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Vale: Les 'Ming' McCabe

Les Tull has sadly reported that 'Ming' passed away this morning Thurs 23rd August 07 after a recent heart problem. He was 72. His funeral is being planned for this coming Thursday 30th August. Anyone requiring further details should contact Les Tull on (02)6294 6274.

Update: Ming McCabe's funeral will be held at 1.30pm Thurs 30th AUG 2007 at Norwood Crematorium, Mitchell ACT.

Vale: Maurie 'Moose' Jeff

Sad to report that Maurie "Moose" Jeff passed away Tues 31/7/07 after a long battle with cancer. His funeral is at  Rankins Funeral Home, Cowper St Warrawong (near Woolongong NSW) at 11am Monday 6th AUG 2007. Further details from Rankins (02)42761000.

Vale: Geoff 'Digga' Coutts

Geoff passed away last Wednesday 25th July 2007 of a heart attack. His Funeral Service will be at Hastings RSL on Wednesday 1.8.07 at 1030. 

The 2 photos on the index page are a shot of Digga during his PO's course approx 1963 and the other photo was taken at Cerberus during the dedication of the band memorial in 1996 (National Reunion). Geoff retired from the Navy as a Warrant Officer Musician

Vale: Ron 'Petals' Carkeet

It is my sad duty to inform you that Ron "Petals" Carkeet lost his long battle with cancer last night, he passed away at 9.05pm. No funeral arrangements are available at the moment but as soon as known will be published. Brenda his wife can be contacted on 02 4389 4229 and the address is 26 George Hely Crescent, KILLARNEY VALE NSW 2261. Our thoughts are with Brenda and Family. 

Regards Ralph Daines

Ron Carkeet (Funeral Arrangements)

The funeral arrangements for Ron will be on Tuesday 1st May 2007 at Palmdale Crematorium, Palmdale Road, Ourimbah, in the Hillside Chapel at 12.30pm.

Vale: Phil 'Hoppy' Hopkins

Glenn Hopkins had advised that his dad Phil Hopkins passed away earlier today (Thursday 21st September 2006).

Funeral Details as follws: Tuesday 26th Sept. at 1400 hrs,Bunurong Memorial Park,790 Frankston/Dandenong Road,Dandenong South.

John Connelly will be conducting the Service in the Chapel and this will be followed by the Burial Service.

Re Hoppy:

I remember him as a bloke who 'took in strays' IE Junior Musicians who he had time for, and he and Mavis always had an open house policy. When any ex was visiting Frankston over the years, they always organised a 'barby' at their place, and were a great couple.I spoke with Phil 2 weeks before he died and he sounded very weak, but was a fighter because he wasn't expected to live much longer when he was diagnosed with cancer back in 2004, and his grand-kids were told he may not make Christmas that year (according to his son). Phil kept up a routine of going down to the local most afternoons for a couple of beers and a yarn with his mates. I'm sure that is what kept him going. Phil kept up his skills on trombone, and until he became just too ill to play, was a member of the Frankston Symphony Orchestra and I believe he played in the Frankston Brass Band for some time.

Vale a real good bloke.

Cheers Jim

Vale: Don 'Zonk' Lowry

Phil Hopkins advised 2nd November 2005 that Don 'Zonk' Lowry passed away (Tuesday 1st November).

'Zonk' was found in his room at the RSL Retirement Village Frankston sitting in front of the TV with a glass of sherry by his side having watched the Melbourne Cup. He wasn't a member of the Association, yet did attend occasional Victorian get-togethers in the Frankston area. Phil said he was 81.He transferred from the Royal Marines and was a 2nd WW Veteran, playing french horn.

