RAAF Vietnam Veterans

Association (Vic)

ABN 34 550 672 219

NEWSLETTER

March 2012 www.raafvva.org.au

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RAAFVVA NEWSLETTER

The official journal of the RAAF Vietnam Veterans Association (Vic), a Sub-Branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Victorian Branch Incorporated.

(Reg. No. A0029247G. ABN 34 750 672 219)

Patron: Air Vice Marshal E. M. Weller AM

PRESIDENT Lee Scully Phone (03) 9827-8313

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Nick LeRay-Meyer AM Phone (03) 9386-6961

VICE PRESIDENT Gareth Davis Phone (03) 9878-7940

SECRETARY Rick Holmes PO Box 462

Ascot Vale Vic 3032

Phone (03) 9317-7304

rickh12@bigpond.com

TREASURER Maree Jongkryg PO Box 73

Melton Vic 3337

Phone (03) 9743-1273

maree.jongkryg@bigpond.com

WELFARE OFFICER Lee Scully Phone (03) 9827-8313

ASST SEC/MEMBERSHIP Gareth Davis Phone (03) 9878-7940

garkaydavis@bigpond.com

COMMITTEE MEMBER Alan White Phone (03) 9598-1007

COMMITTEE MEMBER Pieter Jongkryg Phone (03) 9743-1273

COMMITTEE MEMBER Bob Brackin Phone (03) 5261-2630

COMMITTEE MEMBER Andy Lapins Phone (03) 9511-4693

COMMITTEE MEMBER Geoff Rose Phone (03) 9372-7709

COMMITTEE MEMBER Neil Morgan Phone (03) 9687-8871

COMMITTEE MEMBER Peter Raymant Phone (03) 9583-1053

WEBMASTER Anthony (Tony) Pahl OAM bushranger@internode.on.net SPECIAL PROJECTS Nick LeRay-Meyer AM Phone (03) 9386-6961

RAAF REGIONAL ADVOCACY, WELFARE AND PENSIONS OFFICERS

Bill Wiltshire (Advocacy, Pensions & Welfare) Melton Phone (03) 9746-9582

Ron McMullen (Pensions & Welfare - information only) Laverton Phone (03) 9746-9582

David Taffe (Welfare & Pensions) Kilmore Phone (03) 5782-2779

Lee and Ellen Scully (Welfare) Melbourne Metro Area Phone (03) 9827-8313

Gill Coughlan (Welfare) Melbourne Area Phone 040 850 3986

Andy Lapins (Welfare) Melbourne Area Phone (03) 9511-4693

VETERANS’ CENTRES SUPPORTED BY RAAFVVA

Western Suburbs Veterans and Services Centre Phone (03) 9746-9582 Fax (03) 9746-9583

Melbourne Veterans and Services Centre Phone (03) 9282-3518 Fax (03) 9282-7854

DISCLAIMER

The material, comments and/or extracts of articles appearing in the “RAAF VIETNAM VETERANS NEWSLETTER” is of a

general nature only and neither purports to be, nor is intended to be, advice on any particular matter. No person should act on the

basis of any material contained in the NEWSLETTER without considering, and if necessary, taking appropriate professional advice

upon their circumstances. The RAAFVVA Committee, the authors and publisher expressly disclaim all and any liability to any

person, in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by any such person in reliance, whether whole or partial, upon the whole or

part of the contents of the “RAAFVVA NEWSLETTER”. Any member of the RAAFVVA, or other veteran organisation or any

interested party may submit articles, letters, and advertisements for publication in the NEWSLETTER. The Committee and

Publisher reserve the right to veto any such article, letter or advertisement.

EDITOR: RAAFVVA Committee PUBLISHER: Geoff Rose

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PRESIDENT’S REPORT

2012 RAAFVVA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

I would like to welcome our invited guests, Members/Associate Members, family and friends to the 2012 AGM of the RAAFVVA (Victoria), and thank you for your attendance. My thanks also go out to our hardworking and dedicated Committee Members for their co-operation and efforts on our behalf over the past year. While all warrant this appreciation, special thanks are due to Rick Holmes, Secretary; and Maree Jongkryg, Treasurer. The work performed by Tony Pahl, our Webmaster, is also very much appreciated. Our appreciation also extends to the Board and Staff Members of our hosts for this Meeting – the Australian Air Force Association Victoria. They have been very generous with the assistance so willingly provided (particularly with the Annual Bursary funding), which has enabled our Association to function so effectively.

