For the current news around the Association, click on the button below to link to issues of the Association Newsletter, Track
Congratulations to our members, Mike Fogarty OAM and Kevin Hunter OAM
on receipt of their Order of Australia Medal
in the Australia Day Honours list 26 Jan 2023
on receipt of their Order of Australia Medal
in the Australia Day Honours list 26 Jan 2023
Sunday 18th December 2022 was more than the RAACA Kids Picnic, it was also the 100th birthday of one of our members, Joan Finlayson. Photos from the event are shown below.
Vale
( short for the Latin phrase “ave atque vale” meaning Farewell or Goodbye and pronounced Va-ley)
( short for the Latin phrase “ave atque vale” meaning Farewell or Goodbye and pronounced Va-ley)
Rod Westgarth
Comments by Peter Branagan OAM
When the news came through to me in the USA on 7 May that our esteemed member Rod Westgarth had been cruelly taken from us, I was absolutely shattered. It took some days for this tragic news to sink in.
Rod had joined the association back in the early Nineties following his three years service in the RAAC, mostly in 2nd Cavalry Regiment. He was a carpenter when I first came to know him and he would devote many hours of volunteer work at Puckapunyal in the Army Tank Museum. More than 20 years ago, Rod decided a change of direction was needed in his life so he joined the Victoria Police as a mature age recruit. Given his age and life experiences, Rod brought a very balanced approach to the challenges of being a rural copper. He suffered somewhat from the effects of the Black Saturday bushfires when he was one of the first responders into his patch – the Whittlesea/Kinglake area. I know his cool demeanour and common sense approach took the sting out of many serious and confronting situations.
He had a strong sense of family as was attested by wife Sharon and children Lauren and James at the packed funeral service in the chapel of the Glen Waverly Police Academy on Monday 22 May. May you Rest in Peace now Rod, your duty is well and truly done.
Rod had joined the association back in the early Nineties following his three years service in the RAAC, mostly in 2nd Cavalry Regiment. He was a carpenter when I first came to know him and he would devote many hours of volunteer work at Puckapunyal in the Army Tank Museum. More than 20 years ago, Rod decided a change of direction was needed in his life so he joined the Victoria Police as a mature age recruit. Given his age and life experiences, Rod brought a very balanced approach to the challenges of being a rural copper. He suffered somewhat from the effects of the Black Saturday bushfires when he was one of the first responders into his patch – the Whittlesea/Kinglake area. I know his cool demeanour and common sense approach took the sting out of many serious and confronting situations.
He had a strong sense of family as was attested by wife Sharon and children Lauren and James at the packed funeral service in the chapel of the Glen Waverly Police Academy on Monday 22 May. May you Rest in Peace now Rod, your duty is well and truly done.
Andrew (Andy) Zsolt
21 Aug 1936 - 3 Apr 2022
"A through gentleman and a file soldier"
"A through gentleman and a file soldier"
Much Loved Black Hat Farewelled
Above: Photos from Andy's funeral
On Monday 11 April, a much loved and respected Black Hat was farewelled at the Boyd Chapel of the Springvale Botanical Cemetery. A standing room only crowd witnessed a very moving ceremony to celebrate the life of former WO1 Andrew Zsolt. Andrew lost his battle with lung cancer on Sunday, 3 April.
Detailed below is Andrew’s service record; as can be seen he served exactly 20 years and except for trips to South Vietnam and Belgium / West Germany, he served solely in Victoria.
Three eulogies were delivered: His Earlier Years by his sister Judy Dal Sasso, His Service by Peter Branagan OAM, His Family by son Tom Zsolt and the RSL service was conducted by Brian Dunn on behalf of the Waverley sub branch. The respect in which he was held and his popularity particularly at 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment where he served as RSM, was evidenced by the large Black Hat contingent in attendance. Appropriately, his coffin left the Chapel to the stirring sounds of The Radetzky March and old comrades formed a Guard of Honour as the hearse slowly drove away.
3411400 / 38366 Warrant Officer Class One Andrew ZSOLT
Service:
Australian Regular Army Special Reserve (O) 16 March 1964 to 15 September 1964
Australian Regular Army 16 September 1964 to 15 March 1984
Units:
1 Recruit Training Battalion 16 March 1964
1 Forward Delivery Troop 25 June 1964
1 Armoured Regiment 21 July 1964
C Squadron 1 Armoured Regiment 24 October 1967
Armoured Centre 11 February 1969
3 Army Recruiting Unit 08 June 1972
Armoured Centre 10 February 1975
Attached to Australian Army Staff (London) -
Overseas training on Leopard Tank, West Germany 24 August 1976 to 15 November 1976
1 Armoured Regiment 06 December 1978
Australian Staff College 04 December 1980
4/19 Prince of Wales’s Light Horse 20 January 1982
Promotions:
Lance Corporal 02 May 1966
Temporary Corporal 19 December 1966
Corporal 29 August 1967
Temporary Sergeant 07 March 1968
Sergeant 01 January 1970
Warrant Officer Class Two 10 February 1975
Warrant Officer Class One 20 January 1982
Overseas Service:
Vietnam 29 January 1968 to 11 February 1969
West Germany and Belgium 24 August 1976 to 15 November 1976
West Germany (Exercise North Star 80) 16 May 1980 to 12 June 1980
Honours and Awards:
Australian Active Service Medal 1945-75 with Clasp Vietnam
Vietnam Medal
Defence Force Service Medal
National Medal
Australian Defence Medal
Vietnamese Campaign Medal
Unit Citation for Gallantry (Coral-Balmoral)
Returned from Active Service Badge
Detailed below is Andrew’s service record; as can be seen he served exactly 20 years and except for trips to South Vietnam and Belgium / West Germany, he served solely in Victoria.
