Defence News
Navy News
Army News
Airforce News
Descendants of The Rats of Tobruk is a great page to research, view or purchase some memorabilia of the legends known as the “Desert Rats”, have a look and learn how they got the name (Lest we Forget).
Join APOD - Australia’s Largest Australian Defence Force and Veteran Community Program
Jarrah Medal Boxes available from Oz Wood
Select link below to view the full range
Fresh Ammo (April 2024) - written by Robert Campbell
This months edition we celebrate and reflect on our mates, our newly launched Sport and Rec program and the legends of ANZAC.
Vito Cecere celebrates 100 years
Vito Cecere celebrated his 100th birthday on April 1st 2024. Vito has been an active member of the sub branch well into his 90s.
Robert Ridge, Sub Brach President, David Clarke, Honorary Secretary and Paul Celler, Welfare Officer were invited to Vito's birthday party held at Club Five Dock RSL.
Vito's family had letters of congratulations from HRH King Charles, Governor General of Australia His Excellency David Hurley, Prime Minister of Australis The Honorable Anthony Albanese framed and on display during the luncheon.
Sport and Recreation Program
This month we launched the Five Dock RSL Sub-Branch Sport and Recreation Program with Strength and Conditioning classes at Pinnacle Spine and Sport, Concord West.
The program is open to Veterans and their families to help maintain both physical and mental well being. It was great to see Catherine, Wendy, Peter and Rob all taking part in the program in the opening session. A big thank you to Ian and Pinnacle Spine and Sport for hosting these classes for the Sub-Branch, greatly appreciated. The classes are limited to 8 so get in quick if you want to join in.
Keep an eye out the RSL NSW website for upcoming events - https://rslnsw.org.au/get-involved/rsl-nsw-sport-and-recreation-program/
I look forward to seeing more of you at the upcoming events which are planned to grow over the coming months. Look out for the upcoming Kokoda Track Memorial Walk and Coffee catchups coming in May.
Fresh Ammo (July 2023) - Written by Robert Campbell
This months edition of Fresh Ammo looks at the great work the team and RSL are doing around looking after our members and veterans.
We do it to Keep their memories alive
In the lead-up to Anzac Day, Bon Vivant Magazine spoke with our president Robert Ridge about his military service and the vital roles both the Club and the local RSL chapter play in the community today. Read the full article We Will Remember Them - Bon Vivant Magazine (bon-vivant.com.au)
Vietnam Veterans Day
Cenotaph, Martin Place on Friday 18 August, 11am
More Information
Vietnam Veterans’ Day was originally known as Long Tan Day, chosen to commemorate the men of D Company, 6RAR who fought in the battle of Long Tan on August 18 1966. Now 57 years later we pause on 18 August to reflect on the bravery, teamwork and endurance that Australians displayed throughout the war. It’s a day when we recognise all who served in Vietnam. In 2023, join RSL NSW as we commemorate 50 years since the withdrawal of Australian servicemen and women in Vietnam.
Victory in the Pacific Day Commemoration
Cenotaph, Martin Place on Friday 15 August, 11am
More Information
On the morning of 15th August 1945, the Emperor of Japan announced that Japan would accept the Allies ultimatum to surrender. For Australians, this meant the end of the Second World War. A war that had seen nearly 1 million Australians serve in the armed forces. Of those, over 30,000 Australians were taken prisoner and 39,000 did not return to their loved ones. A legacy which is still felt today. 78 years later, on 15 August 2023 we encourage you to remember and respect all those Australians that served during the Second World War; those who gave the ultimate sacrifice; those who returned and were forever scarred; and those who cared for our veterans.
JOKE OF THE MONTH
Camouflage Training
The Sergeant Major growled at the young soldier: "Why weren't you at camouflage training this morning?"
"I was there, sir," answered the soldier.
"I didn't see you," returned the Sergeant Major.
"Thank you very much, sir," replied the soldier.
Fresh Ammo (March 2023) - Written by Robert Campbell
This months edition of Fresh Ammo looks at the upcoming ANZAC Day events and reflects on the recent events.