I believe it would be helpful at the start if I could provide some background to the rationale, which triggered our current action to join with the AFA Victoria. At our 2011 AGM, I discussed the review and ongoing dialogue geared towards determining the future direction of our Association, and the viable options available. This review was highlighted in 2010 by the VVAA Victorian State Branch Council, as an important issue affecting the future of Association Sub-Branches, warranting serious consideration by SB Committees and their Members.

Since then, the State Branch Council has regularly sought input from Member Sub-Branches on their views regarding the eventual wind-up of the VVAA in Victoria, and their plans to meet this eventuality. (A closure period of some 3 – 5 years was initially envisaged). The rationale expressed was that the time was fast approaching for the VVAA to accept, in principle, that the Association had “to a large degree served the purpose for which it was created” with eventual closure warranted. The ageing of members throughout Australia; closure/amalgamation of SB’s due to declining membership; lack of volunteers willing and able to undertake administration/welfare functions etc. have all had a serious overall impact. Funding for Regional Veterans Centres in Victoria has also declined in recent years, seriously affecting the work and information provided for veterans. Current indications are that funding from Federal and State sources will continue to be reduced. Given that Vietnam Veterans established the VVAA for the welfare/assistance of Vietnam Veterans and their families, a concern exists that the Association should not strive to remain in existence by expanding its membership to include veterans without Vietnam associated service. (This does not discount the continuing assistance needs facing younger ADF veterans. It must be stressed that the VVAA at a State and SB level will continue to accept and assist in any way possible, any veteran/family member, from any Conflict requiring such help). A Sub-Branch President’s Workshop was held prior to the 2011 VVAA State AGM at Geelong in February 2011. The Workshop, facilitated by the State Branch President, determined Key Issues to be included in a Terms of Reference paper to subsequently form the basis of the VVAA Victoria, and its Sub-Branches, “Future Directions Plans”.

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Six (6) Key Points were agreed at the Geelong Workshop and then highlighted in the Discussion Paper “Under Our Control” issued September 2011 seeking further consideration by SBs of the major factors likely to lead to Branch/Association closure. This important issue is listed for further discussion at the February 2012 VVAA State Council Meeting at Phillip Island. Our response will now be dictated to by the recent outcome of the majority vote received from Members - on the question of joining/not joining the AFA Victoria as a Vietnam Veterans Branch. (The Voting Forms were included with the December 2011 Newsletter, forwarded to all RAAF VVAA Members/Associates). Some Members expressed a desire (on returned Voting Forms) for our relationship with the VVAA Victoria to remain, and your Committee has ensured the link is retained. Your Committee Members currently retain membership with VVAA Victoria as the RAAF Sub-Branch – an approved position - which allows for relevant input/support by our Members to continue. I can now report that following the tally of Voting Forms returned with Membership renewal fees - total 120 - an overwhelming majority of Members (92.5%) voted in favour of the proposal, for which AFA Victoria Board “in principle” agreement already exists. Following this Meeting, your Committee will begin the necessary action towards establishing our future as the Vietnam Veterans Branch of the AFA Victoria. This will retain our identity as Vietnam Veterans, with our own Newsletter etc. to continue, while linking with the wider State RAAF veteran community. The transition is not likely to be a quick process, and Members will be kept informed of progress. Please note that your current 2012 Membership subscriptions mean no further membership costs will arise, once the new Branch with AFA Victoria is established. The past year was busy and productive with, I believe, very satisfactory outcomes achieved. Highlights of our activities for me included: February 2011 – the Special Commemorative Service at the historic Tahara War Memorial - to add the name of Flt. Lt. Cliff Dohle DSM RAAF (deceased) to the Memorial. April 2011 – Melbourne ANZAC Day March and re-union lunch. August 2011 - Badge Week activities. Badge sales totalled $4085, a sterling effort. Vietnam Veterans Day – Snow Coughlan CGM, Life Member, was the Keynote Speaker. Vietnam Annual Long Tan Commemoration Ceremony at the Ivanhoe Masonic Lodge, conducted by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (Masonic) Lodge. November 2011 – Annual pilgrimage to RAAF Base, Point Cook for a memorial/wreath laying Service at the AFC Memorial. Back to Museum Day at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum, Phillip Island. The new Patron, AVM Alan Reid AO was introduced, with the partly restored Canberra as a backdrop. Our condolences are extended to those of our Association who have lost loved ones in recent times, and to members currently suffering ill health. May you enjoy a swift recovery, and our thanks go out to partners and relatives who have provided love and care for you. For 2012, we look forward to continuing our excellent relationship with AFA Victoria, with a more active and involved status as a Branch of the Association. Make a note that this year is also the anniversary of the 50th Year of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War. It is a historic date, and significant plans are underway to commemorate our service in Vietnam. In keeping with the fine RAAF tradition of “never volunteering for anything”, I can report that your Executive/Committee Members are all standing again for re-election. In conclusion, thanks for your forbearance and attendance at our 2012 AGM. I hope the remainder of 2012 treats you all well and that you enjoy a happy and healthy year ahead. L. Scully President

