RSA Review March

AUTUMN 2017

IMAGES FROM IRAQ

Joe Dowling lived 12 months in Iraqi Kurdistan, teaching English and photographing everyday life, part of which was fighting ISIS by night. Page 16-17.

News

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Defence

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Middle East

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Anzac Day

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School salutes ‘King of No Man’s Land’

The Navy to the rescue

Observations from the Middle East

New life beats the battlefield odds

A tiny Southland school is home to two flags directly connected with highly decorated World War 1 soldier Dick Travis.

Naval ships from four nations combined in an initial rescue force to Kaikoura after the November earthquake.

Home from 12 months as United Nations observer in Israel, Capt Gerard Peoples reflects on what he did and saw.

For some reason war often inspires poets and writers. We have the story behind the famous In Flanders Fields, plus readers’ offerings.

VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.RSA.ORG.NZ

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RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

News The official publication of the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association Volume 93 No.1 Autumn 2017 Published March 15, 2017

In this issue 02 News 06 National 08 Defence 18 Last Post 23 Lost Trails 24 Support/Well being 26 Remembering 32 What’s On For RSA Review enquiries and subscriptions, contact: RSA Review Anzac House, 181 Willis Street PO Box 27 248, Wellington 6141 Phone 04 384 7994 Fax 04 385 3325 rsareview@rsa.org.nz www.rsa.org.nz Last Post, What’s On and Lost Trails are placed in RSA Review as a free service.

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Views and opinions expressed in the RSA Review are not necessarily those of the RNZRSA, Waterford Press Ltd or publisher.

RNZRSA accepts no responsibility for loss of manuscripts or photos.

Jack Steer, who took over as RSA Chief Executive in mid-November, brings strong links with military with him. Four decades of service with the Navy culminated in the rank of Rear Admiral and the Chief of Navy role from 2012-15. From 2008 t0 2012 he was Commander Joint Forces NZ and Vice-Chief of the New Zealand Defence Force. Sue Russell spoke with Jack.

JACK TAKES THE RSA HELM Tell us why you felt you could make a positive contribution in this leadership role.

During 43 years in the Navy I had the great opportunity to work with a lot of Navy, Army and Air Force personnel, and again in my role as Vice-Chief of Defence Force. I have always felt strongly that Returned Service men and women are important. I was drawn to accept this role because a core purpose of the RSA is to look after our Veterans of yesterday, today and tomorrow.

It’s honourable work to provide help to those who need help and assistance. I am a Veteran, everyone who has worked within the New Zealand Defence Force, in an active role or in vital support, is or will one day be a Veteran.

In the variety of roles I have been fortunate to have undertaken, I have been so impressed with a number of older Veterans. When I participated in the 2013 commemoration of the Battle of the Pacific, in Noumea, most of those who attended were ex-Army and ex-Air Force. When I saw how they acted when they saw graves of their fallen mates, I realised just how deep the sentiments of veneration ran.

Describe what you see as your most pressing responsibilities as you take over this key role.

The RSA is an organisation of a National Office with 183 affiliated RSAs, many of which are going through managing change, and finding relevant ways to contribute in their communities and maintain support for their members.

National Office has a responsibility to be there to support these clubs in whatever way possible, to offer guidance and assistance when sought. There has been a lack of good communication between the RSA’s Clubs and the wider organisation. I want to improve that.

In the military, communication is everything.

For the RSA, it is a key part of success. The landscape of our membership, their needs and the way society generally operates has changed so much from the early days when RSAs were the main place veterans sought and received support in terms of camaraderie. It is vital we, as the national body, are seen to communicate and engage more robustly with our affiliated clubs.

To achieve this and enhance the support we

Jack Steer hands over as Chief of Navy.

can offer in terms of service access for veterans, I want to find more reliable and constant sources of incomes. The RSA is a not-for-profit organisation which relies mainly on affiliation fees and donations to run National Office, and the generosity of the people of New Zealand during Poppy Week to fund direct support for our veteran communities. Given that we have more Veterans now than ever before, there is an urgent need to look at other income streams, including corporate sponsorship.

We need to get the message out there about the many ways our fundraising dollars are targeted directly at veteran support. Things such as medical aids, treatments for PTSI (post traumatic stress injury), educational support, clothes and food for those who find themselves down and out.

The money raised each year affects lives, so our focus is raising money for support. We are all focused on continuing this work, and we are constantly seeking out ways to do this better. After all, our Veterans are well worth looking after.

What has been your experience to date of staff you work with at National Office?

They work extraordinarily long hours and put up with a lot of criticism. They are a very committed and dedicated group of men and women who get what the RSA is all about.

The impact of current conflict is different from in the past. Before, you could see a Serviceman’s wounds. These days you can’t, and they often don’t manifest until long after the event. So there is a constantly increasing demand for the services offered by the RSA, Veterans’ Affairs and allied organisations. We are working hard to make sure the governance foundation for the RSA is sound, and to ensure support and remembrance remain our priority.

I work with a dozen colleagues in Wellington – Support Services (who administer the Trust fund), Marketing and Communications (including Social Media Managers), Business Development, Finance, Major Projects, Governance, Administration.

If there were more funding, I would employ another dozen because there is that much work if we are to achieve our objectives. The thrust of our work is about enabling the championing of causes that promote the care and support of Veterans. I hope a strong business-model approach will form the foundation to achieve these things.

What else would you hope to see achieved during your tenure?

I would like to see a Veterans’ Day celebrated in New Zealand. On Anzac Day we remember the sacrifices of those who have gone before. A Veterans’ Day would be a way we, as a nation, could instil further in our young Service men and women a sense of pride in being a Veteran, and raise the consciousness of the New Zealand public that every day, young New Zealanders in the NZDF are serving the people of New Zealand.

Those who have gone before us were amazing, and those currently serving and who will take up the call to serve and defend this nation, often putting themselves in harm’s way, are amazing. A Veterans’ Day would give occasion and opportunity for these fine and brave people to be honoured further.”

RSA frees up funds to help with natural disasters Kelly Deeks An immediate appeal for funds to help Kaikoura residents to get through the tough times following the November 14 earthquake drew a magnificent response from RSAs. Every RSA in the Canterbury and Nelson-Marlborough-West Coast districts contributed money.

Stan Hansen, President of the RSA’s Canterbury district, says that while some of those RSAs are small and some are struggling, everyone put their hand up to contribute.

“It was a great experience for us because we felt the pain of those in Kaikoura after living what we’ve lived through with the Canterbury earthquakes, and we thought we’d be able to help.

“It’s humbling for places like Kaikoura, (whose RSA has about 36 Members) to be in the spotlight and understand there are national presidents and district presidents saying ‘We’re with you, we’re here to help, we’re going to fix your

cenotaphs in your town, and we’ll do it without embarrassment and without humiliation.’ We’re just looking after our family.”

While Canterbury RSA Members had experienced a devastating earthquake, the circumstances in Kaikoura were different.

“They were isolated, and that posed a huge problem,” Stan says. “After everyone’s contributions, we had a sum of money well in excess of $5000, but we couldn’t do anything with it.”

There were various suggestions, and a group including Stan Hansen, RSA National President BJ Clark, and RSA District Support Advisor for Canterbury Eddie Bassett took advice from Civil Defence and Kaikoura RSA President Yvonne Morrison. The decision was to send out vouchers Kaikoura residents could use at their local shops.

“This would help support the local economy whilst giving residents a well needed break,” Stan says. “It was easier to get through money and vouchers than foodstuffs, so as soon as the

road opened, we delivered New World vouchers, chocolates and Christmas cards. A bit closer to Christmas, we had some extra funds left over and gave another sum of money to each of the Kaikoura Members so that they could continue living their normal lives in their community.”

He says Eddie was the tireless worker behind the scenes making it all happen, and he and BJ Clark even travelled to Kaikoura and got firsthand experience of the situation.

Stan says the support was very well received by the Kaikoura community, and the RSA received many thank-you letters and phone calls. The RSA appreciated the support and sponsorship from Nestle and Couplands Bakery.

This appeal is just one example of the type of support RSAs provide, and while supporting past and present service personnel and their families were the main focus, others also To page 5

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RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

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PANMURE ANZACS FORGE SEVERAL BONDS

Kelly Deeks

Lisette Mill – who lives in the tiny township of Panmure in south-west Victoria – didn’t realise just what she was starting when she invited Mt Wellington Panmure (Auckland) RSA Members to Anzac Day 2017 with their Aussie namesakes.

As the Secretary of the Panmure Action Group she wrote to Mt Wellington Panmure RSA President Leon Matthews, who showed her letter to the club’s Padre, Maj Colin Burgess.

“The emphasis of Lisette’s letter was on us being Panmure in New Zealand,” says Colin.

“We’ve got Ellerslie right next door, and Panmure in Australia also has Ellerslie right next to it as well. It was just too scary,” Colin says.

“Then she mentioned her grandfather, Fred Barwick, from Gisborne, and I nearly jumped out of my chair. I got straight in my car, I don’t even remember driving down the motorway. I flew into my house...the family wondered if someone was after me. I got out my family heritage stuff and found an article about Lisette’s grandfather and my father being in the Gisborne RSA together.”

The Panmure-Ellerslie connection was uncanny enough, but neither he nor Lisette could believe they had another connection.

Fred Barwick and Colin’s father, Fred Burgess, served together for the Wellington Mounted Rifles in Cairo and Palestine during World War 2; both eventually settled in Gisborne and joined the Gisborne RSA. Colin got straight back to Lisette, sent her a photo of her grandfather and grandmother celebrating at the Gisborne RSA, and accepted the invitation to Anzac Day. He will speak at the service in the larger town of Warrnambool.

“I’m going to get an aerial photo of Panmure in Auckland, because just out the back of Panmure are roads which have specific world war centre names. I want to identify some of that with the Panmure, Australia people.

Lisette and Patrick Mill, flanked by their local federal MP, Dan Tehan (left), and the New Zealand high commissioner to Australia, Chris Seed (right), after the wreath-laying ceremony at the Canberra War Memorial.

“Also, just out of Panmure towards Glen Innes, where Sylvia Park shopping centre is now, used to be great big red sheds where the returned men from World War 2 would come and be helped to fit back into society. They did practical jobs in these sheds.

“Further up Glen Innes there is a big campsite that Returned men, their wives and their children were able to come to. It was opened up as a state housing system and the first lot of people who came into it were returned soldiers. There is still a big social housing network there today.”

Colin will also talk about the Mt Wellington Panmure RSA, which has gone through its ups and downs. It sold its building and invested the proceeds invested to remain financially viable “We’ve got our own RSA section part of the

Landmark Hotel building, but because it doesn’t belong to us, we are limited in what we can do,” Colin says. “We haven’t got all our memorial boards up around the walls, all our memorial stuff is out the back in a big container. Our photos have all been put on to a computer system and we display them on a big screen. There are a lot of things that need to be worked through, but we’re still meeting, we’ve still got a place, and we’re still an RSA, come what may.”

His brother, Barry, has written a book based on their father’s five war diaries, and Colin will take a copy to Australia for Lisette.

“She knows very little about her grandad, but we are privileged as dad never talked about the war, but he kept all his diaries. To have five years of World War I diaries is unique.”

He will also take a Mt Wellington Panmure RSA polo-shirt as a gift to the Panmure Action Group.

The service in Australia will be relayed to New Zealand in the afternoon; after their Anzac service Mt Wellington Panmure RSA Members will come back to the club and watch the Australia, service on the big screen.

In February, Lisette and her son, Patrick, headed to Canberra for a wreath-laying ceremony at the Canberra War Memorial. They retraced the steps of Lisette’s grandparents who visited the same memorial in 1962 as part of an official delegation of World War 1 Veterans.

Lisette advised Colin to go on line to watch the wreath-laying ceremony, where Lisette and Patrick laid a wreath on behalf of her grandfather.

Her local Federal MP laid a wreath on behalf of the RSL in Australia, and the New Zealand High Commissioner, Chris Seed, laid one on behalf of Fred Burgess.

“Inserted into the bottom of the wreath was the whole inscription from my dad’s and mum’s plaques down at Levin cemetery,” Colin says.

“Most of my family, and we are spread around New Zealand, got on the computer and watched this very special happening.”

This ceremony has further strengthened the relationship between Panmure and Mt Wellington Panmure RSA. In 2018, the Panmure Action Group hopes to visit the Mt Wellington Panmure RSA and bring a New Zealand flag home.

Colin says he believes that if his dad knew what he and Barry were up to with the RSA today, he would probably be very encouraged.

Colin Burgess speaking at an Anzac Day service. He says his father would have been ‘very encouraged’ by the growing Panmure connection.

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RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

SCHOOL SALUTES THE ‘KING OF NO MAN’S LAND’ Peter Owens It’s a long way from the World War 1 battlefields of France to the small and peaceful rural primary school at Pukerau, in Southland. However, the school is in possession of a flag that is a very special part of New Zealand’s military history.

It’s the New Zealand Ensign in which the body of Sgt Dick Travis VC was wrapped before his burial at Couin in the Pas de Calais near where he was killed on September 25, 1918. The Ensign was given to the Pukerau School after the war by a former pupil, Rev. Dr Herron MC, who was a Chaplain to the Forces in France; he was also the Minister of Knox Church, Dunedin and Chancellor of the University of Otago.

The Ensign, permanently displayed at Pukerau School, returned to France for an Anzac Day ceremony at Couin in 1965. It was draped over Dick Travis’s headstone during the ceremony.

The headstone was also draped with a French Tricoleur donated by a nearby village (Hébuterne) to the New Zealand representatives. The French and New Zealand Ensigns were returned to Pukerau School where are in a specially designed and constructed cabinet.

The School is now constructing a permanent memorial to the fallen men from both world wars, which is expected to take about two years to complete. Colleen Watt, a former Principal of the school, is overseeing the project, which will see each flag with its own cabinet and mounted in its entirety. The memorial will also include photographs of locals who served in the wars, plus other memorabilia.

Left: Jim Geddes, curator of the Eastern Southland Museum, and Art Gallery, with the New Zealand ensign in which Dick Travis was wrapped before his burial.

Above: The Tricoleur donated by the French viilage of Hebuterne in 1965.

Dick Travis has little connection with Pukerau, but did work on farms around Southland before World War 1. Dick Travis was not his real name – he adopted it after a series of violent arguments with his father, which had caused him to travel south.

According to a Professional Historian, Aaron Fox, Dickson Cornelius Savage was born at Opotiki, April 6, 1884, the fifth child in a family of nine. His parents, James Savage, from Ireland, a farmer and constable in the New Zealand Armed Constabulary, and Frances Theresa O’Keefe, from Sydney, Australia, married at Opotiki in 1875.

The boy went to the Opotiki and Otara schools, leaving after Standard Four to work on the family farm. He became a capable Shepherd, Drover and Farmhand, and excelled at horse-breaking, which appealed to the fearless, independent and

‘Travis’s Gang’ became proficient in scouting enemy defences and capturing enemy troops.

quick-witted youth. After quarrelling with his father he went to the Gisborne district in 1905, where he found work as a farmhand and driver.

His reputation as a Horse-Breaker grew. After some strife in Gisborne, where he is thought “to have got a young woman into trouble”, he travelled south, broke off all communication with his family, and changed his name to Richard Charles Travis. He arrived in Winton, in 1910, claiming to come from Poverty Bay and even the United States. After working on Southland farms and threshing mills, he was a General Farmhand with Tom Murray, of Ryal Bush. He continued to break horses, and joined an Oddfellows Lodge.

On 20 August 1914 Travis enlisted with the 7th (Southland) Sqn of the Otago Mounted Rifles Regiment in Invercargill. When attested he was five feet six inches tall, weighed 133 pounds, had a fresh complexion, blue eyes and fair hair. His stated next of kin was his fiancée, Lettie Murray, Tom Murray’s daughter.

Dick Travis sailed with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force main body, arriving in Egypt in December 1914. Impatient to see action, he unofficially accompanied his regiment to Gallipoli in May 1915. He was returned to Egypt and got 14 days’ detention. However, he participated in the final weeks of the Gallipoli campaign, moving with impunity between the New Zealand and Turkish trenches on scouting patrols.

A knee injury led to his transfer to the 8th (Southland) Company, 2nd Battalion, Otago Infantry Regiment, on March 27, 1916. He arrived in France in April 1916 and began nocturnal scouting activities in no man’s land between the New Zealand and German trenches, mapping the German defences for the first New Zealand trench raids.

In July 1916 he received special mention in brigade routine orders for a daylight search for wounded New Zealand raiders, recovery of equipment, and night-patrol duty over a six-week period.

He displayed “conspicuous gallantry” on September 15, 1916, eliminating several German snipers during the 2nd Otago Battalion’s advance in the Somme offensive. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal, promoted to Sergeant, and given command of the new Sniper and Observation Section.

‘Travis’s Gang’ became proficient in scouting enemy defences and capturing enemy troops for interrogation. His casual attitude towards rank and dress regulations contrasted with the careful planning, daring and resourcefulness of his anti-sniper work and lone patrols. It was said “his judgement of what the enemy would do under given circumstances sometimes seemed more than human”. He was awarded the Belgian Croix de guerre on February 15, 1918 and the Military Medal in May 1918.

On July 24, 1918 the 2nd Otago Battalion attacked the Germans at Rossignol Wood north of Hébuterne. In daylight before the attack, Travis destroyed an impassable wire block in front of the enemy lines. He then captured two enemy machine-guns, shooting 11 Germans in the process. He was killed by shellfire the following day, and was buried at Couin on July 26.

The entire New Zealand Division mourned the loss of the ‘King of No Man’s Land’. For his “most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty” on July 24, Travis was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross on September 27, 1918. His VC, DCM, MM & Croix de Guerre (Belgium) represent the three highest military decorations it was possible for a Non-Commissioned Officer to win.

Papakura Cadets top drill contest

The Papakura Unit (above)has triumphed in the inaugural New Zealand Cadet Corps Auckland Regional Drill Competition to become the first holder of the Whakatu Waewae Trophy. The Southern Cross Unit was second and North Shore third.

Papakura was led and choreographed by Cdt WO2 Sagapolo and Cdt Sgt Vakisoula.

Papakura won both sections – a compulsory format including most drilled movements, and a freestyle element.

Unit Commander Maj Wayne Sivern was very impressed with the professionalism and commitment shown to training for the competition: “It was great to see the team rewarded for the time and effort put in.”

Whakatu waewae is a type of haka with weapons in which the men jump up and down. It is performed by the war party in front of elders and experienced warriors before going into battle. The performance provides the basis for deciding if the warriors are ready for battle.

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RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

BJ keen to chat up new minister RSANational President BJ Clark looks forward to discussing how the RSA can work with the new Veterans’ Affairs Minister, David Bennett (above), to support New Zealand’s 41,000 Returned Service Personnel, and the tens of thousands who have served in New Zealand.

The Hamilton East MP is also the Minister for Food Safety and Associate Minister for Immigration and Transport. He has held the Hamilton East seat since 2008.

Born and raised in Hamilton, he has a Bachelor of Laws with Honours and a Bachelor of Commerce and Administration. He worked for accountancy firm KPMG in Auckland before going into dairy farming. He owns two dairy farms between Ohaupo and Pirongia, in the Waikato.

A TALE OF TWO FIGHT-BACKS Kelly Deeks The secret to saving two financially troubled RSAs has been the hard work and generosity of dedicated members and committees volunteering and donating their time to provide services.

Both the Rotorua and Levin RSAs have been working to redeem their financial security over the past two years, since dwindling membership and high overheads had them on a fast track to insolvency. Both are now back in the black and considering their next moves towards a sustainable future.

The Rotorua RSA called last orders in July 2015 after deciding years of ongoing losses were no longer sustainable.

Eleven staff lost their jobs, and the RSA’s building, which it owned outright, was sold. The club’s museum was closed, and about $80,000 worth of military memorabilia was sold to the Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust – the collection has been displayed at the Rotorua Museum.

After the sale of the RSA’s headquarters,

RSA funds freed for natural disasters From page 2

received assistance, says BJ Clark. “Helping others in general is at the heart of what we do.”

The day after the Kaikoura earthquake, the RSA Presidents’ Forum was held in Wellington, and the magnitude of the effects of the Kaikoura quake were revealed through the day.

There was talk about the RSAs Canterbury Earthquake Appeal Trust, which had funds left over from the nationwide appeal after the Canterbury quakes.

Those funds were not fully used up, and the presidents talked about making those available for any region affected by a natural disaster.

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“We wanted to create a nationwide emergency relief fund to be administered by the National Office,” says Stan Hansen.

“We’ve changed the deed and those funds are now available to those people in Kaikoura who have a need for anything outside of their insurance claims. We’re now receiving requests for assistance from people who have a need, and we’re fulfilling that obligation to them.

“It’s not only for Kaikoura, it’s for anyone in New Zealand who has suffered from a natural disaster. It’s not only a Canterbury initiative, it’s a whole-nation initiative as far as we’re concerned, and it gives us a good warm feeling that we can help people out.”

William McDonald (left and Wayne Kaye... their RSAs have many issues in common.

membership dropped from 1288 to a little more than 100.

