Weekly News 28 February 2010
www.mrsite.co.uk/usersitesv2/HMAS-Leeuwin-1963.com/wwwroot/page9.htm

G'day All,

Another one of our intake year has passed on. Don (Bluey) Mann passed away Friday. His funeral is being held 11.00AM, Wednesday 10 March 2010 at Little Bay Chapel, Pine Avenue, Little Bay, with a Wake to follow the service. I intend going.

Ken Dobbie has produced Newsletter No 20, which is attached. Newsletter No 19 was released last week.

Further DFWA background and submissions are attached. They seem to be a group who are really trying to look after our interests particularly DFRDB. I am so impressed, I have just signed up for life membership.

Sick Parade Glen Summerhayes, Pommy Laundon, Rocky Freier and Tank Evans are crook. If you are crook, please let me know, your mates are sure keen to know how you are travelling. You never know those same mates might even give you a call or send an email.

cheers

Ron

this week:

A must read letter. This bloke would have been a Commander, not a Manager

Read it and please forward it on.........

18 Feb 2010

Hon Lindsay Tanner MP

Minister for Finance

Parliament House

CANBERRA ACT. 2600


Dear Mr Tanner,

INDEXATION OF DEFENCE FORCE SUPERANNUATION


Firstly, allow me to congratulate you on your performance on Q&A on the ABC on Monday night last. It was the greatest piece of obfuscation that I have ever witnessed.


Secondly, I would like to take umbrage with you over your insensitivity, your insincerity and your selective use of the truth on that same programme.

Your whole answer to the question of just and equitable indexing of DFRDB Superannuation was a regurgitation of the same old party line and waffle that we have had from you on so many occasions. You based your statements on the findings of the Mathews Report that more and more critics are holding in contempt as being a seriously flawed document, in both content and methodology. Indeed I suspect that the Report was done to Terms of Reference which led Mathews to come to the conclusions he reached and the recommendations he drew from them. An old trick; one that I have used myself on occasions, to good effect.


Either the TOR were engineered, or quite simply, Mathews made a mistake. Did you ever consider that possibility? Did you ever consider the possibility that you also made a mistake by accepting the Mathews recommendations? If you do consider that to be possible, would you be able to admit it? Your integrity should help you to decide.


You said that to increase the DFRDB superannuation indexation would cost $ billions which the taxpayer cannot afford. That $200 billion figure you stated is “rubbery” at best. What you conveniently failed to mention was that “claw-back” from various sources would reduce that figure by an estimated 50%, plus it would be further reduced by the increased spending power available to the superannuants. If we cannot afford to give the defenders of our great nation an equitable superannuation how can you spend billions like you do? We seem to be able to find the $500 million for politicians’ superannuation and the outrageous $25 million for the Taliban to try and convince them to stop killing our Troops. God help us!


I won’t repeat the statistics here on the yawning gulf between your superannuation, the aged pension and DFRDB superannuation; you already have the figures. Just a glance at them reveals a shameful situation which has existed for the last 20 years and growing steadily worse and widening year by year. These figures were recommended for correction by all 5 inquiries held prior to Mathews, yet ignored by him. And continue to be ignored by you.


It is inconceivable that members of Australia’s Defence Force should be treated in such a manner. They put their lives in your hands when they serve in a theatre of war yet the best treatment they receive from you is to be used as a back drop for your (and your fellow Ministers) photo opportunities when they leave, and then they are treated as second class citizens, behind aged pensioners and even unmarried mothers, when they return,. We seek no better treatment than that which is the right of all Australians. We only ask that we are granted the same indexation formula as at least the aged pension. Not to grant us that is blatant discrimination, it is unfair and it is unjust. I would think that your Discrimination Act would have something to say about that.


You should be aware that there are some 600,000 DFRDB and ComSuper superannuants plus dependents out here in the voting community. At the last election we targeted Liberal seats which our analysis shows helped to get Labor elected; witness Eden Monaro amongst others. We did so because we heard Labor’s election promise that you would correct this unfair anomaly in our indexation. This you have failed to do and, judging by your performance on Q&A, you remain intransigent. There are a lot of very angry and disillusioned superannuants out here (remember the thousands of emails Tony Jones received?) and I can assure that we, as a group, will do our utmost to garner as much support as we can in an attempt to remove Labor from office at the next election, because of the lies you have told to us and continue to do so.

I have no idea if you will answer this letter. You certainly failed to respond to my last communication. If perchance you do condescend to reply, please don’t add insult to this injury by including any of the usual party line platitudes in that reply.


Yours faithfully

Peter G. Snowdon

Colonel (Retd)

Vietnam Vet and DFRDB Superannuant









Weekly News 28 February 2010
www.mrsite.co.uk/usersitesv2/HMAS-Leeuwin-1963.com/wwwroot/page9.htm

Click here to download this file Click here to download this file Click here to download this file Click here to download this file Click here to download this file

G'day All,

A very busy week. Ken Dobbie has produced Newsletter No 19, he has stories of our year included.

DFWA and RSL supporting DFRDB recipients (have included the proforma letter to the MP for the member and widow and Neil Weekes message).

The JR's reunion committee have been unindated with dinner bookings. Dinner bookings have now been closed. Effectively, the JR's reunion dinner booking list is full, they have stated they intend to publish a list of attendees as soon as possible. What does that mean to you. Keep an eye on their website and see what vacancies are available. I have emailed the committe to see whether the two extra incomplete tables I had previously been granted are still in our name or whether the notice from the committee has overtaken that reservation. Will let you know the result.

