FROM WARFARE TO WELFARE - vvfact.org.au Tuesday the 18th August, Vietnam Veterans and their families paid tribute to those who served, suffered and died in and as a result of the Vietnam

1 Veterans Support Centre Belconnen

FROM WARFARE TO WELFARE Issue No. 64 September 2015

The Veterans Support Centre Belconnen actively pursues the

welfare of all Defence Force members and their families.

Our services are available to both serving and former

members of the Australian Defence Force and certain

Government employees.


Index 1. Title Page

2. Index

3. Contacts Page

4. Presidents Report

5. Around the Centre

6. Vietnam Veterans Remembrance Day



9. Veterans Funny Page

10. Soldier On Family Fun Day

11. Soldier On Family Fun Day continued….

12. Coach Tour to Cooma Cottage/Yass

13. Services and Activities offered/Coach Tours/Medal Mounting

14. Garden of Peace 10th Anniversary by Terry Lawler

15. If you are ever in Merimbula/Selkirk Antiques & Restorations services

16. Donations and Care Inc.

17. Veterans Health Week/Christmas Party 2015/50th Anniversary Second Era National Service Scheme

18. Groups at the Centre

19. Poem by Banjo Patterson

20. Medals Awarded 47 years on, An article from the Air Force newspaper

21. Upcoming Events/Food Van dates/Weekly activities

22. On the road for Winter - Ian and Barbara Schafferius

23. On the road for Winter continued…..

24. Fundraising for The Centre/Christmas closure/Vets at Villagio

25. Patient Choices

26. Planning Ahead and Power of Attorney

27. Lost/Unclaimed Money

28. Lets talk about wills –Fergus Thomson/Article Correction

29. AGM Nominations

30. Advertising Rates/Are you Financial/Indemnity Clause

31. Membership Form

32. Sponsors


Veterans Support Centre Belconnen

Vietnam Veterans & Veterans Federation of Australia (VV&VFACT)

9 Burkitt Street PAGE ACT 2614 Phone (02) 62551599 Fax (02) 62551577

Email [email protected] Website www.vvfact.org.au

Office Hours 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday

President: Ian Thompson Committee: Brian Agnew

Senior Vice President: Daniel Burton Robert F. Jones

Vice President: Gerard Mapstone John Kearns

Treasurer: Peter Olsen Geoff Bolwell

Assistant Treasurer: Robert West John Sainsbury

Secretary: Terry Lawler John Padovan

Public Officer: Len Little Trevor Goodhew

Executive Support Officer: Karen Toscan David Tonacia

Office Manager: Leannda Mackie

Administrative Assistant: Taryn Duggan

General Counsel: Fergus Thomson

Activity Contacts

OHS: Gerard Mapstone Membership: Robert F. Jones

Newsletter Design: Taryn Duggan Entertainment: Karen Toscan

Newsletter Editors: Roley Camons/Len Little Food Van: John Kearns

Hospial Visits: Terry Duffy/Dennis Hebden Danny Burton

Grants: Trevor Goodhew/Don Richards New Building: Terry Lawler

PUTP (PTSD Support): David Tonacia

The Committee can not do everything required to keep the services the Centre offers fully operational without the efforts of non-committee members. This assistance is greatly appreciated and if you would like to assist the Centre in any way, please contact the Office on (02) 6255 1599.

VV&VFACT is a registered charity established to assist serving and former Defence Personnel, Veterans

and some Government agencies from all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations in their dealings

with the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA). VV&VFACT also pursues the welfare of their families to

assist them to optimise the quality of their life as the effects of Defence service take their toll. Formed in

1994, VV&VFACT is an incorporated entity (ABN 58 534 419 650). It is registered as GST exempt, a tax

deductible gift recipient and an income tax exempt charitable institution.


Acting Presidents Report

On 25th June, President James accepted the nomination and was duly elected as National President of the Vietnam Veterans Federation of Australia. As constitutionally required, he was unable to continue as our President and stepped aside from his Page duties to take on the National role. As the Senior Vice-President, I was unexpectedly promoted and will remain in the role of Acting President until the forthcoming Annual General Meeting planned for 22 September 2015.

We have experienced another good period at the Veterans Support Centre, Belconnen, and our hard-working volunteer Advocates and Pension Officer’s continue to support a wide range of claims from our present and past ADF members. Most practitioners are working at capacity with claims and appeals, and some have taken on the additional role of mentoring our recently trained Level One Pension Officer practitioners’. Thank you gentlemen for your efforts, I know the Veteran community is better served by your dedication.

Speaking of volunteers, I also must acknowledge the hard working crew of the Food-van. These guys (and gals) are out there in any weather conditions supporting the various community activities with the provision of food and drinks for the masses. Their reputation is growing, as I believe an increasing number of engagements are being offered as the community recognizes the value of the services this team provides to events. Given that the Food-van is the major source of our funding stream outside of the Grant’s process, we need to support this group as much as we are able – they are always looking for volunteers. As an aside, there are on-going discussions on the possible upgrade/revamp of the services offered by the Food-van group, and any decisions following these meetings will be advised in due course.

