RSL - NEWS - September 2012 Webx - SportsTG · It is with deep regret that we have been notified of the death of the following Members since our last newsletter was printed. Our deepest

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MORWELL RSL SUB-BRANCH NEWSLETTER ( QUARTERLY )

SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER, 2012 LEST WE FORGET

Morwell RSL Sub-Branch Inc. Corner Elgin & Tarwin Streets Morwell P.O. Box 105, Morwell 3840 - Phone (03) 5134 2455

E-mail: [email protected] - Website: www.morwell.rslvic.com.au _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Your Committee President:- Bruce Jeffrey Senior Vice President:- Les Maher Vice President:- Wayne Gwynne Secretary:- Dennis Cleary Treasurer:- William (Bill) Hall Committee Members:- Ted Dunstan, Joe Geddes, Don George, David Nutt, and Paul Rayment General Manager:- Dennis Cleary Manager:- Christine Hennessy _____________________________________ Sub Committees Appeals:- Wayne Gwynne (Appeals Officer) and Don George Pensions and Welfare:- Joe Geddes, Ted Dunstan, Don George and David Nutt Newsletter & Web Site Editor:- Graham (Beatle) Burgess

Internet Kiosk

Introduction Session at Quarterly Morning Meeting. In conjunction with the Morwell RSL, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs has set-up and funded an “Internet Kiosk” in the Morwell VAN Office, George Street Morwell. The kiosk will open on Monday 3rd September. An introduction session will be conducted at the Morwell RSL’s quarterly meeting on Thursday 30th August. It will show how easy the computer is to use and what you can expect from it.

What is an Internet Kiosk:-

An internet kiosk is basically an area with a computer supplied for the general public to use. In this case, it’s for Veterans’ Affairs clients and their families to use. There is also no charge to use the computer which includes free access to the Internet.

The computer is set-up for easy use and no prior computer knowledge is required. However users with no prior computer knowledge will have to learn the simple and easy things like selecting icons and other menus with a computer mouse. The DVA staff will be available to get you started and Graham Burgess will be able to help with more complex tasks.

This computer internet kiosk project was initiated by the Social Health Policy Section, Mental and Social Health Branch, Health and Community Services Division at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs in Canberra. Catherine Spooner from that office developed and administered the workings and conditions of use for the kiosk. Graham Burgess from the Morwell RSL has set-up the computer and developed its background screens and menus.

The aim of this project and its logo is:-

DVA and Morwell RSL Connecting Families & Friends through the Internet.

The internet kiosk computer screen menus give direct internet access to such things as, daily newspapers, weather reports, Village cinemas, cricket, football, television programs, Seniors Victoria, email, lotto results and the Morwell RSL. Internet Kiosk – Continued on page 3

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Women’s Auxiliary President:- Mary Gwynne Senior Vice President:- Pat Sheahey Vice President:- Lyn Priems Secretary:- Debra Lougheed Treasurer:- Julie Bassett __________________________________________

Courtesy Bus

The Courtesy Bus is only available to Morwell RSL Sub-Branch Service, Affiliate and Social Members.

The bus will pick you up from your Home, or any other Club and Pub in Morwell or Churchill and bring you to the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch. Return Journeys will only be made from the Sub-Branch to your Home.

If you wish to come to the RSL in the courtesy bus during the times shown below, please telephone the Sub-Branch on (03) 5134 2455. OPERATING TIMES.

Tuesday:- 5-00pm to 10-00pm.

Wednesday:- 5-00pm to 10-00pm. With runs to Churchill at 6-00pm and 8-00pm

Friday:- 5-00pm till late. With runs to Churchill at 5-50pm and 9-00pm

Saturday:- 7-00pm till late.

Remembrance Day and Appeal

This year’s Morwell Remembrance Day service will commence at the Cenotaph on Sunday 11th November at 10-40am.

Each year we need volunteers to sell poppies prior to Remembrance Day and we would also like to see some new faces amongst the regular volunteers who sell poppies every year.

Remembrance Day poppies will be sold from several locations in the Morwell, Churchill Yinnar and Boolarra areas from Thursday 1st to Saturday 10th November, 2012.

Most of our regular volunteers will receive a letter reminding them of the appeal and checking their availability. If you don’t receive a letter and can spare some of your valuable time to sell poppies, or you could sell them at your place of employment, we would appreciate your help. If you would like to help, please contact the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch’s Appeals Officer, Wayne Gwynne on 0418 510 131 or by leaving your name and contact details with the RSL reception staff, telephone 5134 2455. _______________________________________________________________________________

Internet Version of Newsletter

A coloured version of this newsletter is available for you to download or view on the Morwell RSL’s Website at www.morwell.rslvic.com.au

Forget that I stumbled

Forget that I’ve stumbled and blundered And sometimes fell by the way.

Remember I’ve fought some hard battles And won, at the close of the day.

VALE

It is with deep regret that we have been notified of the death of the following Members since our last newsletter was printed.

