THURUNKA
THURUNKA, September 2011
1
September 2011
Newsletter of the
Royal Australian Signals Association (NSW) Inc.
Patron MAJGEN R.P. Irving AM PSM RFD (Retd)
Including the
Aust. Lines of Communication Signals Association
President:
Mr C.J. (Chris) Ballantine
8/62-64 Lynwood Avenue
CROMER NSW 2099
Ph: 02 9972 4957
Mobile: 0431 422 247
Secretary
Mr M. (Mike) McEvoy
13 Mitchell Road
MOSMAN NSW 2088
Ph: 02 9968 1777
cjb47@optusnet.com.au
mmcevoy@bigpond.net.au
Treasurer
Mr A. (Peewee) Johnston
P.O. Box 85
SURRY HILLS NSW 2010
Ph: (02) 9319 0893
Editor:
Mr K.W.G. (Ken) Forway
28 Mendelssohn Avenue
EMERTON NSW 2770
Ph: 02 9628 7511
Mobile: 0402 373 494
Aust L of C Sigs Ass’n Rep
Mr N. (Norm) McMahon
288 Kissing Point Road
TURRAMURRA
Phone: (02) 9144 2645
thurunka@hotmail.com
normmcmahon@optusnet.com.au
Coming Events - 2011
In this issue
Update your diary NOW!
Activity
Day
Date Time
Location
Committee Meeting 5
DFSS Corps Dinner
Eastern Region Corps Dinner
Annual Memorial Service
Annual General Meeting
** Committee Luncheon
Rhumb Corps Luncheon
THURUNKA December edition
Wed 28 Sep, 1100 hrs Boutique Hotel
Fri 4 Nov
Defence Force School of Sigs
Fri 18 Nov, 18301830-1900 hrs Vic Brks Offrs Mess
Sun 13 Nov, 1100 hrs Signal Hill, South Head
Sun 13 Nov, 1230 hrs Paddington RSL Club
Sun 4 Dec, 1200 hrs TBA
Wed 7 Dec, 1200 hrs CTA Club
Early-December
** TBA Dates and details to be announced TBC Dates and details to be confirmed
NB: Dates and details of events may change but are constantly reviewed in an attempt to
advise changes to members in a timely manner.
Please note:
note The Committee meetings now convene at the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel (the
old Masonic Club), 169-171 Castlereagh Street, Sydney, commencing 1100hrs. ALSO the
AGM and Annual Memorial Service are now on 13th November.
Eastern Region
RASigs Corps
Dinner
Combined Offr/
Sgts function
Annual
Memorial
Service
Annual
General
Meeting
Victoria Barracks
Officers’ Mess
Signal Hill, South
Head
Paddington RSL
Club
1830 for 1900 hrs,
18th November, 2011
1100hrs,
13 November, 2011
1230hrs,
13th November, 2011
More details inside
More details inside
More details inside
th
Coming Events
• ER RASigs Corps Dinner
• Memorial Service & AGM
• Road trip for Vietnam vets
Recent Events
• Reserve Forces Day
• Medallion Parade
Association Matters
• Australia honours members
• Welcome
VALE / Sick Parade
Corps matters
• Queen’s birthday honours
• Top Defence appointments
• RASigs 40th reunion
In the Blue corner
FYI
• Conspicuous Service
awards
Military History
• ‘Scytale’
• Jointing cables
Book review
• Letters from Timor
• Letters, emails & faxes
Tail-end Charlie
• Jack Jewry Reserve
Next Issue
Copy for the next issue of
THURUNKA must be in
the hands of the Editor,
Ken Forway,
28 Mendelssohn Avenue
EMERTON 2770.
Or by e-mail:
thurunka@hotmail.com
NO LATER THAN
11th November 2011.
THURUNKA, September 2011
2
Eastern Region RASigs Corps Dinner
COL James Roche, G6 at HQ Forces Command, has advised
that the 2011 ER RASigs Corps Dinner will be held on Fri
18th November 2011 at the Victoria Barracks Officers Mess.
As the dinner will not be subsidised by the Mess, full
commercial rates will apply, hopefully under $65 (TBC
shortly). Dress: Mess Dress Summer (White Jacket) or
Dinner Suit with miniatures. Timing: 1830 for 1900hrs.
It has been the custom to invite all Association members
irrespective of rank as long as they are not a serving OR/
JNCO.
If you wish to attend, please register with a committee
member, (refer to the front page) so that we can keep you
advised of any progress or amendments that may arise
concerning the dinner.
Annual Memorial Service and
Annual General Meeting
The date of the Annual Memorial Service and the AGM has
been set for Sunday, 13th November, 2011. The timings and
venues are planned to follow previous years; that is 1100hrs
for the memorial service at Signal Hill and 1230hrs at the
RSL club. Please refer to the attachment at the rear of
THURUNKA for the Agenda for the AGM (with
Nomination Form) and the Financial Statement.
If anyone is considering nominating for the committee
(which is encouraged), please contact either the President or
Secretary for a brief on duties and responsibilities.
By the way…
What’s this rust bucket!
Who can identify this former Army vehicle at
Marble Bar, WA?
Free Road trip for
Vietnam Vets
Media Release June 2011
Wicked Campers is currently offering
all Vietnam Vets a FREE road trip.
The special entitles each Vietnam Vet
to complimentary campervan rental for
five days. Wicked owner John Webb
said the aim of the deal was to say
thank you for the huge contribution
the Vets have made to our country.
“It’s my way of showing our
appreciation,” he said. “For any Vets
who have a bit of spare time, it’s a
great way to see more of Australia for
free.”
The approximate value of the giveaway
is $300.
WICKED OFFER FOR VIETNAM
VETS
5-day complimentary road trip for
Vietnam Vets (subject to availability).
Vans available from Wicked Depots in
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth,
Adelaide, Airlie Beach, Alice Springs,
Broome, Byron Bay, Cairns, Darwin,
Exmouth, Hervey Bay and Hobart.
Wicked vans sleep 2-3 people and are
fully equipped with a kitchenette,
camping stove, internal table and
lounge, and a camping table and
chairs. The deal is available for 2 or 3
seater models.
Re-location deals are also often
available for only $1 a day.
Wicked Campers are in 14 locations
across Australia, with around 900 vans
nationwide. They provide an
affordable way for travellers to see the
country, combining transport and
accommodation into one cheap price.
Wicked has also expanded overseas,
with depots in Canada, USA,
Thailand, Chile, Africa, New Zealand
and the UK.
To make a booking, phone
Wicked Campers on 1800 246 869.