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ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE

VIETNAM VETERANS ASSOCIATION

Minutes of the 26th Annual General Meeting

Held at the Air Force Association Headquarters

On Sunday 12th February 2012

ODE Prior to the RAAFVVA AGM/Bursary proceedings the Secretary recited the Ode in Honour of the Fallen. President Lee Scully formally welcomed Chairman of the Air Force Association Foundation Air Cdr Bill Belton AM (Ret’d), Mr Richard Orr Treasurer of the AFA, Members, Guests, Bursary recipients and their families. President then invited Bill Belton and Richard Orr to present the Royal Australian Air Force Victoria Branch/RAAFVVA Bursaries. Mr Belton gave a short introduction and then along with Mr Richard Orr presented Bursaries to the following recipients:-

Christopher Lynch for his Commerce studies, Jacob Rowe for his Aeronautical Engineering studies and Brenna Davis-Cornelius for her continuing studies The Incentive Award went to Amy Kerr in recognition of her Electrotechnology studies.

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Air Force Association/RAAFVVA Bursary Awards 2012.

Christopher Lynch

Richard Orr congratulating Jacob Rowe

An Incentive Award was also presented to Amy Kerr

Brenna Davis-Cornelius

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President then invited all guests to stay for the RAAFVVA AGM and refreshments. 1. Opening The President opened the meeting at 1400 hours. 2. Ode See opening Paragraph. 3. Presidents Welcome See opening Paragraph. 4. Attendance Register The attendance register was signed by all persons in attendance and boosted by members of Bursary recipients families. 5. Apologies Alan Reed, Peter Colliver, Mac Weller, Chick and Sue Merceica, Kevin O’Neil, Ron McMullen, Andy Lapins, Neil Boulton, Stan Wicks, Denis Nicol, Kevin Sharpley and Peter Ryan. President advised that Patron AVM Mac Weller AM had sent his best wishes for 2012.

6. Acceptance of previous Minutes Moved Neil Morgan, seconded Alan White that the minutes of the previous AGM be accepted. Carried. 7. Business Arising from previous Minutes Nil. 8. Financial Report for the year ending December 2011 Treasurer Maree Jongkryg presented the Financial Report for the year ending 31st December 2011. President advised that at this stage the Association is in excellent financial health due to the diligence of the Treasurer and the committee. Treasurer pointed out that at the rear of the Financial Report is a list of people who have made donations to the Association. President again made mention of these donations and thanked those who have supported throughout the year. Gill Coughlan requested that as we are all getting older can we increase the font size for future reports. Noted by Treasurer. President commended the Treasurer for her diligence in acting as the RAAFVVA Treasurer whilst also holding down permanent employment. Treasurer received a round of applause.

