Guild Digest - War Widows' Guild of Australia NSW · Election information for the Guild Digest must be received by the Guild no later than Friday 27 January 2017. ... IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

Guild DigestWAR WIDOWS’ GUILD OF AUSTRALIA NSW DECEMBER 2016

2 GUILD DIGEST DECEMBER 2016

EDITORIAL

CONTENTS

OUR COVER Front:

National Guild President Mrs Meg Green and Chief of Army LTGEN Angus Campbell DSC AM at the

commemorative service marking the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam

War in October at the Anzac Memorial, Hyde Park, Sydney.

Photo Anneke Jasinski

Back: The Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway was the setting for the

War Widows’ Walk and Picnic October 2016. Photo Jan Stevens

3 From the Chair4 Guild Election 20176-7 From the CEO8 National President9 Commemoration10 Vietnam Commemoration

DISCLAIMER: The material in this Guild Digest has been checked thoroughly and to the best of our knowledge is correct. However, errors may occur which are beyond our control. If this should happen, we apologise most sincerely.

12 War Widows’ Walk and Picnic13 Welfare News and Transport16 70th Anniversary lunches17 Guild and Social Club News18 Friendship Line, Members’ News19 Gardening, Recipe

WAR WIDOWS’ GUILD OF AUSTRALIANSW LIMITED

ABN 24 083 075 914

Under the Patronage of His Excellency General The Honourable

David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d) Governor of New South Wales

and Mrs Linda Hurley

STATE PRESIDENTMs Rhondda Vanzella OAM

CHAIRMrs Jenny Wheatley

BOARD OF DIRECTORSK Arthur, D Haines, N Isenberg, B Jeanes, B Morrison, L Raymer,

W Thompson, R Vanzella OAM, J Wheatley

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERPatricia Campbell

GUILD DIGESTISSN 1449-3691

Editorial CommitteeP Campbell, B McMullen

PublisherWar Widows’ Guild of Australia NSW Limited

HEAD OFFICELevel 14, 227 Elizabeth Street

Sydney NSW 2000

Email: [email protected]: www.warwidowsnsw.com.au

Telephone: (02) 9267-6577Facsimile: (02) 9267-6601

Toll free numbers (for country members)Enquiries and Welfare: 1800-451-615

Friendship Line: 1800-451-615

Office hours:Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Annual Subscription: $30 due 1 April each year

Donations to War Widows’ Guildof Australia NSW Limited

are tax deductible

* * * *MOTTO

“We all belong to each other.We all need each other.

It is in serving each other and insacrificing for our common good that

we are finding our true life.”(King George VI, Extract from

Christmas message 1941)

A time of reconciliationThe Centenary of Anzac events provide an opportunity for us to come to terms with our wartime history.

In September we held a service to mark the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in Vietnam. For those who have visited Vietnam, you would have experienced their open arms in peace and forgiveness. Recently the 75th Anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbour in Hawaii – 7 December 1941 has been held. Later in December US President Barack Obama and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will visit Hawaii. Mr Abe is the first Japanese leader to visit the site and has expressed his wish to look to the future expressing the value of reconciliation between Japan and United States.

The writer recently visited the memorial and stood on the deck of the USS Missouri on the very site of the signing of the Instrument of Surrender on 2 September 1945, marking the end of World War II. At the 23 minute service, on this memorable day, the official party signed the document. The Commander of Allied Land Forces in the Pacific, General Thomas Albert Blamey GBE, KCB, CMG, DSO, ED, signed the document on behalf of Australia.

This was weeks after the Pacific War had ended on 15 August, 1945. General Douglas MacArthur, Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces conducted the momentous ceremony and in his opening remarks expressed his optimism for the future – hope for a more peaceful world; a world that is safer and better for all people.

Over the coming years there will be other theatres of war to be commemorated. These events provide an opportunity to reflect on the effect that war has on our nation and the families and how war widows joined together to support and give comfort to those who mourned their losses.

3GUILD DIGEST DECEMBER 2016

FROM THE CHAIR FOR YOUR DIARY

Welcome to the final edition of the Guild Digest for 2016, delivered somewhat later than we would have liked but in good time for your Christmas reading pile.

The War Widows’ Guild team has successfully moved to Level 14, 227 Elizabeth Street. The Board and team are planning an open day on Friday, 3 February 2017, and we look forward to members visiting us at the new office. You are warmly invited to visit during that day. The physical move went smoothly with the office fit-out installed on time and on budget. That meant everyone had a place to sit to complete their work on Day 1 and the facility to make a hot cup of tea. Despite our best efforts we experienced some challenges with internet and telephone services. I apologise for the inconvenience this would have caused our members who sought to communicate with the Guild team in late November and early December.

Our CEO, Patricia Campbell, has taken extended leave to attend to personal matters. Mary Wilson has stepped into the role of Acting CEO and is doing a terrific job of managing priorities. Thank you to the team at the Guild and our members for their flexibility and the support you have shown both Patricia and Mary during this period.

