Standown Park

If you are thinking of visiting Standown Park click Here

Let Pam and Rod know you are from 2 Transport Platoon

Standown Park as a sponsor

We are happy to let you all know that Pam and Rod, from Standown Park, have agreed to be one of our sponsors. More about this in the new year.

Neil Collard and I spent a few days there (with our wives) and enjoyed the Christmas party put on by Pam and Rod. We had some rain but that did'nt take anything away from a great time. We are going to arrange to meet there next Long Tan day. If you are interested please contact me at mohrie@bigpond.com and I will arrange a group booking. It will be a great time.

regards

Reunion Committee

2nd mail out on it's way

G'day all,

Just a short note to let you know the second mail out will be with you before Chrstmas.

regards

reunion committee

Another Motel for the reunion

There is another Motel available to you if you have not yet booked your accommodation, it is right next door to Boyds Bay Hoiday Park:

South Tweed Motor Inn
9 - 11 Minjungbal Dr
Tweed Heads south
NSW 2486

Telephone: 0755243111
The owners name is; Ross Edwards.

Thanks Vince for the info.

Standown Caravan Park

I had the pleasure of spending some time at standown Park last week and I can report it is well worth a visit when you are passing that way. Rod, being a Vietnam Veteran, made me most welcome.
Standown Park is about 24 clicks along the Tin Can Bay road out of Gympie, easy to find. Below are a few photos of the Park and the wonderful people.

Happy hour

Rod and Pam will be hosting a Christmas Party on the 17th. Dec. A few of us will be making the trip up to enjoy this fine amenity. By the way, pets are welcome. For more details on the Cristmas party contact Pam or Rod through the website below:

http://www.standown.com.au/

Two more photos from Canungra

Thanks to Vince Robinson we have two more photos from the Canungra memorial. Please note the Tac sign on the landrover. Thanks again Vince.

If you have anything of interest you want on our blog, contact Tony Mohr at mohrie@bigpond.com

Stay safe all.

Carlton Brewery Yatala

We had the opportunity to visit the Carlton Brewery at Yatala the other day, just to try out the facility for the reunion. I must say we will be treated to a great day and I think it will be a highlight of the reunion. They are a great lot of fun-loving people and we enjoyed a great lunch. I had to drive so I had to cut back on the beer intake. Not only will we have a look around (if you wish) there will be a few games with a prize at the end. I think it will be worth while.

Canungra Vietnam Memorial

A few 2 Transport Platoon members were at Canungra last weekend to the 10th. anniversary of the Vietnam Memorial. It was a special day for ex members of 8 Pet Platoon as they unveiled their Plaque. About a hundred people turned up and it was very moving. We returned to the Canungra RSL for lunch and a few drinks. All in all a great day.

Two new issues

G'day all,

I hope you are all well.

We may have an opportunity to have a short story published on Two Transport Platoon and the use of our "33" Tac sign and the history of both. However this may cost us, the amount we are not sure of the amount. Would any of you be interested in obtaining one if it was published.

Another matter being discussed is the formation of a "Two Transport Platoon Association". With an Association in place it would make applying for grants, banking, and purchasing goods a lot cheaper. We would have all our information in one place and we would not have to reinvent the wheel with each reunion. Other organisations have them in place and it works well. A vote will be required at our next reunion but at the moment all we need is an idea of how you feel about it. We will do the homework and report back if we have enough interest.

If you could take the time and give us a bit of feed back on these two issues it would be great.

Kind regards

Mohrie
Reunion Committee.

New Registration List

The following members have registered for the 2011 reunion. If you have registered and your name is not here please contact Mohrie at : mohrie@bigpond.com or 0407546311.

