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MORWELL RSL SUB-BRANCHNEWSLETTER

( QUARTERLY )

MARCH - MAY, 2011 LEST WE FORGET

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

E-mail: Enquiries@morwellrsl.com.au - 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, Julian Kessner,Paul Rayment, Julie Bassettand Val Giles

General Manager:-Dennis Cleary

Manager:-Christine Hennessy_____________________________________

Sub CommitteesAppeals:-Wayne Gwynne (Appeals Officer),Danny Gallagher (Deputy), andBruce Jeffrey

Welfare and Hospital HomeVisitations:-Val Giles (Co-ordinator) andWayne Gwynne (Deputy)

Pensions:-Joe Geddes, Adrienne Mitrevics,Ted Dunstan, and Don George

Newsletter & Web Site – Editor:-Graham (Beatle) Burgess

President’s Annual Report

The following report is an extract from the one our Sub-BranchPast President, Mal Bugg, presented at the AGM on 23rd

February, 2011. It is his report for the year ending 31st

December, 2010 and is included in this newsletter for the benefitof all those members who were unable to attend the meeting.

Members, my journey as President of this great RSL is almostover after 30 years in office. Looking back, it doesn’t seem thatlong but my body physically tells me otherwise. It has been atime of great highs and sadly some lows but that is part of thechallenge. I have been privileged to work with some wonderfulRSL people during this time, namely: the late Col Hower (afriendship I treasured so much), Tom Lawless (for his wisecounsel), the late Bob Low (without whose help, many of ourbuilding upgrades may not have taken place), the late Mike Hall,Keith Tickner, Bill Cox and Danny Gallagher (giving support atfunerals of members), Bruce Jeffrey and Wayne Gwynne (inAppeals), Martin Smith (as Manager), the loyal and trustworthy,Bill Hall (Treasurer during my 30 years as President), the presentManager Dennis Cleary supported by Christine Hennessy, SherylKnowles and all the staff and lastly the Administrative Officers,Liz Hotton, Laureen Blewatt, Berneice Neille and Val Taylor.

After 28 years of helping veterans and widows, I handed over thepension section to Joe Geddes. It is now in the great hands of Joeand his staff to carry on this worthy and ultimate role of RSLService. During the last 3 years Val Giles has been leading thewelfare section of great volunteers. Many times, their efforts gounnoticed and I say to them a big thank you. I must never everforget either the wonderful support I have received from ourWomen’s Auxiliary under the leaderships of the late DotBeckman, Pattie Cox and in recent years Adrienne Mitrevics andall the wonderful ladies in the Auxiliary. Only two who weremembers when I became President, Margie Knights and EdithMcGill are still serving.

In 1981 we were a club made up of a dance hall with billiardroom and dining room attached and would not rate against anylocal clubs in those days. We had the highest sales of beerconsumption of any hotel or club in Victoria but were alwaysbroke, because of poor management.

President’s Annual Report Continued on Page 2

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Women’s Auxiliary

President:-Adrienne Mitrevics

Senior Vice President:-Pat Sheahey

Vice President:-Lyn Priems

Secretary:-Ann-Maree Blackford

Treasurer:-Julie Bassett________________________________________________________

Courtesy BusThe Courtesy Bus is available toFULL MEMBERS of the MorwellRSL Sub-Branch. i.e. Service,Affiliate and Social Members.

The bus will pick you up fromyour Home, or any other Club andPub in Morwell or Churchill andbring you to the Morwell RSLSub-Branch. Return Journeys willonly be made from the Sub-Branchto your Home.

If you wish to come to the club inthe courtesy bus during the timesshown below, please telephone theSub-Branch on (03) 5134 2455.

The Courtesy Bus operates duringthe following times.

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

Wednesday:-5-00pm to midnight. With runs toChurchill at 6-00pm, 8-00pm and11-00pm

Friday:-5-00pm to 2-00am. With runs toChurchill at 6-00pm, 9-00pm and1-00am.

Saturday:-5-00pm to 2-00am. With runs toChurchill at 6-45pm and 1-00am.

President’s Annual Report - ( Cont’d from page 1 )

To the incoming President and committee, I hand over to you ingood stead one of the most modern and comfortable clubs inVictoria, particularly in RSL circles, and our heritage isparamount from the time you walk in the door, not like some ofour sister RSL’s. Remember do not get swallowed up entirely oncommercial issues because this is not what the RSL is all aboutand how often have I told certain members on the committee thisover the years. The commercial activities are important as ourincome stream but welfare and support to veterans and theirfamilies should always be the target to aim at.

Morwell RSL membership is now more than twice the size it waswhen I joined here in 1979. Our social and communitymembership has also doubled. The future of all Clubs is in thebalance for their ongoing survival. They will require good strongleadership and support from all members if we are to maintainour position of strength.

The annual audited statement declares in detail our trading andincome results and nothing is hidden from you. You will notethat in the last 12 months we have incurred a small nett operatingloss of approximately $5,000, which if you take into account thetrends of sales and gaming income of the last 12 months is nottoo bad. You will also notice that we have good cash reservesinvested for the future. You are fortunate as members and alwayshave been at Morwell RSL in my 30 years as President to havepresented to you the full financial figures good or bad by ourTreasurer. Well done Bill and Dennis with this report, it showsthey worked hard with all the committee to maintain our budgetthroughout the year.

President’s Annual Report Continued on Page 9

Within Our HeartsWe hold you close within our hearts, and there you will remain.

To be with us throughout our lives, until we meet again.

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

Our deepest sympathy is extended to their family and friends.

LEONARD J. BARNES - 23rd DECEMBER 2010

RONALD H. OSBORNE - 23rd JANUARY 2011

JOHN (Jack) L. EVANS - 17th FEBRUARY 2011

LEST WE FORGET.

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Annual General Meetings - Office Bearers

Sub-Branch - On Wednesday 23rd February, 2011 the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch held its AnnualGeneral Meeting. As previously advertised, nominations for committee positions were received between31st January and 11th February. 11 nominations for committee office bearers were submitted prior to themeeting, and there was no need for an election. ( The President’s Annual Report is printed on page 1. )

Congratulations to the following successful office bearers who will officiate for the next 12 months.

President:- - Bruce Jeffrey - Unopposed

Senior Vice President:- - Les Maher - Unopposed

Vice President:- - Wayne Gwynne - Unopposed

Secretary:- - No Nominations Received (Dennis Cleary appointed)

Treasurer:- - William (Bill) Hall - Unopposed

Committee - Ted Dunstan, Joe Geddes, Don George,Julian Kessner, Paul Rayment,Julie Bassett & Val Giles - Unopposed

Women’s Auxiliary - On Saturday 26th February the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch Women’sAuxiliary held their annual General Meeting and we congratulate the following office bearers who willofficiate for the next 12 months.

President:- - Adrienne Mitrevics Treasurer:- - Julie Bassett

Senior Vice President:- - Pat Sheahey Secretary:- - Ann-Maree Blackford

Vice President:- - Lyn Priems

ANZAC Day Tokens – Can You Sell?

ANZAC Day is nearly upon us, and once again I want to thank all those who volunteer each year to sellANZAC Day Tokens. Thanks, but we need you again. We already have a regular group of volunteerswho assist in selling Tokens, but additional sellers are always needed and appreciated.

Many of you may have already received a letter seeking your help to sell ANZAC Day Tokens. If youhave received a letter and wish to sell Tokens, please return the section listing your details to the RSL assoon as possible. If you did not receive a letter and wish to sell tokens for us, please contact thereception staff at the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch by phoning 5134 2455 or visit the RSL and leave yourname and contact details for me, Wayne Gwynne. I will then contact you and make the necessaryarrangements. We will be selling tokens between Monday 11th April and Saturday 23rd April.

Previous efforts have enabled our Sub-Branch to continually exceed our Token sales expectations and Ineed volunteers to make this year’s total another successful one. The only way we are able to achievethis, is by having sufficient numbers of volunteers out on the streets to “Man the Tins”. If you couldspare some time at one of our selling locations, or you could sell some ANZAC Day Tokens at your placeof employment, your time and effort would be greatly appreciated. Morwell selling locations will be atMorwell Post Office, Bunnings, Mid Valley Shopping Complex, Stockdale & Leggo and ColesSupermarket. In Churchill, at Ritchie’s IGA Supermarket, Café le Mac’s and Safeway Supermarket. InYinnar, at the Yinnar General Store and in Boolarra, at the Post Office.

All proceeds go to the RSL welfare funds, enabling them to help the older veterans and their families. AllANZAC Day Tokens $2-00 and over are Tax Deductible; the mounting card is your receipt.

Wayne Gwynne, Appeals Officer.

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Past President - Mal Bugg - New President - Bruce Jeffrey

Mal Bugg reported in the last newsletter, hisintention not to stand as President in the 2011Sub-Branch committee. As you may haveread in the article on page 3, our Sub-Branchnow has a new President in Bruce Jeffrey.