Our deepest sympathy is extended to their family and friends. EILEEN M. PEARCE - 9th JUNE 2012 KEVIN F. O’CONNELL - 15th JULY 2012 RUSSELL W. HUMPHRIES - 6th AUGUST 2012 TESS E. GRAY - 15th AUGUST 2012

LEST WE FORGET.

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Internet Kiosk – Continued from page 1

Internet Kiosk – Introduction Session at Quarterly Morning Meeting.

The computer may also be used to contact your computer literate family and friends via the internet telephone program, “Skype” and there is direct access to military related sites for research, information and health & welfare. You may also play games or use a word processor.

Due to funding and logistic reasons the computers internet is via a wireless connection and has limited download limits. It is hoped that in the spirit of free internet access, any computer literate users will refrain from downloading large files such as movies etc. Obviously, inappropriate sites such as gambling and pornography must not be accessed. In fact access to these sites will result in a ban from usage.

Prior to use, each user will be required to complete a “Conditions of Use Form”. The internet kiosk is being initially set-up for a 12 month trial period, and it is expected that following this trial, the kiosk may be relocated into the Morwell RSL.

One of the Typical Computer Desktop background Screens showing icons and useful internet links _____________________________________________________________________________________

Saturday 13th October, 2012

The Morwell RSL Women’s Auxiliary PARTY PLAN DAY is in the Morwell RSL’s ANZAC Function Room from 1-00pm till 3-30pm. Come and get some great gifts.

Party Plan Entry is only $2.00. There will 25 tables displaying their wares including from bags, cosmetics, clothing, jewellery, kitchenware and stationary. Come and enjoy a fun afternoon topped off with raffles and a light afternoon tea. If you want more details, please contact Debbie Lougheed or Mary Gwynne by phoning the RSL on 5134 2455.

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Morwell RSL - Kitchen Upgrade

On 16th July, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, announced funding for 62 projects that will benefit the health and welfare of veterans across Australia. The funding was part of the Australian Government’s Veteran & Community Grants program, which provides support for ex-service and community organisations. One grant was awarded to the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch.

Our Sub-Branch received a grant of $28,414 from DVA to assist with an upgrade to the Victoria Cross Bistro’s kitchen. The funding has allowed the purchase of a gas convection cooker, refrigerators and stainless steel utility unit as part of a welcome kitchen upgrade. Admiring some of the updated kitchen facilities is Kitchen Manager, Mary Tourlidas and RSL President, Bruce Jeffrey _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Don’t Drink and Drive I would like to share an experience with you about drinking and driving. As you may know, over the years, some of us have been known to have had brushes with the authorities on our way home after having a few too many at the odd social drinking session.

A couple of weeks ago, I was out for a few drinks with some friends and had a few too many beers and some rather nice red wine. Knowing full well I may have been slightly over the limit, I did something I've never thought of, or done before, I took a bus home. Sure enough I passed a police roadblock, but I guess, as it was a bus they waved it past.

I arrived home safely without incident, which was a real surprise, as I have never driven a bus before and am not sure where I got it from! If you know of anybody missing a bus please let me know so I can arrange to return it. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Saturday 1st December, 2012

The Morwell RSL Women’s Auxiliary ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR is in the Morwell RSL’s ANZAC Function Room from 10-00am till 2-00pm.

Come and get some early Christmas gifts.

Craft Fair Entry is only $2.00. There will also be a free, lucky door prize.

If you or anyone that you know is interested in conducting a stall at the market, please contact Debbie Lougheed or Mary Gwynne by phoning the RSL on 5134 2455.

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Another Boer War Veteran’s Grave

Recently the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch was notified of the burial of another Boer War Veteran and I’m guessing this won’t be the last. The Veteran is buried in an unmarked grave in the Gormandale Cemetery. Morwell Sub-Branch has again decided to research this report and if possible construct a suitable surround for the grave site and install a headstone plaque.

Our initial research has found the Veteran’s grave is that of Trooper Sydney Horsley and from Victoria’s Births, Deaths and Marriages, National Archives Australia and the Boer War Database, we have uncovered the following details:-

Trooper Sydney Horsley:-

Born - Williamstown, Victoria in 1877 (from Death Cert. - Registration No. 13556) (Birthplace is shown as Fitzroy in N.A.A. & Boer War Database)

Note - Sydney Horsley was adopted by his Cousin and Aunt whose surname (Horsley) he adopted. (His Mother’s Name was Betsy Pickett)

Died - 13th November, 1903, aged 26 years. (After he suffered from pneumonia for 3 weeks)

Buried - 15th November, 1903 in Gormandale Cemetery. Allotment G, Block 1 West (C of E)

Rank - Trooper. Regimental No. - 201

Served - 1 year and 3 months with 4th Victorian Imperial Bushmen. (4th Victorian (Imperial) Contingent).

Re-enlisted - Second Battalion, Australian Commonwealth Horse (Vic.) - 2ACH as Regt No. 2212 on 11th February, 1902 If you know of this family or any other detail relating to Trooper Horsley, please contact the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch on 03 5134 2455.

