Secretary’s Report 1997
Jottings From The Secretary
I have received letters from old mates from all Batteries and many from wives and family members after the death of their loved one. They bring back many memories of events of years ago.
In a letter from Vic Kent’s daughter, Ann Lee said she would appreciate hearing from anyone who knew and served with her Dad. Ann’s address is 36 Orange Grove, Castle Hill, NSW 2154.
I have answered many questions asked by Eric MaxwelL son of Vern. Others in our Association have also helped Eric, so he has a picture of his Dad’s service not previously known to his family. We caught up with John Graham of Sydney who advised us of Bob Catchlove’s death.
Beryl, widow of Raleigh Hawkins, wrote to tell us that Raleigh would have been proud to know that his grandson Simon graduated from Duntroon and the ADFA and is now in the Artillery in Adelaide. (We’re proud to know that too).
We received a nice letter from Gwen, widow of Rol Tonkin (7). Rol was Mentioned in Despatches for his secret operations in Prison Camp. Whilst working for M15 he was also awarded the French/German Star.
Alan “Bushy” Read in Buderim wrote to say he couldn’t recognise Hughie Hill and Norm Marshall from photos in Take Post. So! Fifty years later!
Hec Bird hasn’t been so good.
Dave Owens sends his regards to old mates.
George Bartlett, Workshops, finds it a bit too far to get to reunions.
Ted Sands actually recognised himself in Take Post.
Bill Cassidy (7) has told his story of 4 years as a POW to his son Barry.
Good to see Bill Schack at the last reunion – keep coming Bill.
Rod, son of Richard Smith (7), attended the last reunion and found two of Richard’s mates who were able to relate some stories to Rod.
If anyone did not get a copy of “On Target” copies are available at Eastern Regional and Parkdale Libraries and we know several members presented copies to other libraries.
The December 1996 “Mufti” had a two-page spread on Neil Anderson (7) and a photo of the Dirty Thirteen; it’s well worth reading.
Were you camped at Caboolture? A history is being written by David Sinclair of 3 Henzell Street, Redcliff, Qld. 4020.
A display of a Bofors in a gun pit is about finished. David would appreciate any photos taken at Caboolture (with captions).
lf you are able, do help this great effort of the Caboolture Historical Society,
Did any POWs Europe who contacted Dr. Barter in Canberra receive an acknowledgment from her? If so, would you please let me know by adding a note on your Reunion response note.
John Campbell.