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Donations Received (01 Jan 11 to 31 Dec 11) from the following members and friends:

Thank you very much to all who donated to RAAFVVA during the year. The amount does not matter – what is important is the money will benefit those who need assistance. 9. Correspondence The Secretary presented the correspondence report with particular emphasis that no email traffic is included. 10. General Business (a) Membership Report for 2011. Gareth Davis, Vice President and Membership Officer gave his report. As at the 12th February 2012 the Association stands at 4 Second Members, 14 Associate Members and 111 Ordinary Members. A total of 129, this is 9 up on the same date last year. Gareth pointed out that numbers are not normally updated/memberships renewed until ANZAC Day when members who haven’t paid up attend and pay their subs. Final figures for last year were 156. (b) Badge Week 2011. President gave a brief summary of Badge Week 2011. Selling points were set up at Sunbury, Highpoint and Bunnings Mentone. Sunbury again was the sales leader followed by Bunnings Mentone and Highpoint. Sunbury RSL, Vietnam Veterans Day and Ivalda Masonic Lodge also contributed. President expressed his gratitude to members who donated their time, energy (and money) to 2011 Badge Week.

(c) Welfare Report. A quiet year for welfare although some issues were finalised. 11. President’s Report.

President thanked guests and members for their attendance and also thanked committee for their efforts throughout the year. President also thanked the Air Force Association for their support for this meeting and indeed for their help throughout the year.

President then presented the reasoning and background of the need for the RAAFVVA to transfer as a Branch to the Air Force Association.

KW Andrews RJ Brackin S Coughlan G Dodd LW Fankhauser GW Garbutt S Hartigan J Kirby PF Lynch N Morgan K O’Neil KJ Reilly E Scully JDJ Smith VJ Taffe D Weir JJ White MBE

LW Baker N Brown GR Davis M Dunne H Farrell RM Greenwood AFC AJ Higginbottom EM Kluukeri RL Mathieson NB Morgan KJ Palmer BW Ridgewell JL Scully GK Stevens MB Vink EM Weller AM S Wicks

RL Biddell J Burton RP Dawson GW Dunston I Favilla DR Grover PT Hirvonen WK Kuiler RN McMullen S Moss LS Pascoe GN Rose GR Sharp DL Stewart RM Wark IR Wescombe AG Wiltshire

N Boulton T Cavanagh D Del Fabbro L Fankhauser GA Forsyth KC Haines BJ Hurlock JFV Lovegrove J Mitchell AM G Norris P Raymant ND Rose KJ Sharpley D Taffe DR Weeks AR White RAAFA

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Question from the floor from Owen Preece regarding dual membership. President answered. David Weeks from the floor also raised the issue of his tenuous position on the State Council due to our transfer to the AFA in regards to his capitation payment. Moved Nick LeRay-Meyer, seconded Bill Rowe that David Weeks be included as part of the RAAFVVA Sub Branch of the VVA (Vic Branch) for capitation purposes. Also moved as part of this motion; any State Executive Member who is a paid up member of the RAAFVVA be included in the RAAFVVA Sub Branch of the VVAA Vic Branch, for capitation purposes. Carried. Snow Coughlan then requested clarification on Life Membership on transfer as a branch to the AFA. President advised that this is one of many items for discussion in the next few months. President then reported on Defence Procurement (our bid for a Caribou). Unfortunately our bid of $1000.00 was unsuccessful. However, the AFA has offered to purchase a propeller on our behalf, which if successful would be donated to the NVVM. No objections from the floor. At this Point Secretary raised a point of order regarding the Financial Report and requested that the Financial Report as presented be accepted. Moved Pieter Jongkryg and seconded by David Weeks that the Financial Report be accepted. Carried. Moved Nick LeRay-Meyer, seconded Alan White that the RAAFVVA formally adopt the proposal of members to move to the Air Force Association Vic Branch as a Branch of that Association and that the RAAFVVA Executive be empowered to facilitate such transfer. Carried unanimously. 12. Election of Office Bearers President advised that all committee members had agreed to continue in their respective posts due to the lack of nominations from members. Committee remains as under:

President/Welfare Lee Scully

Vice President/Membership Gareth Davis

Secretary Rick Holmes

Treasurer Maree Jongkryg

IPP/Special Projects Nick LeRay-Meyer

Committee: Alan White

Pieter Jongkryg Bob Brackin

Andy Lapins

Geoff Rose Neil Morgan

Peter Raymant

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13. Honours and Awards

President presented a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of the Association to Ray Appleford. Ray, prior to a major health setback, worked for On Demand. On Demand has been responsible for printing the RAAFVVA Newsletter for many years at no cost and are staunch supporters of the Association. Despite this health setback, Ray has continued to be an integral part of the RAAFVVA and regularly attends ANZAC Day and other veteran activities.