For media inquiries contact:
Helen Leech
Ph: 07 3333 2676
E: h.leech@wickedcampers.com
THURUNKA, September 2011
3
Reserve Forces Day - Sydney, 2011
RASigs Ass’n contingent marching on to
parade
It was a sunny but cool day in Sydney
for the Reserve Forces Day on the
Domain; it attracted over 1500
Reservists to march onto the Parade
Ground.
As reported by Mike McEvoy
T
his year's Reserve Forces Day
(RFDay) Parade in the
Domain, behind Parliament House,
Sydney was notable for the presentation
of Medallions to the supporters of those
who served in the Reserves. Four
Members of our Association had
nominated their spouse for the
Medallion. Interestingly each of the
four had 28 years service in the CMF.
Fortunately the day was sunny
after a week of foul weather and the
parade ground at the Domain was firm
from the rain rather than a dust bowl
that it can be. Our President Chris
Ballantine and Association SGTMAJ
Barry Izzard had arranged with Army
Cadets from 21 Australian Army Cadet
Unit at Penrith to carry the Association
Banner on the Parade. As it turned out
the parade organisers decided not to
have guy ropes for banners and this
freed up cadets to carry banners for
other Associations. On the day our
President and ASM could not be
present so Ken Myers was Acting
President and John Rowlands Acting
ASM with Ken Forway in the role of
Escort Officer for the Medallions.
The Medallions were presented
before the main parade and there were
many recipients. Our guests and wives
enjoyed the spectacle and went home
happy.
There was a little seating
confusion but that was quickly sorted
by the wives policy of we are here and
staying. The medallion presentation
confusion was sorted by the good will of
those involved accompanied with
laughter but the 'on parade'
presentation of medals went to plan.
It was disappointing that so few
of our members attended and that the
cadet banner party did not parade with
the association members but were
posted around the parade perimeter.
They provided great support and went
home happy to have a coffee. We and
many other Associations made known
to the parade organisers that we are not
happy with the arrangement of
Association banners not marching with
their respective Associations.
Following the presentation the
parade commenced and once the
various formations such as Navy, 2
Division, 5 Brigade, 8 Brigade and the
RAAF marched on to the parade
ground and we waited for the Governor
to arrive.
The governor was 10 minutes
late in arrival and inspected on foot all
on parade, taking 30 minutes. This
period of standing made limbs and
muscles a little sore, but as old soldiers
do it was toughed out.
This year there were three bands
plus pipers and this added to the
ceremonial effect. The parade itself, the
march on and off was a great spectacle
plus the day provided an opportunity
for the kids to get close and touch the
military vehicles and equipment.
Unfortunately the public address
system was faulty and those on parade
could not hear all the commands or the
speeches.
There were just five members of
our Association on parade not
including the Acting President, ASM
and yours truly as Standard Bearer. We
may have to consider whether the
Association should attend the RFDay
March next July unless we can count on
more members to join us.
A Stunning Senior
Moment
A self-important college student,
while walking along the beach, took
it upon himself to explain to a senior
citizen, who was resting on the
steps, why it was impossible for the
older generation to understand the
younger generation.
“You grew up in a different
world; actually an almost primitive
one”, the student said loud enough
for others to hear.
“The young people of today grew
up with television, jet planes, space
travel, with man walking on the
moon. We have nuclear energy and
ships and mobile phones,
computers...and many more”.
After a brief silence, the senior
citizen responded as follows, "You're
right son; we didn't have those
things when we were young...so we
invented them. Now, you arrogant
#$@&*^, what are you doing for the
next generation?
The applause was amazing!
THURUNKA, September 2011
4
The Medallion Presentation Parade
As reported by Ken Forway
Our Secretary, Mike McEvoy carried
the Standard and John Rowlands
stood in for Barry Izzard as the
Association Sgt Major (ASM). Major
Ken Myer (Retd) stood in as Acting
President for Chris Ballantine. Ken
Forway was our Escort Officer for the
medallion recipients at the
presentation. Norm Symon and
Robert Eaglesham also sent their
apologies owing to unavoidable
circumstances.
T
his year was a first for us in
that we had the support of the
21st Cadet Unit, Penrith as our Banner
Party. The cadets quickly picked up the
task in hand and were a credit to us.
From all indication the Cadets enjoyed
the participation and we thank them
for their participation. We look
forward to their support and
association next year.
This year was the recognition of the
partners’ and families contribution in
the support of Reserve members. In
acknowledgement, a medallion parade
was conducted prior to the main parade
to present over 500 spouses/partners
with a medallion in appreciation.
The members of the WRAAC
Association were Medallion Tray
Holders and marched on with the
Presentation Officers (Association
Presidents) with the Banner Parties
forming a backdrop to the presentation.
The medallion recipients were then
escorted onto the parade ground and
formed up. Signals Corps recipients
WRAAC
Sue
Weddell
was our
Medallion
Tray
Holder
were grouped with Engineers and
Intelligence Corps Associations for the
purpose of the presentation. Major
John Hanley (Retd), from RAE
presented the medallions with WRAAC
Sue Wellard as the Medallion Tray
Holder while family and friends
watched and cheered in recognition.
After the presentation, parade
dignitaries came onto the parade
ground to personally congratulate the
recipients and spent time in open
discussion with them. MAJGEN Craig
Williams, COMD 2DIV (and an exRAE) mingled among the throng and
drew attention from those in our ranks
The mood was exciting and joyous and
appreciated by all for the contribution
that the partners and families had
‘suffered’ in the support of the Reserve
members.
After group photos were taken, the
recipients were escorted off the parade
ground and returned to their seats and
the Parade was marched of to the
combined bands in preparation for the
main parade.
In all, four medallions were presented
to RASigs members partners; Wendy
Symon, Pauline Rowlands, Glenda
Forway and Rachel Izzard. Wendy
Symon and Pauline Rowlands were
presented their medallions on the
preceding Tuesday personally by the
Governor at a ceremony at
Government House.
Mrs Glenda Forway being presented her
medallion by Major John Hanley in
recognition of her support to her husband
Ken Forway as a member of the Army
Reserve.
Congratulations are extended to these
four recipients for the valued
contributions that you and your
families gave in supporting your partner
during his service in the Army Reserve.
A sincere ‘thank-you’ goes out to the
members of the WRAAC Association
for their assistance in the medallion
presentation. Not only were they the
Medallion Tray Holders, but were
responsible for the conduct of the
Presentation Parade. RSM-WRAAC
certainly had her say in her direct
approach at the parade rehearsal, two
weeks earlier.
The group of Engineer, Sigs and Intel
Medallion Recipients with Major John
Hanley and WRAAC Sue Weddell.
THURUNKA, September 2011
5
Association website: http://www.rasigs.com/nsw
Australia Honours Our Members
It is with great pride that we are able to announce that two of
our members were mentioned in the Queen’s Birthday
Honours List for 2011. They are LT COL Susan Coyle and
WO1 Carol Ward.
