noteworthy news -...
TRANSCRIPT
Formed 10th June 1989
PATRON: BRIGADIER J.J. SHELTON DSO MC
NOTEWORTHY NEWS
NEWSLETTER OF THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS ASSOCIATION INC.Website: www.aabcassociation.com.au
Christmas 2016 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: President – John Franklin Ph: 0407 312 035 Email: [email protected]
Vice President – Stephen Mee Ph: 0410 568 032 Email: [email protected]
Secretary – Kevin Noon CSM Ph: (02) 6299 9954 (H) 0414 313 566 (M) Email: [email protected] Assistant Secretary – Dave Oakley Ph: 0438 951 738 Email: [email protected]
Treasurer – Trevor Beswick Ph: 0432 273 701 Email: [email protected]
Assistant Treasurer – Jim Harper BEM Ph: 03 9776 9172 Email: [email protected]
COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Ivan Cocking – 0416 207 940 Sue Baxter – 0412 742 564 Bill Honter BEM - 08 9593 2868 Chris Stock - 0419 897 179 Grahame Johnson - 08 8364 7232 Pat Steer – 0418 717 174 CHAPLAIN: LTCOL Dennis J Hills, Retd Ph: 0417423363 Email: [email protected]
CO-CHAPLAIN: Matthew James Ph: 0409 725 313 Email: [email protected] STATE REPRESENTATIVES:
Victoria: Neville Lloyd Ph: 03 9789 2979
New South Wales: Kevin Noon Ph: 02 6299 9954
South Queensland: John Franklin Ph: 0407 312 035
North Queensland: Scotty Laycock Ph: 07 7757 7550
Tasmania: Colleen Harbod Ph: 03 6224 0256 South Australia: Dave Oakley Ph: 0438 951 738
Northern Territory: Ron Roberts Ph: 0418 857 744
Western Australia: Bill Honter BEM Ph: 08 9593 2868
Australian Capital Territory: Ron Bennett Ph: 0419 885 359
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Schedule of Membership Fees
The Schedule of Fees for Full Members and Associate Members as at December 2012 is shown in the following table:
Fee Amount Entrance fee (non serving) $15 Entrance fee (current serving) No fee Annual subscription (members) $35 Annual subscription (widows) $20
Fees and subscriptions can be payed by cheque or electronic transfer. For details see Treasurer’s report. Note: Members joining on or after 1 January pay the entrance fee and 50% of the annual subscription fee for that year. The membership year is 1 July to 30 June.
LAST POST
We pause a moment to remember those friends and former associates who have passed away and to appreciate their
service and contribution to military music
Maxwell Jones Phil Harrison Ena Harper Allan Batchelor
“OLD SOLDIERS NEVER DIE - THEY SIMPLY FADE AWAY!”
NOTEWORTHY 2017 DEADLINES
ANZAC EDITION 19th March
AABC BIRTHDAY EDITION 26th June
CHRISTMAS EDITION 1st November
All NOTEWORTHY NEWS contributions to
Stuart Colhoun via email:
Or mail to:
Stuart Colhoun 5 Hammond Circuit
HOPETOUN PARK
VIC 3340
The editor reserves the right to accept or reject any article submitted. Items published may be altered for economy of space and other reasons.
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A short Note………. Welcome to the Christmas 2016 edition of Noteworthy News. As decided upon at the AGM / reunion, all future editions of Noteworthy News will be produced in electronic format. Looking forward this is a better option for the Association. The cost of printing the newsletter coupled with the cost of mailing has risen to a level no longer sustainable. A couple of options being investigated include allowing the newsletter to be accessible from the Association website or emailing the newsletter to our members. For the small number of members who cannot receive it electronically a limited amount of hard copies will be printed for them. A special feature in this edition are some images from the official opening of the Soldier Musician Memorial Room at the Defence Force School of Music. This was attended by family members of Peter Fraser and Michael Pool, as well as former members of 5RAR Band. I still look forward to receiving submissions from our members for publishing in the newsletter and these can be anecdotes, reports or images. My contact details are on the website and also included in this newsletter. Have a happy and safe Christmas and best wishes for the New Year.