Vale: Norm Gullick

NORMAN CLIVE GULLICK

    Norm was born at Homebush NSW on 10/9/27 and educated at Parramatta High School. He learnt violin at age 9 from a local teacher, and then trombone from age 15 at the Sydney Conservatorium. His father was a semi-professional musician who played piano and double bass. Norm’s mother was a singer. His first experience with music within a group was when he played violin in a community orchestra before joining the Navy. As this was wartime, Norm served in the National Emergency Service and Naval Auxillary Patrol before being accepted into the RAN as a Cook. Not long after, he changed to the Band Branch, and during a 31 year career, served in HMA Ships Cerberus, Penguin, Shropshire, Australia, Sydney, Vengeance, Melbourne, Stalwart, Albatross, and the Royal Marines SOM, Deal, Kent. His qualifications attained included the Royal Marines Bandmaster Certificate, and Licentiate Royal Academy of Music London (Military Bandmastership). Following several courses after joining the RAN, Norm was promoted Band Corporal 1951, Bandmaster 1955, Chief Bandmaster 1959, SBLT 1964, LEUT 1966 and LCDR in 1975. He served in the British Commonwealth Occupation Force, Japan 1946-1947 (under Chief Bandmaster George Hooker), the Malay Penninsular 1965 and Far East Strategic Reserve 1956-1958. The highlights of his Navy career included the Coronation Cruise 1953, the Royal Tour 1954 and the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games. Whilst serving in Penguin, 1966, he had the honour to be Bandmaster for the Ceremonial arrival and departure of USA President Johnson during his Australian tour. He was afforded the honour of personally meeting with the American President. Following his Naval service which ended in 1976, Norm was employed as a lecturer at the University of Western Sydney and as a school teacher at both Government and Private schools. On retirement from these positions, he continued as a part-time music teacher, and Musical Director of the NSW Ambulance Band. He also assisted with other community bands following his Naval Service.

(Jim Hawkins: I found Norm to be one of the most genuine people I have ever met. He was always available to check out stories relating to the RAN Band, and he was a wealth of knowledge. Nothing was too much trouble where the Association was concerned, and Norm was happy to represent us at a moment’s notice until Margaret became ill, and he was forced to resign as President. I had many a long chat with him over the years, and he will be sadly missed. Sadly, my last conversation was on Tuesday 13th September, and I could tell how weak he was, but Norm still forced himself to answer my phone call. The following day he was admitted to hospital, too weak to remain at home.........JH)

Following the death of Patron Norm Gullick, several people sent messages of sorrow.

Some of the comments included: 

Jim McDonough - Arrived home at 9.30pm and received your phone message and have just read the e-mails. Nancye and I were away at Tewantin visiting her sister who is ill. I am shattered, and will appreciate any information during the next few days. Norm was respected and held in the highest regards by all who served with him.

Vic Knowles - Usually I would say ‘G’Day Jim’ but not today. Today is a sad day and many people who have stood under the shade of that magnificent man will be saddened. I never worked a great deal with Norm ‘in the job’ but, in the little I did, I found him to be a gentleman among men. A musician of reknown, a leader I was priviledged to serve under, a fellow enjoyer, and later when we were Ambulance Muso’s together, a fellow dedicated musician; most of all he was a friend and a mate. A ‘dedicated musician’ and a true humanitarian, Norm loved his music - preferably the old German marches if I remember correctly - and he always considered the welfare of his subordinates as being of the utmost importance. Since leaving the service and forming a band on the Gold Coast Hinterland, I have musicians who travel with the seasons from Sydney to work with us, and when they returned to Sydney they would look forward to playing in Norm’s Ambulance Band. They too have a great respect for a wonderful man

With me....We will all remember Norm Gullick.

Vic Knowles

Vale: Geoff  Simm

Geoff passed away on Saturday 18/6 following a long battle with cancer. Geoff hadn't told former mates of his medical problems, and his wife told me (Jim Hawkins) that the funeral was for 'close family only'. His mother Dora is still alive aged 93.

Perth Anzac Day 2005

For an 'in between' Anzac Day compared to our bi-ennial National Reunions, Perth was a very pleasant experience.