The review of our Constitution was one of the Board’s areas of focus at the planning day and Board meetings following the AGM. We have at the heart of this review the long term interest of Guild members, current, future and past. As many of you would be aware, the National Guild is also undertaking a process of considering how best they service all war widows and the State Guilds. This includes the appointment of a consultant and a review of their Constitution. I am appreciative of our State President, Rhondda Vanzella OAM, Wendy Thompson and Mary Wilson providing input to the National process with the needs of New South Wales members front of their minds.

It was a privilege to attend the Vietnam Commemoration on 29 September in Hyde Park. This was a very special service and it was lovely to see the involvement of our members and their families in proceedings honouring these veterans and their families. Congratulations to all who were involved in the day for your hard work behind the scenes that made everything flow smoothly.

This is a very special time of year. It is warm and the days are longer, the streets are decorated and buzzing and most people seem kinder, happier and more willing to chat and engage with those they do not necessarily know. For me I have the opportunity to pause and be grateful for my family, friends and colleagues, who have enhanced my year. My hope is that each member of the Guild, my fellow Directors and the Guild team, spends Christmas with people who are special to them, doing something they enjoy and remembering those who we wish were still with us. In warm appreciation of our association during the past year, on behalf of the Board, I extend our very best wishes for Christmas and the year ahead to you and your family.

Jenny Wheatley CHAIR, BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Christmas closure, head office

Closed Friday 23 December to Monday 2 January

Office re-opens Tuesday 3 January 2017

DVA Christmas closure

Closed Saturday 24 December to Monday 2 January

Office re-opens Tuesday 3 January 2017

Nominations close For directors and State President 5pm 18 January 2017

Open Day and New Members’ Day Friday 3 February Guild offices Level 14 227 Elizabeth St, Sydney

75th Anniversary Fall of Singapore 11am 15 February 2017 The Cenotaph, Martin Place

Field of Remembrance 21 April 2017 St Andrew’s Cathedral, Sydney

Spirit of Anzac travelling exhibition • March 2017 Orange and Newcastle • April 2017 Sydney

From the Directors, State President and

staff of the Guild.


GUILD ELECTION 2017

Directors Nominations are invited for four directors, three who are members of the Guild and one who is not a member. The Guild has a board of nine directors. The Guild’s Constitution requires that one third of directors retire each year (those longest in office since their election). In addition, one Director appointed to a casual vacancy must stand for election. In 2017, Kath Arthur, Brenda Morrison and Wendy Thompson (member directors), and Naida Isenberg (non-member director) will retire. They are all eligible for re-election, except for Naida Isenberg, who will have completed her maximum term as director.Nominations for the non-member position will be considered by a Nominations Committee of Directors, which will decide whether the nominees have the qualifications and experience to complement the directors who are members.

State PresidentNominations are also invited for the position of State President; the nominee must be a member of the Guild and must be or become a director. Rhondda Vanzella OAM, the current State President, is eligible to be nominated for this position.

NominationsA nomination form is included with this Guild Digest. According to the Guild’s Constitution, a nomination is not valid unless:• It is in writing;• It is in accordance with the nomination form;• It is signed by two members duly entitled to attend

and vote at a general meeting; and• The written consent of the candidate is included

on the nomination form or is otherwise received in writing by the Returning Officer before the end of the Nomination Period.

Nominees may, but are not required to, submit a signed statement of not more than 100 words which sets out information relevant to their candidature and also a head and shoulders colour photograph for publication in the Guild Digest. Election information for the Guild Digest must be received

by the Guild no later than Friday 27 January 2017.If you would like to be nominated as a director and/or State President, or to nominate someone else, please complete the nomination form, ensure that the person being nominated has signed their acceptance of the nomination, and that the two members nominating have both completed their membership details and have signed the form.

The nomination period opens 9am 14 December 2016. Nominations must be received by 5pm 18 January 2017 at the Guild Office, Level 14, 227 Elizabeth Street, Sydney. Nominations will not be accepted by the Returning Officer after the close of the nomination period.

Are you interested in becoming a Director?

Guild directors find it most rewarding and challenging to contribute to decisions about the policies and future directions of the Guild. However, being the director of a company carries serious responsibilities. If you are thinking of nominating as a director, you may obtain more information about being a director by contacting the Acting CEO Mary Wilson.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY Fire/ Ambulance/ Police 000.VVCS - Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service - 1800 011 046 - 24 hours.SES - NSW State Emergency Service, for emergency help in flood or storm 132 500.Rural Fire Service Bush Fire Information Line 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737)Please note that incident and total fire ban information is also available on the NSW Rural Fire Service website.