Lieutenant Colonel Susan May COYLE, NSW was awarded
the Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC)
For outstanding achievement as the Commanding
Officer of the 17th Signal Regiment.
Lieutenant Colonel Coyle has instilled a preparedness culture
within the unit which was evidenced by the rapid response to
Operation VIC FIRE ASSIST. Her philanthropic work to
support a former corps soldier while commanding a
technically complex unit, working at a high operational
tempo, was inspiring. She is an outstanding commander and
leader, and her performance as the Commanding Officer of
the 17th Signal Regiment reflects great credit on herself and
the Australian Army.
Below is a list of some of our New Members. We welcome
you all and trust that your membership will be a positive
experience to us all.
CPL**
LCPL
Mr
WO2
CAPT
SGT
CPL
CAPT
SIG**
SIG
SGT
LT
CAPT
LCPL
CPL**
CPL**
CPL
SIG**
Marty Agnew
Marcus Andersen
Ian Bosman
Helen Brown
Ed Chan
Chris Denny
Matthew Doyle
David Herbertson
Lewy Lewis
Bryce Lightbody
Aron Looker
Anthony Lum
Steve Markham
Peta Reeves
Geoff Staunton
Dan Stoll
Jannelle Thoms
Lucas Watson
** = Rank at discharge
ex-DNSDC
8 Sig Regt
West Ryde
APA-S
142 Sig Sqn
142 Sig Sqn
17 Sig Regt
2 CDO Regt
Seven Hills
126 Sig Sqn
17 Sig Regt
2 CDO Regt
301 Sig Sqn
8 Sig Regt
ex-104 Sig Sqn
ex-SOHQ
8 Sig Regt
Strathfield
Warrant Officer Class 1 Carol Ann Ward, NSW was
awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal (CSM)
For meritorious achievement as the Staff Officer
Grade Three Personnel, Headquarters New South
Wales Australian Army Cadets Brigade.
We congratulate both members and wish them well in their
continuing military career.
We have included in FYI descriptions of the CSC and CSM
for your information.
More information visit the following websites:
IT’S AN HONOUR WEBSITE: www.itsanhonour.gov.au
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE: www.defence.gov.au
Norm McMahon has advised us of the demise of Bob
'Shelley' Shellard from the Australian Lines of
Communication Signals Association who has fallen since
our last edition of THURUNKA….ED.
Vale from Blue Hawkins
Blue has advised us of the following.
VALE – George Robertson
42734 George Arthur (Robbie) Robertson, 110 Sig Sqn
Vietnam
http://www.vietnamroll.gov.au/VeteranDetails.aspx?
VeteranId=1232607
Date of Birth 26 July 1922
Date of Death 8 August 2011
It is with sadness and regret that we have been advised of
the passing of another valued servant of Australia and the
Royal Australian Corps of Signals. He will be sorely
missed by his family and friends.
Ted (Blue) Hawkins
Phone 07 5499 3704
Lest We Forget
THURUNKA, September 2011
6
Corps Matters
RASIGS Corps website: http://www.defence.gov.au/army/RASIGS/default.htm
Queen's Birthday Honours List,
2011 (cont)
In Association Business we told you of two of our members
who were who were recognised in the list.
Here we tell of other Corps members who have been
recognised. We congratulate these members, thank them for
their valued contribution and wish them all the best in their
military career.
The following members of the Royal Australian Corps of
Signals were recognized in the Queen's Birthday Honours
List:
Commendation for Distinguished Service
Colonel David John HAY, NSW
For distinguished performance of duties in warlike operations
while Commanding Officer, Force Communication Unit 3
on Operation SLIPPER in the Middle East Area of
Operations in 2010. Colonel Hay provided outstanding and
exemplary service as Commanding Officer, Force
Communication Unit 3 on Operation SLIPPER in 2010.
His exceptional leadership, outstanding technical mastery,
and vision ensured operational communication requirements
throughout Afghanistan and the wider Middle East Area of
Operations were met at the highest possible levels of
availability and reliability at all times. His personal effort and
motivation to deliver best possible capability, despite terrain
and technical challenges in a rapidly changing systems
environment, resulted in unprecedented network capability.
Conspicuous Service Cross
Brigadier Gregory Francis DOWNING, ACT
For outstanding achievement as Director General Australian
Defence Test and Evaluation Office, Capability
Development Group.
Colonel Downing established the Australian Defence Test
and Evaluation Office and introduced significant reforms to
the way Defence assesses new weapons systems, land vehicles,
ships and aircraft before they are introduced into service,
improving the quality of critical advice to senior Defence
decision-makers and the Government. He has forged very
strong, influential relationships with international defence
test and evaluation organisations, generating significant
benefits for the Australian Defence Force.
Conspicuous Service Medal
Warrant Officer Class Two Tyrone Kevin CANTWELL,
ACT
For meritorious achievement as the Telecommunications
Systems Manager, Defence Communications Area Master
Station Australia.
Warrant Officer Cantwell is an outstanding soldier who has
made exceptional achievements as the Manager
Telecommunications Systems. He has provided superior
technical knowledge,
Colonel Shaun Justin LOVE, NSW
For meritorious achievement as a member of the Directing
Staff at the Australian Command and Staff College and as a
mentor of future strategic level leaders.
Colonel Love is a truly exceptional, dedicated officer who has
consistently produced outstanding solutions with minimal
guidance or supervision. He has consistently displayed
professional excellence as a member of the Directing Staff,
and has demonstrated remarkable commitment and
significant influence at the Australian Command and Staff
College. His sustained efforts as a leader have set a
consummate professional example to subordinates, peers and
superiors, and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the
Australian Army and Australian Defence Force.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)
Additionally, the first female RSM of the 1st Recruit Training
Battalion, Kapooka, an RACT RSM was awarded an OAM
for her exceptional service with RASigs units:
Warrant Officer Class One Trudy Marie CASEY, NSW
For meritorious performance of duty as Regimental Sergeant
Major of the 1st Combat Signal Regiment and the inaugural
Force Communications Unit.
Warrant Officer Casey is an exceptional soldier who has
consistently displayed performance of the highest order as a
Regimental Sergeant Major during separate appointments in
Australia and in the Middle East Area of Operations. Her
professionalism, commitment and leadership have been
outstanding and have directly contributed to the success of
the Australian Defence Force on operations.
Congratulations to the award recipients.
THURUNKA, September 2011
7
TOP DEFENCE APPOINTMENTS
The Prime Minister has announced the following changes to
the top Defence appointments:
VCDF LT-GEN David Hurley will take over as CDF on
promotion to General when ACM Angus Houston
retires on 4 July.