The Committee chaired by Patron Bill Farrell AM was, Phil Ingram, Fred Brewer, Graham Worth and Arthur Timms, and they arranged a full programme starting with a 'Meet 'n Greet' on the Friday at Anzac House, Perth. Saturday saw the President and Secretary at Subiaco Oval witness Fremantle defeat Carlton in an AFL match, with pre-match entertainment being 'A Tribute To Our Diggers'. Our own CPOMUSN Ted Tait played the Last Post and (Navy) Reveille to 39,500 people. An official dinner was held on the Saturday evening back at Anzac House with one invited guest being Mr Bill Gaynor OAM, State President of the RSL who welcomed everyone and thanked them for what they were going to do on Monday (Anzac Day)....complete the march twice. The groans from the audience indicated that most were not aware of what our parade band had been 'volunteered' for! Sunday was rehearsal day at Irwin Barracks, Karrakatta, where the Navy and Army Reserve Bands have a magnificent set-up. We all enjoyed a catered spit-roast lunch and copious quantities of the amber fluid supplied from 'Worthy's Bar' along with entertainment from the Ex's Jazz Band. Errol Hatch was on kit, Jim H. keyboard, Bill James fl/picc, John Connelly bass, Kipper Kearslay trom and TC Hunt, trumpet. Anzac Day was fine and mild when we met to lead a huge Naval Contingent along the parade route. The Naval Reserve Band led the Colours plus another large Naval Contingent, and all agreed that the crowds were the largest we have had witness any of our band performances around Australia. Once we had completed our duties, it was on to the bus and out to Irwin Barracks again where Phil Ingram had the bar-b-que flashed up with sausages and onions sizzling, and the steaks ready to go. The other bands also had catering and bar facilities so it was a huge crowd who gathered for the remainder of the day. One unusual aspect was when Fred Brewer introduced international harp player Bronwyn Wallace who, in the band auditorium, gave a performance on Fred's Celtic Harp which was being raffled, then gave a mini-concert on her full size harp. The approx 100 people gave her a standing ovation. While Bronwyn was playing, accompanyment could be heard coming from outside when one of the pipers decided to march around the quadrangle playing 'Scotland The Brave'. Bronwyn took it with good spirit! Too soon it was all over for another year. Some went back to Anzac House, then on to a favourite watering hole, the Criterian Hotel. Congratulations Bill and Committee. You, and your Ladies did a sterling job!

See you all in Canberra for Anzac 06.

Jim Hawkins

National Secretary

LOOKING FOR 1956 BANDSMEN

   On November 22nd 1956 the Opening Ceremony of the Melbourne Olympic Games began when the Massed Bands of the RAN marched on to the Melbourne Cricket Ground. They were followed by the Massed Bands of the Australian Army, with the Central Band of the RAAF already in position on stage to accompany the massed choirs. It will be 50 years since this spectacular day in less than 2 years, and a Tri-Service committee of former Bandsmen has been formed to organise a Golden Jubilee Reunion in Melbourne between 24-26 NOV 2006.Of the more than 400 Bandsmen who took part, organisers have located only 50. If you, or someone you know took part in any of these bands, the committee would like to hear from you.

   The weekend will consist of a 'Meet 'n Greet' on Friday 24th, a visit to the MCG on the Saturday morning, a concert by Service Bands in the afternoon, and an official dinner that evening. The reunion will conclude with a farewell brunch on Sunday 26 NOV. It is hoped to hold most functions at Simpson Barracks, Macleod (to be confirmed).

Please contact: The Co-ordinator Golden Jubilee Olympic Bands Committee

80 Ballina Rd

Goonellabah 2480

TEL (02)6625 2689 (please phone between 12.30pm and 6.30pm)

e-mail hawkinsj@internode.on.net

Vale: Passing Away of  Wayne Macca" McNally:

Sad to report the death of member Wayne 'Macca' McNally (brother of Blue). Macca died at Lismore Base Hospital yesterday 21/12/04. He had suffered from throat cancer for some time. Macca played cornet and was in the RAN Band for a short while. He played in the Ballina Shire Band for many years and there will be a tribute by the band at his funeral on Wednesday 29/12 at the Ballina Salvation Army Citadel.

I had a few beers with him early November at the Ballina Bowling Club.

Macca was in his early 40's.

Vale: Passing Away of  Danny Fisher:

J. J. "Melody" Pleass phoned me today to report the death of Danny Fisher (trumpet) who had been ill for some time. Danny passed away Saturday night 6/11/04.I had spoken with his son Ross on Friday 5/11 and Ross told me that Danny had been in hospital for some weeks, and medical staff had decided he needed continuing care, so they were negotiating for him to enter the nursing home where his wife Jean had died not that long ago.As reported in our FEB 03 newsletter, Danny joined the Royal Marines as a Band Boy in 1937, saw service during WW2, transferred to the Royal Australian Navy in 1953, and paid off in the early 1970's. He was a great bloke, and thoroughly enjoyed attending the 2002 National Reunion in Brisbane to meet up with many of his shipmates for the last time.

Vale Danny Fisher RM/RAN.

Jim Hawkins

Secretary

RAN Band Association

Vale: Passing Away of "Shorty" Butler:

  TC Hunt reports that the NSW RSL magazine 'Reveille' listed in their deceased column, ABMUSN R Butler. Trevor tells me that this is 'Shorty' Butler, tenor sax, and Ken McCallum reckons Shorty would have been only 51 or 52.