I am pleased to note that our regular Tuesday BBQ is being soundly supported despite some chilly Canberra weather which sometimes acts as a disincentive to creaking bones (in my case only!!). We continue to welcome a stream of visitors (Government, Service and community support)to this venue and it is important that we highlight the great facilities we have to offer the Canberra community and in particular our past and present ADF members. I can attest that the reputation of the Veteran Support Centre, Belconnen, (facilities and services offered to members) is widely acknowledged and sometimes envied by other community groups and Ex-service Organisations. We all have something to be very proud of.

Following the completion of the minor renovations at the VSC, with the generous support of a couple of outside agencies, we now have Pension Officers occupying the pristine spaces of two new offices. The provision of these offices alleviates in the short term, a problem we were experiencing with the increasing demand on our pension and welfares services. In addition, these spaces are also utilized by the Canberra-based VVFA National executives when not required by Page/Belconnen RSL Pension Officers.

Finally, keep the 22 September 2015 at 1100hrs free and attend our Annual General Meeting. I look forward to seeing you there.

Ian Thompson


Cutting down the trees at the front of the centre.

This was done for security and to allow light into

the 2 new pension offices which are now

completed. Many thanks to those who assisted.


VIETNAM VETERANS REMEMBRANCE DAY

TUESDAY 18 AUGUST 2015

On Tuesday the 18th August, Vietnam Veterans and their families paid

tribute to those who served, suffered and died in and as a result of the

Vietnam War. The service was held at the Australian National Vietnam

Forces Memorial on ANZAC Parade, Canberra, ACT. The service commenced

at 1200hrs and was followed by a traditional camaraderie afternoon at the

Ainslie Football Club.

The beautiful wreath made by Ruth

Turner was laid at the Vietnam Forces

Memorial

Our Patron, Bill Rolfe with his

wife Joan



TUESDAY 18TH AUGUST 2015

Gloria and Bob Jones, Philomena and Ken Cartwright

John McAllister, John Sainsbury and Peter Kercher

Rachel Ingram and Robert Page Col and Joy Perrin

Dennis Hebden John Kearns (JFK) and Robert Page



TUESDAY 18TH AUGUST 2015

Glen and Karen Toscan

Leannda, Taryn, John.S, John.M, JFK, Rachel, Pagey, Ross Dunn and

Ian Schafferius Terry Lawler

Doug Gale

Malcolm Jones and John Padovan

Jim Gilchrist (RSL Woden) and Jack Aaron


Veterans Funny Page Contribution’s from Doug Gale

Silence is Golden

Morris and his wife Esther went to the State Fair every year, and every year

Morris would say “Esther, I’d like to ride in that helicopter”. Esther always

replied “I know, but fifty dollars is fifty dollars”. One year Esther and Morris

went to the fair and Morrise said “Esther I’m 85 years old,. If I don’t ride in that

helicopter, I may never get another chance. To this Esther replied “Morris that

helicopter ride is fifty dollars, and fifty dollars is fifty dollars”.

The pilot overheard the couple and said “I’ll take the both of you for a ride but

only if you can stay quiet for the entire ride. But if you say one word, it’s fifty

dollars”. Morris and Esther agreed and up they went. The pilot did all kinds of

fancy manoeuvres but not a word was heard. He did his daredevil tricks over

and over again..but still not one word. When they landed, the pilot turned to

Morris and said “by golly, I did everything I could to get you to yell out, but you

didn’t. I’m impressed!”. Morris replied “well I almost said something when

Esther fell out but, you know, fifty dollars is fifty dollars”.

Children writing about the ocean

Kelly, age 8– This is a picture of an

octopus. It has eight testicles.

Jerry, age 6– Oysters’balls are called

pearls.

Wayne, age 7– If you are surrounded by

ocean you are an island. If you don’t have

ocean all around you , you are incontinent.

Bobby, age 6– The ocean is made up of

water and fish. Why the fish don’t drown I

don’t know.

The Titanic

A plane leaves L.A. under the control of a Jewish

captain and his Chinese co-pilot.. It’s the first

time they have flown together and the

awkward silence between the two indicates a

mutual dislike. Once they reach cruising

altitude, the Jewish captain activates the auto

pilot, leans back in his seat and mutters “I

don’t like Chinese”. “No rike Chinese?” asks the

co-pilot…”why not?”. “You people bombed

Pearl Harbour, that’s why!”. “No, no” the

co-pilot protests, that Japanese not Chinese”.

“Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese...doesn’t

matter, you’re all alike!” There is a few minutes

of silence. “I no rike Jews either!” the co-pilot

suddenly announces. “Oh yeah, why not?” asks

the captain. “Jews sink the Titanic”. “What,

that’s insane! Jews didn’t sink the Titanic!”

exclaimed the captain, it was an iceberg!”

“Iceberg, Goldberg, Greenberg, Rosenberg….no

matta...all the bruddy same.”


Soldier On Family Fun Day

19th July 2015

On Sunday the 19th July, Danny Burton, Leannda Mackie and Taryn Duggan attended

the Soldier on Family Fun Day at Grand Prix Carting in Fyshwick. What a great day!

Those who attended were able to race around the track, enjoy a BBQ lunch, grab a

coffee, see demonstrations from St. John first aid and also ACT Fire and Rescue. But

above all there was an opportunity for the Veterans Support Centre to talk to people

and explain how we can help and what we do here at the Centre.

Leannda, Taryn, Danny

and Kerry Clifford

Ready to Race Taryn and her son Harry all set to go!