Three eulogies were delivered: His Earlier Years by his sister Judy Dal Sasso, His Service by Peter Branagan OAM, His Family by son Tom Zsolt and the RSL service was conducted by Brian Dunn on behalf of the Waverley sub branch. The respect in which he was held and his popularity particularly at 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment where he served as RSM, was evidenced by the large Black Hat contingent in attendance. Appropriately, his coffin left the Chapel to the stirring sounds of The Radetzky March and old comrades formed a Guard of Honour as the hearse slowly drove away.
3411400 / 38366 Warrant Officer Class One Andrew ZSOLT
Service:
Australian Regular Army Special Reserve (O) 16 March 1964 to 15 September 1964
Australian Regular Army 16 September 1964 to 15 March 1984
Units:
1 Recruit Training Battalion 16 March 1964
1 Forward Delivery Troop 25 June 1964
1 Armoured Regiment 21 July 1964
C Squadron 1 Armoured Regiment 24 October 1967
Armoured Centre 11 February 1969
3 Army Recruiting Unit 08 June 1972
Armoured Centre 10 February 1975
Attached to Australian Army Staff (London) -
Overseas training on Leopard Tank, West Germany 24 August 1976 to 15 November 1976
1 Armoured Regiment 06 December 1978
Australian Staff College 04 December 1980
4/19 Prince of Wales’s Light Horse 20 January 1982
Promotions:
Lance Corporal 02 May 1966
Temporary Corporal 19 December 1966
Corporal 29 August 1967
Temporary Sergeant 07 March 1968
Sergeant 01 January 1970
Warrant Officer Class Two 10 February 1975
Warrant Officer Class One 20 January 1982
Overseas Service:
Vietnam 29 January 1968 to 11 February 1969
West Germany and Belgium 24 August 1976 to 15 November 1976
West Germany (Exercise North Star 80) 16 May 1980 to 12 June 1980
Honours and Awards:
Australian Active Service Medal 1945-75 with Clasp Vietnam
Vietnam Medal
Defence Force Service Medal
National Medal
Australian Defence Medal
Vietnamese Campaign Medal
Unit Citation for Gallantry (Coral-Balmoral)
Returned from Active Service Badge
36086 Ian (Wombat) Athol LAURIE - Apprentice, Armoured Corps, Military Police
We have lost one of the best, Ian WOMBAT Laurie who commenced as an Army Apprentice and progressed to the Armoured Corps then on to the Military Police. He resided up near Dargo and while walking with a mate fell down a mine shaft today and was deceased when recovered by emergency crews. 82 years young. Wombat would have turned 83 on 20/01/2022.
Follow the link below for more information
36086 Ian (Wombat) Athol LAURIE - Military Police - Veteranweb
veteranweb.asn.au/deathsnotice/36086-ian-wombat-athol-laurie-military-police/
JANUARY 24, 2022 BY RAY PAYNE
Funeral Details Ian (Wombat) LAURIE
The funeral service was held at 1400 hrs, Thursday 3 February 2022 at Stephen Baggs Funeral Directors 613 Main Street Bairnsdale Vic 3875
Ian’s family requested that all RACMP/MPAA members wear red berets and medals. Other Corps representatives as appropriate.
Follow the link below for more information
36086 Ian (Wombat) Athol LAURIE - Military Police - Veteranweb
veteranweb.asn.au/deathsnotice/36086-ian-wombat-athol-laurie-military-police/
JANUARY 24, 2022 BY RAY PAYNE
Funeral Details Ian (Wombat) LAURIE
The funeral service was held at 1400 hrs, Thursday 3 February 2022 at Stephen Baggs Funeral Directors 613 Main Street Bairnsdale Vic 3875
Ian’s family requested that all RACMP/MPAA members wear red berets and medals. Other Corps representatives as appropriate.
VALE 38317 WO1 John Alexander Carter, OAM, DCM
23 May 1945 – 23 January 2021
23 May 1945 – 23 January 2021
At approximately 1800 hours 18 August 1966, Corporal John Carter was the Crew Commander of an armoured personnel carrier of 3 Troop, First Armoured Personnel Carrier Squadron. This Troop had been given the task of carrying a relieving force of Infantry to assist D Company, 6 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment which was in heavy contact with a brigade sized enemy force. Orders were for the carrier troop to advance with two sections forward. Weather conditions at the time were extremely difficult due to a severe rain storm. When contact was made with the enemy, Corporal Carter’s vehicle was engaged by fire from a 57mm recoilless rifle, machine gun and small arms fire. The projectile from the 57mm recoilless rifle missed his vehicle and exploded against a rubber tree. Corporal Carter returned fire using his .50 calibre machine gun. The gun jammed. He then grasped the driver’s Owen Machine Carbine and without hesitation leapt onto the top of his vehicle and returned fire killing the 57 mm recoilless rifle team, a fraction after another 57 mm recoilless rifle round had been fired. This round exploded and dazed the crew and passengers. Corporal Carter still undeterred continued to fire killing five other enemy. By his actions Corporal Carter also drew attention to himself enabling the other vehicles of the troop to advance.