Stuart Colhoun
From the President
Greetings one and all. 2016 has been another good year for the AABC Association with a number of regional activities being held around the country from small gatherings to Corps birthday celebrations. The Association’s Facebook page has again proven to be very popular and well utilised by many of our members. The advantage of being able to post photos and report on current events in real time is very appealing to our members. Thank you to those who have provided input. The 2016 Reunion and AGM held in October was a huge success and I publicly acknowledge Chris ‘Yogi’ Mullin and his vibrant team for the great work they all did in pulling it together. The entire weekend was well organised, the venues were well selected and all who attended had a great time. Even the broken down boat issue was resolved quickly and everyone had a great day on the water. To all in the West…thank you. November saw the sun finally set on the long and distinguished career of WO1 John ‘Snara’ Hadlow, a career that spanned six decades. Snara enlisted into the Australian Army in July 1965 and he took discharge last month. It was fitting that on his final performance he was thanked for his service by, and photographed with, the Governor-General. The Commanding Officer of the 1st Regiment RAA, was on hand to farewell Snara at the
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Regiment’s end of year dinner, recognising his 51 years of service and presenting him with a certificate of appreciation on behalf of all members of the AABC Association. Thank you for your service Snara. On 7 December 2016, a room was dedicated at the Defence Force School of Music in memory of soldier/ musicians who either paid the supreme sacrifice or were recognised for their bravery in action. The dedication of the Peter Fraser MM and Michael Poole Memorial Room took place in front of family members and serving personnel from around the AABC. John Seagg raised the issue with LTCOL Craig Johnson some time ago and after a great deal of consideration as to the best way to approach the project, decisions were made that resulted in the dedication. The AABC Association extends its congratulations to all those who contributed to making this project become a reality. In particular, we recognise SGT Mark Jones for the extensive work he did in the overall planning of this project. It was decided at the AGM this year that the Association would produce Noteworthy News in electronic format and email copies to members. A hard copy of the newsletter would still be sent to those who do not have the facility to receive it electronically. More to follow on this change in the new year. I take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and all the best for the new year. Drive safely and enjoy time with family and friends. Cheers JF President Australian Army Band Corps Association
Index Last Post Page 2
From the President Page 3
Treasurer’s report Page 5
Obituaries Page 6
CO AAB Report Page 8
AGM Minutes Page 10
News and Events Page 16
Soldier/Musician Memorial Page 19
Royal Guard Band 1988 Page 20
Balcombe buildings Page 21
From the past Page 22
Membership application Page 24
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Treasurer’s Report A reminder that subs can be payed online via EFT: AABC Assn Inc BSB: 704230 Acc. No. 100112721 Ref: YOUR NAME Please remember to add your name if paying via EFT or we cannot credit the payment to your membership.
If making out cheques/money orders there is no need to write the full title. Only write: AABC Assn Inc.
Cheques/money orders can be forward to the Association Treasurer: Honorary Treasurer AABC Assn Inc PO Box 171 DINGLEY VILLAGE VIC 3172
AABC Association Co-Chaplain Appointment
The President and Members of the Australian Army Band Corps Association extend a very warm welcome to the following members who have recently
joined, or returned to the Association:
Francis Piccin Eve Dani
On 26th June 2016 the AABC Association Executive Committee held an extraordinary meeting and unanimously agreed to the appointment of Mr Matthew James as a Co-Chaplain of the Association.