We received a Certificate of Appreciation from Rob Pickersgill for our service

to the men and women of the Australian Defence Force. As a show of

solidarity, Danny presented Soldier On with a donation cheque on behalf of

the Veterans Support Centre.

It was a fantastic day and a whole lot of fun!!

Leannda burning rubber!

Danny tearing up the track

Danny receiving our Certificate

of Appreciation from Rob

Presenting Soldier On with our donation


Coach tour to Yass/Cooma Cottage


Mounting Medals and Memorabilia

Ross Smith PH: (02) 6292 1266 MOB: 0418 345 998

Tony Mann PH: (02) 6295 2038

Christine Wilde PH (02) 6231 9922 MOB: 0409 900 315

Dave Etherington PH: (02)6292 2699 MOB: 0419 819 503

The Veterans Support Centre Belconnen, offers the following services and activities:

Assistance to lodge claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs

Representation at the Veterans Review Board (VRB)

Representation at the Administration Appeals Tribunal (AAT)

A team who visit all the hospitals and the hospice in the ACT and Queanbeyan

The Food Van which is our main source of fundraising

A walk for health programme

A golfing group who play each Monday at the Duntroon Gold Club

A choir

A guitar group

A woodwork shop

A metal work shop

A library

Above all else, the Veterans Support Centre is a

place where you are always welcome, so come

in, grab a coffee and have a chat!

Coach Tours

Coach tours and trips to various local tourist attractions continue to be enjoyed by members of the Veterans Support Centre. These tours are funded by a DVA grant and organised by our hard working Grants Officer, Don Richards. There are always plenty of vacant seats on these tours so please take the opportunity to visit the many and varied interesting places around Canberra. Don is always looking for new tour destinations so if you have any suggestions please don’t hesitate to contact the Office Staff.


10th Anniversary of ACT Veterans Own “Garden of Peace”

(Extract for Warfare to Welfare Issue 29—October 2005, written by Terry Lawler, Coordinator)

Well folks, it’s happened! Yes, on Friday 19, Saturday 20, Sunday 21 and Monday 22 August, the VVF back yard was transformed into the “Garden of Peace”. On Friday 19 August at 7.30am the first of the heavy equipment moved into the backyard and promptly commenced carving out a rough design of the garden. MickBurgess of Urban Contractors was in total command of the works and it was not long before we could see the shape of the garden taking place. The work took all day with more members of the Landscape Contractors Association coming in to lend a hand, along with several members of the VVF. Saturday 20 August 2005, 7.00am and the rain was on its way. More members of the LCA arrived to commence laying the pavers, which were already late being delivered and Sergeant Bilko (alias Terry Lawler) was preparing to go on air to talk to Mark Carmody on the ABC Garden Show. The rain started to pelt down but finally the pavers arrived (thank goodness). More LCA members arrived along with several VVF members and it was all go, go, go. Honestly, you just had to be there to believe what happened that day. There were four crossovers to the ABC and Mark Carmody, who did the VVF and the LCA proud. The fantastic, and everybody involved should be just so proud of themselves. It was a sight to be seen - like little ants running all over the place. The garden was now becoming a reality, and finally the trees and plants arrived from the Yarralumla Nursery, and the rain was still pelting down. Before long the garden was about 90% completed and it was the end of the day. The rain had gone and there were a lot of very wet people standing around and talking about what had been achieved during the day. It was just fantastic. Sunday 21 August was basically a tidy up day, and again at 7.30am the LCA troops started to arrive along with more VVF members. By lunchtime it was all over except for the grass. The rain had gone and the garden was very wet but looking pretty good. Monday 22 August 9.00am the Hydro turf truck arrived to spray on the grass. The ground was still very wet, but down it went and the “Garden of Peace” was now ready to grow and bloom for all Veterans to use. There are so many people to thank for an amazing weekend - the members of the Landscape Contractors Association, all the companies who supplied the materials, Tony and Liz Dewar for their cash donation towards the garden, Mark Carmody of the ABC Garden Show, members of the VVF who worked in the garden (you know who you are), Col Perrin and his team for cooking the BBQ, and last but certainly not least, the partners of VVF veterans who prepared and served the food, including morning and afternoon tea to all the workers - Ladies, you were just fantastic and you did an amazing job. You know who you are, please take a bow.

Thank you, Folks. The “Garden of Peace” is there for you. Please use it. Enjoy.

Before 10 years On


Selkirk

ANTIQUES & RESTORATIONS

Offering personalised service and sales.

Specialising in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian

Mahogany, Cedar and walnut furniture.

Small silver items, both sterling and plate.

Selkirk Antiques have selected pieces of Doulton,

(including Flambe’) Shelley & Moorcraft Ceramics

Furniture restoration service available.

29 Summerland Circuit, Kambah ACT 2902

02 6231 5244

Fax 02 6231 3656 Mobile 0418 631 445

If you are ever in Merimbula...

