Formed 10th June 1989

PATRON: BRIGADIER J.J. SHELTON DSO MC

NOTEWORTHY NEWS

NEWSLETTER OF THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS ASSOCIATION INC.Website: www.aabcassociation.com.au

AABC Birthday 2015 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: President – John Franklin Ph: 0407 312 035 Email: jf33@hotmail.com.au

Vice President – John (Snara) Hadlow Secretary – Kevin Noon CSM Ph: (02) 6299 9954 (H) 0414 313 566 (M) Emai: knoon@netspace.net.au Assistant Secretary – VACANT Treasurer - Jim Harper BEM Ph: 03 9776 9172 Email: shadhar@bigpond.net.au

Assistant Treasurer – Sue Baxter Ph: 0412 742 564 Email: baxterwinch@optusnet.com.au

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:

Peter Guest - 0438 428 866 Bill Honter BEM - 08 9593 2868 Neville Lloyd - 03 9789 2979 Grahame Johnson - 08 8364 7232 Pat Steer – 0418 717 174 CHAPLAIN: LTCOL DENNIS J HILLS Retd Ph: 0417423363 (M) Email: denrose@mac.com

STATE REPRESENTATIVES:

VICTORIA: Neville Lloyd Ph: 03 9789 2979

NEW SOUTH WALES: Kevin Noon Ph: 02 6299 9954

SOUTH QUEENSLAND: John Franklin Ph: (mob): 0407 312 035 Email: johnfranklin@dodo.com.au

NORTH QUEENSLAND: Scotty Laycock Ph: 07 7757 7550

TASMANIA: Colleen Harbod Ph: 03 6224 0256

SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Pat Steer Ph: 0418 717 174 Grahame Johnson Ph: 08 8364 7232

NORTHERN TERRITORY: Geoff Carter CSM Ph: 08 8932 3632

WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Bill Honter BEM Ph: 08 9593 2868

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY: Ron Bennett Ph: 0419 885 359

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Schedule of Membership Fees

The Schedule of Fees for Full Members and Associate Members as at December 2012 is shown in the following table:

Fee Amount Entrance fee (non serving) $15 Entrance fee (current serving) No fee Annual subscription (members) $35 Annual subscription (widows) $20

Fees and subscriptions can be payed by cheque or electronic transfer. For details see Treasurer’s report. Note: Members joining on or after 1 January pay the entrance fee and 50% of the annual subscription fee for that year. The membership year is 1 July to 30 June.

LAST POST

We pause a moment to remember those friends and former associates who have passed away and to appreciate their

service and contribution to military music

Erna Silk

Laurie Lewis

William (Billy) Quirk

“OLD SOLDIERS NEVER DIE - THEY SIMPLY FADE AWAY!”

NOTEWORTHY 2014 DEADLINES

ANZAC EDITION 18th March

AABC BIRTHDAY EDITION 1st July

CHRISTMAS EDITION 1st November

All NOTEWORTHY NEWS contributions to

Stuart Colhoun via email: sepmc@iprimus.com.au

Or mail to:

Stuart Colhoun

5 Hammond Circuit

HOPETOUN PARK VIC 3340

The editor reserves the right to accept or reject any article submitted. Items published may be altered for economy of space and other reasons.

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A short Note………. Welcome to this edition of Noteworthy News. I hope you find it informative and enjoyable. Once again we reach the end of another year. Over the last 12 months the AABC has seen an enormous amount of change ranging from the structure of the bands through to the uniforms the members wear. All through this change the members of the bands continue to not only fulfil their role within Army but are looking to take the AABC ‘product’ to higher levels. As a member of one of those bands it has been most gratifying to observe how the band has come together, absorbing members of the discontinued regimental bands in Melbourne and continuing to support Army at the same time. In this edition I’ve included some photos of the Australian Army Bands performance in Japan. This is the Bands second trip to Japan, with the Band consisting of members from all of the Bands subunits, ARA and ARES. Kev Noon has kindly provided a report of those Association members who participated in the cruise aboard the Pacific Jewel. Despite low numbers of Association members participating, it appears they all had a great time. Also included are the minutes of the meeting. Congratulations also goes to Corporal David Portakiewicz of the 10th/27th Battalion Band in being presented the AABCA award for 2014. Best wishes from the desk for the festive season.

Stuart Colhoun

From the President

As the 25th anniversary of the Australian Army Band Corps Association draws to a close we are looking to our members for their ideas and thoughts on the best way forward for our Association.

As we are all well aware unless the Association is able to recruit more members from the ranks of soldier musicians who served through the late 70’s, 80’s and 90’s we will struggle to survive in the long term. To that end I met with Brigadier Mark Bornholt and Kevin Noon in Canberra recently to discuss this issue.

A number of areas were identified as being pertinent to the continued growth of the Association which was originally formed to encourage communication and contact between former and current serving soldier musicians. It was agreed that a clearer definition of the role of the Association was needed to better assist people to make informed decisions about joining.

The most common enquiry about the Association from prospective members is that of what it has to offer and if they joined what would they expect to get out of it. These queries are well founded and the Association needs to look into how best to provide answers and information to those looking to join.

In order to address the issues discussed in Canberra and other issues raised in day to day conversation, the committee will develop

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and distribute a questionnaire in the new year inviting all members to comment and offer suggestions.

Creating awareness of the Association is one of our constant challenges which we addressed this year by engaging regional and state based chapters to hold functions to celebrate our 25th year. Those areas that have had these functions up and running on a regular basis enjoyed significant attendance. Other areas also attracted good crowds and those attending these functions enjoyed themselves. This is something that should be built on and encouraged to continue.

The executive would like to take this

opportunity to thank all the state and regional

committee members for their work over the year in organising their particular get together. The West Australian chapter is worthy of special mention as they meet regularly, conducted another function in November and have a dinner planned for March next year. The Canberra chapter has also been active and have made plans for a combined RMC Band and Association golf match early in 2015.

In recent years attendance at the AABC Birthday celebrations has declined for a number of reasons. The Association intends to write to the Commanding Officer Australian Army Band with a view to developing the best approach that will see the way clear for current and former members of the Corps to celebrate this event together.

With almost one year past it seems that bands have embraced the operational changes introduced in January 2014 and are getting on with the job. The Association should now look to move forward and support these changes.

On behalf of the Association I would like to thank LTCOL Gordon Lambie for his support and wish him all the very best as he retires from the Australian Regular Army handing over command to LTCOL Andrea McMahon. The Association congratulates LTCOL McMahon on her appointment and looks forward to working with her during her upcoming tenure.

The Executive Committee wishes all members a safe and merry Christmas and all the very best for 2015.