With its 100-year anniversary approaching in 2016, Rotorua RSA was determined to reach its centenary, and beyond. Support from individuals, groups and businesses, both locally and nationally, was humbling and kept Rotorua RSA going through the hard times, says President William McDonald.

Debts have been cleared, capital invested, and the aim is a small operating surplus this year.

He says the key has been the provision of most services through members’ voluntary labour and strict financial management. The Executive Committee took a pragmatic approach by offering only services valued by Members and Associates.

Membership is now approaching 500.

“Participation is rising again because of the extensive welfare services we provide through our re-established Poppy Trust, the many commemorative activities we promote, and the Copthorne luncheons on Pension Tuesdays which have been running since October and have seen a regular turn-out of 50 to 60. We are trialling Friday-night raffles at the Arawa Park Racecourse – that’s an open invitation, you don’t have to be a member to attend.”

A new strategic plan will see member services grow steadily this year. A new public relations plan keeps the community informed about events and updates – a monthly newsletter is sent by both email and post, and the Association’s Facebook page and website has been revamped.

William says the objective is to draw in the younger generations and boost membership in the under-50 bracket, which currently sits at five members out of 500.

Rotorua RSA Treasurer Tom Attwood says building a new building is the easy part its sustaining it that is difficult.

“We haven’t closed anything off at this stage.

Options need to be explained and examined in detail, and it’s something we won’t rush into. In the meantime we haven’t lost any of our capital.”

The Levin RSA’s building has been on the market since 2015. Plan A is to sell it and lease it back; plan B is to retain it, and lease out part of it. Staff were made redundant, but came back as volunteers to run the RSA; 20 months later, it is back on the right side of the financial ledger.

President Wayne Kaye says the financial trouble started with the struggle to attract new, young members.

“Even in the past year we’ve lost a lot our older members, into their 90s. Our target is to bring in younger families – they are the people who need to be involved.” He says many of his present Committee are from a lower age-group.

Initiatives include a 100 Club open to Members and public. You pay $10 a week for the year and a number is drawn every Friday night with the winner taking home $500.

“The surplus from that is going towards paying off and breaking down our mortgage. But that’s not the major problem, it’s the total overheads.

Keeping up this property is a big overhead. At the moment we’re meeting our commitments, and we’re up to 400 members.”

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RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

National

‘WE NEED TO CHANGE THE WAY WE HAVE CARRIED OUT OUR SUPPORT ROLE’ BJ Clark, RSA National President I would like to formally acknowledge the change of leadership in the National Office. We bid farewell to David Moger shortly before Christmas, and I would like to acknowledge the passion, commitment and leadership he brought to the role and wish him well in his new role.

I also welcome RADM Jack Steer (Retd) into the position of Chief Executive of RNZRSA and note he has hit the ground running at top speed.

Jack brings a genuine desire to see the support for our veterans delivered to the very best of our ability, and he is working very hard to find the required resource to do so.

We are already well into the new year and the board and forum will shortly meet to formulate our Strategy Plan. It is of concern to me that we spend too much time looking to the past, regurgitating historical suspicions and issues, and not taking a positive, collaborative approach to ensure we are all working together to provide the support we were founded to do.

One of the areas I believe we need to review is the running/function of National Council.

For too long it has been a venue where remits have taken up most of the time and there has been little or no opportunity to engage with RSAs about the future.

National Council is the one time in a year when we have a large number of our RSAs gathered together, and it provides an occasion that could be better used to plan a positive future. I intend to give this matter a great deal of thought and liaise with RSAs to develop a more efficient use of our time.

We need to change the way we have carried out our support role. It is important that we are relevant not only to our older Veterans, but we also need to be able to react quickly to the needs of the modern cohort. It is not about where or when you served, it is “you served and we will support you”, and we must honour that commitment to the very best of our ability.

We must also work with any other group that can assist in the support/care of our Veterans, such as Defence, Veterans’ Affairs, No Duff and The Fallen Heroes Trust. Support is not about scoring points for one agency; it is about a cohesive plan to achieve a positive outcome.

I have regular meetings with the Chief of Navy, RADM John Martin, so that we can improve the working relationship between the RSA and Defence. These meetings are honest and open and have been an invaluable opportunity to understand the needs of today’s service personnel and how we can be there to support them.

The meetings have allowed our Support Manager, Mark Compain, to brief RADM Martin on the programmes our support services have to provide assistance to the service personnel and also for RADM Martin to tell us what he sees as their needs.

Our desire is to work with serving personnel wherever they are. A positive outcome of these

meetings is that Defence arranged for me to visit a group of our Service Personnel serving overseas just before Christmas.

It was a great opportunity to see what they were up to, to chat to them about their service, and to inform them about some of our initiatives.

It was also excellent to find a number of them were members of various RSAs. I also took the opportunity to personally hand over some of the RSA Christmas gift parcels.

The National Office has since received a number of letters of appreciation from those overseas who received the parcels. A considerable amount of work goes into producing the parcels and we should acknowledge Countdown, Defence personnel, National Office staff and those RSAs around the country that are able to financially contribute to the initiative.

I look forward to working with RSAs to ensure we are there when our veteran community needs our support.

BOARD MAKES BUSY START TO YEAR Phillip Meyer, Chair RNZRSA Board Your Board has made a busy start to the year with a number of initiatives well under way.

The Governance Programme is in train around the nation and the feedback we have received has been positive and gratifying.

Feedback is telling us this Programme should be continued and extended so that all RSA committee members have the opportunity to participate. We have further Programmes

arranged in major centres of the North Island and, by the end of March, around 200 RSA members will have completed this Certificate Programme.

The response to this Board initiative has been very encouraging and has highlighted the value of developing a good understanding of governance and fiduciary responsibilities within RSAs. Your Board has also commenced the work

of drafting our updated Constitution. The Incorporated Societies Act of 1908 is being updated and we have been drafting our constitution so that it will be consistent with the provisions of the new act.

A particular focus has been to draft the Constitution around enduring principles rather than rules, which will provide flexibility for RSAs to adapt their own arrangements to suit their

Awards night at Templeton Two Gold Stars, one Merit Badge and six Life Memberships were presented at an awards evening at the Templeton RSA, just south of Christchurch, in early December.“ A very good turn-out of family and club members” applauded the awards and enjoyed the entertainment that followed.

PHOTO – The official party: Back row (from left), John Rae (President, Templeton RSA), Stan Hansen (RSA Canterbury District President), Bukit Hill (RSA National Vice-President), Bruce Kenyon (RNZRSA Gold Star), Paul Kissel (Templeton Life Member), Neil Ure (Templeton Life Member), Dave Sands (RNZRSA Gold Star).

Front row (from left), Margaret Brown (Templeton Life Member), Ray Salisbury (Templeton Life Member), Bernie Ward (Templeton Life Member), Val Kenyon (Templeton Life Member), Bette Miles (RNZRSA Merit Badge)

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own circumstances without the need to seek dispensation from the national office.

A by-laws section will be included to provide RSAs with up-to-date, standard-form governance documents in template form . These will include RSA charters, codes of ethics, trust deeds, committee charters, work plans, a health and safety reporting framework, and many useful templates RSAs can use as reference material and copy.

The Board will keep these up to date and will also include the various acts RSAs might have to comply with. These will include the Charities Act, the Liquor licensing Act and the Gaming Act. We will be conducting a series of consultation sessions over the next few months to explain the new constitution and how it is envisaged working, and to seek feedback to help us to meet the needs of RSAs in specific areas.

We have also made changes to the delegated authority of our support services personnel so that low-value work can be eliminated and the high-value work of supporting Veterans and their families can be the focus.

I will keep you informed of your Board’s work through regular updates. The Board and Management of RNZRSA wish you a very healthy and prosperous year.

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7

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

RSA WITH A VIEW: Alistair Kerr

‘PRIOR APPROVAL’ HARKS BACK TO ‘OLD DAYS’ I wonder how our members view the Executive Committee (Exec) of their RSAs? Think for a minute. What about your Exec? Do you know any of its Members individually? Do you ever discussed Exec business with a Member? Have you ever been to any of its meetings? Have you ever considered putting yourself forward as a candidate for the Exec?

On the other hand, how well does your Exec keep in touch with you and ‘rank and file’ members? How well informed are you about its work? Can you see an easily-accessible copy of the minutes every month? Do Exec members ‘circulate’, perhaps seeking opinion on issues?

Except when, on the very rare occasion an Exec does something very unusual or unpopular, it’s probably fair to say that as long as the Club is running well, most members don‘t give it a thought.

Being an Exec member can involve a great deal of work beyond the monthly meetings.

Like so many such groups, there is no doubt a few who contribute little in ideas or effort. But if my experience is any indication, most Members choose to serve out of a genuine desire to help.

Some, in fact, serve for many years.

All these questions were sparked off when, as a Member of a Committee looking at adopting

the new national standard rules, I read No. 34c which says, “Any financial Member may, as an observer, attend the monthly meetings of the Executive Committee if they get prior approval from the President or SecretaryManager “ [My italics]. Oh! Really??? Really?

Can they be serious about this absurd ruling.

What has happened to the universally accepted concept of “transparent, open governance and management”? if ever there was a body that should uphold this ideal, it is our RSA. This ruling, to me at least, harks back to the “old days” when the RSA was, understandably, almost exclusively the domain of a group, of tightly-bonded Returned Members, when “outsiders” were tolerated but not always included and, really, not very welcome in the “inner sanctum” of the Exec Committee room.

As each RSA moves towards establishing itself as a family-centred, desirable social venue and as our Associate Members increasingly take up

the challenge of governing the clubs, I believe this principle is of more importance than ever.

We have to practise what we preach as being an open, upright and trustworthy part of our communities.

Each RSA should be encouraging all its Members to interact with its Exec Committee.

Members should be kept fully informed of what is coming up on the next agenda, and the minutes of all meetings should be circulated as widely as possible each month. For example, try putting a copy of last month’s minutes on your lounge tables.

“But!’ I hear you say, “they are only confirmed at the next meeting.” True, but put the words SUBJECT TO CONFIRMATION at the top, and where’s the problem? “But people will only pick on the contentious bits”, I hear some exec members saying. So? At least they’ll be thinking and asking questions about Club matters.

After all, surely you don’t accept a place on that

Committee and expect it will be praise all the time While physical and practical limitations require most Execs to meet behind closed doors, why not, just once in a while, have a totally open meeting in front of whoever is in the clubrooms at that time? Impossible? I think not. Try it and see.

Closer engagement between Members and Exec will prevent the foreseeable situation of “They” and “Us”, which often occurs when the rank and file don’t know much, if anything, about what their exec is doing. Every RSA has to be aware of the need to develop and maintain a positive, inclusive atmosphere in its clubrooms.

Of course, in practical terms , it’s unlikely that any Exec Committee practising this “open governance” will regularly have to put out more chairs for crowds of observers. But I am absolutely certain that a well publicised effort to advertise, attract and inform about the exec’s meetings can only be positive.

I challenge any Member of the National Executive committee, in next issue of the RSA Review, to explain and and justify this discordant, exclusive rule. Or better still, be gracious and say, “OK, we were wrong about that. We’ll just leave out the words about ”getting prior approval” . That would be such a positive move.

Good luck with it .

The RSA joined forces with other organisations to show what it can offer Soldiers stationed at Burnham Camp. The Expo, organised by the New Zealand Defence Force, aimed to connect Serving Personnel with Support Providers.

RSA Support Services Manager Mark Compain and Canterbury District Support Adviser Eddie Bassett agreed it was a fantastic opportunity to showcase what RSA Support involves.

“The event helped show what we have on offer for Service Personnel and their dependents, including those currently serving,” says Mark.

“It was also a chance to introduce our working relationships with groups such as Veterans’ Affairs and NO DUFF, and to dispel any misconceptions about what it is we do – mainly, that only the older Service community can benefit.

“That’s definitely not the case. The RSA

supports all Service Personnel, regardless of their age or operational service, and we have options to suit them.”

Templeton, Christchurch and Papanui RSA Executive Members promoted support at a local level. Templeton was represented by a NZ Army NCO (which Mark says “put a friendly young face to support work”) and an ex-Servicewoman who volunteered for a RSA Support Services role.

The RSA’s invitation to the Expo came through Eddie Bassett’s connections with the Support and Service communities. He has encouraged many reluctant Veterans to contact the Pennington Returned Serviceman’s Trust, which offers grants of up to $500 for Veterans needing a break.

Mark Compain says he hopes to see more RSAs “taking these steps to develop a model just like this”.

What has happened to the concept of transparent, open governance and management?

Expo proves ‘a fantastic opportunity’ for RSA to connect with serving Soldiers

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RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Defence Matters

SOLDIERS CHARGED WITH PROTECTING NZ TRADE INTERESTS Luz Baguloro Public Affairs Manager – Joint Forces New Zealand

The chief of air force, AVM Tony Davies (left), extends best wIshes to mission leader Wg Cdr Daniel Hunt.

A 55-strong New Zealand Defence Force contingent and an Air Force P3K2 Orion are now in the Middle East as part of an international partnership against piracy, and people and drug trafficking.

These troops will help patrol 3.2 million square miles of international water to support the United States-led Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) over the next 12 months.

Joint Forces New Zealand Commander MajGenTim Gall said says the first rotation of Personnel left New Zealand on February 7, with the Orion following three days later.

“Through this mission, we will help protect vital trade routes around the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.”

The CMF is a 31-nation Naval partnership that promotes maritime security and seeks to defeat

HELICOPTERS EARN RIGHT TO SEA ROLE Rebecca Quilliam Editor, Air Force News Their performance on HMNZS Canterbury during the Kaikoura earthquake late last year has broadened the NH90 helicopter’s role within the New Zealand Force.

This development has vastly increased the countries they can travel to for disaster response, says No 3 Squadron Commanding Officer WgCdr Scott McKenzie.

“We are able to transfer Personnel and stores from ship to shore or reverse, and we can also refuel on the ship “That gives us a greater range and a greater capability, especially for HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) or earthquake response.”

The NH90s can perform tasks regardless of whether the ship is moving, he says.

“I think it’s a fantastic capability that can operate all around New Zealand and further afield, such as the south-west Pacific and beyond.”

Those involved in developing the capability – Maintenance, Supply, Air Crew – have done an enormous amount of work, he says.

“We’ve also worked with the Australian Navy and No. 6 Sqn during the process. So we’ve had great support. It has been a big team effort on the back of an intense period with earthquake recovery operations.”

Canterbury Commanding Officer Cdr Simon Rooke says this significantly enhances the capability his ship can deliver on behalf of the whole of the Defence Force.

“Having the NH90s now being to operate from

A NH90 helicopter at work on HMNZS Canterbury during the post-earthquake operation at Kaikoura.

the ship opens up so many more capabilities for us. For the Navy, it’s just a further extension of our joint services, given that we’ve had Air Force Personnel within our Naval flights for more than years with the Wasps and now the Seasprites.”

Until now the NH90s could be shipped, but could operate only from shore.

“Now we have integrated the NH90 capability, if we’re in a remote location they can come with us to that location and then they lodge ashore.

More importantly, they can pick up fuel and transport cargo and people.”

Tthe NH90s will also be able to operate from the HMNZS Endeavour replacement and the littoral off-shore support ship.

This embarked capability will be developed further in conjunction with Exercise Southern Katipo on the South Island’s West Coast this year.

Photo: Air Force News

terrorism and prevent piracy and people and drug trafficking. Mission Commander WgCdr Daniel Hunt says the New Zealanders are valued “because of our high mission success rate in 2015 and the unique capabilities of our Orion”.

The 2015 last NZDF Orion mission in support of the CMF ran 174 maritime surveillance flights involving about 1400 flying hours over 16 months to December 2015. It also helped the CMF locate and intercept vessels attempting to smuggle drugs worth nearly $NZ500 million.

WgCdr Hunt expects the challenges to come from operating in a hot and dry environment.

“Temperature is less of an issue when you are airborne, but before and after the flights the heat poses challenges to those working in and around the aircraft.”

EgCdr Hunt, Commanding Officer of the Air Force’s No. 5 Squadron until this year, has completed three tours in the Middle East. He has also been in to South-East Asia, the South Pacific, Europe and the Caribbean.

Kiwi engineers head to build fence in Sinai Luz Baguloro Public Affairs Manager – Joint Forces New Zealand Thirty-three Army Engineers have been sent to Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula for a six-month stint in to build a fence that will help improve security for International Peacekeepers.

Joint Forces New Zealand Commander MajGen Tim Gall says the Engineers, from the 2nd Engineer Regiment, will be building a fence around the Multinational Force & Observers’ South Camp.

“The security fence will improve physical protection at the camp, which is the base for the international organisation with peacekeeping responsibilities in the Sinai Peninsula.

The New Zealand Defence Force has been contributing a Transport Section, Training and Advisor y Staff, and a number of Staff positions to the MFO since it was established in 1982.

The New Zealand Government has extended the NZDF’s contribution towards the MFO to July 2018.

At present, 26 NZDF members form part of the MFO’s Force around 1700 from 12 countries.

After operating at North Camp for more than 30 years, the mission’s headquarters moved to South Camp in the middle of last year because of the deteriorating security situation in North Sinai.

New facilities are being built to accommodate the influx into South Camp and assistance has been requested with some of the infrastructure improvements.

The NZDF Engineering contingent – Combat Engineers, Carpenters, Plumbers, Maintenance Fitters and Electricians – is led by Lt Tom Gilbert, a 23-year-old Army Engineer.

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10

Defence Matters

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

KAIKOURA QUAKE: ‘INTERNATIONAL NAVY’ TO RESCUE A minor flotilla of New Zealand and international warships offered a lot of flexibility for the Navybased relief for Kaikoura and North Canterbury in the days following the 7.8 earthquake.in November.

Destroyer USS Sampson and frigates HMNZS Te Kaha, HMCS Vancouver and HMAS Darwin broke off from exercises near Auckland – part of the Royal New Zealand Navy’s 75th anniversary celebrations – to follow HMNZS Canterbury and HMNZS Wellington to Kaikoura, while HMNZS Endeavour restocked.

Helicopters capable of airlifting supplies and evacuating residents were a key resource, and the international ships added another four to the pool.

The Commanding Officer of Sampson, of Canterbury’s Cdr Tim LaBenz says they offered any kind of support they could.

13 chefs “On receiving the cooked first signal our assistance may be necesmore than sary, we immediately 1000 meals made our way south as part of the Task Group. on the on We have helicopters and on-board expertise the 450 to assist in a multitude of areas.” evacuees’ International help also came from the skies with the US Navy and Japan deploying maritime patrol craft to view the extent of the damage to roads. .

Joint Forces New Zealand Commander MajGen Tim Gall welcomed the offers.

“The ships, crews and maritime helicopters provided by our partner militaries gave us a great deal of flexibility in supporting the national relief effort.”

There’s an enduring image of Wellington’s Commanding Officer helping a Kaikoura tourist onto one of his inflatables.

“I’ve had a few hugs and kisses from old ladies,” says LtCdr Matt Kaio. Wellington was the first navy ship to arrive in Kaikoura after the 7.8 earthquake.

The ship was in Auckland when the call came from Joint Forces New Zealand: you’re going to Kaikoura with Canterbury. You’re the best suited.

Despite operating on limited information, the Wellington/Canterbury combination proved itself during humanitarian relief operations in Fiji after Cyclone Winston.”

“We had an hour at anchor, then recalled the ship’s company,” says LtCdr Kaio. “We told them

Published with permission of Navy Today ‘We’re sailing, be back here by 2100 hours.”

A group from the Littoral Warfare Unit also came aboard to survey the sea floor around the Kaikoura Peninsula, and inflatables were transferred between the two ships.

Wellington arrived in Kaikoura at sunrise, two hours ahead of Canterbury. Surveying came first in preparation for Canterbury’s landing craft, while Wellington kept a 20-metre depth under its keel. Wellington moved to the other side of the Kaikoura Peninsula to carry out seabed surveys.

After staying overnight at anchor, Wellington returned to Auckland – in time to don tunics and man the rails for the salute to the governor general – part of the navy’s 75th anniversary.

New meteorological sensors developed by the Defence Technology Agency and only just installed on Wellington were a key element in managing the evacuation. Accurate forecasting of weather for helicopter and small-boat operations was essential, but loss of communication with MetService’s automatic weather station at Kaikoura meant vital local observations were not available.

A quick link-up between the NZDF and MetService led to Wellington stepping in and providing observations directly to forecasters from a newly-installed weather station on the ship.

Navy Meteorologist LtCdr Bronwyn Heslop says weather observations from Navy ships are usually reported only on New Zealand Defence Force networks. In this situation, they were sent by email to MetService every hour.

“When we specified the system we never thought about forecasting for disaster relief,” she says. “But, as the system is the standard for MetService, our data meets the standard for inclusion in their system.”

Once Wellington and the Littoral Warfare Unit had surveyed the Kaikoura seabed, the way was clear for Canterbury to use its landing craft. The ship rescued 640 residents and tourists, 450 of them on the first day, along with 9.3 tonnes of baggage.

Canterbury’s Cdr Simon Rooke says having 450 evacuees on board was less than ideal in terms of accommodation and places to sleep.