Name
Baker Gregory & Judy
Bath Leigh & Joan
Blackmore Bill & Val
Blanch Gordon
Blanche Allan & Sharan
Bond Daryl
Bracken Colin & Eva
Breen Franl & Partner
Butler Ken & Kaye
Byrne Terry & Meryl
Campbell Ian & Deborah
Canny David (Donk)
Chonka Russell & Julie
Clarke George & Shauna
Clements Paul & Marlene
Collard Neil & Giulia
Cornwill Graeme & Joyce
Crawford Colin & Kathleen
Crawford Grant & Margaaret
Cronin Neville
Crossley John & Barbara
Crosthwaite Don & Pamela
Crowe Les & Moira
Davies Ron (Rolly) and Bev
Davis Bob & Netta
Davis Ken & Jeanette
Dayas Tony & Margaret
Delaney Joseph & Sue
Dennis & Coralie Corboy
Denysiuk Peter
Dinte Russ & Carole
Ducat Arthur & Karina
Duffy Barry & Lianne
Duffy Tony
Eastwood Tim & Julie
Edwards Bob & Cathy
Egan Robert & Gloria
English Merv
Eric & Kaye Ciracovitch
Exon Stan & Lois
Falconer Doug & Aloma
Flack Maurice & Yuonne
Fowles Win & Sandi
Freid Ric & Alison
Gillie Graham & Helen
Gregg Ken and Helen
Griffiths Gavin
Hancock Ron & Marion
Handcock Anthony
Harris Mike
Hartmann Bob & Jeanette
Heathcote Ray & Raylene
Hickey David & Elizabeth
Hill Alan & Leonie
Hocking Keith & Marilyn
Hofert (Pussy) Billy
Hooper Garry & Jan
Hore Des & Marg
Hotton Paul
Hughes Malcolm
Hyland Barry & Sandra
Inglis Alan & Eleanor
Ivory Wayne & Julie
James Ray & Lorraine
Keane Owen & Kathy
Keirnan John and Bev
Kerr Gary & Mary
Kirby Rip & Liz
Kirshaw Bob & Kay
Knuckey Colin & Kerrie
Korney Valentine & Nina
Kugler Dennis & Barbara
Larracy Vincent & Janet
Lazaroff James & Edel
Lesinski Ski & Rob
Lyndon & Anne Mader
Maltby Hugh & Sandy
Mc Monagle Frank & Jo
Mc Neil Derek & Margaret
McMahon Colin & Shirley
Mohr Tony & Angela
Mosley Michael & Noeleen
Murphy Kevin & Beverly
Ongley John & Clara
Page David & Judy
Peach Ivor
Peaker George & Carmen
Pearson Jim & Jenny
Peterson Bob & Kay
Robinson Vince
Rodgers Bluey
Ross Ian & Jenny
Russell Ron & Kaye
Sanderson Trevor &Pat Crowe
Sawyer Keith & Val
Schuberth Dennis & Marlene
Schultz Adrian & Cathy
Scott Graeme & Sandra
Scott Les & Elaine Bristoxn
Sharp Paul & Lorraine
Shaw Bob & Sherry
Shaw Bruce & Jodi
Smallbon Rev. Tony & Merilyn
Smedley Colin & Cheryl
Smith Raymond & Hazel
Smith Sam
Spry richard & Grace
Thomas Eddie & Alison Hampton
Tolhurst Brian & Jenny
Tyler Bob & Christine
Underwood Colin & Marjorie
Wachmer Ron & Ellen
Walker John & Sue
Walter Col & Zita
Watkins Taff & Paulette
Williamson Trevor & Beth
Young Robin & Anna

Warning.

G'day all.

I received the following text from Terry today via the RSL (Queensland Branch). Please don't be caught:


Hi All
I have just been advised by DVA Cairns that some people are scamming mainly ex National serviceman. The ex serviceman is initially sent a letter advising them that they are entitled to Service pension and to contact the author. Once they do this they are then sent a letter with AMF (not used for many years) headed paper asking for bank details to put the service pension into, date of birth and other personal information. Their bank accounts are then cleaned out. Please advise as many others as possible of this scam.

Vietnam Veterans' day

The reunion committee hopes all our members have a great day. A few of us will be at the Kerra Sports Club on Wednesday, if your in town please call in and have a beer with us.

Good luck to all

Sample belt buckles in

This is the belt buckle for sale at the reunion.

Two Platoon Tatts

I thought I would add a new tatt to my collection.

I have had this one for some time, sadly I had to add Dave Will with Red Rat

Senator Lundy to speak on indexation reform in Canberra on 16 August

I hope Senator Kate Lundy (Labor, ACT) attracts a good attendance at her meeting in Canberra on 16 August ( http://www.katelundy.com.au/2010/07/30/speaking-at-scoa-dfwa-meeting-on-16th-august/ ).

It still seems to me that she is genuinely trying to do the right thing by military superannuation pensioners (yes, I know the election is not far away and that she has a particular political barrow to push. That's democracy. There are genuine people on both sides of the political divide.)

But it also seems to me that, unfortunately, Labor has nothing to offer on the major issue of indexation reform for military super pensions and that Sen Lundy has little prospect of changing her party's mind. I'd like to be wrong.

I imagine that Sen Lundy would welcome comments that you or others may want to post at her site (see link above) particularly if you do not live in Canberra and/or cannot attend her meeting. I do trust that any comments from others who may eventually read this email will be rational and will not stoop to the abuse that a small minority of unrepresentative people insist on generating, to the detriment of all of the Defence Family.

The election campaign still has more than a fortnight to run. It would be great if all parties agreed to protect military super pension purchasing power and also agreed to fix the other Defence Family issues in a bipartisan manner.

Cheers

Win Fowles

DFWA Launches Fair Go campaign..