Cheers JF John Franklin

Index Last Post Page 2

From the President Page 3

Treasurer’s report Page 5

Obituary Page 6

CO AAB report Page 7

Japan marching display Page 9

Recent awards Page 11

AABCA reunion report Page 12

AABCA meeting minutes Page 14

AABCA award 2014 Page 16

The Great War Page 17

From the past Page 19

Promotions Page 20

SCREAM Big Band Page 22

Geoff Carter, CSM Bandroom Page 24

Musical memories Page 24

From the past Page 31

Membership application Page 32

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Treasurer’s Report I'm still here but perhaps I'll be able to hand over the books next year. My wife Ena is still having a terrible time, if it's not one thing it's another. A few weeks ago she had a fall and cracked a couple of bones and has been in hospital and is now in rehab. We are not sure if she will be home for Christmas. This is another reason I need to retire as Treasurer. Jim Harper (Scrooge McShad) Pay your subs online AABC Assn Inc BSB: 704230 Acc. No. 100112721 Ref: YOUR NAME NO NAME NO CREDIT!!

When making out cheques/money orders there is no need to write the full title Only write: AABC Assn Inc. Cheques/money orders can be forward to the Association Treasurer: Honorary Treasurer AABC Assn Inc PO Box 2143 SEAFORD VIC 3198

The President and Members of the Australian Army Band Corps Association extend a very warm welcome to the following members who have recently

joined, or returned to the Association:

John Silver

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Harry Jenkin Obituary

JENKIN (Henry Robert): 20.12.1933 - 18.08.2014 To a wonderful father, father-in-law, grandfather and great-grandfather. Passed away peacefully. Lived his life with dignity, grace and gentle good humour. Was liked, loved and respected by all he met and knew. Will be truly and deeply missed. Rest now. From Henry, Donna, Adam, Leigh, Ashley Alexander, Lucy, Aaron, Harley and Henry. - See more at: http://www.westannouncements.com.au/obituaries/thewest-au/obituary.aspx?n=henry-jenkin&pid=172166454#sthash.KWs9vpZW.dpuf Published in The West Australian on Aug. 20, 2014 Harry Jenkin Band Resume Pre 1958 Boulder Salvation Army band (under Bandmaster Eric Bandfield) Boulder Mines band (under Bandmaster Jack Wallis) Golden Mile septet (2nd trumpet) 1958 Enlisted in Aust Army - Western Command Band 1964 Royal Australian Army Armoured Corps Band 1965 Army school of music 1966 6th Battalion RAR 1968-69 4th Battalion RAR 1969 North Queensland Army Band 1975 Royal Australian Signals Corps Band 1975 North Queensland Army Band 1976 1st Military District Band 1978-79 4th Military District Band

1980 - 1997 Wanneroo City Concert Band Channel 7 Youth Band Northern Districts Brass Band Town of Vincent Brass Band Jammin' Jazz 1997 onward Hills Orchestra Perth City Concert Band Perth City Brass Band Leeming Brass band

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Greeting from Commanding Officer Australian Army Band As I enter the final months in this appointment and indeed my time in the regular Army, I cannot help but reflect upon an immensely rewarding career, one made so by the variation of engagements and opportunities of course, but more particularly it has been the people along the way that have been central to all else that has transpired. As the Commanding Officer of the Australian Army Band I witness daily the achievements of our people in extraordinary situations, situations demanding of them not only talent (of that there is no question), but equally I recognise in them Army's values, qualities I rely on from each and every member to ensure our product remains as it is now, one desired by Army to support its soldiers, assist in its engagement with the broader community, and most importantly of late to play an integral role the strategic engagement Army undertakes with its international partners. Again completing in the vicinity of 2000 engagements, bands have certainly met the Chief of Army's direction to support the soldier and contribute to Army's effectiveness through community engagement. To fully appreciate the variety of engagements this year, you may wish to access the individual band reports in this year’s Journal, available on line in Jan / Feb 2015. Of particular note however were the performances by the Band in Switzerland and Japan fulfilling those strategic duties to which I referred earlier, not to mention the commemorative support given to DVA in France at this year's services in Villers Bretonneaux and surrounds. Our direct support to the soldiers saw us back in theatre with 1 RAR Band supporting Forces Entertainment recently in Afghanistan with performances in a variety of locations in that part of the world. At every turn I have witnessed our people working hard, whether it be actually performing, or carrying out the myriad of support tasks required to get a band to the stage. Imagination abounds resulting once again this year in taking us to new heights. The employment of technology within customer focused music is a recurring theme one cannot help but notice. For the first time in my memory I am regularly receiving requests from Army's most senior leaders on behalf of their troops for specific ensembles, ensembles that we have tailored their performance to the contemporary soldier's tastes; very rewarding. You will have noticed the Australian Army Band brand has undergone a significant refresh throughout 2014. Whether it be the new stand banners, the concert dress, the generic Rising Sun brand for our rock bands, or the development of our social media presence, I am convinced this as much as any performance initiative has contributed to the success enjoyed by the Band over this past year. I mentioned last year that we were to enter a team into the 2014 Australia Army Skill at Arms Meeting. Well, we did and the outcome was all that one could wish for. With a team of five shooters the Australian Army Band, on its first foray into this arena, took out a number of individual awards, but as if that weren't enough the team finished in front of many of the more favoured entrants including the entrants from two of Army's frontline combat battalions, a very proud day for us all, particularly any one of us that chose to parade through the halls of AHQ for the week or so afterwards, word had certainly got around. The ADF Theatre Project production, "The Long Way Home" toured the country over the February-April period this year and while our involvement was only on the fringes, the production highlighted how involvement in the Arts can greatly assist with the recovery of our physically and mentally traumatised returned veterans, and hopefully aid in their rehabilitation back into society. There is further work currently being done out of the office of the CDF scoping the expansion of this concept to include an annual workshop across all disciplines of the Arts to effect an enduring program for these recovering ADF members. Should this eventuate, the AAB will have more than 'fringe' involvement, stay tuned.

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You may notice a theme occurring as this article develops. Intended or not, the role and associated tasks for the Band is crystallising so that one can quite clearly see 'band effect' extends far beyond the traditional ceremonial and mess dinner roles. While this is nothing new to those of us who live it daily, it really has been a light bulb moment for many of the decision makers. I'm not suggesting you will ever see bands written up in Foundation War fighting doctrine, but I have heard this year the terms 'force enabler' and 'band' muttered in the same breath, and not by a 'bandie', high praise indeed!

Of course the people have been everything through not just this past year, but throughout my entire career. Whether it be the sage mentors and inspirational leaders along the way, the phenomenal musicians I've had the pleasure to work with, or the impressive YKC (Young, Keen, Capable) folk who confound me with their brilliance daily, each has made and continue to make greeting each day's work an exciting prospect; having observed many colleagues across other unrelated industries I appreciate this is not the norm and am thankful to have been so blessed.

This 37 year journey for me has not been taken alone. Carolin has been by my side since Balcombe and like many of our partners has had to ride the torrent of being a service spouse without necessarily receiving any of the accolades. She has done, and continues to invest so much of herself into the Corps both directly and through the support given to me for which she has my eternal gratitude; again, it's been all about the people.