Having a different President other than MalBugg is something many of our membershave never experienced. Mal has enforced avery strict and honest rule over our Sub-Branch for the past 29 terms of Presidency.

Bruce joined the RSL in 1971, soon afterreturning from the Vietnam War, where heserved as an infantryman with 7th, 2nd and3rd Battalions, RAR. Bruce is married toLora and they have two daughters. Mal Bugg (right) handing over to Bruce Jeffrey

Bruce has been a dedicated and tireless worker for veterans and the Morwell RSL for the past 10 years orso. He will have a different style of leadership and we may notice some changes during his period ofPresidency. We ( the Morwell RSL members ) wish Bruce well whilst carrying out this important andresponsible position.

Following is a brief outline of Mal Bugg’s history and achievements whist with the Morwell RSL:-

Mal Bugg joined the Dandenong RSL Sub-Branch in 1974 as a Service member, prior to this he hadjoined as a Temporary member in 1964. In 1979, he was a builder, living at Beaconsfield, when hesecured some contracts in the Latrobe Valley Areas. He temporarily moved to Morwell in 1979 andtransferred his RSL membership to the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch. Soon after, Mal joined the committeeand soon after became President of the then quite active, Morwell RSL Angling Club.

In 1980 he and his wife Moria moved permanently to Hazelwood Road in Morwell and have not movedsince. During 1981, Mal was elected onto the committee of the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch and Club.During 1982 he became Junior Vice President and was installed as President at the Annual GeneralMeeting in September of that year.

Whilst a member of the Dandenong RSL, Mal became interested in assisting War Veterans with theirwelfare and pension claims. In 1981 Mal started to assist the welfare officers at Morwell and soonbecame a permanent “Welfare and Pensions Officer” and he is still assisting with veterans’ welfare.

In 1982 Mal Bugg was elected onto the Victorian RSL, State Council and then became a State ExecutiveMember of the Victorian Branch RSL, a position he held for 27 years. In 1983 Mal was elected to theposition of State RSL, Country Vice President. From 1985 to 2002 Mal was elected the State RSL JuniorVice President and then the Senior Vice President from 2003 to 2007.

In 1994 Mal was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his service to the Veteran Community.

During Mal’s period of Presidency at Morwell RSL he has overseen many important changes. Theseinclude four major refurbishments of the building, the introduction of Gaming machines, purchasingadjoining properties to allow building extensions and accommodation for our welfare and pension teamsand together with our treasurer Bill Hall ensured the Sub-Branch’s financial situation is healthy. He hasalso been very active in Welfare & Pensions, Veterans’ Affairs, Hospital Visiting, ANZAC & PoppyAppeals, Youth Activities, Mental Welfare, Membership, Social Activities and Commemorations.

Mal, thank you, from all of the Morwell RSL members, for your dedication and hard work. You havedirected our Sub-Branch into a position that will allow it to continue to improve for many years to come.

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ANZAC Day Souvenir Placemat

Each year, the Morwell RSL produces a free souvenir table placemat for it’s ANZAC Day Luncheon.The placemat at thisyear’s luncheon willcommemorates 100years of the RoyalAustralian Navy.

The picture shown is acomposite one madeup of paintings sourcedfrom the AustralianWar Memorial’s artcollection. It alsoshows a picture of ThePerth Mint’s silvercoin commemorating100 years of the RAN.

This composite picture will be the basis of the design on the ANZAC Day luncheon placemat.

The AWM’s paintings used for the placemat’s layout are, Unknown artist, Join the Navy for a GrandCareer ( c. 1948, ARTV00210 ), Doug Sealy, HMAS Vendetta ( 1986, ART28997 ), Charles Bryant, AE2 in the Sea of Marmora, April 1915 ( 1925, ART09016 ), Ray Ewers, Sailor ( 1964, ART40977 ) andRay Honisett, HMAS Hobart with the US Seventh Fleet off Vietnam, 1968 ( 1985, ART45009 )

Both the Australian War Memorial and The Perth Mint pictures are used with their approval.

The Perth Mint has also donated to us a 1oz silver, 100 years of the RAN, proof coin and badge set togive-away during the ANZAC Day luncheon. We thank them sincerely for their generous support.

See details about the ANZAC Day Service and Luncheon on page 23_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Power House Day Club

The Power House Day Club has resumed after a break during December and January. The Day Club hasbeen well attended so far this year. The members are enjoying fun and games together with a “GentleExercise” session and a two course meal. The members also have a great time chatting and enjoying cupsof tea or coffee. Cost for all of this is only a total of $8.00.

A successful Christmas party was organised in December and a great day was had by all who attended. Itincluded a Christmas dinner prepared by Mary, Theo and staff from our Victoria Cross Bistro.

New members are always welcome and you don’t need to be an RSL member to attend. You can simplyturn-up at 10-30am on any Tuesday. The Day club is on between 10-30am and 2-00pm every Tuesday.If you are interested and need more information please telephone the RSL on 5134 2455.

Man Drowns - A man was found dead in his home over the weekend. Detectives at the scenefound the man drowned in his bathtub. The tub had been filled with milk, sugar and cornflakes. Abanana was sticking out of his mouth and - Police suspect a cereal killer.

Pall Bearers - I went to the cemetery the other day and saw four pall bearers walking aroundwith a coffin. Three hours later they were still walking around with it. I thought to myself; “Theseidiots have lost the plot”.

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New President’s - Introduction

Members, I would like to introduce myself to any Morwell RSL Sub-Branch members who do not knowme. My name is Bruce Jeffrey. I joined the Victorian RSL in 1971 after serving as an infantryman inVietnam with the 7th 2nd and 3rd Infantry Battalions during 1970-71 and I’m very proud of my service.

First, I wish to thank our out-going President, Mal Bugg OAM for all the great work he has done duringhis long period as President and committeeman. Together with the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch members Iwish Mal and his wife Moria all the best for the future.

I believe the most important people in the RSL are our service members, as without them there would notbe an RSL. Our service members are admirably supported by our Affiliate & Social members who alsokeep the RSL alive. Another very important group, is our Women’s Auxiliary, they also do a great job insupporting us and I do congratulate them on their contribution. If any members would like to help themplease contact the reception desk and a representative from the Women’s Auxiliary will contact you.

I’m sure many people do not know about the great work our RSL Sub-Branch does for the community,such as:- Hospital visits, Veterans’ pensions & welfare, Day Club, Funerals, Purchasing equipmentfor our Hospital, Sporting club sponsorships and School scholarships.

The former President of the United States of America, John F. Kennedy said in his famous speech, “Asknot what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.” The same statement couldalso be used by our RSL, so members, if you can help, please offer your services.

Together with the new Committee’s assistance, I hope to complete my duties as your President in amanner acceptable to you all. If you have any concerns regarding the RSL or our Sub-Branch please feelfree to speak to a member of the committee or write a letter to the Sub-Branch Secretary, Dennis Cleary.

I hope all of our Members have a safe and enjoyable year.

Bruce Jeffrey, President.

Help A Mate

By God I’m tired but I mustn’t stop, If I do I’ll let him dropI found him there, against a tree, And I knew at once he couldn’t see.I fixed a blind to help his eyes, And we must get back before he dies.

He copped a blast, from God knows what, And now he’s in a state of shock.

“Now lift your feet you crazy coot, Forget that that’s in your boot.Hup, two, three, it isn’t far, Pretty soon you’ll be able to front the bar.

That’s when I’ll bludge and let you shout, You can owe me that till we get out.I don’t know your name but I’ll call you mate, You bastard, you are a hell of a weight”.

By gee, I’m tired this mud is so thick, “Stand up straight and use that stick.You won’t mind if it has a head, And think of those sorts, while you bludge in bed.

They’ll blow your nose and wipe your bum, Not far now, so come on chum.Step it out and don’t you fail, We’ve reached the end of this bloody trail”.

I’m so bloody tired, but I feel great, It’s been a pleasure to help a mate.

Ken Foot - 1942

Nasho’s 60th Anniversary

All National Servicemen, partners, relatives and friends are invited to Australia’s largest event to markthe NASHO’S 60th Anniversary to be held at Townsville North Queensland from 8th to 11th Sept. 2011.Any enquiries should be directed to the National Servicemen’s Assn. of Australia. Phone 07 3324 1277

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Beatle’s Bit

Australia Day Breakfast - The following details regarding the Morwell Rotary Club’s annualAustralia Day Breakfast at the Morwell RSL was kindly supplied by Gloria Auchterlonie.

At 8-15am on Australia Day the Morwell RSL conducted a “Flag Raising Ceremony” outside the RSL.This was followed by the Rotary Club’s annual “Australia Day Breakfast” in the RSL’s ANZACFunction Room. It was nice to liaise with Members and Management of the RSL and provide theAustralia Day Breakfast once again. Over 120 people attended and enjoyed a lovely cooked breakfast,thanks to Mary and Theo. We all sat in air-conditioned comfort, whilst being entertained by members ofthe Latrobe City Brass Band and D.J. Mike Kitwood.