Annual General Meeting
Our Annual General Meeting was held last month on the 08 March. This was the first time members have pledged allegiance to the King.
I, [name of member] do hereby swear Allegiance to His Sovereign Majesty King Charles III, His Heirs and Successors, and the Commonwealth of Australia, and do hereby subscribe to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Australia, the Constitution of the Returned and Services League of Australia.
“God Save The King”.
Executive positions where all made vacant for nominations and in addition to the Executive a new committee has been formed.
All positions where filled and we congradulate those who have again given their time and energy to the Sub Branch.
Peter Howard has been a long standing member of the RSL and we were pleased to honour him with a 50 Years Service Certificate.
Peter is on the Executive Commitee and is a Trustee of the Sub Branch, we are lucky to have his experience and mateship on the team.
Fresh Ammo (January 2023) - Written by Robert Campbell
After a Xmas break and the introduction to the new year, there is not alot to report this month.
The Sub Branch is looking forward to welcoming new members and existing members back to enjoy the comraderie that the Five Dock RSL Sub Branch offers.
Australia Day celebrations saw a wonderful day put on to celebrate where we have come together a nation.
Joke of the Month
Fresh Ammo (October 2022) - Written by Robert Campbell
The October edition of Fresh Ammo farewells a Queen and introduces some great models into the fold thanks to Tony Harman.
Farewell Queen Elizabeth II
Throughout her extraordinary reign, Queen Elizabeth II’s life was one of service to her people.
The Queen was laid to rest at a state funeral in London this month. After the lying in state ended at Westminster Hall, her coffin was taken to Westminster Abbey for a service. It was then taken on a procession full of pageantry through London to Wellington Arch. After travelling by hearse to Windsor Castle, the Queen was farewelled publicly at a committal service at St George's Chapel before being buried in a private family service.
Than you for your service - Lest we forget.
Queen Elizabeth projected onto the Opera House (photo - Rob Campbell)
MORE THAN JUST A MODEL KIWI
It has been great to hear the many stories of Tony Harman’s model building exploits over the years. The chances of getting some of them into the Sub Branch are unlikely noting the size and detail in each of his works.
Tony has built a number of detail models including the BUSMARK, a Spitfire and a German Tank (Still under construction)
See photos of his works below:
ADF bringing 7.62mm back into service
Between now and the mid-2020s, NIOA will use a range of sub-contractors to supply new sniper rifles, pistols, shotguns, personal defence weapons, fighting knives and an assault-breaching system to the ADF, with many of the new weapons to be on display at the Land Forces expo in Brisbane from 4 to 6 October 2022.
FUNNY OF THE MONTH
1. What do you call a military officer who goes to the bathroom a lot? A LOOtenant!
2. Oh, you’re a troop who survived pepper spray AND mustard gas? Well, I, too, am a SEASONED Veteran!
3. Why does the military have a strict dress code for ceremonies and events? Civilian CASUAL TEES are not acceptable.
4. Why do optometrists set their clocks to military time? They want their patients to see 20:20!
5. Why did the Soldier bring a blanket to an active battle zone? He needed COVER!
6. Why aren’t there any insects in an Army base? It’s a NO FLY zone!
Fresh Ammo (September 2022) - Written by Robert Campbell
The September edition of Fresh Ammo looks back on some great events in the area and reflects on some recent events.
Bernard (Bernie) Paul Folkes - 15/01/1948 - 15/07/2022 (RIP)
A tragic loss of on of our long term members and legends of the Sub Branch, Bernie Folkes. Bernie was a dedicated member of Five Dock RSL sub Branch and held the position of Treasurer and Trustee.
Bernie started his army days in July 1968, when he was called up for National Service to spend two years full time service in the Australian Army. During those two years he served in Vietnam in an Infantry Battalion, 7 RAR, Royal Australian Regiment. Bernie eventually joined the RSL and was a keen member of Five Dock RSL Sub-Branch, where he served as Treasurer and as a Trustee.