Through the action which was fought at a very close range, Corporal Carter showed outstanding courage, initiative and determination. His actions were an inspiration to all his comrades and contributed greatly to the success of the assault by the relief force, the heavy casualties inflicted on the enemy and immediately afterwards, the relief of D Company, 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment.
John continued his military service and attained the rank of WO1. During his service in Defence, John was also awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his outstanding contribution to the success of the 1988 Military Tattoo. I am sure that all Vietnam veterans especially those close friends of John will be saddened by his passing. John had been living in a retirement unit in Benalla for the past few years and had gradually been affected by dementia and PTSD. To daughter Jodie, son Glenn, siblings, sisters Bev, Jeanette and Gail, brother Daryl (deceased), family and friends of John may we pass on our deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences on this sad occasion of the passing of John.
John was a true warrior in any sense of the word yet suffered the effects of the Vietnam War for many years. He always felt that the Armoured Corps efforts at the Battle of Long Tan had not been fully recognised and this troubled him greatly. John is now Resting in Peace and will be sadly missed by us all. Rick Ryan
Through the action which was fought at a very close range, Corporal Carter showed outstanding courage, initiative and determination. His actions were an inspiration to all his comrades and contributed greatly to the success of the assault by the relief force, the heavy casualties inflicted on the enemy and immediately afterwards, the relief of D Company, 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment.
John continued his military service and attained the rank of WO1. During his service in Defence, John was also awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his outstanding contribution to the success of the 1988 Military Tattoo. I am sure that all Vietnam veterans especially those close friends of John will be saddened by his passing. John had been living in a retirement unit in Benalla for the past few years and had gradually been affected by dementia and PTSD. To daughter Jodie, son Glenn, siblings, sisters Bev, Jeanette and Gail, brother Daryl (deceased), family and friends of John may we pass on our deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences on this sad occasion of the passing of John.
John was a true warrior in any sense of the word yet suffered the effects of the Vietnam War for many years. He always felt that the Armoured Corps efforts at the Battle of Long Tan had not been fully recognised and this troubled him greatly. John is now Resting in Peace and will be sadly missed by us all. Rick Ryan
Vale Lorraine Toy
Wednesday 16 December 2020 saw the sudden passing of Lorraine Toy, Wife of Rob (Dinky) Toy and a Associate Member of RAACA (Vic). She is remembered by many from her attendance at RAACA events and will be sadly missed.
Gordon Hastie
1940 – 2020 (13 Feb 2020) BRETEL. — David George
David passed away peacefully at Maffra and District Hospital Maffra on Feb. 13, 2020
Aged 79 Years.
Loved father of Daniel & partner Denise and Yvette (dec). Grandpa of Ryan.
Was in Charge till the end.
A Celebration of the Life of Mr David George Bretel will be held at Geoff Rossetti Memorial Chapel, 1390 Maffra Road Sale (next to Sale Cemetery) at 1:00 PM on FRIDAY (Feb. 21, 2020)
A Private Burial will take place after refreshments.
Aged 79 Years.
Loved father of Daniel & partner Denise and Yvette (dec). Grandpa of Ryan.
Was in Charge till the end.
A Celebration of the Life of Mr David George Bretel will be held at Geoff Rossetti Memorial Chapel, 1390 Maffra Road Sale (next to Sale Cemetery) at 1:00 PM on FRIDAY (Feb. 21, 2020)
A Private Burial will take place after refreshments.
Funeral - Ivan Paul MAHER
On Thursday 26 September, one of our finest soldiers was laid to rest. Attended by family, friends and a large number of members of his Black Hat ‘family;’ former WO1 Ivan Paul Maher was honoured and remembered at a moving funeral service conducted at the Funeral Parlour of Heritage Funerals. Boronia Road, Wantirna.
V514565 VX146185 11177 WO1 Ivan Paul Maher
27 March 1928 - 19 September 2019 Ivan Maher epitomised the soldier that many of us would like to be; he was honest, forthright, approachable, set the highest standards in dress, bearing and personal conduct but at the same time was thoroughly caring of his soldiers. RIP Ivan |
Click here to download the Service History of Ivan Paul Maher (courtesy Noel McLaughlin)
VALE V514165, VX146185, 11177 WO1 Ivan Paul Maher
27 March 1928 – 19 September 2019 Ivan Paul Maher was born at Dubbo, New South Wales on 27 March 1928. On leaving school he worked on a cattle station Nanylco in the corner country of outback South Australia. Joining the CMF on Full Time Duty on 7 October 1943 at the tender age of 15 years, 195 days (utilising his older brother’s birth certificate); he then transferred to the 2nd AIF on 16 November 1943. In the following 12 months he served in various Infantry units including the 18th Infantry Battalion. In November 1944 he was posted to the 2/1st Australian Tank Attack Regiment and served with them in New Guinea. Prior to his discharge in January 1947, he was posted to the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp.