G'day all,

If you have the time please take a look at the Launch of the "Fair Go" Campaign by the DFWA, it can be found HERE

Battle Lines Drawn

The Defence Force Welfare Association (DFWA) is in a battle with the Federal Government to inprove the retirements benefits of our serving and exserving members. Win Fowles is leading the push from our end. Please visit the DFWA web site
www.dfwa.org.au and if you can show your support by writing to the Minister of Veterans Affairs ( Alan Griffin alan.griffin.mp@aph.gov.au )and let him know how you feel about this issue. Remember we were all once Soldiers and our mates need a hand now.

Below is a letter Win sent to the Minister its long but worth the read:

Minister

Thank you for your time last night at the Caloundra RSL. It was and is appreciated.

Attached as we discussed and you requested is DFWA's response dated 30 Sep 2009 to the Matthews Report, as well as the covering letter to Minister Tanner. The response was and is supported by many other ESOs.

As you would know, further issues casting significant doubt on the depth and veracity of Mr Matthews' review have come to light since the attached response was written over nine months ago.

DFWA's attached response was posted on its website ( www.dfwa.org.au ) immediately after the response's dispatch to Minister Tanner. It is still there. So is other pertinent material.

Despite a number of requests from DFWA, all of which were suitably polite, Minister Tanner has never seen fit to reply or comment upon the demonstrated flaws in Mr Matthews report as evidenced in the DFWA paper. Nor to my knowledge has anyone else at ministerial level in your government.

Common courtesy normally dictates that a reply will be made, even if it is merely to tell the requester to go away. In this case and at this level, it seems reasonable that Minister Tanner would have at least acknowledged receipt of the DFWA response and that through his staff he would have addressed at least the key issues therein. He has not.

If I heard correctly, you said last night that you have requested more indexation costings from Finance before making a superannuation announcement in coming weeks. Given that Finance has a questionable track record under governments of both colours, and given that Finance under two governments has never chosen to reveal the methodology it uses to make its demonstrably questionable financial forecasts re indexation, and given that there is no evidence in Mr Matthews' 80 page report of any independent research on his part, what confidence can serving or former servicemen & women have in your coming announcement?

Your government's unquestioning and sole reliance on figures provided by Finance is disturbing. Your predecessors did the same. So did Mr Matthews.

You also said, again if I heard correctly, that an ABS inquiry to establish a suitable indexation formula for military super pensioners would cost around $80m and take up to four years, which is too expensive to contemplate. Noting that PBLCI reportedly cost around $18m to develop, may I ask that you enquire of your source the veracity of the $80m figure? And even if $18m or $80m is true, your Catch-22 argument is consigning military super pensioners to more decades of pension erosion and falling living standards, a situation that I once believed a Labor government in particular would find abhorrent.

I do ask - entreat - you not to accept and promulgate Finance's numbers at face value. Please, unlike Mr Matthews or others on both sides of the House, be sceptical. Ask for evidence. Ask for Finance's methodology. If it is robust it will withstand scrutiny.

And put Finance's alleged numbers in perspective by asking them for comparative numbers so that the indexation issue can be put in context, e.g. what is the 45 year unfunded liability for pre-2004 MP (PCSS) super pensions? What is the 45 year projection for the Age Pension? Medicare? What effect will the new military super scheme have on the alleged $15b unfunded liability for DFRDB/MSBS per Matthews page 66? When this liability declines, as it dramatically will, what is the positive effect on the Future Fund's projections? And more.

Mr Matthews used Finance's unverified scare numbers with no context. I do hope that your coming announcement will not fall into the same trap. The men and women of today's ADF will suffer directly if you do so, exactly as their predecessors have done under governments of both colours. All deserve better.

When all the politics and Politics are put to one side, neither your government nor the previous government has ever chosen to address the gross hypocrisy evidenced by the indexation method that applies to pre-2004 PCSS MPs. It is simply unconscionable for Finance Minister Tanner and previous Finance Minister Minchin, both of whom retire shortly, to each stonewall indexation reform for military super pensioners on cost grounds while personally enjoying an expensive indexation regime that is tied to today's and future MP salaries. I don't begrudge them the dollar value of their initial super pensions. I do begrudge them their indexation regime, as should any fair minded Australian regardless of political persuasion. You and they know it is hypocritical, indefensible and wrong.

Finally, all inquiries - including Matthews recently and Pollard & Melville & Jess decades ago, and all inquiries in between - acknowledged that the purpose of indexation is to protect pension purchasing power. Today's CPI does not do so. You know it. So does every other parliamentarian who has ever looked at the indexation issue for more than 30 seconds. Please fix it.

Thanks again for your time last night. The Caloundra RSL did a great job in hosting everybody.

Sincerely
Win Fowles

Free Limited Edition Lapel Pin Offer

As a special thank you to all our Nasho customers, we would like to extend a special offer, a free limited edition lapel pin, with only 2,500 being produced. To claim your free Limited Edition lapel pin, simply visit our Canberra showroom at 65 Kembla Street Fyshwick after August 15.