FORCOMD MAJGEN David Morrison will take over as CA
on promotion to LTGEN when LTGEN Ken Gillespie
retires on the same date.
Chief of Air Force AM Mark Binskin will take up the
position of VCDF vacated by LTGEN Hurley.
RADM Ray Griggs is to be the new Chief of Navy on
promotion to VADM.
AVM Geoff Brown is to be the new Chief of Air Force on
promotion to Air Marshall.
LTGEN Hurley graduated from RMC in 1975 and was
posted as an Infantry officer to 1 RAR. He was
appointed VCDF in 2008.
MAJGEN Morrison joined the Army in 1979 after
completing a BA at ANU. He graduated from OCS
Portsea as an Infantry officer.
Army Newspaper, June 9, 2011
17th SIGNAL REGIMENT DEPLOYS
PERSONNEL TO EAST TIMOR
Twenty-nine members from the 17th Signal Regiment,
Holsworthy will spend eight months in East Timor as the 5th
rotation of the Force Communications Element, providing
strategic communications for the International Stabilisation
Force.
Family and friends bid them farewell at Holsworthy Barracks
on 13th May.
The rotation has an average age of 26 years and for about half
of the soldiers, it will be their first operational deployment.
Army Newspaper, June 9, 2011
COMMS ENHANCED IN
AFGHANISTAN
Troops of the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) will
have better communications with the opening of the
Signalman Sean McCarthy Communications Centre in
Kandahar. Opened on 7th May, the centre has been named
in honour of the SOTG signalman killed in action on 8th
July, 2008.
The centre was built to enhance communications and
information systems for the Australian Special Forces in
theatre. It has been touted as the most advanced, wellequipped facility of its kind in the Middle East Area of
Operations.
Army Newspaper, June 9, 2011
8TH SIGNAL REGIMENT DEPLOYS
ON EXEX-MERCURY RAGE
Almost 100 soldiers from the 8th Signal Regiment deployed
in freezing conditions at the Majura Training Area in May as
part of Exercise MERCURY RAGE. The reservists came
from depots in Adamstown, Canberra, Dundas, Holsworthy
and Randwick.
The exercise was part of the Regiment’s preparation for
coming exercises including Ex TALISMAN SABRE, as well as
rehearsal exercises for OPERATION ANODE in the
Solomon Islands and OPERATION ASTUTE in East Timor.
Last year a number of the reservists also deployed to
OPERATION SLIPPER in the Middle East.
The signallers controlled DSN and DRN terminals, managed
satellite communications, laid line, conducted radio
reconnaissance and clearing patrols.
The CO 8th Signal Regiment, LTCOL Darrin Glen said the
unit was targeting commercial communication experts for
enlistment and that 2nd Division Signallers are becoming a
significant capability for the Army.
Army Newspaper, June 9, 2011
Websites of Interest
Official governmental RASigs website:
http://www.army.gov.au/rasigs
RASigs Ass’n SA website:
http://www.rasigs.com/
Dave (Buddha) Winch’s RASigs website:
http://home.vicnet.net.au/~rasigsau/index.htm
Denis (Rabbit) Hare’s 104 Sig Sqn website:
http://www.au104.com/
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia:
http://vvaa.org.au/
For a look at some of the comms gear of old:
http://www.remlr.com/
http://www.remlr.com/radios-types.html
http://www.vk2bv.org/museum/
If you are in need of a box to hold your medals: http://www.militarymedalboxes.com/army.html#
From The Communicator, May 2011 RASA (Qld)….ED.
THURUNKA, September 2011
8
RASigs
40th Anniversary
Reunion Vietnam
– 15th to 22nd August
2012
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It
gives me great pleasure to write this letter to all past
and present members of the Royal Australian Corps
of Signals, our family and our friends. 2012 marks the 40th
anniversary of the withdrawal of Australian troops from
South Vietnam and to mark this auspicious occasion we will
be holding a reunion over the period 15th August 2012 to
22nd August 2012.
I am honoured to accept the position of Chairman for the
reunion and look forward to working with the full organizing
committee to deliver an enjoyable and memorable event. For
those of you who participated in the RASIGS Reunion,
Vietnam 2009 I am sure you will join me in recommending
this reunion to others who missed the last one.
With great assistance from Buddha Winch there is a
website where you will be able to view the itinerary, see the
list of attendees and stay up to date with developments as we
lead up to the reunion: http://home.vicnet.net.au/~rasigsau/
avietnam_2012_reunion.html
While the reunion is still 13 months away, there are some
important aspects you should now start to consider.
Accommodation is being arranged for you and is included
in the reunion costs and is being updated shortly as
previously booked hotels cannot accommodate us all.
Travel plans to and from Vietnam are your responsibility
but you must ensure that your bookings coincide with the
reunion dates.
If you are going on one of the Pre/Post tours organized by
our agent Thai in Hanoi, Day 1 of the Post tour will
In The Blue Corner
Blue Hawkins has advised us of the
following. If anyone is able to help
Blue in any way, or you have your
own enquiry, please contact Blue
direct….Ed
Searching for Eddie Ruiz and
Peter Knibb
Searching for Eddie Ruiz (Ruize?) &
Peter Knibb
If YOU have contact details for the
commence on the last day of the reunion i.e. Day 8 of
Reunion will be Day 1 of Post tour.
Pre Tours will finish on Day 1 of the Reunion.
Visas to Vietnam can be obtained by downloading the
form from the Vietnamese Embassy website in Australia and
follow the instructions.
You can get Visa on arrival but you first must apply
through a Vietnamese agent pay the fee and get a stamp letter
back from the agent prior to departing Australia.
You then take your passport and letter to the Visa section
at the Saigon/Hanoi airport and pay the fee with the
application.
I find it easier to get the visa prior to departing Australia
and then you know there will be no hassles.
As we are approaching the 200 pax mark the team has
extended the number of attendees to 240 with plus
allowances for withdrawals.
There are a range of pre and post reunion tours published
on the website and having lived in Vietnam for two years I
can highly recommend that you consider these carefully. The
country offers a wide variety of tourist experiences including
coastal resorts, highland retreats and an extravaganza of
cultural experiences that date back over 1,000 years.