Think About These When chemists die, they barium. Jokes about German sausage are the wurst. How does Moses make his tea? Hebrews it. Broken pencils are pointless. When you get a bladder infection urine trouble. I tried to catch some fog, but I mist.

I used to be a banker, but then I lost interest. I got a job at a bakery because I kneaded dough. Haunted French pancakes give me the crêpes. Velcro! What a rip off! Venison for dinner again? Oh deer! Be kind to your dentist. He has fillings, too.

They told me I had type-A blood, but it was a Type-O. I know a guy who's addicted to brake fluid. He says he can stop any time. I stayed up all night to see where the sun went. Then it dawned on me. This girl said she recognized me from the vegetarian club, but I'd never met herbivore. I'm reading a book about anti-gravity. I just can't put it down. I did a theatrical performance about puns. It was a play on words. Did you hear about the cross-eyed teacher who lost her job because she couldn't control her pupils? What do you call a dinosaur with an extensive vocabulary? A thesaurus. I didn't like my beard at first. Then it grew on me. England has no kidney bank, but it does have a Liverpool. I dropped out of communism class because of lousy Marx. All the toilets in a Melbourne police station have been stolen. The police have nothing to go on. A cartoonist was found dead in his home. Details are sketchy.

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Vietnam Veteran’s Commemoration Day - Appeal & Services

Appeal:- Wayne Gwynne led and an enthusiastic group of volunteers in arranging this year’s recent appeal prior to Vietnam Veteran’s Commemoration Day, on the 18th August. The Morwell RSL Sub-Branch’s Women’s Auxiliary purchased a large number of very popular items, including new design badges, medallions and memorabilia. Wayne and his group then organised a great group of volunteers to sell the items at Mid Valley Shopping Centre and several other locations.

Thanks to the following groups who allowed, or assisted us to sell our items:-

Mid Valley Management & Williams the Shoemen, Morwell Bowling Club, Bank MECU Credit Union – Moe, Morwell & Traralgon, The Churchill Hotel, Ritchies Super IGA Supermarket – Churchill, Network Video – Morwell Traralgon Stock Supplies, Silvers Bar & Grill – Morwell, and Variform Pty Ltd – Morwell.

Thanks also to Wayne Bass and his staff together with 424 Squadron Air Cadets and all the other volunteers who assisted, including the following who sold large quantities of items:- Ron Randall who arranged to sell at Australian Paper, Don George and Danny Gallagher who organised sales at Yinnar and Churchill and Major Wendy Jeffrey who sold items at her workplace in Victoria Barracks, Melbourne.

Thanks also to the public for their generous support and donations to our Vietnam Veterans’ Commemoration Day Appeal. All profits from the appeal sales go towards Veterans’ Welfare.

Services:- Saturday 18th August was Vietnam Veterans’ Commemoration Day. A Service of Reflection was conducted at the Morwell Cenotaph by Bruce Jeffrey at 8.00am. 424 Squadron Air Cadets stood guard at the Cenotaph with our flags and Latrobe City Brass Band’s, Tina Thompson played the bugle. Wreaths were placed at the Cenotaph on behalf of the State and Federal Governments, Latrobe City Council, Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Local RSL Sub-Branches, Ex-Service Organisations, individuals, families and other local organisations including aboriginal and islander indigenous people.

Following the Dawn Service a fully subsidised buffet breakfast was provided in the Morwell RSL by Mary, Theo and staff. The $5 donation for the breakfast was donated to Veterans’ Welfare. Thanks to Mary and Theo and staff who started quite early to provide our breakfast.

After the Morwell Service and breakfast, veterans gathered with family and friends at ANZAC Memorial Park in Traralgon, where at 10-00am a commemorative service was conducted by Traralgon RSL president, Jim Saddington. The park commemorates veterans of the Vietnam War and in particular, the six local veterans who paid the supreme sacrifice and lost their lives during that war.

The ANZAC Memorial Park and surrounds were extremely neat and tidy and the Latrobe City Parks and Gardens staff must be congratulated for preparing the area in readiness for Vietnam Veterans’ Commemoration Day. Thanks to Ross Howell who also did some last minute tidying-up at the park. Vilnis Mitrevics, Ray Naidu, Kevin Crerar Councillors, Sharon Gibson, Bruce Lougheed Les Mayer at the Morwell Service and Kelly O’Callaghan lay a wreath on behalf of Latrobe City Council at Traralgon

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Morning Tea - Fundraiser

On Saturday morning, 19th May, the Morwell RSL Women’s Auxiliary organised a “Fundraiser Morning Tea” for Latrobe Regional Hospital’s Allied Health Paediatric Physiotherapy Unit.

About 80 people attended the morning tea which included scones made by Mary from our Bistro. The function raised a great total of $2500. This wonderful total was matched by the Sub-Branch’s welfare fund which resulted in a cheque for $5000. The cheque was presented by Women’s Auxiliary President, Mary Gwynne and Women’s Auxiliary Treasurer, Julie Bassett to Sarah French, from the hospital. The presentation was conducted during the Friday evening member’s prize draws.

