News & Updates - 2021
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| 20 December |
 Grants
open for our veteran communityThe 2021-22 rounds of the Veteran and Community Grants and Supporting Younger Veterans Grants are now open for applications. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said the grants deliver valuable funding to local community organisations providing activities and services that support the wellbeing of veterans and their families. “Recent grant funding has gone to a wide variety of support programs including wellness weekends and care packages for Defence members, fishing and sporting activities and even off-road racing,” Minister Gee said. “I recently had the opportunity to catch some waves with veterans from previous grant recipient, the Veteran Surf Project at Gerroa in New South Wales, and saw firsthand the truly remarkable positive impact it’s having for local veterans. More..... |
| 04 December |
Member Ron May Our president Chris Thompson was in Wangaratta Monday and Tuesday last and contacted Carmen (Ron’s Daughter) on Tuesday morning, who said that Ron was now out of the induced coma and even though a bit hazy at times was progressing well so far. We will let you have a further update as info comes to hand. |
| 28 November |
Member Ron May is seriously ill The following email was received from Ron's brother Tony May: Just wanted to let you know that one of your ship mates, my brother Ron is very ill. On Tuesday morning he got sick really quickly and was taken by ambulance to Wangaratta Hospital where they discovered he had a perforated bowel. They operated on him that night and although the operation went well he has contracted Sepsis and is critically ill at this point. At the moment he is in an induced coma while they administer anti-biotics to fight the infection and we are praying he starts to make some improvement over the coming days and begins the long road back to recovery. I will keep you updated as things progress but if you and the boys could say a prayer for him it would be appreciated because he needs all the help he can get. Regards, Tony May. |
| 24 November |
Government
protecting veterans' interests following court decision In a significant win for veterans across the country, the Morrison-Joyce Government has taken action to ensure no veteran will be made worse off due to a Federal Court decision. The court’s decision in Commissioner of Taxation v. Douglas (the Douglas decision) had meant that invalidity pensions paid under the Military Superannuation and Benefits (MSB) and Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) schemes which commenced after 20 September 2007 would be taxed as superannuation lump sums rather than superannuation income stream benefits. The Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar said that without a swift response from the Australian Government, the Douglas decision would have had potentially harmful financial implications for some veterans. “The court’s decision had meant that invalidity pensions paid under certain superannuation schemes would be taxed differently,” Assistant Minister Sukkar said. More..... |
| 21 November
2021 HMAS Sydney II Unknown Sailor |
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| 19 November |
 Unknown
HMAS Sydney II sailor named after 80 yearsEighty years after the Australian warship HMAS Sydney (II) sunk off the West Australian coast, the only body recovered from the tragedy has now been identified. New DNA evidence has confirmed Able Seaman (AB) Thomas Welsby Clark from New Farm in Brisbane as the previously unidentified sailor. The Sydney sank on 19 November, 1941 following an intense battle with the disguised German merchant raider HSK Kormoran, about 120 nautical miles (222 km) west of Steep Point, WA. AB Clark is believed to be the only sailor to have made it to a life raft after the ship went down. Despite surviving the battle and the sinking, he tragically died at sea in the life raft. His remains were found near Rocky Point on Christmas Island nearly three months later. More..... |
| 12 November |
$4.35
million additional support for veteran groups across Australia 127 veteran groups around Australia will benefit from more than $4.35 million in additional funding through the Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) Program. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said the funding would help ex-service organisations (ESOs) continue to deliver the highest quality advocacy services and support. “This additional funding will help these groups provide local veterans even greater transition support, assistance with claims and entitlements, and access to services such as rehabilitation and wellbeing programs,” Minister Gee said. “This is an extra investment in the health and wellbeing of our veterans and their families, and will make a real difference to those on the ground, providing critical support and resources. More..... |
| 11 November |
A
call to honour the fallen on Remembrance Day ‘One sits and ponders sadly of those many pals who are “gone to that home from which no wanderer returns.” … The very flower of our manhood have paid the greatest price, not willingly for not one of them but longed to live, return home and forget, yes just forget the horrors of the past … Please God … the sacrifices have not been in vain.’ Lance Corporal Roger Morgan, Second Battalion, Australian Imperial Force, 11 November 1918 At 11am this Thursday, November 11, Australians will once again fall silent to commemorate Remembrance Day, in honour of all those Australians who have suffered and died defending our nation, our values and our freedoms. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said Remembrance Day remained one of the most significant days of the year for Australians. “We must never forget the courage, valour and sacrifice of all those men and women who have served this nation in war, conflicts and peacekeeping operations,” Minister Gee said. More..... |