Avis McInnes ( and helpers ) sold enough raffle tickets to cover costs and her Dad, David McInnes, soldthe “Aussie Pride” lapel badges which our Rotary Club is selling to raise funds for flood victims.Everyone who attended was presented with a free “Herald Sun” Australia Day hat. These freebies wereorganised and supplied by Ray and Jeanette Burgess who are the proprietors of the Morwell Newsagencyin Commercial Road.

Rotary Club President, Mark Reidy, did the honours this year as MC and kept the ball rolling nicely.There were also various lucky-spot and competition prizes awarded during the function.

Thanks everyone for attending and helping. I hope you all enjoyed it. - Gloria.

Severe Weather Event - On Friday evening, 4th February a severe storm went through parts ofMorwell. The storm’s most severe path seemed to travel along Elgin Street in the vicinity of the MorwellRSL. Several large trees near the RSL were blown over and during the height of the storm it was difficultto see across Elgin Street due to the extremely heavy rain. Trees in the centre medium strip were alsobending over at a very low angle due to the wind. Some limbs were blown off and luckily, narrowlymissed damaging parked cars. Rain was being driven in through the main front entrance doors but ourRSL only suffered some minor water damage. At the height of the storm an air conditioner cover wasalso blown off the roof. The cover landed in the rear car park but did not strike any vehicles.

During the storm which lasted about half an hour, electricity was cut from the area. Our Sub-Branch hasemergency lighting and this automatically came on to give a small but adequate amount of lighting. Marysupplied candles to the tables in the bistro and this gave a calming effect to those still eating.

Sheryl Knowles ( Shez ) was the Manager at the time of this weather related emergency. It was pleasingto see her organising and reassuring patrons and staff during this difficult period. She was certainly ableto work under pressure without showing any signs of stress or panic. Well done Shez.

Dark and Stormy Night

It was a dark, stormy, night. The Sailor was on his first assignment, and it was guard duty. A Captainstepped out taking his dog for a walk. The nervous young Seaman snapped to attention, made a perfectsalute, and snapped out ," Good Evening, Sir!"

The Captain, out for some relaxation, returned the salute and said "Good evening Seaman, nice night, isn'tit?" Well it wasn't a nice night, but the Sailor wasn't going to disagree with the Captain, so he salutedagain and replied "Yes Sir!".

The Captain continued, "You know there's something about a stormy night that I find soothing, it's reallyrelaxing. Don't you agree?" The Seaman didn't agree, but then the seaman was just a seaman, andresponded " Yes Sir!"

Then the Captain, pointing at the dog said, "This is a Golden Retriever, the best type of dog to train."The Seaman glanced at the dog, saluted yet again and said " Yes Sir!" The Captain continued "I got thisdog for my wife." The Seaman simply said, "Good trade Sir!"

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Morwell RSL - Awards to Local Students

During December 2010 our Committee Members made presentations of Morwell RSL Sub-BranchEducational Awards and Scholarships to local students. Twelve of the awards were “Bill Brannan”Education Awards and one was a Sir Edward “Weary” Dunlop Scholarship. Congratulations to them all.

The Bill Brannan Education Awards to Grade 6 students, were awarded to:-

Charmaine Cook - ( Morwell Park Primary )Wade Allan - ( Tobruk Street Primary )Rosemary Carter - ( Lumen Christi Primary )Gemma Laidlaw - ( Churchill North Primary )Jayde O’Donnell - ( Hazelwood North Primary )Brandon Mayberry - ( Commercial Road Primary )

Emma Jonkers - ( Yinnar Primary )Storm Caldwell - ( Boolarra Primary )Jasmine-Rose Carrigy - ( Morwell Primary )Dianne Gibson - ( Churchill Primary )Aaron Agustin - ( St Vincent’s Primary )Mary-Jane Vernier - ( Sacred Heart Primary )

____________________________________________________________________________________________

The Sir Edward “Weary” Dunlop Scholarship for a year 11 student, was awarded to:-

Keisha McQuillan – ( Kurnai College - Senior Campus )____________________________________________________________________________________________

Who was Bill Brannan? - Bill Brannan, an orphan who was born in England in 1918, never everknew his parents or his relatives. He started work in a coalmine at age 13 and when he was 17 years oldhe joined the British Army to serve in the United Kingdom and Europe during World War II. He wasilliterate in every sense of the word, being unable to write or read.

After WWII, in 1946 he migrated to Australia and joined the Australian Army where he served as avehicle mechanic and after taking discharge in 1950 he moved to the Latrobe Valley and worked for theState Electricity Commission as it was then. He retired in 1983.

Bill was a very generous man and although he had no family, was loved by all he met. Just before hedied in 1986 he requested that the Morwell RSL invest some money he had accumulated over his lifetime.The interest this money generated each year would then be used to give Education Grants to the PrimarySchools in Morwell, Churchill, Yinnar, Hazelwood North and Boolarra. Bill requested that the awards begiven to a chosen student in Grade 6 who was about to commence his or her secondary education. Hewanted to ensure that educational assistance is given, where possible, so that the recipient students couldbe taught to improve their ability to read, write and comprehend English, which he could never do.

Who was Sir Edward “Weary” Dunlop? - Sir Edward "Weary" Dunlop was a surgeon inthe Australian Army during World War Two. He is famous as a prisoner of War on the Burma Thailandrailway and the care he took of soldiers who had also been taken prisoner by the Japanese. Even in themost horrible conditions Dunlop found the energy to fight for the health and the lives of these men.

“Weary” served with the Citizen Forces and as a Captain in the Royal Australian Army Medical Corp.He studied at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London and obtained his Fellowship of the Royal College ofSurgeons. “Weary” was working in London at the outbreak of World War II and in November 1939 heenlisted in the 2nd A.I.F. When War in the Pacific began Dunlop's unit was transferred to Java. He waspromoted to Temporary Colonel and given command of No. 1 Allied General Hospital at Bandoeng. On8th March 1942 the island fell to the Japanese and Dunlop became a prisoner of war. After beingimprisoned in Java and Singapore, Dunlop was transported to Thailand by the Japanese in January 1943.

For the rest of the war, under Japanese control, “Weary” worked as a medical officer on the BurmaThailand railway. The men under his charge suffered in extremely primitive conditions and “Weary”became famous for his care of the ill and his willingness to place himself at risk, despite being unwellhimself. As a commander, “Weary” had the awful job of deciding who was fit enough to work. As asurgeon, he was also the one who patched the men when they were injured. “Weary” and the men whosurvived with him remained captive until 16th August 1945. “Weary” then assisted with the evacuation offormer POW’s and he returned to Australia in October 1945 and even though they were most horrible tothe prisoners, “Weary” forgave the Japanese soldiers.

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President’s Annual Report - ( Continued from page 2 )

Besides donations to worthy groups and charities, our local Hospital and Nursing Homes, 13 schoolscholarships to Primary students and 1 Tertiary Education Grant, a Cadet Flying Scholarship andassistance to our Cadet Units and our own RSL Junior Football Club, Portsea RSL Children’s ChristmasCamp, kindred organisations and many others, we can clearly show to our members and the community,we support local organisations more than any other Club in the area with the exception of Leongatha RSLwhich is like ourselves. This clearly demonstrates to all where a large part of our profits go. Much of thisis also supported by our great Women’s Auxiliary which many RSL’s are very envious of.

Another great activity we have is the “Powerhouse Day Club” under the co-ordination of Rosa and StanSchumann, with Bruce Jeffrey as Treasurer, Maureen Kemp, Gloria Hoppe, Val & Lyndon Giles andmany others who help keep it running. It certainly is providing a great level of support and entertainmentfor its members of all ages and those in the community who come along each week to join in. It is awonderful opportunity for many to have a great social day out and also have a great meal at a very lowcharge. We also thank Mike Mihaly and DVA for their support in helping to arrange funding for us topurchase equipment to get the club off the ground and keep it going.

In 2009 we saw our Appeals Officer Wayne Gwynne ably supported by Bruce Jeffrey with TerryBlackford and Danny Gallagher and many of the 100 great helpers from Morwell, Yinnar and Churchillachieve great results. The results for the 2010 ANZAC & Poppy Appeals in Morwell, Churchill andYinnar were a big increase on 2009. From this our welfare funds benefited greatly. To all in theAppeals’ Team, a job well done but let’s chase another record breaker in 2011.

Also to Graham (Beatle) Burgess and those who help him in the production and mail out of our newsletterplease accept our appreciation. It was great to see members like Bruce Jeffrey, Ross Howell, DaleSinclair, and Terry Blackford helping. We thank you all for helping to get the newsletter mailed to us.To Graham, thanks also for all the other great work you do including our website which is one of the bestin RSL circles. One of the greatest thrills I got this year was to present to Bruce and Graham their LifeMemberships on ANZAC Day 2010.