Bernie’s civilian career was working with computers, starting in the Commonwealth Bank and then with an American company, EDS, who purchased the computer business of CBA.
He always kept himself fit and ran 3 marathons, broke 3 hours, then switched to Triathlon’s completing 20-30 of these with his ultimate goal to compete in the Hawaiian Ironman. Unfortunately he was hit by a car and retook up golf with his two sons.
A special shout out to Paul Celler who spent the last seven months by Bernies side encouraging him to keep up the good fight. Paul unselfishly dedicated his time and compassion to Bernie and was there with Bernie’s family when he passed on! A phenomenal effort and example of the tradition of RSL members caring for each other.
Bernie passed away on the 15 July surrounded by his family and will be surely missed by all. Bernies funeral was held on the 22 July at Rookwood Memorial Gardens, it was a well attended and moving service where his life was celebrated.
Lest we Forget.
Fathers Day
A big shout out to all the Father’s who recently celebrated Father’s Day on the 4th September.
Ferragosto
Sydney's most loved Italian street festival, Ferragosto was held on Sunday, 21 August along Great North Road. 25 years since its inception, this year attracted a bumper crowd of close to 110,000 visitors to Five Dock, refelcting the strong Italian links we have in the area.
Ferragosto crowds down Great Northern Rd.
Together we stand: Zita Vafiopulous and David Clarke
David Clarke is Honorary Secretary of Five Dock RSL sub-Branch and President of the Western Metropolitan District Council.
When the NCVH started up, we made it known that the members of Five Dock RSL sub-Branch wanted to be of assistance. Before they had an RSL NSW Liaison Officer, the case officers at NCVH would ring me and ask, ‘Can you help over the weekend?’ During the week they have fairly stringent programs, but veterans can sometimes sit twiddling their thumbs on Saturday and Sunday.
We started by taking a few of them out to breakfast with a few of our members. Often it was a yum cha lunch. We try to pick a mix of Navy, Army and Air Force, young, old and middle-aged, to give variety to the conversation. We do what we can.
Now there is a volunteer RSL NSW Liaison Officer in Bronte Pollard. NCVH contacts Bronte, and Bronte rings me to organise something. And it’s not always us – Bronte uses other organisations as well to open up a wider spectrum of assistance. RSL NSW is preparing to make that a funded position, which I think is a good move.
When Zita and Wayne Vafiopulous arrived for a stay at the National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare (NCVH), they were blown away by the generosity shown by Five Dock RSL sub-Branch Secretary David Clarke.
RSL NSW donates 3.1 million to RSL LifeCare Veteran Services
At a glance:
RSL NSW has presented RSL LifeCare Veteran Services with a $3.1 million donation
88 RSL NSW sub-Branches contributed to this donation
This $3.1 million donation will support the delivery of veteran health, DVA claim support and advocacy, housing, employment, financial, wellbeing, and disaster support.
A generous boost to the total came from three RSL sub-Branches that were able to donate in excess of $100,000 each – Maroubra RSL sub-Branch, Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL sub-Branch, Doyalson-Wyee RSL sub-Branch, City of Bankstown RSL sub-Branch, and Five Dock sub-Branch.
Funny
A Navy ship hailed a civilian at sea...
**Navy**: We ask that you divert your course 15 degrees north, to avoid collision.
**Civilian**: Negative. Recommend that *you* divert 15 degrees north, to avoid collision.
**Navy**: This is the Captain of a U.S. Navy ship. I say again, divert your course.
**Civilian**: Negative. I say again, recommend you change course.
**Navy**: This is the aircraft carrier *Enterprise*! We are a large warship of the U.S. Navy! Divert your course *immediately*!
**Civilian**: This is a lighthouse. Your call.
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Fresh Ammo (March 2022) - Written by Robert Campbell
This March edition of Fresh Ammo covers some upcoming events, recent commemorations, and is well over due.
Also, we’d like to hear from you via Facebook or email, message or write to us.
Reminder: Next month is the AGM, all members are encouraged to attend.