G'day. If you're down near Merimbula and looking for a bit of camaraderie, we have an excellent Mens Shed branch here that operates on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday mornings, from about 0830hrs to 1200hrs - with smoko at 1000hrs. You're welcome to come join us for a look, cuppa, etc. On Wednesdays we do a snag-sizzle lunch from 1100hrs, but you need to put an early order in for however many snags you'd like to consume on the day. Our Mens Shed mainly concentrates on woodworking, however we are slowly expanding into small-piece metalwork. We also have a Passive Recreation area for those who'd like to just sit and gab, or play cards, or fumble around on a computer. We're to be found at: Manna Park, Red Hill Rd, Bournda (it's actually just a few kms out from Merimbula, along the Tathra road, and is in a beautiful bush setting. Just follow the signs after you drive past Tura Beach [4kms Nth of Merimbula.]. I can be contacted on 0429 797 590.

Dalton Neville (2 Sqn, Phan Rang RSVN 1970-71)


Donations

Donations are always appreciated at any time. If you are considering a donation

(tax exempt) to a charity please consider the Vietnam Veterans and Veterans Federation is a

registered charity established to assist veterans from all wars, conflicts

and peacekeeping operations in their dealings with DVA and enhance the

quality of their lifestyle as the effects of war service begin to take a

heavier toll. Formed in 1994, VV&VFACT is an incorporated entity

ABN 58 534 419 650. It is registered as GST exempt, a deductible gift

recipient and an income tax exempt charitable institution.

Care Inc. Who is Care Inc.?

Care Inc. is a community organisation set up to ensure consumers are treated fairly and have support to overcome debt. Our funding comes from the ACT and Commonwealth governments. It is a free service for people living on low to moderate incomes. Care does not provide money to pay people’s debts or provide emergency relief, however we can link you with services that provide emergency relief.

What is Financial Counselling?

Our financial counselling service is a free and confidential service. We can assist you to gain control of your financial situation. Our qualified financial counsellors can help you address fi-nancial matters by providing:

An assessment of your financial situation

Strategies for communicating with creditors

Options for dealing with debt

Assistance to access financial hardship arrangements

Information on consumer rights and obligations

Information on bankruptcy

Information on concession and rebate entitlements

Advocacy with creditors

Assistance to fill out forms e.g. Centrelink, Housing etc.

Referrals to other government or non government services

Specialist housing and financial counselling for tenants of Housing ACT or Community Housing and people who are homeless

Specialist financial counselling or people affected by problem gambling

Find more information at www.carefcs.org or call 1800 007 007


Veterans Health Week 2015

Veterans Health Week (VHW) will be held from Saturday 10th to Sunday 18th October 2015.

The week is an opportunity for veterans, war widows, widowers, current and ex-Australian Defence Force members and their families to participate, connect and

influence the health and wellbeing of themselves and their friends. DVA will be partnering with ex-service organisations and community groups to develop a

programme of fun and interactive events and activities at a local level.

You can go to the DVA website www.dva.gov.au for more information on events and activities in your State or Territory.

Christmas Party

Thursday 26th November 2015 Our Christmas function this year is a MYSTERY EVENT!!! Participants are requested to

arrive at The Veterans Support centre on Thursday 10th December to board the coach for

a day of fun! Cost is $50.00 per person and this includes a 3 course Christmas themed

lunch and the bus trip. Our usual Christmas raffle tickets will be available for purchase for

$1.00 per ticket. These can be purchased leading up to and on the day and

will be drawn at lunch. We would only be too happy for donations to go

towards the raffle. Keep watching your email as final details will be sent

out in the future.

50th Anniversary 1965-1972

Second Era National Service Scheme

Photos of the commemorative service held at the National Service Memorial in Canberra

ACT. On 30 JUNE 2015 are available on the National Service Association of Australia, ACT

Branch WEB site.

www.nationalservicecanberra.com

http://www.google.com.au/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRxqFQoTCNXI-fzTxccCFUQkpgodWcUKxg&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nationalservicecanberra.com%2Falbum%2Fphotogallery%2Fmemorial-canberra-jpg%2F&ei=TR7dVZXuD8TImAXZiquwDA&ps


WALKING GROUP

The walking group is open to all Veterans and their family and friends

The walking schedule is available on our website and copies of the

schedule are available at our office. If it’s raining still meet at the

appointed starting place to decide to walk or go and have coffee.

Contact Terry Lawler on 0401 109 550 or

[email protected]

GUITAR GROUP

The guitar group continues to meet on Friday morning at 0930 hrs. New members are

always welcome, no matter what stage of playing you are. If you are interested in

learning to play either guitar or banjo, or simply just want to come along and jam with

us call Ian Schafferius on 0434 717 093. Or just be here on Friday morning and join

the group. You don’t need an instrument to get started as there are a couple of guitars

and banjos that can be taken on loan.

Hospital Visiting Team

Help is needed Now!

(Southside needs help Urgently!)

Veterans need your help by becoming part of our hospital visiting team. Training and Support is provided.

I can tell you hospital visiting is very rewarding and you get to meet some very interesting people. If we can get someone to smile for 5 seconds then we know that we have enlightened their life for a moment in time even though they may be gravely ill.

If anyone would like to join our hospital visiting team, then please contact:

Calvary Hospital-

Dennis Hebden 0407 018 196

The Canberra Hospital, John James & National Capital Hospitals-

Terry Duffy 6296 1068 after 1700 hrs.


To the Boys we leave behind us

Private P.J. “Banjo” Patterson, 1 RAR

SO LONG, DIGGER

We’re off to Aussie, Feller,

And we hate to leave you here.

Gawd, we didn’t think we’d part like this

When we started out last year.

Remember the march through Sydney?