Increased exposure in the international arena, well resourced and equipped bands, being accepted by our peers as an asset. These indicators must stand us in good stead in readiness for the challenges that await with four years of Centenary of Anzac activities ahead of us. We have all worked very hard to enjoy some of these past fruits of our labour, but as can happen all too often, the Arts are the first to feel the hurt of prudent fiscal management, so to rest on our laurels would not be wise. Being relevant to Army's needs has served us well this past year, and to continue doing so will ensure our future.

Carolin and I will observe with keen interest as the AAB continues from strength to strength. Thanks for a tremendous career.

Warmest regards,

Gordon Lambie CSM

Lieutenant Colonel Commanding Officer Australian Army Band Head of Corps Australian Army Band Corps

2015 AABC Association Reunion (Adelaide) Confirmation has been received from the South Australian chapter of the Association advising that reunion dates are Friday, 16 October 2015 – Sunday, 18 October 2015.

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Japan Marching Display

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Recent Awards On behalf of the AAB, I congratulate all recent recipients of awards at various levels. These are: Army Silver Commendation: MAJ David Bird WO1 Steve Mee Army Bronze Commendation: SGT David Shadforth Bruce Pinney Award: LCPL Scott McCormick These awards are not come by easily. Hard work, dedication to the organisation, and adherence to Army's values are the fundamental criteria and I thank each of the recipients for their outstanding efforts. Each has contributed significantly to the achievements of the AAB, something of which they can be very proud. More can be seen on this in the 2014 AAB Journal when available on line early next year.

Gordon Lambie CSM

Lieutenant Colonel Commanding Officer Australian Army Band Head of Corps Australian Army Band Corps

MUSN Ryan Casey of 1RAR Band being

presented with the Soldier's Medallion for exemplary service.

LCPL Carl Brumfield of RMC Band on being awarded a Soldier’s Medallion for exemplary service.

Soldiers' Medallion For Exemplary Service: CPL Colleen Harbod CPL CPL Matt Sutton CPL Ash Thompson LCPL Carl Brumfield MUSN Mark Anderton MUSN Ryan Casey MUSN Gordon Freeman MUSN Rob Kidney MUSN Michal Rosiak

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MUSN Rob Kidney and CPL Matt Sutton of AAB –Darwin were awarded the Soldier's Medallion for exemplary service.

CPL Colleen Harbod of AAB-Tasmania being award the Soldier’s Medallion for exemplary service.

AABC Association 2014 Reunion - Sydney NSW Aboard P&O ‘Pacific Jewel’

Report

At the Association Reunion held in Wagga Wagga in 2010 a proposal was put forward by the Sydney Committee to conduct our 2014 Reunion, which was to be held in Sydney, that a three night ‘sample cruise’ aboard one of the cruise ships be considered. If the dates coincided with our reunion schedule normally held in October that with a show of hands of who would be interested in this proposal resulted in a overwhelming response in favour and planning commenced soon after.

On investigation the only cruise available in the October/November period in 2014 was a three night P&O Cruise aboard ‘Pacific Jewel’, sailing on Friday 7 November from Sydney, travelling up the NSW Coast and returning to Sydney early on Monday 10 November. A notice was posted on the Association website advising all our members that a reunion cruise was being planned and provided details of costs along with all other details pertaining. In mid 2011 Queanbeyan City Travel was selected to organise cruise bookings and control all the financial and associated details. This included accepting deposits from members who were committed or interested in cruise travel and over the next two years they controlled all the financial aspects of members wishing to pay by instalments.

At the Melbourne Reunion in 2012 an update as to the cruise was provided to members, but the response from the meeting was not as enthusiastic as previously indicated in Wagga Wagga, but as it was early days the organising committee showed no concern. At the Hobart Reunion in 2013 the matter was raised again, but with only minimal attendance was indicated, which was disappointing.

Throughout 2013/2014 regular updates were provided via the website and a mail out to members encouraging them to sail was sent out to all members and as a result numbers began to increase, but not to the expectations the Sydney Committee expected. Finally at the end of September numbers travelling were around twenty seven, but fell as a result of cancellations due to price, other commitments and in some cases illness. Final numbers in the week leading up to sailing time was fifteen. Considering the lead time of over two years the numbers travelling and who had committed was extremely disappointing.

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On Friday 7 November 2014 members arrived in Sydney and boarded the ship. In no time it didn’t take long for all members to meet up and renew friendships and settle in for this short holiday.

At 1830h on Friday our Meet and Greet was organised in ‘The Dome’ where a special room had been set aside for the members and their partners and where drinks were organised. Our Annual Reunion Dinner followed immediately after in the ‘Waterfront Restaurant’, where two separate tables were reserved for our members.

Fellow shipmates at our ‘Meet & Greet’ Friday evening

Early on Saturday in our AGM an informal meeting was arranged to discuss the weekends itinerary, plus some association business and a list of suggestions were discussed that would be passed onto committee in the next couple of weeks.

Lunch on Saturday was organised at ‘Salt’, a specialty restaurant aboard that is part of an Australian chain owned by celebrity Chef/Restaurateur Luke Mangan. All our members and their partners attended and were impressed by the food, wine and service. A meal that was not only memorable, but lasted three hours. Luke Mangan was aboard this cruise and he delighted our gathering by joining us for photographs and a chat.

We organised that our group dine together each evening, which was very successful and on one occasion Michael Gojan and his partner Susan Lehman provided entertainment with their Ukuleles. This also proved to be popular with other travellers dining in the restaurant and with dining staff.

Overall the members who sailed aboard all remarked that they had a memorable time.

Our congratulations go to the Captain and his crew of Pacific Jewel on a wonderful cruise, the group coordinator who arranged our venues for particular events and Queanbeyan City Travel for all their help in organising the cruise for our members.

Members who travelled” Kevin Noon, Peter Guest (NSW), Viv Law, John Faul (NSW), Lindsay & Wendy Hobden (NSW), Michael Gojan & Susan Lehman (Qld), Dave Brooks & Carolyn Makris (SA), Neville Lloyd (Vic), David & Joanne Baker (WA).

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At ‘Salt Restaurant’ on Saturday at lunch aboard P&O ‘Pacific Jewel’ pictured with Chef & Restaurateur Luke Mangan