The money raised will go towards providing the hospital with a support frame (pictured below) for children with challenging requirements. Two other generous Morwell RSL members also donated enough funds for the hospital to purchase two, special three wheeled tricycles for children to ride around the wards as part of their rehabilitation. Mary Gwynne, Sarah French and July Bassett Children’s Support Frame _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Quickies

• Paddy's racing snail is not winning races anymore. So he decided to take its shell off to reduce its weight and make him more aerodynamic. It didn't work, if anything it made him more sluggish.

• When you’re 90 years old, having sex is like playing billiards with a rope instead of a cue.

• Apparently women feel more comfortable undressing in front of men than they do in front of other women. They say that women are more judgemental, where of course men are just grateful.

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Who Does the Work

A Regiment’s Colonel was about to start the morning briefing with his staff. Whilst waiting for the coffee machine to finish brewing, the colonel decided to pose a question to all assembled. He explained that his wife had been a bit frisky the night before and he failed to get his usual amount of sound sleep. He posed the question of just how much of sex was “work” and how much of it was “pleasure?”

■ A Major chimed in with 75%-25% in favor of work. ■ A Captain said it was 50%-50%. ■ Lieutenant responded with 25%-75% in favor of pleasure.

There being no consensus, the colonel turned to the Private who was on mess duties and in charge of making the coffee, and asked for his opinion. Without any hesitation, the young Private responded, “Sir, it has to be 100% pleasure.” The colonel was surprised and, as you might have guessed, asked why. “Well, sir, if there was any work involved, the officers would have me doing it for them.”

Say no more! God Bless the Other Ranks....

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Briagolong Commemoration

On Sunday, 19th August, plaques commemorating Korean, Malaya - Borneo Veterans and Peacekeepers were unveiled at Briagolong. The plaques were installed on a commemorative wall in the ANZAC Park at the Briagolong War Memorial.

The plaques were installed after a funding grant; part of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Saluting Their Service grants, was awarded to the Briagolong RSL Sub-Branch.

The unveiling and dedication was attended by Morwell RSL Sub-Branch President, Bruce Jeffrey. Keith Tickner, who served with the RAAF in the Malayan Emergency, laid a wreath on behalf of the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch.

Australia's involvement in the Malayan Emergency began in 1950 with the arrival of the RAAF in Singapore. Infantry and support troops arrived later. The Malayan government officially declared the Emergency over on 31st July 1960, though Australian troops remained committed to anti-communist operations in Malaya until August 1963.

Lasting 13 years, the Malayan Emergency was the longest continuous military commitment in Australia's history. Thirty-nine Australians were killed in Malaya. Fifteen of these deaths occurred as a result of operations and 27 servicemen were also wounded. Keith Tickner laying wreath at Briagolong

Conscription For Old Blokes – Over 55 Years Old

I am over 60 and the Armed Forces thinks I'm too old to track down terrorists. You have to be between 17 and 55 years of age to join the Defence Forces in Australia. They've got things back-to-front. Instead of sending 18-year-olds off to fight, they ought to send us old guys. You shouldn't be able to join a military unit until you're at least 35. 18-year-olds think about sex every 10 seconds. Old guys only think about sex a couple of times a day, leaving us many more hours every day to concentrate on the enemy.

Young guys haven't lived long enough to be cranky, and a cranky soldier is a dangerous soldier. “My back hurts! I can't sleep, I'm tired and hungry.” We are impatient and maybe letting us kill some idiot that desperately deserves it, will make us feel better and shut us up for a while.

An 18-year-old doesn't even like to get up before 10-00am. Old guys always get up early to have a pee, so what the hell. Besides, like I said, I'm tired and can't sleep and since I'm already up, I may as well be up killing some fanatical idiot. If captured we couldn't spill the beans because we'd forget where we put them. In fact, name, rank, and serial number would be a real brainteaser.

Rookie training would be easier for old guys. We're used to getting screamed and yelled at and we're used to soft food. We've also developed an appreciation for guns. Some of us have been using them for years as an excuse to get out of the house, away from the screaming and yelling. They could lighten up on the obstacle course however. I've been in combat and never saw a single 20-foot wall with rope hanging over the side, nor did I ever do any push-ups after completing basic training. Actually, the running part is kind of a waste of energy, too. I've never seen anyone outrun a bullet.

An 18-year-old has the whole world ahead of him. He's still learning to shave, to start a conversation with a pretty girl. He still hasn't figured out that a cap has a brim to shade his eyes, not the back of his head. These are all great reasons to keep our kids at home to learn a little more about life before sending them off into harm's way. Let us old guys track down those dirty, rotten, coward terrorists. The last thing an enemy would want to see is a couple of million anoyed off old farts with attitudes and automatic weapons who know that their best years are already behind them.