Again in 2010, Australia Day saw around 120 RSL, Rotarian members and the community join in theAussie Breakfast and this too was enjoyed by all. The MC on the day, Paul Violi did a great job andGloria Auchterlonie is to be congratulated on setting it up.

Also I would like to say a particular big thanks to our Senior Vice President Les Maher, who supportedme 110% whenever called on and also the total loyalty he has given to me, something one expects froman Old Gunner Mate who I have known for a long time.

In closing this year’s report I wish lastly to thank my wife Moria, who in recent years has not enduredgood health but always stood by me through thick and thin, many times sacrificing hers and our family’stimes for me to do my role of RSL service. This has been her sacrifice over 48 years of my membershipin the League at Dandenong and Morwell and I say a big thank you for the love and support you havegiven, allowing me to complete my role as President of this great Sub Branch Morwell. You have beenthe quiet supporter in the background and this has been respected by all members you have embraced.

I go out of office now as I came into it 30 years ago, with my loyalty and love to the RSL that I believein. That is the way I wish to retire and I ask for no accolades from anyone.

Mal Bugg. OAM. - President.

My Living Will

Last Night, my kids and I were sitting in the lounge room watching a TV show about dementia and oldage. I said to them, “I never want to live in a vegetative state, dependent on a machine and fluids from abottle. If that ever happens to me, please just pull the plug.”

They got up, unplugged the computer and poured my wine down the sink - Little wretches.

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Morwell Town Thoroughfare Names

In the September 2010 newsletter, I wrote about my research relating to Morwell thoroughfare namesthat may have links to the Armed Forces. The following article is the first of several that lists some ofthose thoroughfare names and some details about what they commemorate. The ships history wasextracted from articles on the Royal Australian Navy, Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the AustralianWar Memorial websites.

The following three streets are most likely named to commemorate Naval ships.

Brisbane Street :- Named to commemorate WWI ship, HMAS Brisbane.

HMAS Brisbane was a Town class light cruiser of the Royal Australian Navy. Built by Cockatoo IslandDockyard in Sydney between 1913 and 1916 to the Chatham subtype design, Brisbane operated in theIndian Ocean, Pacific Ocean and Australian coastal waters during World War I. Following the end of thewar, the cruiser was decommissioned and recommissioned on several occasions, and was reclassified as atraining ship in late 1925. In 1935, Brisbane was reactivated for the specific purpose of conveying theship's company of the new cruiser HMAS Sydney to their ship in Britain. Brisbane was decommissionedin Portsmouth, England on 24th September 1935. In June 1936, Brisbane was sold to Thomas Ward &Company for £19,215 (Australian) to be broken up. The cruiser was scrapped at Briton Ferry, Wales.

Perth Street :- Named to commemorate WWII ship, HMAS Perth.

HMS Amphion was commissioned at Portsmouth on 15th June 1936 and cruised to South Africa inOctober 1936. The Cruiser spent the next two years as Flagship on the Africa station, based on the Capeof Good Hope. Her mid-commission refit was undertaken at Simonstown in the late autumn of 1937.Amphion proceeded to Portsmouth in December 1938 to pay off for another refit.

Following an agreement between the British and Australian Governments for the purchase of Amphionfor the RAN, it was decided to transfer the ship in 1939. Subsequently the cruiser HMAS Adelaide paidoff her crew, who were to man this new addition to the RAN. On 29th June 1939 the cruiser wascommissioned into the RAN at Portsmouth as HMAS Perth. When war appeared imminent at the end ofAugust 1939 the ship was in the West Indies. For most of the next seven months Perth carried out escortand patrol duties in the West Indies and Western Atlantic.

In March 1940 Perth sailed for Sydney and most of April was taken up by a refit. Until the end ofNovember 1940, Perth was engaged in patrols and escort work around Australia until she left Fremantleas an escort for the seventh Middle East convoy. Whilst in port at Malta, Perth was damaged by a nearmiss in an air raid. In April Perth participated in the evacuation of troops from Greece to Crete. In April1941, Perth 's aircraft was shot down off Suda Bay, but its crew of three was rescued by a destroyer. InMay 1941 enemy aircraft succeeded in damaging the ship by a near miss.

During a stay at Alexandria in May urgent repairs were carried out. Perth then sailed for Crete to assist inthe evacuation, being attacked en route by a German aircraft but fortunately escaping damage. During thereturn from Crete with 1188 passengers aboard Perth the convoy was attacked five times and on 30 Maythe ship was hit by a bomb in a boiler room. Two cooks, two sailors and nine passengers were killed andthe boiler room was put out of action. In August 1941, Perth arrived back in Sydney and moved toCockatoo Dockyard for an extensive refit. After completion of her refit Perth was engaged in exercisesin November and then sailed for Auckland. She carried out patrols, escort duties, exercises andmanoeuvres during December 1941 and January 1942, visiting New Caledonia and New Guinea.

In February 1942, Perth sailed for the Java Theatre. On 26th February the ship departed Surabaja incompany with two Dutch cruisers, the cruisers USS Houston and HMS Exeter, two Dutch destroyers, fourUS destroyers and HM Ships Jupiter, Electra and Encounter and proceeded along the north coast ofMadura Island. During the night of 27th February these ships engaged Japanese forces in the disastrousBattle of the Java Sea, from which only Perth and Houston survived.

Morwell Town Thoroughfare Names – Continued on page 11

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Morwell Town Thoroughfare Names – Continued from page 10

HMAS Perth and USS Houston arrived at Tandjung Priok on 28th February after the day and nightactions off Surabaja. Unfortunately stocks of fuel were low and Perth could only receive 50% of fullstowage. Preparations were being made to destroy all warehouses and harbour installations, so theopportunity was taken to embark any stores that might prove useful. Orders were received to sail inthrough Sunda Strait to Tjilatjap. Perth and Houston cast off at 1900 hours and the harbour entrance waspassed at 1900 hours and a course set for Sunda Strait. Houston was stationed five cables ( about 926metres ) astern of Perth.

At 2306, a vessel was sighted about five miles close in to St Nicholas Point. When challenged she provedto be a Japanese destroyer and was immediately engaged. Shortly afterwards, other destroyers weresighted to the north and the armament split so as to engage more than one target. During the action alarge number of enemy destroyers attacked from all directions, and due to the large number of enemyships attacking, it was impossible to engage all targets at once and some were eventually able to close to avery short range.

Little damage was caused to Perth until the very end of the action. At about midnight it was reported thatvery little 6" ammunition was left, so Captain Waller decided to attempt to force a passage through SundaStrait. He ordered full speed and altered course for Toppers Island. Perth had barely steadied on coursewhen she was struck on the starboard side by a torpedo. Captain Waller gave the order to prepare toabandon ship. A few moments later another torpedo struck just ahead of the first hit, and the Captaingave the order to abandon ship. After five or ten minutes a third torpedo struck well aft on the starboardside. This was followed shortly afterwards by a fourth torpedo, which hit on the port side. The ship thenrighted herself, heeled over to port and sank about 0025 on 1st March 1942.

USS Houston was still fighting although badly on fire. She was hit by torpedoes and sank shortlyafterwards rather closer inshore. A Japanese report gave the Japanese losses as “one mine-sweeper andone transport of convoy sunk and several vessels seriously damaged”.

Most of Perth 's crew abandoned ship between the second and third torpedoes. During the abandon shipoperation Perth was under fire from several destroyers at close range and many hits were scored andcasualties caused. Many were killed or wounded in the water by the explosion of the last two torpedoesand by shells exploding in the water.

At the time of her loss Perth 's ship's company totalled 681, comprising 671 Naval personnel, six RAAFpersonnel (for operating and servicing the aircraft) and four civilians (canteen staff). Three hundred andfifty Naval personnel (including Captain Waller) and three civilians did not survive the sinking. Thosewho did, numbered 328 (324 Naval, three RAAF and one civilian).

Four Naval personnel died ashore without having been taken prisoner. A further 106 men died incaptivity (105 Naval, one RAAF). Four sailors were recovered from captivity in September 1944 whenthey were among prisoners-of-war rescued after the sinking of a Japanese transport. After the end ofhostilities 214 men (211 Naval, two RAAF and one civilian) were repatriated to Australia.

Sydney Street :- Named to commemorate WWII ship, HMAS Sydney.

After being laid down in 1933 for the Royal Navy as HMS Phaeton, Sydney was purchased ( beforelaunching ) by the Australian Government in 1934 and renamed in memory of the earlier Sydney (I) thatdestroyed the German cruiser Emden in 1914.

The ship was commissioned at Portsmouth on 24th September 1935, and spent the early part of her careeron the Mediterranean Station taking an active role in the Abyssinian crisis. Arriving in Australia duringAugust 1936 Sydney remained in home waters until the outbreak of war and was in Fremantle on the daywar was declared. Sydney remained on local patrol duties until April 1940 when she sailed fromFremantle as part of the escort for a large Middle East bound convoy. She parted company in the mid-Indian Ocean and arrived in Colombo on 8th May 1940.