The front features the design of the Anniversary of National Service Medal and the reverse is stamped with the limited edition number. As an added bonus we'll also give you a complimentary Military Shop pen. Remember, these limited edition lapel pins cannot be ordered, you must visit the Army Shop showroom to claim your free lapel pin.

Can't make it to our showroom?

If you are not able to visit our showroom but would still like a lapel pin you can order an un-numbered standard lapel pin. The front of the pin is the same as the limited edition version but the back is plain and not stamped. The lapel pin is $6.00 plus postage (calculated at time of order). The lapel pins will be available after August 15 but can be pre-ordered now.

If you would like further information, or you would like to place an order, please feel free to contact us on 02 6123 2960 or visit www.armyshop.com.au

Regards

The Army Shop Team

A sorry few weeks

Lest we forget

Below Pte Timothy Aplin, Pte Scott Palmer and Pte Benjamin Chuck all saddly killed defending us and our lifestyle.

It's been a sorry few weeks for our mates in Afghanistan. Yet another soldier killed adding to the sad list

Private Nathan Bewes from the Brisbane based 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR) was killed by an improvised explosive. Private Bewes was serving with the 1st Mentoring Task Force in Afghanistan, and was part of a dismounted Australian patrol conducting operations in the Chora Valley region of Uruzgan province.
Another soldier from the same patrol suffered minor wounds as a result of the blast and is currently receiving medical treatment at Role 2 medical facility at Multi-National Base Tarin Kowt.
Private Bewes was 23 years old and leaves behind his loving parents, sister and partner, who are currently receiving support from Private Bewes’ unit 6RAR, and from the Defence Community Organisation.
Private Bewes was born in Kogarah, NSW in 1986. He joined the Army in 2005 and in the same year successfully completed his recruit and infantry basic training prior to being posted to 6RAR.
This was his second deployment to Afghanistan. Private Bewes had also deployed to East Timor in 2006.

Vietnam Collection

G'day all, sorry the blog site has not been updated for a while, I had some family business to attend to.

I received an email form the Army shop with the new Veitnam Collection now available. Remember all profits go back to our Armed Forces. The Link is below:

http://www.armyshop.com.au/catalogue/displayProducts/lineId/994.html

The first order for the Two Platoon belt buckles will be going in this week, this is a test run to see what they will look like, if they are okay they will be available at the reunion next year. We are also thinking of having a Two Platoon (33) medallion made up as a key ring, we are getting a quote now. What do you think, we need you feedback. If you have any ideas for the reunion please let us know.

Vietnam Veterans Day
A few of us are heading for the Tweed area for Vietnam Veterans day. If you are interested in joining us give Mohrie a ring on 0407546311, 0754382492 or email mohrie@bigpond.com . The reunion committee will be holding a meeting the day prior, you would be more then welcome to attend to see what goes on on your behalf.

Lest we forget
It's sad to see more of our fellow diggers being killed overseas. If you can, raise a glass for them, they need us to stand behind them. We remember what it was like to be away from our love ones.

Registration update

New registration update. If you have registered and your name is not below please contact Tony Mohr at mohrie@bigpond.com.

(Sorry Ron)