Handy numbers during public holidays


Challenging opportunities aheadI believe we are entering the most challenging time in the 70 years of the Guild’s history. We have come to a point when we need to not only observe and respect the aims and objects of the Guild, but also to decide how we sustain the Guild with a significantly and rapidly diminishing and changing membership. The community we are part of and serve has changed. Therefore, as an organisation dedicated to service and support, we also need to reflect on this and decide what the future holds for us and how we remain relevant.As many of you may know, as part of our new Strategic Plan for 2016-2018 we are reviewing the constitution, structure and processes of our organisation.Some would ask why we would want to review the constitution that has served us well for the past 18 years. In 1998, when the Guild changed from an incorporated association and became a company, the Guild’s governing body accepted the challenge of changes which were very significant at that time. However, we are now facing different challenges of similar magnitude in considering our future. There is no doubt the political, international, domestic and societal environment has changed and we too must adapt. In the spirit of our forebears

who formed the Guild, we will find the strength and determination to remain relevant and sustain our important role in the community.Over the next six months we have a number of important issues to work through. Our membership is ageing and our numbers are falling, including volunteers, which means some Guild Clubs are converting to Social Clubs.I encourage you to embrace and participate in this discussion. It would be a great loss to our community if we failed to embrace change. We should commit ourselves to representing our diverse community. One of the important things to remember is that the cost of running the organisation is rising and governance and compliance of an organisation such as ours is complex. The Guild collective, with State and National bodies with different constitutions may not be the best way for us to serve our community.While we work through all these issues, top of mind must be that we ensure there are programs in place for the well-being and care for all war widows. We must also continue to promote the needs of our members to Governments and lift community awareness of the Guild. We need to learn from the past, live in the present, look to the future.Although I have only been your President for the past five months, I am very aware of how hard our staff work for all members. This last five months has been busier than usual given there were additional events to organise. I must make a special mention of the wonderful efforts of the staff who were involved in the commemoration on 29 September to mark 50 years since the Vietnam Conflict. It was a very moving service, with grandchildren and the RSL Rural Choir making a wonderful contribution. The invited guests and attendees all commented how much they enjoyed the service.Guild staff then moved on to their next challenge, busily packing up in readiness to relocate the office to Elizabeth Street by the end of November, while still organising all the Christmas functions as usual. A special thanks and Christmas wishes to all the staff.I warmly invite you to visit our new office on Friday, 3 February 2017 to meet us in our new environment. I wish all members and their families a Happy and Holy Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Rhondda Vanzella OAM STATE PRESIDENT

STATE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Rhondda Vanzella OAM and the Hon David Elliott MP at the Vietnam commemoration in September


FROM THE CEO

What a year!70th Anniversary 2016 has been a big year for the Guild. Celebrating our 70th anniversary year has been very successful with celebratory luncheons around NSW and the Sydney metropolitan area. It was wonderful to see so many of our members enjoying the festivities.

Office move The Guild office has now moved, as a result of our former building being acquired for Pitt St station on the new Sydney Metro. This was a huge undertaking, looking for new premises, when so many other companies were also having to move at the same time, finding something suitable for our needs and to ensure it was accessible for our members. We have managed to find a fitted out office which needed only some relatively minor modifications, located a block away from our Castlereagh St office. It is around half the size of our former office, and we have now moved after a big clean out of items and records we had accumulated over the years. We have worked hard to ensure that we keep our historical records and archives which record the important work and activities of the Guild over its 70 years.

The move was a mammoth task, requiring significant down-sizing, moving furniture, equipment, services, disposal of many items, while keeping our normal activities and events operating. Unfortunately we had some technology problems with our telephone and internet system out of action for some days, and we apologise to members for any inconvenience.

Many thanks to Manager Jan Stevens who co-ordinated the move, and to our team of staff who worked hard to ensure that we continued our operations during the move. We are also grateful for the professional consultants who assisted in the process.

Office Open Day We are planning a Guild Open Day on Friday 3 February 2017. Please feel welcome to visit us on that day at our new premises. Our new address is level 14, 227 Elizabeth St, Sydney. Our telephone numbers and email addresses are the same as previously.

Guild commemoration The Guild continued its commemorative activities during the year, with the ANZAC Field of Remembrance held in April at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Sydney and with the Field in Hyde Park, near the ANZAC Memorial.

Vietnam commemoration To mark the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan during the Vietnam War, the Guild and The Partners of Veterans Association joined together to remember the widows and families who experienced and continue to experience the fall out from this War. The commemoration was a major event, attracting 300 attendees from all over Australia. It was wonderful to have the involvement of children and grandchildren, through their participation in the service and in the RSL Rural Commemorative Youth Choir.The Governor-General’s address was delivered by LTGEN Angus Campbell DSC AM, Chief of Army, and some of the address is reproduced on the facing page. Photos and an article about the service are on pages 10-11.

Guild events We also maintained our usual Guild events, including the War Widows’ Walk and Picnic in October, our morning tea for our friends and partners in the ex-service and broader communities, and the Guild Christmas Party at the Grace Hotel in December.

Guild housing During this year we have also made considerable progress on the development and sale of our three remaining housing sites. We achieved the approval of a development application for our property at Collingwood St, Drummoyne, and the site will be sold at the end of January. We have commenced work on the Dolls Point property and expect this to take most of 2017. Early next year we will commence on our final property in Drummoyne. We thank our development partner, HELM Pty Ltd, and Evolve Housing, who are letting out our vacant units.When I look at some our activities and achievements over the last year, I can see why we have been so busy this year.