This Months Meeting
Was great to finally get back to face to face meeting this month and see some familiar faces. The camaraderie and dedication to honouring and protecting local memorials, supporting our veteran community and ensuring the welfare of our members is always at front of heart is a testament to the tireless work our members do in support of the Five Dock RSL Sub Branch.
Order of Australia medal (OAM) - Ms Alice Guay KANG
Congratulations to Ms Alice Guay KANG for receiving the Order of Australia medal (OAM) for service to veterans, and to community health. Her strong connection with the Veteran community over the decades, and her work as Director of the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway has given her unique expertise in memorials and commemorative events. Alice retired from Concord Hospital in 2020, however she is still playing an active role at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway as its Director where she drives the vision for the Memorial and oversees the memorial's day to day operation and educational activities.
RSL NSW Updates
ANZAC Day 2022
All ANZAC Day commemorations across NSW can proceed as normal this year. There is no requirement for QR code check in, and the wearing of masks is only encouraged for indoor settings where you cannot maintain a safe distance from others.
Information regarding the Sydney CBD March can be found on our website here.
Information regarding the Sydney Dawn Service can be found here.
Membership Status
I refer to Circular 42/21 and Circular 48/21 regarding fee-free memberships and the associated processes for maintaining member records in the sub-Branch Portal. ANZAC House advised that member records would automatically default to ‘Inactive’ (formerly known as ‘Unfinancial’) on 1 January 2022.
Please note that only the name of the member status has been changed. ‘Financial’ or ‘Unfinancial’ has been changed to ‘Active’ or ‘Inactive’.
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Fresh Ammo (July 2021) - Written by Geoff Orme
This July edition of Fresh Ammo covers some upcoming events, recent commemorations, and some early information about ANZAC Day.
Also, we’d like to hear from you via Facebook or email, message or write to us.
A note from The President Robert Ridge
Unfortunately, both the July meeting and luncheon scheduled for the following week are cancelled. Hopefully we can reschedule the luncheon once the current lockdown is over and we are getting back to normal. Please spread the word to non-email members.
Commemorations
There has been a number of significant commemorations recently. As we follow health and Government directions, most are in a hiatus. Some wonderful photographs are posted on our website for you to peruse.
Rats of Tobruk Commemoration by the Sub-Branch, Five Dock, Sunday 11 April
This event was held at the memorial located in Five Dock. It was well-attended by our President, members, and special guests. This included Mr Lee Denman, an original ‘Rat of Tobruk and family. Our own Rob Campbell also attended to honour those who served, including his grandfather, who was also a ‘Rat of Tobruk’.
Anzac Day Commemoration by the Sub-Branch, Five Dock Park, Sunday 18 April
RSL sub-branches host commemorative services are held across the state to honour all who have served. Our service, on Sunday 18th April 11am at the memorial was very well attended by dignitaries, VIPs, special guests, members and their families, along with members of our community and the public at large. Due to COVID-19 there no march this year. The NSW Police Band played, which again great. Check out the photographs!
Anzac Day Dawn Service, The Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Park, Concord, Sunday 25 April
The 25th of April was officially named Anzac Day in 1916 to mark the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. With the coming of the Second World War, Anzac Day also served to commemorate the lives of Australians who died in that war. The meaning of Anzac Day today includes the remembrance of all Australians killed in military operations.
A long-term resident and Five Dock RSL member, Mr Bob Turner, arranged this year’s Dawn Service at The Pavilion, Concord. This service, supported by the Mayor of Canada Bay Council, replaces previous Dawn Services conducted over many years at Concord West Community RSL Club. Our members will know that Bob Turner and his team were the mainstay of these services over many, many years. Well done Bob!
Our RSL Club Sub Branch Director Mr Peter Howard laid a wreath, and Mr (LTCOL) Geoff Orme delivered the Commemorative Address. It was Geoff’s final duty in uniform prior to leaving the ADF.
Vale
In recent times we had seen the sad passing of members and those with notable links to the Five Dock RSL Sub Branch. These include Mr Lee Denman and Mr Lloyd Birdsall.