Morwell Town Thoroughfare Names – Continued on page 12

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Morwell Town Thoroughfare Names – Continued from page 11

On 19th May 1940 Sydney proceeded to the Mediterranean where she joined the 7th Cruiser Squadron ofthe Mediterranean Fleet in Alexandria. Here Sydney experienced her first action when she took part inthe bombardment of Bardia on 21st June 1940. A week later Sydney, in company with other ships of theSquadron, encountered three Italian destroyers. The action that followed was fought at dusk in fastfailing light and two of the destroyers succeeded in evading the Allied cruisers. Sydney 's role in thisaction consisted chiefly of finishing off the remaining destroyer Espero and rescuing 47 Italian survivors.

In July 1940 Sydney returned to Alexandria, where she proceeded as part of the covering force for Maltaconvoys, before joining the Mediterranean Battle Fleet. Following a period of severe air attacks ( four ofthem directed at Sydney), that were successfully beaten off, she then took part in the first full-scale actionwith the Italian Fleet; the Battle of Calabria on 9th July.

On 19th July, Sydney fired 956 shells in an action that sank the Italian cruiser Bartolomeo Colleoni in thewaters just north of Cape Spada, Crete. During this action Sydney was hit in the foremost funnel andsuffered only one minor casualty. Sydney continued in action against the Italian convoys and participatedin bombardments of the Libyan coast before leaving Alexandria in January 1941 for Australia.

Arriving in Sydney, the ship’s commanding officer, Captain John Collins, and his crew were greeted byenthusiastic crowds and given a civic reception. Their success at Cape Spada had made them “the toast ofthe country”. After undergoing a refit in Sydney, HMAS Sydney sailed for the west coast of Australiawith a new commanding officer, Captain Joseph Burnett.

During 1941, the cruiser carried out escort and patrol duties in the Indian Ocean and around Australianwaters. In November, on one such patrol, she escorted the troopship Zealandia to the Sunda Strait whereshe handed her over to HMS Durban. On 17th November, HMAS Sydney sailed south for Fremantle.

Two days later, on 19th November, and according to the German raider, Kormoran accounts, Sydneysighted the Kormoran, disguised as a Dutch merchant ship, approximately 240 kilometres south-west ofCarnarvon, Western Australia, and both ships altered course. The Kormoran increased engine speed on areverse course while the Sydney headed towards the raider. When the Kormoran was asked to identifyitself it instead hoisted the signal identifying the ship as the Straat Malakka but, unable to read the flags,Sydney sent another signal requesting that they hoist the signal letters more clearly. The commandingofficer of Kormoran, Commander Theodor Detmers, was unable to respond to the Sydney’s request forthe Straat Malakka’s secret signal. As the distance between the two ships narrowed he apparently struckthe Dutch flag, hoisted the German colours and, already at action stations, fired at the ill-preparedAustralian cruiser at almost point-blank range. The Sydney’s bridge and director tower were hit withinseconds and for 30 minutes the two ships fired guns and torpedoes at each other.

By 6.00 pm, the crippled Sydney sat low in the water with its forward area ablaze as it staggered awayfrom the enemy. At 6.25 pm, despite their own difficulties, the Germans fired one last shot at thedeparting Australians who by now were about 10 kilometres away. Commander Detmers thenconcentrated on abandoning his own ship, sending most of the crew off by 9.00 pm. At midnight, the lastof the crew cast off after igniting scuttling charges and the Kormoran sank half an hour later.

The first serious attempts to locate the cruiser were not organised until 24th November when Sydney wasfour days overdue. That same evening a British tanker crew reported they had rescued 25 Germanseamen from a raft. During subsequent land and sea searches off Carnarvon 315 more of the Kormoran’screw of 393 officers and men were rescued. A badly damaged RAN Carley float ( life raft ), and twolifebelts are all that were recovered from the Sydney.

The final hours of the Sydney and the fate of the 645 men on board remains controversial. The Kormoransurvivors have consistently maintained that the ship drifted off into the distance and that the finalflickerings of the burning Sydney disappeared about midnight.

On 17th March 2008, the wreck of the Sydney was finally located. It was approximately 12 nautical milesfrom Kormoran, under 2,470 metres of water. The search first focused on finding the German raiderKormoran which was located on 12th March approximately 112 nautical miles off Steep Point, WesternAustralia, lying in 2,560 metres of water.

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Footy Tipping Competition

The Morwell RSL Footy Tipping Competition is on again for the 2011 AFL Football season.Competition tipping cards will be supplied on entry and you must enter before round one, onThursday 24th March. Entry fee is $30.00 and this must be paid in full before round three,on Friday 8th April.

Prize money will be paid for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and last placed entrants at the end of round 22,the last “home and away” round. If there are multiple winners with the same score, prizemoney will be divided evenly between those winners. ( Prize values to be decided whenthe number of entrants is known. )

On the competition cards there are games marked thus,*. These are the “Match of the Round”and on these games you must enter your estimate of the winning team’s margin in pointsbetween the two teams. The entrant with the closest estimate of the winning margin willwin a prize of $50.00. If there are multiple winners with the same winning margin,prize money will be divided evenly between those winners.

Please see bar-staff members, Rob or Ron at the Members Lounge Bar if you wishto take part, or want more details.

Be Careful with the Lodger

A couple in England took in an 18-year-old girl as a lodger. She asked if she could have a bath but thewoman of the house told her they didn't have a “built-in” bath but if she wanted to she could use a tin bathin front of the fire, as we do. “Monday's the best night, when my husband goes out to darts,” she said.

The girl agreed to have a bath the following Monday. After her husband had gone to the pub for his dartsmatch, the woman filled the bath. She was surprised to see that the lass didn't have any pubic hair. Shementioned this to her husband when he came home. He didn't believe her, so she said; “Next Monday,don’t go to darts. I'll leave a gap in the curtains so you can see for yourself.”

The following Monday, when the young girl again got undressed, the wife asked; “Do you shave?”“No,” replied the girl. “I've just never grown any hairs down there. Do you have hair?” “Oh, yes,” saidthe woman, and she showed the girl that indeed, she was far from hairless.

When the girl went to bed, the husband came in, and the wife asked; “Did you see it?” “Yes,” he said,“but why the hell did you have to show her yours?” “Why not?” she said, “you've seen it before.” “Iknow,” he said, “but the darts team hadn't!!”

Pilot Humour

1. Every takeoff is optional. Every landing is mandatory.

2. If you push the stick forward, the houses get bigger. If you pull the stick back, they get smaller.That is, unless you keep pulling the stick all the way back, then they get bigger again.

3. Stay out of clouds. The silver lining everyone keeps talking about might be another aeroplanegoing in the opposite direction. Reliable sources also report that mountains have been known tohide out in clouds.

4. Helicopters can't fly; they’re just so ugly the earth repels them.

5. The four most useless things to a pilot are the altitude above you, runway behind you, fuel back atthe airport, and a tenth of a second ago.

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Death of Gurkha VC

Havildar Lachhiman Gurung VC, aged 92, 8thGurkha Rifles, died on 12th December 2010 at theChiswick War Memorial Homes in London. Hewas living and being cared for there by hisgranddaughter Amrita. He won the Victoria Crosswhile serving with the Gurkha Rifles in Burma in1945. Lachhiman Gurung was buried in ChiswickNew Cemetery, Staveley Road, Chiswick, WestLondon, on Thursday, 23rd December 2010.

In recent years he had been a prominent figure inthe campaign led by the actress Joanna Lumley toallow former Gurkhas to settle in Britain. In 2008 Lachhiman Gurung moved from his native Nepal tolive in the United Kingdom settling in Hounslow, to which he was formally welcomed at a ceremony ledby the mayor and the council: he was later made a Freeman of the Borough. He attended many functionsof the Nepalese communities in Hounslow and elsewhere, and was honorary vice-president of theChiswick branch of the Royal British Legion.

For the award of the Victoria Cross:- ( London Gazette, 27 July 1945 ), Taungdaw, Burma.

At Taungdaw, in Burma, on the west bank of the Irrawaddy, on the night of 12th / 13th May 1945,Rifleman Lachhiman Gurung, 8th Gurkha Rifles was manning the most forward post of his platoon. At0120 hours at least 200 enemy assaulted his Company position. The brunt of the attack was borne byRifleman Lachhiman Gurung's section and by his own post in particular.

This post dominated a jungle path leading up into his platoon locality. Before assaulting, the enemyhurled innumerable grenades at the position from close range. One grenade fell on the lip of RiflemanLachhiman Gurung's trench: he at once grasped it and hurled it back at the enemy. Almost immediatelyanother grenade fell directly inside the trench. Again this Rifleman snatched it up and threw it back. Athird grenade then fell just in front of the trench. He attempted to throw it back, but it exploded in hishand, blowing off his fingers, shattering his right arm and severely wounding him in the face, body andright leg. His two comrades were also badly wounded and lay helpless in the bottom of the trench.