Judith Brownhill and Matthew Piesse


FROM THE CEO

I would like to thank Mary Wilson for acting as CEO while I attended to pressing family matters. I wish all our members, Directors and staff a very Happy Christmas and New Year.

Patricia CampbellCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Vietnam Commemoration - Governor General’s Address Lieutenant General Angus Campbell DSC AM, Chief of Army, delivered the address on behalf of the Governor-General who was unable to attend our Commemoration service.General Campbell acknowledged those who had served in Vietnam. He said that it was not only those who served in battle who were profoundly affected but also their families, many of whose lives were changed forever.‘The partnership of marriage and shared dreams for the future were shattered. As widows, big and small challenges of life were to be tackled alone. And this is what you did.‘Calling on every ounce of your strength and fortitude, you raised and provided for your families without the security, comfort and counsel that a partner brings. And for support you called upon each other – drawing strength and understanding from a shared loss.

‘The War Widows’ Guild and now Partners of Veterans Australia is testament to this spirit, this sense of community, which helps widows deal with tragedy and move forward.‘For others, their husbands returned home – but they did so bearing the physical and psychological wounds of war. Vietnam did not kill these men, but it changed their lives, their marriages and their families. For so many families, dealing with these ongoing repercussions has been difficult. It has placed pressure on relationships and redefined family roles and expectations for the future.’Commenting that it was the wives and families who were there to pick up the pieces, he said, “At this service we recognise your sacrifice and your contribution. Vietnam was your war too. You too have dealt with great difficulties and heartbreak. You too have earnt the respect and the admiration of all Australians. And we remember you today and every day. Thank you.”

New Guild raffle We have a new raffle, generously donated by member Veronica Chapman and her daughter, artist Gloria Gardiner. Our thanks to Veronica and Gloria, for the sixth painting they have donated to the Guild.

The raffle will be drawn at the 2017 AGM. Tickets at $1 each are available from the Guild office and will also be distributed through Clubs next year.

Closure of Guild Holiday Unit Due to the closure of our Guild Housing at Collingwood St Drummoyne, we advise that the Holiday Unit will no longer be available for members to use. We continue to offer our bed-sit unit at Dolls Point. We are glad that members have had the opportunity to use our unit over the years.

COTA NSW – 60 year anniversary: Congratulations to COTA NSW on reaching its 60th anniversary. COTA is a peak body representing older people in NSW and has a proud history in being a force for change, initiating services for older people, advocating for older people and confronting ageism. The Guild is a member of COTA NSW and has, over the years been involved in a number of joint advocacy projects. The Governor of NSW, as Patron of COTA NSW hosted a reception at Government House in November to celebrate the anniversary.

Professor Colleen Cartwright, Director of COTA NSW with Patricia Campbell at Government House


NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Hello Ladies,

Well, nearly Christmas again. How this year has flown! I have been kept fairly busy attending many luncheons (not good for the waistline), meetings and commemorations.

The National Guild held its National Council Meeting/AGM from 18 to 20 October 2016. The first day was devoted to a planning meeting, focusing on the future of the organisation. It is clear that the number of members is decreasing at a significant rate and this is having an impact on the income being received by the National Guild. This year is the first year the National Guild has had a deficit in its accounts. The National Guild is financially sound but without a significant change these funds will only last for approximately five years. The Executive Council agreed that a Steering Committee be established, with Terms of Reference agreed, to rewrite the Constitution and look at ways for widening the scope of membership and structure of the National Guild.

Membership of the Guild has often been discussed since its inception. On the day of the Guild coming into being it was agreed that the membership would be open to every widow of the 1939 – 1945 war and to every widowed mother who had lost a son in that war. Membership was later extended to widows of WWI veterans. At the Federal Conference in 1961, Mrs Vasey spoke with feeling about the plight of the civilian widow. Mrs Vasey was very forward thinking and I believe she would be impressed with our thinking at the present time for keeping the organisation alive and maintaining the legacy and history of the organisation.

A successful annual dinner was held following the National AGM. The New South Wales Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, The Hon David Elliott MP was the guest speaker and the federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, the Hon Dan Tehan MP, called in on his way to another function.

The National Guild has its own Facebook page – The War Widows’ Guild of Australia Inc. I suggest that everyone with access to Facebook go online and “like” the page. Please share any of the posts. This helps to improve our profile in the community. The National Guild also has a new website. It is a work in progress, as we are still developing the content for some pages.

At the time of writing, the NSW Guild is facing some challenges in the coming weeks with the move to new premises. There is a lot of work involved with a move, as I am sure some of you know. Good luck for the move and I hope that you settle into your new home quickly without too much disruption.

Congratulations also to the New South Wales Guild and the Partners of Veterans Association of Australia for their successful Vietnam commemorative service at the Hyde Park Memorial on 29 September. There were some very positive comments and feedback from those attending. It was great to have the presence and support of the Veterans Motorcycle Club and the participation in the service of grandchildren of Vietnam veterans.

Merry Christmas to all members and enjoy the time spent with friends and family. Keep safe over the festive season.