Below is a link to the book Brian Adams has written on LEEUWIN. A really interesting read. It reinforces the statement made by your Divisional Officer at LEEUWIN, when he told you, 'you are the cream of Australia's youth'.

Sick Parade Glen Summerhayes and Pommy Laundon cannot make the reunion as they are too crook. Pommy sent this email:

Dear Ron,
I am unfortunately writing to inform you that I will be unable to attend the reunion that my wife & I were looking so forward to attending. Due to my Lung problems my doctor has suggested that such a trip would not be wise due to the oxygen supply requirements. I would very much like you to express my sincere regrets & hope that the reunion is the huge success that it deserves to be.
I would like to hear from any Winjan 1, 7th intake or Nakina 2 guys, so could you please pass this request on with my email address that would be great. Thank you.
Regards
Dave (Pommy) Laundon

Poem A poem forwarded by Tank Evans on 'Jack' is now on the website

cheers

Ron

this week:

HMAS LEEUWIN the story of the RAN'S Junior Recruits by Brian Adams
Senate Inquiry into proposed changes to Military Superannuation


SUBJECT HMAS LEEUWIN the story of the RAN'S Junior Recruits by Brian Adams

www.navy.gov.au/Publication:Papers_in_Australian_Maritime_Affairs_No._29




SUBJECT SENATE INQUIRY INTO PROPOSED CHANGES TO MILITARY SUPERANNUATION

2. Executive Summary
2.1 This submission:
a. advocates the adoption of an indexation regime for military superannuation pensions matching cost of living increases;
b. demonstrates that the nexus between military superannuation schemes and other Commonwealth superannuation schemes for indexation of payments is a policy aberration, is inconsistent with the legislative base of the schemes, is unjust and we recommend it be abandoned;
c. contends that the findings of the 2008 review of the indexation of superannuation are questionable and its recommendations unsafe because the inquiry terms of reference did not recognize the fact that the Commonwealth Parliament has thrice legislated for military superannuation schemes separate from civilian superannuation schemes;
d. shows a divergence between the intent of the Parliament and the actions of Governments in dealing with the indexation of military superannuation and the need for separate boards of management for military superannuation schemes to include military representatives; e. acknowledges that an extra cost to the taxpayer is involved and suggests an innovative means of obtaining a partial financial offset for this; and
f. forecasts further RSL submissions about other less than satisfactory aspects of military superannuation schemes.

2.2 This submission arises from the legitimate concern of RSL members that the decision of Government to continue using the measure of inflation, the Consumer Price Index, when indexing military superannuation payments, is unfair and fails to recognise the difference between civilian and military service. It shows by way of a comparison of indexation figures for the Consumer Price Index and the Male Total Average Weekly Earnings Index for the half decade 2002-2007 the extent to which military superannuants are disadvantaged.

2.3 The submission identifies the inconsistency that the indexation of military superannuation is virtually the only issue related to service in Australia’s armed forces aligned to civilian standards. It shows that since Federation, Members of the House of Representatives and Senators have legislated for almost all aspects of service in the nation’s armed forces, including superannuation schemes, because of the separateness of the requirements of military service. Of equal importance, the submission reminds readers that former members of the armed forces remain members of the “Defence Family” after completion of full time service, with many continuing on as members of the Defence Reserve.

2.4 In addition, the submission shows that Parliamentary inquiries have supported indexation matching cost of living increases whereas Government inquiries have backed the continued use of indexation geared to inflation, and demonstrates the impropriety of using the civilian wage setting determinant “productivity” in making judgements about the activities of those serving in the armed forces.





SUBJECT SENATE INQUIRY INTO PROPOSED CHANGES TO MILITARY SUPERANNUATION

Please find below a Joint Media Release from the Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Mrs Louise Markus MP, and the Shadow Minister for Defence Science, Personnel and Assisting Shadow Minister for Defence, the Hon Bob Baldwin MP, regarding a Senate Inquiry into proposed changes to military superannuation.


Key points

· Written submissions to the Senate Inquiry are due by Friday, 5 March 2010 (this Friday)

· A public hearing will be held on Thursday, 11 March 2010

· The Committee will report its findings on Monday, 15 March 2010.


Please contact Robert Hardie (0418 432 909) or Richard Briedis (0401 056 054) for more information.




Mrs Louise Markus MP The Hon Bob Baldwin MP

Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Shadow Minister for Defence Science, Personnel and

Assisting Shadow Minister for Defence


JOINT MEDIA RELEASE



Saturday, 27 February 2010


SENATE INQUIRY INTO SUPERANNUATION REFORM


The Senate will hold an Inquiry into military and civilian superannuation reforms proposed by the Rudd Labor Government.

The Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Louise Markus MP, and the Shadow Minister for Defence Science, Personnel and Assisting Shadow Minister for Defence, Bob Baldwin MP, said the Coalition urged interested individuals to make a submission to the Senate on these Bills.

“The veteran community have made numerous representations to me with concerns about the Governance of Australian Superannuation Schemes Bill 2010 and related Bills”, Mrs Markus said.

“The Bills propose the management of civilian and military superannuation schemes be merged into one new authority, with a 10-person board comprising three trade union representatives and two Defence representatives”, Mr Baldwin said. “The remaining five representatives will be chosen by the Finance Minister.”

“The Coalition does not support the inclusion of three trade unionists onto a board managing military superannuation. Furthermore, we do not believe the merger is in the best interests of veterans, ex-service members or the broader Australian community.