Name
Baker Gregory & Judy
Bath Leigh & Joan
Blackmore Bill & Val
Blanch Gordon
Blanche Allan & Sharan
Bond Daryl
Bracken Colin & Eva
Brian & Jenny Tolhurst
Butler Ken & Kaye
Campbell Ian & Deborah
Canny David (Donk)
Chonka Russell & Julie
Clements Paul & Marlene
Collard Neil & Giulia
Cornwill Graeme & Joyce
Crawford Colin & Kathleen
Crawford Grant & Margaaret
Cronin Neville
Crossley John & Barbara
Crosthwaite Don & Pamela
Crowe Les & Moira
Davies Ron (Rolly) and Bev
Davis Bob & Netta
Davis Ken & Jeanette
Dayas Tony & Margaret
Delaney Joseph & Sue
Dennis & Coralie Corboy
Denysiuk Peter
Dinte Russ & Carole
Duffy Barry & Lianne
Duffy Tony
Eastwood Tim & Julie
Edwards Bob & Cathy
Egan Robert & Gloria
English Merv
Eric & Kaye Ciracovitch
Exon Stan & Lois
Falconer Doug & Aloma
Flack Maurice & Yuonne
Fowles Win & Sandi
Freid Ric & Alison
Gillie Graham & Helen
Gregg Ken and Helen
Griffiths Gavin
Handcock Anthony
Hancock Ron & Marion
Harris Mike
Hartmann Bob & Jeanette
Heathcote Ray & Raylene
Hickey David & Elizabeth
Hill Alan & Leonie
Hocking Keith & Marilyn
Hofert (Pussy) Billy
Hooper Garry & Jan
Hore Des & Marg
Hotton Paul
Hughes Malcolm
Hyland Barry & Sandra
Inglis Alan & Eleanor
Ivory Wayne & Julie
James Ray & Lorraine
Keane Owen & Kathy
Keirnan John and Bev
Kerr Gary & Mary
Kirby Rip & Liz
Kirshaw Bob & Kay
Knuckey Colin & Kerrie
Korney Valentine & Nina
Kugler Dennis & Barbara
Larracy Vincent & Janet
Lazaroff James & Edel
Lesinski Ski & Rob
Lyndon & Anne Mader
Mc Monagle Frank & Jo
Mc Neil Derek & Margaret
McMahon Colin & Shirley
Mohr Tony & Angela
Mosley Michael & Noeleen
Murphy Kevin & Beverly
Ongley John & Clara
Page David & Judy
Peach Alan
Peaker George & Carmen
Pearson Jim & Jenny
Peterson Bob & Kay
Robinson Vince
Ross Ian & Jenny
Russell Ron & Kaye
Sanderson Trevor &Pat Crowe
Sawyer Keith & Val
Schuberth Dennis & Marlene
Schultz Adrian & Cathy
Scott Les & Elaine Bristoxn
Sharp Paul & Lorraine
Shaw Bob & Sherry
Shaw Bruce & Jodi
Smallbon Rev. Tony & Merilyn
Smedley Colin & Cheryl
Smith Raymond & Hazel
Smith Sam
Thomas Eddie & Alison Hampton
Tyler Bob & Christine
Underwood Colin & Marjorie
Wachmer Ron & Ellen
Walker John & Sue
Watkins Taff & Paulette
Williamson Trevor & Beth
Young Robin & Anna

Spare Wheel Cover

The following is a report on the Wheel Cover from Terry Byrne. Feed back please.

1.Wheel Cover...members own choice they generally cost somewhere between $30-$55,this gets over the problem of what size is required.

2.2 Tpt Pl Tac Sign:This is what the guy will make up and charge us $35,I have tentatively told him we would probably be looking for about 100,I have sought some other quotes and they are almost double,the idea is we purchase the logos and members get their own wheel cover and stick them on themselves.

3.SVN Ribbons: These I put on as an afterthought to dress it up a bit more,came out of my stock,I believe they are readily available but do not know the cost
The whole cost to me came out at $78..saw a "Tunnel Rat" guy in the Toowoomba caravan park with his wheel cover and he told me it cost almost $180 at one of their reunions,I guess if we can get it for about 1/2 price we are doing well..what do you think?

Young lovers

So we can keep the ladies happy at the reunion we are thinking of running a Gallery of young lovers.

An example of what we mean is above, young Zac and Kaye, and don't they make a wonderful couple.

If you have any such photos please send them to mohrie@bigpond.cocm and we will arrange it.

Don't forget the send in the then and now photos keep them coming and join in the fun.

RACT Corps Birthday Lunch

What a great day was had the the Morningside RSL for the RACT Corps Birthday Lunch. How pleasing it was to see so many of the young serving members there.

I had the opportunity to talk to a few of the young soldiers there, one of which is off the the middle east soon. They were all happy in the service and looked forward to serving our country when and if the time came.

The Army Transport Association is looking for new members and would love to have more of us as members. If you wish to join please follow the links on their Web site.

http://armytransportassociationinc.org.au/

The ATA holds a Smoko every second month on the first Friday of that month. The next smoko will be on Friday 6 August at the Enoggera Army Camp. I will post more details of that when the time gets closer. If you can make it, it would be great to attend as a group.

Guess who

All I can say it was taken on Christmass Day 1968. Dont you just love the shades and shorts. Oh! and he just had a Birthday on Sunday last.

Petition - Military Superannuation Pensions

Below is a link to a petition being put forward by Senator Steve Fielding on the issue of the gross unfairness of the current indexation arrangements for Military Superannuation Pensions.
It would be great if we could get as many people to sign up as possible. Unfortunately, it seems the only way the government will listen is if we actually prove to them how many people are angry by their shameful inaction on this issue.

Petition

Boyds Bay Holiday Park

G'day all,

Angela and I had the pleasure of spending a few days at "Boyds Bay Holiday Park' last week. We thought we might check out the facilities first hand. I must say we were very impressed with the whole layout

The photo above is where the large marquee will be erected, the Caravan sites are on the left on the higher ground.

These are the Cabins down by the private beach and picnic grounds

Camp kitchen situated near our marquee and caravan sites.

Toilet and shower block. There are four of these around the park so you don't have far to go when required.

They were spotless during our visit.

Boat and Car wash point with a fish cleaning area.