Till next time.Meg Green NATIONAL PRESIDENT

Meg Green (centre) with Guild State Presidents at the Vietnam commemoration


HMAS Sydney IIThe 75th anniversary commemoration of the sinking of HMAS Sydney II was held at the Cenotaph, Martin Place and honoured the men lost on HMAS Sydney on 19 November 1941. Among the wreath layers was the Hon Natasha Maclaren-Jones MLC representing the Premier of New South Wales, laying a wreath on behalf of the people of NSW.

State President Ms Rhondda Vanzella OAM represented the War Widows’ Guild and laid a wreath on behalf of all war widows. She spoke to our member Mrs Joan O’Donnell, whose father was Chief Petty Officer Edward O’Brien and one among the 645 killed when that ship was sunk in a battle with the German Raider the Kormoran, in the Mediterranean.

Mrs O’Donnell attended the service with all her children – two daughters, two sons and their wives and two of her three grandchildren – and laid a wreath for Edward.

Alice Cashin MemorialThis Memorial at Woronora Memorial Park was dedicated in October and attended by Meg Green, National President.

Alice Cashin was an Australian nurse who trained at St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst and joined Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Nursing Service (QAIMNS) (Reserve) at the outbreak of WWI. She also served with the British Red Cross.

After leaving Australia in 1909, Alice travelled to London to further her studies and was intending to return to Australia in 1914, but instead nursed in the general hospital at Calais, France. She joined QAIMNS

Mrs Joan O’Donnell had previously attended, with her family, the dedication of the beautiful monument in Geraldton, WA in November 2001, which marked the 60th anniversary of the sinking of HMAS Sydney II. The Guild Digest, March 2002, featured a story about this magnificent memorial, in which seagulls personify the lost sailors in the dome, and the sculpture of the Waiting Woman evokes a feeling of silence.

in July 1915 and took charge of a large surgical ward in the general hospital at Ras-el-din in Egypt.

Alice was awarded the Royal Red Cross (RRC) 1st Class in January 1917 after having been mentioned twice in dispatches.

Alice was Matron of the hospital ship HMS Gloucester Castle when a German U-boat in the English Channel torpedoed it without warning on 30 March, 1917. Alice defied the Captain’s orders and refused to leave the sinking ship until all her 399 injured men and 33 nurses were safely on lifeboats. She left on the last lifeboat.

Alice was awarded a bar to the RRC, becoming the first Australian to receive this honour, for her bravery and devotion to duty. She also received the French Croix de Guerre.

On returning to England Alice was in charge of the 400 bed military hospital at Whittington Barracks, near Lichfield, England. She was much loved by her patients. Alice returned to Australia in the ‘Morea’ in July 1919.

Alice lay for many years in a grave at Woronora Cemetery, but now is recognised with a fitting memorial. Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO, Colonel Bronwyn Wheeler, Head Royal Australian Army Nursing Corp and Ms Jennifer Furness, a descendant of Alice Cashin, unveiled the Memorial. The memorial honours all nurses who served their country in war and in peace.

COMMEMORATION

Dedication of Alice Cashin Memorial


United in remembrance The War Widows’ Guild and the Partners of Veterans Association joined forces in a commemorative service in September at the Anzac Memorial, Hyde Park, Sydney. Their members and friends from across Australia attended.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. Arrayed on the steps of the Memorial were 521 white crosses representing the Australian lives lost. LTGEN Angus Campbell DSC AM gave the address, representing HE Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC, Governor-General. The RSL Rural Commemorative Youth Choir sang and enacted a simple, symbolic tribute to those who served. Presidents from State Guilds were among those who laid wreaths. The Veterans Motorcycle Club had a strong presence and Reverend John Tinkler, who served in the 1st Australian Task Force in Vietnam 1968/69, led the prayers and gave Benediction.

Thanks to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and NSW Government for their support by way of a grant to make this commemoration possible.

Vietnam Commemoration

Alexandra and Annabelle Green Aubre Pritchard and son Jonathan

Lorraine Burt, John Haines AM, Rhondda Vanzella OAM lay wreaths


Photography by Anneke Jasinski

United in remembrance The War Widows’ Guild and the Partners of Veterans Association joined forces in a commemorative service in September at the Anzac Memorial, Hyde Park, Sydney. Their members and friends from across Australia attended.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. Arrayed on the steps of the Memorial were 521 white crosses representing the Australian lives lost. LTGEN Angus Campbell DSC AM gave the address, representing HE Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC, Governor-General. The RSL Rural Commemorative Youth Choir sang and enacted a simple, symbolic tribute to those who served. Presidents from State Guilds were among those who laid wreaths. The Veterans Motorcycle Club had a strong presence and Reverend John Tinkler, who served in the 1st Australian Task Force in Vietnam 1968/69, led the prayers and gave Benediction.

Thanks to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and NSW Government for their support by way of a grant to make this commemoration possible.