Warm regards,
Jeff
Jeff McLean
Chairman
29 Jul 2011
RASigs Reunion, Vietnam, 15 -22 August 2012, including
LITTLE PATTIE IN CONCERT
Reunion Web site: http://home.vicnet.net.au/~rasigsau/
avietnam_2012_reunion.html
above members, please advise BOTH:
Ted (Blue) Hawkins
RASigs e-mail network and contact
dbase
E-m:hawkins1200907@bigpond.com
AND
David (Paddy) McDiarmid
E-m: mcrhcr@optushome.com.au
Regards
Searching for Ron Morrison
and Peter van Valen
If you have contact details for the
above members, please advise both:
Ted (Blue) Hawkins
AND
David A. Forbes-Beitsch
(previously just Beitsch)
Ph 07 4168 2664
E-m: dafb@hotkey.net.au
Regards
Ph: 07 5499 3704
Mob: 0466 475 080
E-m: hawkins1200907@bigpond.com
Ted (Blue) Hawkins
THURUNKA, September 2011
FYI
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
9
DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and ideas and any views expressed in the articles of THURUNKA are
those of the contributors and are not necessarily those of The Royal Australian Signals Association
(NSW) Inc. or the staff of THURUNKA. Nor are we able to attest to the accuracy of the information
so contained. While contributions are welcome not all of them can be published. Those published
may be edited for length and clarity. Contributions are acknowledged as from our source, unless
otherwise informed. Contributions cannot be returned unless arrangements are made with the
Editor prior to or upon submission of the contribution for publication. We encourage contributions
and thank those who contribute to the pages of THURUNKA.
Conspicuous Service Cross
Conspicuous Service Medal
The Conspicuous Service Cross recognises
outstanding commitment to duty or
outstanding application of exceptional skills,
judgement or dedication, in non-war-like
situations. It is the first level award of the
Conspicuous Service Decorations.
The Australian Conspicuous Service Medal is
awarded for meritorious achievement or
dedication to duty, in non-warlike situations.
It is the second level award of the
Conspicuous Service Decorations.
Post Nominal: CSM
Post Nominal: CSC
About the award
About the award
The Conspicuous Service Medal and the
Conspicuous Service Cross are distinctly
Australian military awards. The medal
recognises commendable achievement or
commitment to duty in a non-combative
context. It is awarded to members of the Australian Defence
Force and certain other people for example, defence force
chaplains.
The Conspicuous Service Cross and the
Conspicuous Service Medal are specifically
Australian military awards.
The cross acknowledges exceptional dedication to duty or
outstanding achievement in skills or judgement in a noncombative context. It is awarded to members of the
Australian Defence Force and certain other people such as
members of philanthropic organisations.
The Conspicuous Service Cross was established on 18 October
1989 by Letter Patent.
How it is awarded
The Governor-General makes the award on the
recommendation of the Minister for Defence.
If the same person receives a further Conspicuous Service
award it is in the form of a nickel-silver bar with a
superimposed replica of the cross. The bar is attached to the
ribbon of the original award. The decoration may be
awarded posthumously.
Medal design
The cross is a nickel-silver modified Maltese Cross. It is
ensigned with the Crown of Saint Edward in nickel-silver,
with the arms of the cross interspersed with fluted rays.
The front displays the Southern Cross surrounded by a laurel
wreath. The back of the cross shows a horizontal panel.
Medal ribbon
The cross is suspended from a 32 millimetre-wide ribbon by a
nickel-silver suspender bar. The ribbon has alternating equalwidth, diagonal stripes of bush green and sandy gold.
The Conspicuous Service Medal was established on 18th
October 1989 by Letters patent.
How it is awarded
The Governor-General makes the award on the
recommendation of the Minister for Defence.
If the same person receives a further conspicuous service
award it is in the form of a nickel-silver bar displaying the
medal emblem. The bar is attached to the ribbon of the
original award. The decoration may be awarded
posthumously. The award is announced on Australia Day
(26th January) and the Queen’s Birthday (June) of each year.
Past recipient story
Warrant Officer Sandra Wilson is one of over 600 recipients
of the Conspicuous Service Medal. She was awarded the
medal in 1999 for exemplary service as Warrant Officer
Operations and Plans at the Joint Movement Control Office
in Darwin. This was during the time of the Australian
Defence Force deployment to East Timor.
Medal design
The Conspicuous Service Medal is a circular nickel-silver
medal 38 millimetres in diameter. It is ensigned with the
Crown of Saint Edward in nickel-silver. The front of the
medal bears the Southern Cross surrounded by a laurel
wreath. The back of the medal has a horizontal panel that is
superimposed on a design of fluted rays.
Medal ribbon
The medal is suspended from a 32 millimetre wide ribbon, by
a nickel-silver suspension bar. The ribbon has alternating
equal-width, diagonal stripes of bush green and sandy gold.
THURUNKA, September 2011
10
Military
history
SCYTALE
We all know that Generals have
batons in their badges of rank and that
Napoleon said that every soldier
should carry a baton in his [her] pack.
But what is the relevance of this?
Well, this is it – you will now be let
into the secret of the baton (or in the
Greek σκυτάλη "baton"). It was a
code encryption device. It is derived
from the scytale that was carried by
commanders, way before Enigma
machines and such.
http://www.mlahanas.de/Greeks/
Communication.htm
Cryptography
(Crypto = hidden,
graphy = writing)
T
he scytale (or skytale),
(pronounced ‘skitaly’ as in
‘Italy’). A scytale was a Spartan method
and tool for encryption, around
400BC. It consisted of a piece of wood
and a leather-strip. Any
communicating party needed exactly
the same size wooden stick. The secret
message was written on the leather-strip
that was wound around the wood,
unwound again and sent to the
recipient by a messenger. The recipient
would rewound the leather and by
doing this enciphering the message.
The dispatch-scroll is of the
following character: When the ephors
send out an admiral or a general, they
make two round pieces of wood exactly
alike in length and thickness, so that
each corresponds to the other in its
dimensions, and keep one themselves,
while they give the other to their envoy.
These pieces of wood they call scytalae.
Whenever, then, they wish to send
some secret and important message,
they make a scroll of parchment long
Dear Ed,
WRAAC 60th Anniversary
I was sent by e-mail from one of our WRAAC - Sig
members your newsletter and also given a hard copy.
Thank you for putting in the article about our
Anniversary, as it states so many of us were in Sigs.
In the annex to the 60th article it states that WRAAC
first appeared at 7th Signal Regiment in 1965; well I can
vouch for being at Eastern Command Sigs at Lidcombe in
late 1954, I believe some were earlier at Mosman. I was a
duty driver for the CO (COL Trick) having passed my Army
Driving test by a Sigs Sgt who took me down Bulli Pass in a
1 ton truck for my test, when I passed I was thrilled having
been a young nervous teenager.
There were 25 WRAAC for the first parade at
Lidcombe with about 250 Nashos as well as ARA staff. I
and narrow, like a leathern strap, and
wind it round their scytale, leaving no
vacant space thereon, but covering its
surface all round with the parchment.