| 09 November |
Funding
to help local communities remember those who served Commemorative services, restoration of memorials and the installation of a new honour roll are among the notable projects sharing in over $800,000 of grant funding provided by the Australian Government under the Saluting Their Service (STS) Commemorative Grants Program. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said communities across Australia are proud of their military history, our local veterans who have served our nation and their families who have supported them. “Our local communities recognise the importance of commemorating and honouring the contribution of our servicemen and women and all that they have done for our nation,” Minister Gee said. “This program helps to preserve Australia’s wartime heritage, providing valuable financial support, highlighting the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans. More..... |
| 30 October |
 VALE ex-LME
John Joseph Gorski R62754.It is with great sadness we inform you of the passing of member John Gorski on 29 October 2021. On behalf of the President, Committee and Members we extend our sincere condolences to his family. His name has been inscribed on our Memorial wall on the website alongside his HMAS Sydney III shipmates. LEST WE FORGET. |
| October
Update on HMAS Cerberus Redevelopment HMAS Cerberus Redevelopment Project Officer, Commander Cameron Eastman OAM RAN provides the latest video update on the progress of works currently underway. |
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| 16 October |
Veterans
claims system to be overhauled The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee has announced the appointment of independent consultants to overhaul the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ claims processing system. Consultants McKinsey & Company will work with families who have lost loved ones to suicide, to formulate recommendations that will overhaul the system to better serve our veterans. Minister Gee said the backlog of claims is unacceptably high which is delaying veterans and their families access to vital services and funding. “One of my top priorities is to improve the claims processing system and cut waiting times for veterans and their loved ones, and as such, I have directed that this rebuild takes place as a matter of urgency,” Minister Gee said. “This is not another review. “McKinsey will immediately examine how the Department can simplify the claims process, how it is currently processing claims, and identify how we can have a faster, more efficient and effective system for all veterans and their families. More..... |
| 16 October | DVA GENERAL NEWS UPDATE - download..... |
| 15 October |
Join
in and 'get moving' during Veterans' Health Week More than 720 events that focus on veteran wellbeing will kick off across Australia on 16 October as part of our country’s largest Veterans’ Health Week to date. The Australian Government has provided a record $540,000 funding for Veterans’ Health Week activities that focus on enhancing the overall health of our veterans and their families. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said this year’s theme, Get Moving, will promote physical health and encourage veterans and their families to stay active. More..... |
| 05 October |
 Cyber
Security Awareness Month 2021Australians are urged to take simple steps to better protect themselves from common online threats and cybercrime during Cyber Security Awareness Month this month. The 2021 theme is: “Do your Part. #BeCyberSmart.” Assistant Minister for Defence, the Hon Andrew Hastie MP, said the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) continues to make it easier for Australians to strengthen their cyber defences through new personal security guides available on cyber.gov.au. More..... |
| 29 September |
Annual
AIHW report highlights need for veterans' support The Australian Government has today received a report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) into the rate of suicide among serving and former-serving members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The Report outlines that of the almost 373,500 men and women who have served over the past 36 years, tragically 1,273 have taken their own lives in the last two decades. This report builds on previous editions by expanding the cohort analysed from those with at least one day of ADF service since 2001 to those with at least one day of service since 1985. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said the report highlights the long term nature of the issue of veteran suicide and re-affirms the need for Australia to give our veterans and their families the best support possible. More..... |
| 23 September |
Media
statement — Shrine of Remembrance sanctity restored I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to all those who have come together to restore the sanctity of Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance following its appalling use as a protest site yesterday. We have witnessed our veterans and community members volunteering their time to remove discarded glass, bottles and other debris abandoned during the protest. I would like to recognise and congratulate their community spirit in undertaking this clean up. They shouldn’t have had to do it. Further, I extend a special thank you to all our veterans who have taken the time to visit the Shrine and assist with this important work. I know for many veterans this would have been heartbreaking and caused enormous distress. Yesterday’s events were shameful and denigrated our service men and women, veterans and their families. I hope none of us will ever see this sort of disrespect again. All of our memorials should be above any form of protest as they stand timelessly to remind all Australians of those who have served and sacrificed for our nation. The Shrine of Remembrance is a solemn place of reflection and commemoration and is recognised as such around Australia and the world. All those who have given their time to restore the Shrine have done Victoria and Australia proud. |