Vietnam Commemoration

Meg Green, LTGEN Angus Campbell DSC AM, Narelle Bromhead OAM and WO Donald Spinks


War Widows’ Walk and Picnic

Photos by Jan Stevens and Adrienne Bowman

The War Widows’ Walk and Picnic 2016 at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway, Concord was attended by 160 members, 20 volunteers from NAB and DVA, and Guild staff. The Hon David Elliott MP, NSW Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Mrs Jennifer Collins, Deputy Commissioner, DVA, opened the Walk on a balmy spring day. The Army Band, featuring the beautiful voice of soloist Amy Johnson entertained everyone. Our thanks to DVA for their grant.


WELFARE NEWS

ClubGRANTS donationsThe Guild thanks the following organisations for their generous donations towards activities such as special occasion luncheons, room hire and bus outings for Guild and Social Clubs:

Come and join in at the Veterans’ Day CentreI was encouraged by friends to come along and join in the many activities at the Veterans’ Day Centre (VDC) at Concord Hospital. They were enthusiastic about the wonderful program and how much they enjoyed the varied activities and different things they had learnt. I now look forward to my regular visits.Excellent speakers including professional staff from the hospital discuss health and medical issues of interest. History, musical appreciation,

carpet bowls, games and travel talks are just a few of the activities on offer.Four times a year they have bus outings (cost involved) and attendees are also invited to other functions.The VDC provides morning tea and a midday meal. There is no cost and transport is available if necessary. The Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9 am till 2 pm. For information ring 9767 5295.

Written by Guild member, Julie Taylor

• Mittagong RSL Club and Moss Vale Services Club for Bowral Social Club $1000.

• Chatswood RSL Club for Chatswood Social Club $12,100.

• South Sydney Juniors Rugby League Club for Coogee Randwick Social Club $2,000.

• Crescent Head Country Club, Kempsey Macleay RSL Club, Kempsey Heights Bowling Club, South West Rocks Country Club each donated a $250 lunch voucher to Kempsey Social Club $1,000.

• Gladesville RSL and Community Club for North Ryde Social Club $2,500.

• Brighton Le Sands RSL and Rockdale RSL Club for Rockdale War Widows’ Guild Club $2,000.

• Tamworth Wests Diggers for Tamworth Social Club $1,000.

• Diggers@theentrance for The Entrance Long Jetty Guild Club $650 vouchers.

The Entrance - Long Jetty

Coogee

Chatswood


Pension increaseThe war widows’ pension was adjusted on 20 September 2016. The pension is now $891.30 per fortnight. This is an increase of $3.40. The Income Support Supplement (ISS) has increased by $1.10 and is now $263.10 per fortnight.

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs provides you with your pension and can give you exact details of amounts you receive. If you are unsure about your pension payments ring DVA for an update on 133 254 or country members 1800 555 254.

It is important to remember that the basic War Widows’ Pension and Gold Card entitlements are not affected by the income and asset test. The test only applies to the Income Support Supplement and the extra entitlements. DVA will send letters to those affected by the changes that come into effect from 1 January 2017.

This year Veterans’ Health Week provided opportunities to be involved in activities and fun events encompassing the theme of Social Connection. A special day at Concord Hospital launched the week and treated guests to a number of talented speakers about Post Traumatic Stress and Anxiety Disorders, the latest management of Diabetes, and Getting the best out of your Medicines. A tasty meal provided by Burwood RSL and light entertainment from the Sunset Station Singers were enjoyed by the participants.

The Guild held one event this year in conjunction with Veterans’ Health Week. Bankstown Guild Club held their ‘Get connected in Bankstown’ event at Bankstown RSL with 19 war widows attending. The guest speaker, Jessica Kelly, from Hammond Care gave an interesting talk about connecting back into art and music; the members ran a successful trading table; everyone received their show bag from DVA and enjoyed a healthy meal together.

Members enjoyed participating in new activities and we thank DVA for the grant and their support to the Guild to host this event. If your club is interested in hosting an event or joining with a

neighbouring club to hold an event, please contact the CSW team to discuss plans for next year.

New resourceThe Guild has in stock a new resource booklet produced by Lyndsay Lowe, of Dubbo, NSW which may be of interest to members.

The book Life & Beyond: Instructions for my family is designed to capture your personal information and planning ahead as well as significant memories and reflections of your life. It comes in a handy booklet size to collect life information in the one spot. It contains inventory lists for your collections and heirlooms, practical information regarding bank accounts, location of wills, people you want contacted in the event of your death, and other wishes and instructions to give to your family. The author has produced this book for all ages and all circumstances. The author “hopes that Life & Beyond will be of assistance to you and your family and allow you to convey your wishes in a non-threatening approach.”

A Community Services Worker or the Manager Member Services will provide a display copy at all Welfare visits to Guild and Social Clubs throughout 2017. You may purchase it from the Guild Shop in the new year at a cost of $15.00 including postage.

Speaking to DVA through a representativeThere may come a time when you are unable to deal with your own affairs and require assistance from those who support you. Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) has a factsheet titled, “Arrangements for Other People to Act on Your Behalf”.

It is a guide for another person to act on your behalf, such as speaking with DVA over the phone. It also contains information regarding power of attorney (POA) documents and how to provide one to DVA.