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Morwell RSL – Victoria Cross Bistro

Special Meals, each with a specific theme, will be available in the Morwell RSL’s Victoria Cross Bistro, on each of the first four Wednesday evenings of the month, as follows:-

1st Wednesday - All-You-Can-Eat SEAFOOD Smorgasbord - $18.00 2nd Wednesday - SCHNITZEL Night - $12.00 3rd Wednesday - PARMA Night - $12.00 4th Wednesday - STEAK Night - $15.00

All these evening meals include soup, Salad Bar and a selection of sweets. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Victoria Cross Bistro – 6-00pm to 8-30pm

Friday evening Bistro meals now feature a selection of à la carte meals from the large menu above the Bistro Servery, together with a new smorgasbord selection.

There are also special meals that may be ordered from a “Specials Board”. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Wednesday and Friday Evenings

Prize draws are conducted in the Morwell RSL Sub- Branch’s Member’s Lounge every Wednesday and Friday evening. The evening prize Draws commence at 7-00pm.

All prize draws on Wednesday evening and the “Pot Club” on Friday are conducted by the Sub-Branch. The remaining draws on Friday evening are conducted by the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch's Women’s Auxiliary.

Prizes include, meat packs and vouchers, Coles vouchers, chooks, pot club and members draws.

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Entertainment Calendar – ( Shez’s GIG Guide ) – Duty Manager, Sheryl has organised the following entertainment for you all. Please support these evenings and have a great time.

SEPTEMBER

Saturday 1st - YESTERYEAR

Saturday 8th - ALEX JIVE BAND

Saturday 15th - Paddy O’Dowd & Band

* Sunday 16th - OLD TIME DANCE * ( Ken & Alice Rae - 2pm onwards. – Free )

Saturday 22nd - RECKLESS

Saturday 29th - THE ESQUIRES

OCTOBER

Saturday 6th - I. C. ROCK

Saturday 13th - FLASHBACKS

Friday 19th - WIZARDS of OZ ( RSL Darts Comp Weekend )

Saturday 20th - YESTERYEAR ( RSL Darts Comp Weekend )

Saturday 27th - HOUND DOGS “Halloween Fright Night” Fancy Dress with Prizes for Best Costume.

NOVEMBER

Saturday 3rd - BLACKHILL RAMBLERS

Saturday 10th - STEP BACK

Saturday 17th - RECKLESS

* Sunday 18th - OLD TIME DANCE * ( Ken & Alice Rae - 2pm until 4pm. – Free )

Saturday 24th - ALEX JIVE BAND _____________________________________________________________

Entertainment functions marked thus * will be held in the ANZAC Room ( The Big Function Room ), with Entry Charges as noted. All others will be held in the Members Lounge and are Free Entry. Starting times for these functions is around 8-00pm. Table Bookings:- Table bookings in advance will NOT be accepted for functions in the Members Lounge. However you may arrange a table on arrival, if one is available. Friday Night Entertainment returns in December on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of the warmer months.

Please check the latest “Gig Guide” at the Sub-Branch reception desk or contact the club by telephone on 5134 2455 in case there are any late changes to the entertainment calendar. The “GIG” guide is also shown on the Morwell RSL Website at www.morwell.rslvic.com.au

The OLD TIME DANCE with Ken and Alice Rae is a great afternoon’s entertainment. It’s on the Third Sunday of each month ( Except in October due to the RSL darts and snooker championships ). There is no charge for this entertainment, it’s in the ANZAC Function Room and IT’S FREE.

IMPORTANT: - Due to Health regulations, patrons are not allowed to bring food or beverages onto our premises for any function. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Grumpy Old Harold

Grumpy old Harold was sick and in the hospital and one particular nurse continually drove him crazy. Every time she came in, she would talk to him like he was a little child. She would say in a patronizing tone of voice, “And how are we doing this morning”, or “Are we ready for a bath”, or “Are we hungry?”

Old Harold had had enough of this particular nurse so one day at breakfast; he took the apple juice off the breakfast tray and put it in his bed side drawer. Later, he was given a urine bottle to fill for testing and you can guess where the juice went! The nurse came in a little later, picked up the urine bottle and looked at it. “My, it seems we are a little cloudy today”. At this, old Harold snatched the bottle out of her hand, popped off the top, and drank it down, saying, “Well, I'll run it through again, maybe I can filter it better this time”. The nurse felt sick! Old Harold just smiled!

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Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Articles regarding the Department of Veterans’ Affairs are extracts of media releases from the Department’s Minister. Originals are available on his website at http://minister.dva.gov.au/index.htm

Australia’s Worst Maritime Disaster Marked 70 Years On:-

A new memorial marking Australia’s worst maritime disaster, the sinking of the Montevideo Maru during the Second World War, was unveiled at a ceremony at the Australian War Memorial on 2nd July, 2012. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, and Minister for School Education, Peter Garrett, said today marks 70 years since 1,054 Australian prisoners of war (POWs) and civilians lost their lives in the tragedy. “I encourage all Australians to take some time today to pause and reflect on the service and sacrifice of the Australians who lost their lives, and the grief and suffering of the families and loved ones left behind,” Mr Snowdon said. “To ensure the families of those lost have a place of solemn reflection to forever honour their loved ones, the Gillard Government has provided $100,000 towards a national memorial. “The sinking of the Montevideo Maru is a tragic chapter in Australia’s wartime history and I hope, through this lasting tribute, Australians will continue every year to honour those lost.”