Mr Baldwin and Mrs Markus said military superannuation remained an issue which evoked deep passion in the ex-service community.

“The Senate Inquiry will provide an opportunity for those people with concerns about military superannuation arrangements to have their voices heard.”

Written submissions to the Senate Inquiry need to be lodged by Friday 5 March 2010, with a public hearing set down for Thursday 11 March 2010. The Senate Inquiry will report to the Senate with its findings on Monday 15 March 2010.

Written submissions can be made by Friday 5 March 2010 to:

Committee Secretary
Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Public Administration
PO Box 6100, Parliament House
CANBERRA ACT 2600


Email: fpa.sen@aph.gov.au

Mrs Markus and Mr Baldwin encourage anyone with a view on military superannuation management arrangements, especially the proposed merger, to contact the committee with their views.

MEDIA CONTACT Robert Hardie (0418 432 909) (Mrs Markus)

Richard Briedis (0401-056-054) (Mr Baldwin)




Weekly News 21 February 2010
www.mrsite.co.uk/usersitesv2/HMAS-Leeuwin-1963.com/wwwroot/page9.htm


G'day All,

Hope you are all well. Missed sending out a weekly news last week. This week has a lot of info. We had a fun time in Husky, I will be publishing a Newsletter within two weeks with some photos. Mick Gallagher's reputation is in tatters, he actually emailed me photos that were taken.

The item that should be stressed is the JR's reunion. 15 March is the cutoff for the purchase of plaques for the dedication ceremony and bookings for the function and memorabilla. Jim Bush has been kind enough to forward the reunion programme. They are the first two attachments.

Our Sick parade:

We have heard Don 'Bluey' Mann is crook. Give him a call. Tank Evans and Rocky Freier have forwarded emails below. Hope Blue sends us one.

G'day Folks,

Well, I got home from Hospital last Thursday with a very painful knee but able to hobble around using 2 walking sticks. I am now using one and that is only to keep me steady. For those of you who have had a knee replaced you know how sore it can get so you can understand I am still sore but coping quite well. I can't drive for about 6 weeks but I don't mind too much.

A very big thankyou to all those who sent their good wishes. It was appreciated very much. Of course I also have to thank my good lady Phyllis who is only complaining a little bit at this stage. She has told me not to get used to the assistance she is giving me. What a shame!

Thanks once again for the good wishes

Best Regards and 73's

Gareth/Tank/VK4EGE


and Rocky Freier
I am home. Worse for wear but here. Doc says may as well be in pain and suffer at home than be in Hospital.
Least i can get a beer

Cheers

RockyN


You would of seen of heard of the DFRDB issues raised on the Q & A programme. A newsletter is included


This week:
Minister Tanner Q & A
Lost souls Kenneth James, Mick Kernaghen,
Media Release TPI's Job capacity assessments disbanded
Reunions Ballina all ships, Greenies, PTI's
Attachements Sydney veterans, DFWA Briefing Notes on governance of Australian government, Reunion Programme, Update 247 - 17 Feb 2010, Reunion functions booking, Newsletter No 6
Click here to download this file Click here to download this file Click here to download this file Click here to download this file

cheers

Ron







SUBJECT LOST SOULS


Neville is still trying to locate shipmates who served in his part of ship with him, whilst serving in H.M.A.S. SYDNEY III. If any one could please help contact the following former SYDNEY sailor, he would be very greatful.

ORD/RP, KENNETH ARTHUR JAMES, R106041, H.M.A.S. SYDNEY, Oct 1969 - Aug 1970.

If any one can help would they please contact:

Neville Cunningham, 20 Phillipe Dve St Albans Park,Vic 3219 or Tel: (03) 5248 4835, Mobile 0438 162280.

Regards
David (Speed) Dwyer
H.M.A.S. SYDNEY & VLSVA
Hon Sec VICTORIA


If you are able to assist with the following request
please contact Tony Robinson direct at
email address: tr1945@bigpond.com



I am wanting to contact Mick Kernaghan joined Nirimba Jujly 1961 with me. He was a Tiffy with me on Diamantina 65-66 then Vendetta 66-70 and did Vietnam gunline trip. Our best man at our wedding 1968. Was at Mordialloc. Happy for you to pass on my contact details as will be in Frankston comming easter.

Cheers
Tony Robinson


SUBJECT TPI's Job capacity assessments disbanded

Minister for Veterans' Affairs Mailing List

VA005 Thursday, 18 February 2010



RED TAPE CUT FOR VETERANS AND ADF PERSONNEL



The red tape facing Australia’s most disabled ex-serving personnel accessing income support has been cut in new changes announced today by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin.



Minister Griffin said that from March 2010, veteran pensioners assessed as Totally and Permanently Incapacitated (TPI) would be exempt from Centrelink medical reviews to access a Disability Support Pension.



“Since coming to Government we have sought to reduce the barriers facing veterans and injured ex-serving personnel seeking compensation and income support,” the Minister said.



“We established an Interdepartmental Working Group to simplify the bureaucratic maze facing veterans and ex-serving personnel, making it easier for them to access their entitlements and streamlining arrangements across agencies.



“Today’s announcement immediately assists around 1100 veterans on a Centrelink Disability Support Pension and has the potential to benefit many more into the future.



“Currently TPI pensioners undergo repeated Job Capacity Assessments to access and retain their Disability Support Pension. Our TPI pensioners have already been through a rigorous assessment process to access their DVA benefits so making them go through a similar process to access Centrelink benefits is unreasonable.”