The enemy, screaming and shouting, now formed up shoulder-to-shoulder and attempted to rush theposition by sheer weight of numbers. Rifleman Lachhiman Gurung, regardless of his wounds, fired andloaded his rifle with his left hand, maintaining a continuous and steady rate of fire. Wave after wave offanatical attacks were thrown in by the enemy and all were repulsed with heavy casualties.

For four hours after being severely wounded Rifleman Lachhiman Gurung remained alone at his post,waiting with perfect calm for each attack, which he met with fire at point-blank range from his rifle,determined not to give one inch of ground. Of the 87 enemy dead counted in the immediate vicinity ofthe Company locality, 31 lay in front of this Rifleman's section, the key to the whole position. Had theenemy succeeded in over-running and occupying Rifleman Lachhiman Gurung's trench, the whole of thereverse slope position would have been completely dominated and turned.

This Rifleman, by his magnificent example, so inspired his comrades to resist the enemy to the last, that,although surrounded and cut off for three days and two nights, they held and smashed every attack. Hisoutstanding gallantry and extreme devotion to duty, in the face of almost overwhelming odds, were themain factors in the defeat of the enemy.

Lachhiman Gurung was invested with his Victoria Cross by Lord Louis Mountbatten at a parade at theRed Fort, New Delhi, on the 19th December 1945. After the action which won him the Victoria Cross,Gurung was evacuated to hospital, but lost his right hand and the use of his right eye. He continued toserve with the 8th Gurkha Rifles but transferred to the Indian Army after Independence in 1947.

He retired with the rank of havildar ( the equivalent of sergeant ) in the same regiment.

This article is an extract from the “The Telegraph” British newspaper’s website at - www.telegraph.co.uk

15

The Battle of the Coral Sea

The Battle of the Coral Sea was a series of naval engagements off the north-east coast of Australiabetween 4th and 8th May 1942. It was fought by Australian, U.S. and Japanese aircraft against fourdifferent major groups of warships and took place in the Coral Sea, in an area separating the SolomonIslands, the eastern tip of New Guinea, and the N.E. coast of Australia from Townsville to Horn Island.

Some of the aircraft involved were land-based, but most were from the opposing aircraft carriers. It wasthe first aircraft carrier battle ever fought and the first naval battle in which the opposing forces of surfaceships at no stage sighted or fired at each other. All attacks were carried out by aeroplanes. The battle wassignificant for two main reasons:

1. It was the first time in World War 2 that the Japanese experienced failure in a major operation;2. The battle stopped the Japanese sea-borne invasion of Port Moresby.

For many people this was the “Battle that saved Australia”. This may be an exaggerated claim, but thebattle certainly seemed more significant at the time than modern history books have rated it.

Victory in Europe Day – VE Day – 8th May

The final document of unconditional surrender by Germany was signed at General Dwight Eisenhower'sheadquarters in Rheims on 7th May, 1945. Germany’s Admiral Karl Doenitz, sent General Alfred Jodl tothe Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Forces detachment in Rheims to seek terms for an end tothe war. At 2:41a.m. on May 7th, General Jodl signed for the unconditional surrender of German forceson all fronts, which was to take effect on May 8th at 11:01p.m. The 8th May was declared VE Day.

In England, the Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, officially announced the end of the war withGermany. In a message broadcast to the nation, he said the ceasefire had been signed at 0241.

Huge crowds gathered outside Buckingham Palace in London. Earlier tens of thousands of people hadlistened intently as the King's speech was relayed by loudspeaker to those who had gathered in TrafalgarSquare and Parliament Square. In it he paid tribute to the men and women who had laid down their livesfor victory as well as to all those who had "fought valiantly" on land, sea and in the air.

In Australia, celebrations were tempered with the knowledge that the war in the Pacific was still to bewon and this was done 3 months later on the 15th August, 1945.

Yellow 24 Virus

A man goes to the doctors feeling a little ill. The doctor checks him over and says, “Sorry, I have somebad news, you have Yellow 24, a really nasty virus. It's called Yellow 24 because you’ll soon end upwith a yellow complexion and you usually only have 24 hours to live after that. There's no known cure soyou may as well just go home and enjoy your final precious moments on earth.”

So he trudges home to his wife and breaks the news. Distraught, she asks him to go to the bingo with herthat evening as he's never been there with her before.

They arrive at the bingo and with his first card he gets four corners and wins $35. Then, with the samecard, he gets a line and wins $320. Then he gets the full house and wins $1000. Then the National Gamecomes up and he wins that too, getting $380,000.

The bingo caller gets him up on stage and says, “Sir, I've been here 20 years and I've never seen anyonewin four corners, a line, the full house and the national game on the same card. You must be the luckiestman on Earth!” “Lucky?” The man screamed. “Lucky? I'll have you know I've got Yellow 24.”

“Well, I’ll be blowed,” says the bingo caller. “You've won the raffle as well !!”

16

Australian GovernmentDepartment of Veterans’ Affairs

Veteran Imposter Rex Crane Pleads Guilty

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, welcomed the outcome of the case against veteranimposter Arthur Rex Crane, handed down in the Brisbane District Court on 21st December, 2010. “MrCrane pleaded guilty to defrauding the Commonwealth and ordered to pay back more than $413,000 forfalsely claiming he was a prisoner of the Japanese during the Second World War,” Mr Snowdon said.

Mr Crane has been sentenced to four years jail and can be released after serving six months upon enteringa good behaviour bond for four years. He was also ordered to pay the Commonwealth more than$413,000 in falsely claimed pension. “The Australian Government takes very seriously the recognitionand respect of those who have served our country and has no tolerance for those who fraudulently claimthat recognition,” Mr Snowdon said. “The Department of Veterans’ Affairs works hard to ensure thatveterans receive their lawful entitlements. All allegations of fraud are investigated thoroughly.”

The Department has a dedicated compliance section that investigates all suspected cases of fraudulentactivity. Other ongoing measures that act as a deterrent are proof of identity checks, and departmentallyinitiated reviews. “Incidences of fraud are very isolated and today’s sentence should be a warning aboutthe serious penalties involved in defrauding the Commonwealth,” Mr Snowdon said.

Grant to Commemorate Second World War Hero

A memorial in Malaysia marking the site of an Australian serviceman’s act of heroism during the SecondWorld War will be refurbished with the help of an Australian Government grant, Minister for Veterans’Affairs, Warren Snowdon announced on 21st January. “The Beaufort Memorial, Malaysia, marks thearea where Private Tom Starcevich of the 2/43rd Battalion single-handedly took on a series of Japanesedefensive positions in June 1945 and was later awarded a Victoria Cross for his bravery,” he said.

On 27 June, the 2/32nd and 2/43rd Battalions of the 9th Australian Division had fought their way intoBeaufort, Sabah, while Australian companies positioned outside the town engaged the Japanese trying toescape. The following morning, as Australian troops patrolled the surrounding jungle, Private Starcevichdestroyed four machine gun posts which were holding up his platoon’s advance. Private Starcevichoriginally from Subiaco, Western Australia, survived the War and the Beaufort Memorial was later builtby locals in the area who had been liberated by the Australians. “To ensure the actions of PrivateStarcevich and the other Australians who fought and liberated the area are always remembered, theAustralian Government has provided a $15,000 grant under the Overseas Privately–ConstructedMemorial Restoration Program to refurbish the Beaufort Memorial,” Mr Snowdon said.

Mr Snowdon said the funding would help to clean and refurbish the memorial, landscape the surroundinggardens, improve access to the memorial for visitors and build sheltered seating. “This grant will help toensure more people can enjoy the Beaufort Memorial and learn about the important wartime history ofthis region and the heroic efforts of Private Starcevich,” he said. “I encourage Australians travellingoverseas to visit the Overseas Memorials Database to find out more about memorials located in the areathey are travelling to.” Images of Private Starcevich and the Memorial are available atwww.dva.gov.au/media.

The Australian Government’s Overseas Privately-Constructed Memorial Restoration Program providesfunding to restore existing memorials outside Australian territory which directly commemorateAustralia’s military involvement in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations and recognise thecontribution of Australian servicemen and women. For more information on the Overseas Privately-Constructed Memorial Restoration Program visit the DVA website.

Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Continued on page 17

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Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Continued from page 16

Remains of RAAF Spitfire Pilot Located and Identified

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon, announced on17th December that the remains of a pilot that went down 66 years ago off Normandy in France have beenofficially identified as Flight Lieutenant Henry “Lacy” Smith, of Number 453 Squadron, RoyalAustralian Air Force. The RAAF began the identification process after 6th November 2010, when thewreckage of a Spitfire aircraft, and human remains were recovered in the Orne Estuary, near Ouistrehamin Normandy by local museum curators, Mr. and Mrs. Cobin.