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Vale Maxwell Jones 4 May 1927 - 16 September 2016
Max was a member of the excellent cornet line up in the Western Command Band during the 1960’s and also combined his talents with a needle and thread repairing uniforms and sewing on promotion stripes for members of the band, having served his apprenticeship and a large part of his working life as a Tailor. In later life Max was an active advocate for young people getting involved with playing a musical instrument and worked for the Education Department School of Instrumental Music as well as having a major influence with the Mandurah District Concert Band. After moving to Perth to be closer to his children he joined the City of Perth Concert Band (french horn) and the City of Perth Brass Band (cornet). Max had been experiencing ill health with a number of ailments over the past couple of years, rallying after medical intervention each time. Recently, he was in fairly advanced stages of dementia. Bob Keatch
Vale - Allan Batchelor Allan Batchelor, ex National Serviceman 1970 – 71, and member of Southern Command Band passed away on Sunday 30 October 2016 aged 67 years. Allan played clarinet for his short stay and although a quiet person he possessed a wicked sense of humour, which endeared him to many and maintained his memory to his friends. Alan developed type 1 diabetes shortly after leaving the Army, and consequently developed kidney failure. Terry Stirzaker (ex Southern Command Band 1970 – 72) then stepped forward to offer his kidney to save Allan’s life. This was one of the first kidney organ transplants to be performed outside of a patient’s family. Allan worked as an accountant for firms in Melbourne and later in the Goulburn Valley where he settled in Arcadia, near Shepperton. A private memorial was held on Saturday 5 November 2016. Alan and I flatted together for quite a number of years after he discharged and I was lucky enough to be included in his family and friends. A good mate, you can’t say better than that. John (Snara) Hadlow
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Vale Doug Hocking
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COMMANDING OFFICER AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND REPORT From the desk of LTCOL McMahon, for the last time!! 2016 has proven to be another busy and successful year for all members of the AABC. It is with great pleasure that I reflect on our achievements throughout 2016, and am satisfied that we are truly beginning to gain momentum working in conjunction with Army's broader objectives. In addition to the regular tasks which each band complete within the year, as a broader organisation we have been providing support to Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Programme (AACAP), Chief of Army's Exercise, EX HAMEL, to the ADF Arts for Resilience, Recovery, Teamwork and Skills programme in addition to the domestic and international engagements in support of Centenary of ANZAC. The bands have continued to be involved in the Spirit of ANZAC Centenary Experience as it travels throughout Australia, and the support to Forces Entertainment by way of provision of tech teams has continued. Throughout 2016 we have continued to support Centenary of ANZAC with a trip to France for commemorative services at Pozieres and Fromelles in July and the many international bugle calls which are becoming cemented into the annual programme of the AABC. Further trips are planned for 2017, with Army taking its turn to return to Villers Bretonneux in April, and possible trips to Polygon Wood and Beersheba later in the year. Additionally, there will be a trip to the Basel International Tattoo in July, so 2017 is already shaping up to be a very busy year too. Over the course of the year as I've travelled out to the bands, I have had the great joy of hearing a number of M3 recitals from musicians around our organisation. Some of these are achieved by way of a public performance, and some are 'in-house'. I was in Wagga Wagga for one in early August, which was held at the Riverina Conservatorium. After the recital was complete, I said a few words to the audience about the significance of what had just occurred to that musician's career, and a couple who were visiting from Adelaide approached me later to say they had found out about the concert from the local Tourist Information Centre, so decided to attend. They assured me it had been the highlight of their holiday thus far, and they couldn't believe their luck stumbling on such an impressive performance; I continue to be highly impressed by the talent we possess within the organisation, and I am confident that will posture the organisation for continued success into the future. The Army and Navy instructors posted to the Defence Force School of Music (DFSM) continue to deliver music training which is relevant to the current organisational structure; this work is undertaken by a small staff who are extremely dedicated to ensuring the workforce is trained appropriately, and I thank LTCOL Craig Johnson and his staff at the DFSM for their work. Additionally, at the Defence Command Support Training Centre, CAPT Christopher Martin and CAPT Rachel Beeton (Employment Category Manager and Training Developer respectively) and their staff continue to work tirelessly on the development and modernisation of training to ensure course content is exactly relevant and