Today’s announcement builds on a range of initiatives introduced since the election, including expanding acceptance the ADF Identification Card as Proof of Identity by more government agencies and compiling the ADF Transition Handbook, which lists all interdepartmental benefits and support services available to separating ADF members.



DVA and Centrelink are also sharing data to help reduce the risk of overpayments for the more than 17,500 pensioners on both DVA and Centrelink payments.



Mr Griffin said the inter-agency co-operation under this Government was creating smarter ways to deliver “whole-of-government” services.



“I am pleased with our progress to date but more will be done in our efforts to support our veterans and defence personnel,” Mr Griffin said.



Media inquiries: Sasha Nimmo 0437 863 109







SUBJECT BALLINA ALL SHIPS REUNION



The Ballina All Ships Reunion 2010 will be held from 19th to 21st November.


For information contact: Max Lewis - 02.6628.0086 or Merv Stevens - 02.6681.5620

or send an email to: snake1@exemail.com.au


The Third Greenies Reunion will be held in Ballina, NSW, on the Weekend of 25/26/27 June 2010.


All information can be found on the Greenies website www.pussersgreenies.org


Details can be found under the “Email List” page – if you are not a member of the list, please fill in your details on the blue “Leave Details” heading.


If you are planning to attend, please book your accommodation as soon as possible, as prices are going up. Accommodation booking details are on the information sheet on the website




The National Reunion of RAN PTIs will take place at Mornington (Vic) from 7-10 Oct 2010. Could you please send out the attachment to your group email. Thank you very much for your assistance.

Allan Von Senden
LCDR PT, RAN
Officer In Charge
Australian Defence Force Physical Training School
HMAS CERBERUS Tel: 03 5931 5197 Mob: 0418217797 Fax: 03 5931 5158



Weekly News 7 February 2010
www.mrsite.co.uk/usersitesv2/HMAS-Leeuwin-1963.com/wwwroot/page9.htm


G'day All,

Have just spent the weekend at ALBATROSS and CRESWELL with the RAN Rugby squad. Lots of changes to both Establishments. Hope our results at the National championships in May change also after being thrashed by Army last year.

Friday's function is just a few days away, I have booked tables for 25 under 'Ron' from 1800. This will allow anybody who hasnt previously notified me of attending a seat. I intend to be there by 1730, hopefully with our new banner. Those attending are: Tom and Carol Kinross, Tom and Val Houldsworth, John Hatchman, Bill and Narelle Hay, Gordon and Robin Duncan, Russ and Georgina Nelson, Sandy and Rhonda Michels, Bristles and Lou Lassau, Warren French, Mike Hogan, Mick Gallagher, Spook Cairns, Sandy Powell, Ian and Marian Schubert and myself. Apologies have been received from Tony Gawe, Larry Kent, Terry Dack, Glen Butler and Wayne Chapman.

PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU INTEND TO ATTEND.

The JR reunion group have issued another newsletter. We currently have 54 attending. It is now clear that table bookings for the function at the casino are to be arranged by 'captains'. If you wish to sit with other members of our group please let me know. I will make the bookings. For those that have asked me already I will do so and inform you of the details. There are other issues in the newsletter, please go online www.jrsreunion.org/

There is a very interesting article about the Taliban if you are a DFRDB recipient. When I read it first, thought somebody was taking the piss, unfortunately not. Please read.

cheers

Ron

This week:

Taliban and superannuation
Free advice from an Australian Lawyer
Naval Ship Associations Luncheon
History of the Aussie Flag


SUBJECT TAX DOLLARS FOR THE TALIBAN
Monday, 1 February 2010

Tax Dollars for the Taliban – But not for ex-Diggers

The Rudd Government has announced that Australia will donate $25m to an Afghanistan Government

trust fund to help integrate former Taliban fighters into Afghan society.

The same Government steadfastly refuses to ensure that former Australian Defence Force men and

women have a retirement scheme that maintains their superannuation pension’s buying power.

Ex-diggers are tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), abandoned over a decade ago for other

Commonwealth pensions because it does not protect pension purchasing power.

The Taliban dollars would fund the first few years of decent indexation for military superannuation

pensioners, using the exact same indexation method that Mr Rudd’s government rightly uses for age

pensions.

Meanwhile, independent observers say that the Taliban dollars will reward bad behaviour by only

paying those who fought against Australian diggers, ignoring Afghans who helped us.

“Defence Force people feel more than slighted when the Government says it can afford to donate to a

fund to help those who fought against Australians but cannot afford to look after its own ex-service

men and women,” Defence Force Welfare Association President David Jamison said today.

“DFWA welcomes initiatives to promote peace in Afghanistan,” Mr Jamison added.

“But we do not accept that the Government can cry poor when dealing with the Nation’s ex-service

men and their families while lavishing tax dollars on the nation’s enemies.”

“And what happens when the Rudd Government’s Taliban dollars are gone? Will the repatriated

Taliban fighters go back to killing Australians?”

DFWA notes that Foreign Minister Smith can give no assurances as to how the Taliban dollars will be

spent, other than to say the funds will be under the oversight of the ‘international community’. It

seems that the Rudd Government is happy to trust other governments, some of which are

breathtakingly corrupt, while ignoring its own ex-service constituents.

“It is way past time for the Government to take action to help give ex-service men and women a

decent retirement,” said Mr Jamison.