Australian Army Band Corps Association Minutes of the meeting

Aboard P&O ‘Pacific Jewel’ Saturday, 8 November 2014

Item 1 – Meeting Opened/Welcome – In the absence of the President of the association, Mr John Franklin the Secretary, Mr Kevin Noon opened the meeting at 0900h and welcomed those members who were travelling aboard the P&O ship ‘Pacific Jewel’ on the Association’s three night Reunion Cruise. The Secretary asked for a vote of thanks for Treasurer, Jim Harper, State Committee member Peter Guest and Queanbeyan City Travel for their help and guidance in organising the cruise. The Secretary expressed his disappointment in the final numbers who committed to travel on this cruise, considering the initial interest shown in 2011 and subsequent years with the time to plan financially. He acknowledged that some serving and reserve members of the association had advised that they would not be attending due to Defence and Government tasks during this time. The Secretary informed the gathering that because of the small attendance a quorum could not be achieved but the meeting would proceed. Item 2 – Departed Members – The Secretary requested that all members and their partners stand for a minutes silence for those who had passed away during the year 2013/2014. They included: William Baldwin, Merv Allis, Ken Holcroft, Roy Harbach, Ray ‘Lofty’ Gallagher, Frank Poll, Harry Jenkin and Laurie Lewis. In addition the names of seven soldiers who died on active service since the Second World War were acknowledged. ‘Lest We Forget’. Item 3 – Apologies – BRIG JJ Shelton, BRIG Mark Bornholt, LTCOL Gordon Lambie, John Franklin, Jim Harper, Sue Baxter, Pat Steer, Dan Hiscock, Peter Cobcroft, Ken Hussell, Kevin Klein, Dawn Wahlin, Rachel-Anne Martin, Fred Gfeller, Norm Harris, Ernie Trotter, Maurie Brown, Vince Pacecca, Barry Rogers, Byron Bootes, Mario Vidal, Tony Buckley, Bruce Munchenberg, Tony Sillcock, Stewart Clark, Peter Tuck, Sean O’Boyle, Dennis Hills, Don Jarrett, Craig Johnson, Peter Gunn, Joe Costello, Danny Buckley, Bob Keatch, Ivan Cocking, Bill Honter, Fred Rooke, Clive Bradley, Geoff Carter, Mark Durieu, Barry Spencer, John Hadlow, Don White, Scotty Laycock, Graeme Johnson,

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Colleen Harbod, Kevin Furness, John Seagg, Ron Bennett, Norm Austin, Bruce Pinney, Ian Milne, Scott Goulay, Betty McSween (total 54). Item 4 - Minutes of the Previous Meeting – No previous minutes were available. Item 5 - President’s Report – No report was available. Item 6 - Treasurers Report – No report was available. Item 7 – Election of Office Bearers – Held over until 2015. Item 8 – 2014 AABC Association Award – The CO Australian Army Band has advised that the recipient of the award for 2014 is CPL David Portakiewicz of 10/27 RSAR Band. Item 9 – State Reports – No reports were available. General Business Item 10 –- 2015 AABC Association Reunion – The 2015 reunion is to be held in Adelaide, South Australia on dates Fri 16 Oct through to Sun 18 Oct 2015. Planning has commenced. Item 11 – Future Reunions - The subject of future reunions was discussed and it was suggested that reunions be held every two years as per similar associations like RAR reunions, Army Apprentice reunions, Corps reunions, RAN Band reunions, etc... It was recommended that this proposal be taken to the Executive Committee for discussion. Item 12 – Questionnaire – The meeting recommended that a questionnaire be prepared and forwarded to members via the Newsletter or by return mail requesting members to respond to questions presented. Subjects for discussion that could be included are:

• Future reunions – frequency • Reunion format • Future of the Association/Where are we heading - suggestions to improve the awareness

amongst serving members of the association with an aim to recruit these members and members who may be considering discharge.

• Suggestions for the increase of association membership • To have an informal voice with CO Australian Army Band with regard to Corps matters,

decision making regarding Corps history, dress and AABC Birthday its recognition/ Corps celebrations?

Item 13 – Closure As there was no further business the meeting closed at 0945h. Kevin Noon Secretary AABC Association Jim Harper, BEM Treasurer AABC Association 30 November 2014

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The Australian Army Band Corps Association Award 2014

Presented to

Corporal David Portakiewicz Corporal David Portakiewicz enlisted into the Australian Army Reserve in October 1994 and has served in the 10th/27th Battalion, The Royal South Australia Regiment Band from this time. He assumed the role of Band Sergeant Major in January 2013 and has displayed exceptional leadership skills that have transformed the Band into a highly cohesive and extremely well regarded military band. Corporal Portakiewicz assumed stewardship of the Band during a fractured and tumultuous period with the departure of numerous senior members from the Band, including the previous Warrant Officer Class One Band Sergeant Major. His professionalism and maturity throughout this period of organisational change greatly increased the retention of other Band members, many of whom were considering discharge. His experience, decision making and problem solving skills were highly evident as he embraced the duties of Band Sergeant Major. Corporal Portakiewicz promoted active engagement within the Band and the Regimental Headquarters, with a focus on skills development and ensuring professional performances were delivered every time. From a recruiting perspective, Corporal Portakiewicz is to be commended. He has not only retained initially disillusioned members of the Band, and recruited diligently. The band has the highest retention numbers of any sub-unit within the Battalion. Under his leadership, the Band has been transformed from a non-effective and non-compliant cell, to a well functioning organisation with high esprit-de-corps. The Band has been utilised by the 10th/27th Battalion, The Royal South Australia Regiment for numerous public relations and recruiting activities and has made a significant contribution to the initial recruitment process for force generation. Corporal Portakiewicz has proven on numerous occasions the competence and diligence required to apply ceremonial procedures in relation to parades conducted by the Band both in the ‘concert’ and ‘marching band’ formats. The Band has received numerous public accolades and appreciation throughout Corporal Portakiewicz’s tenure as Band Sergeant Major, the standing of the 10th/27th Battalion, The Royal South Australia Regiment Band remains held in the highest of regards within Adelaide. Corporal Portakiewicz maintained a commitment to foundation war fighting skills for Band members, ensuring attendance at Infantry Minor Tactics training activities conducted by the unit. This starkly contrasted with the previous minimal participation of the Band and significantly enhanced unit training activities in 2013 and 2014, as well as positively influencing the internal perception of the Band. What is acknowledged by the Commanding Officer is the fact that Corporal Portakiewicz is fulfilling a Warrant Officer Class One tenure as a Corporal. He steadfastly performs the administrative, disciplinary, supervisory and instructional duties of Band Sergeant Major. He effectively engages external units and organisations such as AAB-A and DFSM on matters specific to the AABC. This year, Corporal Portakiewicz has successfully completed all necessary promotion courses and is fully qualified for promotion to Sergeant. Corporal Portakiewicz leads by example and his efforts as Band Sergeant Major as a Junior Non Commissioned Officer within the unit has been greatly appreciated by all members of the unit. Corporal Portakiewicz is a benchmark asset to his Corps; his achievements are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Australian Army Band Corps, the 2nd Division, Army and the wider community. John Franklin President December 2014

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The Great War 1914 – 1918 Ern Trotter

Today, Monday, the 4th August 2014 marks the CENTENARY of World War 1. Several daily Newspapers have printed supplements recording this event, items from which I’ve collected for our members interest, the first published in the ‘AGE’ of 1 Aug 14 was an announcement by the Secretary of the Musicians’ Union of Victoria, Mr A. O’BRIEN which states: “The Government is offered the services of 2000 musicians who have seen military service in the Imperial or a foreign army. . . . . . The men are not offering their services as musicians, but as trained soldiers. They include men who have seen service in all the crack regiments of the British Army and men of foreign birth who have made Australia their home by adoption and have seen service in Continental armies”. . . . . . . . . . Published in ‘The Weekly Times’ - Melbourne, 8th August 1914. On the Saturday the 2nd of August 2014, the ‘Herald-Sun’ published a photograph of the 15th Battalion, the OXLEY REGIMENT led by its band marching through the streets of Melbourne prior to embarkation for the Middle East. Well may our northern members question why a Queensland unit would march through the southern city. Well, the answer probably lies in the fact that until 1930, Melbourne was the ‘seat’ of Federal Parliament and the home of AHQ, St Kilda Rd, until relocating to Canberra in the late 1950s. A major training facility was located at BROADMEADOWS CAMP on the northern outskirts of the city and many units from as far distant as WA trained at ‘Broady’ including the highly decorated 13th Battalion, the MACQUARIE REGIMENT from Sydney.