We were really glad that day.

We were “going to Korea”

And it had to end this way.

And the days we spent on the Devonshire

Our first long voyage by ship-

We laughed and joked, not dreaming

That this was your ‘one-way trip’.

It’s still hard to believe it’s happened

That you’ll march with us no more

That you’ve ‘grounded Arms’ forever,

And have fought your last cruel war.

Yes, we’re going back to Aussie, Mate.

And we’re going to march again.

And we’ll try to make it a better place,

So you won’t have dies in vain.

And while the band is playing

Our marches, old and new,

We’ll swing along there proudly,

Knowing you are marching too,

Yes you’ll always march beside us,

And when our time is through

We’ll muster on that “Last Parade”

To march again with you.

Banjo Patterson wrote this poem about leaving Korea, echoing the feelings many Australian veterans of Korea would carry with them forever.

https://www.awm.gov.au/exhibitions/korea/armistice/


Medals Awarded 47 years on (Article written by FLGOFF Alice Mason, Issue 57 Air Force Newspaper)

GPCAPT Arthur Skimin (ret’d) received four medals, second and third clasp to his Defence Force

Service Medal and his Active Service Badge from outgoing CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown, on June

23, 47 years after serving on the US Air Force F-111 Combat Lancer Operation in Thailand and

Vietnam.

GPCAPT Skimin was an engineer officer during the operation in 1968, which involved

maintenance and optimisation of the F-111 to boost night and all weather attacks. For GPCAPT

Skimin, the recognition was an honour and he said the medals would take pride of place next to

medals awarded to his late father, FLTLT Ernest Skimin, who served from 1926-1954.

“I wanted this recognition for my grandson, Jayden. He is an avid War Memorial visitor and it

gives him something to identify me with,” GPCAPT Skimin said. He said to AIRMSHL Brown that

“the Dear John letter was worth it”.

GPCAPT Skimin was the sole RAAF representative at the Royal Thai Airforce base Taklee, and

navigated some difficult situations after the withdrawal of RAAF Ubon in 1968. In an attempt to

access financial and medical support when he arrived, he posted as a “destitute Australian

alongside other blokes in shorts and thongs”, seeking assistance from Australian Embassy staff.

The F-111 missions flown at high speed and at low altitudes put the swing-wing technology, the

terrain following radar and the all new Pave Tack targeting system through real worl paces.

Although the experience presented some unique challenges GPCAPT Skimin said “there was

much learnings from the USAF crews that we brought back to RAAF base Amberley”. A family

friend who was instrumental in providing guidance and support to GPCAPT Skimin was LCDR

Danica Ellicott. “He is a phenomenal man who devotes his life to looking after the veterans.

This is a special day to honour him,” she said.

The Directorate of Honours and Awards and Directorate of Corporate and Community Relations

AFHQ worked hard to pull together the documentation to ensure the case for GPCAPT Skimin

to receive his medals was made. “I am most grateful to the team who took it on ,” GPCAPT

Skimin said. “Without the ADF, Australians would not have the safety they enjoy or the quality

of life.”

GPCAPT Skimin was recognised at a National level, with the Medal of the Order of Australia in

the general division , on Australia Day in 2013 for service to the community and his support to

veterans and their families.

GPCAPT Arthur Skimin is one of our Members and worked at The Centre as a Pension

Officer.


CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS

FOOD-VAN DATES 2015/16

CURRENT WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Tuesdays and Thursdays are the social and working days at the Centre. Some of the activities available for members and their partners include:

Tuesday BBQ (1200-1400 hrs) $5.00 per head

Walking Group: Terry Lawler

Metalwork: Peter Armstrong

Woodwork: Peter Kercher

Golf Group: Jason Brown

Guitar Group: Ian Shafferius

Singing Group: Gerry Mapstone

Come on over, we’d love to see you!!!

September 22nd AGM at 1100 hrs

28th Family and Community Day (Centre Closed)

October 5th Labour Day (Centre Closed)

December 18th Centre CLOSES for Christmas Holidays at 1600 hrs

February 1st Centre RE OPENS at 0900 hrs

September Sunday 6th Canberra Times Fun Run

Sunday 20th German Auto Fest (Patrick White Gardens)

October Saturday 10th Highland Games (Kett Street, Kambah Oval)

November W/E 21st-22nd Equestrian Competition

More dates to be advised in the December issue of the newsletter

NB: If you hold a heavy vehicle or truck licence and you can volunteer to drive our Food-

Van truck, please let Leannda or Taryn in the office know.


On the Road for Winter – Ian and Barbara Schafferius

Well the scene was set for a bit of an escape from the cold Canberra winter. The kombi

and trailer were packed and what could possibly go wrong as we headed out for a few

months on the road up in central Queensland. We had a couple of delays as a medical

appointment for Barbara was pushed back by three weeks and our dog, Sam, needed a

cruciate ligament operation. This should have been an omen.

We headed out and checked a campsite just out of Gooloogong and decided that maybe

we should travel a little further as it was just after lunch when we arrived there. So

onward we pushed. By Dubbo it almost dark and we decide to push on for Mendooran, a

place where we have camped previously. This seems to be a simple decision as we can

camp in the kombi and set up the tent the next day. This we did but the arrival on the

Friday night was spectacular. The arrival was with the kombi on the back of a tilt truck

as it decided to not play the game in the dark about 20 km out from the campsite. A call

to the NRMA got us in and set up.