“How can the Government find dollars to reward the Taliban but refuse the dollars needed to protect

the purchasing power of military superannuation pensions?”

DFWA’s National Executive will be discussing the implications of this disturbing development at its

meeting in Melbourne next week.

Media Contacts

National Secretary: Les Bienkiewicz 0411 444248, DFWA National President: David Jamison 0416 107557



SUBJECT AUSTRALIAN LAWYER'S ADVICE

　

Subject: Australian Lawyer's Advice - Worth reading

This is really good and valuable stuff to pass on,

particularly the phone numbers at the bottom.












1. LAWYER'S ADVICE (NSW) - NO CHARGE (for a change)

A corporate LAWYER sent the following out to the employees in his company:

1. Next time you order cheques, have only your initials (instead of your first name) and surname put on them. If someone takes your cheque book, they will not know if you sign your cheques with just your initials or your first name, but your bank will know how you sign your cheques.

2. Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put "PHOTO ID REQUIRED".

3. When you are writing cheques to pay on your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the "For" line. Instead, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the number, and anyone who might be handling your cheque as it passes through all the cheque processing channels won't have access to it.

4. Place your work phone number on your cheques instead of your home phone. If you have a PO Box, use that instead of your home address. If you do not have a PO Box, use your work address. Never have your Centrelink Number printed on your cheques. You can add it if it is necessary, but if you have it printed, anyone can get it.

5. Run the contents of your wallet through a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each licence, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place (not your wallet). I also carry a photocopy of my passport when travelling either here or abroad. We've all heard horror stories about fraud that's committed on us in stealing a name, address, Social Security number, credit cards.

Unfortunately I, an attorney, have first-hand knowledge because my wallet was stolen last month. Within a week, the thieves ordered an expensive monthly mobile phone package, applied for a VISA credit card, had a credit line approved to buy a Dell computer, received a PIN number from DMV to change my driving record information on-line, and more.

But here's some critical information to limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know:

1. We have been told we should cancel our credit cards immediately, but the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them.

2. File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc., were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).

3. But here's what is perhaps most important of all: (I never even thought to do this.)

Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your Tax File Number your passport number and driver’s licence number. I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an application for credit was made over the Internet in my name. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorise new credit. By the time I was advised to do this, almost two weeks after the theft, all the damage had been done. There are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thieves' purchases, none of which I knew about before placing the alert. Since then, no additional damage has been done, and the thieves threw my wallet away. This weekend someone handed it in. It seems to have stopped them dead in their tracks.

Now, here are some numbers which you might need to contact if your wallet etc has been stolen:

1. Visa Card Australia - 1800 621 199
2. Visa Card International - 1800 450 346
3. Lost Travellers' Cheques - 1800 127 477
4. MasterCard Australia - (02) 9466 3700
5. MasterCard International - 1800 120 113
6. Bankcard Australia - (02) 9281 6633
7. Medicare - 132 011
8. Centrelink Fraud - 137 230
9. Seniors Card - 1300 364 758
10. Passport - 131 232
11. ANZ FREECALL - 1800 033 844
12. Bank West - 131 718
13. Citibank - 132 484
14. Tamworth Coles/Myer Source -2340 1300 306 397
15. Commonwealth - 132 221
16. CUSCAL- MyCard 1300 135 538
17. GE Capital - 1300 369 904
18. Members Equity - 1300 654 998
19. National - 132 265
20. St George - 1800 028 208
21. SydneyVirgin - 2000 1800 080 000
22. Westpac - 1800 230 144
23. Woolworths Ezy Banking - 137 288

We pass on jokes & just about everything,

But if you pass this information on it could really help someone




SUBJECT NAVAL SHIP ASSOCIATIONS LUNCHEON


FEDERATION of NAVAL SHIP ASSOCIATIONS

LUNCHEON

FNSA PRESIDENT

CMDR KEN SWAIN AM RAN (RTD)

AND COMMITTEE

INVITE SHIP ASSOCIATIONS MEMBERS, WIVES OR PARTNERS TO THE 2010 FNSA LUNCHEON.

PARLIAMENT HOUSE SYDNEY

Thursday 15th APRIL 2010. 1200 for 1230.

" In the Presence of Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Russ Crane, AO, CSM, RAN"



　

$60 PP Includes two course luncheon with drinks. Jacket and Tie with Medals.

RSVP Ken Street, Secretary FNSA by 22nd Mar 2010

(02) 9359 4976 (w) 0413 182 950 (m)

Kenstreet36@optusnet.com.au



SUBJECT HISTORY OF THE FLAG

all about our flag, but do read it it is worth it.

www.larryhannigan.com/VOFtextandaudio.htm








Weekly News 31 January 2010
www.mrsite.co.uk/usersitesv2/HMAS-Leeuwin-1963.com/wwwroot/page9.htm


G'day All,

Hope you all had a good week and especially enjoyed Australia Day. One who has had a good week, is Jim Harris, his son Ryan, playing for Australia on his second and third occassion picked up man of the match awards in both games as he took a fivefor in both. Congratulations to Ryan. Jim must be the proudest Dad in Australia. Gai would have been looking down, feeling very happy and proud for her son.

Who is coming to our function at the RSL at Husky on the 12th of February commencing at 1800: Tom and Carol Kinross, Tom and Val Houldsworth, John Hatchman, Bill and Narelle Hay, Gordon and Robin Duncan, Russ and Georgina Nelson, Sandy Michels and his wife, Warren French, Mike Hogan, Mick Gallagher, Spook Cairns, Sandy Powell, Ian and Marian Schubert and myself. Apologies have been received from Tony Gawe, Larry Kent and Wayne Chapman. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU INTEND TO ATTEND.