RSL NSW Updates
Many members will have received updates from RSL NSW concerning a number of important matters. Some of these include:
Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide - The Royal Commission will inquire into systemic issues and common themes related to Defence and veteran death by suicide, including the possible contribution of pre-service, service, transition, separation and post-service issues, and other matters believed by the Royal Commission to be relevant to its inquiry.
DVA expansion of face-to-face services - Veterans and their families can now access face-to-face DVA services at 318 Services Australia service centres across Australia. You can find your closest centre by following this link: https://www.dva.gov.au/
RSL DefenceCare – RSL NSW’s partner charity RSL DefenceCare provides free, specialist assistance with submitting claims to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs or appealing rejected claims.
RSL DefenceCare claims and advocacy specialists can help veterans to achieve the best possible result with their DVA claim including advocating on their behalf at the Veterans’ Review Board. Services include:
printing and lodgment of DVA forms and supporting documents
fielding general enquiries
connection with DVA subject matter experts and support services such as Open Arms; and
support to access online services.
Telephone 02 8088 0388 for further information.
New Minister appointed to Veterans' Affairs portfolio - Mr Andrew Gee MP has been appointed as the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel. Mr Gee, a former barrister, is the Member for Calare (Central West NSW) and has been Australia’s Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education, and Minister Assisting Trade and Investment since February 2020.
Equine program for veteran well-being - Designed by veterans for veterans, our partner charity RSL LifeCare’s Spur Program at Picton (south-west of Sydney) has been developed with well-being and recovery as core elements to helping participants enjoy and challenge themselves.
Offered free of charge, the Spur Program is designed to promote mindfulness and well-being, helping wounded, injured and ill veterans with their recovery. Participants are introduced to various aspects of horse handling, educating them on how to care for the horse, and providing a safe space for them to focus and heal. Also on offer are a Two-day Horse Handler Course and a Horse Trekking Program.
Contact RSL NSW for more details or click on the link: https://rsllifecare.org.au/veteran-services/spur/horse-trekking-program/
Veterans and their partners in NSW receive employment boost - Read more about the Veterans Skills Program, the NSW Veterans Employment Program, and the RSL Employment Program at the RSL NSW website or the link: https://rslemployment.com.au/
Member Profiles
As part of getting to know our members, we’ve invited a few to submit some details about themselves. We successfully uploaded Mike Perrott’s profile so we’re looking forward to showcasing some more members. Let’s hope we can bring you a little of their stories in the coming year.
Funny
The safety brief….! 😊
Get in touch
We look forward to hearing from you by whatever means works for you. Letter, telephone, email or Facebook are all most welcome. We’ll seek to keep you updated but don’t forget to let us know about any items which are important to you, our members. Use the ‘Contact Us’ tab on our website as it’s regularly monitored.
Fresh Ammo (March 2021) - Written by Geoff Orme
This March edition of Fresh Ammo covers some upcoming events, recent commemorations, and some early information about ANZAC Day.
Also, we’d like to hear from you via Facebook or email, message or write to us.
Commemorative Luncheon – Friday 4 December 2020
A commemorative luncheon was held at the Five Dock RSL Club for all sub-branch members and their partners on Friday 4 December. It was a time of fellowship and great company, following the easing of some COVID 19 restrictions. A delicious three-course luncheon was enjoyed by all. These events are very enjoyable, well attended, and a lot of fun. We hope to see you at the next luncheon.
Message from the Presidet, Mr Robert Ridge
Don’t forget that our March meeting and AGM has been moved back until next week (Wednesday) to allow for the financials to be ready. See you at the club at 7pm. Please contact the club reception for an Uber if required.
Up coming events.
RATS of Tobruk Service Sunday 11th April 11am at the memorial located cnr Great North and Lyons Rd. This year is the 80th anniversary of the siege.
Our service, Sunday 18th April 11am at the memorial. Due to COVID-19 no march this year. NSW Police Band will be playing for us, which again great. I will give all more details at our meeting next week.