“With the help of the local museum curators, there was sufficient evidence provided to the RAAF topositively identify the remains are those of Flight Lieutenant Smith. Evidence included the aircraftwreckage engine serial number, eyewitness reports of the other two pilots flying in the formation at thetime of the downing of the aircraft, the physical location of the recovered wreckage, a wartime casualtyreport linking the aircraft tail number, engine serial number and pilot details, and the engine serial numberrecovered with the aircraft wreckage. I am very pleased to know that the remains of this brave pilot havenow been accounted for and can now finally be laid to rest. Finding Flight Lieutenant Smith after over 66years is an outstanding result for all concerned particularly the family,” Mr Snowdon said.

The RAAF has contacted surviving relatives living in Australia, and arrangements are underway for thereinterment of Flight Lieutenant Smith’s remains, with full military honours. This ceremony will occur in2011, at a date yet to be set, in a Commonwealth War Graves cemetery in France, in accordance withnormal practice for recovered remains.

Further Historical Background:- Flight Lieutenant Smith was shot down by enemy anti-aircraftfire on 11th June 1944, five days after D-Day whilst on a mission supporting the Allied invasion atNormandy, in France. His last radio message to his comrades was: "I'm going to put this thing down in afield." But the Australian's plane nose-dived into the sea and he was listed as missing believed killed.

The recovery team was astonished at how well preserved the fighter's fuselage and wooden propellerwere. The dials on the instrument panel were still recognisable. After the wreckage was towed ashore,the remains of Flight Lieutenant Smith were found in the cockpit. They were placed in a coffin and werehanded to the Australian Embassy in France.

Flight Lieutenant Smith’s unit, Number 453Squadron, was one of 17 RAAF squadrons formedunder the Empire Air Training Scheme to bolsterthe Royal Air Force during World War II. It servedat Singapore from August 1941 until Japan’sinvasion of Malaya forced its withdrawal anddisbandment in March 1942. The unit wasreformed in Scotland three months later and foughtover Britain and occupied Europe until the end ofthe war. The unit disbanded in January 1946, butwas reformed on 1st December 2010 when a newNumber 453 Squadron took charge of RAAF AirTraffic Control in WA, SA, Vic and NSW. Lifting the upside down wreckage of the SpitfireThe squadron’s motto is “Ready to Strike.”

Over the six years of the Second World War, from September 1939 until August 1945, 39,366 membersof the Australian armed services were killed or died of wounds or sickness. Just over 10,750 weremembers of the RAAF, including 884 who were recorded as “missing” rather than “presumed dead” atthe end of the conflict. Many of those fliers have still not been accounted for in the decades since WorldWar II ended. Worldwide, about 1100 aircraft are on the RAAF’s missing aircraft register, almost all ofthem from World War II.

Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Continued on page 18

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Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Continued from page 17

Commemorating the Bombing of Darwin

On the 69th anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, andSenator for the Northern Territory, Trish Crossin encouraged Australians to take time to reflect on themoment in history when war came to Australian soil.

Mr Snowdon said the events of 19th February 1942 and the months that followed are an important part ofAustralia’s history which should not be forgotten. “The morning attacks by 242 Japanese aircraft causeddeath and destruction across Darwin. Many sites including the harbour, RAAF base, aerodromes, aircraft,post office, administration building and the Army hospital were destroyed. Eight ships were sunk inDarwin harbour and another two near Bathurst Island and a number of military aircraft were destroyed.“The loss of life was significant, with some 250 people killed and hundreds injured, including servicepersonnel and civilians. Australians should pay tribute to those who died in the Bombing of Darwin andin the defence of Australia,” Mr Snowdon said.

From the time of this first raid until the last on 12th November 1943, Darwin and other northernAustralian sites endured more than 90 air raids carried out by the Japanese.

Attending a commemorative service at the Cenotaph in Darwin on behalf of the Prime Minister and theMinister for Veterans Affairs’, Ms Crossin said the attacks confirmed for many Australians that they werenow fighting a war in direct defence of their own country. “While Australians began the war fighting theItalians and Germans in North Africa, the Middle East and the Mediterranean, Japan’s entry into the warin December 1941 brought the conflict into our own region. “Japan’s rapid advance through SoutheastAsia made the threat of war reaching Australia a reality for many. On 19th February 1942, only four daysafter the Fall of Singapore, Darwin came under attack twice in one day,” Ms Crossin said.

Services are held across the country to mark the anniversary of the bombing. The anniversary is alsocommemorated on the Battle for Australia Day on the first Wednesday of September each year.

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

If you would like additional information regarding these or any other topics that DVA are responsible forplease 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._________________________________________________________________________________

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

1st Wednesday - All-You-Can-Eat SEAFOOD Smorgasbord - $15.00

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.

19

Women’s Auxiliary Donations

The Morwell RSL Women’s Auxiliary made two significant donations to Latrobe Regional Hospitalduring the last six months. One donation was for two chairs presented to the Occupational TherapyManager, Nicole Tierney by Women’s Auxiliary President, Adrienne Mitrevics and Secretary, Ann-Maree Blackford, for Children’s occupational and physiotherapy sessions.The chairs were valued at $3449. One of the chairs was a “Jenz Giraffe”chair and as the name suggests is a chair whose frame is in the shape of agiraffe. This chair is visually pleasing and attractive to the children whilstit allows the child to sit independently and maintain good posture duringtreatment sessions. The second item was a “corner seat” and its function issimilar to the “giraffe chair” but more suited to older children.

The Women’s Auxiliary also donated 5 alarm activated bed pads valued at$11790. These pads are used to assist with the treatment of elderly andinfirmed patients. The alarm pads are activated when a patient falls out of,or attempts to get out of bed when they should not do so. Quite a few ofour own veterans could have benefited from this equipment in the past andtheir will no doubt be many in the future who will also benefit.

These donations and many others are made possible because the Women’s Auxiliary works hard raisingmoney from Raffles, bingo and the sale of items of memorabilia.

Poor Rabbit

A rabbit hops into a pub and says to the barman, ”Can I have a schooner of beer, and a Ham and CheeseToastie?” The barman is amazed, but gives the rabbit a schooner of beer and a Ham and Cheese Toastie.The rabbit drinks the beer and eats the toastie. He then leaves. The following night the rabbit returns andagain asks for a schooner of beer, and a Ham and Cheese Toastie. The barman, now intrigued by therabbit and the extra drinkers in the pub, (because word gets round), gives the rabbit the beer and theToastie. The rabbit consumes them and leaves. The next night, the pub is packed. In walks the rabbitand says, “A schooner of beer and a Ham and Cheese Toastie, please barman.”

The crowd is hushed as the barman gives the rabbit his beer and toastie, and then burst into applause asthe rabbit wolfs them down. The next night there is standing room only in the pub. The barman ismaking more money in one week than he did all last year. In walks the rabbit and says, “A schooner ofbeer and a Ham and Cheese Toastie, please barman,” The barman says, “I'm sorry rabbit, old mate, butwe are right out of them Ham and Cheese Toasties” The rabbit looks aghast. The crowd was quietenedto almost a whisper, when the barman clears his throat nervously and says, “We do have a very niceCheese and Onion Toastie.” The rabbit looks him in the eye and says, “Are you sure I will like it.” Themasses' bated breath is ear shatteringly silent. The barman, with a roguish smile says, “Do you think thatI would let down one of my best friends. I know you'll love it.” “Ok,” says the rabbit, “I'll have aschooner of beer and a Cheese and Onion Toastie.” The pub erupts with glee as the rabbit downs the beerand swallows the toastie. He then waves to the crowd and leaves.... NEVER TO RETURN!!!!!!

One year later, in the now impoverished pub, the barman, (who has only served 4 drinks this day, 3 ofwhich were his), calls time. When he is cleaning down the now empty bar, he sees a small white form,floating above the bar. The barman says, “Who are you?”, To which he is answered, “I am the ghost ofthe rabbit that used to frequent this pub.” The barman says, “I remember you. You made me famous.You would come in every night and have a schooner of beer and a Ham and Cheese Toastie. Massescame to see you and this place was famous.” The rabbit says, “Yes I know.” The barman replies, “Iremember, on your last night we didn't have any Ham and Cheese Toasties.. You had a Cheese and Onionone instead.” The rabbit said, “Yes, you promised me that I would love it.” The barman said, “You nevercame back, what happened?” “I DIED”, said the rabbit. ”NO!” said the barman. “What from?”

After a short pause, the rabbit said ………... “Mixin-me-Toasties.”

20

No Entertainment on Friday Nights

As of the 1st April and throughout the winter period, there will not be any entertainmentin the Morwell RSL on Friday nights. However entertainment will continue to beconducted on Saturday nights between 8.00pm and 12.30am. On Saturday nights, therewill also be some new bands as well as some of your favourite ones to entertain you.

Entertainment Calendar – (Shez’s GIG Guide) - Our Supervisor Sheryl hasorganised the following entertainment for you all. Please support these evenings and have a great time.