Canterbury’s 13 chefs cooked more than 1000 meals on the five-hour trip to Lyttelton where supplies were loaded for Kaikoura. .

He says staying in Auckland for the International Naval Review was not an option: “At a time of need, the Navy should be able to provide the resources and support to the

HMZNS Te Kaha leads Kaikoura’s international task force into Wellington Harbour. In order behind Te Kaha are HMCS Vanvouver, HMAS Darwin, HMNZS Endeavour, USS Sampson.

Think a Formula One pit stop, but with rotor blades and aviator’s glasses. country, and we’ve done that with the Air Force and the Army.”

Among the items brought on board were 30,000 bees, one cat and 17 dogs “Many people took what they could fit into a suitcase or two, and this would be the things closest to their hearts. One of the evacuees just could not leave his bees behind. I smiled when I read the cargo manifest just before we sailed.

It is the type of entry you’d probably see if they did an inventory of what went into Noah’s Ark.” The fleet tanker, HMNZS Endeavour was the seventh navy ship to arrive at Kaikoura. On the way from Auckland. It took on 30 pallets of stores

in Wellington the help of army personnel. The stores,and fuel were used to restock the task force of Te Kaha, Darwin, Sampson and Vancouver.

Endeavour Executive Officer LtCdr David Barr says that in normal circumstances, Endeavour would have topped up the visiting ships with fuel and rations in Auckland.

“That’s the nature of responding to a disaster though – you make sure you have enough food and fuel to last the initial few days on station, and trust that someone will come and sustain you.”

On arrival at Kaikoura, Endeavour refuelled Sampson and Vancouver, restocked all four ships, and then released 12 sailors for relief work on shore.

LtCdr Barr says Endeavour is always at 30 minutes’ notice to replenish fuel, or to do helicopter in-flight refuelling.

“Essentially the helicopter will fly alongside the ship, we will pass them a hose, and they will refuel from us while in the air – think a Formula One pit stop but with rotor blades and aviator’s glasses.”

Endeavour remained in the area until the international task force dispersed.

Close to 16,000 Iraqi Soldiers have been through Kiwi Trainers’ hands About 100 New Zealand Army Soldiers who had been training Iraqi Security Forces since April returned home late in November.

The third rotation of Task Group Taji, the combined New Zealand-Australia Training Force based in Iraq’s Camp Taji, trained about 9000 soldiers from five Iraqi Army Brigades during a six-month tour. Nearly 16,000 Iraqi Security Forces have been trained by the task group since their mission began in May 2015.

“Some of the Soldiers have never fired more than a few rounds with their rifle before,” says New Zealand Defence Force Vice-Chief, AVM Kevin Short “We aim to not only increase their proficiency in the use of their personal weapons, but to have them operating better together as a

Kiwi trainers get their feet back on New Zealand territory.

unit. It is this cohesion that makes them more effective operationally.”

An Iraqi Soldier wounded in battle credited his training in combat first-aid, which included how to put on a tourniquet, for helping save his life.

The New Zealand Government announced in June that it had extended the NZDF contribution to the training mission until November 2018.

Around six to eight Personnel from the NZDF Training and Force Protection Team are now

travelling for short periods to another secure training location.

New Zealand Soldiers are now able to train stabilisation forces such as the Iraqi Border Guards in addition to the Iraqi Army.

The programme of instruction is based on individual Soldier skills, including weapons handling, and marksmanship at close quarters and longer ranges.

The training includes combat first-aid, obstacle breaching techniques, and counter-improvised explosive device and explosive hazard awareness training.

In addition, all Iraqi Security Forces are taught the fundamentals of international human rights law and the law of armed conflict.

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RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Middle East

OBSERVATIONS FROM THE MIDDLE EAST If both sides accuse you of favouring the other, then you’re probably about right. It’s an old maxim for those in the middle of a tricky or delicate situation, and after 12 months as a United Nations Military Observer on the Israel-Syria border area of the Golan Heights, Capt Gerard Peoples tells RSA Review editor Dion Crooks he reckons it still rings pretty true.

“You’ve got to be mindful of the various sensitivities and maintain a very impartial stance,” he says. You don’t want to be seen to be favouring one side or the other.”

A lot of it comes down to the ability of United Nations Observers to work closely together and keep one another well informed, their ability to pay attention to detail, and their ability to develop a good understanding of the overall situation so that they can put what they observe in context.

Gerard, a Police Sergeant stationed in Christchurch and also a Captain in the New Zealand Army Reserves with 2/4 Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, deployed as a Captain to Israel in mid-2015 for 12 months as a United Nations observer.

Since his return home, he has remained with the New Zealand Army full-time and is now an Infantry Captain based at Burnham Military Camp, near Christchurch.

In Israel he was one of eight New Zealanders deployed as Observers to the unarmed United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (known as UNTSO), which has its headquarters in Jerusalem.

UNTSO, formed in 1948, was the first UN peacekeeping mission. It has been through many changes and has faced many challenges.

Currently, UNTSO Observers are primarily attached to two larger UN missions – the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon

Capt Gerard Peoples on the Golan Heights, overlooking Tiberias

(UNIFIL). UNDOF is a lightly armed force of 800plus Soldiers stationed on the Golan Heights to monitor compliance with the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement signed between Israel and Syria after the 1973 Yom Kippur War. UNIFIL is an armed force of more than 10,000 Soldiers formed in 1978 to oversee the Israeli withdrawal

from South Lebanon; it has remained in place during that area’s turbulent recent history.

UNTSO’s current Commander, or “Head of Mission”, is MajGen David Gawn, a former New Zealand Chief of Army. Three other New Zealanders held senior Staff positions during Gerard’s time there.

New Zealand has had Officers deployed to UNTSO since 1954.

“We have a relatively small number of Personnel deployed on the mission, but, given our long history and the senior positions we have held, we make quite a significant contribution,” says Gerard.

Golan ‘most peaceful of Israel’s borders’ for around 40 years One of the suppositions about peacekeeping is that there has to be a peace before you can keep it. Which is where the United Nations Military Observers come in. Their role is to monitor and report on what the various protagonists are up to, with the aim of preserving that peace.

The United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (known as UNTSO) is the original UN peacekeeping mission. ]It was set up in May 1948 to maintain the integrity of the armistice signed between Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and the newly formed State of Israel – a mandate that gives UNTSO freedom of movement in all five countries.

Subsequent peace treaties between Israel and Egypt and between Israel and Jordan have seen UNTSO concentrate its efforts on Israel’s borders with Syria and Lebanon.

UNTSO has two primary operations – Observer Group Golan (OGG) which comes under the operational control of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Israeli Occupied Golan (as it is officially termed, although we know it better as the Golan Heights) border area with Syria, and Observer Group

Capt Gerard Peoples (right) with a Major from Estonia who was a observation colleague.

They are by the Mediterranean coast near the crossing point between Israel and Lebanon.

Lebanon (OGL) which comes under the operational control of UNIFIL in southern Lebanon.

These two Observer groups face very different political and security environments, and work quite independently. Observers generally remain

in one of these areas for their deployment.

Formed under a Security Council resolution of May 31, 1974, UNDOF is charged with helping Israel and Syria observe their 1974 Agreement on Disengagement, which followed the end of the Yom Kippur War between Israel and Syria.

Its role is to maintain the ceasefire between the two countries, to supervise the disengagement of Israeli and Syrian armed forces, and to supervise the Area of Separation and Areas of Limitation set up under the agreement.

The Area of Separation between Israeli occupied Golan and Syria established by the 1974 agreement is a demilitarised zone – no military personnel or equipment are allowed in. Extending outwards on both sides of the Area of Separation are Areas of Limitation set at distances of 10, 20 and 25 kilometres. Strict rules limit the number and type of military equipment allowed in each area, plus restrictions on their movements.

To monitor these areas, Observer Group Golan (OGG) is divided into Observer Group Golan – Tiberias (OGG-T), which conducts operations from the Israeli side, and Observer Group Golan – Damascus (OGG-D), which

until recently conducted operations from the Syrian side. While the conflict in Syria saw the withdrawal of OGG-D Personnel in 2013, moves have been taken to return to the Syrian side as the situation allows.

The aim of the Area of Separation and Areas of Limitation buffer is to provide a means of limiting any outburst and prevent escalation into full-scale war. And, despite the doubters who regard the UN as toothless, the system has been successful.

As Gerard Peoples points out, Israeli Occupied Golan has for around 40 years been, until the recent Syrian crisis, the most peaceful of Israel’s borders.

The core role of OGG Observers is to observe and report breaches of the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement. These reports find their way to UN headquarters in New York, and, from there, are usually handled at diplomatic level. Once again, despite public scepticism about much of diplomacy, Gerard says the diplomatic processes and efforts (“which many don’t appreciate”) have generally got the messages through.

Observations from the Middle East 13

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

PROSPECTS TACKLE ‘QUITE EXHAUSTIVE’ INDUCTION AND ASSESSMENT TEST Getting through the initial selection process is no guarantee you’ll make it to a United Nations military observation post.

Gerard Peoples says the Middle East has long interested him because of its “incredible history”, religious significance and the number of different cultures living together there. He had also met a lot of people who had been on deployment there, and saw an opportunity to expand his professional development and experience.

As a Captain in the New Zealand Army Reserves, formerly the Territorials (he transferred from the Regulars in 1997), he held the necessary rank for an Observer – Captain/Major (Army), Flight Lieutenant/Squadron Leader (Air Force) or Lieutenant/Lieutenant Commander (Navy).

In addition, he had qualifications from various military courses, and was able to take a one-year release from his Police career.

He has also been on two previous overseas deployments during his time with the Army Reserves .

He was Second-in-Command of the Liaison and Observation Team Sector, based at Banja Luka, in Bosnia Herzegovina in 2005, and Second-in-Command of a 120-strong infantry rifle company in East Timor in 2007.

But, like all Observers in United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO), he had to undergo a rigorous induction and assessment process.

In Israel around 20 prospective Observers (the monthly intake) are put through a wideranging induction week in Jerusalem. They are then despatched to either the Golan or to southern Lebanon where they have six weeks of on-the-job induction training before sitting the exhaustive “Chief’s Challenge” assessment, which deems whether or not they are competent to carry out Observer duties.

They are tested on recognition and knowledge of the military equipment they may encounter (weapons, armour, artillery and aviation), the layout of the land and landmarks, the detailed history of and current situation in their areas, driving (including a test) and first-aid (including the handling of a scenario).

The induction is run on a team Capt Gerard Peoples at the Australian Light Horse monument in Beer Sheba. Erected in November 1914, basis, with each team responsible for the monument is dedicated to the memory of the Australian Light Horse regiment in the British Army. preparing people for the test.

During his time in the Middle East, Gerard and his family were able to travel quite extensively.

Gerard Peoples describes the process as “quite exhaustive” with “a very high stand- razor-wire rolls and fences separated us from involved in work such as training staff in their ard” required at the end of it; some have to do local rebel Islamic fighters. And that UNDOF ability to observe and record, developing security re-tests. Not all make it through this rigorous and UNTSO personnel, including 45 Fijians in measures for observation posts, and overseeing series of tests and exercises, and those who 2014, had been taken captive by these groups training activities, such as first aid and evacudon’t return home. ation procedures. in recent years.

Driving – influenced by unfamiliar four-wheel“Fresh eyes are helpful in tweaking the opera“So, we always had to be prepared for any drive vehicles and supplementary equipment, eventuality.” tion, and experience as an observer brings terrain of a different nature, and the climate – is While the observation posts have been in place greater insight in the greater scheme of things. an issue many struggle with. for many years, recent additions to physical Headquarters staff are also needed to cover At Observer Group Golan-Tiberias (OGG-T), defences such as new bomb shelters, strengthened training activities.” where Gerard was stationed, the Observers are viewing platforms and protective concrete walls Whereas observation provides a bit of excitebroken down into three teams, each responsible have significantly changed their appearance. ment and an element of stress through necesfor two observation posts .

A few months later Gerard took on a staff sary watchfulness, the biggest enemy at staff The pattern is that they do observation duty position in OGG Headquarters. There he became headquarters can be frustration. for four to five months – on the factory floor, so to speak. Some continue as Team Leaders while others are expected to move into staff positions (office jobs) at Observer Group Golan (OGG) or Observer Group Lebanon (OGL) headquarters or in UNTSO headquarters in Jerusalem.

After three months as an Observer, Gerard was appointed leader of his team of 15 observers.

“New Zealanders are often placed in leadership positions, even though you may be a Captain leading a team mostly made up of Majors”, he says. “Everyone respects the position and we get on with the job.”

One of the challenges he faced was refining effective stand-to and evacuation procedures incorporating the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) security elements at one of the observation posts on the Syrian side of the Israeli-constructed security fence.

“We were always mindful that only a few

We were always mindful that only a few razor-wire rolls and fences separated us from local rebel Islamic fighters...So, we always had to be prepared for any eventuality.

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14 Observations from the Middle East

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

‘‘It’s certainly a worthwhile exercise,” Capt Gerard Peoples (seen here on duty in an observation post in the Golan area near Tiberias, Israel) says of the United Nations Observer programme in the Middle East.

‘ALWAYS SOMETHING HAPPENING TO REPORT’ In Observer Group Golan –Tiberias (OGG-T), groups of three observers (a senior and two others, and not necessarily the same three every time) man the Observation Posts (OPs).

Observers not rostered on OP duty carry out vehicle patrols and inspection duties.

A group lives in an OP for a week at a time– it’s set up like a small flat, with a very small bedroom each, a kitchenette and an observation platform. In addition to the Observers, there is a small security element attached to OPs located on the Syrian side of the Israeli security fence.

Observation is around the clock, with each group working out the detailed mechanics of how they operate. Each team is responsible for two OPs.

While there is an Officer-in-Charge, the military hierarchy goes out the door to a degree, with teams operating on a first-name basis.

“It’s certainly a worthwhile exercise,” Gerard says of observation and reporting. “While the United Nations operation has been very successful in this area, there is always something happening to observe and report.”

The Golan OPs present a grandstand view across to regular conflict involving artillery, machine-gun and tank fire, and air strikes.

With the Damascus-based OPs out of action because of the surrounding conflict, Gerard Peoples was based very much on the Israeli side of the buffer zone.

“Although we felt secure,” he says, “you were

aware you were close to a war zone and you were aware and mindful of the risks –you got a feel for the status of the conflict that was going on.

But we were well equipped and there was considerable emphasis on security – maintaining standing operational procedures for evacuation and seeking shelter, a strict programme of training in first aid, dealing with incidents and seeking assistance.”

The significant change in the Israel/Syria situation over the last three or four years has led to significant development on the OPs and their surrounds – strengthening with reinforced concrete, boundary fencing, and more stringent security.

Camp Zioani, the UNDOF (United Nations

immense value from the wider experience of living in this part of Israel.

“It was quite surreal being exposed to an active war zone during our times at the observation posts, especially when on the Syrian side of the Israeli security fence, and then returning to Tiberias when we had our time off.”

Tiberias, on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, is the largest centre of population in the area and was a popular place with New Zealand Soldiers (his wife’s grandfather among them) on leave from the North African desert campaign during World War 2.

“We received an allowance from the United Nations and organised our own accommodation.

We lived as part of the local community,” says Gerard. “We had a very good local family as our landlord – they were very friendly and we were almost part of the family. We learnt a great deal about their culture, religion and the country.

“This also gave us the ability to experience things of historical and religious significance, and to travel to other parts of Israel (Gerard did a four-day work training exchange with Observer Group Lebanon) and parts of Europe.”

And, to prove they were right up with the play, the New Zealand Observer contingent made sure they were at UNTSO headquarters to watch the All Blacks beat Australia win the 2016 World Cup rugby final.

Commendation a personal and national boost Gerard Peoples was particularly pleased to receive a letter of commendation at the end of his time as a United Nations Observer in Israel.

“Not everyone gets one,” he says. “It was a good boost in showing that an Army Reserve officer can go on an international deployment and perform to a higher standard than most.

And it shows that New Zealand training is of a very high international standard.

The letter was signed by MajGen David Gawn, a former New Zealand Chief of Army who is n0w the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO) Head of Mission.

While the work was professionally demanding, Gerard Peoples believes he also gained

Disengagement Observer Force) base in Israeli Occupied Golan, is just 500 metres from the Area of Separation. It operates at a high level of readiness with regular shelter drills.

But nothing is foolproof. Just a month before Gerard arrived in Israel, two United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO) Observers at an OP and two UNDOF soldiers at Camp Zioani were wounded when caught in spill-over fire from a nearby fire fight between opposing Rebel groups.

And even off duty or away from the operations posts, you are still close to the Area of Separation.

Artillery shells fired from positions in Syria have landed here, and violence has been known to ignore the line of separation.

The letter of commendation was a very good boost in showing that an Army Reserve officer can go on an international deployment and perform to a higher standard than most.

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16 Images from the Middle East

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

‘TESTING SITUATION’ HONES Joe Dowling was working in Auckland running a clothing company and working as a Commercial Photographer. But he wasn’t totally satisfied with what he was doing. So he thought he’d send himself into “a testing situation”.

This turned out to be a trip to some of the most dangerous places on earth.

He ended up in the Middle East – Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan -– photographing conflict zones.

“My parents were supportive,” says Joe, 29, although he admits they were undoubtedly worried.

“They understood what I wanted to

I didn’t want to feel like a voyeur.

I talked to people, tried to understand their situation and what was going on, not just taking the photo and walking off.

So, how does a young man who wants to find out about life in a conflict zone go about it. If you’re Joe Dowling, you spend a year or so living amongst some of that conflict in an intense situation in the Middle East. Karen Phelps reports on what Joe learnt and we display some of his photos. get from the experience – an understanding of what life is like in these conflict zones. I’m interested in the human condition and how people react in different situations. I think it’s important to tell these stories and show people what’s happening in parts of the world that they have no concept of.”

Joe and mate Nick Latty, a Kiwi Lawyer who also had an interest in photography, flew into Kabul in Afghanistan on a one-way ticket. Joe admits it was a bit disconcerting when the passengers started shouting as the plane took off (it turned out they were praying).

They landed in Kabul as the Presidential elections were pending.

Tensions were running high. Foreigners were few and far between as the Taliban made its presence felt with daily sieges and bombings. A week before they arrived, a British-Swedish Journalist, Nils Horner, had been shot in the street.

It wasn’t safe for the lads to wander around, even during the day. They linked up with some local contacts around their own age who guided them around the city.

Photography was restricted in Kabul and Joe nearly had his camera forcibly removed by a

soldier who presumed he was shooting for intelligence purposes.

When the Taliban attacked the airport, their local friends said it was time for the lads to leave. They flew to Iran where they spent a month sightseeing, and then into Iraq where they spent most of the next 14 months. They stayed a year in Erbil, the capital of autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan, teaching English in a local school and shooting photos on the weekends.

These photos have just been featured in an exhibition (A Window That Isn’t There) in Auckland.

“It’s a window into a world we don’t normally have,” says Joe. “I shot more day-to-day life in these places, what it is like on a daily basis for people living in conflict zones.”

The lads travelled to three main conflict areas – Mosul, Kirkuk and a ridgeline near Kirkuk colloquially known as Mama, where the Peshmerga, as the Iraqi Kurdistan army is called, was defending its border against ISIS (Islamic State in Iraq and Syria).

Their foray into Photo-Journalism was organic – they’d hang out in bars, make contacts, then hire drivers and translators to take them where they wanted to go. They visited the Peshmerga

Images from the Middle East

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

17

JOE’S UNDERSTANDING barracks, hanging out with Soldiers who were lying around relaxing, drinking tea and smoking during the day; most fighting took place at night.

With the ever-present threat of ISIS nearby, Joe says it was undoubtedly scary – ISIS would no doubt have kidnapped them had they come across them. But it was also intriguing and interesting as they navigated dirt roads to remote areas.

The refugee camp at Mosul and the sheer volume of people attempting to cross the border to safety is one of his most persistent memories.

“It was over 50 degrees, dusty and horrible. It was like the worst traffic jam I’ve ever seen – people on foot and in cars and trucks, people with babies. I already knew how serious the situation was, but it gave me an intense sense of empathy for what these people were going through.”

In the barracks he visited, the sentiment was pretty much the same everywhere – although he acknowledges that he suspects this was largely coloured by what the interpreter chose to tell them and getting personal stories from Soldiers was difficult.

“They were very patriotic and proud of their region. They told us they were under-resourced and wanted us to tell the world they needed weapons, bullets and equipment. But we were never sure if that’s what they had been told to tell us. We didn’t get a whole lot of personal stories from them.”

The closest they came to fighting was witnessing mortar bombs exploding 100 metres away on a ridge-line as the Peshmerga defended its position.

But, says Joe, the Soldiers didn’t seem bothered by this, so the pair took their cue from them and ended up sitting on a mat eating chicken and rice with them.

One of his favourite images sums up the bizarre situation: a Soldier kneeling on a mat praying with two AK47s visible behind him. Another is of a Soldier holding a rifle looking through sandbags as the landscape stretches out before him.