Cabins near the enterance to the Park. Once again they were spotless and will equiped.

Private boat ramp onto the Tweed river for our fisherman.

Private beach and picnic area.

If you have any particular queations regarding the park please contact me and I will do my best to help. In all I think we can look forward to a great reunion. If you all remember I wanted to run the reunion at Bribie Island, however I think we made the right decision to hold it here.

Review of War Caused Disabilities and Pharmaceutical Costs

The Hon. Alan Griffin M.P., the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel, has released the Consultation Paper for the Review of War Caused Disabilities and Pharmaceutical Costs.
Submissions are welcome from interested individuals and organisations. The consultation process will be open from 7 May 2010 to close of business 18 June, 2010. Following the close of the consultation period, the DVA will analyse submissions and prepare a report to Minister Griffin. More information is available from the DVA on p) 133 254.

Thanks Zac for the info

Another one of our's makes good

Recently Eric Ciracovitch (Zac) received a Certificate of Appreciation from the SA Government "for oustanding contribution to the Attorney General's Department". Zac works a 4 hour shift once a week as a Justice of the Peace and assists an average of 40 -50 people on each shift.

Good on you mate, keep up the good work.

Passing of Graham Pearce

It is with great sorrow we announce to passing of Graham Pearce. Graham passed away on the 1st. of April 2010, he was with 2 Transport Platoon from 10 May 67 to 8 Nov 67. Our thoughts are with his family.

"Lest we forget"

Facebook

We now have a "Facebook" site if you are into it

Link

Have fun with it.

Dedication of the National Servicemen's Memorial Canberra 2010 Merchandise

The National Servicemen's Association Australia has engaged the Military Shop to provide quality merchandise for the dedication of the National Servicemen's Memorial in Canberra, September 2010. The National Servicemen's Association will gain a royalty from the sale of each product.

We are pleased to offer you this great range of merchandise and remember all profits from Army Shop go to the Army Relief Trust Fund to support soldiers.

Stock is due in early July, order now to secure your items.

If you would like further information, or you would like to place an order, please feel free to contact us on 02 6123 2960 or visit www.armyshop.com.au

Equal to the Task vol 1

If you want to know a bit about the RAASC we recommend you visit the site. If you go to the site and click on the contents you will find a wealth of information.
The web book is the work of Neville Lindsay and it is a fine example of dedication to the Corps.
It also offers the opportunity for short biographies of Corps members to be submitted by them, their families or other interested persons. (Check out some that are already there).

What a great ANZAC Day

What a great day was had by all up here in Brisbane, we hope you all had as great a day. The day started at the new venue for the ATA that being "The Club" that is the Queensland Public Service Club. As this was a private function we were abel to have a drink well before the 1300hrs as set for most Hotels. As can be seen by the photo on the left a few of us took advantage of the situation.

We had a number of the Platoon members there including two past Platoon commanders. (Terry Byrne and Win Fowles) Two other members came a distance to join us, Rip Kirby all the way from Canberra and Gordon Balnch from Grafton. Thanks boys for putting in the effort.

The Banner stood proud through the march and we received feed back from other members who saw us on the TV. We all felt so proud.

The club put on a great feed after the march and we all enjoyed a few drinks on such a hot day

Another great highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of a Certificate of Appreciation to Gary Kerr for his over Thirty years service to The RAASC/RACT and his service to the ATA since his discharge. Gary was an NCO with 2 Transport Pl in 1967 and served on till his discharge as a Major. To Gary from all the members of 2 Transport Pl we say well done mate, we are all proud that a former member of the platoon did so well.

We are going to try and make it again next year, so if you are able to get to Brisbane please come along.

If any other groups have reports or photos of ANZAC Day and wish to have them posted just send them to:

mohrie@bigpond.com.

ANZAC Day

The reunion committee would like to wish all our members a great ANZAC Day. Try not to drink to much and above all get home safe.

National Service Memorial

We have just been advised that the Dedication of the National Service Memorial will be held at the AWM in Canberra on Tue and Wed 7/8 of September 2010. For full details see the official site click here . From this site you will be able to download an expression of interest form. You will need to act fast as only 1000 National Serviceman will be invited to Parliament House for the official reception. Details are on the site.

There will be a parade and dedication ceremony on Wed the 8th. involving the Governor General.

If Two Transport members wish you may use this site to orginise the memorial. If you intend to go email us on mohrie@bigpond.com and we post details on the site and/or send out information through our email address group. If there is enough interest we will orginise some kind of reunion.

Sorry ARA people, you are not invited, however if you wish to we can organise something for you in Canberra, our own little "Reg" reunion.

Belt Buckles and name badges

G'day all, we are hoping to have some belt buckles made up similar to the one above, without the RAASC badge but with our "33" and the vietnam colours. We hope to have an example and prices soon. Also we are getting quotes on name badges , as soon as we have an example of the badge it will be posted.