After doing this, they write what they
wish on the parchment, just as it lies
wrapped about the scytale; and when
they have written their message, they
take the parchment off and send it,
without the piece of wood, to the
commander He, when he has received
it, cannot otherwise get any meaning
out of it,-since the letters have no
connection, but are disarranged,--unless
he takes his own scytale and winds the
strip of parchment about it, so that,
when its spiral course is restored
perfectly, and that which follows is
joined to that which precedes, he reads
around the staff, and so discovers the
continuity of the message. And the
parchment, like the staff, is called
scytale, as the thing measured bears the
name of the measure. Plutarch, Lives
(Lysander).
Article by Michael Lahanas
will always remember RSM Moran when we WRAAC girls
marched out on the first parade and he yelled to the
Nashos, “March Out, don’t Oooooze Out".
In April 1956 The Regt went to Gan Gan Army
Camp for the 2 weeks CMF camp, it was great fun; would
anyone remember that? It was such a long time ago. A
couple of us are still around and wonder if any of your
members remember us WRAAC girls from those days?
Regards,
Louise Green
Louise green
30 June 2011
President
WRAAC Assoc (NSW) Inc.
lougreen@bigpond.com.au
THURUNKA, September 2011
11
JOINTING UNDERGROUND CABLE
(The hard Way)
By DX690 Jack (Curly) Bawling
We
were a 90man Signals Section of the Darwin
Infantry Brigade, which arrived in
Darwin in December 1940, in the SS
Zealandia. Prior to the I9th February
1942, our lines of communication were
by Radio telephony (Voice only) to unit
outposts at Adelaide River and
Katherine, until the arrival of Bob
DeStephanus and Tony Marshall, who
joined our unit in 1941. They were
both trained al the Marconi School of
Wireless, and Bob trained us in Morse
code skills, which became mandatory, at
a later date, for radio communication.
The land lines were by PMG
overhead lines to permanent
subscribers, and by Army Don-3 cable
between two sections for temporary
short distance communication. When
necessary, we could retract the cable for
further use. I remember running a line
by stringing it through trees through
barrel insulators between Adelaide
River and Coomalie Creek.
The Army, Navy and Air Force
were also able to use the PMG lines
which were: supplied by underground
armoured cable, which the PMG
maintained
Then came the first raid; all the
civilians and our indigenous friends
and most of the Armed Services were
ordered out of the Darwin Area.
Crisis! Who was going to
maintain and repair the Underground
Armoured Cable?
Alan Player, Bill Cody and myself
were detailed to a position near
Winnellie to meet up with a civilian
cable joiner, who was to teach us,
"PRONTO1', the art of cable jointing.
I cannot remember his name, but
he was a Scott who was at the Darwin
Post Office when it was bombed. He
was a great bloke, but understandably
very nervous. We knew SFA about
cable joining and we had to learn in
two weeks which was normally a lengthy
course. Firstly, there were the inner
groups of copper wire, insulated by
coloured paper wrapping. To
distinguish the pairs you had to learn
the colour-code, like Blue, Orange,
Green, Brown etc. Then came the leadcovering sleeve that fitted over the join.
That had to be cleaned and joined
(what a job). Then came the steel wire
armoured sheath that was around the
cable, and around that, a hemp
wrapping: impregnated with a mixture
of tar and arsenic. Any small puncture
of the: join and the white ants, which,
as you know, are prevalent in the NT,
would get into the cable and eat the
paper insulation around the wires and
short them out.
At this time, we were attached to
a nearby Army unit for rationing, and
were close to the cook-house.
One very cloudy day, we could
hear planes in the distance and our
Scottish friend was the first to hear
them and was on his feet in no time,
but we assured him that they would be
ours, as we hadn't heard the Anti
Aircraft guns, so he settled down and
we could hear the planes getting closer.
As it was getting close to lunch
time the: cook in the nearby cookhouse
decided to light his fire. He decided to
break up a wooden box for kindling.
''Crash" went the back of the axe into
the box and The Scott took off straight
through the scrub. We located him
about an hour later, covered with
scratches and torn clothing from the
Pandanus fronds, which he went
straight through rather than around
It was in 1942 when we had a
new Lieutenant join us. He had done
various schools with the PMG and he
was appalled by our work methods, but
we reckoned that as long as it worked it
was OK.
We were called upon a number
of times to repair underground cable,
cut during bombing raids.
After one raid, a section of cable
had to be replaced. We had started on
the job, when the Lieutenant arrived.
For a short time he watched, but it was
too much for him, "Look men”, he says.
“I’ll show you how to do this properly".
He called for the hacksaw to cut the
armoured cable and started to use it.
He asked for a new blade and we told
him that was the best we had (it wasn’t).
Much to his frustration and a lot of
sweat, he achieved the first hurdle. He
moves on to the joining of the wires,
and as asks for a pair of side-cutlers, we
hand him a pair of pliers, as that was all
we had, more frustration! Now comes
the part we had all been waiting for, the
wiping and joining of the lead sleeve.
He asks for the Styrene, used for wiping
the lead, we handed him a candle in
place of it, which is what we had to use,
and told him it was blessed, as it came
from the Darwin Catholic Cathedral.
We eagerly waited for his next request
which was the Blow Lamp; we told him
we had to fill it with petrol first!
He says, "I don't want Petrol!
Kerosene is what I want”. We told him
that we can not get any Kerosene, but
Petrol is OK as long as you remember
to turn the tap off slowly, so it does not
blow up. But we will move away a bit
in case it does.
From then on, we continued to
do it our way until supplies began to
improve.
Story from the Lines of
Communication Newsletter
Contributed by Arthur Gentle
THURUNKA, September 2011
Book Review
12
during his time in Timor, we learn something of the soul of a
man fervent in his love for Jesus and for his wife Dianne.
He provides an insight into his enthusiasm for
nurturing the men and women who were given into his
pastoral care. Letters from Timor offers a very different
perspective of Australian Military Operations.
Additional Information
Letters from Timor
“I’m sure Timor will tell me forever that I don’t
have much to complain about – life is good, God is
good and my only response can be joy.’’
Chaplain Graeme Ramsden, OAM
Letters from Timor
Graeme Ramsden
Release Date: August 2011
RRP: AU$29.99
Category: Non Fiction/ Inspiration/ Military/ Australian/
Religion
Paperback 196pp
ISBN: 978-1-9219410-0-9
Letters from Timor
Graeme Ramsden, OAM
Chaplain Graeme Ramsden – Royal Electrical and
Mechanical Engineer, veteran of the Vietnam War and
Military Chaplain in the Australian Defence Force – his life
and career has encompassed a vast depth and breadth of
experiences both military and pastoral.
Graeme’s deployment to East Timor in 1999 to
support the Joint Support Unit with the international force
in East Timor (INTERFET) proved that operational
deployment was a distinctive journey for each and every
person that served with him.