| 22 September |
Media
statement — Shrine of Remembrance Today’s protest at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance was disgraceful and those who participated in it are to be condemned in the strongest possible terms. They should be ashamed of themselves. The Shrine of Remembrance is one of our country’s most significant memorials and holy places. That the Shrine is sacred was made clear to all Australians by Sir John Monash, who ensured that the inscription on the west wall declares that it is “HOLY GROUND”. It is a place of solemnity and quiet reflection. To use it as a protest site violates this sanctity and denigrates and disrespects the memory of those who have served and sacrificed so much for our nation. There can be no justification for this outrage. Those who organised and attended the protest at the Shrine of Remembrance should acknowledge the hurt that their actions have caused and apologise to all Australians. I hope we never live to see a repeat of it. |
| 15 September |
ACSC
annual cyber threat report released The Assistant Minister for Defence released the second ACSC Annual Cyber Threat Report: July 2020 to June 2021 in Perth. The ACSC Annual Cyber Threat Report details the key cyber threats Australians face, and provides critical advice on how to protect yourself online, jointly compiled by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission. As Australians in record numbers worked remotely in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the ACSC received over 67,500 cybercrime reports over the last financial year - or one every eight minutes. This is an increase of nearly 13 per cent from the previous year. More..... |
| 14 September |
Minister
Gee’s address on Australian Peacekeeper Day Australia will never forget our peacekeepers and peacemakers or the sixteen Australians who have lost their lives on peacekeeping operations. Australia owes them all a great debt of gratitude. As we know, today is the 74th anniversary of Australia’s first deployment on a peacekeeping operation. Our history of peacekeeping is a very proud one. Australians were the world’s very first peacekeepers to be deployed into the field, and that was part of a mission to the Netherlands East Indies in 1947, and since that time, our military personnel, civilians and police officers have deployed to more than 60 countries on 70 operations. More..... |
| 02 September |
Enrolments
Open for the 2022 ADF Cyber Gap Program Enrolments are now open for the 2022 Australian Defence Force (ADF) Cyber Gap Program, which will support students studying a cyber-qualification. Assistant Minister for Defence, the Hon Andrew Hastie MP, said the ADF Cyber Gap Program, run in partnership with the Digital Transformation Agency, would continue to boost Australia’s sovereign cyber workforce capability. “Cyber is the new battleground, and the important mission our service men and women undertake in cyberspace will be vital to keeping Australians safe and secure.” Assistant Minister Hastie said. More..... |
| 31 August |
Honouring
our veterans who served in Malaya and Borneo Today is Malaya and Borneo Veterans’ Day, when we pause to recognise and remember the 10,500 Australians who served in the Malayan Emergency and the Indonesian Confrontation. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said he encourages Australians to acknowledge the service and dedication of those who fought in these post-Second World War conflicts in the Malaya and Borneo regions. More..... |
| 27 August |
Murderous
atrocity demonstrates why our ADF were fighting The events in Kabul are a murderous atrocity and if anyone was ever in any doubt about the righteousness of the Australian mission in Afghanistan this is a brutal reminder of the terrorists and criminals we were fighting against and the threats they posed to our national security and security of the world. I would like to acknowledge the men and the women of the Australian Defence Force, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Home Affairs and our security agencies that have done so much to evacuate Australians and visa holders from Kabul. Over 4100 people have been evacuated, which is an extraordinary effort. Today we grieve with the people of the United States and Afghanistan and condemn the callous attacks on innocent civilians and American service personnel who were there solely to guard and protect the international evacuation effort. More..... |
| 23 August |
Media
Statement — Young veterans show support for our troops “Every single one of us that went, knows the difference we made on the ground when we were over there.” These are the words of one contemporary veteran who I met with following the unfolding events in Afghanistan. It’s been a difficult time for many in our veteran community however it is important to hear the voices of those who were there, on the ground, sharing their stories of the positive change they brought to Afghanistan. Last week I held a roundtable with our younger veterans, including many who served in Afghanistan, to hear and receive updates on the impact the events there are having on the mental health of our veteran community. More..... |
| 22 August Saving MG99 | A refugee story with heart This is the story of the "luckiest refugees" — a boatload of people fleeing Vietnam in hopes of a better life. With their boat damaged irreparably in a storm, the group was preparing to die when the Australian Navy's HMAS Melbourne arrived unexpectedly. Navy photographers captured the night on camera, creating an enduring record as 99 people were lifted to safety. Forty years on, the survivors meet their saviours during an emotional reunion to share how the rescue changed all their lives for the better. |
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| 18 Aug |
Vietnam