   The Webmaster John Lennon did his audition with "Shorty" at Penguin in January 1968 with Norm Gullick. I remember "Shorty" doing his audition on Mouth Organ. He joined up in April 1968 having just turned 15, I was only 14 and had to wait until the May to join. Shorty would of been 51 year old. "Shorty" went on to be a very good tenor sax player and loved to enjoy a beer with his mates. (JL)

Jim Hawkins

Patrons:

LCDR Jim McDonough RAN (Rtd)

LCDR Bill Farrell AM, RAN (Rtd)

LCDR Vic Knowles RAN (Rtd)

LCDR Phillip Anderson OAM, RAN

SUBJECT: Queen's Birthday Honours List (Back to Top)

The RAN Band Association wishes to congratulate the Director-of-Music, Navy in his recent award in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Lieutenant Commander Phillip Anderson was awarded an Order of Australia Medal "For meritorious service to the Navy and the Navy Band in the field of music". 

He follows a list of similar recipients from our Branch including:

LCDR George Hooker MBE, RAN. (deceased)

LCDR Bill Farrell AM, RAN.

Commander Ashley Greedy AM, RAN.

Warrant Officer Geoff Russell OAM, RAN.

Warrant Officer L. 'Shina' Wright OAM, RAN.

Warrant Officer Rod Coughran-Lane OAM, RAN.

Petty Officer Musician Doug Sheaff BEM, RANR. (deceased)

SOS sent out from the Father of the Late Danny Boon 

Reunion in Hobart was a  Great Success - Read Jim's Report

Draw for RAN Band CD's

The financial members draw as advertised in the Association newsletter for the two CD set by the RAN Band has been made. Those winning the CD's 'Live In Concert' and 'On The Quarterdeck' are:

Phil Jones WA, Robin Byrne NSW, John Cruise SA, Ralph Daines NSW, Roger Downton SA

Gordon Jackson WA, Ian Locke VIC, Bill Middleton WA, Ken Robertson VIC, Ted Tait WA

Congratulations all winners, and thanks to DOM-Navy for the prizes.Prizes will be posted by 5/9/03 and this notice placed in the November newsletter.

Band Divisional Officer Henry 'Nobby' Hall

Secretary Jim had a phone call from a former Band Divisional Officer Henry 'Nobby' Hall.

Nobby was at ALBATROSS for years as the Band D.O. while still carrying out the job of Fire Officer. He had an accident when he jumped from the back of a fire truck and did serious damage to his leg, which brought about his discharge from the RAN.

He was responsible for Norm Gullick applying for his Commission (confirmed by Norm) and wishes to be remembered to all Musicians he knew back then.

Ballina Weekend Critique by Secretary Jim:

One of the best weekends since we started playing as a Parade Band was experienced in Ballina from 24/4/03 until stumps around midnight, 26/4. The weekend began with a rehearsal at Ballina RSL Club from 2pm Thursday in conjunction with the Ballina Pipe Band where we rehearsed 'Amazing Grace' and 'Scotland The Brave', plus 4 marches, the National Anthem, hymns, and other numbers to be played over the weekend.That evening saw us venture into the rain to play for the Korean Veterans who were celebrating the 50th anniversary of the end of that war. The next morning, our first task was to lead the Ballina Anzac March, which also saw storm clouds and heavy rain just before our step-off at 10.40am. Given a break in the weather, we led the huge parade through Ballina, and received a drenching along the route. Same again during the service at the War Memorial, but the band did itself proud with many compliments from the crowd and ex-service community. Following a very enjoyable luncheon, the Veterans Jazz Band entertained the crowds downstairs at the RSL Club from 2pm until just after 5pm. After that, who knows what happened, because I just recall ordering a mixed grill and a bottle of good red before the bistro closed for the night. Saturday saw most people visiting the remarkable Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum, then boarding buses for the Ex-Services home, and a static display for the Diggers and Ladies. We then enjoyed a bar-b-que lunch before some members went on a bus trip to the Naval Cadet Unit, and Lennox Head plus surrounds to enjoy the scenery. At 6pm 105 people met at the Ballina Bowling Club for a seafood smorgasbord that saw some 'gannets' going round the bouy 4 or 5 times (the tucker wasn't bad) and then enjoyed the talents of the Veterans Jazz Band once again from 7.30pm until 'stumps'. I am told the Ballina Bowling Club had its biggest Saturday night trading ever. Anyone reading this brief report who is not a member of the RAN Band Association should consider joining. You would then be receiving your 44 page quarterly newsletter with a 7 page report, including photos and newspaper articles telling you who attended, and what they are doing with themselves nowadays. For the record, Ron 'Petals' Carkeet attended his 1st Association 'do' and said he would be coming along to Hobart over the Anzac weekend in 2004. Why don't you?