What do you think ?

Boyds Bay Holiday Park

G'day all,

Just a hint when you are making a booking at the Holiday Park please mention that you are part of the 2 Transport Reunion, in this way we will be able to be in one general area.

The link to the Park is here:

Please book as soon as you can.

From our last meeting

Merchandise
We have decided to hold stocks of “33” tac signs on hand for sale at $2.00 each. Depending on cost the crossed swords and kangaroo sign will also be available.
The following merchandise is going to be investigated for sale at the next reunion:
• Belt buckle with the unit “33” and colours
• Stubby holder
• Number plate surrounds
• Unit mug
• Polo shirt with unit “33”
• 4WD spare wheel cover with unit “33”

River Cruise
We have decided to go firm on the river cruise as per ser .5 of the draft Programme. This still leaves the Wednesday open for a tour. If you have any ideas please let us know so it can be discussed and arranged.

Free Day
It is now time to arrange your free day and get some kind of group together. Some activities near the park are:
• Golf
• Ten pin bowling
• Lawn bowls
• Visit one of the Theme Parks
• Wild life parks
• Or visit the Tweed information HERE There is a whole host of things to see and do

• Or just stay in the Park and relax.

A more detailed programme will be issued when it is complete.
Please we need your feed back, it is your reunion, if you have any ideas please let us know

G'day all,

We have been asked about the "33" car stickers. We are happy to say that they are available from the reunion commettee at the cost of $2.00 each. If you require any let us know at mohrie@bigpond.com and we will send them off. Don't send any money we will add it to your reunion cost. We are also investigating the supply of the crossed swords and kangaroo tac sign and depending on cost they too will be available soon. A limited number of lapel pins are available for $5.00, as for the stickers, don't send money we will add it to your account.

ANZAC Day

G'day all,

Please find below a letter we received from the Army Transport Association in regards to ANZAC Day. For all of you who can make it we will have our banner there so we will be marching behind it with the ATA. If we all meet at the Club as mentioned below at about 1000hr. we can go as a group to the form up point. If you can make it it would be great to march as a unit and a few drinks after.

Army Transport Association Inc
4 Newline Court
Loganlea Q 4131
6 Apr 2010

Tony

Please take note that due to a breakdown in communications with our previous function landlords it has become necessary for us to take the following drastic action to avoid succumbing to crippling financial hardship.

With this in mind the Committee of the ATA Inc has decided to move the ‘post Anzac Day March Function’ from Lennons as previously noted, to;
“THE CLUB” (Public Service Club), situated in Stephens Lane in the city, between George and William Streets.

The Club opens for the function at 12 noon, (but drinks are available from 1000hrs.)

Entry fee remains unchanged at $15 dollars per head to cover room hire and food.
A choice of three lunch menus is available for lunch (Meals are required to cover licensing restrictions)

Being a club, a pre requisite is that all attending members must sign in at the door.

The function is held on the first floor, lift and stair access is provided.
Smoking area is available on the ground floor.

We regret any inconvenience this change of venue may incur, but hopefully enough time is available to inform most intending attendees.

We trust you and your members will support us in this new venue.

Yours sincerely

Glen Hutley (Secretary

We are still looking for members interested in marching as a group on ANZAC day in Brisbane. We will have the 2 Platoon Banner with us and will march behind and as part of the ATA. If you wish to join us please contact us at mohrie@bigpond.com . We will post details as they come to hand.

If there are any other groups who wish their march details posted here just let us know and we will post the details.

RAASC Vietnam Plaque Dedication Weekend

Some of the members of 2 Transport who traveled to canberra for the Plaque dedication. (click on photo for close up)

Above can be seen the plaque which was dedicated over last weekend. We are pleased to say 2 Transport was well represented and a good weekend was had by all. When we are advised of the location the plaque is to be layed we will post the details. We have been told it will be in the gardens not far form the HMAS Brisbane.

Update

Hi All

Registrations are still comming in and that is fine to see. You learn a few things reading the registrations forms, like Tony Handcock missed his calling, his handwriting is bad enough for him to be a doctor and Blanchie must think we are mind readers, but it's all in good fun.

A few of us are off to Canberra this week for the RAASC Plaque Dedication at the AWM. This will be a good chance to catch up and have a few beers. We will post a report on it along with some photos.

On the sad side, we are sorry to hear the news of the passing of Kaye Ciracovitch's Mother. Our thoughs are with you Kaye and we look forward to sharing happier times with you.

Just a reminder that a few of us will be marching on ANZAC Day in Brisbane, if you wish to join in please contact us at: mohrie@bigpond.com and I will let you know where we will be meeting.

Motel Accommodation

MOTELS.