On 22 June 1942, 1,054 Australian POWs and civilians in Japanese captivity at Rabaul on the island of New Britain (now known as Papua New Guinea) boarded the Montevideo Maru. Unaware that the vessel was carrying Allied prisoners, on 1 July 1942 the United States submarine USS Sturgeon fired torpedoes at the Montevideo Maru, sinking the ship and killing all those imprisoned on board and most of the crew.

It was not until after the war in October 1945 that a nominal roll of those on board was uncovered. These records were presented to Australia by the Japanese Government earlier this year. “My grandfather Tom Garrett was one of those on board who lost their lives. He owned a coco plantation near Rabaul, the capital of New Britain, and was imprisoned by the Japanese army after they gained control of the island in January that year,” Mr Garrett said. “Like many other families, my family was not given the details of the sinking until the war had ended. They lived with three years of uncertainty before learning of my grandfather’s death. It’s hard to imagine the grief and trauma of those families who had no knowledge of their loved ones’ fate and no way of mourning their loss. Now 70 years on, it is fitting that we remember and honour those 1535 souls on the Montevideo Maru, who lost their lives a long way from home, and whose memory and sacrifice the nation can now cherish.”

The complete list of missing prisoners from the ill-fated Montevideo Maru has been digitised and will be available on the National Archives of Australia website www.montevideomaru.naa.gov.au from 2nd July, 2012. The translation of the list by the National Archives of Australia, over the past months, has revealed an additional civilian internee believed to have been onboard the Montevideo Maru, bringing the total number thought to have perished on board to 1,054. Veterans' Health Week:-

Veterans' Health Week 2012 will be held from 22nd to 28th October 2012 and provides an opportunity for veterans, war widows, widowers, current and ex-Australian Defence Force members and their families to participate, connect and influence the health and wellbeing of themselves and their friends. DVA is partnering with ex-service organisations (ESOs) and community groups to develop a program of fun and interactive Veterans' Health Week activities at a local level.

This year’s focus is on social inclusion—encouraging members of the veteran community to think about the importance of social inclusiveness on their health and wellbeing and consider making positive changes to their lifestyle to live a stronger, healthier and happier life. For veterans, social inclusion is about welcoming, accepting and including people into social groups and activities. Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Continued on page 12

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Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Continued from page 11 70 Years Since Australians Begin Battle For Kokoda:-

On 23rd July 2012, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, encouraged Australians to reflect on the contribution of those who fought and died on the Kokoda Track in 1942 in defence of Australia. “Today marks the 70th anniversary of the first encounter between Japanese and Australian forces on the Owen Stanley Ranges – a grueling and bloody battle fought during the Second World War that lasted more than four months,” he said.

Mr Snowdon said in the first engagement of the campaign more than 38 men of the Papuan Infantry Battalion and a platoon of Australians of the 39th Battalion skillfully ambushed an approaching Japanese advance party. The Japanese soldiers regrouped and, in the days following, continued to move inland towards Kokoda. After the fall of Kokoda on 17 September 1942, Australian troops conducted a fighting withdrawal as the Japanese advanced along the Kokoda Track almost to within sight of Port Moresby.

Mr Snowdon said over the four months, between July and November 1942, Australians fought in appalling conditions, in some of the world’s most difficult terrain, in their efforts to halt the Japanese on the Kokoda track. “In mid-September at Imita Ridge the Japanese thrust came to a halt and Australian forces compelled them to withdraw. “By mid-November, following more hard fighting, the Australians had reached the Kumusi River and the battle for the Kokoda Track was finally over. Overall, more than 600 Australians had died and over 1000 were wounded, but they were one step closer to Victory in the Pacific.” Overall, a further 15,000 Japanese and almost 1400 New Guineans died during the Papua New Guinea campaigns. 70 years Since the First Battle of El Alamein in Egypt:-

On Friday, 27th July, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, today encouraged Australians to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who participated in a critical campaign of the Second World War. Mr Snowdon said July marked 70 years since the first Battle of El Alamein in Egypt erupted in the deserts of North Africa in 1942. “The Battles of El Alamein were a turning point for the Allies in North Africa against the Germans and Italians which led to their final surrender in May 1943,” he said.

Mr Snowdon said the Australian 9th Division was at the heart of the battles at El Alamein between July and November 1942, following its significant role in the defence of Tobruk in 1941. “A series of Allied attacks were undertaken against the German and Italian enemy that would become known as the first Battle of El Alamein. Some were successful and others costly failures,” he said.