On a sad note, Bevlee’s mother passed away last week. I found out today from club management.
Commemorations
Anzac Day (25 April)
The 25th of April was officially named Anzac Day in 1916 to mark the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. With the coming of the Second World War, Anzac Day also served to commemorate the lives of Australians who died in that war. The meaning of Anzac Day today includes the remembrance of all Australians killed in military operations.
RSL sub-branches host commemorative services are held across the state to honour all who have served. Our service, Sunday 18th April 11am at the memorial. Due to COVID-19 no march this year. NSW Police Band will be playing for us, which again great. I will give all more details at our meeting next week.
Indigenous Veterans Ceremony (May)
As part of National Reconciliation Week, a ceremony is held in each capital city to commemorate the service and sacrifice of Indigenous veterans. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have fought for Australia in every major conflict since the Boer War.
Boer War Day (31 May)
The Boer War Day commemorates the first war in which Australia fought as a nation. In 1899 NSW troops were the first to join in this war followed by all of the other colonies and after Federation in 1901 Australian units took part. The Boer War was also the first war in which Australians fought alongside New Zealanders. 31 May is the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Vereeniging that ended the South African War in 1902. Boer War Day itself is held on the Sunday before 31 May to enable working people to attend.
Funny
We’re gin’ in lads…..! J
Fresh Ammo (December 2020) - Written by Geoff Orme
This December edition of Fresh Ammo covers some upcoming events, commemorations, and introduces our ‘Member Profile’. This latter initiative aims profile one of our members each month and enables us to get to know them a little better.
Also, we’d like to hear from you via Facebook or email secretary@fivedockrsl.org.au message or write to us.
Commemorative Luncheon - Friday 4th December
A commemorative luncheon will be held at the Five Dock RSL Club for all sub-branch members and their partners at midday on Friday 4 December. We hope you can join us for fellowship and great company. A delicious three-course luncheon will be provided. Hopefully you’ve let us know in advance. If not, please contact us asap!
These events are very enjoyable, well attended, and a lot of fun. We hope to see you there.
Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force (IGADF) Afghanistan Inquiry
RSL NSW has published an open letter from DVA to the ADF and Veteran community. It notes, among other things, that the release of the findings released by the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force (IGADF) Afghanistan Inquiry may cause concern or anxiety to those serving, to our veterans or their families.
The Department of Veterans Affairs message is, ‘we are here to help’. Also, ‘to anyone who is serving, has served, or who is close to a serving or ex-serving member, please remember:
You should be immensely proud of your service, or your loved one’s service, and there is overwhelming respect from the broader Australian community for your service and sacrifice.
If you need help dealing with the findings, reach out and get the specialist support you need. Support is readily available through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and is routinely used by thousands of serving personnel and veterans every year.
Families, particularly children and teenagers could also be affected by the impact of the Inquiry and there is support available for them as well.’
As members, our Five Dock sub-Branch is open and ready to support you. You and your families can also contact Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling Service (part of DVA) 24/7, on 1800 011 046, and https://www.openarms.gov.au/ .
ADF and Defence Values - Message from CDF and Secretary Dept of Defence
On 1 October 2020, the CDF and Department Secretary promulgated a unifying set of values which, ‘are at the forefront of all that we do as One Defence. These Values embody what we should expect of ourselves and each other, and what our nation expects of us.’ These are the foundations, which enable us to work together to achieve our mission: ‘to defend Australia and its national interests in order to advance Australia’s security and prosperity.’
Defence’s values are also Army’s values, and are as follows:
Service. The selflessness of character to place the security and interests of our nation and its people ahead of my own.
Courage. The strength of character to say and do the right thing, always, especially in the face of adversity.
Respect. The humanity of character to value others and treat them with dignity.
Integrity. The consistency of character to align my thoughts, words and actions to do what is right.
Excellence. The willingness of character to strive each day to be the best I can be, both professionally and personally.
To live these values, Defence ask that we:
Act with purpose for Defence and the nation.