The highest decorated Australian soldier who served in WW1 was LTCOL HENRY MURRAY VC CMG DSO & Bar DCM French CROIX DE GUERRE. Harry Murray was born at Launceston, Tasmania, during 1880, the youngest son of a ‘transported convict’. He enlisted in Perth as a private in the 16th Battalion the CAMERON HIGHLANDERS of WA in 1914 and rose from PTE to LTCOL in 3½ years. Trained at Broadmeadows, Vic, and transported to Gallipoli in 1915 where he was twice wounded and won the DCM as a member of the MG section. After promotion to SGT on the 13 Aug 1915, he was transferred to 13th Battalion the MACQUARIE REGIMENT and immediately commissioned 2nd LT. Eventually sailing for France where he was awarded the DSO at the battle of the Somme and was once again wounded. After an epic battle at Gueudecourt where, leading his troops, they repelled 3 German counter-attacks. The battalion lost 230 men and Harry was awarded the VC and soon after, a Bar to the DSO. Having risen through the ranks, early 1918, he was promoted LTCOL and assumed command of the 4th Machine Gun Battalion. During Oct 1918 Harry was awarded the French Croix de Guerre and in May 1919 he received the CMG. After the war he studied cattle

15th Battalion AIF march through Melbourne prior to embarkation 1915

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breeding in the UK before returning to Australia and discharge in 1920. He settled on a property at Muckadilla Qld and married. When WW2 broke out, he re-enlisted as the CO of 26th Battalion the LOGAN & ALBERT REGIMENT, Nth Qld, an AMF Battalion. He was discharged in 1944. During his long life Harry was regarded as a shy and modest person who died of a heart attack after a minor car accident on 7 Jan 1966, age 86 years. The number of times Southern Command Band passed through the gates of the Officer Cadet School, Portsea and ignored the two gun barrels displayed at the entrance was innumerable, yet one of those barrels was from the gun that fired the ‘first angry shot’ of WW1, when the Peninsular Coastal Battery was ordered to fire across the bow of the German SS Pfalz as it was attempting to leave Port Phillip Bay four hours after war was declared. Had it not stopped, the second shot would have ‘blown it out of the water‘. Fortunately, it stopped, sailed back to Melbourne, its crew were interned and the vessel was converted into an Australian troopship.

DVD Release "Our country’s call"

Alan Winter

Alan Winter has written to the association requesting that we spread the word regarding a new DVD release. "Our country's call" is a poem and song he wrote in 2013 and which, due to popular demand has been released nationally as a DVD so were able to use selected imagery to compliment the already poignant lyrics. AABC Association member Barry Rodgers, one of our retired members, was instrumental in developing the song for concert band. At a concert for Legacy on the Sunshine Coast the new DVD was launched on Saturday, 8th November. "Our country's call" is dedicated to Australians from many cultural and ethnic backgrounds who have served in times of conflict. After the release all national sales of the DVD will be handled by DFWA and profits retained by them. You can assist DFWA by promoting the video and website and directing people to a Youtube clip at "Our country's call Australia". This is a short clip of the song and has the full lyrics in poem form. We expect DFWA will be set up for sales within a day or two. We hope you are able to assist in promoting the DVDs availability.

RAR Foundation Tertiary Scholarship

The Colonel Commandant AABC has advised the Commanding Officer Australian Army Band of some interesting information and potential opportunity for those of our team past and present with service in 1 RAR Band. The RAR Foundation provide support to battalions and education assistance to children of those who have served in the Regiment regardless of corps or gender.

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In 2013 the Foundation launched their tertiary scholarship scheme which provides $3,000 per year to successful applicants for each year of their tertiary education. The scheme will continue in 2015 and applications are now open for three scholarships to commence in 2015. Details of the scheme and the Foundation can be found at www.rarfoundation.org.au. The scholarship criteria is relatively simple – the applicant must be the legally recognised child of a soldier who has served or is serving in the Royal Australian Regiment. Tertiary includes vocational and college courses. Anyone who has served in the 1 RAR Band and has eligible children will meet the criteria. There are likely to be many whose children meet the criteria and may be competitive for selection.

From the Past

RMC Band

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The old RMC bandroom

Looking towards the site of the present bandroom

Promotions

Congratulations to the newly promoted Major Matt Chilmaid who will be assuming his new appointment as Officer Commanding AAB-Sydney.

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Original compositions for big band Australian Army Band Sydney 2014

If you're looking for a cheap Christmas present head over to the SoundCloud website and download the Australian Army Band Sydney's new album for free!

https://soundcloud.com/austarmyband/sets/original-compositions-for-big

All the tunes on this album are original compositions by members of the Australian Army Band. The album is free to stream as MP3 or free to download in AIFF format from the Australian Army Band SoundCloud site.

Congratulations to newly promoted Major Dean Griffiths who accepts his appointment as Officer Commanding of the Australian Army Band Adelaide.

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S.C.R.E.A.M. Big Band (Sunshine Coast Retired Ex Armed Forces Musicians)

S.C.R.E.A.M. was founded by Keith “Phantom” WALKER in 2004 and consisted of musicians from the AABC who lived on or near the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. It was originally formed as a get-together with a “few” drinks. It was known as Sunshine Coast Ex Army Musicians but changed its’ name when RAN musicians joined us. “Kermit” WALKER came up with the brilliant name. After a while we realised that the old fingers and lungs could still pump out a mean tune so we began to do gigs. We used to rehearse at Immanuel Lutheran College where Shane McGUIGAN was the Director of Music having followed Jeff “Kermit” WALKER. Many musos came and went during this time but the nucleus remained. The retired armed forces personnel who attended were “Phantom” WALKER, “Kermit” WALKER, Shane McGUIGAN, Barry RODGERS, Tess HAWKES,Graeme STEPHENSON, Grant MASON, Allan LANHAM, Nelson OAKLEY, Peter STONEHOUSE, Ian DOUGHTY, Graeme McDONALD, Kevin BROWN, Rod FRY, Megan DODDS, Danny DIELKENS, Keith LOVE, Todd WYNYARD (R.A.N.), John LENNON (R.A.N.), Jeff POOLE, Don PALFREY and Keith DOWSETT (ex Army Band HOBART). Major Jeff COCKS and Major “Dinger” BELL have also sat in on several occasions. Queensland Education Department teachers who join us are Bruce BARNETT, Warren BREWER, Janet BREWER, Jodie LUTHERBORROW, Calvin HUNTER, Gary BUCKLEY and from Sunshine Coast Grammar Brendan SCULLY and Charlie SIMM. Dawn DIXON was the original vocalist. Dawn toured South Vietnam in a concert party in 1969. At the end of her 3 weeks she was told that she was to return to Australia. She and her band said they hadn’t done enough yet and stayed for a further 6 months travelling under their own arrangements and employing her more than adequate feminine charms to get from A to B. The band now has two vocalists namely Tanya McFADYN and Allan WINTER.