So, from a plan that was going to be relaxed we had a broken kombi that needed

repair. The bit that broke was a burnt ignition switch which I meant to repair a

couple of weeks before we left, but surely it could wait until the return as we don’t

drive at night and the failure only occurs in this model kombi when the lights are run

at night for long periods. The failure would not have occurred had we either stayed

at Gooloogong or I had added the relay kit before we left.

Not to worry, I will have the NRMA ship the kombi back home to be repaired at

Volksparts at Bungendore. I will pick up the Subaru and go back to Mendooran, hitch

the trailer and continue on but camp in the tent instead of the kombi. Seems simple

but we still had one issue ahead that we didn’t count on. Sam did not settle down and

travel in the Subaru no matter what we tried. We finally gave in and came home. My

opinion is that Sam just loves kombis. The good news is that the vehicle is now fixed

and we can continue.


Christmas Closure

The Centre will be closed over the festive season

from 1600 hrs Friday 18th December and Re-opens

at 0900 hrs Monday 1st February 2016.

The contacts for Suicide Intervention over this period are :

VVCS (Vietnam Veterans Counselling Service ) 1800 011 046

Karen Toscan 0438 123 268 Lifeline 131 114 (24/7)

All other matters during this period can be directed to the Veterans Advice Network

ACT (VAN Office) on 6225 4600 or DVA on 1800 555 254

NB: Workshop usage over this period is subject to approval and availability as

safety is paramount!!

BBQ’s over the Christmas Holidays are : TBA in next issue of newsletter

Fundraising for The Centre

Coins for The Centre Your Federation has a fund raising method that all can join in without too much trouble or effort. It’s EASY - at your leisure at home just fill a container with any excess five cent coins and when full or when you are ready bring it into the Centre and a tax deductible receipt will be given with Thanks.

Aluminium Cans Another way to support your Federation is to bring in your empty aluminium cans to the Centre and place in the bin near the green shed as marked. These cans are cashed in to the recyclers and the Federation makes some money.

Library Our library is located at the Stephen King Memorial Centre in Page and has proven to be quite popular with members. We have a large range of books and DVD’s to interest all members. Our library runs on an honours system. Donations of books and DVDs are always welcome.

Vets at Villagio

Six guitarists from the Friday morning guitar group took their music to the Villaggio San Antonio, an aged care facility nearby , on the 20 August. As the repertoire of songs,

ranged from ‘Country Road’ to ‘Goodnight Irene’ there was much singing along, clapping and foot tapping from the appreciative audience. This was the first time the

band had performed together and we really appreciated the enthusiastic and participation of the audience. Watch this space for more gigs!!

Chris Van Reyk


Patient Choices

What would you do if you were unable to communicate your wishes regarding your health care and medical treatment? Would your family or friends know your wishes? Have the conversation and create an Advance Care Plan today!

www.bemyvoice.com.au

Advance Care Planning

Why is advance care planning important?

About 85% of people will die after chronic illness, not a sudden event. This means that most people will benefit from considering the type of care they would want during that illness, particularly near the end of their lives. Up to 50% of Australians will not be able to make or express their own decisions when they are near death. Doctors and family members will be unaware of any treatment preferences at this time if these have not been discussed and recorded earlier. Often families are unaware of their loved one’s views about what they would want done when too ill to speak for themselves. Families often feel burdened by the concern that will make a wrong choice. If there is not a clear statement of a person’s wishes, doctors must treat them in the most appropriate way. This can mean aggressive treatments that the person may not have wanted. Many people are now kept alive under circumstances that are not dignified and this can cause unnecessary suffering.

If your choices for the future health care are known, they can be respected. This is the guiding principle of advance care planning in Australia. Advance care planning (ACP) provides people over 18 with an opportunity to plan and record their health care preferences in case they become ill or injured and unable to express these wishes. These preferences may include, but are not limited to, end-of-life decisions. Advance care planning is based on people having the right to be informed about their medical options and to be treated in ways which respect their dignity and prevent suffering. The process involves health professionals discussing with people and their families the likely progression of, and treatment options for illnesses or injuries. This information can then be considered and informed choices made about future health care.

For more information on Advance Care Planning (ACP) go to http://advancecareplanning.org.au


http://planningaheadtools.com.au/

Powers of Attorney

The Public Trustee provides a professional service and will prepare your Enduring Power of Attorney, where you have nominated the Public Trustee as your executor and also wish to appoint the Public Trustee as your attorney for property and financial matters, for the determined fee set out in our fees brochure.

What is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives a trusted person, the legal authority to act for you, and to make legally binding decisions on your behalf.

Why have a Power of Attorney?

In case of accident, sudden illness, planned or unexpected absence, or when you just can’t cope, you may need someone to manage your financial affairs.

Types of Power of Attorney

General Power of Attorney – Only valid when you have legal capacity, useful if you are going away for an extended period and you do not want the authority to continue should you lose legal capacity and usually drawn up for a specific purpose with specific or general powers.

Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) - Continues to be valid even if you lose legal capacity due to disability or illness, ,ay empower your attorney to make financial, property, lifestyle and health decisions, may be activated when required or upon loss of legal capacity and allows your attorney to commence or to continue to manage your affairs even though you have become unable to give lawful instructions.

http://www.publictrustee.act.gov.au/powers-of-attorney

http://planningaheadtools.com.au/


FINDING LOST/UNCLAIMED MONEY

Locate funds from deceased estates, dividends and other sources State governments usually keep unclaimed funds from different sources. You can use the following essential contacts to search for deceased estates, dividends and other cash.

Search for deceased estates You will have to get in touch with the public trustee in the state where the unclaimed funds are found. The following contacts will be of assistance:

ACT — Public Trustee for the ACT NSW — NSW Trustee and Guardian Northern Territory — Northern Territory Office of the Public Trustee Queensland — Public Trustee of Queensland South Australia — Public Trustee South Australia Tasmania — Public Trustee Tasmania Victoria — State Trustees Victoria Western Australia — Public Trustee Western Australia

Search for dividends and other cash Here’s a list of government agencies that you can contact to claim your dividends and other types of cash. Remember that different kinds of funds are held by different state government agencies.

ACT - http://www.publictrustee.act.gov.au/unclaimed-moneys NSW - http://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/info/online/ucm/claim https://www.apps08.osr.nsw.gov.au/erevenue/ucm/ucm_list.php NT- http://www.treasury.nt.gov.au/TaxesRoyaltiesAndGrants/UnclaimedMoneys/Pages/ default.aspx QLD - http://www.pt.qld.gov.au/unclaimed-money/ SA - http://www.treasury.sa.gov.au/our-department/services/unclaimed-moneys-search TAS - http://www.publictrustee.tas.gov.au/about/unclaimed-monies/ VIC - http://www.sro.vic.gov.au/unclaimed-money WA - http://www.treasury.wa.gov.au/unclaimedmonies/ & http://www.slwa.wa.gov.au/find/ guides/business_information/money

National ASIC Search - https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/find-unclaimed- money

Superannuation search with ATO This site instantly searches the database of accounts reported to the ATO by superannuation funds, along with its own records of unclaimed super it may be holding on your behalf.

https://superseeker.super.ato.gov.au/SuperSeekerWeb/Super/PrivacyAgreement.aspx?Task=01211999-fd85-4bca-a5d7-664d3a4fdc51&NavGraph=Privacy&View=Privacy&pid=71

Note: You should search all states & territories as you may have funds in other states etc.

http://www.publictrustee.act.gov.au/unclaimed-moneys

http://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/info/online/ucm/claim

https://www.apps08.osr.nsw.gov.au/erevenue/ucm/ucm_list.php

http://www.treasury.nt.gov.au/TaxesRoyaltiesAndGrants/UnclaimedMoneys/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.treasury.nt.gov.au/TaxesRoyaltiesAndGrants/UnclaimedMoneys/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.pt.qld.gov.au/unclaimed-money/

http://www.treasury.sa.gov.au/our-department/services/unclaimed-moneys-search

http://www.publictrustee.tas.gov.au/about/unclaimed-monies/

http://www.sro.vic.gov.au/unclaimed-money

http://www.treasury.wa.gov.au/unclaimedmonies/

http://www.slwa.wa.gov.au/find/guides/business_information/money

http://www.slwa.wa.gov.au/find/guides/business_information/money

https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/find-unclaimed-money

https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/find-unclaimed-money




Let's talk about Wills

We are all getting on a bit (and living longer, apparently!).

So, just about every day we read or hear about Powers of Attorney, Enduring Powers of Attorney, Executors, Probate and many other things we have not had to think

about previously.

Exactly what is Probate? What is an Executor and what does an Executor have to do?

If any of these things puzzle you, come and have a friendly chat with our in house barrister, Fergus Thomson, one Friday morning.

Fergus spent 30 years in the Army, Regular and Reserve, and was Legal Staff Officer at HQ1ATF in 1967/68. So he will not bamboozle you with legalese!

To make a 20 minute appointment, ring the Page office on 6255 1599.

Correction to article on the defibrillator in June 2015 issue

The Defibrillator was donated by the St John Ambulance ACT not the Red Cross as stated.

No First Aid qualifications are necessary for the operation of the Defibrillator as it provides verbal instructions.

The statement “ we have trained personnel at the centre” is incorrect. It has been brought to the Public Officers attention that qualifications are only current for three years, therefore it is necessary for the centre to arrange for training or re-training of first aid officers.

If you hold a First Aid Certificate, please advise Leannda or Taryn.


Position

Ian Thompson President

Daniel Burton Senior Vice President

Gerard Mapstone Vice President

Robert Lawler Vice President

Robert West Secretary

Ward Gainey Treasurer

Lyall Camp Assistant Treasurer

Robert F Jones Committee (Membership Officer)

Peter Olsen Committee (Public Officer)

John Kearns Committee

Brian Agnew Committee

John Sainsbury Committee

Trevor Goodhew Committee

Geoffrey Bolwell Committee

John Flynn Committee

Robert Pickersgill Committee

David Tonacia Committee

Election of Committee Members 2015 AGM

Nomination for Committee received by due date are as follows:

As there was only one nomination for each position, all are elected unopposed.