“The hardest part was maintaining a sense of empathy as I didn’t want to feel like a voyeur. I did this by talking to people and trying to understand their situation and what was going on, and not just taking the photo and walking off.

“I was a little bit in awe of the Soldiers because they were putting themselves completely in harm’s way to protect their people. What they were doing was so serious and meaningful. I found that quite inspiring. I believe the reasons I was there were also important – to tell the world their story.”

Joe says the most important thing he has learned is an understanding of the mechanics of why people go to war and the long-term effect this has on their perceptions: “There would be Kurdish people I’d be talking to who would say derogatory things about Arab-Iraqis.

When I’d say, ‘Hey, you can’t really say that’, they’d reply with things about how they’d been marginalised for 200 years, how they’d experienced chemical warfare, how their family had been killed.

“It made me start to

understand what their lives had been like and how that had institutionalised social divides.

“I feel like that same sentiment exists to an extent here in New Zealand with Maori, and I can now understand why some parts of the Maori community are resentful over how they’ve been treated. There is a lot of history and context as to why people have certain values and beliefs.”

Joe – now Managing Director of Auckland-based Roaring Fork, an independent design hub specialising in creative direction, art direction and branding – is already thinking about his next project.

He has discovered a box of negatives taken by his grandfather, Laurence Cornwell, who served as a Captain in the New Zealand Military Second Division and 21 Battalion during World War 2 and travelled to Egypt, Tunisia and Syria.

I was a little bit in awe of the Soldiers because they were putting themselves completely in harm’s way to protect their people. What they were doing was so serious and meaningful. I found that quite inspiring.

18

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

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SEAL RI 688951 CMT 21/12/2016 Rangiora SHEPPARD IH 2768969 NZ Army 17/01/2017 Thames SHERNING DH 44824 22 Bn 16/06/2016 Havelock North SILKE KP 784637 CMT 31/01/2017 Nelson SINTON IP 624005 NZ Army 22 Btn ASC, WWII 13/02/2017 Taradale SMITH LJ 898465 23/01/2017 Temuka SOLFIELD BR 1810578 RNZAF Whangarei

VAIL NS 340020 NZ Army, Malaya 01/01/2015 Auckland VERRALL DW 64684 NZ Army, WWII 28/10/2016 Remuera w

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19

SET OF TEN GUMMED STAMPS • Depicts New Zealand's involvement in the war in 1917 at home and abroad • Features Ellen Knight, a mother of ten who tragically lost three sons to the First World War • Commemorates the darkest day in New Zealand's military history — when 845 lives were lost at Passchendaele

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22

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

What’s New

CLUB CALLS ON PROS TO OFFER OPTIONS Sue Russell The East Coast Bays RSA, on Auckland’s North Shore, has enlisted the help of a specialist research company to investigate options for the Club’s future format and business arrangements.

The RSA and the Browns Bay Bowling Club have commissioned Visitor Solutions to “look at the big picture with an objective, businessfocussed approach”. The two Clubs received a joint grant of $30,000 from the Upper Harbour and Hibiscus and Bays Community Boards to fund the feasibility study.

This followed an approach to the RSA from the Bowling Club, 500 metres down the road, suggesting the two amalgamate and be part of what is being called a “Community Hub” – a complex of Club space and sporting amenities such as bowling and tennis working on a business model and not solely reliant on income from Members.

“If the merger goes ahead, there will be a loss of identity as an RSA, but not entirely,” says RSA President Kerry Kay. “That’s one of the challenges ...to ensure there is space set aside for some displaying of our valued memorabilia. We don’t see the merger and retaining a relationship to our founding values as mutually exclusive at all.

“Our Members don’t want to see the Club

East Coast Bays RSA President Kerry Kay (left) and Manager Scott Evans

die away and we don’t see any reason why this should occur. We could see a possible Fox Hole Café at the Bowling Club site where some of our displays could be housed, as well as a bar/lounge area for the general public using the sporting facilities or visiting and socialising.”

The community hub is not the only potential option for the Club, and Visitor Solutions will provide feedback to the RSA on other possibilities, though Kerry Kay acknowledges his preference is the merger proposition.

“There is a lot of goodwill and positivity from both Clubs, which is a great thing,” he says.

The Bowling Club’s approach was timely as

We were in decline and the fire really created an opportunity for us to look afresh.

the RSA was coming to terms with its worsening financial situation.

The Club had been losing ground financially for some time, but it took some earnest research with XERO accounting software to reveal the extent of the decline. Couple this with extensive roof and water damage from a fire in the Club’s two-storey Browns Bay home in May 2015, and you had the conditions that led to serious consideration of the RSA’s future.

“We were just losing money in every direction in relationship to the patronage,” says Kerry Kay. “When the Club was closed for 10 months after the fire, it was very difficult to get people back.

Put simply, like many Clubs, we were in decline and the fire really created an opportunity for us to look afresh.”

He and the Committee set about consulting Members and Staff, a process that led to a decision at last October’s annual meeting to look seriously at options, including the Bowling

Vietnam Vets donate trophy to honour top Cadet Te Kahi Nathan was the first recipient of a brand new trophy gifted by Vietnam War Veterans who attended Kaitaia College. It will be presented annually to the best Kaitaia College Service Academy cadet.

The trophy, which was blessed by Teacher Rev Michael Withiel, recognises overall excellence, team spirit and leadership.

Veteran Richie Taaffe says he was pleased to see Students given the opportunity to join a military-style Academy.

“In our day all boys went through the cadet system, and it didn’t do us any harm. When we became aware of the academy and what it was doing within the school community, we felt we should give it some support and recognition.

“We were fortunate to have master carver Paul Marshall accept the challenge of carving the patu, which rests on a base of finely crafted and polished swamp kauri.”

Military training at Secondary School level dates back to the Defence Act 1919, which introduced compulsory military training (CMT) for all males aged between 14 and 21 years.

Cadet training was compulsory in Schools until CMT was abolished in 1958, but many Schools continued with their Cadet units until 1970 when the Government removed funding support.

The Kaitaia District High School/College Cadet Unit has a proud tradition, says Richie Taaffe. The School has competed in a variety of competitions, winning many and regularly being recognised as one of the top cadet units in the country.

He recalls that rifles and machine guns were stored in an armoury (an old army hut), with

Vietnam War veterans who had attended the Kaitaia College have gifted this trophy to the school for presentation to its top Service Academy cadet, The first winner was Te Kahi Nathan.

radios and other equipment in a shed alongside.

There was a rifle range.

Senior boys would attend training courses at the Papakura and Waiouru Military Camps during School holidays. Subjects included drill (marching), weapon training, field craft, map reading, shooting, first aid, and radio operating.

Then, under the supervision of Teachers who had trained as Cadet Officers and Regular Army Personnel, the Senior Students would pass on their knowledge to their juniors.

Barracks Week would take place early in the School year under canvas, in locations that included Mangamuka and Tokerau Beach. Every second Wednesday afternoon, all boys would

spend time furthering their military knowledge and skills.

“Some of the non-academic experiences and lessons learned were put to good use by pupils who went on to become Scientists, Farmers, Doctors, Builders, Professors, Dentists, Plumbers, Teachers and the like,” he says. “Past Pupils also served in the Armed Forces during World War 2, in Korea, Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam, and continue to serve in more recent conflicts.”

An Honours Board, also donated by the veterans, is displayed in the School foyer. It bears the names of the 41 past Pupils who served in Vietnam, more than any other secondary school in New Zealand.

Club’s amalgamation/community hub proposal.

“When it went to the vote, there was overwhelming support to look at options seriously, given the approach by the Bowling Club,” says Kerry. “I was heartened that this attitude from our Members and Staff gave us the mandate to really look at how we could best meet the future.

Just as much for those Members who have passed, who have put years of good energy and commitment towards it as for current Members.”

Once the feasibility studies have concluded and the respective Clubs have received its recommendations, if, how and when merger might happen will go to the vote again.

Meanwhile, the fire damage to the RSA’s building has been repaired and the Club has a conditional sale on its books, and is working through necessary Council building-compliance documentation to secure the deal, says Kerry.

He expects the sale to go ahead as soon as the paperwork is tidied up. If the merger with the Bowling Club goes ahead, the RSA would invest some funds in the new Community Hub – important, says Kerry, so that the Club has a financial stake in the new facility.

“We’re very fortunate that the Bowling Club owns its own land, making it possible for changes to the building to occur and placing the whole project on a sound financial footing.”

Kerry Kay says he has been with the New Zealand Police for 42 years (his current role is Police Development Manager) and has become accustomed to managing change and creating initiatives.

“I am fortunate to be able to bring this professional experience to leading our RSA with its current membership of approximately 2000 through this important time.”

New light cast on Battle of the Somme The 1916 Battle of the Somme encapsulates all that went wrong on the Western Front during World War 1. The loss of life, and stoic endurance of British and Allied troops after incompetent generals sent their men over the top like lambs to the slaughter is an image that is hard to ignore.

But was it as simple as that?

Hugh Sebag-Montefiore scoured archives in Australia and New Zealand, South Africa and Canada, as well as in the United Kingdom, France and Germany in search of records left behind by Soldiers.

For the first time in a general book on the battle, more than just the British viewpoint is included...in the form of testimony from these once British Dominions. The New Zealanders (2000 killed and 6000 wounded), Australians, South Africans and Canadians suffered cruelly as they advanced.

While it would be misleading to classify the repeated do-or-die attempts to defeat the Germans on the Somme as a success story, there is a positive underlying message.

The Battle was crucial in helping British Generals learn and eventually adopt winning tactics. And it ripped out the heart of the German Army. While certainly not a victory, it was the beginning of the German slide towards defeat.

Sebag-Montefiore was a Barrister before becoming a Journalist and then a Historian. His book Enigma: The Battle For The Code describes how the Polish, French and British cryptographers cracked the German Enigma code and Dunkirk, • Somme: Into the Breach is published by Trade Paperback Viking (UK Adult) . Recommended retail price: $40.00.

23

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Lost Trails Artillerymen at Trentham

Can anyone identify any of the Artillerymen in this photo (right), which was taken at Trentham Camp around 1933. The Ordnance Sergeants are, far left, J.W. (Bill) Dalton, who was Norm Lamont’s father’s stepfather, and, far right, Arthur Richardson. Arthur is wearing his long service and good conduct medal, which he received on July 9, 1932. He was promoted to WOII on December 1, 1934, so this photo must have been taken between those two dates.

Contact: Norm Lamont – 06 8778739; nwlamont@yahoo.co.nz

Animals of war

Did your regiment, squadron or ship have a mascot or a pet or a working animal? Maria Gill is looking for World War 1 and World War 2 stories about animals that went to war. It’s for a children’s book – a follow-on from Anzac Heroes, which was published last year. If you email her , she will interview you by phone. If you wish to know more about the author, look on her website (www.mariagill.co.nz).

Contact: Maria Gill – mariagill@ihug.co.nz

RCAF 425 (‘Alouette’) Squadron

James Girling is a documentary filmmaker who is based in Canada. He is producing a film about the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 425 (“Alouette”) Sqn (photo, left) – a nominally French-Canadian bomber squadron which was stationed in Yorkshire during World War 2. It also included some New Zealanders, Americans, Australians and Southern Rhodesians. Do you know of any surviving veterans of the Squadron?

If privacy is an issue, James is happy for his contact information to be passed on.

James Girling – 001 416 9217737; jagirling@ gmail.com

Medals returned

Do you have medal you’d like returned? Medals Reunited New Zealand© (MRNZ) is a voluntary, free service dedicated to returning war and service

‘ENDEAVOUR’, ‘BOUNTY’ SAIL ON Kelly Deeks Geoff Hill has always loved sailing ships and the incredible feats achieved with them in an era now gone.

But the history and romance behind some of the world’s most recognised sailing ships has prompted the Christchurch enthusiast to bring highly crafted model ships into New Zealand for those wanting to appreciate such ornaments in their home or workplace.

He came across these durably constructed models, which are true representations of the famous craft they depict, through a business contact in China, and started to import models of ships with a New Zealand link.

There’s HMS Endeavour, the British Royal Navy research vessel that Lt James Cook commanded on his first voyage of discovery to Australia and New Zealand from 1769 to 1771, and Endurance, the three-masted barquentine that was crushed by ice when Sir Ernest Shackleton sailed for the Antarctic on the 1914 Imperial Trans-American Expedition after stopping in Christchurch for supplies.

And HMS Bounty, the small merchant vessel bought by the Royal Navy and sent in 1787 for a botanical mission to the Pacific Ocean under the command of William Bligh. It was burned on Pitcairn Island by the mutineers led by Lt Fletcher Christian.

Increasing interest in the models and the many New Zealanders with a European connection encouraged Geoff to bring in a wider range of models, including HMS Victory, the 104-gun, first-rate ship of the line of the Royal Navy, launched in 1765 and best known as Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Now the flagship of the First Sea Lord,

Models of HMS Endeavour (left) and HMS Victory are among some of the many model boats imported by Christchurch enthusiast Geoff Hill to cater for the growing demand from Kiwis.

the Victory is the world’s oldest naval ship still in commission.

Geoff Hill knows he is providing to a limited market, but has so far installed model ships into commercial offices, restaurants, and hotels, as well as for the die-hard fans.

“With some models up to 1.3 metres long, they take up a bit of room, and not everyone can display them in their lounge. They have to be stored in a display cabinet, which we provide as well, as their intricate designs can trap dust.

But you can’t have them displayed anywhere without getting interest or comment.”

His model imports now include cruise ships, art deco speed boats, and Chinese junks, and a variety of ancient sailing ships with stores and history behind them as seagoing vessels dating to the second century, and many still in use.

His Chinese supplier will make a model of any ship or boat as long as there are accurate measurements and pictures.

Geoff Hill says that any model ship will cost a few hundred dollars, but people still appreciate a finely crafted, amazing ornament – especially with a historical story and a bit of romance attached.

medals of mainly New Zealand Veterans, to their families or a traceable descendant. Typically, medals and associated ephemera that have been found (or pre-owned) are sent to MRNZ for research and return once the recipient or surviving descendant kin has been located.

Ian D.Martyn, Nelson – medalsreunitednz@ gmail.com; 027 9404495; 03 5467728; www. medalsreunitednz.co.nz.

OBITUARY

Pte Hare Natana Nuku...the last of the 28Bn Tuhoes The last Tuhoe Soldier from B Company 28 Maori Battalion has died. Pte Hare Natana Nuku died at Whakatane Hospital and was buried at Kaiti Cemetery in January.

Born and raised among his whanau from Waiohou, Mr Nuku grew up in Ruatoki and went to Ruatoki Native School.

To get there each day, he had to cross the Whakatane River by horse from his home at Ohotu.

He grew up hunting, eeling, and, according to elders, was a speedster in his young days.

While playing rugby for Ruatoki, he feared no one, no matter the size.

On his return from World War 2 he lived in Ruatoki, started Dairy Farming, married, and went on to have 11 children.

He took up golf and also became a gifted pianist.

In 2007, he and Paora Kruger were the Presidents of the 28 Maori Battalion and hosted the reunion at Hoko Whitu a Tu during Easter.

One of the highlights for Hare Nuku was taking the Returned Soldiers to the Tuhoe Ahurei at Ruatoki.

As a mark of respect for the last Soldier from Tuhoe, the Ruatoki RSA requested through the New Zealand Defence Force that Mr Nuku be accorded full military honours at his burial service from Owhakatoro Marae to the Kaiti cemetery.

He is buried next to his late wife, and is survived by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

24

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Support & Well-Being

GRANTS RISE POINTS TO MOUNTING HARDSHIP Returned and Service Personnel and their families have made significantly more RSA grant applications in 2016 than in the previous year.

In 2015 there were 21 applications for grants from the Poppy and RSA general trusts, and a total of $37,607 was paid out. In 2016, the number of applications rose to 73, with $141,989 granted.

The increase suggests some ex-Service people are facing mounting hardship, says the RSA’s Support Services Strategic Adviser, Danny Nelson. Contemporary Veterans (those who have served in the military since Vietnam) are Left: Soldiers return after an overseas deployment: “We know there is a whole generation of postVietnam current and ex-service people suffering from hardship, and mental and physical injuries who could benefit from trust grants – Danny Nelson, RSA support services strategic adviser.

increasingly coming to the attention of RSA Support Advisers.

“That we are seeing more contemporary Veterans applying is significant,” he says, especially since the main reason appears to be hardship issues generally brought on by problems associated with combat trauma, including post-traumatic stress injuries (PTSI).

“In the latter half of 2016, contemporary Veterans made up about half of applicants seeking financial assistance in one form or another.

The perception of the RSA assisting only older Veterans to get dentures and walking sticks is well and truly over.”

The RSA administers a number of trusts to support Returned and Service Personnel and their dependents and families, regardless of whether or not they are members of the RSA or have had operational service.

The guiding principle behind granting financial assistance is need. Relief of social and medical hardship and the advancement of education are the main criteria, although other situations will be considered.

Danny Nelson believes the work of the RSA doesn’t stop here, and that even more can be done with trust grants.

“We know there is a whole generation of post-Vietnam current and ex-Service people suffering from hardship, and mental and physical injuries who could benefit from trust grants. We also want to ensure our older Veterans are looked after in their retirement. ”My measure of success for 2017 will be to double the funds granted to Veterans and their families. This requires local RSAs and the community to refer Service and ex-Service people who need financial help to us.”

‘Tasty treat’ cooked up as entree to brass-band world champs The National Brass Band of New Zealand – which includes 13 serving New Zealand Defence Force Personnel – has cooked up a tasty treat to raise funds to help get to the 2017 World Championships. The event will be staged in Kerkrade, a Dutch town on the border with Germany. in July.

The Band has worked with prominent Kiwi citizens and artists to create Music on the Menu, a cookbook with recipes from New Zealand and abroad. you can share the tastes of John Key, Malvina Major, Tamati Coffey and others.

Formed in 1953, the 33-member Band is

selected from 50 New Zealand Bands, has developed a brass repertoire that has brought a string of successes at international concerts and competitions. It is rated among the world’s elite brass, and its contest record includes multiple wins at the World Music Concourse.

The Band has performed at the 1953 Coronation festivities in London, the Edinburgh Festival, the New York World Fair, the Los Angeles County Fair, Expo70 in Japan, the Canadian National Exhibition, the 1974 and 1990 Commonwealth Games in New Zealand, and has given a joint concert with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.

It has made tours to Australia, Canada, China, France, Greece, Japan, the Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States • Music on the Menu costs $23 (including postage). Orders: email – army.band@nzdf.mil.nz; phone – 03 3630200; mail – letter and payment to NZ Army Band, Powles Rd, Burnham 7600.

Right: A pictorial entree to what you get with the Music on the Menu cookbook.

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26

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Remembering When my father got together with ex-army and Prisoner-of-War mates, they spoke fondly of their experiences in Italy, either as POWs or on the run, and the Italian people they met. These were asides from the harsh realities of the war going on all around. Names such as Francesca Rossi were repeated often, referring to the assistance in hiding out and the supply of meagre food shared with them.

My father went through the greater part of World War 2 , firstly with the 20th Battalion in North Africa and then as a POW through Greece, Italy and Germany. As with most, he spoke little about his experiences, but in the company of ex-Army and POW mates, there was obviously a camaraderie that those of us on the outside didn’t have to appreciate, a time when some recollections would be spoken of.

Pte S T Stratton, 14724, joined up for military service in July 1940, embarked in February 1941 with the 4th Reinforcements, disembarked in Egypt on March 16, 1941, having completed most of his training in Burnham Camp, near Christchurch. The 20th Battalion, a proud troop well decorated with three VCs by war’s end, had returned to North Africa from Crete and the harsh outcome of those battles. He joined it there, having been through the camps at Maadi and Haswan. He went through the campaigns to Operation Crusader in Libya in November 1941.

In 2000 he commented on a photo in the RSA Review of a woman visiting a cemetery in North Africa: “That’s the sister of my old sergeant, good drinking mate, a Maori fella from Matata, got killed right in front of me.” The conversation sort of died from this rare comment. The 20th Battalion History records that Sgt Hayward was killed as he rose and waved his platoon forward on November 27, 1941 in the attack between Bel Hamed and Sidi Rezegh.

About the same time S T Stratton was wounded in the upper leg by a piece of mortar bomb and captured soon after. He was posted as missing on December 13, 1941. In 1990, the family doctor said “About time we took that out, I think” referring to the shrapnel from 1941.

Prisoners were marched towards Benghazi suffering some deprivation through lack of water and food and, although captured by the Germans, under an agreement with Italy were handed over to the Italians as POWs. On December 8.

A SON REMEMBERS THE MEN Roger Stratton, an Associate Member of the Te Atatu Memorial & Henderson RSA, reflects on a trip he and his wife, Janita, made to Montelupone, Italy where his father was a Prisoner of War during World War 2. Montelupone and Mascerata (12 kilometres away) are medieval hilltop towns dating back to Roman times; they are surrounded by open, rolling, agricultural country with vineyards, olive groves and crops. This year will be the 75th anniversary of the POWs time there and Roger and Janita would like to revisit the area in May to enjoy the food and wine, the people, the ambience – and to remember those men.