Sax’s from L to R: Barry RODGERS (Bari Sax), Tess HAWKE (2nd Alto), Laura THOMAS (1st Alto), Charlie SIMM (1st Tenor), Bruce BARNETT (2nd Tenor).

Trom’s from L to R: Peter STONEHOUSE (bass trom), Megan DODDS (3rd trom), Keith DOWSETT (1st trom)

and Ian DOUGHTY (2nd trom). Trumpets from L to R: Tom ANDERSON ( 2nd trumpet), Nelson OAKLEY (1st trumpet), Todd WYNYARD RAN

(3rd trumpet) and Allan LANHAM (4th trumpet). Piano: Geoff COXSON, guitar: Ed BETTEGA, bass: Ken GIBSON, drums: Graeme "Macca" MACDONALD.

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When Phantom decamped the Sunshine Coast the organisation of S.C.R.E.A.M.was taken over by Charlie SIMM, Peter STONEHOUSE and Keith DOWSETT. Charlies’ dad, Geoff SIMM was a RAAF musician so we reckoned that entitled Charlie to come in. It must also be noted that Charlie is a brilliant tenor sax/clarinet player and MC extraordinaire. S.C.R.E.A.M. has been working hard in recent years and has been invited to play at the prestigious Noosa Jazz Festival for the last 3 years. 2014 was the highlight to date as we backed Grace KNIGHT. Grace was the top star and loved the band not only for its’ cool swing but also for their great stage presence. The band has done a number of corporate gigs and fund raising shows for Legacy. It is a feather in our cap to keep a group like this going in the face of an apathetic entertainment system that seems to employ 1 or 2 so called musicians with “plastic” backing tracks. The performance venues have been the Sands Tavern, the Caloundra Power Boat Club, the Maroochydore RSL, the Caloundra RSL, the Mudjimba RSL,Twin Waters Corporate function room, the Noosa Jazz Action Society and the Sunshine Coast Grammar school auditorium with John MORRISON and Jackie COOPER. Jackie is the daughter of ex RAAF OP COM bandmaster Tom COOPER. It is a pleasure to play with this group which now consists of Ex Armed Forces Musos and school music teachers. The camaraderie, skill, mateship and lack of overinflated egos ensure an enjoyable gig every time. We have all “Been There Done That” so there is no squabbling or petty jealousy. At the ripe old age of 71 I have found a new lease of musical life and thoroughly enjoy every moment of S.C.R.E.A.M. On behalf of all S.C.R.E.A.M. members, Barry RODGERS

AAB-P performing in Forest Place entertaining the Perth city crowd on a beautiful day.

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WO1 Geoff Carter, CSM Bandroom On 1st October, 2014, Australian Army Band Darwin formally recognised the unparalleled service of the band’s founder, WO1 Geoff Carter, CSM by naming the building in his honour. Amongst those in attendance were the Commander Northern Command, Commodore Brenton Smyth, RAN, the CO and RSM AAB, present and former members of AAB-D and Geoff’s family. It was a fitting tribute to the commitment Geoff made to AAB-D over a 25 year period and ensures that the legacy of this commitment will endure.

Darren Cole Captain Officer Commanding/Music Director

MUSICAL MEMORIES & MUSO’S MAILBAG By Ern TROTTER QGM

Well, the festive season is about to commence, so I guess I should start with an appropriate greeting - So: “A Happy & Safe Family Christmas and a Prosperous New Year to our Members and Friends!” The months of June and July were a particularly sad period for me, as three former musical comrades reached the ‘Grand Pause’. I wrote a tribute for two of them LOFTY GALLAGHER and FRANK POLL but not the third, LAURENCE COOPER, better known to his mates as ‘Titch’, but intend

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to mention him later in this bulletin. I’m pleased to report two of our ‘sickies’ are making a steady recovery. The first was BOB BUTCHER who suffered a heart attack, was hospitalised where surgeons inserted a ’stent’. Bob’s annual visit to Qld was not without minor medical drama when feeling unwell, he admitted himself to the Dubbo Hospital where the doctors discovered several small clots on the lungs which they successfully dissolved. Two days later he was able to resume his journey. He’s since returned home and re-commenced bowling. The second patient was TOM GILLIGAN who suffered a ‘bowel blockage’ which needed a five day visit to the hospital. They recommended he start eating as an 82 year old and forego the ‘rugged diet’ of a young man. Now Tom (known to his mates as Quimby) in his early days was a cook and well versed in dietary matters now complains about eating food beautifully prepared by his beloved wife BEVERLEY. Early in his army career, he saw the error of his ways and reverted to his first love of music, joined Central Command Band and attended the second Corporal’s Course at the AASM Balcombe, attaining a good pass mark. His future looked assured until his ‘wild, bog Irish temper’ kicked in at a most inappropriate moment. I over-looked his ‘Hibernian hiatus’ and invited him to be God-father to my son . . . . . . ‘A task he accomplished with great distinction!’ Since I wrote the tribute to LOFTY GALLAGHER, I discovered another ‘substantiated story’ to be included in the ‘Legend of Lofty’. When he took the group of students to the UK and entered them in the Junior Instrumental Championships, he also entered in the adult contest as a tuba player. He was placed second and the adjudicator queried why he had chosen to play a cornet solo. I could just imagine Lofty’s reply that his choice gave him the opportunity to perform ‘double & triple tongue passages’ that are normally absent in bass solos. On the last day of winter, I received a call from LIONEL GREEN of the South Coast of NSW, to advise one of the ‘Oldies’ who travelled south for Lofty’s farewell was CHALKIE WHITE. Of course it was too late to be included in the tribute, but we hear so little of the KAPOOKA CLASS (Original class of Band-boys) I considered it to be well worth a mention. To my recollection there would be no more than four who survive the ravages of time, including CHALKIE. Others include KEVIN KLEIN ‘whose health is poor’, ARTHUR HENSON and MIKE CHAPPLE. One of Southern Command Band’s former ‘National Service personnel’ made contact through KEVIN NOON seeking the whereabouts of a mutual friend, MARIO TROHA. The enquirer was LINDSAY LOVERING of Perth WA, on behalf of ALAN CAMPBELL. The ‘odd similarity’ between the two ‘passionate nashos’ was like comparing Rabbie Burn’s ‘Tam O’Shanter’s Ride with the exploits of Till Eulenspiegel’ so let’s hope the contact is ‘fruitful’ but uncomplicated. It was a pleasant interlude to put two boyhood friends in contact through a third and fourth person. . . . . . ‘but that’s the way the system works sometimes!’ I had occasion to ring JOHN HUGHES in Sydney, to advise the death of FRANK POLL. Conversations with John are always interesting because of his wide knowledge of military history, music in general and the Salvation Army in particular. During his Army career, in addition to his normal duties, he was Bandmaster of several Sally Bands among which was the Melbourne City Temple. A notable predecessor was the highly respected Deputy Bandmaster ARTHUR GULLIDGE. Of course most of us are aware of his sad fate (mentioned later in this bulletin). John recently lost a leg and has moved into a house modified for his needs and seems contented. He recently received (from a welfare benefactor as part of his recuperative success) a brand new silver-plated Chinese euphonium which he declared is comparable with its famous English competitor, and only a ‘fraction’ of the cost. I believe BOB BUTCHER & COL FISCHER have both purchased instruments (euphonium & tuba) from the same supplier and are equally satisfied. Whilst ‘trawling’ through my memories I recalled many old friends and one who ‘stood-out’ was LOU RYCHTER, a Czech migrant, or (more correctly a Sudaten German). Lou served briefly in the German Army but did not see active service. He evaded the communist take-over of