The JR reunion group have issued another newsletter. We currently have 51 attending. It is now clear that table bookings for the function at the casino are to be arranged by 'captains'. If you wish to sit with other members of our group please let me know. I will make the bookings. There are other issues in the newsletter, please go online www.jrsreunion.org/

Tank Evans forwarded the following email.

Hello All,

Just a short note to let you know that tomorrow Friday 29th Jan. I am going into Holy Spirit Hospital near Chermside Nth of Brisbane to have my a total replacement of my left knee. No real drama, I should be in there 5 or 6 days if all goes well. I've had a lot of problems with it and have not been to bed for 5 months or so and sleep in my armchair. (So what's new you say?)

Still waiting for confirmation of the need for the long outstanding operation commonly called "adadictomy" or should I say Phyllis is waiting!! I'm serious.

Regards to all

Gareth aka Tank and Phyllis

Spend a few minutes and have a read of the attachment. It highlights where the Ex service organisations stand on promises the government has made and what has been delivered.

Have forwarded 'Do not call register' previously, I do it again as it has hit a hip pocket nerve with me. I have been stung $66 in the last month. Am currently trying to recover the money. I have now registered.

cheers

Ron

This week:

Do not call register
Lost soul - Barry Muggleton
The Lucky Country - Poem (good read)


Subject: Do Not Call Register!



Have just registered my Mobile.
Cheers


Greetings
MOBILE PHONE GO PUBLIC NEXT MONTH TO TELEMARKETERS
Subject: Do Not Call Register
I have checked and double checked this with my three 'scam/hoax sites'. All appears 100% legit. I had been registered for my landline previously and it worked well.
I re-registered on line today (easy as) and added our mobile phone numbers to the DO NOT CALL register. If you do not register you may be charged for unsolicited calls in addition to endless text message 'beeping' etc.

Cheers, Les

SUBJECT BARRY MUGGLETON


Neville Cunningham is trying to trace his ex part of ship
PO Barry James Muggleton, R58507
HMAS SYDNEY, 1969-1970.


If any one can help would they please contact:

Neville Cunningham:
20 Phillipe Dve, St Albans Park, Vic 3219
Phone: 03.5248.4835 or Mobile 0438.162.280


SUBJECT THE LUCKY COUNTRY


Australia Day

Australians are a funny lot, you'll often hear one curse,

How things have started badly, and they'll probably get worse,

The weathers dry, the sun's so hot it's stolen all the water,

The Government has never done the things we think they oughta'.



But if we hear a tourist say his home is much more grand,

They had better be prepared to make a very solid stand.

For although we Aussies may complain at what's become our lot,

When someone knocks this country, we defend with all we've got.



We may criticize some teenage brat, may even wish them failure,

But we stand behind them cheering when they're playing for Australia.

Because, if this is home to you, the country of your birth,

Then you back the native player to beat anyone on Earth.



When the cricket bats are swinging or when someone scores a try,

When a home grown horse has won the cup and made the owner cry,

When some paralympic athlete hits the front and sets the pace,

You'll hear 'Aussie Aussie Aussie' as the crowd goes off their face.



And although we like to take a break in overseas locations,

If you take the time to question this nomadic population,

They will tell you without blinking that wherever they may roam,

The best part of the journey was the last bit, ....coming home.



For the sun was never brighter on the beach at Waikiki,(????????)

Than it is on all the sandy shores Australia has to see,

The water never purer nor the air as fresh and clear,

The people never friendlier than those that we have here.



If you venture to the outback where grass is scarce as snow,

As you swelter you may wonder what it was that made you go,

But just look at the locals who have lived there since their birth,

And I know you will not find a better class of folk on earth.



All across this wide brown country from the Cape to Hobart town,

There are people who will help you when you find the chips are down,

And if someone should abuse you, and does it just because,

Then that person's not Australian, and that person never was.



So when you feel disgruntled just remember this rendition,

And never blame the country for the acts of politicians,

Look up and count your blessings when you see our flag unfurled,

And be grateful that you live in the best country in the world.

Happy Australia Day














Weekly News 24 January 2010
www.mrsite.co.uk/usersitesv2/HMAS-Leeuwin-1963.com/wwwroot/page9.htm


G'day All,

Happy Australia Day for Tuesday. Will have a Coopers beer for all. Had a call from Nev Barry tonight, he is enjoying himself in Tully, retired of course since his heart complaint, but enjoying life. He is a potential starter for the July reunion in Perth.

Talk of reunions, who is coming to our function at the RSL at Husky on the 12th of February commencing at 1800 and hasnt told me yet. I need to book a table or three for dinner and would like to know the numbers. What a way to spend a Friday night. When we were at sea we tried to avoid weekends at JB like the plague, as it meant divisions and a weekend away from sunny Sydney. That is all in the past, you can wear civvy's ashore, take your partner to dinner, no worries about missing the liberty boat and having to swim to the ship and of course you have the opportunity to share a good time with your mates.

The enclosure was sent to me by Mac MacKenzie the ex Pressure Head. The article is about a Newsletter for SYDNEY and Escorts.

cheers

Ron

This week:

RETURNED & SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA

(QUEENSLAND BRANCH)

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release – 13 January 2010

RSL denies selling Last Post to phone company

An email circulated by Bundaberg man Bill Gelhaar, both in Australia and New Zealand, has resulted in the veteran community believing that the RSL has sold The Last Post to a mobile phone company for use as a ring tone.