Some of the Prisoners of War at Montelupone in June 1943. S T Stratton and two others were in the sick bay with malaria on the day the photo was taken.

There were about 70 POWs in the camp.

1941, 2000 British and Commonwealth captured Troops were loaded onto the ship Jason for Italy. On the afternoon of December 9, 1941, the Jason was torpedoed by the British submarine HMS Porpoise through off the Greek coast. My father admitted to one of the worst sights he saw – the devastation in the hold with bodies and planking strewn all over. We believe he was in another hold, although he had tried to sleep

The prisoners marched two kilometres on Sunday to Church at San Firmano Abbey and Church, which remain with Gardens and an adjacent Café/Restaurant.

Please consider Montecillo when planning Wills and Bequests

on deck whenever possible because of the heat.

He and D.Dittmer (front row, third from right, 1943 photo, above) got off the first day, climbing down a wire and swimming ashore. Five hundred POWs. Including 45 New Zealanders, died in the torpedoing and evacuation. This story is well covered in Spence Edge and Jim Henderson’s book. No Honour No Glory.

The ship beached near Methoni in Greece, driven astern by a German engineer who was travelling home on leave; most of the crew had evacuated the ship. Once survivors were ashore, they were kept in Camps, initially in empty buildings near Methoni Castle and then in camps such as Pilos, Akhaia (Dysentery Acre) and Patras. Conditions were terrible in all of them, with little or no food. Those in Dysentery Acre, as it was referred to by many POWs, suffered from dysentery and were weak from lack of food. Some slept alongside latrines but were too weak to constantly go there; some had the misfortune to fall into them. The POWs suffered

for two months in Greece before being shipped to Italy, first to transition Camps in Brindisi and Bari, and then to Tuturano or Gravina.

By March 1942 most of ex-Jason POWs in Italy were at Campo 85 in Tuturano. Conditions improved a little – some Red Cross parcels were received, and the Camps were better run and organised by the Italian Army. On October 1942 Prisoners were moved to Work Camps, such as Montelupone where they worked on a canal for a run-of-the-river hydro scheme.

In September 1943 they were moved to PG 145 Campotosto (Poggio Cancelli) to work on building a dam. Italy capitulated in July 1943 , but it was September before the Camps heard of it.

Many Camp Guards walked away from many Camps allowing POWs to escape to the likes of the Gran Sasso Mountains around the villages of Mascioni and Capitiano.

The family of Paul Clarkson (back row, third from right, 1943 photo, above) has produced a brief history of his experiences and has covered quite a lot of detail. Some escapees managed to link up eventually with the advancing Allies, others lacked the resolve to do much at all, and others were on the run for up to six or seven months before being rounded up by the Germans through bad luck or careless behaviour. After the Italian armistice, Germany had moved up 10 Divisions to strengthen its hold in Italy. During Some of the old Camp buildings remain on the site.

63 Ba Bay View Road, Dunedin Ph (03) 466 - 4778 info Email: information@montecillo.org.nz www.monteci www.montecillo.org.nz

Remembering PHOTOS Right: Alberto Muccichino and his daughter, Aleechay – Alice (the two on the left) showed Janita and Roger Stratton (the two on the right) many of the sights of Montelupone area and were ‘a great asset’ for translation.

Below: The dam and outlet canal which the Montelupone Prisoners of War helped build. When it was commissioned, part of it collapsed and the POWs had to complete their work – ‘properly’ this time. The dam is still working well today.

OF MONTELUPONE their time on the run, many POWs were helped by local Italians at great risk to themselves when supplying food and shelter.

The Camp consisted of a barn-like building with a fortified flour mill, surrounded by a barbed wire enclosure. South Africans were upstairs, New Zealanders downstairs, many of them from the Jason. The wall in the background had been rebuilt over three months or so through ‘the judicious use of labour’ – two bricks up, one down. The Camp Commandant, Guiseppe, was not happy.

Les Rowson (back row, second from right, 1943 photo, opposite page) said they had recently received Red Cross parcels, hence the tidy uniforms; they had been in oily diesel-stained uniforms for months after the Jason.

Today, the remains are somewhat unstable and you can’t get too close to them. Les, who had been an electrician/radio technician before the war, managed to make up a water heater for cups of tea from tin cans powered from a light socket. When he blew all the fuses in the Camp, he was grounded and had to sleep outside in a tent and not go to Church on Sunday. He complained bitterly as he reckoned he was the only Catholic in the Camp.

The POWs would march the two kilometres to the San Firmano Church for the Sunday services, which were usually held outside.

Guiseppe would march along beside them with his shotgun taking shots at any birds he saw; if he missed, the POWs would blame one of the other guards. From time to time, local

people would leave food in their letter-boxes for the POWs to pick up when passing. This was well received as food in the Camp was still meagre rations.

San Firmano Abbey was built in 980AD, destroyed in a 1028 conflict but rebuilt in 1256 when the body of San Firmano, patron saint of the town, was found. Today it has the Church, Abbey and Gardens and an adjacent Café/ Restaurant.

The POWs worked on building an outlet canal for a local hydro scheme. This had issues when being commissioned, part of it collapsed and the POWs had to complete their ‘work’ properly. It is still working well today.

Later in 1943 the POWs were moved to near Campotosto to a Camp in Poggio Cancelli where

work was carried out in building an earth and rock dam. From here, there were the escapes, the recaptures and the eventual rail trip to Germany in 1944.

S T Stratton was railed to Germany around April 1944. A terrible trip, he said. Occasionally at ‘comfort’ stops, SS Guards shot some of the Prisoners; he wasn’t quite sure why this happened, perhaps to discourage escape attempts.

In another incident, a hole was knocked through the bottom of the wagon and a few POWs dropped through to escape. At a stop a Guard realised what was happening and pointed his rifle up through the hole and fired a couple of shots to discourage further attempts at escape. War

records show notifications were sent on May 1, 1944 from Stalag IVB near Muhlberg, and on June 26, 1944 from Stalag IVG, in Oschatz near Leipzig. Here, Prisoners were sent to Work Camps to clean up after bombing raids on Leipzig or work in coal mines.

A comment from that time described the 1944-45 winter as one of the worst on record and noted that in Stalag IVG, there were many Russian POWs who were worked hard and were badly treated. On one occasion the Russians refused to come out of their hut, because they were starving and thought it too cold to work.

The Germans put a dog into the hut and in what seemed just a matter of minutes, the skin was thrown back out the door.

About that time S T Stratton became friends with Fraser McLeod, who had been in the Long Range Desert Group. This was apparently about the only section in the Army that did not have to shave on duty. The Camp Doctor advised McLeod to shave to reduce problems with lice; my father lent him a razor he had picked up by scrounging on work-detail. The family still has the razor.

Records show that S T Stratton was safe in the United Kingdom on April 26, 1945, after having been flown out in American DC3s. He recalled being unable to get a beer glass in London on VE Day (May 8, 1945). He embarked from the UK on June 18, 1945, arrived in New Zealand July 19, and was discharged October 24, 1945.

28

Remembering

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

WAR HORSE MEMORIAL CLOSE TO REALITY Sue Russell Several years of visioning, planning and fundraising by a group of Hamilton citizens committed to recognition of role horses played in World War 1 has come to fruition with the soon-tobe-installed bronze War Horse sculpture in Hamilton’s Memorial Park.

When RSA Review met four members of the group, the buzz was all about a visit mid-March to former New Zealand Defence Force artist and sculptor Matt Gauldie to sign off the completion of the true-to-life depiction of the horse, standing more than 17 hands high. “ Matt has done an amazing job, really capturing the essence of the vitality and movement of the horse in a classic gesture, bending down sniffing a Soldier’s hat,” says group member Margaret Evans, a former Hamilton Mayor and and member of TOTI, the charitable trust that has spearheaded project management of the sculpture.

“It tells a story so poignantly, and that is why Matt’s entry was selected,” With her are fellow Trustees Mavora Hamilton and Kate McArthur, along with Noeline Jeffries, founder of the Waikato Equestrian Centre, the group responsible for initiating the effort to commemorate the 10,000-plus New Zealand stock horses sent to the battlefields.

Noeline picks up the story.

“The project really began when Rodney Martin, who lived in Masterton, put an article in the NZ Riding Club’s Riders Roundup in December 2012 saying it was important that the vital role our horses played in the Great War was honoured.

The Waikato Equestrian Centre took up this challenge; we approached TOTI to be project manager and set about fundraising the $220,000 needed.”

Funding flowed in from several vital sources,

Left: A graphic artist’s impression of the War Horse Memorial courtesy of Richard Stowers.

Below: Margaret Evans (left) and Noeline Jeffries on foot, with Nikki Klevering (mounted left) and War Horse March president John King, (mounted, right).

including $100,000 from the Lotto WW1 fund, $50,000 from the Glenice and John Gallagher Trust, $20,000 each from Trust Waikato and WEL Energy, and numerous donations from the general public and Waikato’s equestrian sector.

With the funding target now achieved, plans are well under way for War Horse’s unveiling at this year’s Armistice Day service at Memorial Park, an event that will see Gauldie’s horse, complete with genuine World War 1 saddle and Soldier’s hat with a Waikato Mounted Rifles badge attached, displayed publicly for the first time.

“Matt completely respected the original motivation for the sculpture, which was to really show the true essence of the bond between horse and rider,” says Margaret.

Following the unveiling at the conclusion of the 11am service, the Mane Event – staged in collaboration with the Hamilton City Council and involving equestrian groups – will begin at the Claudelands showgrounds. It will include a re-enactment of the first horse arriving in the Bay of Islands with Bishop Samuel Marsden.

“It will be a wonderful celebration and we hope to have as many horses as possible there,” says Noeline.

Horses will march to the Cenotaph from the famous Line of Fire sculpture, depicting artist and Anzac warrior Sapper Horace Moore-Jones; this has also designed by Matt Gauldie and will be unveiled in Hamilton’s main street in March.

The pathway toward finally settling War Horse on its site near the park’s Ypres Memorial Gardens and the cenotaph has not been straightforward.

“We had to work through the Council’s public art protocols, and while we always saw War Horse sited where it will be, near the main walkway creating a triangle of commemorative installations with the gardens and the cenotaph,

some council staff wanted it further away on a slope in the Gardens,” says Mavora Hamilton.

Noeline Peters sees it as appropriate that Hamilton will be the first city to publicly commemorate the valour and contribution horses made to the war effort as more 40 per cent of the horses came from the Waikato, “It’s hard to describe just what the bond between rider and horse in the war must have been like, but we know that often Soldiers saved their share of water to give to their horses. When you consider that only four horses returned from the battlefields, this is an amazing sacrifice.”.

For the second time horses and riders will form part of the march at 11am Anzac service in Memorial Park.

Changes made to medal process The New Zealand Defence Force has introduced a new process for medal and service record requests. NZDF Medals Policy Adviser Jack Hayes outlines how it all works.

The main reason for the change is to have a single point of contact for anything to do with military records and medal enquiries. It also lines the system up with best practice and the Public Records Act 2005.

Previously you had to fill out 14 forms. Now This was complex and time consuming for everyone involved. We have reduced this to one form for ease of filling out and processing.

Who can use it?

The website allows anyone to request information held in military archives, or to make medal enquiries. We have aligned information distribution to the requirements of the Privacy Act 1993 – anyone seeking this information must meet these. Information: NZDF Medals Website.

Is there a cost?

For service files, the first file is free; subsequent

files cost $28 each. For example, someone seeking to retrieve the files for both grandfathers and two great grandfathers would pay $84 all up (four files, with the first one free).

Medals that have not been claimed before your request are free to send and receive. Replacements for lost or destroyed medals of living ex-Service men and women are available from the NZDF at a cost accounting rate.

The NZDF offers no replacement for lost or destroyed medals once the veteran dies. Copy or duplicate medals are available through most reputable medal mounters.

How will the data from service records be used and who can access it?

Information will be of use to families, Service men and women, and researchers. Where appropriate, data will be anonymous to protect the privacy of living individuals.

The RSA and the Ministry of Veterans’ Affairs will use this information to research veteran conditions and eligibility to entitlements relating to service. Data may be used to predict patterns and trends concerning current and future Veterans, especially in terms of health effects and their prevention. This may help with the development of policy and strategies for the welfare and medical requirements of Service men and women.

Remembering 29

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

The Dolores Cross project aims to give people the opportunity to personally pay tribute to the 30,000-odd New Zealand Armed Forces casualties of war and conflicts who are lying in foreign soils. The project also covers 1626 New Zealanders who served with foreign forces.

The idea came to archivist Dolores Cross as she was helping researchers from Cannock Chase, Staffordshire, England with the history of Great War huts, the 3rd New Zealand Rifle Brigade and the Messines terrain model at Brocton Camp.

When the researchers told her that 73 Kiwis are buried in a Commonwealth War Cemetery at Cannock Chase, she decided to send NZRSA poppies to place on the graves for Anzac Day 2008. However, she didn’t have enough poppies., so she made up the shortfall by making another memorial token. The cross was first placed on the 73 graves at Cannock Chase War Cemetery.

“I remembered seeing Maori women weaving flax at Whakarewarewa Village when I arrived in New Zealand in 1986. I decided to weave crosses using flax. Harakeke was chosen because it is native to New Zealand and it seemed appropriate that a part of New Zealand made up this unique token. It creates an intimate link between the homeland and those who went to wars and never returned. A NZRSA poppy is added to the cross to make it distinctively from New Zealand.”

The project is named after her because Dolores is from a Latin word meaning ‘sorrows’: “It is not about me though, it is about the Soldiers”.

The Dolores Cross name (it means ‘the cross of sorrows’) is a reference to its origins and its memorial purpose.

Since 2008, Dolores and volunteers have visited and photographed nearly 14,000 graves. A cross is left at every grave/memorial, and photos are available free. However, donations are welcome to assist with project management.

THE DOLORES CROSS PROJECT

• Dolores is looking for help to weave another 15,000 crosses. Details: website – delorescrossproject.org; email –dolorescrossproject@gmail.com.

– Story & photo: NZ Army News

Army life in Malaya recorded An extensive collection of stories about Army life in Malaya has been deposited with the National Army Museum at Waiouru by Gordon Ell. The collection is the product of his six-month tour of duty in Malaya from November 1960 to May 1961; it covers the activities of 2 NZ Regiment, then based in Taiping, Perak. The stories range more widely, however, and include the construction of the Terendak Camp in Malacca, later occupied by 1NZ Regt, and general accounts of the life of New Zealand Soldiers and their families in other centres, including Penang, Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

‘We were assigned to record the nature of service in the Army to support the recruitment of a replacement Battalion, and spent most of the time with 2NZ Regt based in Taiping, Perak,’ says Gordon Ell. The original material consists of press cuttings from New Zealand daily newspapers, which often contained photographs of local men.

He compiled the new records from old press releases and newspaper clippings.

‘The original material was often poorly printed, so I copied the clearest version of each story from foolscap paper to modern A4 size. The original files include many more photographs, which may be useful for reference.

There is also an edited volume of all the original features rearranged by subject. The themes are: operations, parades, health, Taiping, families, music, sport, Malacca and Singapore.

Looking back it’s interesting to see what people did, both on operations and in their leisure, says Gordon.

The operational section includes features on the use of tracker dogs, jungle patrols, operational bases near the Thai border, and transport by vehicle, helicopter, and motorised canoe.

The role of Medical Staff, both at base and on patrol, and including medical evacuations, is detailed. A mobile Dental Unit services men

Between 1958 and 1962, Gordon Ell worked at Army Headquarters, Wellington on attachment from New Zealand Government Information Services, initially as an Army Public Relations Officer, then as Director of Public Relations.

In 1960-61 he served in uniform in Malaya as an Honorary Lieutenant, accompanied by an RNZAF Photographer, FS Norman Paul.

and their families. There is a Rest Camp in the jungle where wild animals roam, and a religious retreat on an island off Singapore.

Life in Taiping town and leave in other centres introduce other aspects of Army life. The New Zealand Soldiers played rugby against army teams from other countries, and competed in boxing and athletics. A judo club involved wives and locals from Taiping.

Music played a major part, particularly in cultural meetings with Malayan communities. A regimental band was attached to the battalion, and Maori music and dance were performed widely, and Maori concert party recordings were popular on Malayan radio.

The civilian community was active in Taiping and Ipoh.

Some wives organised pre-schools, others helped in social services. Social groups gave concerts. New Zealand children attended army schools with children of British and Australian Soldiers serving with the 28th Commonwealth Brigade.

Many Soldiers took the opportunity to buy luxury cars at a fraction of the New Zealand price.

The inducement of tax-free importation of these cars to New Zealand after two-years’ service in Malaya was a positive factor in recruiting the replacement battalion. When the Government changed the rules while 1NZ Regt was in training in Burnham, new recruits were so angry the law was changed back.

Like no other Levin Home for War Veterans An elder-centred community We take every opportunity to bring companionship, spontaneity, fun, meaning and purpose into the lives of elders. We’ll support you to continue doing the things you love in a way that’s right for you.

Your space There are no ‘shoeboxes’ at Levin Home - the rooms are large and spacious. Residents also enjoy the spacious grounds and gardens, modern recreation spaces and refurbished lounges.

Positive ageing services We offer a full range of positive ageing services, including rest home, hospital and dementia care, as well as short term respite and health recovery care.

The social life Levin Home’s busy social calendar and stimulating recreation programme make for a vibrant atmosphere. Family and friends are always welcome, and the home even boasts its own RSA-style club, known as the Veterans Arms.

Rest home | Hospital | Dementia care | Respite | Health recovery care

Visit: www.enlivencentral.org.nz | Freephone: 0508 36 54 83

STAYING SAFE A refresher workshop for senior road users

Have fun and brush up on ways to maintain your mobility and independence Staying Safe is a classroom-based refresher workshop designed for all senior road users aged 70 and over.

The aim of this workshop is to: â&#x20AC;˘ help you to maintain and improve your safe driving practices â&#x20AC;˘ give you information about other transport options available when driving is no longer possible.

For more information about courses, please contact the NZ Transport Agency on 0800 822 422.

You can take a self-assessment quiz, watch safety videos and read about how to improve your safety on the road at road-users.

Why not visit today?

Poetic Thoughts for Anzac Day 31

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

FRIEND’S DEATH INSPIRED A FAMOUS WAR POEM The famous In Flanders Fields Alexis Helmer, John – a war poem in the form of a McCrae’s close friend, was rondeau – was written on May killed during the battle on 3, 1915 by Canadian physiMay 2. McCrae performed the cian LtCol John McCrae. He burial service himself, noting was inspired to write it after how poppies quickly grew presiding over the funeral of around the graves of those his friend and fellow Soldier, who died at Ypres. The next Alexis Helmer, who had died day, he composed the poem in the Second Battle of Ypres. while sitting in the back of The references to the red an ambulance. poppies that grew over the Cyril Allinson was a graves of fallen Soldiers Sergeant Major in McCrae’s resulted in the remembrance unit. As he delivered the poppy becoming one of the brigade’s mail, he watched world’s most recognised McCrae working on the poem, memorial symbols for Soldiers noting that McCrae’s eyes who have died in conflict. kept returning to Helmer’s John McCrae was a Soldier, John McCrae; physician-turned-poet. grave as he wrote. When Physician and Poet. At handed the notepad, Allinson the age of 41, he enrolled with the Canadian read the poem and was so moved he immediately Expeditionary Force following the outbreak of committed it to memory. He described it as being World War 1. He had the option of joining the “almost an exact description of the scene in medical corps because of his training and age, front of us both”. but volunteered instead to join a fighting unit The poem reads: as a Gunner and Medical Officer.

He fought in the 2nd Battle of Ypres in Flanders, In Flanders fields the poppies blow Belgium, where the Germans launched one of Between the crosses, row on row, the first chemical attacks in the history of war That mark our place; and in the sky – attacking the Canadian position with chlorine The larks, still bravely singing, fly gas on April 22, 1915. But they were unable to Scarce heard amid the guns below. break through the Canadian line; it held for more than two weeks.

We are the Dead. Short days ago In a letter to his mother, John McCrae described We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, the battle as a “nightmare”: Loved and were loved, and now we lie “For 17 days and 17 nights none of us has In Flanders fields. had our clothes off, nor our boots even, except occasionally. In all that time while I was awake, Take up our quarrel with the foe: gunfire and rifle fire never ceased for 60 seconds.... To you from failing hands we throw And behind it all was the constant background The torch; be yours to hold it high. of the sights of the dead, the wounded, the If ye break faith with us who die maimed, and a terrible anxiety lest the line We shall not sleep, though poppies grow should give way.”

In Flanders fields.

Poems for Anzac Day Lest we forget – Death of innocence (1915–1918) “INNOCENT” it is said as they bury the dead, and over them placed a poppy of red.

They went to war to help mankind, unaware of what they’d find.

The thrill, the rush, excitement of the mind, but soon reality could have made them blind as they encompassed a cruel world of mankind.

They left our country in scores and droves, all decked out in their military clothes, World War 1 was under way, the Ottoman Empire in full sway, to beat all odds was their demand of the day.