Ray Appleford receiving his RAAFVVA Certificate of Appreciation from Lee Scully

President then presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the Air Force Association Vic Branch for its support of the RAAFVVA especially in respect to the efforts of office staff to facilitate timely and effective distribution of Care Packages to overseas troops for Christmas 2011.

Award accepted by Richard Orr, Bill Belton, and Nick LeRay-Meyer on behalf of the AFA.

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14. Closure Prior to the closure of the meeting President Lee Scully invited Alan White to address the meeting on various issues of Men’s Health, this included a request for volunteers to undergo a brain scan.

Further information provided in the ‘Health and Welfare’ segment of this Newsletter. Nick LeRay-Meyer then suggested that if you have any metal bits in your body i.e. shrapnel, stents, metal pins etc, do not volunteer. President then closed the meeting at 1430 hours. Rick Holmes Secretary RAAFVVA

92.5% of RAAFVVA members voted in favour.

Lee’s ‘President’s Report’ details the situation so far, however, a number of questions have been raised, via either the Voting Form, or at the AGM. Please be advised that the Air Force Association Board will hold a Special Meeting to discuss and address any concerns raised by RAAFVVA members.

Both Associations aim to achieve a smooth and satisfactory transition. The next edition of your Newsletter will include outcome of the AFA’s meeting and hopefully answer all your queries.

AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION

& RAAF VIETNAM VETERANS ASSOCIATION

WHAT WILL THE FUTURE HOLD?

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NOTICE BOARD

WHERE, and WHAT

TIME? As indicated on the map, RAAFVVA will form-up in Flinders Street, near Russell Street, (in front of Federation Square). Rick Holmes will be in that position with the RAAFVVA Banner at approximately 1000, anticipating a step-off for the March at 1030 hrs. We look forward to seeing as many members as possible and invite you and your family to attend the RAAFVVA after-march lunch at ‘Citro’ restaurant, on St Klida Rd.

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RAAFVVA Monthly Luncheon

The next monthly luncheon is planned for Wednesday, 21st March at Melbourne’s newest hotel - the Mail Exchange Hotel - located at 688 Bourke Street, City, (corner of Bourke and Spencer).

Generally, our monthly luncheons are planned for the third Wednesday of each month. Dates for remainder of the year will be posted on our website as soon as available.

Dan Nebauer

Served in the RAAF for 25 yrs, including SVN,

with 35 Squadron, from

‘67 to ’68.

*RAAFVVA member, Dan Nebauer, attended our February luncheon and offered discount to all

current and ex ADF members. Dan has specialized in Asian travel for more than 23 years, but assures his experienced staff will cater for all travel needs - international and/or domestic.

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DID YOU KNOW AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD GRAHAM DUNSTAN OAM, RAAFVVA MEMBER President and Committee, on behalf of all members, extend congratulations to Graham Dunstan RAAFVVA member in SA on his award of the OAM for services rendered to veterans in SA. (Graham served with RTFV in 1964)

Membership drive for Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Association

Dear All, I am on the Board of Directors for the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Association and together with a consortium of fellow aviation enthusiasts we are applying to gain approval for an ex-RAAF F111 for the museum so we need to now get the members up as part of this push. Please find attached a copy of the application form to join the volunteer group which will be responsible for maintaining and flying the aircraft which will be stored at the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Museum. In the first year the Joining Fee, $10 and Membership Fee $10 are being waived! Yes nothing to pay until at least 2013! Please complete the attached form and return it to myself at my personal email address or my work one at srochford@atae.com.au . I would also appreciate it if you could help us find more suitable members for the Association so please forward this on to anyone in your circle of friends who may be interested. We are only after names for our application at this point and this will no way commit you to anything. If you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me by email, at home, at work or on my mobile. Regards

Shane Rochford Mobile: 04 1606 1602 Phone: 07 5465 7523 Work: 07 3277 7227 shanearochford@hotmail.com

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HEALTH and WELFARE

Do you know of someone who has had a stroke recently or in the past – possibly

someone within your family, relatives, friends, or another vet? Then you might have some idea of the struggle and time required for them in rehabilitation.