AGENDA FOR AGM

1. Ode 6. Committee Appointments for 2015/2016

2. Apologies 7. Motion of Notice (Nil Received)

3. Minutes of AGM 2014 8. Appointment of Auditor 2015/2016

4. Presidents Report 9. Close of Meeting

5. Treasurers Report


The Veterans Support Centre Newsletter

Advertising Rates

Contact the office staff for sample sizes and rates. The editor reserves the right to vary the size of the advertisement for aesthetic purposes if necessary. There will be no added cost to the advertiser if this occurs. The newsletter is published quarterly (March-June-September-December), with cut off dates the last Monday of the prior month e.g. May for June. Circulation is approximately 500-550.

WARRANTY AND INDEMNITY BY ADVERTISERS OR THEIR AGENTS.

Advertisers or their agents by lodging material with the Vietnam Veterans & Veterans Federation of Australia (ACT Branch) Inc , hereafter called the Publisher, for publication or authorizing or approving of the publication of any material, INDEMNIFY the Publisher, its servants and agents against all liability, claims or proceedings whatsoever arising from the publication and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, to indemnify each of them in relation to defamation, slander of title, breach of copyright, infringement of trademarks or names of publication titles, unfair competition or trade practices, royalties or violation of rights of privacy.

Advertisers or their agents WARRANT that the material complies with all relevant laws and regulations and that its publication will not give rise to any rights against or liabilities in the Publisher, its servants or agents and in particular that nothing therein is capable of being misleading or deceptive.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

Copyright of all original material in From Warfare to Welfare is held by the author and should not be reproduced for profit without the permission of the author. Reproduction for non-profit newsletters, military archives or study purposes in proper context is allowable but acknowledgement of the author and source should be made.

Membership

Are you Financial?

Membership of the Veterans Support Centre is for a calendar year, February to December.

Membership gives access to training and workshop facilities, a range of social and

community activities....and a place to get together with a mob of like-minded Veterans.

Membership is open to Veterans of any conflict, serving and retired service personnel. Cost is

$35 single, $40 family. Payments by cash, cheque, EFTPOS, bank transfer or credit card

through the office. Current members are required to complete the top section of the form

only, located in the back of this newsletter or you may download a PDF version of the

Membership Form from the website. Print it out, complete and mail it to the office with your

payment. Please provide a stamped self-addressed envelope for your receipt and

Membership Card (Membership is tax deductible). Thanks to those who have already

renewed their membership, it is much appreciated. (NB. Direct Debit payments must

include your name and initials) See membership form on opposite page

Please remember: Even if you do not require our services any more, we have many more

veterans who require assistance, so your funds play a vital role in the welfare of the veteran

community.

Please show that you care! Phone 6255 1599 Now!


MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL FOR 2015 – INVOICE

The Veterans Support Centre actively pursues the welfare of all Defence Force members and their

families. Our services are available to both serving and former members. Your membership fees

and donations help support others in need and are tax deductible. Membership is due in February

each year and a $5 capitation fee goes to our National Office to support the publication of the

national magazine.

RENEWAL INFORMATION

Membership is per Calendar Year and is due February each year. Subscriptions are $35 for single and $40 for

family (includes dependants). You can pay by cheque, cash or EFTPOS at the Centre. Membership payments by

credit card can be accepted over the telephone. Please include a stamped self-addressed envelope for your receipt

and Membership Card if sending through the post. Payment via Internet Banking use the details that follow:

Account Name: Vietnam Veterans Federation ACT BSB: 805 022

Account Number: 03413747 (must include reference your name and initials)

Surname: First Name: Second Name:

Address:

Postal Address:

Telephone Home: Telephone Work: Mobile:

Current Occupation: Email Address:

Date of Birth: Next of Kin: Relationship & Phone No

Can you help with any of the following: Please circle...

Food Van: Yes No Cleaning Yes No Maintenance Yes No Gardening Yes No Hospital Visiting Yes No

Membership: $: Donation: $ Total enclosed: $

Receipt Number: Date: Entered in Database: Membership Card Number:

Payment Type

Cash:

Cheque:

Direct Debit

EFTPOS:

Credit Card:


The Veterans Support Centre Belconnen would like to thank the following friends and sponsors

AC/DC Mitchell (02) 6262 2680

(Automotive Computer Diagnostic Centre)

Ace Gas (02) 6299 7477

A Class Signs (02) 6241 5535

ACT Brake Services– Mitchell (02) 6241 5122

ACTEW AGL 13 14 93

Ainslie Football Club (02) 6248 8422

Beaumont Tiles Fyshwick (02) 6239 1771

Canberra Sand and Gravel (02) 6280 4133

Cosmorex Coffee (02) 6280 7511

Defence Health 1300 335 425

Discount Glass (02) 6253 1099

Duncans Plumbing Service (02) 6254 5678

Kennards Hire (02) 6251 2944

M & G Industrial Supplies (Metal) (02) 6280 7517

Next Connection (Electricians) (02) 6162 2251

Pace Farm Eggs 1300 653 447

Seears Workwear (02) 6280 0500

Trend Windows and Doors (02)6260 1266

3 D Paint Supplies Belconnen (02) 6251 5083

Vikings Club Erindale (02) 6121 2100

Waste Away Hume (02) 6260 1288

Working Gear (02) 6280 5885

Documents

FROM WARFARE TO WELFARE - vvfact.org.au Tuesday the 18th August, Vietnam Veterans and their families paid tribute to those who served, suffered and died in and as a result of the Vietnam