Jim Hawkins

Hon. Secretary.

• Peter Heels (NSW) Tuba
• David Vine (Vic) Cornet/trumpet
• Karen Rayner (NSW), fl/picc/keyboards
• Ray Fahey (TAS), bugler HMAS SHROPSHIRE WW2
• Peter Sharp (VIC), reeds
• Nick Clarke (NSW) euph
• Barry Mann (WA), trombone
• Gordon Perkins (WA), clar/violin
• Brian Mann (WA), trombone
• Des Pollock (QLD), drums
• Ron Carkeet (NSW), euph/trom
• Barry Lester (VIC), percussion
• Roger Downton (SA), clar/sax
• David O'Meara (Vic), french horn/trumpet
• Wayne McNally (NSW), cornet
• Lynton Beggs (NSW) trombone (ex-Albatross Volunteer Band)
• Steve Johns (NSW), trumpet/piano
• Nick Clark, eupho -  NSW
• Graham Muller, oboe/piano QLD
• Bob 'Cookie' Roper, trumpet/viola QLD
• Ralph Jones, trombone - SA

WELCOME BACK:

• John Ezergailis (cornet/trumpet) SA
• Doug Drysdale
• David Hardstaff
• Michael 'Fonz' Page
• Geoff Bunce
• Peter Cobb.

Sad to report the death of the late John Cumming's widow, Heather on 31/5/03.

Heather was only in her early 60's, and two advocates from the Aust. Army Band Corps Association had been working on a pension claim for her (John spent many years in the Army Band following his Navy service).

Barry Lester's Wife Lynette: 

Deepest sympathy from all members to Barry Lester who has lost his wife, Lynette.

Lynette passed away a few days after returning home from the Ballina Anzac Weekend.

Daughter Renee phoned Secretary Jim on 29/5 with the news, which came as a shock to all who attended the Ballina functions. Barry and Lynette enjoyed themselves during this weekend.

Lost Possible Ex Bandie: Robert (Bob) Wadsworth - 

It is believed he was an Narimba Apprentice  transferred to Band approx Jul 73-74. Peter Crow is trying to contact him for an apprentice reunion Peter can be contacted at 0247515383 crowie1@froggy.com.au

Royal Marines Website:

I responded to a request for information on the Royal Marines website regarding the late Phil Thorne (ex RM's, Aust. Army and Naval Reserve) and I mentioned a few Ex RM's including Danny Fisher, Zonk Lowry and Lofty Dawes. Former RM's exchange officer Tom Lambert was in contact from Adelaide to mention that one of Danny Fisher's mates from the late 1930's was alive and well and living in the UK.

I phoned Danny with Jimmy Gardner's phone number and Danny was shocked to learn that a mate he hadn't seen since leaving the UK to join the RAN in 1953 was still alive and well. He was phoning Jimmy as soon as I got off the phone! (goodness knows what time it was in England).

Tom Lambert asked me about Ex's he served with, and who was on e-mail, so I have sent him a list.

Anyone wishing to get in contact, Tom is at: overture1@bigpond.com

JH (Secretary)

In Feb 2003 a group of Veterans were talking about the recently released 'Clarke Report'. All present were concerned at its implications for all ex-servicemen & women. Keith Payne VC was in the area at the time and suggested that the only way any Government will listen to Veterans' concerns was when it 'hurts them at the ballot box', and from that meeting in the Albury/Wodonga area, the Ex-Service, Service & Veterans Party was born.

The Party will stand candidates in the Senate only, and with enough support from ex service people and their families, could make life very interesting at Federal Government level.

Arguments against such a Party include..."We should be getting all the Ex-Service organisations together speaking with one voice, such as the RSL". My response to this is: "How come such a 'single voice' has never been possible in the past? Just at local levels alone there is always bitching and in-fighting"

The majority of ex-service people are not members of any group.

They would possibly vote for a candidate who would be there to represent all ex-service people, where they wouldn't bother joining an ex-service organisation.

This means many more of these people would be represented than would be the case if only ESO's united in one voice.

For further information, have a look at the temporary web-site www.esvp.asn.au or phone Laurie Rushton (02) 6024 4368.

Jim Hawkins

Membership is a low $10 per year. Serving and Ex-Service personnel and their families are most welcome to join.

Karl Torrens - Updated: 11th April 08 Passed on by Kitty Torrens

Karl is being discharged from rehab. next Tues 15/4. The house has been modified for his wheelchair, and he can also use a walker for short periods.