1. Blue Pelican Motel
115 Wharf Street,
Tweed Heads.
NSW 2485
Tel: (07) 5536-1777
Fax: (07) 5599-1987
Email: info@bluepelicanmotel.com.au
Web: www.bluepelicanmotel.com.au

2. Las Vegas Motor Inn
123 Wharf Street,
Tweed Heads.
NSW 2485
Tel: 1800 807 351
Web: www.lasvegasmotorinn.com.au

3. Comfort Inn Bayswater
129-131 Wharf Street,
Tweed Heads.
NSW 2485
Tel: (07) 5599-4111
Fax: (07) 5599-4044
Reservations: 1800 501 572
Email: bayswater@ozemail.com.au
Web: www.baywater.citysearch.com.au


4. Tweed Harbour Motor Inn
135 Wharf Street,
Tweed Heads.
NSW 2485
Tel: (07) 5536-6066
Fax: (07) 5536-9811
Webb: tweedharbourmotorinn.com

5. Calico Court Motel
29 Minjungbal Drive,
Tweed Heads South.
NSW 2486
Tel: (07) 5524-3333
Fax: (07) 5524-3604

6. City Lights Motel
35 Minjungbal Drive,
Tweed Heads South.
NSW 2486
Tel: (07) 5524-3004 or 5524-3577
Fax: (07) 5524-1888
Toll Free: 1800 659 833
www.citylightsmotel.cityseach.com.au

7. Twin Towns Motel
21 Minjungbal Drive,
Tweed Heads South.
NSW 2486
Reservations: 1300 302 915
Fax: (07) 5524-3108

CARAVAN PARK.

8. Boyds Bay Holiday Park
3 Dry Dock Road,
Tweed Heads South.
NSW 2486
Tel: (07) 5524-3306
Email: boydsbay@tchp.com.au
Webb: www.tchp.com.au

NOTES.

9. Whilst the reunion is to be centred around the Boyds Bay Holiday Park the other venues have been suggested to assisted members as alternative accommodation.

10. All venues have been inspected and from local knowledge are considered to be of a relatively high standard at reasonable prices.

11. Further information on alternative sites is available from published accommodation directories or from:
The Gold Coast Tourist Centre
Wharf Street,
Tweed Heads
NSW 2486
Tel: 1300 309 440

Return to Sender

We had the following members' letter returnend to us, if you can assist on their new address please contact us:

F. J. Bowman
B. G. Nunn
C.R. Polzin
C.R. Walter
R.N. Wilde
M. Griffin
K. J. Francis

Message from Joe Lavery

Joe and Gay Lavery are looking for company on a trip from Darwin across the cape and down to the Tweed for the next reunion. If anybody is interested please contact Joe at: jogala1@bigpond.com or 08 8988 4153

Who is comming

Listed below are the members who have registrated. Is your mate there? If not, get on the phone and give him a call.

Leigh and Joan Bath
Gordon Blanch
Ken and Kaye Butler
Les and Moira Crowe
Bob and Netta Davis
Tony Duffy
Merv English
Stan and Lois Exon
Tony Handcock
Mike Harris
Ray and Raylene Heathcote
Alan and Eleanor Inglis
Owen (mustard) and Kathy Keane
Rip and Liz Kirby
Valentine (Val) and Nina Korney
Denis and Barbara Kugler
Frank and Jo McMonagle
Derek and Margaret Mc Neil
Kevin and Beverly Murphy
David and Judy Page
Alan Peach
Vince Robinson
Ron and Kay Russell
Paul and Lorraine Sharp
Colin and Cheryl Smedley
Bob and Christine Tyler
Colin and Marjorie Underwood
Trevor and Beth Williamson
Win and Sandy Fowles
Helen and Graham Gillie
Gregory and Judi Baker
Lyndon and Anne Mander
Zac and Kaye Ciracovitch
Bob and Kay Kirshaw
Brian and Jenny Tolhusrt
Alan and Leonie Hill
Ian and Jenny Ross
Grant and Margaret Crawford
Dennis and Coralie Corboy
John and Bev Keirnan
Billy (Pussy) Hofert
Bill and Val Blackmore
Graeme and Joyce Cornwill
Paul and Marlene Clements
Don and Pam Crosthwaite
Daryl Bond
Keith and Val Sawyer
Les Scott and Elaine Bristow
Ron and Ellen Wachmer
Barry and Sandra Hyland
Colin and Kerrie Knuckey

First mail out

G'day all,

I sent out a copy of the first mail out to members I have an email address for, if you require the documents in PDF format please let me know and I will send them off. Some members with older office programs are unable to open them. In future I will send everything out as a PDF file. Sorry about that.

Or you can wait for your letter to arrive.

Army Newspaper

If you think you would enjoy reading the Army Newspaper follow this link to receive the paper:

http://digital.realviewtechnologies.com/?xml=defencenews_army.xml.