There may be a way you can help in the field of research that is looking at ways of improving the understanding how the brain operates, and its activity, especially

related to touch.

The Melbourne Brain Centre at Austin Health, Heidelberg, along with The

National Stroke Research Institute, are looking for volunteers to assist in their research that will lead to understanding the networks in the brain that help us to sense touch. This is just one of the aims the centre is considering, and the study is

called:– CoNNECT

“Connecting New Networks for Everyday Contact through Touch.”

You will be required to lay in an MRI while a scan is done of your brain, so now you

will get to see if you have more than half a brain – and, if it is still working! And you get a copy of your brain scan to prove you have one!

But you must be free of pace makers and any ‘metals’ in your body, like hip replacements, metal inserts, stents and ‘shrapnel’.

For more information or if you want to be become involved, contact Leanne Carey, Principal Investigator on 9035-7088 or email lcarey@unimelb.edu.au or Research

Assistant, Gemma Lamp, 9035-7044 or email glamp@unimelb.edu.au

As more veterans are experiencing strokes as we get older this is one way we can support, if indirectly, our brothers in arms, and their families.

If you do decide to contact Leanne, please let her know where you found out about the study (this newsletter). If are unable to assist please pass this information onto

others who may be able to help in the study, we don’t know when, or who, might be next to be afflicted by a stroke.

Live long, live well.

Alan White Men’s Peer Health Educator

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STROKE IDENTIFICATION During a BBQ, a woman stumbled and took a little fall - she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) ....she said she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes. They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food. While she appeared a bit shaken up, Jane went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening. Jane's husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital - (at 6:00 pm Jane passed away.) She had suffered a stroke at the BBQ. Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Jane would be with us today. Some don't die. They end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead. Neurologists say that if they can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours they can totally reverse the effects of a stroke... totally. The trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough. RECOGNISING A STROKE

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify, and the stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

1. Ask the person to smile 2. Ask them to raise their arms 3. Ask a question that they have to respond to.

NB: New Sign of a Stroke - Stick out Your Tongue. Question 4. Ask the person to 'stick' out his/her tongue. If the tongue is 'crooked', or if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke. If he or she has trouble with any ONE of these tasks, immediately call 000, and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

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SECRETARY'S SNIPPETS Hi all,

Again a busy period. Hope you all had a bit of a break over Christmas and now back into the swing of things for 2012. At our age, and I use the term loosely as I am a lot younger than most of you, things seem to be moving faster.

The AGM went well, although significant was the drop in number of members who attended. Something for us to ponder for next year. Great to see Peter Ruston make the trip from Tassie.

ANZAC DAY 2012 - IMPORTANT INFORMATION!

We set up same as last year adjacent to Fed Square near Russell Street, look for the Banner. Timing, don’t know, but the schedule states around 1000-1030 so be early or at least on time. A good time to catch up and swap stories.

Lunch will again be at Citro. It is handy and the food is good. Hopefully we will put some introductory drink money over the bar.

Monthly lunch for March will be held on Wednesday the 21st at the

Mail Exchange Hotel, (corner of Bourke and Spencer Streets) commencing at 1200 hours.

Finally, as I say every edition, if you change your email/contact details let me know.

Regards to you all

Rick

Freemasons help Vietnam Vet Black Saturday Fire Survivor.

After the Black Saturday Fires I was in Kinglake as Commanding Officer of the 370 strong Army Task Group, providing Recovery to the communities of the Kinglake Ranges. One day at my evening Orders Group, my Infantry Company Commander informed me that one of his Platoon Commanders had met a local Vietnam Vet during one of their daily patrols of the area.

They struck up a conversation and the young Subbie learnt that the vet had lost most of his possessions in the fires, including his Service Medals. I directed the Company Commander to have his Platoon Commander find the Vietnam Vet again the next day in order to gain details of exactly which medals had been lost.