I 'Kitty' had heart surgery last month which delayed Karl's discharge from hospital, and also had other medical problems which are now under control. Karl actually said "I'm going home" yesterday which was the most words he has uttered since the stroke, I 'Kitty' am hopeful he will get more speech back in the future.

Anyone passing thru the north coast NSW is very welcome to call in to 12 Andrew Place Lennox Head and say hello. It might be best to phone ahead (02)66877125 to make sure we are home.

Mal "The General" Codling  (Information Passed on by Dale Shorty Grainger - Thursday 10th January 2008)

Mal had a Major stroke between midnight and 4 am on 27 Dec 07 and was admitted to ICU Frankston Hospital.  His diagnosis from the professor at the time was bleak.  He had a Clot at the back of his brain and it was inoperable.  He was on life support and a decision had to be made, however there was an improvement and he started to breath on his own.  He was out of ICU on 4 Jan.  He has no feeling down his right side but can grab your hand and give you the bird with his left hand.  He is capable of holding a pen, he can acknowledge all around him although his vision is blurred. His mind is very active, he had a tacheometry so unable to speak.  He also has caught a chest infection so is on antibiotics.  He has had plenty of visitors which really sparks him up.  Gail is thankful for all the support and assistance thus far..

DALE C. GRANGER
WARRANT OFFICER
Military Support Officer
DCO Frankston

Jim McDonough (Information Passed on by Jim Hawkins - Wednesday 28th February 2007)

Patron, and former DOM-Navy Jim McDonough underwent major surgery on Monday 26th February 2007 at Allamanda Hospital, Southport QLD. Initially it was planned to remove a problem kidney, and perform other procedures for complications since Jim had his bladder removed 17 years ago, but once the surgeons checked out the kidney, they discovered it was not as bad as first thought, so they decided to leave the kidney in place. The surgery took over 3 hours, and when I phoned Allamanda on Tuesday Jim was resting in intensive care. His wife Nancye phoned me Wednesday to say that doctors were pleased with his progress, and she guessed he would be in hospital for 10 days. Jim contacted Jim Hawkins prior to the surgery to say that he hoped that this would allow him to attend future reunions without the complications he has been experiencing for many years.

Darryl Mansell (Information Provided by John Lennon - Webmaster) - Saturday 12th May 2007

I had a call last night from Paul Williamson to say Darryl Mansell was not well due to a stroke. I spoke to Darryl this morning at Hospital and he sounded rather groggy. He believes that he may of set some sort of record as he has had a further 5 strokes in the last 3 days. He has a blockage in the Carotid Artery. He will see the Doctor on Monday to see what can be done. I will keep you posted of any developments. His Hospital Address is: Lyell McEwin Hospital – Elizabeth - Adelaide. He can be contacted on 08 8282 0784 (this number may be incorrect as he has moved) and would be happy to receive calls from anyone. ** Note: He may not be well enough to take calls himself now (22/05/07) ** See message below.

Darryl Mansell (Information passed on by Darryl Mansell - Sunday 29th August 2007)

Darryl advised that he is finally home and is an outpatient receiving physio and and is coming along very well, walking and is feeling confident. Home phone is 08 8524 6634 - please don't hesitate to ring would love to hear from any old (and young) buddies.

Darryl Mansell (Information passed on by Darryl Mansell - Thursday 10th January 2008)

Darryl advised that he has slashed the tyres on his wheel chair and thrown his walking stick to the shit house. His physio is coming on well and is looking forward to the Adelaide reunion.

Rex Collinson (Information passed on by Jim Hawkins - Sunday 27th May 2007)

I phoned Rex Collinson today (Sunday 27/5) having spoken with him 2 weeks ago, and he sounded much better. He is trying to do too much as usual but his body is telling him to slow down. Rex walked to his front gate (quite a distance) yesterday and said his back was crook after this effort. His son and grandson are keeping the lawns in check (his house is on acreage) but he still wants to get out and 'do the chores'. The improvement in his voice was very noticeable. His appetite hasn't returned yet, but the fresh air at their Myocum property should fix that problem. His phone number for those wanting to wish him well is (02)66841853.

Update: 22nd May 2007 passed on by Jim Hawkins

Shorty is making a good recovery and is starting to feeling a lot better.

Jim Hawkins

Update: 10th January 2008 passed on by Jim Hawkins

Shorty has made further improvement and is well on the mend.

Jim Hawkins