Be adaptable, innovative and agile.
Collaborate and be team-focused.
Be accountable and trustworthy.
Reflect, learn and improve.
Be inclusive and value others.
For more information visit: https://www1.defence.gov.au/about/values
FUNNY
Join the military they said…………...!
Fresh Ammo (October 2020) - Written by Geoff Orme
This October edition of Fresh Ammo covers some upcoming events, commemorations, and an invitation to vote in the RSL NSW Elections. Also, we’d like to hear from you via Facebook or emailing, messaging or writing to us.
Commemorations
Our thoughts and thanks to our past WWI members as we acknowledge and thank those who participated in these campaigns, along with sacrifices made by family.
Remembrance Day – 11 November
Remembrance Day, originally known as Armistice Day, is observed on 11 November each year and marks the end of the First World War. It commemorates the signing of the peace agreement between Germany and the Allies that ended the war. A wreath-laying ceremony is held at the Cenotaph Martin Place at 11am on the day, and a one-minute silence is observed in memory of those who served.
Photos: L-R Remembrance Day 2018 (Ms Catherine Lewis); France; Remembrance Day Five Dock 2018
Fresh Ammo
Vietnam Veteran’s Day
On 18 August each year, we commemorate Vietnam Veterans' Day. This falls on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan which tool place in Vietnam in 1966. We remember the sacrifices of those who died and say thank you to almost 60,000 Australians who served both overseas and at home during the 10 years of our involvement in the Vietnam War. We especially acknowledge and thank our own members who served our country, both here and overseas. For more information, check out the ‘Anzac portal’ which is supported by DVA - https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/commemoration/commemoration-days/vietnam-veterans-day).
Battle of Long Tan
Taken from the Anzac portal (see link below), it notes that the Battle of Long Tan was one of the largest battles fought by Australians in the Vietnam War. On 18 August 1966, Delta (D) Company, Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR), fought an 'encounter' battle to defeat enemy forces in the Long Tan rubber plantation in Vietnam. The plantation was only a few kilometres from the 1st Australian Task Force base at Nui Dat. D Company suffered 42 casualties, including 18 dead – more than one-third of its strength – and some 245 enemy troops were killed. D Company's 105 men and 3 New Zealanders from 161 Battery, Royal New Zealand Artillery, fought for almost 4 hours against soldiers of the North Vietnamese Army, who outnumbered them by 10 to 1. For more details see https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/vietnam-war-1962-1975/events/combat/battle-long-tan
If you’d like to know more, or study this in further detail, it’s recommended you view the following websites: https://www.army.gov.au/our-heritage/history/history-focus/battle-long-tan , and the Australian Army’s ‘The Cove’ at: https://cove.army.gov.au/article/cove-thoughts-lessons-long-tan
Prime Minister Billy Hughes said at the time:
Of their deeds it is not necessary for me to speak. Of their valour, endurance and resource at Gallipoli, Pozieres, Baupaume and other famous fields, men still speak with awe.
Reference: DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs) (2020), Remembrance Day 11 November, DVA Anzac Portal, accessed 13 October 2020, http://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/commemoration/commemoration-days/remembrance-day
Commemorative Luncheon – Friday 4 December
A commemorative luncheon will be held at the Five Dock RSL Club for all sub-branch members and their partners at midday on Friday 4 December. We hope you can join us for fellowship and great company. A delicious three-course luncheon will be provided. These events are very enjoyable, well attended, and a lot of fun. We hope to see you their.
Vote in the 2020 RSL NSW Board Election
The RSL NSW 2020 Board Election is an important opportunity for eligible members to have your say in the composition of the Board of RSL NSW over the next 3 years. Candidate profiles are available to view on the RSL NSW website (https://www.rslnsw.org.au/). Voting opens on 5 October.
You can vote by mail (last votes to be mailed by 10 November), or online at the RSL NSW website http://bit.ly/RSLNSWVoteNow click on the “Vote Now” button or go directly to the Link Voting Portal http://bit.ly/LinkVotingPortal.