veterans remembered Wednesday the 18th August is Vietnam Veterans’ Day - an opportunity for our country to pause and remember the service and sacrifice of the Australians during the Vietnam War, and to acknowledge the 55th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said the Vietnam War was the longest conflict Australians were involved in during the 20th Century. “Over 60,000 Australians served in the Vietnam War, including over 15,000 National Servicemen. Tragically 521 Australians lost their lives and some 3,000 were wounded,” Minister Gee said. More..... |
| 16 Aug |
Support
available for Australians who served in Afghanistan This is a distressing time for many of our Defence personnel and veterans who served our nation in Afghanistan with courage, dignity and honour, and made such a significant contribution to the allied military effort. We must never forget the 41 Australians who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Australia owes a great debt of gratitude to all our veterans who served with distinction and their families who supported them. More..... |
| 12 Aug |
Significant
reforms to Australia's military discipline system Minster for Defence Personnel and Veterans’ Affairs Andrew Gee has today announced significant amendments to the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 which will modernise and streamline disciplinary matters in the Australian Defence Force. “Our military justice system provides the Australian Defence Force with a unique Australian legal framework that is able to be applied on operations anywhere in the world,” Minister Gee said. More..... |
| 11 Aug |
New
data on veterans released day after census 373,500 Australians have served in the Australian Defence Force over the past 35 years, of which 59,000 are currently serving, according to new statistics released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said the information contained in the report, along with the Census data collected last night, is helping to build a bigger picture of veterans in our community. More..... |
| 11 Aug |
Recognising
the Australians who served in the Indonesian Confrontation On 11 August 1966, a peace treaty was signed between the Indonesian and Malaysian governments, bringing to an end the Indonesian-Malaysian Confrontation. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said the Confrontation was an undeclared war that began in 1962 involving New Zealand, Britain, and troops from Australia arriving in Borneo from March 1965. “This year marks 55 years since the end of the Confrontation,” Minister Gee said. More..... |
| 10 Aug |
Additional
mental health support for white card holders Ten thousand veterans with complex mental health needs will have access to a network of qualified GPs nationwide, following the expansion of support provided by the Australian Government. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Andrew Gee today announced the Coordinated Veterans’ Care (CVC) Program has been expanded to provide additional support for DVA White Card holders with an accepted mental health condition. More..... |
| 05 Aug |
An
Unknown Australian Soldier of the Great War Identified A previously unknown Australian First World War soldier buried in an unnamed grave in France has been identified. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said the soldier was identified as 10778 Albert Nicholson, a Driver in the 14th Field Artillery Brigade of the Australian Imperial Force. “Albert, originally from Broken Hill, New South Wales, enlisted in Adelaide on 17 September 1915 and left Australia for overseas service on 5 January 1916. He was Killed in Action at Villers-Bretonneux on 3 August 1918.” More..... |
| 30 Jul |
 SAVE
HMAS OTAMAI am the media consultant for the Victorian Maritime Center, which has been, for 20 years, trying to get ex HMAS Otama ashore. At this point in time the VMC is trying to save the submarine from being scrapped. (see attached document) I am writing to you to inform you of a petition the VMC has started to get the matter of saving this piece of history to parliament. I ask, would it be possible for to forward this email to your members in the hope that they may sign the petition. https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/index.php?option=com_rsform&view=rsform&formId=74&Itemid=1054&petition_id=373 For those of your members that may not be totally familiar with the plight of the VMC, over a twenty your period, I have supplied the below link to a 20 minute video which is made basically from videos that document the history of the project from day one to near the present time. If you have any questions regarding the dire situation Otama is in please email me or follow the drama on the VMC face book page. https://www.facebook.com/victorianmaritimecentre/?notif_id=1626687456553238¬if_t=page_fan&ref=notif Any assistance your members can give would be very much appreciated in the fight to “Save Our Sub” Yours Faithfully Wayne Gibbs Media Consultant Victorian Maritime Center |
| 30 Jul |
 Sydney
returns homeHMAS Sydney today returned to Garden Island, Sydney, following a four-and-a-half month deployment to the United States and Canada in which she qualified for operational duty. While away, the crew of Navy’s third and final Hobart-class destroyer conducted combat system sea qualification trials, including weapons firings off the US west coast and integrated sonar suite trials, sailing from Nanoose Bay, Canada. Sydney passed the tests and now joins her sister ships Hobart and Brisbane as being ready for operational deployment. More..... |
| 20 Jul |
Act now to defend against vicious cybercriminals Cybercriminals are targeting Australians at an unprecedented level to steal sensitive information and money, including through business email compromise and ransomware attacks. Launching the next stage of the ‘Act Now Stay Secure’ cyber security campaign, Assistant Minister for Defence, the Hon Andrew Hastie MP, said the consequences of cybercrime can be catastrophic for businesses, families, and individuals. More..... |