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Czechoslovakia by escaping to Austria from where he eventually migrated to Australia. In due course he became an Australian citizen and applied to join the RAAF as a trainee pilot, but the medics discovered an ‘ocular stigmatism’ so his application was unsuccessful. Nevertheless, he obtained his civil licence to fly, an interest he retained for the rest of his life. Trained as a musician, he joined the Naval Reserve Band at HMAS Latrobe but after a couple of years he joined Southern Command Band as a cornet player. Present for the conversion to military band, he learned the clarinet. Towards the end of his engagement German/Austrian restaurants were becoming popular and he was offered the position as leader of an ‘Oom-pah Band’ at the Salzburg Lodge, Heidelberg, an opportunity he grasped. Lou’s new job had a propitious effect for Southern Command Band when the social club decided to have a couple of their ‘annual blow-outs’ at the Lodge with a generous discount through his considerable influence. He later had several business interests but eventually moved to Tasmania, his Australian wife’s home state. Unfortunately, he succumbed to cancer and died. FRANK POLL whom he had befriended, was determined his service would not pass un-noticed, went to Tassie to provide ’musical honours’ at his funeral; a generous gesture to a loyal friend. As a ’Box-head’ Lou was a bloody good bloke who whole-heartedly embraced Australia. When I joined Southern Command Band in 1951, there were two ‘Titches’ in the band, RON GLAZNER and LAURIE COOPER. Titch Glazner enlisted in the AIF early in WW2 as the Australasian Junior Champion Cornet Player, although he served in the ranks of 2/2nd Pioneer Battalion as a digger. His unit had served in Syria and was returning to Australia to defend the homeland when the ship put in to the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia), and disembarked the troops just in time to be captured by the Japanese. As a prisoner of war he suffered the same torturous mistreatment and indignities as thousands of his compatriots, however he survived, recuperated and decided to remain in the service and was ultimately posted to BCOF Japan as a member of 66 Battalion Band (2RAR) under the direction of SGT JACK SILK. Having retained his musical skills, he was promoted CPL and in due course, was re-deployed to Southern Command Band as the 2nd chair solo cornet; top chair was occupied by SGT TED GADD. When the new pattern greatcoat was issued about 1950, the ‘Q’ Store didn’t have his size in stock, so as a temporary ‘measure’ they offered him an Australian Womens Army Service greatcoat. It was a perfect fit except it had all this extra material ‘up-front’ to accommodate ‘female configuration’. As a former POW Titch was able to accept this inconvenience including the fact that female garments fasten on the opposite side to males. The nomenclature for this item was Coats Great, Womens Double Breasted, but on Titch, it took on a whole new meaning. He was later promoted SGT and posted to the Puckapunyal Area Band. Subsequently he was appointed Deputy Bandmaster of the RAE Band, Casula. I was later surprised to hear that he had been discharged and returned to Melbourne. He found employment at the Tip-Top Bakery in Footscray. I’m unsure if his wartime experiences affected his health, but Titch wasn’t destined to make ‘old bones’ and died at a relatively young age. . . . . . . ‘more’s the pity!’ TITCH COOPER joined the AIF towards the end of WW2 and his first posting was to 66 Battalion Band, Hiro, Japan, as a Corps Drummer. Later re-deployed to Southern Command Band where he learned to play trombone and completed the section of DUDLEY MADDEN, TITCH & WALLY GRAYSON. I don’t suppose it mattered too much as a drummer, but Titch’s sporting interest was amateur boxing of which he was most accomplished. He was trained by the famous AMBROSE PALMER who suggested he turn professional and as a recently married man, he was always on the look-out for a few extra ‘shekels’ so accepted his advice. He was winning 8 round bouts at the West Melbourne stadium when his career faltered. During the early 1950s before Bandmasters were commissioned, the band were frequently called upon to provide ‘working parties’ when units appropriate to the task were ‘too busy counting blankets or delivering bags of spuds’. One task detailed to the band in 1951 was to set-up