If you have any questions about the conduct of the election, please call the Returning Officer’s RSL NSW Election Information Line on 1800 260 668 during business hours.
Humour
Here is a photo from a course attendeded by one of our members.
Fresh Ammo (September 2020) - Written by Geoff Orme
This update of Fresh Ammo will cover some recent commemorations, an invitation to contribute to consultation into mental health, and some COVID-safe tips around wearing a protective mask. Also keep in mind that we’d like to hear from our members and ‘followers’, so get cracking on writing, emailing, messaging and, well, just get in touch!
Commemorations
Our thoughts and thanks to our members during August as we commemorate two significant events. Victory in the Pacific on 15 August, and Vietnam Veteran’s Day on 18 August. We acknowledge and thank our members who participated in these campaigns, including those who volunteered or were conscripted to serve, along with sacrifices made by family.
Victory in the Pacific Day.
Victory in the Pacific Day, or ‘VP Day’, is commemorated on 15 August, despite the acceptance of the surrender actually occurring on 14 August 1945. For Australians, it meant that the Second World War was finally over. Shown below are two photos from the Australian War Memorial and the Australian Department of Defence Library - https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/encyclopedia/vp_day) .
Left image: A group of Australian Women’s Army Service members and two soldiers read a special edition of Guinea Gold announcing the end of the war, Lae, New Guinea, 15 August 1945. AWM 094950
The Do’s and Don'ts of Facemasks
It seems masks are the ‘new normal’. Here is some information, which has been disseminated by the ABC, and also passed on to us by the NSW RSL via their helpful electronic newsletter - Read the full story
Subscribe to Services newspapers
Would you like to receive the latest news from each of our services (Navy, Army, Air Force)? Well you can, by subscribing to the respective services newspapers. They are informative and really put on show the latest activities, events, what our service people are doing. They also include the latest military hardware as well general interest stories. You can receive the papers themselves, or follow the electronic versions. Just click on the link below:
Access to personal monitoring technology
By way of update, DVA has a range of personal monitoring technologies available to eligible veterans, widows and widowers. Accessing and installing a personal monitoring system may be suitable for older veterans, widows and widowers if they are self-isolating to protect themselves from exposure to COVID-19 thereby reducing their support and social connectedness. Go to the DVA website for more details ( www.dva.gov.au ).
Five Dock RSL Member Submissions Invited
The Federal government recently announced that a National Commissioner- Defence and Veteran suicide Prevention position is being created in recognition of the need for concerted action around rates of suicide among the Australian Defence Force (ADF) member and veteran communities. They are calling for submissions on two Bills, their interaction and how the National Commissioner will operate.
RSL NSW will be coordinating member submissions, and will forward these to RSL National by the 11 September. They sincerely apologise on the given time frame, however this is to meet the government timeline. If you wish to make a written submission, please email Support@rslnsw.org.au by 9 September 2020.
For more information visit https://www.ag.gov.au/about-us/consultations/national-commissioner-defence-and-veteran-suicide-prevention-public-consultation-bills
Get in touch
We look forward to hearing from you by whatever means works for you. Letter, telephone, email or FaceBook are all most welcome. We’ll seek to keep you updated but don’t forget to let us know about any items which are important top you, our members. Use the ‘Contact Us’ tab on our site
Fresh Ammo (30 July 2020) -
Written by Geoff Orme
A successful and well-attended luncheon for members was hosted by the President, Mr Robert Ridge. Held at the Five Dock RSL Club on Saturday 18 July, it was attended by around twenty members and partners. As the photographs reveal, it was an enjoyable time and a wonderful personal catch up. This is seen as an opportunity to keep in touch and maintain the strong relationships within our club, especially during these uncertain times.
There’ll be more news on our anticipated next event. This is planned for some time in October; however, much will depend on advice from health authorities, the government, and our Board. We’ll keep in touch and of course, always feel welcome to get in touch by telephone, email, or letter. Our Facebook and website are ‘alive and well’, so why not check these out?