It is important for a war widow to provide a POA to DVA if representation may be necessary and notify them of any changes. DVA may then contact and deal with the appropriate person in matters related

WELFARE NEWS


WELFARE NEWS

West Wyalong welfare visit 2016

Cootamundra and Young welfare visit 2016

ThanksShirley McLaren, Co-ordinator of Northern Beaches Social Club, sent this message.

“On behalf of the members of the Northern Beaches War Widows’ Guild Social Club, who need transport to get to meetings and Guild functions, we would like to thank Jenny Yule, the Guild’s Transport Officer, for all her efforts in bringing this service to us. Mostly the service works well going from our residences to the venues, seemingly more smoothly than the return journey, which has had a few hiccups.

“It is difficult to condense the appreciation we have

for the professionalism, organisational skills and patience Jenny has shown with all our “old age” quirks. This transport service certainly makes our day very pleasant and enjoyable, as we gather together in friendship with a smile. Thank you Jenny.”

Thanks to Premier CabsPremier Cabs again generously assisted with sponsored transport for Guild members to the Walk and Picnic at Kokoda Memorial Track at Concord in October. Their contribution to Guild Special Events extends to their attendance on the day, to assist members as they arrive, and ensuring the correct matching of vehicles with members – our thanks to Barry Searle and Hayley Norvall.

Jenny YuleTRANSPORT CO-ORDINATOR

TRANSPORT PROJECT

Northern Beaches Fun, Food, Friendship Day 2016

Patricia, Kemal and Hayley

to your pension, allowances and concessions. Alternatively you may provide written consent to DVA to speak with a nominated person on your behalf about your pension, but this is more limited in scope, and it is still your responsibility to ensure that any required information is provided to DVA.

The factsheet is available from DVA by calling 133 254 or 1800 555 254 (country) and is available on their website, factsheet number LEG01(a) – Arrangements for Other People to Act on Your Behalf. To discuss this information ring the welfare team at the Guild on 9267 6577 or (country)1800 451 615.

Welfare talksThe Guild’s Community Services Workers visit Guild and Social clubs to talk to members on a variety of issues. Topics include your rights and entitlements, home support services, DVA support, and planning for the future. The talks also provide an opportunity to ask questions on how an issue affects you. If your Club would like to organise a talk please phone us at the Guild on 9267 6577 or for country members 1800 451 615.


70TH ANNIVERSARY LUNCHES

Events marking the Guild’s 70th Anniversary were held across Sydney and NSW during 2016. Thanks to Barbara Pittaway, Jenny Yule and Lesley Mann for their hard work in ensuring the success of 17 luncheons marking this anniversary year. Our final luncheons were held at Appin for our South West members, Parramatta for our Western members, and Hurstville for our Southern members, Mollymook for our South Coast members and Queanbeyan for our Southern Tableland members. The luncheons were attended by 891 members from 83 Guild and Social Clubs. Our Presidents Meg Green (National) and Rhondda Vanzella OAM (NSW) attended, with assistance from Director Barbara Jeanes at some events.

West Sydney (Parramatta)

Southern Tablelands (Queanbeyan)

South Coast (Mollymook)

South West Sydney (Appin)

South Sydney (Hurstville)


GUILD AND SOCIAL CLUB NEWS

Coogee Randwick Coogee Randwick Social Club had several of its members turn 90 this year, so they decided to hold a 90th Birthday for all their members over 90. The Club celebrates its 55th year this year, so it combined its 55th anniversary with the over 90s members’ birthday celebrations. Two special birthday cakes followed lunch. The Sub Branch President Barry Collins OAM, the Club Manager Steve Despea and President Phil Vannan were guests at this happy event.

QueanbeyanIn spite of wild spring weather, Tulip Top Gardens near Canberra was a beautiful sight for Queanbeyan War Widows’ Social Club members.Pictured, Marlene Shields, Doreen Lee, Hilda Fosdike, Gwen Bayliss and Rona Harrison.

Younger MembersThe Younger Members Group spent a lovely day on board one of the Captain Cook Cruise vessels recently. They cruised around our magnificent Sydney Harbour and enjoyed a superb seafood buffet lunch while catching up with good friends. Photo by Gina Parrelli

WauchopeWauchope Club celebrates with Joan Parsons on her 90th birthday in November.


Hello friendsI do hope you are all feeling bright and cheerful as the Christmas frenzy approaches. With all the celebrations of Christmas parties and so on, it may be a good time to remind you to wear your call buttons all the time when you are in your home.Unfortunately, mishaps do happen when we are unable to summon help, as happened to one of our dear Friendship Line ladies. In her 90s and having to make a toilet call in the middle of the night (something we can all relate to), she had the misfortune to hit her head on the door, so severely that she fell unconscious to the floor. This dear soul was only wearing a cotton nightdress while a cold breeze was coming through the window. She was not discovered until the next day by the nurse and cleaner who both arrived together. Thankfully she survived, after being rushed to hospital in a critical condition. Today if she touches anything cold, she relives this terrible ordeal. Have your call button handy at all times.