The Returned & Services League of Australia (Queensland Branch) would like all former and serving defence force personnel to know that this is not true.

The Last Post was made available, by RSL Queensland, as a ring tone in a two week fund raising campaign leading up to Remembrance Day on November 11, 2009, as part of its annual poppy appeal.

The ring tone was part of a specially created web site promoting Remembrance Day and a new initiative by RSL Queensland – a poppy wallpaper for mobile phones that could be downloaded for a minimum donation of $2.

Over 250,000 hits were recorded at www.rslpoppy.com with thousands of people donating a minimum of $2 to the RSL and receiving a poppy as a thank you for their support of the League’s vital veteran welfare work, RSL Queensland President Doug Formby said.

"Promotion of the web site and the mobile poppy initiative concluded on Remembrance Day and as a result The Last Post can no longer be downloaded," Mr Formby said.

"During the campaign, about 50 people contacted RSL Queensland complaining about The Last Post being made available as a ring tone. However, it should be noted that it was the second most popular content to be downloaded after the mobile poppy."

Mr Formby said the limited campaign succeeded in increasing awareness about the commemoration amongst younger generations.

"Crowds at all Remembrance Day services across Queensland where double those of previous years and the RSL’s use of digital media attracted the attention of thousands of people both in Australia and overseas," he said.

"It is the young people of today who will be organising the commemorations of the future. If securing their interest in past sacrifices and time-honoured traditions can be achieved by utilising modern means than the RSL must move with the times."

Mr Formby said it was disappointing that some members of the veteran community had recently seen fit to put forward their viewpoint on the issue in emails to RSL Queensland in a hostile and aggressive manner, without knowing the full facts.

"We have also received positive feedback from people saying if they heard The Last Post as a ring tone on their mobile phone it would make them remember all veterans," he said.

RSL Queensland will not be making The Last Post available as a ring tone during its 2010 Poppy Appeal.

"While everyone will not always agree with the activities of the RSL, the League makes no apology for continuing to investigate methods of engaging with the community as a whole to ensure its relevancy now and into the future, Mr Formby said.

REQUEST FOR INTERVIEWS:

Charmaine Dillon-Smith, Public Relations Officer, RSL (QLD Branch, Australia) 0432 820 370

Phone: (07) 3634 9444 Email:charmaine.dillonsmith@rslqld.org 1

.



Weekly News 17 January 2010
www.mrsite.co.uk/usersitesv2/HMAS-Leeuwin-1963.com/wwwroot/page9.htm


G'day All,

Hope all is well. I believe Skull's funeral was well attended. Would be happy to receive a report and photos. There has been a lot of email re DFRDB indexation. Get off your butt and support the proposed change, it is in you or your mate's interest. Ken dobbie has produced another excellent newsletter, well worth the read. There are two very interesting items this week, the history of the flag (web address) and the history of the National Anthem.

This week:

JR Memorial Project Newsletter No 18 attachment
History of the Australian Flag
Advance Australia Fair
DFRDB Petition
Friday 12 Feb 2010 - next function
Victorian HMAS SYDNEY and Vietnam Logistical Support function
Lost soul - POME Archibald MacDonald


cheers


Ron

SUBJECT AUSTRALIAN FLAG

voiceoftheflag.wheylite.com.au/votf.htm


SUBJECT ADVANCE AUSTRALIA FAIR





ADVANCE AUSTRALIA FAIR

Advance Australia Fair was composed by Glasgow-born Peter Dodds McCormick (1834?-1916), who used the pen-name "Amicus", a Latin word meaning "friend".
The first public performance is thought to have been given in Sydney on November 30th (St Andrew's Day), 1878 at the St Andrew's Day concert of the Highland Society. The singer was a Mr Andrew Fairfax.

The song was later published by W.J. Paling and Company.

It was also sung by a choir of 10,000 at the inauguration of the Commonwealth of Australia (1 January 1901), with a few amendments by McCormick including the addition of the words "our youthful Commonwealth".

In 1907, the Australian Government - the Commonwealth Government of Australia - awarded McCormick £100 for his composition.

McCormick died in 1916. His obituary in The Sydney Morning Herald stated prophetically:

Mr. McCormick established a reputation with the patriotic song, "Advance Australia Fair", which [...] has come to be recognised as something in the nature of an Australian National Anthem.

The copyright on Advance Australia Fair ended in 1966, fifty years after McCormick's death.

The Australian Labor Party policy for the 1972 elections included finding an alternative to God Save the Queen. The ALP won office in that election, and the Whitlam government (1972-75) announced in the Prime Minister's 1973 Australia Day address that a competition would be held under the auspices of the Australia Council for the Arts to find a new Australian national anthem.

Although a large number of submissions were received (2,500 lyric and 1,400 music entries), none were considered acceptable.

The judges recommended that one of three existing Australian songs - Advance Australia Fair, Banjo Patterson's Waltzing Matilda or Carl Linger's Song of Australia - be selected.

On April 8th, 1974, opinion polls were held by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, and the government announced that henceforth Advance Australia Fair was to be Australia's anthem, but with God Save The Queen to be played when (British) royalty was present.

The Whitlam government was dismissed by the Governor-General (Sir John Kerr) on November 11, 1975, and was replaced by the Fraser (Liberal) government (1975-1983).