The outback beckoned him again and he returned to the corner country of South Australia this time to Mt Margaret Station. After two years and tiring of the lonely existence of a stockman, Ivan volunteered for service in the newly raised Australian Regular Army and was enlisted on 27 October 1949. Over a career spanning another 28 years, Ivan served the RAAC in a variety of roles. Included in this period were five postings to 1st Armoured Regiment, 12 National Service Training Battalion, Holsworthy, 2nd/14th Queensland Mounted Infantry, Gatton, 10 Light Horse Regiment, and 12th/16th Hunter River Lancers. He also served on detachment with 13th/18th Royal Hussars (QMO) in Malaya in 1960. Ivan experienced further overseas service with A Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment as SSM in South Vietnam in 1968. On return to Australia in January 1969, he was posted as RSM at 1st Armoured Regiment and then moved over the hill to the same appointment at the Armoured Centre in July 1971. Two years later he took up his final appointment as RSM, District Support Unit Puckapunyal. Following discharge in February 1977, Ivan, who had completed a Health Surveyors course in his final year of service, worked in that capacity for the Moorabbin City Council until retirement in 1993. |
Old comrades Russ James, Ian ‘Icky’ Smith and John Hawton shared some fond memories
of their time spent in the company of Ivan Maher. Bruce ‘Rock’ Richards, Rex Harris and John Blackwell celebrated the life of their old comrade
Representing the Corps were WO1 Peter Swinfield and CO/CI School of Armour Lt Col Luke Brady in company
with long serving ‘Black Hat Spanner’ Chris McCleod |
Vale - Charles Walsh
Charles Walsh was remembered at a service in Seymour in July 2019. Following the service, his wife Alleyne was presented with the RAACA plaque which was to have been presented to Charles in recognition of his dedication and service over the many years of his RAACA membership.
Vale - Bob Dacey
A large group of RAACA and 4/19th PWLHA members were there to farewell Bob Dacey at his funeral in June 2019
Vale – 25631 Lt Col John Williams
Born in 1931 in England, John Williams arrived in rural NSW with his family as a teenager. He joined the Citizen Military Forces, 6th NSW Mounted Rifles, in 1949 and then undertook the first regular officer training course at Portsea in 1952. As a 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal Australian Armoured Corps, 25631 John Williams was one of five officers attached to the British Army’s 1st Royal Tank Regiment in November 1952 to gain relevant experience during the Korean War.
John recalled, years after, that he arrived back at Puckapunyal in March 1953 having spent his time in Korea on Centurion tanks. This had also just become the new vehicle for Australia’s 1st Armoured Regiment. So, upon his return to Puckapunyal he found himself one of the few officers who already knew about this new equipment. A very busy time followed for this junior officer.
After a series of regimental postings, his later jobs included a staff posting at HQ in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, and as a student at Command and Staff College, Queenscliff.
John again deployed to a war zone in 1971, serving as a Major with the HQ Aust Forces Vietnam (HQAFV) in Saigon. His Republic of Vietnam awards included the Staff Service Medal 1st Class and the Armed Forces Honour Medal 1st Class.
He returned to Australia and by 1974 had left the Regular Army for family reasons. His civilian career subsequently saw him as a property developer and builder.
As a now available reservist, he attended the 1974 camp of 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment in Victoria as a supernumerary. He was later promoted and appointed to command the Regiment from June 1975-1978.
These years saw large armoured reconnaissance exercises over vast distances in the Mallee desert scrub of north-west Victoria. They were followed by the times of government cutbacks, so John Williams turned to major ceremonial activities as a substitute, to boost morale and raise the public profile of the Regiment. The following year, we were back to the desert exercises, but that parade experience was again put to good use in the 1977 Queen’s Silver Jubilee military parade in Melbourne. The Regiment’s contribution was a full APC Troop of 16 x M113A1s.
Upon his (final) military retirement, John Williams continued to show a keen interest in the RAAC and particularly in 4/19 PWLH as a Trustee. Even this year, at the age of 86, he participated in a special Regimental Trustees tradition when he attended the Welcome Dinner for the incoming CO of 4/19 PWLH - LTCOL John Pearse.
Photo below Feb 2018 - LTCOL John Williams is seated front left
John recalled, years after, that he arrived back at Puckapunyal in March 1953 having spent his time in Korea on Centurion tanks. This had also just become the new vehicle for Australia’s 1st Armoured Regiment. So, upon his return to Puckapunyal he found himself one of the few officers who already knew about this new equipment. A very busy time followed for this junior officer.
After a series of regimental postings, his later jobs included a staff posting at HQ in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, and as a student at Command and Staff College, Queenscliff.
John again deployed to a war zone in 1971, serving as a Major with the HQ Aust Forces Vietnam (HQAFV) in Saigon. His Republic of Vietnam awards included the Staff Service Medal 1st Class and the Armed Forces Honour Medal 1st Class.
He returned to Australia and by 1974 had left the Regular Army for family reasons. His civilian career subsequently saw him as a property developer and builder.
As a now available reservist, he attended the 1974 camp of 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment in Victoria as a supernumerary. He was later promoted and appointed to command the Regiment from June 1975-1978.
These years saw large armoured reconnaissance exercises over vast distances in the Mallee desert scrub of north-west Victoria. They were followed by the times of government cutbacks, so John Williams turned to major ceremonial activities as a substitute, to boost morale and raise the public profile of the Regiment. The following year, we were back to the desert exercises, but that parade experience was again put to good use in the 1977 Queen’s Silver Jubilee military parade in Melbourne. The Regiment’s contribution was a full APC Troop of 16 x M113A1s.
