the mountains of Perak and the Taiping Pass, finally levelling out at Bagan Serai where the troops usually stopped for a bowl of mah-mee or mee-goreng and a cold bottle of Anchor beer. Just north of the town vast paddy-fields commenced that extended as far as the eye could see, interrupted occasionally by the extrusion of limestone cores erupting straight up several hundred feet above the liquid landscape, very reminiscent of South China. As one left the town the first feature to ‘hit the eye’ was a profusion of colour in the form of a small covered Hindu shrine. There were always small groups of Indians offering ‘puja’ (prayer) to the deity. But most unusual were the larger groups of Europeans taking photos of the subject within the shrine which happened to be a ¾ size white painted sand-stone stallion rearing with a huge red erect penis, facing a small deity. A sheaf of rice was suspended above the horse and was obviously a ‘fertility shrine’. Several years after my return to Australia I was having a chat with my successor. Inevitably, the journey north came up in conversation and the humour of the white stallion. He then related a story of the horse’s ‘truncated doodle’. A group of Regimental Sergeants were returning to Kuala Kangsar late one night having attended a formal function at the RAAF Butterworth. All were attired in tropical Mess Dress. As they approached Bagan Serai they decided to ‘point Percy at the pond’ and stopped adjacent to the

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Hindu Shrine. It was a moonlit night when one of the party had a ‘brain-storm’, he crossed the irrigation channel, approached the horse, squatted, grasped the huge ‘red penorkle’ with both hands and gave a mighty heave. The object separated from the body with such consummate ease that the ‘violator’ was projected backwards into the channel with great velocity. He was immediately rescued, body submerged with both legs and arms erect ’clutching the penis’ and head barely above water. The next morning the incident became public knowledge in the Sergeant’s Mess causing much mirth among the members. The RSM was more guarded in his response and took possession of the penis and kept it under lock and key in fear of being discovered as the ‘religious violators’. At appropriate Regimental Functions, the ‘object’ is placed on display in the Sergeant’s Mess Trophy Cabinet, but as soon as the evening concludes, it is once again secured under lock and key. The reason for this caution is due to the fact that other Units endeavour to steal objects of Regimental interest for inclusion in their own Trophy Cabinet and the ‘red penorkle’ is considered a prize trophy and its acquisition would be a Regimental Triumph. . . . . . To the best of my knowledge, it remains in the care of the RSM and is always the subject of hilarious humour. . . . . .

….oooOooo….

FOOTNOTE: The Hindu Religion has thousands of deities and all are depicted with a caste mark on the lower forehead between the eyes. The description ‘caste mark’ is a misnomer as the red painted shape (stripe, tear drop or dot) is actually a ‘third eye’ and its presence bestows the wearer with ‘protection, inner-sight and wisdom’. It is used by all castes of Hindus. As a lad I recall the story of ‘The Green Eye of the Little Pagan God’, which I believe was written by RUDYARD KIPLING and relates a tale from the British Raj when a large uncut emerald was prised from the forehead of a Hindu deity. Any person who possessed the gem was smitten with bad luck until the emerald was eventually returned to its original place. I drew similarities between the deity and the horse although (to my belief) no harm came to the violator or his contemporaries. Like many others, I was amused by the story, but a little saddened that a fellow soldier treated another person’s religion with contempt. However, I’m pleased to record that the horse’s symbol of fecund virility was restored. Hopefully with a steel rod within to prevent further desecration. ERN T

Rod Grant at the AWM placing a

poppy in memory of Michael Poole

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From the Past

Army Apprentice School 22nd Intake 1969 Photo includes: Ian Milne, Norm Brewer,

Brenton Parry, Perry Mason, Chris Morris and Ian Mclean

Army Apprentice School 19th Intake

Barry McCosker and Rod Grant

2MD Band Circa 1980s

Editor – Stuart Colhoun The views and opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the contributors and do not reflect the official position of the AABC Association Incorporated, unless otherwise stated. The Editor reserves the right to decide on the publication of any article or item for any edition of Noteworthy.

Phone: 03 5367 8351 E-Mail: sepmc@iprimus.com.au Mail to: 5 Hammond Circuit HOPETOUN PARK VIC 3340

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APPENDIX 1

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP OF THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS ASSOCIATION INC.

I, (name)…………………………………………….…, of (address)…………………………………………………………….…………….............. desire to become a member of the Australian Army Band Corps Association Inc. Phone (Bus): ………………..…. Phone (AH): …………………… Mobile: …………..…..…… Email: ……………………………………………………………... Fax: ……………………… Date of Birth: ………………………Spouse/Partner Name: ……………..………………………. . Service No: ……………………. Bands/units served in and dates: ………….……………...….. ………………………………………………………………………………………….………............. In the event of my admission as a member, I agree to be bound by the rules of the Association for the time being in force. ………………………….. ……………………. Signature of Applicant Date

I, (name) ………………………………………….., a member of the Association, nominate the applicant, who is personally known to me, for membership of the Association. …………………………. ……………………. Signature of Proposer Date I, (name) ………………………………………….., a member of the Association, second the nomination of the applicant, who is personally known to me, for membership of the Association. ………………………….. ……………………. Signature of Seconder Date Forward completed application to: Mr Kevin Noon

Hon Secretary AABC Association Inc. 9 Dennis Place JERRABOMBERRA NSW 2619

Office Use: Committee Notified: Date Ratified: Details in Register: Category: Entrance Fee Paid: Annual Subscription Paid: Receipt:

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