appropriate. Again, my thanks to these dedicated staff. As I attended the DFSM Graduation Ceremony only two nights ago in Melbourne, it is my distinct pleasure to announce our newest officers; CAPT Doug Hall, who is to be posted as 2IC Australian Army Band Melbourne in Jan 17, CAPT Richard Mason, who is to be posted to the Band of the Royal Military College, and CAPT Cameron Earl who will be remaining in location at the DFSM as the Operations Officer; I wish them every success as they embark on their careers as officers within our organisation. I also wish to acknowledge a number of long-serving people who are leaving the full-time Army following a number of years of service; WO1 Simon Renfrey, who will be undertaking his own business venture in the Queensland area, WO1 Bland Holt, who is retiring up to Qld in early 2017 following a 40 year career, MAJ Dave Thompson, who, on transition to the Army Reserve in August
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this year has taken up the role of Officer Commanding the Australian Army Band Newcastle, and MAJ Steve Cottier, who was promoted on 7 Dec 16 and who will be transitioning to the Army Reserve in Jan 17 to undertake the role of Officer Commanding of the Australian Army Band Melbourne. Additionally, WO1 Vaughan Grant will be going on long-term schooling in 2017 with view to corps reallocation to RASIGs Corps at some future time, and I wish him well in that endeavour. CPLs Craig Torrance and Simone Dew will be leaving full time service in the New Year following 36 and 27 years of service respectively, and there are a number of other musicians who are leaving within the first few months of 2017, but I’ll allow the next CO AAB to mention those people in his newsletter updates. I thank all the aforementioned musicians for their service in the Australian Army Band Corps, and wish them every success in their future endeavours. Also, I wish to congratulate LTCOL Dan Hiscock on his recent promotion and forthcoming appointment as CO DFSM, and I wish LTCOL Craig Johnson every success as the incoming CO AAB in 2017. Finally, as I will imminently be leaving the Army myself, I convey my warmest regards; having held the role of CO AAB for the past two years has been a distinct honour and privilege for me and I look forward to catching up with you at future AABC Association functions. I trust you will all have a very happy Festive Season. Kindest regards to all, Andrea McMahon Lieutenant Colonel Commanding Officer Australian Army Band Head of Corps Australian Army Band Corps
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AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS ASSOCIATION MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
THE TRADEWINDS HOTEL, FREMANTLE, WA SATURDAY 22 OCTOBER 2016
Item 1 – Meeting Opened / Welcome – The President, John Franklin opened the Meeting at 9.30am and welcomed all members who were present (total 43). He asked that a vote of thanks be recorded in the minutes for this year’s reunion organizing committee led by Chris Mullen, Ian Milne and David Baker. He also requested Chris Mullen pass on our thanks to the OC/Music Director AAB-P MAJ Peter O’Conner and the band for their support. He also passed on the thanks of the association to the Manager of the Tradewinds Hotel for the use of the hotel and its facilities during the reunion. This was carried by acclamation. Item 2 – In Memoriam – The President asked all members present to stand and requested the Treasurer Trevor Beswick to say a prayer. Following the prayer the President read out the names of those Association members, ex Army Musicians and family members who passed away during the year (2015/2016). They included: Max Jones, Doug Hocking, Roy Simpson, LTCOL Bob Taylor (Retd), Ern Trotter, Garnet Rogers and Col Webb. The President asked all present to remain standing for a minutes silence honouring the memory of seven Army Bandsmen who were killed in action or died on active service since the Second World War. Those acknowledged were: Harold Clark, Jock Tannock, Chris Clark, Merv Wilson, Alf McCormack, Liam O’Carrol and Mick Poole. ‘The Ode’ spoken by the President ‘Lest We Forget’ Item 3 - Apologies – The Secretary advised the meeting of the following apologies: BRIG Jim Shelton, BRIG Ian Hearn, Neville Lloyd, Stephen Hladio, Stephen Button, Rod Hingston, Sterle Buchanan, Craig Johnson, Brian Evans, John Hughes, Peter Guest, Mario Vidal, Steve Knagge, Kevin Furness, Bruce Munchenberg, LTCOL Ian McLean, Howard Ward, MAJ Dan Hiscock, Ian Grant, Danny Buckley, Dave Farrell, Geoff Grey, Graham Curran, Graham Lloyd, Gregg Amies, Eric Anderson, John Seagg, John Parsons, Keith Walker, Lindsay Hobden, Michael Gojan, Michael Smith, Noel Cornwill, Peter Hill, Ron Bennett, Sean O’Boyle, Ian Cocking, Deb & Stephen Deakes, Dirk Duyzer, Shirley Turner, Stan Holland, John McGregor, Stewart Clark, Scott Goulay, Doug Thorenson, Len Dodds, Chris Jurres, Paul Peloe, John Faul, (Total 50). Item 4 - Minutes from the Previous Meeting - The minutes from the previous meeting held at the Warradale Barracks Sergeants’ Mess, Adelaide in 2015 was posted on the website and placed on chairs for members to read at the AGM. Moved: Bob Keatch Seconded: Fred Gfeller Carried Item 5 - Business Arising – There was no business arising. Item 6 - Presidents Report – The Presidents Report was provided (see attached) Moved: Ivan Cocking Seconded: Bob Keatch Carried.