| 02 Jul |
Indexation of rates 1 July 2021 From 1 July 2021, the Income Free Areas and Assets Value Limits used to calculate rates of income support pensions under the Veterans’ Entitlement Act 1986 (VEA) will rise. The amount of income (per fortnight) an income support pensioner may receive before their pension is reduced under the income test: Details..... |
| 02 Jul |
Inquiry into unit recognition for ADF service in Somalia Call for submissions The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal has been directed to inquire into and report on recognition for Australian Defence Force units that served in Somalia between 1992 and 1995. In particular, the Tribunal is to examine relevant evidence and consider whether it is appropriate that any Australian units that served in Somalia between 1992 and 1995 be awarded a Meritorious Unit Citation, or another form of further recognition for service. In doing so, the Tribunal is to have regard to the eligibility criteria for the Meritorious Unit Citation, as set out in the Unit Citations Regulations, or other relevant Regulations. The Tribunal is to report, in writing, to the Minister for Defence Personnel on the findings and recommendations that arise from the inquiry. Submissions to the Tribunal close on 31 August 2021, and can be lodged online through the Tribunal’s website. More information about making a submission can be found at Defence Honours..... |
| 28 Jun |
 Review
of Unit Recognition for Somalia ServiceThe independent Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal will re-examine the issue of unit recognition for the service of our Australian Defence Force (ADF) in Somalia. Minister for Veterans Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester announced today that he had requested the Tribunal reassess the issue in response to representations from the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment Association. More..... |
| 19 Jun |
 Our member John DeCruz Douglas has been awarded the OAM in the 2021 Queen's Birthday Honours list. Congratulations John - Bravo Zulu. |
| 17 Jun |
Veterans’
Health Week 2021 — funding now available VETERANS and their families are being encouraged to get moving and increase their physical activity, with $200,000 in funding available nationally to assist community groups and ex-service organisations with planning and hosting Veterans’ Health Week events in October 2021. This year’s theme for Veterans’ Health Week will be ‘Get moving’ and the veteran community is encouraged to plan early for their events this year. More..... |
| 22 May |
Preparations
for Royal Commission move to next phase Preparation for the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has moved into the next phase. Over the past month I have had discussions with hundreds of veterans, serving members and families across the nation. The feedback has been extremely positive and constructive and while opinions have been incredibly diverse, we all have one common goal – to prevent suicide within the Defence and veteran communities. More..... |
| 19 May HMAS Cerberus - MAY 2021 (Lendlease) The Base Redevelopment Programs continues to change the landscape that is HMAS Cerberus. This video clip highlights several new buildings being constructed or refurbished. |
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| 01 May 2021 |
Grants
help Defence families to thrive AUSTRALIAN Defence Force (ADF) families will benefit from more than $1.4 million in grants provided to organisations across the nation as part of the Family Support Funding Program. Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the program provided vital funding that allowed community organisations to deliver support and services of value to Defence families and strengthen relationships with the Defence community. More..... |
| 30 Apr 2021 |
Young
Endeavour applications now open APPLICATIONS are now open for young Australians to join Sail Training Ship (STS) Young Endeavour for voyages between May and December 2021. STS Young Endeavour will visit New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria during the COVID-19 safe voyage program, allowing more young Australians the opportunity to set sail on an adventure of a lifetime. More..... |
| 25 Apr 2021 |
Unknown
Australian solider of the Great War identified ON Anzac Day, the final resting place of a previously missing First World War soldier has been identified in France. Minister for Defence Personnel and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester today announced that the final resting place of Private Leslie Styles, 40th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force had been confirmed. “Private Leslie Styles, from Ringarooma, Tasmania, enlisted on 4 March 1916 and during the Battle of Amiens on 12 August 1918 was killed in action shortly after he and three other soldiers successfully took two German machine gun posts,” Mr Chester said. More..... |
| 22 Apr 2021 |
Tens
of thousands of Defence personnel to support Anzac Day THIS Anzac Day, tens of thousands of Australian Defence Force personnel will be providing ceremonial support to regional towns, schools, veteran and community groups, local memorials and aged care facilities. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the ability to gather in person to honour our service men and women was a welcome return. More..... |
| 19 Apr 2021 |
Establishment
of a Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran suicide The death of any Australian Defence Force member or veteran is one death too many and a tragedy that is deeply felt by all Australians. Tragically, and heartbreakingly, this includes death by suicide. Recognising this, the Government will take the step of recommending to the Governor‑General the establishment of a Royal Commission into Defence and Veterans Suicide, following a period of consultation on draft Terms of Reference, with the relevant community and state and territory governments. More..... |