Upon his (final) military retirement, John Williams continued to show a keen interest in the RAAC and particularly in 4/19 PWLH as a Trustee. Even this year, at the age of 86, he participated in a special Regimental Trustees tradition when he attended the Welcome Dinner for the incoming CO of 4/19 PWLH - LTCOL John Pearse.
Photo below Feb 2018 - LTCOL John Williams is seated front left
The following are former members of the RAAC & RAACA who have passed away in recent times as remembered in the minutes of the RAACA (Vic) committee meetings since August 2016. The dates generally relate to the committee meeting date, rather than the date of passing of the member.
Jan 2024 Bill Maynard
Dec 2023 Gavin Vigar
May 2023 Rodney Westgarth
Oct 2022 Terry Bullock
Aug 2022 Lionel Bailey
June 2022 Barry Davidson
Apr 2022 Andy Zsolt
Jan 2022 Ian "Wombat" Laurie
Aug 2021 Lewis Postlethwaite
Dec 2020 Lorraine Toy - Passed away suddenly 16 Dec 2020
Nov 2020 John Billings - Passed away on 9 Nov 2020
Jul 2020 Gordon Hastie - Passed away in Jun 2020
Apr 2020 Brian T Lewis (From Wantirna - passed away Jan 2020)
Feb 2020 Col John Haynes AM (Retd)
David Bretel APD
Leon Kelly
Gary Thompson
Sep 2019 Charles Walsh
Maj (Retd) Robert Barry Wade MBE
WO1 Ivan Paul Maher
Robyn Gibson
Jul 2019 Colin Filtness
Bob Dacey
AGM Feb 2019 Max D'Atri
Neil Russell
Francis Russell
William Heyward
Mar 2019 Len Allen
Feb 2019 Kenneth Cameron McPherson
Dec 2018 John Williams
Nov 2018 Len Gibbs
Jim Allard
Oct 2018 Mitch (Mother) Anderson
Sep 2018 John (Fitzy) Fitzpatrick
Lewis Henry (Logga) Wood
Aug 2018 David (Mouse) Morgan
Jul 2018 Frank Beattie
May 2018 John Bauerle
John Purcell
Feb 2018 George Slade
Dec 2017 Max Robertson
Nov 2017 Don Weedon
Jul 2017 Ron Jacobs
Brian (Lucky) Leader
Jun 2017 Douglas Spinney
May 2017 John Crossman
Sep 2016 Tom Murphy
Aug 2016 James Squires
Dec 2023 Gavin Vigar
May 2023 Rodney Westgarth
Oct 2022 Terry Bullock
Aug 2022 Lionel Bailey
June 2022 Barry Davidson
Apr 2022 Andy Zsolt
Jan 2022 Ian "Wombat" Laurie
Aug 2021 Lewis Postlethwaite
Dec 2020 Lorraine Toy - Passed away suddenly 16 Dec 2020
Nov 2020 John Billings - Passed away on 9 Nov 2020
Jul 2020 Gordon Hastie - Passed away in Jun 2020
Apr 2020 Brian T Lewis (From Wantirna - passed away Jan 2020)
Feb 2020 Col John Haynes AM (Retd)
David Bretel APD
Leon Kelly
Gary Thompson
Sep 2019 Charles Walsh
Maj (Retd) Robert Barry Wade MBE
WO1 Ivan Paul Maher
Robyn Gibson
Jul 2019 Colin Filtness
Bob Dacey
AGM Feb 2019 Max D'Atri
Neil Russell
Francis Russell
William Heyward
Mar 2019 Len Allen
Feb 2019 Kenneth Cameron McPherson
Dec 2018 John Williams
Nov 2018 Len Gibbs
Jim Allard
Oct 2018 Mitch (Mother) Anderson
Sep 2018 John (Fitzy) Fitzpatrick
Lewis Henry (Logga) Wood
Aug 2018 David (Mouse) Morgan
Jul 2018 Frank Beattie
May 2018 John Bauerle
John Purcell
Feb 2018 George Slade
Dec 2017 Max Robertson
Nov 2017 Don Weedon
Jul 2017 Ron Jacobs
Brian (Lucky) Leader
Jun 2017 Douglas Spinney
May 2017 John Crossman
Sep 2016 Tom Murphy
Aug 2016 James Squires
Peter Branagan OAM is finally recognised as guest speaker at the 2016 Cambrai Dinner
After many years, (and many comments), the Immediate Past President, Daryl Pinner OAM at last laid this matter to rest with the presentation of an RAACA tie at the final committee meeting of 2019. Now maybe we can move onto other things, like what are we going to send Peter up about next!
Many years of service with these two, and still going strong with Daryl's ongoing involvement in Legacy and the Shrine and Peter to RAACA and the RSL. Well done to both of them.
Many years of service with these two, and still going strong with Daryl's ongoing involvement in Legacy and the Shrine and Peter to RAACA and the RSL. Well done to both of them.
Daryl Pinner OAM
Following the memorial service for the 73rd birthday of the RAACA (Vic) which was held in the Sanctuary, we moved down into the Western Annex for the traditional sumptuous afternoon tea where a surprise awaited IPP Daryl Pinner, OAM and his wife Frances.
Daryl was presented with a Peter Wren Memorial Certificate of Merit and Frances a sheath of flowers. He was the final member of the former long serving executive committee to be formally recognised in the past three months.