Graeme reveals with humour, passion and clarity, a
very engaging account of what it means to serve God, soldiers
and the civilian population during a military action. Through
his letters home diary extracts and homilies he preached
Deployed with International Force in East Timor
(INTERFET) in September 1999. During the deployment, he
was appointed Deputy Senior Chaplain for the mission.
This book is developed from the letters he wrote
home from Timor to his wife Dianne. On his return to
Australia he read over the letters as part of letting go, and felt
others would benefit from seeing his words.
When Graeme was ordained his bishop claimed that
he was one of the first married deacon chaplains in any army
in the world. (1992)
As a married deacon in the Catholic Church he is
unable to say Mass or hear confession, he can preach the
gospel, hold communion services, conduct baptisms,
weddings, funerals and do his chaplaincy work.
Undertook two tours of South Vietnam with 17th
Construction Squadron Workshops as Captain and reached
the rank of major in 1984.
His first job was as a milkman working with his Uncle.
Began his military career in 1965 to current; 47 years service.
About the Author
Chaplain Graeme Ramsden was born in Kingaroy,
Queensland he began his military career in 1965, he served in
Vietnam as a soldier with the Royal Australian Electrical and
Mechanical Engineer Corps in 1968-69. In 1976, he was
commissioned and served as a quartermaster, officer
commanding a workshop and, as an instructor at the Land
Warfare Centre.
In 1990, Graeme undertook theological studies and
was ordained as a deacon of the Roman Catholic Church
and developed a wide pastoral experience with the church. In
1993, Graeme Ramsden commenced duties as a chaplain in
the Australian Regular Army. Graeme is married to Dianne
and father of four.
Publicity Contact
Sharon Evans,
Big Sky Publishing
Ph:02 9918 2168
Mob:0410 332 789
E-m :sharon@bigskypublishing.com.au
Available at all good bookstores nationally or online at
www.bigskypublishing.com.au
THURUNKA, September 2011
13
Letters, e-mails and faxes
Scholarships for Children of
Veterans
- intending Tertiary Studies in 2012
Closing on 31st October 2011 for Scholarships & Grants
being offered in 2012
Dear Ed,
We ask for your assistance with the distribution of this
electronic copy of our AVCAT flyer to promote Scholarships
and Grants in Tertiary Studies in 2012.
Our web address is: http://www.avcat.org.au/
Our e-mail address is: avcat@dva.gov.au
Yours sincerely,
AVCAT Scholarship Officer
Australian Veterans’ Children Assistance Trust
Australian Veterans’ Children Assistance Trust Limited
ACN 008 609 032
ABN 50 008 609 032
2012 Scholarships, Bursaries &
Grants
OPEN 18 August 2011 - CLOSE 31 October 2011
The Australian Veterans’ Children Assistance Trust
(AVCAT) gives financial assistance to help selected children
& grandchildren of the Australian Ex-Service Community
with the costs of tertiary education. Selection is of the most
deserving candidates of merit, who, without our help, would
be unable to start or complete studies without financial
difficulty. Applicants are considered for all schemes for which
they are eligible.
Long Tan Bursary:
The largest scheme is the Long Tan Bursary funded by the
Australian Government. Each year there are 50 new
bursaries valued at $9,000 each, which is paid at $3,000 per
year for three years. To be eligible you must be: the child of
an Australian Vietnam Veteran, be resident in Australia, be
enrolled or planning to enrol in any year of tertiary study
having not previously received a Long Tan Bursary.
Other Scholarships:
The other national schemes are the AVCAT Bursary, the
RSL Scholarship, Vietnam Veterans’ Peacekeepers and
Peacemakers Scholarship, Legacy Australia Scholarship and
the George Quinsey Scholarship - which directly pays tuition
fees for economics, commerce and accountancy studies.
There are also regional scholarships. In NSW, there is the
Brisbane Water Legacy Scholarship covering Gosford/Wyong
NSW and the NSW TPI Association Scholarship. In SA, the
VVAA also offers a Scholarship. There are also some private
donors offering scholarships to NSW resident applicants.
Schemes vary between $3,000 and $5,000 per year each.
Some are restricted to location of residence or studies. Most
require operational service in Vietnam but others are broader
in eligibility criteria. In addition to the above there is one
grant per year to assist a handicapped eligible veteran’s child
or grandchild with special extra costs of transition to tertiary
studies or employment.
To apply you must be:
a. Within the means test, i.e. eligible on assets and income
grounds for the Youth Allowance benefit for full time
education.
b. Enrolled, or planning to enrol in a full-time course of
tertiary education in Australia by attendance at a university,
TAFE or college. The course must be of one or more
academic years in length and should be at undergraduate
level (some exceptions).
c. The child or grandchild of a person who has operational
service with the Australian Navy, Army or Air Force, or three
or more year’s continuous full-time service as a member of
the Australian Defence Force.
d. Under the age of 25 when applying, unless exceptional
circumstances related to veteran’s service exist.
One application form covers all the scholarships
To receive an application form, register your interest on 1800
620 361,
OR by e-mail: avcat@dva.gov.au.
OR download from our website at: www.avcat.org.au
Applications close on 31 October 2011
AVCAT
PO Box K978
Haymarket NSW 1240
Ph: 02 9213 7999
Fax: 02 9213 7307
E-m: avcat@dva.gov.au
Web: http://www.avcat.org.au/
THURUNKA, September 2011
14
Tail-end Charlie
Jack Jewry Reserve
As
we all know, the 18th August 1966 was the date of
the battle of Long Tan, South Viet Nam. The
other week saw its 45th anniversary.
I visited the Jack Jewry Reserve, situated south of the
railway line, between the railway station and the high school
in St Marys in the western districts of Sydney. It was peaceful
in the quiet streets of its locality; only the occasional vehicle
or student passing by. A chap on a corner house was sitting
in his front yard, enjoying a cup of coffee, while reading the
paper and listening to the radio. He paused and nodded to
me while he lit a cigarette as I passed by. There was no noise;
the radio could barely be heard above the silence of the park.
The birds just flew around; even they were silent in their
scramble from my approach.
What is the connection between the Jack Jewry Reserve
and Long Tan? Jack Jewry was one of the 18 Australian
soldiers to die in the battle. The battle that is said to have
‘blooded’ the Australian soldiers South Viet Nam.
And who was Jack Jewry? In his
civilian life Jack was born in St Marys;
he was an apprenticed electrician and
married. He was a National Service
man aged 21 and L/Cpl in D Coy,
6RAR.
Long Tan lapel badge
Jack was Killed In Action of gunshot wounds and is
buried at Pine Grove Memorial Park, NSW.