The Anzacs arrived boat by boat, and went ashore float by float The world stood still as the men fought brave. It’s WAR! Who cared if they became a slave.

It’s eye for eye and tooth for tooth, no one’s holiday to stand aloof!

The British, the French, the Germans, the Turks, only Hell would reveal these loose cannon jerks! as intensity soared on the sand and the dirt.

Some lives were lost from almost day one, many others wounded, no battle won!

“Death of Innocence” for many lives, years later seen and it shouldn’t have been.

The suffering, the pain, the hurt, the hate, of this terrible atrocity, this shocking fate when nation against nation, man against man, the world is at war and broken the plan of Peace upon earth, good will to man.

The Bugle sounds as they gather round, the mound of earth – hollow, hallowed ground.

The ‘innocent’ lay still, buried to be, their soul at last has been set free.

God, whoever, wherever You are, surround this soldier from near or far.

The family so distant from war torn land, will cry out in death of the soldier band who left home and all in response to call, never the thought that their ‘loved one’ might fall.

Soldier Well Done! Your Eternity’s set, Lest we forget, Lest we forget

Written by Maj Colin G Burgess Padre, Mt Wellington/Panmure, RSA

Courage...commitment...and comrades It will be a truly heartfelt run for Wendy Joy Baker when she competes in the World Masters Games cross-country.

The event will be held in the Auckland Domain just five days she has presented her 2017 Anzac poem, Courage...commitment...and comrades (right), at the Anzac Day service in Mt Maunganui.

She is dedicating her run to her uncle, William Tarode Baker, who was killed at the Battle of Passchendaele in World War 1. His name is on a remembrance wall in the Auckland War Memorial Museum at the domain.

William Baker, who came from Otahuhu, in Auckland, was in the NZEF, Auckland Regiment, 1 Battalion.

An accomplished runner since her schooldays, Wendy Baker has continued to compete successfully in age group events. This years’s Masters Games cross-country will be run on April 30.

Poppies bloom in the field near Ypres, Belgium.

New life beats the battlefield odds Against the odds, new life occasionally came into being in the World War 1 battle zones. A story about the birth of new human life happened during a surprise gas attack on the French lines by the German Army on April 22, 1915.

At exactly 5 o’clock, as the gas cloud was released, a Belgian woman gave birth to a baby boy in the cellar of a cottage on the Zonnebeekseweg, just three kilometres from the poisonous gas cloud and the battle that followed it.

The spring of 1915 was the first time warm weather began to heat the countryside after the cold winter at war in 1914-1915.

In the region around Ypres in Belgian Flanders, the months of April and May 1915 were unusually warm. Farmers were ploughing their fields close to the front lines and new life was starting to grow.

One of the plants that began to grow in clusters on and around the battle zones was the red

field or corn poppy (its species name is papaver rhoeas). It is often found in or on the edges of fields where grain is grown.

The field poppy is an annual which flowers each year between about May and August. Its seeds are disseminated on the wind and can lie dormant in the ground for a long time. If the ground is disturbed from the early spring, the seeds will germinate and the poppy flowers will grow.

This is what happened in parts of the front lines in Belgium and France. Once the ground was disturbed by the fighting, the poppy seeds lying in the ground began to germinate and grow during the warm weather in the spring and summer months of 1915, 1916, 1917 and 1918.

The field poppy was also blooming in parts of the Turkish battlefields on the Gallipoli peninsula when the Anzac and British forces arrived at the start of the campaign in April 1915.

They enlisted with Courage.... not knowing what lay ahead Young Men and Women.... for their Country...they led In all hearts there was Commitment... ...to `never never give in` helped by Churchill`s inspiring words.... the war they did win But...to grieve for War Comrades... the loss was too great Men and Women sacrificed their souls .....they were military mates Tears should be shed.... to respect and honour their memory ...A poppy we place on a War Memorial.... so tender...and lovingly

Written by Wendy Joy Baker Poetess

We’re RSA Rita O’Brien 1435 was a sergeant in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF), RNZAF at Wigram, Christchurch during World War 2.

Rita, who now lives in a rest home in Rotorua, has sold poppies every Anzac Day for the last 66 years – although she did say last year that 2016 was her last fling. She will be 97 this year.

But hard work has never phased her. In her WAAF days, she and another young woman baked for 3000 personnel – scones and sugar buns every week-day, and a fruit cake for the weekend.

She has sent us this poem which she says she wrote many years ago for the King’ Empire Veterans organisation. But it slipped through the KEV cracks and was forgotten.

Not by Rita though. She has fished out her original copy and sent to RSA Review.

We’re RSA together once again To have a laugh and learn each other’s name, For we’re getting old, and it’s plain to see\ That comradeship goes deeper than the sea.

Our men they fought for king and country’s pride With pals we’ve lost and many who have died, But our veterans, those who now remain, Will share their love and friendship once again.

God grant that we will a ll be spared the time To give our help to those who’ve passed their prime, And in doing this for our RSAs We’ll spread the words ‘We will remember them every day’.

Written by Rita O’Brien RSA stalwart and Poppy-Seller extraordinaire

32

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

What’s On REGULAR MEETINGS AUCKLAND CMT/NS ASSOCIATION INC Meets monthly on third Tuesday, 1100 hours, New Lynn RSA, Auckland. New members welcome for friendship and camaraderie, fun and laughter, perhaps a light lunch. Activities include: guest speakers, outings, bus trips. Anzac Day parades; unit parades at Auckland Naval Base HMNZS Philomel for Armistice Day memorial service to pay tribute and lay a wreath. Contact: Mark Sinclair, president – 09 534 8138; Brian Caltaux, secretary– 09 4209794.

CMT/NS ASSOCIATION CHRISTCHURCH INC Anyone who did Compulsory Military Training or National Service welcome.

Meets monthly, Papanui RSA, Christchurch.

Variety of activities. Contact: Colin Rae – 28 Cranbrook Ave, Christchurch 8053; 03 3583099; colandglen@hotmail.co.nz.

ITALY STAR ASSOCIATION (CHRISTCHURCH BRANCH) Meetings – 29 Apr, 30 Sep, 26 Nov (Christmas luncheon), 2pm, Papanui RSA, 55 Bellvue Ave, Christchurch. Lots of fun, talks by veterans,historians and people who have been to reunions in Italy, military New displays, DVD shows. Contact: Peter Scott – 27 Kenwyn Ave, St Albans, Christchurch 8052; 03 3556732; peter.judy@actrix.co.nz.

ROYAL NEW ZEALAND NAVAL ASSOCIATION, PAPANUI CHRISTCHURCH BRANCH Meets first Tuesday of month, 5.30pm, Papanui RSA, C hristchurch. Regular social events. All who served in RNZN or Commonwealth navies, and partners welcome.. Contact: Gavin James, president, 9811538; Dennis Moffat, secretary/ treasurer 3236317.

SOUTHLAND CMT GROUP Ex-CMT and National Servicemen welcome. Meets monthly, third Thursday. Gore RSA or nominated venue.

Usually lunch, on-site visit, or speaker. Contact: John Turner – 03 20084, ardlussa@farmside. co.nz.

REUNIONS/EVENTS/MEETINGS MARCH

No 17 (CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH) SQUADRON AIR TRAINING 75th anniversary 24-25 Mar, old Wigram Air Force Base and Air Force Museum, Christchurch. Friday evening – meet and greet; Saturday – lunch and combined wing parade, dine and dance in evening. Total cost: $100 per person. Register your interest – www.17squadronatc.com/?=reunion; ww.facebook.com/events/1744533662434248/.

APRIL

B COMPANY SENZAKI, 22ND BATTALION, J FORCE 7-9 Apr, Kaitaia.

All those with a connection welcome.

Contact: Rex Dawson – 09 4084871

MAY

NELSON BAYS TF.CMT.NS Reunion 12-14 May. Contact: Lindsay J Jukes – 20 Hebberd Place, Richmond, Nelson 7020; ljukes@vodafone.net.nz.

VICTOR COMPANY (v1) VIETNAM 1967 50TH REUNION 12-14 May, Waiouru Military Camp (where it all began). Members, wives, partners and family members welcome. Brother veterans from V Coy and W Coy also welcome. Exciting programme being planned, details to be mailed.

Advice of your address, email, and enquiries: Brian Wilson – 09 4782300; b.wil@xtra.co.nz.

JUNE

VICTORY CLUB DARTS 5 Jun. Hosted by Manurewa RSA, Auckland.

RNZRSA NATIONAL WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION Annual meeting/conference 12-13 Jun, Swanson RSA. Contact: Angel Erstich, president, RSA National Women’s Association – P O Box 8, Awanui, Far North 0451; 09 4067195.

RNZN ELECTRICAL, RADIO ELECTRICAL & WEAPONS ELECTRICAL REUNION 16-19 Jun, Tauranga RSA. Contact: Maurice Mitchell,, Greenies Reunion, P.O.Box 9352, Newmarket, Auckland 1149; 021 945516; alarm1@xtra.co.nz.

RSA NATIONAL INDOOR BOWLS TOURNAMENT 24-25 Jun, Hosted by Tokoroa RSA. Entries close May 20: P.O.Box 31,Tokoroa; 07 8869291; 027 2814896.

secretary/treasurer – 07 3089678; 8a Anzac Ave, Whakatane 3120.

Bev Cousins, secretary/treasurer, 09 2382499; bevcuz@xtra.co.nz.

BRITISH AIRBORNE FORCES (NZ) INC Are (or were) you para-trained and like to meet other ex-(or current) paras? Regular meetings of Northern (Auckland to Taupo), Central (Taupo to Wellington) and Southern (South Island). Full membership – all ranks of Parachute Regiment, SAS, support arms (engineers, signals, medics, artillery etc) and those with special service to British Airborne Forces; associate membership to immediate family; afflilate membership to airborne units of other countries. Contact: Frank Clark, president – 04 2336123. Roy Tilley, secretary – 04 5660850, rmt@xtra.co.nz. Website, www.britishairbornenz.tripod.com.

NEW ZEALAND BRANCH, ROYAL MARINES ASSOCIATION Meets two-monthly, 2pm, Pt Chevalier RSA, Auckland. Full membership to serving or former RM, RMR and RN, HM Forces RM units, family members, Royal Marines Cadets.

Contact: Peter Collins – peter-collins@xtra. co.nz; www.royalmarinesassociation.org/nz/ rma_nz_home.html.

JULY

CMT ASSOCIATION SOUTH CANTERBURY BRANCH Ex-CMT and National Servicemen welcome. Contact: Bruce Townshend – 14 Ewen Rd, Temuka 7920; 03 6156637; Temuka-RSA@ xtra.co.nz.

NZ MALAYAN VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION 31 Jul. Return to Malaysia tour in recognition of Merdeka 60th anniversary, Kuala Lumpur, 31 Aug. Contact: Maher Escorted Tours – 0800 500518; bill.wullie@gmail.com.

CMT/NATIONAL SERVICE ASSOCIATION CHRISTCHURCH INC Ex-CMT and National Servicemen welcome. Contact: Colin Rae – 28 Cranbrook Ave, Christchurch 8053; 03 3583099; colandglen@hotmail.co.nz.

SEPTEMBER

EX-RAF HALTON, RAF LOCKING OR RAF CRANWELL AIRCRAFT, RNZAF APPRENTICES. Contact: Ed Austin – 67/46 Beresford St, Pukekohe 2120, 09 2392698, edaustin38@gmail.com.

EXERCISE TROPICAL DAWN 1988: 1 PLATOON (DELTA) REUNION 2 Sep, 3.30pm, Club Carterton.

Contact: James King – 61 Brooklyn Rd, Carterton; 06 3799007.

NOVEMBER

RSA NATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT 6-9 Nov, hosted by Clubs Hastings at Hastings and Hawke’s Bay golf clubs. Open to RSA members who area 18-hole New Zealand Golf Association affiliated members. Entries close 2 Oct, limited to 120 players. Contact: General Manager, Clubs Hastings – P.O.Box 560, Hastings 4156; 06 8788808; info@clubshastings; www.clubshastings.co.nz.

VICTOR 2 COY VIETNAM 1967-68 50-years reunion 10-12 Nov, Tauranga RSA. Fifty years since company landed in Vietnam. All who served with Victor 2 Co and their dependants encouraged to attend. Contact: Bukit Hill – 13 Bledisloe St, Masterton; 06 3772979; 027 6590679; bukithill@xtra.co.nz.

ROYAL NEW ZEALAND ARMOURED CORPS CAMBRAI CENTENARY COMMEMORATIONS 20-25 Nov, weekly series of events – parades, open days and services – across New Zealand. Will include current and former RNZAC personnel, and general public. Details top follow. Information: RNZAC Cambrai Centenary Celebrations facebook page – www.facebook.com /RNZAC17/.

NOVEMBER 2018 RNZN ENGINEERING BRANCH REUNION 10-12 Nov, Rangiora RSA. Information: Graeme Matheson – Rangiora RSA. 82 Victoria St, Rangiora 7400, or Bill Lochrie – New Brighton RSA,21 Mafeking St,New Brighton, Christchurch.

ASSOCIATION CONTACTS BAY OF PLENTY AREA, NEW ZEALAND KOREA VETERANS Independent organisation since January 1 and the cessation of New Zealand Korea Veterans’ Association. Active in the Katikati, Kawerau, Matamata, Mt Maunganui, Opotiki, Paeroa, Papamoa, Tauranga, Te Aroha, Te Puke, Waihi and Whakatane areas. Publishes Stand Easy newsletter and plans at least three luncheon meetings a year. Contact: Bill Clark, president – 07 5714048; Lindsay Weavers,

HOROWHENUA ARTILLERY ASSOCIATION – LEVIN 50th year; gunners, ex-gunners, associated corps. Meets May and Sep to celebrate Gunners’ Day and El Alamein Day, lunch, Levin RSA. Contact: Adam Gibson – 34 Gordon Place, Levin; 06 3684187.

ITALY STAR ASSOCIATION (CHRISTCHURCH BRANCH) New members, veterans, family members, historians. Contact Peter Scott, chairman – 27 Kenwyn Ave, St Albans, Christchurch 8052; 03 3556732; peter.judy@actrix.co.nz.

J FORCE ASSOCIATION, WESTERN BAY OF PLENTY BRANCH Meets third Wednesday of the month at Mt Maunganui RSA. Welcomes visitors.

Membership: 19 veterans, 22 wives and widows.

Activities: Christmas dinner, quarterly 8 ball competition, short trips. Contact: President, Ron Browne – 07 5758916; ronaldbrowne@xtra.co.nz.

MOUNTED TROOPERS’ ASSOCIATION (MTA) North Island branch of the Royal NZ Armoured Corps Association (RNZAC). If you are serving or have served, in an armoured unit in any way, you are eligible to join. Family members of deceased personnel welcome. The aim is to bring comrades together through national reunions, member’s birthdays, funerals, unveilings and regimental occasions to which the association is invited, and to provide collegial support to members. The MTA is managed by a six-person trust board: Stew Couchman (chair), Doug Walker (secretary), Zac Hunter (treasurer), Morris Meha and Jim Taylor.

Membership enquires, application form: Zac Hunter – 027 343 2017, ikehunter@xtra.co.nz; Stew Couchman – 06 3258593, BLongami@xtra. co.nz; Doug Walker – 027 4950473, walkd@tpk. govt.nz. Annual subscription of $25 includes membership of both the MTA and RNZAC. NEW ZEALAND ARMY BAND ASSOCIATION For ex-members of NZ Army Band nd 1 RNZIR/ NZ Regt bands. To promote and forward interests and welfare of members, and foster relationship between the association and the NZ Army Band.

Committee meets quarterly at the Papanui RSA, Christchurch; all members welcome. Contact: Wayne Shears – 03 9428636; wayneshears@ outlook.co.nz.

NEW ZEALAND BATTLE OF CRETE ASSOCIATION Contacts: Paul London, president, 06 3782388;

NEW ZEALAND MALAYAN VETERANS ASSOCIATION INC Welcomes new members who served with Commonwealth forces or police in Malaya/Malaysia/Borneo or Singapore. Contact: Paul Anderson – PO Box 8112, Cherrywood, Tauranga 3145; 07 5767757; 027 2079623.

OX & BUCKS LI, KINGS ROYAL RIFLE CORPS, RIFLE BRIGADE AND ROYAL GREEN JACKETS All past members of RGJ and former regiments invited. Contact: Frank Jones – 09 4766974.

REGULAR FORCE CADET ASSOCIATION (INC) Provides contact between ex-cadets and enables them to re-establish contacts. Membership: $10 a kevsyear (1 Jul-30 Jun. Contact: Secretary – RF Cadet Association, P.O.Box 715, Paraparaumu 5032; www.rfcadet,org.nz.

RNZAF COMMAND AND STAFF COLLEGE GRADUATES New Zealand Defence Force Command and Staff College has formed an alumni association. Records of previous associations’ members misplaced during move from Whenuapai to Trentham in 2004. If you wish to join, would like information, or wish to re-connect with former colleagues and course members, contact: Alumni secretary NZDF CSC – Trentham Military Camp, Private Bag 905, Upper Hutt 5140; 04 5271008; 04 5271009 (fax); csc.alumni@nzdf.mil.nz.

SOUTH AFRICAN MILITARY VETERANS OF AUSTRALASIA (SAMVOA) All who served in uniform in South Africa and now live in New Zealand are invited to join. Also in Australia.

Aims to preserve memories, and commemorate those who were injured or fell in action. Attends Remembrance Day and Anzac Day parades; regular meetings. Information: Chris Pattison – 021 2316612; ytrose@vodafone.co.nz.

THE REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION Seeks members to rekindle their activity with the association.

Regular meetings at Papanui RSA, Christchurch.

Send rank, name, address, phone number and e-mail address to: Frank Newsome – Unit 19, 53 Condell Ave, Papanui, Christchurch 8053; 03 3525471; frankandaudrey@clear.net.nz.

TS VINDICATRIX ASSOCIATION Ex-Vindicatrix boys – those who served on training ship TS Vindicatrix are invited to join Lower North Island branch. Write: Arthur Woolard – 21 Pohutukawa Drive, R.D.1, Levin 5571.

33

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

RSA Life RSA cooks up Xmas cheer for residents A group from the Te Puke RSA Charitable Trust took some Christmas cheer to the residents of the Carter House retirement home Left: A couple of Santa’s helpers, Jan Forrest (back) and Gill Jeninson (far right), with (from left) Les May, Peggy Peake, Betty Collings and Margueritte Park.

Right: Santa Blue Forrest (back right) and helper Gill Jeninson (back left) with Peter Reekie (left) and Frank Tucker.

KEV OLDER THAN THE RSA Ross Wardlaw President, New Zealand King’s Empire Veterans Most RSA members almost certainly know little about the King’s Empire Veterans, let alone that it is an affiliated body within the RSA – and it pre-dates the RSA by 16 years.

The New Zealand National Kings Empire Veterans was established in 1900 by the then governor of New Zealand, Lord Ranfurly. It was known as the Empire Veterans’ Association.

Ranfurly was concerned that there were more than 7000 Veterans with service going back beyond the Crimea and the New Zealand Land Wars, who needed support and welfare care.

The change to Kings Empire Veterans came in 1910 when a Royal Charter gave permission to use the King’s title in the name. While KEV numbers have diminished through natural attrition, several branches remain.

After the formation of the RSA in 1916, there was some interchange of members; but many KEV members decided to remain with KEV, aligned with but not a part of the RSA. It has taken 98 years to change, but in the last three years, the KEV has moved forward at what could be called great speed. In 2014 a motion was put to the National Executive for the KEV to become an affiliate member of the national RSA, and a group was formed to move in this direction.

Several changes of President – four in three years – delayed progress. However,

the National Secretary/Treasurer, Rick Thame (from Rotorua) and I headed to Wellington to meet the then RSA National President, Don McIver. Don and I served in Vietnam together (Don was battalion 2IC for 4RAR/ V6 Coy in 1971, and I was one of those guys Soldiers never forget – a Cook).

We were advised to apply to become an affiliated body. A remit to the 2014 RSA National Executive meeting in Wellington received a unanimous vote in favour. This gave us great confidence because as an affiliate member of the RSA, we are on the inside , not on the outside. In May 2016 I was elected KEV National President.

So, why didn’t KEV move towards affiliation for so long. It seems that many World War 1 and 2 Veterans felt the social side of the RSA was not attractive, particularly to older men.

KEV also filled a very important position: After a vacancy of more than 12 months, the position of Patron was filled by Reg Canty, a long-time KEV and Korean War Veteran, from Silverdale.

And, in a major change to the KEV constitution, the major criterion for membership was broadened – from requiring a medal recognising active service in a war zone to accepting RSA Members awarded a medal for military service anywhere. The change was the result of the need to maintain membership, and the diminishing number of Members who have had that experience.

We no longer have Returned Service or ex-Service Members; all RSA Members can now become KEV Members; and

there no age limit on new Members.

Nor do we have “Associate Members”, but we welcome RSA Members wanting to be involved as “KEV supporters”.