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Item 7 - Treasurers Report – The Treasurers Report, which did not include the Auditor’s Report was read and tabled. Moved: Graeme Johnson Seconded: Pat Steer Carried. The Treasurer advised the meeting that he would propose two motions later in the meeting asking for changes to the financial running of the Association. Item 8 - Election of Office Bearers – The President advised the meeting that all members of the Executive Committee were willing to stand again for 2016/2017. He advised the meeting that Neville Lloyd was not standing for the Committee in the coming year. He thanked Neville for his continued support for his past years of service. Moved: Chris Stock moved that all members of both the Executive and the Committee, accept Neville Lloyd be re-elected. Seconded: Ian Milne Carried The Association Executive Office Bearers are: President – John Franklin Vice President – Stephen Mee Secretary - Kevin Noon Assistant Secretary – Dave Oakley Treasurer – Trevor Beswick Assistant Treasurer – Jim ‘Shad’ Harper Nomination for the vacant committee position left by Neville Lloyd: Moved: Ivan Cocking that Chris Stock be elected to the Committee Seconded: Ian Milne Carried Committee Members are: Ivan Cocking Sue Baxter Chris Stock Bill Honter Graeme Johnson Pat Steer (Immediate Past President) Item 9 – State and Regional Representatives Reports The following State Representative reports were delivered: Perth, NSW/Canberra and Brisbane.
Perth representative, Bill Honter advised the meeting that the Perth Chapter continued to conduct their annual three major events during the past twelve months, which included Corps Birthday celebrations, the annual ‘Old Contemptibles Dinner’ and their Christmas function. He thanked David Baker for organizing the AABC Birthday celebrations this year where a large gathering attended.
NSW representative, Kevin Noon standing in for the ACT representative, Ron Bennett advised the meeting that in the past year there have been just one event where both the RMC Band and the AABC Association members attended, namely the AABC Birthday celebrations. With an inclement day the Bowls competition at a local Bowling Club was cancelled. A good attendance from both the Association and the band members made it an enjoyable day at the Band Room. Its planned to conduct more activities involving both the Association and the band.
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Brisbane Representative, John Franklin advised the meeting that this year’s Corps Birthday celebrations which was held in Brisbane was an outstanding success with both the AAB-B and the RA Artillery Band-Brisbane combining together for the celebrations at the Gaythorne RSL.
Item 10 - Commanding Officer Australian Army Band Report Significant news within the AAB for the end of 2016 is the opportunity to see promotion, which has been very stagnant following the restructure over 3 years ago. For the first time since then, we will be promoting 2 WO2 to WO1, 4 SGT to WO2, 5 CPL to SGT, which is a significant amount of movement all at once. This is very good news, and will give some personnel the long-awaited recognition for their continued high performance. With further retirements anticipated in the senior WO space over the next few years, I expect that this trend will continue into the future, particularly once we reach balance of rank numbers following the upheaval of the restructure.
Centenary of ANZAC is two years complete, with a further two remaining. This will result in an increased number of representational trips to overseas locations in commemoration of battles fought. At this point in time, ANZAC Day at Villers Bretonneux in 2017 is on the programme, and possible trips to Polygon Woods and Beersheba later in the year. 2018 will be the Army's turn to return to ANZAC Cove for ANZAC Day, with a further possible trip to commemorate HAMEL later in the year. Additionally, Chief of Army has just signed off permission for AAB to travel to the Basel Tattoo in Jul 17, so preparations for that will be underway imminently.
AAB continues to support a number of initiatives within Army, aligned with the Chief's priorities. This year has seen AAB-Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney travel to South Australia to be involved in EX HAMEL, 1RAR Band has travelled three times to Laura (North Queensland) in support of Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Programme, AAB-Adelaide featured heavily during the Chief of Army's Exercise in Adelaide in Aug, and a number of our musicians and tech personnel have assisted with the ADF Arts for Recovery, Resilience, Teamwork and Skills programme, which assists in the recovery of our Wounded, Ill and Injured service personnel. In addition to the above tasks, we continue to supply technical personnel to travel with the Forces Entertainment contingents across to various international locations, and AAB-Brisbane travelled over last Christmas period to entertain the troops in the Middle East Area of Operations.