| 09 Apr 2021 |
Commemorating
Anzac Day 2021 FOR what they have done this we will do — the simple reason all Australians must ensure the legacy of commemoration continues this Anzac Day. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said Anzac Day was the most sacred day of commemoration on the Australian calendar and a time for reflection to remember the service and sacrifice of all Australian service personnel who have served the nation for over a century. More..... |
| 28 Mar 2021 |
VALE ex-LSMUSN Kim Michael RUSHWORTH, R64590. It is with great sadness we inform you of the passing of member Kim Rushworth on 27 March 2021. On behalf of the President, Committee and Members we extend our sincere condolences to his family. His name has been inscribed on our Memorial wall on the website alongside his HMAS Sydney III shipmates. LEST WE FORGET. |
| 27 Mar 2021 |
Support
for connecting ex-service organisations EX-SERVICE organisations (ESOs) across Australia are invited to apply for a share of up to $145,000 in funding to continue their vital support role to our veteran community, as part of the annual Grants-In-Aid program. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said applications were now open for eligible national ESOs to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to help connect with their local branches. More..... |
| 20 Mar 2021 |
Veterans'
pensions set to increase VETERANS, their partners, war widows and widowers will benefit from an increase to their pensions in line with the biannual indexation process coming into effect today. Pensions are indexed twice a year in March and September. Those who need additional support should contact the Department of Veterans’ Affairs who can provide a range of financial supports and allowances for those experiencing hardship. More..... |
| 18 Mar 2021 |
Survival At Sea Trainer at HMAS Cerberus On 17Mar21, the brand new Survival At Sea Training facility saw acceptance trials conducted as part of the facility delivery to Navy. This short video shows the trainer put through its paces. |
| 15 Mar 2021 |
Survival At Sea Trainer at HMAS Cerberus Described as the 'jewel in the (redevelopment) crown, the Survival At Sea Trainer is a state of the art facility that will simulate at sea conditions where recruits will learn survival at sea techniques. The facility is just about completed and will be handed over to Navy and HMAS Cerberus with training commencing in the very near future. The simulator trainer consists of wind fans capable of generating up to 60km/h winds, rain machines, (both horizontal and vertical), a wave generator to simulate varying sea states, a helicopter winching simulator and a full size Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boat (RHIB) that can be mechanically capsized. Recruits will also be trained in abandon ship techniques using a 5mtr high platform, the same as an Anzac Class Frigate ships side and also the 10mtr high Marine Evacuation System chutes that are installed onboard our LHD's HMAS Adelaide and Canberra. |
| 07 Mar 2021 |
 $50m
Vietnam Vets museum plans unveiledPlans for a new $50 million National Vietnam Veterans Museum will go to Bass Coast Shire this month, with an ambitious target to start construction later this year. General manager Phil Dressing last week confirmed a planning permit was being sought for a museum, to be built on a 100-acre site opposite the current museum, with access from the Cape Woolamai roundabout. More..... |
| 06 Mar 2021 |
MELBOURNE ANZAC DAY MARCH 2021 UPDATE: Members, After lobbying by ANZAC House for an altered 2021 ANZAC March the State Government has agreed to the following under a COVID-19 Plan. Assembly point for all Associations: Opposite the Art centre. This year Veterans will NOT march through the City Centre. Step off: 0930 All WWII Veterans wishing to participate, will be picked up at their homes and offered to be transported to the VIP section to watch the march and view the service after the marchers have moved through. Vehicles: Will not will be used in the March. Only the Governor, plus one RAAF Veteran will lay a wreath. Post the Governor’s speech the WWII Veterans will be transported to their homes, but can be taken to their Association tree for wreath laying. Participants: Australian & New Zealand Veterans only. No Allies, Dependants or Children will be permitted to march. Air Force will have the honour to lead this year’s march in recognition of the RAAF Centenary year, followed by Navy. Banners will me massed by Service, veterans will march behind their service Massed Banners, there will be no marching behind individual banners, nor leaders. All Navy Veterans will march together, with the required distancing within the ranks. All Veterans who wish to march are to register and will be emailed or posted a pass. Should you not register and do not have a pass then the police manning the road Barriers will not let you through (no pass, no march). Each Association will take care of informing their own members to register. All members who wish to take part in the march, please email or ring with your details to your Secretary or the designated person. Name, email & Postal address, phone/Mobile number ASAP. Therefore, please do so no later than Tuesday 9 March 2021. When registering members, each Association who are in possession of their own banners, are to request the Banner be included in the Massed Banners when registering your members, and inform him you will transport them to the Navy Massed Banners point. Please inform the Chief Marshall only If you are able, to supply Banner Bearers available if needed. Your banners if you wish can be dropped off at RSL House and collected immediately after the march. If you do not wish to drop them off, please inform the Chief Marshall At the end of the March, you must clear the area ASAP. The public are permitted to watch from behind the Barriers. This year our Reunion will not be held at the Maori Chief but at the St Kilda RSL, 88 Acland St, St Kilda. No buses are available so make your own way. Please do not hesitate to contact me, should you need clarification of any point. Regards David Speed Dwyer Senior Navy March Marshall 2021 Melbourne Anzac Day March Email: Mob: 0423675146 Tel: 9720 8183 |