By early 1942, the struggle for North Africa had swung in favour of the enemy, pushing the Allies deep into Egypt. But on the dawn of 10th July 1942, the Allies launched a counter-attack; succeeding in retaking important high ground. Days of heavy fighting followed, spreading to other parts of the front. Members of the RAAF also assisted in repelling the counterattacks, as part of the Desert Air Force. On the night of 26th – 27th July, the 2/28th Australian Battalion attacked at Ruin Ridge, which was intended as a final attempt to break through the enemy lines. The Battalion was almost wiped out with a loss of 65 men and 490 captured. By the end of July, the fighting had died down and despite the losses; the Allies had possession of important high ground and had stopped the German and Italian drive into Egypt.

Mr Snowdon said this battle was significant in the lead-up to the final Battle of El Alamein which saw the Allied victory on 5 November 1942. The battles of El Alamein cost Australia dearly. More than 1,100 Australians were killed, more than 150 missing, over 3,500 wounded and more than 700 captured. “On the 70th anniversary of the start of these great battles in North Africa, I encourage Australians to honour the bravery, courage and sacrifice of those who served and died there and pay tribute to their crucial role in Allied Victory during the Second World War,” he said. Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Continued on page 13

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Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Continued from page 12 Vietnam Veterans Welcomes the Long Tan Cross to Australia:-

On Friday 17th August, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, joined the Governor-General, Her Excellency Quentin Bryce AC CVO, and veterans of the Vietnam War for the unveiling of the Long Tan Cross at the Australian War Memorial.

In 1969, the Long Tan Cross was installed at the site of the Battle of Long Tan, where 108 Australian and New Zealand soldiers primarily of Delta-Company 6RAR fought a pitched battle against more than 2,000 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong soldiers three years earlier. The battle saw the loss of 18 Australian soldiers and another 24 wounded, entering military history as an example of overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds, like the campaigns at Gallipoli, Tobruk, Kokoda and Kapyong.

The Australian War Memorial, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Australian Embassy in Vietnam have worked to secure the cross on loan from the Dong Nai Museum until April 2013. The loan of the cross coincides with the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam in country.

Next year will mark the 40th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between Australia and Vietnam. The Long Tan Cross is an important part of Australia’s military history, it represents not only those D-Company soldiers who were lost in the rain-saturated rubber tree plantation in 1966, but it symbolises the bravery and determination of all those who fought in Vietnam.

Vietnam Veterans’ Day held on Saturday, 18th August, gave all Australians a chance to pay their respects to the 521 Australians who died during the war, and to honour the Navy, Army and Air Force personnel who fought there. Almost 60,000 young men were sent to Vietnam, many of them conscripted into the armed forces. Those who returned often bore the physical and mental scars of conflict, many of which still persist today. Mr Snowdon encouraged all Australians to see the Long Tan Cross and pay due respect to the veterans of the Vietnam War. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. These articles regarding the Dept. of Veterans’ Affairs are extracts of media releases from the Dept’s Minister. Originals are available on his website - http://minister.dva.gov.au/media_releases.htm

If you would like additional information regarding these or any other topics that DVA are responsible for please do not hesitate to contact Michael or Phil at the DVA office, No.10 George Street Morwell, Wednesday to Friday or phone them anytime on (03) 5133 0177 or free call 1300 551 918.

Getting a Hairdryer Through Customs

Most of us are taught not to tell lies. However, instructors also advised that using a bit of imagination was OK to express the Truth differently without lying. Below is a perfect example of those teachings:- An attractive young woman on a flight from Ireland asked the Priest beside her, “Father, may I ask a favour?” “Of course child. What may I do for you”? “Well, I bought my mother an expensive hair dryer for her birthday. It is unopened but well over the Customs limits and I'm afraid they'll confiscate it. Is there any way you could carry it through customs for me? Hide it under your Robes perhaps”? “I would love to help you, dear, but I must warn you, I will not lie.” “With your honest face, Father, no one will question you”.

When they got to Customs, she let the priest go first. The official asked, “Father, do you have anything to declare”? “From the top of my head down to my waist I have nothing to declare”. The official thought this answer strange, so asked, “And what do you have to declare from your waist to the floor”? “I have a marvellous instrument designed to be used on a woman, but which is, to date, unused”. Roaring with laughter, the official said, “Go ahead, Father. Next please!”

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Jingle Bells in July

The Morwell RSL hosted a fully sold-out “Jingle Bells in July” function on Sunday, 15th July. The sell-out crowd in attendance was treated to a Christmas style luncheon, with roast pork and plum pudding being the favourite choices from a scrumptious menu of delicious foods.

There were lots of entertainment and the dance floor was a popular place for people to dance to the music supplied by Ken and Alice Rae. Of course Santa looked resplendent in his red and white suit. He had taken time-out from his busy schedule to drop in and his visit

Santa entertaining guests at “Jingle Bells in July” was well received by everyone.