Item 11 – The 2016 AABC Association’s Award The President announced that the 2016 recipient of the AABC Association’s Award was awarded to SGT John Lewis Mackenzie of the AAB-P. The President advised the meeting that the award of a Minstrel Boy Statuette and a framed citation would be presented to the award winner later in the day at the AAB-P Concert being conducted at Mews Park, Fremantle. The Citation reads:
Australian Army Band Corps Association Award
Sergeant John Mackenzie enlisted into the Army Reserves in 1998 as a Tuba player with the Australian Army Band Perth (AAB-P). Since this date, he has significantly contributed to the ongoing operational effectiveness of the AAB-P by filling capability gaps within the unit. He saw the need for an in-house sound engineer, so he attended defence and civilian courses to attain the competencies required. He is now the chief sound engineer for the unit, fostering younger members to attain similar skills. Several years back, he identified the requirement for a lead guitarist within the unit, so he purchased a guitar and diligently practised for many hours in his own time developing this skill to a very high standard. SGT MacKenzie is now the leader of the Rock Band producing phenomenal guitar solos essential for the contemporary ensemble. This year alone, SGT MacKenzie recognised severe ARA staff shortages within the unit, so he
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reduced his civilian work hours in order to fulfil the role of the Band Sergeant Major (BSM) during a very high tempo period of unit tasking. His no nonsense approach to time management and communicating with Band members has significantly increased the unit’s capabilities this year. A requirement for unit drivers saw him attain truck licences during his personal time and is now the integral component for all self drive unit tasks locally and throughout regional WA. On top of all this, SGT MacKenzie completed his part time University studies, and early this year he received his Mechanical Engineering degree with several high distinctions. His willingness to contribute to Army whilst maintaining his civilian job, advanced study and a young family is a testament to his commitment to the Australian Army Band Perth. SGT MacKenzie is the epitome of a “fight to get” soldier. John Franklin President 22 October 2016 Item 12 - Change to the AABC Association Bank Account The Treasurer, Trevor Beswick addressed the meeting and advised that our current banking account arrangements with Bank Victoria are outdated, not flexible and do not allow us to pay via BPay or Bank Transfer. He said that this is due to their inability of a secondary verification via electronic means. He said we currently pay most bills by having members pay from their personal accounts and reimbursing them via cheque. He proposes the association move from the current account to the Bendigo Bank, which is offering a fee free Community Business Account. This account also provides security tokens which assist in electronic verification for online payments. This is done by the Treasurer initiating a payment request. Those members who are authorised to verify the payment get a message on their phone, and get a unique number on their electronic security token. The go online and authorise the payment using this unique number. Trevor proposed that the we move the current banking account of the Australian Army Band Corps Association to the Bendigo Bank. Moved: Trevor Beswick Seconded: Pat Steer Carried Item 13 - On-Line Finance System Treasurer, Trevor Beswick advised the meeting that the AABC Association’s current finance system (Quickbooks) sits on his ‘hard drive’. This system is copied to Dave Oakley, the Assistant Secretary’s/Data Base Manager’s Server and the Assistant Treasurer, Jim 'Shad' Harper's computer every few months, but he said the risk with this current system is that if anything happens to it on the ‘hard drive’, it's gone. Trevor recommends that by moving to an Online System (‘Reckon’, used to be owned by Quickbooks), the Association get the advantage of having the financial books stored on a server with the advantage of multiple people having access to the information. He said the system is configurable and allows for concurrent (more than one person at a time) users. An example of this could be that the Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer have access to write to the Accounts of the system and the Secretary and President can view this information. In a similar way, the Secretary and Assistant Secretary can be responsible for updating Customer (Member) details into a central system. Trevor said the cost is $11.00 per month and data can be converted from our existing system with minimal cost. Trevor proposed that we move the finance system from Quickbooks to Reckon Online.