But what of the other 17 fallen soldiers? Below is a list
of all 18 Australian Soldiers who gave their lives In the Battle
of Long Tan:
The fallen of Long Tan (1)
Pte Richard Albert Aldersea,
6RAR; Age: 20; (RA);
Cpl Peter Edward Clements,
1 APC Sqn; Age 21; (RA);
Pte Glenn Alfred Drabble,
6RAR; Age: 21; (NS);
Pte Kenneth Howard Gant,
6RAR; Age: 21; (NS);
Pte Ernest Francis Grant,
6RAR; Age: 20; (RA);
Pte Victor Roy Grice,
6RAR; Age: 21; (NS);
Pte James Michael Houston,
6RAR; Age: 22; (RA);
L/Cpl Jack Jewry,
6RAR; Age: 21; (NS);
Pte Paul Andrew Large,
6RAR; Age: 22; (NS);
Pte Alfred Frederick McCormack, 6RAR; Age: 21; (NS);
Pte Dennis James McCormack,
6RAR; Age: 21; (NS);
Pte Warren David Mitchell,
6RAR; Age: 21; (NS);
Pte Douglas Jarving Salverton,
6RAR; Age: 20; (NS);
2Lt Gordon Cameron Sharp,
6RAR; Age: 21; (NS);
Pte David John Thomas,
6RAR; Age: 21; (RA);
Pte Francis Brett Topp,
6RAR; Age: 19; (RA);
Pte Maxwell Ray Wales,
6RAR; Age: 22; (RA);
Pte Colin Joseph Whiston,
6RAR; Age: 21; (NS).
(RA) = Regular Army enlistee; (NS) = National Serviceman
(1)
Refer: www.6rarassociation.com/fallenlongtan.htm and
Appendix 1 of The Australian Roll of Honour for the Vietnam
War 1962 – 1975, Vietnam The Australian War by Paul Ham
The Jack Jewry Reserve is a Garden of Remembrance and is
dedicated to those who served and those who gave their lives
in the service of their country during the Vietnam War.
Lest We Forget
Ken Forway
ROYAL AUSTRALIAN SIGNALS ASSOCIATION (NSW) INC
Annex 1 to
FINANCIAL STATEMENT FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2011
THURUNKA
INCOME
Members Subscriptions
Sale of merchandise
Interest Received
Sundry Income-Donations
Contra - Line of Comms
Total Income
2010 $
1890
370
1
9
0
2270
2011 $
1700
196
600
121
10
2627
EXPENDITURE
Bank Fees
Newsletter Expenses
Admin & Allowances
Committee Expenses
Grants & Donations
Wreaths & Presentations
Depreciation & Write-Off
Merchandise
T. D. Interest re-invested
Banners & Equipment
Contra-L of C
Total Expenditure
2010 $
0
627
746
444
275
217
381
588
0
2629
0
5907
2011 $
84
825
675
503
275
301
601
0
600
200
10
4074
Net SurpIus/(Loss)
(3637)
(1447)
Allan Johnston
Honorary Treasurer
15 August 2011
MEMBERS FUNDS
Represented bv:
St George Bank. CB Bal. 30/6/11
Term Deposit St George Bank
Association Equipment
Merchandise O/H @ cost
Total Members' Funds
September 2011'
$ 2286
$ 8600
$ 2666
$ 504
$14,056 (2010=$14,259)
AUDITORS REPORT.
To the members of the Royal Australian Signals Association (NSW) Inc.
I have examined the financial records of the Association kept by and
presented to me by the Honorary Treasurer and have conducted tests
and reconciliations of these records and accounts.
I have obtained the information and explanations requested from these
accounts and records in order to express anopinion on them to the
members of the Association.
I am informed that the Association is a Non-Profit organisation and is
exempt from Income Taxation liability whilst it conducts and promotes
its affairs within the applicable regulations of the Income Taxation Act.
I am satisfied that the accounts appear to record and explain the
transactions and financial position of the Association for the year
ending 30th June, 2011.
Robert J Eaglesham
Hon. Auditor
20th August 2011
17th Australian Lines of Communication Re-Union Fund
Financial Statement for Year Ending 30 June 2011
INCOME:
Members Fees
Donations received
EXPENDITURE:
Donations*
Newsletter, Post & Stationery
Battle for Aust Subs.
Storage Box
Bank Fees
$330.00 $330.00
$43.85 $43.85
$300.00
$169.90
$25.00
$20.00
$2.50
$517.40
$373.85
OPERATING DEFICIT for the Year:
BANK RECONCILIATION @ 30 JUNE 2011:
Balance as per statement 5th May 2011
ADD: O/S Deposit (Fees - Dawson AG)
Balance @ Bank:
Members Fees Paid in advance for 2012-2013:
Bourke WT
$10.00
Newman GR
$10.00
Allen N
$10.00
Searle L
$10.00
Hellman J
$10.00
Cathro M
$10.00
-$143.55
BALANCE SHEET @ 30 JUNE 2011:
$3,086.92
$10.00
$3,096.92
Balance b/f
JULY 2010
LESS:
Deficit 2011
Balance as per cash book:
* Donations Extracted:
Northern Dist Railway
Fred Hollows Foundtn
NSW Legacy
$60.00
$3,240.47
-$143.55
$3,096.92
$100.00
$100.00
$100.00
$300.00
Royal Australian Signals Association (NSW) Inc.
NOTIFICATION OF 2011 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Annex 2 to
THURUNKA
September 2011
Members are hereby notified that the Association’s Annual General Meeting will be held at 1230 hrs, Sunday 13th November 2011
at the Paddington RSL Club, Oxford Street, Paddington (opposite Victoria Barracks).
If anyone be considering nominating for the committee, please contact either the President or Secretary for a brief on duties.
Written nomination for the below listed positions are to be received by the Secretary no later than cob Friday 28th October 2011.
AGENDA
1. Apologies
2. Confirmation of previous AGM minutes
3. Matters arising from previous minutes
4. Correspondence relating to the AGM
5. President’s Annual Report
6. Presentation of Annual Financial Statement and Auditor’s Report
7. Appointment of Interim Chairman
8. Election of office bearers
• President
• Vice-President
• Secretary/Public Officer
• Treasurer
• Membership Officer
• Editor THURUNKA
• Publisher THURUNKA
• Committee members
9. Appointment of Honorary Auditor
10. Annual membership fees for 2011/12
11. General Business.
Michael McEvoy
Secretary
RASigs Ass’n (NSW) Inc.
__ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
NOMINATION FORM 2011/2012 - RASigs Association (NSW) Inc.
I wish to propose financial member ……………………….…………………...for the position of……………………………………
Signature of Proposer………………………………………………………………………….
Signature of Seconder…………………………………………………………………………
I agree to the nomination………………………………………………………………………
(Signature of Nominee)
Post to Secretary, RASA (NSW) Inc 13 Mitchell Road MOSMAN NSW 2088