Daryl was presented with a Peter Wren Memorial Certificate of Merit and Frances a sheath of flowers. He was the final member of the former long serving executive committee to be formally recognised in the past three months.
Photo above, Frances and Daryl Pinner with President Peter Branagan
Daryl Pinner, OAM joined the association in 1968 at a time when it was floundering and threatening to fold.
By the judicious use of his imposing size, great enthusiasm and organising ability, he was able to, with the assistance of several other like-minded individuals; breathe new life into the Victorian Branch. In 1977 he was elected to his first term as President and with only a couple of short breaks; served in this role until 2015. His early service was recognised with the awarding of Honorary Life Membership at the Cambrai Dinner in 1984. On Australia Day 2003 he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to veterans both in the RAACA and Legacy. Along with his wife Frances, he has given unstintingly of his time and energy to improve the lot of our veterans. A huge well done to you both.
By the judicious use of his imposing size, great enthusiasm and organising ability, he was able to, with the assistance of several other like-minded individuals; breathe new life into the Victorian Branch. In 1977 he was elected to his first term as President and with only a couple of short breaks; served in this role until 2015. His early service was recognised with the awarding of Honorary Life Membership at the Cambrai Dinner in 1984. On Australia Day 2003 he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to veterans both in the RAACA and Legacy. Along with his wife Frances, he has given unstintingly of his time and energy to improve the lot of our veterans. A huge well done to you both.
Godfrey (Camel) Camenzuli
Former long serving Treasurer/Membership Officer Godfrey Camenzuli was deeply touched when the President surprised him at the kid’s Christmas party at the Diamond Valley Miniature Railway on Sunday, 16 December 2018 with the presentation of a Peter Wren Memorial Certificate of Merit. He served as Treasurer - Membership Officer from 1985-2002 and 2007-2015. In his comments the President stated that ‘Camel’ epitomised the meaning of service and dedication to a cause and it was entirely appropriate to make the presentation in the presence of his family and many friends.
‘Camel’ had previously been honoured for his dedicated service with a presentation of Honorary Life Membership of the Association at the Cambrai Dinner in November, 1996.
‘Camel’ had previously been honoured for his dedicated service with a presentation of Honorary Life Membership of the Association at the Cambrai Dinner in November, 1996.
John Paterson
Former Secretary Honoured With Peter Wren Memorial Certificate of Merit
John Paterson, who coincidentally took over the role of acting Secretary in 1984 when the incumbent – Peter Wren was struck down with a fatal heart attack; has been awarded the RAACA Certificate of Merit named in honour of his predecessor. At the AGM in February 1985, John was formally appointed as Secretary: a post he held continuously until his retirement due to ill health at the AGM in February 2017.
In concert with fellow long serving executive members Daryl Pinner and Godfrey Camenzuli; John served some 32 years in the role that is the lynchpin of any organisation. John’s sterling efforts were also recognised at the Cambrai Dinner in November 1996 when he was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the Association by then Director of Armour - Colonel Gordon Jones, AM.
On Friday 23 November 2018, President Peter Branagan and committee members Ian Smith, Andrew Clark and Rod Westgarth visited ‘Patto’ and his wife Deidre at their new home in Craigieburn to make the presentation
John Paterson, who coincidentally took over the role of acting Secretary in 1984 when the incumbent – Peter Wren was struck down with a fatal heart attack; has been awarded the RAACA Certificate of Merit named in honour of his predecessor. At the AGM in February 1985, John was formally appointed as Secretary: a post he held continuously until his retirement due to ill health at the AGM in February 2017.
In concert with fellow long serving executive members Daryl Pinner and Godfrey Camenzuli; John served some 32 years in the role that is the lynchpin of any organisation. John’s sterling efforts were also recognised at the Cambrai Dinner in November 1996 when he was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the Association by then Director of Armour - Colonel Gordon Jones, AM.
On Friday 23 November 2018, President Peter Branagan and committee members Ian Smith, Andrew Clark and Rod Westgarth visited ‘Patto’ and his wife Deidre at their new home in Craigieburn to make the presentation
Joan Finlayson
A True Benefactor Honoured at Montmorency
On Saturday, 18 May 2019 at the Montmorency RSL; due recognition was given for over 30 years of generosity and philanthropy to the RAACA Victorian Branch and the Australian Army Tank Museum. The award of Honorary Life Membership of the RAACA was bestowed upon Mrs Joan Finlayson.
Joan and her late husband Arch, a veteran of the World War II 2/8th Armoured Regiment, have very generously supported the Association and the Army Tank Museum and in the early days Arch would spend time at the Museum exercising his carpentry skills. In March 2010, Joan established the Arch Finlayson Memorial Scholarship for 1st year apprentices in his memory. Six scholarships have now been awarded.
On Saturday, 18 May 2019 at the Montmorency RSL; due recognition was given for over 30 years of generosity and philanthropy to the RAACA Victorian Branch and the Australian Army Tank Museum. The award of Honorary Life Membership of the RAACA was bestowed upon Mrs Joan Finlayson.
Joan and her late husband Arch, a veteran of the World War II 2/8th Armoured Regiment, have very generously supported the Association and the Army Tank Museum and in the early days Arch would spend time at the Museum exercising his carpentry skills. In March 2010, Joan established the Arch Finlayson Memorial Scholarship for 1st year apprentices in his memory. Six scholarships have now been awarded.