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Moved: Trevor Beswick Seconded: Ian Milne Carried ITEM 14 - AABC Association CO-Chaplain Appointment The Secretary addressed the meeting regarding the appointment of Matthew James as Co-Chaplain of the Association. He said our current Chaplain, LTCOL Dennis Hills has been ill for some time and it was essential that the pastoral duties in the Association be maintained with the appointment of Matthew. This information was posted on the Association Website for the member’s information. ITEM 15 – Association Website – Change of Host The Secretary addressed the meeting regarding the Website and advised that Lorraine Cobcroft, our current Website Manager, would no longer be able to support the Association in this role due to long term external work and family commitments. Up until now the website was previously managed through Lorraine's company Rainbow Works and this change required an Association member to be the point of contact with the host, Easy Website Maker. Stu Colhoun has agreed to be the Website Manager and is now dealing directly with the host in the United States. He has initiated the move from Rainbow Works to a standalone website. Stu is also the POC when dealing with the host, including requesting support. This has been done with virtually the same management costs as before. ITEM 16 - AABC 50th Anniversary (Golden Jubilee)/History Association member Andy Ryder addressed the meeting and says he’s been directed by the CO DFSM and supported by CO AAB to write a history of the AABC for the Corps 50th Anniversary in 2018. He is currently collecting information from several sources around the country, including members and ex members of Army bands. As most of our history rests with its members he’s keen to hear from anyone on the topic advising that you can email him at [email protected] if you would like to send him information, call him on Mob: 0487 196 359 or book in for a chat. Andy says he’s been conducting interviews whilst in Perth for the reunion and will continue to do so when he’s back on the east coast. The end result is likely to be at least a book and possibly an online collection. He says he hopes to hear from you on this important project.
Item 17 – AABC Association Newsletter - Distribution The President, John Franklin addressed the meeting regarding the ongoing costs to produce the Association Newsletter three times a year, which he said is costing around $8,000.00 annually. He recommended that unless there were changes to the method of distribution the Association will incur unnecessary overheads. John recommended that except for those members that don’t have access to a computer or have valid reasons to continue receiving the Newsletter by surface mail, the committee would investigate alternative distribution options of either email with the newsletter attached or posting the newsletter onto the website. The committee’s decision with regard to these two options will be posted on the website.
Moved: John Franklin Seconded: Mike Pyne CARRIED
Item 18 – Association Newsletter Update Noteworthy Editor Stuart Colhoun reports he continues to produce the Newsletter and says he’s receiving historical and current photographs that are being included in each edition and says he encourages members to forward stories however brief, plus photographs to make the Newsletter an
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even better publication. He supports the alternate proposal that the Newsletter should be posted on the Website as email distribution can cause concerns or delays through the email system.
GENERAL BUSINESS
Item 19 – NEXT AND FUTURE REUNIONS The President John Franklin advised the meeting that preparations had already begun regarding the 2017 Reunion planned to be held in the Brisbane region. John explained that because of the heightened security concerns and difficulty in gaining access to Defence facilities around Australia, especially in Queensland, plus the high costs of accommodation and venue availability in Brisbane he had already made contact with the Coloundra RSL Club on the Sunshine Coast and investigated the possibility of holding the 2017 Reunion there. John said he would update the committee with the ongoing negotiations and progress with the RSL.
Following the Queensland Reunion in 2017 the venue for the AABC Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2018 is expected to coincide with the Corps Birthday in August, but no date has been set for the Association’s Reunion normally held in October of that year.
A proposal was put forward by Mike Pyne for the 2019 Reunion to be conducted in country Victoria. This will be investigated further by the Committee.
Item 20 - Other Business / Closure With no further General Business the Meeting closed at 11.00am. John Franklin President AABC Association Kevin Noon CSM Secretary AABC Association 22 October 2016
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News and Events
Band Officer Course graduates 2016 Captain Cameron Earl, Captain Richard Mason and
Captain Doug Hall
Warrant Officer Class One John 'Snara' Hadlow paraded with the Band of the 1st Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery for the final time bringing to an end his 51 year career with the Australian Army.
Musician Mansell Laidler of the Australian Army Band Sydney was awarded the Soldiers Medallion for exemplary service by Major Matt Chilmaid.
Staff Sergeant Graeme Curran of the Australian Army Band Tasmania was presented with his second Federation Star, recognising 45 years of service in the Australian Defence Force. The award was presented by Major General David Coghlan AM, who travelled from Melbourne specifically for the presentation.
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Musician Joshua Young from the Band of the Royal Military College sounding the Last Post during the Vietnam Veteran's Day National Service held at the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial on Anzac Parade in Canberra.
1 RAR Band Brass Quintet performing at the Spirit of Anzac Exhibition in Cairns.
Australian Army Band Melbourne led the 2016 AFL Grand Final Parade. The BSM, WO2 Peter Mathison, proudly led the way.