May I wish the volunteer team of war widows who gladly work on the Friendship Line a very merry Christmas and may they enjoy their days talking to our wonderful friends on the Friendship Line. If you are having a quiet Christmas, may happy memories be with you. Do spoil yourselves with goodies, have a great day and a very healthy New Year. If, on the other hand, you will be enjoying the day with family, may it be a Christmas you will long remember with much happiness and love and may the New Year bring blessings of good health.Until we meet again in 2017,Pauline

Guild Friendship Line 1800 451 615

10am - 3pm, Mon - Fri All members may register for calls

Veterans’ Line 1800 011 046

Every day of the year, all members

FRIENDSHIP LINE

Centenarians

Mavis Berryman celebrated 104 years, Gladys Power,103, Life Member Jean Wisniewski and Muriel Fuller, 102, Marie Gallahar, Ivy Barker, Val Trevivian and Mavis Storer, 101, and Elsie Poulter, Joan Harrison, Patricia Bell, Gladys Clift and Elizabeth Cadden - 100 years.

Mrs Elsie Poulter sent us her 100th birthday photo and thanks “for the lovely flowers and good wishes.”

Mrs Joan Harrison, also, sent the beautiful photo of her flowers in a card of thanks. Joan wrote “I celebrated my 100 happy years with two parties, a luncheon with my family and an afternoon tea with my friends. It was all rather overwhelming but I did enjoy it!”

Congratulations to all our centenarian members!

XMAS THOUGHTS“Love came down at Christmas; Love all lovely, love divine; Love was born at Christmas, Stars and angels gave the sign.”Christina Rossetti

“One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas day. Don’t clean it up too quickly.”Andy Rooney

“At this festive season of the year, Mr Scrooge,” said the gentleman, taking up a pen, “it is more than usually desirable that we should make some slight provision for the poor and destitute, who suffer greatly at the present time. We choose this time, because it is a time, of all others, when Want is keenly felt, and Abundance rejoices.”Charles Dickens (A Christmas Carol)

MEMBERS’ NEWS

Elsie Poulter 100 years celebration Mrs Joan Harrison’s birthday flowers


TASTY TREAT Spaghetti with prawns Serves 4Ingredients • 500g cherry tomatoes, halved• 1/3 cup (80ml) olive oil• 400g dried spaghetti• 1 chorizo (Spanish sausage,

available in supermarkets), sliced

• 200g green beans, trimmed, blanched, refreshed

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced• 1 cup wild rocket• Finely grated zest and juice of

1 lemon• 1 cup (160g) kalamata olives• 500g cooked prawns, peeled

(tails intact), deveined• 150g feta, drained• 2 tablespoons finely chopped

oregano• 2 tablespoons finely chopped

flat-leaf parsley

Lychnis CoronariaTwo years ago I was visiting

a mate of mine, and on walking to his front door I noticed some silver foliage plants. I asked him what they were and he told me that he had no idea. He offered me three plants, and like all Australian men, I could not resist a freebie. I planted each plant in pots, to allow me time to prepare the soil with cow manure and a complete fertiliser. Three to four weeks later I planted them. The plants advanced in early spring, and by mid spring began to flower. To my surprise the rose pink to scarlet flowers were a bonus to an already beautiful foliage plant. The flowering period is long if you continually remove the old flowers. It wasn’t until early summer, while walking in the herb garden in the Sydney Royal Botanical Gardens, that I learnt its name. Lychnis coronaria, or as commonly known, Rose Campion, Dusty Miller or Mullein Pink.

This plant, native to the temperate regions of the

northern hemisphere, is easy to grow. I find it is best grown as a biennial, and then replaced with new plants. It is so easy to grow from seed. I find the best method is collecting the seed or allowing the seed to fall on the ground to germinate naturally and then relocating to a new position when large enough to handle.

They are frost hardy and easily grown in cool climates, in well drained, prepared soil. I have never seen the plant for sale in the nurseries, but on a recent visit to Bowral, I saw it happily growing in a private garden and in Corbett Gardens.

In the two years that I have been growing this beautiful plant I have found it to be troublesome free. If you are able to purchase a plant, why not give it a try.

Happy gardening, David Symonds

MethodPreheat the oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with foil.Place cherry tomatoes on the tray, season and drizzle with 1 tablespoon oil. Roast for 20 minutes until just soft. Set aside.Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the packet instructions or until al dente. Drain and set aside.Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a frypan over medium-high heat and cook the chorizo for 1 minute each side or until crisp. Drain on paper towel. In a bowl, toss the chorizo with the pasta, beans,

onion, rocket, lemon zest, olives, prawns, half the tomatoes and two-thirds of the feta.Whisk lemon juice and remaining two tablespoons oil together in a small bowl and season. Add half the chopped oregano and half the parsley to the dressing, then toss with the pasta.Divide the pasta among four bowls, top with remaining tomatoes and feta. Garnish with remaining parsley and oregano, and serve.Recipe by Valli Little

Photography by Brett Stevens

Walk and Picnic 2016

Documents

Guild Digest - War Widows' Guild of Australia NSW · Election information for the Guild Digest must be received by the Guild no later than Friday 27 January 2017. ... IN CASE OF EMERGENCY