Patron Brigadier Ted Acutt had the honour of pinning a Honorary Life Member’s badge on Joan at Montmorency RSL on Sunday 18 May. Watching on is secretary Peter Axton. President Peter Branagan recounted the Finlayson family’s contribution to the RAACA whilst RAAC Historian Major John Baines (Retd) spoke passionately about their generous support to the Army Tank Museum.
The following members and guests were in attendance: Peter and Elizabeth Branagan, Ted Acutt and Vanessa Horton, Godfrey Camenzuli and Kerry Marshall, Peter and Robyn Axton, Ian Smith, Rob and Lorraine Toy, John Baines, David and Joan Finlayson.
Apologies were received from Rod and Sharon Westgarth who were in Adelaide for the birth of their first grand child. Heartiest congratulations to Lauren and Jimmy Peile on the safe arrival of a brand new Trooper – Tex Leo Peile was born on Sunday evening 19 May.
Also an apology were IPP Daryl Pinner, wife Frances and Graham’Diesel’ Perkins.
The following members and guests were in attendance: Peter and Elizabeth Branagan, Ted Acutt and Vanessa Horton, Godfrey Camenzuli and Kerry Marshall, Peter and Robyn Axton, Ian Smith, Rob and Lorraine Toy, John Baines, David and Joan Finlayson.
Apologies were received from Rod and Sharon Westgarth who were in Adelaide for the birth of their first grand child. Heartiest congratulations to Lauren and Jimmy Peile on the safe arrival of a brand new Trooper – Tex Leo Peile was born on Sunday evening 19 May.
Also an apology were IPP Daryl Pinner, wife Frances and Graham’Diesel’ Perkins.
Honorary Life Membership - Recognising those who were awarded before
Click on the link below to open a roll of Honorary Life Memberships awarded since the foundation of the
RAACA (Victorian Branch)
RAACA (Victorian Branch)
Fund raiser for Veteran's Health Week
One of our Victorian Branch members, Niall WARING, completed a walk to raise funds for Veteran's Health Week. While the funds raised do not directly assist RAACA Vic Members, they do assist Australian Defence force Veterans in our Community.
The walk is undertaken by individuals who are in turn sponsored by donations from various avenues. The trek started on the 24th of October, the first day of Veteran’s Health Week, and concluded on the 23rd of November. It could be at any location and in segments of any distance the walker chooses but is to be a total distance of 96km, which equates to the full length of the Kokoda Trail.
The challenge was broken into 5 legs. The start and finish of each leg corresponds with the key battle locations that tell the story of this historic WW2 campaign.
The sponsored walkers progress could be followed on Face Book at Nige War Ing, (Niall WARING) a virtual challenge for Bravery Trust, supporting our Veterans. (Bravery Trust provides emergency financial relief to serving & ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force who have a serious injury or illness as a result of their service)
RAACA (Vic) donated $100 towards Niall's efforts helping him raise $1050 towards the Challenge total of $77,500, a magnificent effort by all who participated. Niall came in 22nd in a field of 450 participants. Well done to all involved.
The walk is undertaken by individuals who are in turn sponsored by donations from various avenues. The trek started on the 24th of October, the first day of Veteran’s Health Week, and concluded on the 23rd of November. It could be at any location and in segments of any distance the walker chooses but is to be a total distance of 96km, which equates to the full length of the Kokoda Trail.
The challenge was broken into 5 legs. The start and finish of each leg corresponds with the key battle locations that tell the story of this historic WW2 campaign.
The sponsored walkers progress could be followed on Face Book at Nige War Ing, (Niall WARING) a virtual challenge for Bravery Trust, supporting our Veterans. (Bravery Trust provides emergency financial relief to serving & ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force who have a serious injury or illness as a result of their service)
RAACA (Vic) donated $100 towards Niall's efforts helping him raise $1050 towards the Challenge total of $77,500, a magnificent effort by all who participated. Niall came in 22nd in a field of 450 participants. Well done to all involved.
Ray DeVere’s cavalry book is available for purchase
Here is your opportunity to grab a definitive story about the life of a cavalry troop in Vietnam at a very reasonable price. It is available from Amazon Australia in either print or ebook format. For your convenience the link is; https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B08MWY78XZ/ref=cbw_direct_from_1
There have been many people who have helped me in one way or another since I started writing this book all those years ago but I do want to acknowledge the great work done by my editor Sonya Heaney, who also did the publishing as well. A very special thanks to Dennis Krake who did the art work for the cover, 3 Troopers will immediately recognise the symbolism; so for the others, superimposed on a map of the local area is an actual photo of my vehicle beside a bamboo patch, below my vehicle is the troop shoulder patch worn on our flying suits. I did not mention Dennis in the acknowledgment section of the book and I beg his forgiveness for this oversight.
Unfortunately the planned reunion for 2021 has been cancelled due to concerns about Covid so it will be some time before members of 3 Troop will have the opportunity to gather in any significant numbers. I will take advantage of this email to wish all 3 Troopers the very best for Christmas and the New year. Let’s hope 2021 is better than 2020.