MARCH

Wednesday 2nd - “Under the Spotlight”( Featuring SNAKE )

Friday 4th - RECKLESS

Saturday 5th - COOLCHANGE

Friday 11th - Karaoke with D.J. GLENNO

Saturday 12th - I.C. ROCK

Wednesday 16th - “Under the Spotlight”( Featuring SOLO )

Friday 18th - MICK LODGE

Saturday 19th - MISTY

* Sunday 20th - OLD TIME DANCE *( Ken & Alice Rae - 2pm until 4pm. – Free )

Friday 25th - SHINDIG

Saturday 26th - BLACKHILL RAMBLERS

APRIL

Saturday 2nd - YESTERYEAR( This is a new band to the Morwell RSL )

Saturday 9th - IMPACT( This is a new band to the Morwell RSL )

Saturday 16th - Not Yet Finalised( Check Gig Guide at the Morwell RSL )

* Sunday 17th - OLD TIME DANCE *( Ken & Alice Rae - 2pm until 4pm. – Free )

Saturday 23rd - MUSIC FESTIVAL( See details on page 19 )

Saturday 30th - JIVE BAND( Back by popular demand )

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. Startingtimes for these functions is around 8-00pm.

Please check the latest “Gig Guide” at the Sub-Branch reception desk or contact the club by telephone on5134 2455 in case there are any late changes to the entertainment calendar. The “GIG” guide is alsoshown on the Morwell RSL Website at www.morwell.rslvic.com.au

The OLD TIME DANCE with Ken and Alice Rae is a great afternoon’sentertainment. There is always plenty of space for people to come along andenjoy the Music, Games and Friendship, not forgetting the Dancing, ofcourse. The OLD TIME DANCE is held on the Third Sunday of each month.There is no charge for this entertainment. IT’S FREE.

Table Bookings:- Table bookings in advance will NOT be accepted forfunctions in the Members Lounge. However you may arrange a table for youand your guests on arrival if one is available.

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

21

Easter Saturday - 23rd April

In the Morwell RSL’s ANZAC Function Room

Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal / MUSIC FESTIVAL

will be held in the Morwell RSL on EASTER SATURDAY, 23rd April.

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The MUSIC FESTIVAL will entertain you between 6-00pm and 1-00am

All the Bands have kindly donated their time and proceeds from Door Sales, Raffles andAuctions will be donated to the

Royal Children's Hospital, Good Friday Appeal.

Entry Cost to the Music Festival is - $12.00 per person

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EASTER SATURDAY’s Function will feature the following bands:-

RECKLESS, COOLCHANGE & I.C. ROCK.

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This is the fourth year the event has been held and it has so far raiseda grand total of $22,030. It is hoped this year’s event will considerably boost that total.

Please support this function.---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Easter Hamper Raffles and Auctions will also be organised. If individuals or localbusinesses would like to donate gifts or gift vouchers, they would be greatly appreciated.

They will be auctioned during the festival.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal

As you all would know, each year on Good Friday an appeal is held in Victoria toraise funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. If any of you wouldlike to donate to this appeal, you may do so by forwarding a cheque to theMorwell RSL, written out to the Royal Children’s Hospital or give adonation directly to Shez at the Members Bar or to our receptionist.Your donation will be added to the Monies collected during the EasterSaturday Music Festival and passed on to the Appeal organizers.A receipt for your contribution will be forwarded to you.

22

Lunch & Dinner SmorgasbordsSunday 8th May

Don’t forget Mother’s Day on Sunday 8th May. Bring mother to theMorwell RSL Sub-Branch’s “Victoria Cross” Bistro for theMother’s Day Smorgasbord Lunch ( 12-30pm ) or Dinner ( 6-00pm ).

Cost of either Lunch or Dinner for all people over 10 years oldis $20-00 per head. Children 5 years and under are free, andall other children aged 6 to 10 years pay $10.00 per head.

Everyone who attends goes into a draw for a Hamperand all Mothers will receive a free Rose.

Please make a reservation for the Smorgasbord Lunchor Dinner in the Bistro on Mother’s Day.

See Mary in person or phone her on (03) 5135 3689 and book your seats.

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Morwell Art& Framing

Lea & Rod Jones

49 Chickerell Street, Morwell 3840

Telephone - 5134 5515

Email - morwell.art@bigpond.com

Custom & Conservation Framing

Large Variety of Art Supplies

Art & Fine Antique Restoration

Portrait & Wildlife Artist

Gallery

We are experts in custom framingof service memorabilia, and allother general and custom framing.

We can create stunning framedmemories from your servicememorabilia such as photos,medals, badges, certificates, rankpatches, berets and hats etc.

Presentation of this advertisementwill entitle you to a discount fromyour purchase.

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23

ANZAC Day Timetable - MONDAY 25th APRIL 2011

Morwell - Dawn Service - The ANZAC Day Dawn Service organised by Morwell RSL willcommence at 5-45am at the Cenotaph on the corner of Tarwin and Elgin Streets. RSL Members and theGeneral Public are invited to both the Service and a “Gunfire” breakfast in the RSL’s ANZAC FunctionRoom after the Service. Entry is a gold coin donation. Please enter through the Tarwin Street entrance.

Morwell - March & Service - Marchers should assemble near the Morwell Town Commonin Elgin Street ( opposite the Commercial Road Primary School ) at 11-30am. The march will “Step-Off” at 11-50am sharp. They will march along Elgin Street to the Cenotaph, where the official servicewill commence at 12.00noon. An ANZAC Day Luncheon ( see details printed below ) will follow theservice in the Sub-Branch’s ANZAC Function Room. Please enter through the Elgin Street entrance.

Morwell RSL Sub-Branch - ANZAC Day Luncheon - Our ANZAC Day Luncheonwill follow the ANZAC Day Service and take the form of a 3 course sit down meal subsidised by theSub-Branch. The Luncheon is FREE to all Service Members of the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch only andwhere appropriate, their registered Carers. Affiliate and Women's Auxiliary Members will be charged$5.00 per head. A list will be kept of visiting Sub-Branch Members from other RSL's who wish to attend,and if sufficient room is available for them, they will pay $10.00 per head.

Everyone who wishes to attend the Luncheon ( including Service Members ) requires aticket. Tickets are now available from the reception desk and to ensure you have a seatyou are requested to book now. If there are still tickets available, they will be sold at thedoor but do not rely on this. Please Book Now!

IMPORTANT NOTE:- This Luncheon is strictly limited to Special Guests, RSL Service, Affiliateand Women’s Auxiliary members and their Registered Carers. If you wish to book a table for agroup of members please tell the Receptionist or our Manager Dennis Cleary when you pick up orpay for your tickets. We will try to cater for visiting Service Members if the numbers allow but nochildren, Social or Community Members are able to attend.

Yinnar - ANZAC Day Timetable - The Yinnar Township March will assemble at 9-00amnear the general store in the Main Street and march-off at 9-20am to the Cenotaph, also in the MainStreet. A Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Cenotaph will commence at 9-30am, followed by a Service inthe nearby Memorial Hall at 9-45am.

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LATROBE VALLEY TRAVEL

Latrobe Valley Travel is Located at4 Tarwin Street Morwell.

The Proprietor, May Sennett, is a Member of theMorwell R.S.L. Sub-Branch and together with herexperienced staff is able to assist you with your entiretravel requirements, from booking a hotel in Melbourneto your dream holiday overseas.

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

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

Email:- enquiries@latrobetravel.com.au

Licencee:- E.M. Sennett t/a Latrobe Valley TravelLicence No.:- 31427

24

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

Diggers Café

Mondayto

Saturday

11-00am to 2-00pmand

5-00pm to 8.30pm

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______________________________________________________________________________________________________

ANZAC Day

Every year in the early hours of 25th April, at various Shrines of Remembrance, Cenotaphs and WarMemorials throughout Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Gallipoli there will be a gathering of the menand women who have gone to war and returned. Together with their families and friends they gather for adawn service that heralds the start of another ANZAC Day.

This is a day of remembrance, of the deaths and sufferings in war, the valor of fighting men and women,and the ever-present hope for the peoples of the world to live together in harmony and everlasting peace.And, as every ANZAC Day service recalls,

They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old.Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn.At the going down of the sun and in the morning,

we will remember them.

ANZAC Day is a National Day of Remembrance and commemorated in Australia and New Zealand. Itcommemorates the landing at Gallipoli during World War I, on the 25th April, 1915 of the two countries’fighting men, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC).

DISCLAIMER

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

DON’T FORGET - Mark Your Calendar

Monday 25th April – ANZAC Day Services at Morwell CenotaphDawn Service at 5-45am, followed by the March and Service at 11-30am.

Please book a seat for the Luncheon by collecting your tickets at our reception desk.( See ANZAC Day Program and Luncheon details on page 23 )

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Sunday 8th May – Mother’s Day Luncheon and Dinner in the Bistro._______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Friday 13th May is the closing date for articles to be included in the next newsletter, June Edition