The next evening I received the details and through WBro Clinton Breeze of Victorian Naval & Military Lodge, I was able to contact a fellow VNM Brother - Ben Hirst who runs a medal mounting company. Fortunately Ben had the said medals in stock and so, overnight, Ben and his adult son (also of VNM) worked to have the medals mounted.

I had a staff car pick up the medals from Ben the next morning. The Medals were sent to the young Lieutenant who presented them to the Vietnam Vet that afternoon.

That was three years ago and I am certain that to this day, no one is wise to the fact that the Masons were able to do a small but significant deed for a Veteran.

Craig Madden, Lt Col, Project Manager, LWDC, Puckapunyal

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THE PADRE’S PAGE

REMBEMBER OUR POSITION

In her book “The Legacy of a Pack Rat”, Ruth Ball

Graham (the daughter of Dr Billy Graham) challenges us

to examine our standards.

“The local sheriff had decided to tighten requirements

for his deputies. Each man had to qualify on the firing

range, and the distance had been extended from fifteen

yards to twenty-five yards. So the deputies gathered to

try their hand at hitting the target at the increased

distance. Each man had eighteen seconds to get off

twelve shots.

The best shot in the area is also a personal friend,

George Burgin, who together with his wife, Corene,

keeps an eye on Bill and me. The day before the trials,

he had been fitted with his first pair of trifocals. When

his time came to shoot, he drew a bead on the target.

“Suddenly”, as he told me later, “I began to perspire, my

glasses fog up. There I was, with a bead drawn on the

target, and all I could see was fog.”

“Then, I remember what our old Navy instructor had

taught us: “If (for some reason) you ever lose sight of

the target”, he said, “just remember your position.”

“So”, our friend said, “I just held my position and pulled

the trigger as fast as I could. By then I had less than

eighteen seconds, but I got off all twelve shots. When I

took off my glasses and wiped them, I had hit the bull’s-

eye every time.”

There are times when we, for some reason, lose sight of

our target – which is to glorify our Lord. The world is

too much with us. Tears blur our vision. Unexplained

tragedy raises questions that cannot be answered and

shakes our faith to its foundations.

Then we must remember our position, for the Christian’s position is “in Christ”. As if we were

tired or hurt children, He will gather both us and our loads. Though we may not, for some reason,

see the target, if we just “remember our position”, we won’t miss.”

When God feels far away, don’t despair, He is actually just as close as the times when you sense

His presence. Ask God to open your eyes to His invisible work in life. Trust that He is working in

ways you might not be able to see. Each day remember that you are His special child. Don’t ever

forget that.

God bless you and all your loved ones.

As ever, George G.

(Rev) George G Ashworth, OAM

24 Domain Road, JAN JUC, Vic, 3229

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VALE

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

RAAF VVA MEMBER

Peter (Bart) Barry RICHARDSON

35 Sqn – Jul 70 to June 71

01st March 2012

RAAF Vietnam Veteran

William (Bill) James CROUCH

9 Sqn – Jul 70 to Jul 71

15th

February 2012

Lynton Thomas WINN BSc BEc 2 Sqn – Sep 70 to Jul 71

19th

February 2012

LEST WE FORGET

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Australia.... wake up time

When the shearing sheds are silent and the stock camps fallen quiet

When the gidgee coals no longer glow across the outback night

And the bush is forced to hang a sign, 'Gone broke and won't be back'

And spirits fear to find a way beyond the beaten track

When harvesters stand derelict upon the wind-swept plains

And brave hearts pin their hopes no more on chance of loving rains

When a hundred outback settlements are ghost towns overnight

When we've lost the drive and heart we had to once more see us right

When 'Pioneer' means a stereo and 'Digger' some backhoe

And the 'Outback' is behind the house - there's nowhere else to go

And 'Anzac' is a biscuit brand and probably foreign owned

And education really means brainwashed and neatly cloned

When you have to bake a loaf of bread to make a decent crust

And our heritage once enshrined in gold is crumbling to dust

And old folk pay their camping fees on land for which they fought

And fishing is a great escape; this is until you're caught

When you see our kids with Yankee caps and resentment in their eyes

And the soaring crime and hopeless hearts is no longer a surprise

When the name of RM Williams is a yuppie clothing brand

Not a product of our heritage that grew off the land

When offering a hand makes people think you'll amputate

And two dogs meeting in the street is what you call a 'Mate'

When 'Political Correctness' has replaced all common sense

When you're forced to see it their way, there's no sitting on the fence

Yes one day you might find yourself an outcast in this land

Perhaps your heart will tell you then, 'I should have made a stand'

Just go and ask the farmers that should remove all doubt

Then join the swelling ranks who say, ‘don't sell Australia out’

Author unknown

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ON THE LIGHTER SiDE

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Older men - they only get wiser!