| 05 Mar 2021 |
Grants
open for ex-service organisations EX-SERVICE organisations (ESOs) who help veterans and their families are invited to apply for the 2021 Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program which is now open. ESOs across the country deliver extensive services to veterans and their families including leisure activities, transition support, assisting with claims, rehabilitation and wellbeing programs and hosting many commemorative events and activities. More..... |
| 26 Feb 2021 |
Statement
— Anzac Day spirit to continue in 2021 ANZAC Day is the most sacred day of commemoration on the Australian calendar. It provides all Australians with the opportunity to remember and reflect on the service and sacrifice of our past and current service personnel as well as honour the more than 102,000 Australians who have given their lives in service of our nation. On the health advice of Australian authorities due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19, Anzac Day services overseas will not go ahead as normal in 2021. This includes the Australian and New Zealandled Anzac Day services in Turkey and the Australian services in France. The day will still be recognised in these countries however, with locally-based officials holding private commemorations in honour of all those who have served our country in uniform, and those who died in service. More..... |
| 22 Feb 2021 |
Remembering
the First Gulf War 30 years on Australia has a proud military history that spans more than a century and on 28 February we will commemorate 30 years since the official end of one of our more recent conflicts, the First Gulf War. Following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, the international community responded quickly, with the United Nation’s Security Council imposing sanctions on Iraq, giving it until 15 January 1991 to withdraw from Kuwait. More..... |
| 13 Feb 2021 |
Remembering
our 'Nashos' TOMMOROW, on National Servicemen’s Day, we honour those who have served our nation through compulsory military service, recognising their contribution to the nation’s defence. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said it was important to remember the significance of their service, stepping up to meet the nation’s needs. More..... |
| 13 Feb 2021 |
Grants
support commemorating our military history APPLICATIONS for the 2021–22 Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program are now open and organisations are encouraged to apply for funding to support their commemorative projects and activities. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the program, now in its 25th year had supported thousands of projects nationally, but there were more projects across the nation still to be done. More..... |
| 06 Feb 2021 |
New Member - LCDR Ron Sheargold Ron Sheargold is our newest member. Ron is a Vietnam and FESR veteran serving on the Derwent as an ME. He also served on the Sydney. Welcome aboard Ron. |
| 05 Feb 2021 |
New Shrine Of Remembrance Chair Appointed The Andrews Labor Government has welcomed the appointment of naval veteran Stephen Bowater as incoming Chairperson of the Shrine of Remembrance Trustees. A veteran of more than 40 years’ service, Captain Bowater was most recently the Executive Director of the Royal Australian Navy’s Commander Shore Force and takes over from Air Vice-Marshal Chris Spence who is stepping down after a nine-year term. More..... |
| 05 Feb 2021 |
 Official Opening - Cockatoo Rise War Veterans Retreat26 High Steet Macarthur, Victoria (Old Pub) Saturday 06 March 2021 Opened by Senator Jacqui Lambie Good morning, Cockatoo Rise War Veterans Retreat opening has attracted a lot of interest, 150 plus attending at present has demonstrated your support for such a sanctuary. Please note we don't have credit card facilities, so all sales will be cash. For those coming I look forward very much to sharing this special day with you. Kind Regards Greg Carter Mobile: 0409 418 332 email: website: https://cockatooriseretreat.com.au/  |
| 04 Feb 2021 |
ANZAC DAY 2021 - MELBOURNE From: David Speed Dwyer OAM Senior Navy Marshal Melbourne ANZAC Day March Ladies & Gents, I attended a meeting of the ANZAC Day Commemorative Committee at ANZAC House Melbourne today, Thursday 4/02/2021. This year 2021, there will not be a Gunfire Breakfast, nor an ANZAC Day March in Melbourne as we know it. Serving ADF Veterans will Parade March from a little way up Birdwood Ave and then into the Shrine Of Remembrance (SOR) grounds. The RAAF will lead, as this is their Centenary year. No non-serving Veterans will march, family members nor Foreign Veterans. Some Banners will be located on a very small piece of the SOR Grounds. Banners and Bearers will be organised by the RSL. The service will be live streamed, as will the Governor's address. Only the Governor and one Veteran will lay wreaths. This year only 1500 Victorians will be permitted to attend and the 1500 will be chosen via Ballot, (SOR will arrange this) and an area will be roped off for the lucky ones. The after Parade Service will be conducted in the Sanctuary (again live streamed). The ANZAC Church service during Evensong at St Pauls will go ahead on Sunday 18 April. Numbers may be limited to 100, stand by, as this may change without a lot of notice. |
| 01 Feb 2021 |
Boost
in support for veteran mental health Mental health providers, social workers and community nursing providers who provide vital services to our veteran community are set to receive a boost in funding from the Australian Government with an increase in fees from today. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the Government committed $94.3 million in the Budget to increase fees paid to mental health, social work and community nursing providers, and ensure continued high quality care for our veterans and their families. More..... |