Take care
Ray De Vere
VALE Ray DeVere Sadly Ray DeVere passed away on Sunday 29 Jan 2023
There have been many people who have helped me in one way or another since I started writing this book all those years ago but I do want to acknowledge the great work done by my editor Sonya Heaney, who also did the publishing as well. A very special thanks to Dennis Krake who did the art work for the cover, 3 Troopers will immediately recognise the symbolism; so for the others, superimposed on a map of the local area is an actual photo of my vehicle beside a bamboo patch, below my vehicle is the troop shoulder patch worn on our flying suits. I did not mention Dennis in the acknowledgment section of the book and I beg his forgiveness for this oversight.
Unfortunately the planned reunion for 2021 has been cancelled due to concerns about Covid so it will be some time before members of 3 Troop will have the opportunity to gather in any significant numbers. I will take advantage of this email to wish all 3 Troopers the very best for Christmas and the New year. Let’s hope 2021 is better than 2020.
Take care
Ray De Vere
VALE Ray DeVere Sadly Ray DeVere passed away on Sunday 29 Jan 2023
The Teddy Sheean Victoria Cross
The RAAC Connection - A letter from the secretary of the 1st Armoured Regiment Association to its members
Good Afternoon All Association Members,
Most of us would be unaware that Noel McLaughlin, Chairman of the RAAC Corporation, played a significant role in advocating for the posthumous award of the Victoria Cross to be made to Ordinary Seaman Teddy Sheean. This was undertaken in support of a former RAAC member, WO2 Grant Sheean (Ret'd) who is Teddy Sheean's nephew.
On 1 December 1942 HMAS Armidale, sailing to Betano, Timor, was attacked by 13 Japanese aircraft and struck by two torpedoes and a bomb. After helping to free a life-raft, Teddy turned back and proceeded to the aft Oerlikon 20 mm cannon and was wounded twice on the way to his action station. He strapped himself into the gun and began to fire on the attacking aircraft to protect those in the water. He shot down one bomber and was killed as the ship sunk. Many of the 41 survivors credited their lives to Sheean and he was posthumously Mentioned in Despatches.
There have been a number attempts and enquiries for over 30 years for Teddy to be awarded the VC. This latest attempt has been successful and it is to Noel's credit that he advocated on behalf of a fellow Black Hat in this matter whom he has known very well since 1968.
Members should click on the following link (URL) to access various messages of congratulation forwarded to Noel from a number of people including fellow ADSO members such as the National Secretary of the Naval Association, the Chairman of the Australian SAS Association, Maj Gen Mike Krause, Maj Gen Roger Powell, National Chairman of the Air Force Association. National Chairman of the RAR Corporation, WO1 Derek Simpson - RAAC Corps RSM, and a number of politicians. The emails also demonstrates the very good relations the Corporation enjoys with its fellow ADSO members.
https://mcusercontent.com/af0e4d24e39311809db16c3a3/files/c6035901-94df-41b5-b991-0fb6a01da9a2/Teddy_Sheen_Victoria_Cross.01.pdf
The Association wishes to commend Noel on his advocacy and his help to the Sheean family in general, and in particular to a former member of the Corps, Grant Sheean who served in the RAAC for 42 years.
The RAAC Corporation is the umbrella organisation representing the interests of its Member Associations and the interests of serving members of the RAAC. Member Association Delegates comprise the Executive Council.
Russ James
Secretary
1st Armoured Regiment Association
Most of us would be unaware that Noel McLaughlin, Chairman of the RAAC Corporation, played a significant role in advocating for the posthumous award of the Victoria Cross to be made to Ordinary Seaman Teddy Sheean. This was undertaken in support of a former RAAC member, WO2 Grant Sheean (Ret'd) who is Teddy Sheean's nephew.
On 1 December 1942 HMAS Armidale, sailing to Betano, Timor, was attacked by 13 Japanese aircraft and struck by two torpedoes and a bomb. After helping to free a life-raft, Teddy turned back and proceeded to the aft Oerlikon 20 mm cannon and was wounded twice on the way to his action station. He strapped himself into the gun and began to fire on the attacking aircraft to protect those in the water. He shot down one bomber and was killed as the ship sunk. Many of the 41 survivors credited their lives to Sheean and he was posthumously Mentioned in Despatches.
There have been a number attempts and enquiries for over 30 years for Teddy to be awarded the VC. This latest attempt has been successful and it is to Noel's credit that he advocated on behalf of a fellow Black Hat in this matter whom he has known very well since 1968.
Members should click on the following link (URL) to access various messages of congratulation forwarded to Noel from a number of people including fellow ADSO members such as the National Secretary of the Naval Association, the Chairman of the Australian SAS Association, Maj Gen Mike Krause, Maj Gen Roger Powell, National Chairman of the Air Force Association. National Chairman of the RAR Corporation, WO1 Derek Simpson - RAAC Corps RSM, and a number of politicians. The emails also demonstrates the very good relations the Corporation enjoys with its fellow ADSO members.
https://mcusercontent.com/af0e4d24e39311809db16c3a3/files/c6035901-94df-41b5-b991-0fb6a01da9a2/Teddy_Sheen_Victoria_Cross.01.pdf
The Association wishes to commend Noel on his advocacy and his help to the Sheean family in general, and in particular to a former member of the Corps, Grant Sheean who served in the RAAC for 42 years.
The RAAC Corporation is the umbrella organisation representing the interests of its Member Associations and the interests of serving members of the RAAC. Member Association Delegates comprise the Executive Council.
Russ James
Secretary
1st Armoured Regiment Association