A woman decides to have a facelift for her 50th birthday. She spends $15,000 and

feels pretty good about the results.

On her way home, she stops at a news-stand to buy a paper. Before leaving, she says

to the clerk, “I hope you don't mind my asking, but how old do you think I am?”

“About 32,' is the reply.” “Nope, I'm exactly 50,” the woman says happily.

A little later she goes into McDonald's and asks the counter girl the very same

question.

The girl replies, “I'd guess about 29.” The woman replies with a big smile, “I'm 50!”

Now she's feeling really good about herself. She stops in a Milk Bar on her way down

the street. She goes up to the counter to get some mints and asks the shopkeeper

this burning question.

He responds, “Oh, I'd say 30.” Again she proudly responds, “I'm 50, but thank you!”

While waiting for the bus to go home, she asks an old man waiting next to her the same

question.

He replies, “Lady, I'm 78 and my eyesight is going. Although, when I was young there

was a sure-fire way to tell how old a woman was. It sounds very forward, but it

requires you to let me put my hands under your bra. Then, and only then, can I tell

you EXACTLY how old you are.”

They wait in silence on the empty street until her curiosity gets the best of her. She

finally whispers, “What the heck, go ahead.”

He slips both his hands under her blouse and begins to feel around - very slowly and

carefully. He bounces and weighs each breast – and gently pinches each end. He

pushes her breasts together and rubs them against each other.

After a couple of minutes of this, she says, “Okay, okay.....How old am I?”

He completes one last squeeze, removes his hands,

and says, “Madam, you are 50 years old.”

Stunned and amazed, the woman says, “That is

incredible, how could you tell?”

The old man says, “Promise you won't get mad?”

“I promise I won't”, she says.

“Well, I was standing behind you at McDonalds.”

26

THE VIETNAM VETERANS ASSOCIATION VICTORIAN BRANCH (Incorporated)

IS A REGISTERED CHARITY. DONATIONS

The VVAA Victorian Branch is a registered charity which means that all of the 30 sub-branches can

raise funds from public donations and provide Tax deductable receipts for all donations over $2,

providing the funds are used for welfare. Some VVAA members have already adopted our Association as their family charity. All that is

needed is to make out a cheque payable to the Sub-branch Welfare Fund and forward it to the

Treasurer who will provide the Tax deductable receipt by return mail. Even the smallest donation is

very much appreciated.

BEQUESTS AND LEGACIES

Making a Will is good planning. It provides you and those for whom you care with peace of mind,

ensures the security of you family, and enables bequests to be made to those charities that represent

your ongoing interests and concerns. Bequests and Legacies are gifts of specifically identified possessions or specified sums of money

gifted to a person, a group of people or an organization. If the VVAA is your charity then the

correct title of the charity is Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Victorian Branch

Welfare Patriotic Fund Please consider our Association as a charity. Remember, one day the person in need of assistance

may be you or a member of your family. VVCS - VETERANS and VETERANS FAMILIES COUNSELLING SERVICE

(A Service Founded by the Vietnam Veterans) Normal Hours: 86408700

Crisis Line (after hours) 1800 011 046

DVA VICTORIA

Normal Hours: 9284 6000

Country/Regional: 1800 555 254

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In Hospital or Convalescing at Home? Like us to know about it and/or have someone to visit to assist or just chat? Name:…………………………………………………………………………………..….......... Address:……………………………………………………………………………………........ Preferred Contact details:……..…………………………………………………………..........

Post or Email your request to the Secretary or give him a call on 9317 7304 and we will try

and arrange a visit on your behalf.