The Morwell RSL thanked everybody who contributed to making the event such a success and for supporting the Morwell RSL’s welfare program. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Enquiries – Phone 5134 2455

Monday Afternoon

2 sessions of 15 games - $3.00 per book. Ticket sales from 10-30am Eyes Down at 12-00 noon Rolling Jackpot Prizes are subject to ticket sales

( Courtesy Bus Available ) – Tuesday Night

2 sessions of 15 games - $3.00 per book. Ticket sales from 6-00pm Eyes Down at 8-00pm Rolling Jackpot Prizes are subject to ticket sales

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

KOKODA TRACK EXPEDITION – Departs Gippsland 8th May 2013 Join Megan Harris from Harvey World Travel in Traralgon and No Roads Expeditions on this personally escorted adventure of a lifetime. This 10 day adventure includes 8 day walking expedition (inc. all meals), 2 nights accommodation in Port Moresby, international airfares with Qantas Airways and return coach transfers from Gippsland.

Highlights include a visit to Bomana War Cemetery.

Numbers are strictly limited, so call Megan Harris at Harvey World Travel today to book your place on this exclusive escorted holiday!

Harvey World Travel, 75 Franklin Street Traralgon, VIC 3844 Phone: 03 5174 7877

Email: [email protected] Licence No. 32321

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Service, Affiliate and Social Members of the Morwell RSL, together with their Guests

are invited to the

Sunday 28th October, 2012 ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Dinner commences at 5-00pm and includes a 3 Course Meal, Guest Speaker and Entertainment.

Cost is only $10.00 per Person and this year’s dinner will commemorate the 110th year since the end of the Boer War in South Africa. – 1899 to 1902.

Guest Speaker – Mr Peter Kemp ( Journalist and Boer War Historian )

Tickets are now available from the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch reception desk.

Purchase your tickets now. Seats for the dinner are limited to 180 and will sell quickly. Make up a table of 8 with your friends, or book your individual tickets.

Priority for seating will be in the following order, – Service, Affiliate and Social Members. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Member’s Reward System

Visitors to the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch will have noticed a new member’s rewards terminal in the foyer. This terminal is part of the new RSL members reward program. The RSL members reward program is a Victorian, state-wide program that will operate in a similar fashion to many other rewards programs.

Every time you enter a Sub-Branch in Victoria and swipe your membership card in the terminal or make a purchase in a Sub-Branch, you will have reward points added to your account. The reward points will be available for you to make purchases at any Sub-Branch you wish. The purchases may be food, beverages or merchandise.

The reward program is due to begin at the start of 2013. It is now in a testing and commissioning stage and we are ensuring all the necessary components are in place to make sure the system runs smoothly and efficiently. More information will be available before the rewards system’s final commissioning.

As an added bonus the RSL has also entered into an agreement to earn reward points at BP service stations and IGA supermarkets. The RSL state branch is also looking at other businesses that would like to come on-board with the program. RSL Manager Christine Hennessy & Jan Burgess at the new terminal

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Morwell RSL Sub-Branch Trading Hours

Clubrooms

Monday to Thursday, 10-00am to 1-00am

Friday & Saturday, 10-00am to 3-00am

Sunday, 11-00am to 12-00 Midnight

Victoria Cross Bistro

Every Day of the Week

Lunch - 12-00 noon to 2-00pm

Dinner - 6-00pm to 8-30pm

For reservations phone Mary on (03) 5135 3689

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LATROBE VALLEY TRAVEL

Latrobe Valley Travel is located at 4 Tarwin Street Morwell.

The Proprietor May Sennett is a Member of the Morwell R.S.L. Sub-Branch and together with her experienced staff is able to assist you with your entire travel requirements, from booking a hotel in Melbourne to your dream holiday overseas.

When planning your next holiday, visit Latrobe Valley Travel. They will organise all the details for you.

Telephone:- (03) 5134 1433 Facsimile:- (03) 5133 9325

Email:- [email protected] Licencee:- E.M. Sennett t/a Latrobe Valley Travel Licence No.:- 31427

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER - Information printed in this newsletter is either reprinted from other publications or is derived from other verbal or written notes. While efforts are made to verify the information, the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or the Sub Branch Committee and Management. Readers should not act or rely upon any matters or information contained or implied by this newsletter without checking its accuracy. No responsibility or guarantee is given or implied for any action taken by individuals or groups as a result of information contained within this newsletter and no liability will be accepted for any loss resulting from such use. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DON’T FORGET THESE EVENTS - Mark Your Calendar

Women’s Auxiliary Party Plan Day in the ANZAC Function Room Saturday, 13th October 2012 – 1-00pm till 3-30pm. – ( See details on page 3 )

Annual RSL Darts and Snooker Championships in the ANZAC Room,

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 19th, 20th & 21st October 2012.

Morwell RSL Veterans’ Dinner in the ANZAC Room Sunday, 28th October 2012 – 5-00pm. – ( See details on page 15 )

Remembrance Day – Service at the Morwell Cenotaph, Sunday, 11th November 2012. – Commencing at 10-40am.

Women’s Auxiliary Annual Craft Fair in the ANZAC Function Room

Saturday, 1st December 2012 – 10-00am till 2-00pm. – ( See details on page 4 ) ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Friday 16th Nov is the closing date for articles to be included in the next newsletter, December Edition.