Sergeant Rod Sandercock is farewelled after 43 years of service from Australian Army Band Adelaide by OC Major Dean Griffiths.
MUSN Jaiden Redman of 1RAR Band is presented with the Soldiers Medallion by OC Major Glenn Rogers.
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The newly promoted LTCOL Daniel Hiscock who will be moving the Melbourne as the CO DFSM.
CPL Nic Bowman of Australian Army Band Darwin is congratulated on his promotion to sergeant by Captain Nigel Davey.
Major Dave Thompson, OC Australian Army Band Newcastle , was promoted by CO AAB during a concert at Christchurch Cathedral.
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Soldier Musician Memorial Room
On Wednesday, 7th December the Soldier Musician Memorial Room was dedicated at the Defence Force School of Music. The room was named and dedicated to the service of CPL Peter Fraser MM and PTE Michael Pool KIA and shows to all musicians and others that enter, the sacrifice and bravery of soldier musicians that have paved the path before them. Those attending included members of the Fraser and Poole families and former members of 5RAR Band.
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Royal Guard Band 1988
Royal Guard Drum Corps
Sel King and Ian Winter Ian Milne, HRH, Ivan Davis, Tom Joy
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Balcombe Buildings
The overlay map of Balcombe Barracks over the current subdivision was created by Lutz Preusche and posted on the Army Apprentices Association Facebook page. Responses to the post revealed buildings used changed over time. 1981-82: B3 Area Clothing Store, B4 Army School of Music, A1, A3, A9, A10 School of Music A2 Area Theatre, E21 Apprentice Mess, M1 Character Training (Padres), R25 Everyman's Centre S1 Post Office, S3 Duty Room, W2 Mactier Club
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From the Past
Back: D. Allen, T. Van Gaalen, P. Hamley, J. Costello, R. Turner, B. McCosker, I. John, P. Heels, P. Cobcroft. Centre: J. Seagg, V. Pacecca, K. Simmons, K. Biggs, W. Mann, G. Holtby, T. Letts, B. Whelan, J. Wilkie. Front: D. Devlin, P. Robbine, B. Munchenberg, C. Holton. K. Klein, C. Scragg, M. Allis, J. Curtis, M. Avromovic. Insert: J. Cornwall.
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Editor – Stuart Colhoun The views and opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the contributors and do not reflect the official position of the AABC Association Incorporated, unless otherwise stated. The Editor reserves the right to decide on the publication of any article or item for any edition of Noteworthy.
Phone: 03 5367 8351 E-Mail: [email protected] Mail to: 5 Hammond Circuit HOPETOUN PARK VIC 3340
5 MD Band c1980-81 (l-r) Ian Williams, Bill Honter, Bruce Munchenburg, Colin Harper, ‘Knobby’ Neilsen,
Fred Rooke
RMC Band Ivan Luby and Howard Ward
RMC Band Mick Noyce and Scottie Laycock
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APPENDIX 1
APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP OF THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS ASSOCIATION INC.
I, (name)…………………………………………….…, of (address)…………………………………………………………….…………….............. desire to become a member of the Australian Army Band Corps Association Inc. Phone (Bus): ………………..…. Phone (AH): …………………… Mobile: …………..…..…… Email: ……………………………………………………………... Fax: ……………………… Date of Birth: ………………………Spouse/Partner Name: ……………..………………………. . Service No: ……………………. Bands/units served in and dates: ………….……………...….. ………………………………………………………………………………………….………............. In the event of my admission as a member, I agree to be bound by the rules of the Association for the time being in force. ………………………….. ……………………. Signature of Applicant Date
I, (name) ………………………………………….., a member of the Association, nominate the applicant, who is personally known to me, for membership of the Association. …………………………. ……………………. Signature of Proposer Date I, (name) ………………………………………….., a member of the Association, second the nomination of the applicant, who is personally known to me, for membership of the Association. ………………………….. ……………………. Signature of Seconder Date Forward completed application to: Mr Kevin Noon
Hon Secretary AABC Association Inc. 9 Dennis Place JERRABOMBERRA NSW 2619
Office Use: Committee Notified: Date Ratified: Details in Register: Category: Entrance Fee Paid: Annual Subscription Paid: Receipt:
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