The KEV still has the W Badge for widows of Veterans. The new Supporters’ badge is the same as the W Badge, but has an S for Supporter. This is for non-ex-Service people wanting to become members; they pay the yearly membership fees of their local KEV. KEVs should contact Secretary-Treasurer Rich Thame for the new badges However, there is one very important thing all KEV groups must adhere to – the President of any KEV branch still has to have “medallic” recognition.

We suggest that if your KEV has three members with medallic recognition, you ask them to be President for a year each. Also, ask other Members to take on the other Executive roles. There is a KEV group in the Waikato with two Secretaries and two Treasurers, and a Vice-President’s role shared by non-exService members. They are going well.

Because KEV members know about and strongly hold fast to the RSA’s core values of remembrance, compassion and camaraderie, we can be something of a “ginger group” in an Association and ensure that these core values are not only recognised,

The King’s Empire Veterans national executive – Back (from left): Rick Thame, Secretary-Treasurer (Rotorua), Mark Harris (Silverdale), Trevor Wylde (New Plymouth), Harvey Dalton (Thames). Front (from left): Peter Callahan, Vice-President (Blenheim) Reg Canty, Patron (Silverdale), Ross Wardlaw, National President (Te Awamutu). Absent: Grant Box (Thames), Frank Townley, Vice-President (Silverdale).

12x4 FDANZ

Club pair honoured at Katikati Katikati RSA President Fred Craig (left) has been awarded RSA Life Membership of the Club, and VicePresident Peter Sparrow (right), who is also the Waikato King Country Bay of Plenty RSA District Secretary, received the M Badge and Certificate. The District President, Clive Collingwood (centre), presented the awards.

Levin’s Les recognised for service

Les MacDonald’s many years of service to the Levin RSA has been recognised with Life Membership

by President Wayne Kaye at a Club awards evening. Les, a Veteran with service in Borneo, continues to work on behalf of members in his role as the club’s welfare and funerals officer. Left: Les with his grand-daughters at the awards evening.

34

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Local RSAs NORTHLAND Ph 09 407 8585 37 Cobham Road

KERIKERI

AVONDALE RSA Overlooking the Racecourse

RSA (Inc) Visitors and Guests Most Welcome

Come & spend times in a friendly environment with your friends.

Bar Hours: Tues - Thurs: 2pm - 11.30pm, Fri: 12 Noon - 11.30pm Sat: 11am - 11.30pm, Sun: 12 Noon - 9.30pm New faces very welcome. Memberships available.

Entertainment: Fri, Sat & Sundays Restaurant Open: Fri, Sat & Sun: 5.30pm - 8.30pm

Restaurant Wed-Sun 5.30 - 8.30pm

KAITAIA FAR NORTH

Bar Open Seven Days From 3.30pm

(Kaitaia) RSA CLUB Matthews Avenue, Kaitaia

AUCKLAND

When visiting the Far North you are welcomed to visit our Clubrooms where comfort and friendship is assured.

Billiards - Snooker - Pool - Bowls - Darts

Pleasant lounge and excellent bar facilities

Hours 11am-10pm, Mon to Sat. Noon-6pm Sun Courtesy Coach Available Please phone (09) 408 0423

WHANGAREI

HOBSONVILLE

114 Hobsonville Road • Ph: 09 416 7227 Restaurant Ph: 09 416 9239 • E: hobbyrsa@xtra.co.nz

www.whangareirsa.co.nz

1 Chapel St Russell 0202 Ph: 09 403 7773 Fax: 09 403 7885Email: russellrsa@xtra.co.nz www.russellrsa.org.nz OPEN EVERY DAY EXCEPT TUESDAY FROM 11:30AM TILL CLOSE Diggers Restaurant open 6 days Lunch & Dinner Bar snacks available Pool, Darts, Gaming Machines Huge outdoor courtyard

Come and enjoy our clubrooms while holidaying in historical Russell We will make you welcome

Open Tues - Thurs from 2pm. Fri - Sun from Midday.

• Restaurant open Fri - Sun lunch, Wed - Sun Dinner.

Excellent meals at reasonable prices.

• Live entertainment last Friday of each month.

• Quiz Nights 7pm 3rd Thursday of every month.

Car Boot Sale last Sunday of every month 8am, sellers $8 • Excellent Bar staff & service • Large car park. Easy bus turnnig • Coach Tours welcome - advance booking essential • Facilities available for function hire • Other facilities include darts, pool, indoor bowls & fishing club

THE SMALL RSA WITH THE BIG HEART

We are open everyday from 11am Meals Daily from 11am till 9pm Great quality food at affordable prices All visitors are most welcome to enjoy our club facilities • • • • • •

Sky TV TAB Pod Gaming Machines Pool Tables Courtesy Van Available Facilities available for function hire

BIRKENHEAD RSA Recreation Dr, Birkenhead, North Shore Ph: 09 418 2424 Fax: 09 418 3054 Email: secman@birkenheadrsa.com www.birkenheadrsa.com

Visitors always welcome

CLUBROOMS OPEN SAT - MON 11AM TUES - FRI 9 AM BAR OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 11AM DON STOTT MEMORIAL RESTAURANT PROVIDES EXCELLENT ECCONOMICAL A LA CARTE MEALS WED-FRIDAY 12 -2PM WED-SUNDAY FROM 5.30PM. GROUPS BY ARRANGEMENT POOL * DARTS * I/D BOWLS * TAB LARGE SCREEN SKY * GAMING MACHINES TEA/COFFEE & LIGHT MEALS ANYTIME

Mt Wellington Panmure RSA 163 Queens Rd, Panmure

Ph: 09 570 5913 Fax: 09 570 5903 Email secrsa@vodafone.co.nz Bar Menu Seven Days. Bus loads by arrangement.

Live Entertainment every 2nd Friday

Darts - Pool - Snooker - Gaming Machines - Courtesy coach available for local pick-ups / drop-offs When in Auckland Visit our Friendly Club.

NEW LYNN

Memorial RSA (Inc)

BAR & TAB FACILITIES Open 7days Gaming Facilities FREYBERG RESTAURANT Lunches: Tues-Sun 12-2pm, Dinner: Wed-Sat 5.30pm open

The Best in the West

SWANSON MEMORIAL RSA 11am - 11.30pm Sun 1pm - 9pm

28 Neville St Warkworth Ph 09 425 8568

Opening Hours Mon - Tues from 12.30pm, Wed - Sat 11am, Sun 3pm Gunner Restaurant: Wed $10 Roast, Thu & Fri Lunch & Dinner

14 Gaming Machines - 4 Large Pool Tables - 4 Dart Boards Live band every Friday evening - TAB - Sky TV

IN THE  OF HOWICK Fridays & Saturdays from 7 pm DINE & DANCE LIVE MUSIC www.howickrsa.co.nz

The Orpheus Restaurant Open Thurs - Sat lunch 12 - 2 pm, dinner 5.30 - 8pm Bus Trip Lunches phone Rona Snooker - Pool - Darts - Warriors Supporters Section

We have excellent facilities for reunions and other functions NEW RETURNED AND SERVICE MEMBERS WELCOME.

MEALS Our spacious Restaurant allows us to cater for up to 200 people at any one time Lunch open from Wednesday - Sunday 12 - 2pm Dinners Wednesday - Saturday 5 - 8.30pm Sunday Buffet 5 - 7.30pm We have large outdoor garden area, Big Screen for major games, Sky T.V., pool, bowls, darts, cards, fishing, golf, quiz.

HENDERSON RSA

66-70 Railside Ave Ph (09) 838 9012 www.hsnrsa.co.nz Sec | Manager Barry (Gus ) Rieper

Ph: 09 528 6245 & 09 521 2710

ORAKEI RSA

(Members)

Hours: Mon : 12-7.30pm. Tues:11am-8pm

Wed: 11-9pm. Thurs & Fri: 11-11pm. Sat: 11-9pm. Sun: 2-7pm.

Bistro Lunch Tues-Fri 12-2pm. Evening Thurs-Fri 6-8pm Function room bookings for catering.

Sports sections, gaming machines ,Sky TV, big screen TV Handy to city centre, Ellerslie Race Course, Kelly Tarlton Underwater World, Eastern suburbs, Mission Bay, St Helliers, Remuera etc.

ALL NEW MEMBERS WELCOME

HOURS Mon toThurs 11am - 11pm. Fri & Sat

WARKWORTH & DISTRICTS RSA Inc

When visiting Auckland’s Eastern Suburbs call into our pleasant clubrooms and enjoy our hospitality

We welcome all RSA members & their guests to enjoy thefriendly atmosphere & excellent facilities at our clubrooms

Handy to rail & bus. Shop in New Lynn & relax in our spacious clubrooms

158 Broadway, Kaikohe Ph 09 401 2368 kaikohersa@xtra.co.nz “Look us up on Facebook”

HOWICK RSA

Phone: 09 534 9702 • 25 Wellington St Howick

Inquiries to Sec/Manager 09 636 6644 PO Box 13016, Onehunga

Band Friday Nights “Friendliest Club in The North”

Friday night raffles, Entertainment Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun

Major Games on Big Screen or Weekend Entertainment

2 Veronica St Ph: 09 827 3411 Where a friendly welcome is assured. A must stopover when visiting Auckland

Kaikohe & District Memorial RSA (Inc)

Restaurant, Family Karaoke Sundays from 1pm Functions venue available email admin@ptchevrsa.co.nz

A warm welcome is assured to all members and visitors.

Special welcome to local and out of town visitors.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT WED: 1.30-4PM. FRI & SAT: FROM 7.00PM

RUSSELL RSA

Affiliated Members and Guests Most Welcome

RSA

THE HUB OF THE CITY

Warmly welcomes visitors to our Clubrooms at 7 Rust Ave Bar Service 7 days Snooker, Pool, Darts, Gaming Courtesy Coach Bistro Wed to Fri 12-2 & 5-8p.m.

Saturday 6-8p.m.

PH 09 438 3792 admin@whangareirsa.co.nz

Ph 09 846 8673 1136 Great North Rd

WAIHEKE RSA

Whatever you’re interested in we’ve got it covered, visit us today!

EAST COAST BAYS RSA (Inc)

15 Bute Road Browns Bay Ph: 09 478 8033 North of the Harbour Bridge ecbrsa@xtra.co.nz

INC

29 Belgium Street, Ostend

Clubrooms and Bar Open 7 Days Restaurant Open 6 Days, closed Monday Take advantage of the free transport to our doorstep for Super Gold Card holders.

Spoil yourselves with a trip to our wonderful Island and enjoy our hospitality.

Ph: (09) 372 9019 Bar: (09) 372 5554

Service with a smile, and bar prices better than most.

18 gaming machines, self service TAB, Housie every Thursday, live entertainment Friday and Saturday evenings, 4 snooker tables, 3 pool tables and 8 competition dart boards. 5 big screen TV’s.

Restaurant: (09) 372 6655 E-mail: waiheke.rsa@xtra.co.nz

PAPATOETOE & DISTRICTS RSA (Inc)

22 Wallace Rd Ph: 09 278 6372 Email: manager@papatoetoersa.org.nz Bar Hours: Mon. 2pm - 7pm, Tues - Wed. 2pm - 10pm Thurs. 11am - 10.30pm Fri. 11am - 10pm Sat. 11am - 10.30pm Sun. 12pm - 7pm BISTRO Lunch: Thurs - Fri. 12pm - 2pm (Last orders 1.45pm) Dinner: Thurs - Sat. 6pm - 8.30pm (Last orders 8.15)

(All times and days may vary without notice).

Social Nights with live bands: Thurs Family Nights - Entertainment on the second Friday of the month Housie Tuesday & Friday nights

Snooker Gaming Machines 8 Ball I/D Bowls Darts Sky Tv

Whether you are going to or from the Airport or just passing through pop in & spend a relaxing & friendly time with us.

We Are Your Airport Club

http://papatoetoersa.wix.com/rsa-papatoetoe

When heading north, staying or visiting the North Shore, stop at East Coast Bays RSA Lunches Tues-Sat 12-2pm.Dinner Wed Carvery 6-8pm Thurs-Sat 6-8.30pm Sun from 5.30pm VISIT OUR CLUBROOMS Open: Mon-Sat from 11am Sun 2-8pm

DANCING FRI & SAT 7.30PM

Coach tours welcome by arrangement Gaming Machine * Darts * Pool * Snooker Housie I/d Bowls * Dinning & Dancing * TAB * Raffles

A WARM WELCOME TO ALL MEMBERS & THEIR GUESTS

WAIKATO / KING COUNTRY / BAY OF PLENTY

TE AROHA MEMORIAL RSA (Inc) Rewi Street

Ph 07 884 8124

Club open from Mon 3pm- Tues - Sat 2pm, Meals Available Thurs, Fri, Sat from 6pm A warm, friendly welcome awaits you

VISITORS CORDIALLY WELCOME

OPOTIKI COUNTY RSA INC When passing through Opotiki call in and enjoy our hospitality.

We are the Gateway to East Cape

Glen Eden RSA

663 SWANSON RD - PH 833 9013

9 Glendale Rd West Auckland Ph: 09 818 4219 Web: www.glenedenrsa.co.nz

A WARM INVITATION IS EXTENDED TO RSA MEMBERS & GUESTS TO THE FRIENDLIEST RSA IN THE WEST

Entertainment: Fri & Sat.

Meals Lunch: Tues - Fri. Dinner: Thurs - Sun.

We are better than the rest. We are the friendliest in the West

Club Hours: Mon-Sat 1pm till late Sun 2pm till late Meals + Bar Snacks 7 days Membership draw nights Wed, Fri, Sat. Snooker - Pool - Indoor Bowls - Darts St John Street, OPOTIKI. Phone (07) 315 6174

35

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Local RSAs MT MAUNGANUI

RETURNED & SERVICES ASSOCIATION (INC) 544 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui

RSA TAURANGA

27 Studholme Street Morrinsville Ph: 07 889-7014

1237 Cameron Road, Greerton, Tauranga

Ph 07 578 9654 Fax 07 577 0715 E: admin@tgarsa.co.nz | www.tgarsa.co.nz

THE NEW GENERATION RSA

Clubrooms open 7 days Mon/Tues 10.00am-9.00pm Wed/Thurs 11.00am-10.00pm Fri/Sat 11.00am-11.00pm Sunday noon-8.00pm

Restaurant open 7 days Lunch: Mon/Fri Noon-1.30pm Dinner: Mon/Sat 6.00-8.00pm Sunday: Carvery 5.30pm-7.30pm

Entertainment every Friday & Saturday night, Sundays from 4.00pm Regular Shows.

TAB, 18 Gaming Machines, 3 Eight Ball & 8 Snooker Tables, Sky TV, Big Screens & Data Projector, Courtesy Bus, Friendly Members, Great Staff, Wonderful Food, 12 Beers on tap, Excellent Wines, All This in the best climate in NZ Phone / Fax: 07 575 4477 Web: www.mtrsa.co.nz Email: mtrsa@xtra.co.nz

Hours: Tues - Fri: 3pm - 10pm, Sat 3pm - Late, 3rd Sunday each month: 3pm - 8pm

Big Screen TV’s, Snooker, Pool, Darts, Indoor Bowl, Cards, 18 Gaming Machines, Live Bands

Moorish Restaurant: Thurs - Sat 5pm - 8pm Lunch every 2nd Tuesday 11am - 1pm

Bar Hours - Open 7 Days - From 11.00am

Family Lounge: Regular entertainment, 10 gaming machines with $1000 jackpot, Sky TV on the big screens, pool & snooker tables, indoor & outdoor bowls, fishing and darts.

Open 7 Days from Breakfast - 7.00am - Lunch - 12.00 noon Dinner - 5.00pm

www.morrinsvillersa.org.nz

Affiliated Members, Guests and Potential Members Welcome

“When in the Bay stay with us” Motor Inn accommodation available Excellent Rates “Visitors Welcome Anytime”

MATAMATA

MEMORIAL R.S.A. (Inc.) Ngaio Street Ph: 07 888 7190 Open from Mon- Sat 3pm, Sun 4pm.

Poppyfields Restaurant:

Open for bus tours & private functions by arrangement

CITIZENS CITIZENS RSA RSA

179 -185 Jellicoe St TE TE PUKE PUKE Ph: 07 573 8555

Open from 11am Seven days a week All RSA members & Visitors are most welcome to our warm & friendly, air conditioned club

TAUPO “The Centre Of it All” * Gaming Machines * Sky Tv * Snooker * 8 Ball

OPEN 7 DAYS PER WEEK Restaurant Open:Lunch: Mon- Sat. Dinner:Mon-Sun • Live entertainment Fri & Sat nights • Parking • Conference room • Taxi chits available for discounted fares

Membership still open. Affiliated members Welcome

Conveniently located to Marine Parade, motels and city centre THERE ARE NO STRANGERS AMONG US, ONLY FRIENDS WE HAVE NOT MET.

Otaki & District Memorial RSA

4 Market St, P: 07 824 8905, E: ngaruawahiarsa@gmail.com

Open 7 days, Poppies Restaurant available at RSA Visit us on Facebook

A warm, sunshine welcome is extended to all visitors to our modern, comfortable clubrooms

Top meals at reasonable prices

Oaktree Restaurant

NGARUAWAHIA RSA (Inc)

Friendly social atmosphere. Entertainment including live music, raffles, quizzes. Children welcome till 8:30pm.

Pool,Darts, Gaming Machines, Sky TV, Courtesy Van

NAPIER RSA

34 Vautier Street, Napier Office: 06 835 7629 Fax: 06 835 1357 Club: 06 835 1034

TE AWAMUTU

District Memorial RSA (Inc) 381 ALEXANDER STREET P. 07 8713707 E. tarsa@xtra.co.nz

EAST COAST - HAWKES BAY WAIRARAPA - TARANAKI MANAWATU - WELLINGTON

Turn into the main street at the traffic filter and look for our Rose Garden at the end of the main shopping area.

Bar Hours - Mon-Thurs: 11am- 9pm Fri: 11-11pm Sat: 11-10pm Sun: 1- 8pm

Restaurant Hours

Feilding RSA

Sun, Mon, Wed, Thurs 5:30 to 7:30pm Fri & Sat 5:30 to 8:30pm Lunch Thursday 12pm noon Groups catered for during week on request

based in the Rangitikei Club, 10-12 Bowen St, Feilding Open Tues - Sat from 11am - Dining Room Thu-Sat (Members gather in the ANZAC Cove for the Ode 6pm Friday night)

‘ROSE of the WAIKATO’

All welcome - visitors please sign the visitors book

Come and visit our friendly Club the

HAMILTON

Combined Returned Services Club

Rostrevor Street, Po Box 9028 Ph 07 8380131 Fax 07 8340170 Email: hamcrsc@clear.net.nz. Web: www.hamcrsc.co.nz

OPEN 7 DAYS Club Restaurant Lunches Tues-Fri Dinner Tues-Sun from 5.30pm.

FUNCTION BOOKINGS BY ARRANGEMENT 18 Gaming Machines * Sky Big Screen * ATM *Eft Pos * 8 Ball * Snooker * Euchre * 500 * Darts * I/D Bowls

WANGANUI Great Entertainment...

S

BER MEM E NEW ELCOM W

Live Bands 18 Gaming Machines TAB Terminal Big Screen TVs' 8 Ball * Darts * Bowls Euchre * Housie Raffles * Members' Jackpots

Gallipoli Restaurant

Lunch Tuesday to Saturday from 11.30am Dinner Monday & Wednesday to Saturday from 5.30pm Tuesday Pension Day Special - Lunches Whiteboard Dinner Specials

… MEMBERS AND BONA FIDE GUESTS WELCOME ...

170 St Hill Street, Wanganui Phone: Clubrooms 345 5750 * Restaurant 345 4140 *

Courtesy Bus 027 345 5750

Email: admin@wanganuirsa.co.nz * Website: www.wanganuirsa.co.nz

9 Raukawa Street Ph: 06 36 46221 Open 7 Days Restaurant – Tues, Fri, Sat & Sun roast lunch TAB - Sky - Snooker - Darts - Gaming Machines Regular entertainment Affiliated Members and Guests most welcome

SOUTH TARANAKI RSA (Inc) Bar Hours: Mon, Tues 3-7pm Wed 3-9pm, Thurs 3-7pm.

Fri, Sat 3-9pm Clubrooms open some mornings Bistro Meals: Fri. 5-7pm

Princess Street Hawera When in our area you are cordially invited to visit our Clubrooms & enjoy our hospitality. A friendly welcome is assured to all.

1 Easton Street, Ph: 06 3637670 Fax: 06 3636838 Email: foxtonrsa@xtra.co.nz www.foxtonrsa.co.nz Friendly & safe environment (children welcomed)

Open:

Mon. & Tues.

Wednesday Thursday Fri. & Sat. Sunday First & last Sun of the month

11am - 7pm 11am - 9pm 11am - 10pm 11am - 12pm 2pm - 7pm 12pm - 7pm

Reasonably priced quality meals available: Lunch – Thurs., Fri., Sat. 12pm to 1.30pm Sun (first and last of the month) Dinner –Thurs., Fri. & Sat. 6pm to 8.00pm SKY TV, big screen, pool, darts, pokies, juke box Campervans welcomed (two sites are powered) Venue available for hire for special events and functions

Poppies Restaurant Open Tues – Fri for lunch, 12pm-2pm Open Mon – Sat for dinner, 5pm-8pm Closed Sunday

Club Hours Mon- Sat: 10.30am - Late.