In January 1976, the Fraser government modified the rules governing the national anthem. Advance Australia Fair was to be used, without words, on non-regal occasions, and God save the Queen was to be used on all royal, vice-regal, defence, and loyal toast occasions.

The Fraser Government held a plebiscite, the National Song Poll, on 21 May 1977.

The results were: (from www.ausflag.com.au/debate/amr/amr23.html):

Votes % (rounded)
First Past the Post:
Advance Australia Fair 2,940,854 43%
Waltzing Matilda 1,918,206 28%
God Save the Queen 1,257,341 19%
Song of Australia 652,858 10%
TOTAL 6,769,259 100%

After Distribution of Preferences:
Advance Australia Fair 4,415,642 65%
Waltzing Matilda 2,353,617 35%
TOTAL 6,769,259 100%



SUBJECT DFRDB PETITION

www.gopetition.com/online/32989.html



SUBJECT FRIDAY12 FEB 10 - NEXT FUNCTION

Our next function is to held at the Huskisson RSL on Friday 12 Feb at 1800ish. Should be perfect, overlooking JB on a Friday evening sharing a meal and a beer and a yarn with your mates and some of the partners. Have received one apology for the event (Doug Wilson) so I expect a huge turnout.


SUBJECT Victorian HMAS SYDNEY and Vietnam Logistical Support function





The Victorian Branch of the

HMAS Sydney & Vietnam Logistical Support Veterans Association

are celebrating their

25th Anniversary

with a

National Reunion

in Melbourne

of all former

Vietnam Logistical Support Sailors

over the

Anzac Day Long Weekend, 23rd to 26th April 2010


For further details please contact:

David (Speed) Dwyer at email address:

davidgdwyer@hotmail.com or phone 03.9720.8183





SUBJECT POME Archibald MacDonald




If you are able to help with the following request for assistance
please contact Jeanette Egan direct at email address: jeanniegan58@aussiebroadband.com.au

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *



Hi, Bill and Margaret,

I am trying to locate Archibald William MACDONALD - born 8 May 1923.

He was a Stoker 11 in 1952 who lastly served on HMAS DERWENT in 1966 when he was POM(E). His wife was Heather Doreen STRUDWICK.

Ron and Dawn STOWER wish to get in contact with them!!!

Kind Regards
Jeanette /Jeannie
jeanniegan58@aussiebroadband.com.au








Weekly News 10 January 2010
www.mrsite.co.uk/usersitesv2/HMAS-Leeuwin-1963.com/wwwroot/page9.htm


G'day All,

Welcome to the 48th year since you signed the dotted line and were issued with pussars underpants. Ian (Schubes) Schubert joined on his 16th birthday. He was on top pay from day one. Happy birthday for the 7th January mate.

This week:

Paul Gallagher
Skull Boden and Hector Hart's email
Weekly News website page
12 February 2010 - next function

cheers


Ron

SUBJECT PAUL GALLAGHER

I have not recieved any information on Paul Gallagher's funeral last Thursday at CERBERUS. Mick Gallagher attended, he has taken himself to the Elvis festival at Parkes for the weekend and is then off to the Gold Coast on Monday for Skull's funeral. Will forward a report when he recovers.


SUBJECT SKULL BODEN

These details were received Skull's funeral arrangements are as follows. 1100 hours Monday 11th Jan. Integrity Funeral Chapel 18 Tonga Place Parkwood QLD.
Medals to be worn, at this point in time it is intended to adjourn to Currumbin RSL Club on conclusion of the service,

The following 63ers have indicated they will be attending Skull's funeral:

Ross and Di Fullarton
Mal Chatfield
Mick Gallagher
Kev Uttley
Richard Lewin
Eddy and Kathy Sheavils
Russ Loane
Woody Woodward
Phill and Tracy Narramore

Apologies have been received from Ian Schubert, Doug Wilson, Perry Whitehouse, Ken Dobbie, Hector Hart, Des Honess, Glen Butler, Mike Hogan, Darby Ashton and unfortunately I am unable to attend.

Received this email from Hector Hart,

Ron,

I was fortunate to see Wayne (Skull) in September last year, I went up early so I could spend a bit of time with him.

I also rang him on a regular basis to catch up and see how he was getting on.

He was always happy and cheerful even if he was struggling with his health.

I will miss him so very much as I'm sure everyone will.

When I saw him at the reunion in 2005 we talk about a lot of things and one of them was what he would like on his headstone.

He wrote it down for me, I will quote it as written.

"Wayne Skull Boden RAN"

31/7/1946 - 31/12/2009

"There wasn't a swinging bar door underneath a neon sign that he didn't go through and treat people really kind"

How true is that.

Ron I'm not sure what happens with the dedications but it would be nice if his words above could be included.

I would like to contribute to the dedication so please keep me informed.

You can send this on to all who might be interested.

Regards Hector Hart



SUBJECT WEEKLY NEWS WEBPAGE

The contents of all weekly News are included on the webpage above. All Weekly News from 2008 and 09 have been moved to another page in the web site for anybody's perusal if wanted.


SUBJECT FRIDAY12 FEB 10 - NEXT FUNCTION

Our next function is to held at the Huskisson RSL on Friday 12 Feb at 1800ish. Should be perfect, overlooking JB on a Friday evening sharing a meal and a beer and a yarn with your mates and some of the partners. Have received one apology for the event (Doug Wilson) so I expect a huge turnout.