| 21 Jan 2021 |
Recognition
for ADF members and families THE Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal will consider recognition for members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) who are injured, wounded or killed in or as a result of their service, and their families. Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester said following preliminary consultation and advice from the Council of Women and Families United by Defence Service, it was now a matter for the Tribunal to examine. More..... |
| 14 Jan 2021 |
More
than $1 million to honour Australia’s military history Seventy-nine community groups and organisations from across the country will receive funding under the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program for projects that help preserve Australia’s military history. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said more than $1 million would be provided to assist the successful applicants in completing projects and activities that commemorate our service personnel. More..... |
| 01 Jan 2021 |
 Veterans
Retreat OpeningTelephone or email to book for catering purposes if you wish to attend the opening. Mobile: 0409 418 332 email: cockatoorise@wideband.net.au |
| 24 Dec 2020 |
VALE ex-POSTD Michael William GLYNN, R62752 It is with great sadness we inform you of the passing of member Michael 'Mick' Glynn on 16 December 2020. Mick was Vice President of the Sydney Association (NSW) at the time of his passing. On behalf of the President, Committee and Members we extend our sincere condolences to his sister Pauline and family. His name has been inscribed on our Memorial wall on the website alongside his HMAS Sydney III shipmates. Our ex-President Marty Grogan, who was best friends with Mick, was due to give the Eulogy at his funeral, but, unfortunately Victoria was about to close it's borders to NSW, so Marty had to rush back here to Victoria and was unable to attend. Read the eulogy here..... |
| 06 Dec 2020 |
VALE ex-WOSBA David Winston JONES, R56745. It is with great sadness we inform you of the passing of member David 'Doc' Jones on 04 December 2020. On behalf of the President, Committee and Members we extend our sincere condolences to his wife Dale and family. His name has been inscribed on our Memorial wall on the website alongside his HMAS Sydney III shipmates. |
| 05 Dec 2020 |
Today was a big day for HMAS Sydney - artist Mr Randall Wilson presented three original paintings of HMAS Sydney to the Commanding Officer and crew to be proudly displayed throughout the ship. |
| 04 Dec 2020 |
First
psychiatric assistance dog provided in South Australia A South Australian veteran is the first to receive an assistance dog from one of two new providers under the Australian Government’s Psychiatric Assistance Dog Program. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said Xena, trained by the Royal Society for the Blind (RSB) in South Australia, has now been handed over to a veteran to support them with managing their post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). More..... |
| 02 Dec 2020 |
Help
is available, please reach out DEFENCE personnel, veterans and their families impacted by the ongoing coverage of the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force’s Afghanistan Inquiry are being encouraged to reach out for support. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the vast majority of men and women who serve in our Defence forces transition well to successful careers, but some require additional assistance. More..... |
Upcoming Events
in 2021
(Full details will be on our Calendar
when they become available)
-
Sunday 28 March - 10:30
Committee meeting via Zoom -
Sunday 25 April
ANZAC Day reunion, St Kilda RSL, Ackland St, opposite Luna Park after the march -
Sunday 23 May - 10:30
Committee meeting -
Sunday 30 May - 11:00 for 11:30
Commemorative Service (Vietnamese veterans invited), luncheon and the big raffle at the club -
Sunday27 June - 10:30
Committee meeting -
Saturday 31 July - 11:00 FOR 11:30
AGM & luncheon at the club -
Sunday 24 October - 10:30
Committee meeting -
Tuesday 02 November - 10:00
Melbourne Cup function -
Friday 19 November - 1145
Sydney II commemorative service at the Shrine -
Sunday 28 November - 1100
Children's Christmas party
CANCELLED -
Sunday 05 December - 1100
Annual General Meeting
NOTE:
Additional
events may be added from time to time as they arise.
Request for Committal of Ashes to the
Sea.
Download form.....
Videos of Interest
Vietnam Veterans'
Commemorative Walk
The
Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk in High St.,
Seymour, commemorates the
60,000+ service personnel and the 11 tracker dogs who served during the
14 years of the Vietnam War. The Walk incorporates a meandering red
earth path set in native trees and grasses that resemble rubber trees
and rice paddies. These two plants being synonymous to Vietnam. Along
the length of the Walk are walls with the names of all the Australian
personnel who served in Vietnam. Contemplation areas are incorporated
into the Walk as a place for people to sit and reflect on the sacrifices
of those that went before us serving our country. Click image to view
the video.
Music: "I Am Australian" is performed by the Royal Australian Navy band.
Under A Rising Sun
In
2013, I had the pleasure of reading a poem, "Under A Rising Sun", written by one of our members,
Laura Benney, aged 13, at the Seaford RSL Anzac Day service.
Laura's great great grandfather, paid the ultimate
sacrifice when he was killed on the Western Front in 1916. It is in
tribute to him that she penned these words.
Click here or
the image to view the video.
War Service
Check your ship's eligibility for war service.....