Sun: 2 - 8pm Horomatangi Street Phone: 07 378 7476 Please visit our wesite at: www.tauporsa.co.nz

WHANGAMATA RSA (INC) 324 Port Road, Whangamata Ph/Fax: 07 865 9419 Email: whangamata.rsa@actrix.co.nz Web: www.whangamatarsanz.com

Gateway to the Coromandel Peninsula

Taumarunui & District RSA 10 Marae St, Taumarunui

PO Box 24 PH: 07 895 7517 FAX: 07 895 8343 Email: taumrsa@xtra.co.nz

MANAGER: John Callinan MEMBERS: 862

Clubrooms Open: 7 days from 11 am Restaurant Open: 6 days from 11 am Closed Mondays Group Bookings, Bus Tours, etc. by arrangement

Entertainment Big Screen TV’s, Snooker, 8 Ball, Darts, Indoor Bowls, Golf, 12 Gaming Machines

Visitors Most Welcome

Restaurant open 7 nights from 5:30pm Club open daily from 11:00am Sunday from 1:00pm 18 Gaming Machines, Courtesy Coach Charge back facilities to local motels.

If you are coming to Taumarunui we can arrange local tours, golf club bookings, Motel Bookings.

WHAKATANE RSA (Inc)

Entertainment Centre of Taumarunui

Open 7 Days ---- Bar Hours

A Friendly Welcome in Warm Whakatane

PORIRUA RSA (Inc) Waitara RSA North Taranaki 16 Queen St Waitara OPEN 7 DAYS RESTAURANT Lunch Tuesday to Sunday: 11.00am to 2.00pm Dinner Tuesday to Saturday: 5.00pm to 8.30pm BAR FACILITIES TAB – Gaming Machines – Pool & Darts – Large Screen TV’S – Sky Sport – Courtesy Vans available.

Come enjoy some time with our friendly members.

Restaurant Hours

TOKAANU-TURANGI & Districts Memorial RSA

Ph: 07 386 8717 PO Box 1 Katopu Place Turangi Email: trgirsa@hotmail.com Bar 7 days from 11am Restaurant Thur - Sat evenings Gaming Machines, Snooker, Pool, Darts, Indoor Bowls, Library, Big Screen Sky TV TURN 3RD RIGHT FROM ROUNDABOUT

Gaming Machines - Big Screens - 8 Ball - Snooker Darts - Indoor Bowls - Line Dancing - Karaoke Thursday evenings

Live Entertainment Friday Nights Close to motels in the heart of town

Richardson St Ph: 07 307 0343 E: admin@whakatanersa.co.nz

OPEN SEVEN DAYS * Sky Tv * TAB * Gaming Room * Pool * Darts * Indoor Bowls * EFTPOS * Wine Club * Kapa Haka BAR HOURS Mon 11am - 7pm. Tues 11am - 7pm. Wed 11am - 8pm. Thurs 11am - 11pm. Fri 11am - 12pm. Sat 10am - 12pm. Sun 10am - 9pm

RESTAURANT HOURS Thurs, Fri & Sat. Dinners 5.30 - 9.30pm

NEW, RETURNED & SERVICE MEMBERS MOST WELCOME

Paraparaumu Memorial RSA Inc

Lower Hutt Memorial www.lowerhuttrsa.org.nz

A Club Vista Partner 32 Marine Parade, Paraparaumu Beach Club open 7 days from 11am 04 298 4031 | www.clubvista.co.nz

Facilities: Amazing views · 24 Gaming machines · 3 Snooker Tables · 2 Pool Tables · TAB self service terminal · Entertainment Every weekend

Mon-Thurs 10am-10pm.Fri & Sat 10am till late. Sun 12noon-6pm Lunch and Dinner Tues-Sat Bar Snacks Available

5 -7 McKillop St, Tel: 04 237 7695 Fax 04 238 2343

CLUB night every FRIDAY 4.30 - 6.30pm in the ANZAC Lounge

Kensington Restaurant Open Upstairs Wednesday - Sunday from 5:30pm Bistro Open 7 Days A Week Lunch 11.30 - 2.00pm Dinner 5:00 - 9.00pm Live Band Friday and Saturday 8.00pm and Sundays 3.00pm 3 Bars, Garden Bar, Large TV Screens, Sky Sport, TAB, Internet, Library, Gaming Room, Conference Facilities.

47 Udy Street, Petone. Ph 568 5404 Members, Guests and Affiliated members welcome

BULLS SH1 Bulls Ph 06 322 0875

Hours Mon, Tues & Sun:11am -8pm Wed -Sat:11am -10pm When passing through Bulls call at our clubrooms, enjoy our hospitality and have a friendly chat.

Visitors Made Welcome

36

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Local RSAs REGULARS

RICHMOND/WAIMEA R.S.A. INC. P.0. Box 3034 Richmond 7050.

NELSON RSA (Inc) 168 Tahunanui Drive, Nelson. Phone 03 548 6815.

TARADALE 156 Gloucester Street

& DISTRICTS RSA INC

CHARTERED CLUB

35 Centennial Ave. Alexandra

Alexandra Clyde RSA

Ph/Fax 06 844 4808

Clubrooms Open Mon-Fri 8.30 am Meals Available 7 days - Lunch & Dinner When in Napier or Hastings visit us, we are only 8 minutes from either city. Motel accommodation next door with discounts available

CATERING A SPECIALTY Gaming Machines, Sky Tv, Snooker, Pool Darts,Bowls

All Visitors Assured of a Warm & Sincere Welcome

Visitors Welcome

MARLBOROUGH - NELSON WEST COAST CANTERBURY OTAGO - SOUTHLAND

ashburton rsa [inc]

12 Cox Street

Hours Mon - Tues: 11am-7pm. Wed Thurs Fri: 11am-10pm. Sat: 11am-12pm. Sun: 11am- 5pm

Tues+Wed Lunch noon. Bistro Thurs, Fri, Sat 5.30-8pm

All Indoor Sports available. Gaming Machines Live Music Every Alternative Saturday nights.

Wheelchair available

ashburton Where the North meets the South

PAPANUI RSA Ph: 03 352 9770 55 Bellvue Ave Access also from Papanui Rd & 1 Harewood Rd

ALL VISITORS WELCOME

PO Box 10 Ph: 03 448 8090 Fax: 03 448 8023 Bar Hours Mon-Sat: 11am-Late Sun: 4.30 9pm Bistro Hours Thurs: 6.30-8.30pm. Fri: 6-9pm Sun: 6-8pm Snack Bar open all hours

Sat-Sun 10.30 am

Open from 11.00 am Monday – Saturday; 11.30 am Sunday Tribute: 6.00 pm Wednesdays Lunch 11.00 am – 2.00 pm; Dinner 5.30 – 8.30 pm

motueka

memorial rsa (inc) 49 High Street

Ph. 03 528 9777

Open 7 Days from 4pm.

RSA, Clubs NZ and Motor Caravan members most welcome

RANGIORA RSA CLUB (Inc) 82 Victoria Street Ph: 03 313 7123

Gore District Memorial RSA Inc

12 Civic Ave Ph: 03 208 6218 Fax: 03 208 6220 Email: GoreRSA@xtra.co.nz Clubrooms Open 10.30 am 7 days a week Bar Hours Mon - Fri 10.30 am - 11 pm Sat 10.30 am - 1 am Sun 10.30 am - 9.30 pm Family Bar The Gore RSA Bistro Wed - Fri 12-2 pm.

Tues - Sun from 5.30 pm Private functions by arrangement * 5 F/size Snooker Tables * 18 Gaming Machines * Big Screen Sky TV * TAB Live entertainment each month. Tea coffee in our smoke free lounge. Off street parking for visitors.

Raffles: Thurs & Fri. Flag 500 Wed 7 pm during winter

Restaurant: Lunch Wed, Thurs, Fri. Dinner Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun. Courtesy Van Available Thurs, Fri, & Sat nights

A warm welcome is ex tend ed to all RSA members, families and friends

Bistro Meals

Lunch: 7 days 12 - 2 pm Dinner: 7 days 5pm onwards

Facilities

Eftpos, Sky TV, Snooker Billiards, Pool, Bowls, Cards, Darts, Gaming Machines, Library, Live Entertainment, Off Street Parking.

Power Point for Campervans

31 Union Street, Milton Ph: 03 417 8927

154 Esk Street, Invercargill Ph. 03 218 8693 Fax 03 218 3011 e-mail office@iwmc.co.nz Hours Mon - Wed. 11.00am - 10.00pm Thurs. 11.00am - 11.00pm Fri. 11.00am - 12 midnight Sat. 10.00am - 1.30am Sun. 12.00noon - 9.00pm Bottle Store Corinthian Restaurant open for lunch Mon - Fri 12noon - 1.30pm Dinner Thurs. - Sun. from 6.00pm Corinthian Convention Centre available for meetings, conferences or functions, large or small 24 Gaming machines - 5 snooker tables Sky TV 5 pool tables Raffles Mon. - Sat. Band on Sat. nights Off-street parking

Call and make some West Coast friends

NEW BRIGHTON RSA 21 Mafeking Street, New Brighton, Christchurch Ph: 03 388 9059 Open daily from 3.30pm Sunday 11.30am Meals available Thurs, Fri & Sat “All Welcome”

141 Palmerston Street Riverton 9822 Phone: (03) 2348737 Enjoy Southern Hospitality Tue-Sat 3-6pm & Fri 3-9pm

ANY CHANGES TO CLUB ADVERTS OR CLASSIFIED ADVERTS PLEASE CONTACT DAVE McKEE Ph: 03 983 5518 Fax: 03 983 5552 Email:davem@waterfordpress.co.nz

Marlborough RSA 42 Alfred Street Blenheim (In Clubs Marlborough Complex)

We extend a cordial invitation to all visiting members to visit our Clubrooms Open 7 Days from 9.00, Restaurant meals - 7 Days.

Gaming, Pool, Snooker, Sky TV.

Christchurch Memorial Returned and Services Association Inc.

Open daily from 5.00pm *All Welcome*

INVERCARGILL WORKINGMEN’S CLUB INC. Incorporating the INVERCARGILL R.S.A.

181 Tainui Street Phone 03 768 7307 Open Daily - Visitors Welcome

RIVERTON & DISTRICTS

Welcome

Milton Bruce RSA

GREYMOUTH RSA CLUB

Travel New Zealand

Visiting Christchurch Try our hospitality in the heart of Papanui. Adjacent to major civic amenities incl. shopping mall,motels & hotels Club Hours Mon -Tues: 11am -9pm. Wed-Thurs: 11am-10pm. Fri- Sat: 11am- 11pm. Sun: 11am- 8pm

Operating from Club Waimea Premises Lower Queen Street, Richmond. Phone 03 543 9179.

Open from 11.00am till late. Club Waimea facilities including Caravan Park facilities which are available to all R.S.A. Members.

Meals are available Wednesday - Sunday 11.30am Onwards

Tours SCOTTSDALE TOURS EXCLUSIVE SENIOR TOURS

VIETNAM TOURS. 20 Days ex Auck, Wgtn, Chch.

From $6895pp share twin. Special conditions apply.

Kiwi Vietnam Tours: 305 Kahuterawa Rd, RD 2 Palmerston North. Ph: 06 324 8444

info@kiwivietnamtours.co.nz |www.kiwivietnamtours.co.nz

Our 2016-17 tours include:

Facilities: Administration Office Support and Welfare Office Museum • Event/function Centre Trenches Restaurant and Bar (Public License) Poppy Club members’ bar Memorial Plaza and Remembrance Wall Operating Hours: Monday to Wednesday 08:00am to Midnight Thursday to Saturday 08:00am to 01:00am Sunday 08:00am to 11:00pm

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner available P: 03-3799724 E: office@christchurchrsa.org.nz www.christchurchrsa.org.nz | www.trenches.co.nz 74 Armagh Street, P.O. Box 354, Christchurch 8140,

Private function bookings are welcome

NEW ZEALAND: Hokianga for Christmas 23-27 Dec; Taranaki Festival of Lights 25-27 Jan; Hawke’s Bay Historic Homes 7-11 Feb; Kapiti Island 11-14 Feb; Top of the South 13-24 Feb; Winterless North 21-27 Mar; South of the South 23 Mar-7 Apr; AUSTRALIA: Touring Tasmania 9-20 Jan; Melbourne, Adelaide & Murray River 27 Apr-11 May; PACIFIC & BEYOND: Hawaii 14-24 May; New Caledonia 28 May-4 Jun; Tahiti & Moorea 11-19 Jun; Vietnam 24 Jun-9 Jul; Niue 29 Jul-5 Aug; Our tour costs are all inclusive apart from your own spending money and some lunches.

For a copy of our NEW 2017 colour brochure or to make a booking, phone 0800 66 44 14 or email: info@scottsdaletours.co.nz www.scottsdaletours.co.nz

Phone: 03 983 5500 Fax: 03 983 5552

waterfordpress.co.nz

37

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Travel Australia

Tours

B e a c hf ro n t A p a r t m e n t s • Heated swimming pool and spa • BBQ area • Close to local restaurants • Short walk to Jupiters Casino • 50 Metres to the famous Broadbeach Oasis Mall

Sandpiper Apartments is a 12 storey resort complex located on the beach. Every apartment faces the ocean and includes a private balcony. Spectacular views.

Book for 7-nights in a 1-Bedroom Ocean view apartment - $875 Book for 7-nights in a 2-Bedroom Ocean view apartment - $1,085 Please contact Sandpiper direct for bookings for the Commonwealth Games

www.sandpiperapartments.com.au | 155 Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach | 07 559 201 44

GOLD COAST - For all the fun of theme parks, whale watching, golf, sunny beaches, gourmet dining and stunning sunny ocean views come and stay at Boulevard North Holiday Apartments, Broadbeach

We would like to offer from our advertised rate to Guests mentioning this add when making a reservation.

Discount not available with any other promotions, reservations need to be made direct to the resort on +61 7 5538 7666

Email: stay@boulevardnorth.com.au | Website: www.boulevardnorth.com.au

ARGYLE O N

T H E

P A R K

• Special for May 2017 & November 2017 • Stay 7 nights and pay for 5 , 1,2 or 3 bedroom apartments.

• Please ring direct to check for availability - Ph: +61 07 5443 3022 Our holiday apartments are situated at Cotton Tree only 300 metres from one of the Sunshine Coast’s best beaches & surf clubs and opposite the beautiful Maroochy River great surfing, fishing, boating, swimming & only 5 minutes walk to the Maroochydore Bowls club, the Rsl & tennis clubs!

Our fully self-contained reverse cycle air conditioned apartments are spacious & tastefully decorated & provide comfortable and relaxing accommodation for you to enjoy, all the balconies face the water and park at cotton tree.

For Sale

Massage - you can now have a Sports, Remedial or Traditional Thai massage on the premises at Jai Dee Wellness Centre, cost is extra. Bookings are essential, so to book a Massage only please call Peter on +61 07 547 92400.

A perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun. We have free WIFI …

Email: info@argyleonthepark.com.au www.argyleonthepark.com.au

Tranquil Shores Holiday Apartments

RNZN DOG TAG - INGOT In Sterling Silver A Quality collectable Sterling Silver Dog Tag. Hand Made Collectors Item.

Limited numbers.

Comes with Necklace Chain in a Presentation Box.

Caloundra, Sunshine Coast 50m to Beach, Cafes & Restaurants. Large fully s/c 2 brm apartments. Heated pool, spa, BBQ, Foxtel TV. Free door-to-door pickup to RSL & Bowling Club.

Discounts for RSA members.

Contact your hosts: Donna & Rhys Livingstone Ph 0061 7 5491 8509

Fax 0061 7 5491 5363 Email info@tranquilshores.com Web www.tranquilshores.com

BEACHFRONT CALOUNDRA WINTER SPECIAL! • Stay 7 nights, pay for 6 • Stay 6 nights, pay for 5 • Stay 5 nights, pay for 4

$199 plus $10 Postage Handling. To Purchase: 1 Fill in the form below with cheque payment 2. TXT Steve Gaskell on 021382183 or EMAIL 3signets@windowslive.com for banking payment details.

I enclose cheque payable to S Gaskell Post coupon to : Steven Gaskell $209 for payment RNZN Silver Dog Tag. 214 Te Atatu Rd, Te Atatu South NAME Auckland ADDRESS Please alow 5 to 10 Business Day to complete Order. Postage via NZ Post Courier PH

STUNNING VIEWS

Escape the cold to the Sunshine Coast this Winter

SUBSCRIBE

NOW!

Contact RSA National Office to Subscribe Today RSA National Office | PO Box 27248, Marion Square, Wellington 6141 |

Phone. +617 5499 6688 For more information please visit www.ceruleanapts.com

email info@ceruleanapts.com

38

RSA REVIEW • AUTUMN 2017

Travel Australia

Medals MEDAL MOUNTING COURT STYLE

The Hyde Park Inn offers friendly, personalised service and spectacular views across Hyde Park. Central CBD location in walking distance to shops, theatres, Central Station, The Opera House, Darling Harbour and Kings Cross. Our comfortable rooms at the Hyde Park Inn include such features as self catering facilities, Complimentary light continental breakfast, Large family rooms and apartments, Free car parking, Guest laundry, complimentary Wi-Fi and much more!

SWING STYLE

Damage free professional medal mounting in either court style or swing style $20 per medal with new ribbon (full size & miniature). $8 return courier NZ wide. Replicas of all medals available at just $50 per medal inc mounting. NZ wide mail order service or by appointment.

Turnaround is usually 7 days.

Framing from just $150

A G Bairstow - NZ Medals Ltd PO Box 128 - 134, Remuera, Auckland 1541 Ph: 09 571 2074 E: aubreyb@clear.net.nz

www.nzmedals.com

English Tie & Medal Co *Replica medals and Miniatures supplied and mounted. *Full sized and Mini medal groups for other family members. . *Framed Medal Displays and Copy displays *Regimental Ties & Blazer pocket badges.

We do not sell or trade in original medals

P. 09 838 4828 F. 09 838 4850 W. www.medals.co.nz 6 Central Park Drive, Henderson, Auckland 0610

MEDAL MOUNTING Riviere on Golden Beach, Caloundra, Queensland

Rest in comfort .... relax in style

Email: info@riviere.com.au web: www.riviere.com.au

Phone: 0061 75492 3200

Spoil Yourself in a Luxury Beachfront Studio or a One or Two Bedroom Apartment • • • • • • •

Magnificent ocean views All units with sunny balconies facing the water Heated pool and spa Security Parking Opposite beautiful Alex Beach & Surf Club Centrally located between Mooloolaba & Maroochydore Close to cafes, restaurants & shops

CALL OR EMAIL NOW Phone: 00617 5479 5055

Check out our winter and spring specials

Email: info@alexseasideresort.com.au Website: www.alexseasideresort.com.au 146 Alexandra Parade, Alexandra Headland

SAILPORT

Registered with New Zealand Defence Force as an Approved Medal Mounter Quality work guaranteed Contact: Russell Barker, P O Box 346, Waikanae 5250 Phone: 04 293 1045 Email: rmbarker@xtra.co.nz Website: www.kiwimedalmounting.com MEDALS MOUNTED Court or Swing style.

Professional quality guaranteed work. Reasonable prices. Medals also framed for family history displays, museum quality work. I collect WW1 memorabilia, uniforms and equipment etc If you have any these items, I would like to purchase for my Private Collection.

Ph. Ian Hamilton 09 266 5783

M O O LO O L A B A A PA R T M E N T S

MEDAL MOUNTING, MILITARY HISTORY & GENEALOGY RESEARCH. Orders, decorations & medals (full size &

miniatures) court mounted for day, evening wear, and for family history displays. Medals mounted with respect for over 45 years by a long serving soldier. No modifications to medals or clasps. Contact Medal Mounting Wellington, H.E. Chamberlain, Ph: 04 293 3504. 470 Te Moana Rd. Waikanae. Email: clas.chamberlain@xtra.co.nz.

Overlooking Mooloolaba Wharf and Marina.

100 metres to Surf Club and safe patrolled Beach.

Great rates, modern 4 star luxury 1,2 & 3 bedrooms. Spacious, fully self contained & air conditioned.

Central to all the Sunshine Coast attractions.

Special - Stay 7 Pay 5 Feb, May - July, November

Telephone: 00617 5444 1844 email: reception@sailport.com.au.

Cnr River Esplanade & Hancock St, Mooloolaba, Queensland Australia.

w w w. s a i l p o r t . c o m . a u

Full Size and Miniature Orders, Decorations and Medals. Court Mounted or Swing Style.

If necessary medals cleaned and new ribbon supplied.

Duplicate groups made up to order.

|

07 5444 1844

ANY CHANGES TO CLUB ADVERTS OR CLASSIFIED ADVERTS PLEASE CONTACT DAVE McKEE Ph: 03 983 5518 Fax: 03 983 5552 Email:davem@waterfordpress.co.nz