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accommodation stores at the new WRAAC TRAINING SCHOOL at CROW’S NEST, Queenscliff. ‘Isn’t that an oddly named location for a female establishment?’ A group of volunteers - ‘you, you, you and you etc’ were detailed and included the D/Maj SGT BILL McCONVILLE, CPLS SLIM SCANLEN & TITCH GLAZNER, LCPL MORRIE McKERCHER, BDSM WALLY GRAYSON, TITCH COOPER and (the only singlie) ERN TROTTER. The RV was the RTO Spencer Street station where we were to meet a draft of 12 WRAACS and proceed 70 miles to Queenscliff in an old ACF bus. The 2nd division of the ‘Spirit of Progress’ ex Sydney was 2 hours late so where does a Digger go to kill time? . . . . . . ‘The pub, of course!’ Not quite ‘hammered’ when the train arrived, Bill McConville effusively greeted the OC draught, a WRAAC Captain, spluttering and breathing beer fumes over her to her obvious discomfort at which point, we were considered ‘persona non grata’. During the journey, the band were relegated to the back of the bus while the girls sat at the front singing ‘girly songs’ all the way to Queenscliff. We arrived too late to start that day, so marched-in to our accommodation at the Staff College. Next day the work got under way with all instructions being given by the OC, a Pommy SSGT or the ‘Q’ Corporal. Contact with the girls was fleeting and it soon became obvious, they were instructed not to ‘confabulate!’ Even the mid-day meal prepared by the Lebanese Cpl cook was taken separately . . . . . .‘We were treated like lepers!’ On the final day, the ‘Q’ Cpl ‘sheepishly’ requested we move a pine-wood cupboard, explaining that it contained light stores but the key had been misplaced. ‘Would we please attempt to move it as is?’ It looked suspiciously like we were being ‘conned’ but we sympathised with her discomfort and agreed to try. Titch Cooper (a nuggetty little bugger) grasped the two handles and gave an almighty heave, at which point the whole ‘kit & caboodle’ toppled forward, the doors burst open and knocked him to the floor. It was quickly lifted off him to discover he was sitting, ‘up to his ears in unopened packets of sanitary napkins’. There was a ‘pregnant pause’ then RADIANT RUBY, the Lebanese cook burst into ‘rollicking laughter’ so infectious everyone joined in. . . . . . .Well, you’d hardly believe it, but this embarrassing incident ‘broke the ice’ and friendly conversations immediately commenced. Before the evening meal several of the girls agreed to meet us on the beach after dark for a drink and ‘whatever‘. We arrived with sufficient bottles of ’Ballarat Bertie beer’ and waited. Eventually four girls turned up so the three eldest blokes retired to the boozer. The remainder settled down beneath our greatcoats cuddling with our ‘ardour steadily increasing’ when all of a sudden, the sky fell in dumping buckets of ‘H2O’ on our gathering. The girls ‘beat a hasty retreat’ leaving us disconsolate and our ’expectations’ utterly demolished. Not long after this event WO1 JACK SILK arrived at Southern Command to convert this ’moribund’ unit from its post-war complacency. He was delighted to recognise former BCOF bandsmen like TITCH GLAZNER, MORRIE McKERCHER, TITCH COOPER, KEVIN GAY & MAX LEVIER and it was around this ‘core’ with additional support from LINDSAY WILKINS, GRAEME MILLS, ARTHUR WALTON and LES BULLED, he built a ’crackerjack band’ that other Commands wished to replicate. There may be BCOF bandsmen living in other States who I‘m not aware of, but in my recall, the only survivors are JACK CURTIN & MAX LEVIER 66 Bn (2RAR) and JACK WILSON & MORRIE McKERCHER 67 Bn (3RAR) both of whom are in aged nursing facilities in Adelaide and Mornington Peninsula. I haven’t heard from Jack Curtin for some time, but ‘Uncle Max’ Levier at 86 sounds ‘hale & hearty!’. . . . . .‘Goodonya Max!’ I heard a story recently about a former well known Corps identity who had fallen on hard times. It was an incident which restores ones faith in human nature and without naming names, I pass the event on to our members. This member through bad luck and personal ‘excess’ was ill, broke and unable to arrange homeward transport for his wife who had recently undergone a serious operation at a distant public hospital. Had he contacted St Vinnies or the Sallys, I’m sure they would have had the capacity to help, but possibly due to his state of mind he decided to contact a former muso

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who’d ‘made good’ and was sure to have a ‘quid’. By phone, he made an embarrassing request for the loan of $150. The receiver heard him out and replied . . . . . . “No - But I’ll give you a hundred and fifty bucks!” Well, that certainly let the recipient off the hook and he was able to arrange transport for his wife. It is only hoped the recipient moderates his excesses, gets well and looks after his sick wife in the manner she is entitled. I have personally congratulated the donor and believe all Association members would be ‘proud of this caring benefactor!’ I recently had occasion to send a CD to MAJOR GORDON TURNER MBE, the Editor of the International Military Music Society’s journal in the UK. I was amazed at the ‘form filling’ involved with the simple task of ‘Air Mail’ parcel postage, possibly due to precautions enforced as a result of 9/11. Gordon was interested in ARTHUR GULLIDGE and the ill-fated Band of the 2/22nd Battalion who lost their lives aboard the Montevideo Maru when it was sunk by the US submarine ‘Sturgeon’ off the northern tip of the Philippines as it neared its destination of Hainan Island. The CD was titled ‘Unconquered’ and is a compilation of Gullidge compositions and arrangements performed by various bands including the Black Dyke, International Staff, Melbourne Staff and the Melbourne Veterans Bands. It is hoped that Gordon will include an article on Gullidge in a forthcoming issue of the journal and it is at this juncture, I’m going to make two recommendations to our members. Firstly: Any military musician who is interested in the history of World-wide Service Bands should be a member of the International Military Music Society and receive its excellent periodic journal, which is full of articles, record reviews and coloured pictures of interest. Membership may be obtained through TONY SILLCOCK whose email address is tonysillcock@optusnet.com.au “Come on Australian Service musos, we need good representation in this August Institution!’ Secondly: The CD ‘Unconquered’ would make a valuable addition to any members collection. The arrangements may seem a bit ‘old fashioned’ but the themes, chords, bridge passages and innovative interludes are warm, embracing and often ‘spine-tingling’. Instrumental solos are both inventive, difficult and most enjoyable. The main soloist is BRIAN DAVIES formerly the principal cornet player of the ISB, formerly Bandmaster of Waverley Temple, Camberwell Citadel and currently Melbourne Veterans Band. This CD is available from The Salvation Army Trade Dept and its cost is $20. It may be purchased online. ‘Buy it & enjoy. . . . . . It’s good value’. Having a telephone chat with an ‘old band comrade’ is an enjoyable interlude, but receiving a personal visit is a memorable occasion. About a week ago I received a visit from MARIO TROHA who Southern Command and Northern Command members will remember. Mario was a qualified hair-dresser before his number came up in the National Service ballot. He completed his commitment as a Medical Orderly but shortly after discharge, he re-enlisted in Southern Command Band as a percussionist (and not a bad one at that). In short time, he became one of the most versatile members of the band; its’ barber and a very useful medico using a medical syringe and kidney basins (which happened to fall into his bag at RAAMC) to clean out ear-wax from muso’s ears (a great advantage for aural training). Although Mario’s parents were Slovenian, he was born in Austria as was Mozart and Richard Strauss, the composer of Till Eulenspiegel and his Merry Pranks. Now the reason I mention this fact is due to Mario’s similarity to Till . . . . . . Although I don’t believe he upset the villagers like Till did, but he certainly ‘chased’ the pretty ladies, and I’m pleased to report that at age 68, he still retains an active interest in the ‘fairer sex’. Of course, horn players will be familiar with Till Eulenspiegel as its ‘opening statement’ covers the full compass of the instrument and performers frequently use it to ‘warm-up’. Mario’s corner of the band change room was where he carried out his ‘tonsorial trade’ and like all barber shops was decorated with ‘tasteful art’ and a collection point for blokes discussing ‘football,

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horse-racing and sex’. Other units at Batman Avenue (Artillery & Engineers) knew of his establishment and also gathered to have ‘their ears lowered’. Knowing that I have an interest in military history, he very kindly gave me two coffee table books recently published to commemorate the centenary of WW1. I had four uncles who volunteered for this conflict, the youngest enlisted at 16 years and was just 17 years and 2 weeks old when he was ‘Killed in Action’ on the Somme (38th Infantry Battalion). A second uncle saw action at Gallipoli and France (14th Infantry Battalion & AFA) He was riding postilion on a gun horse when he was KIA by shrapnel - (also on the Somme). A third uncle (5th Infantry Battalion) saw action at Gallipoli and France. He came home a ‘complete and utter froot-loop’ who never held down a regular job for the rest of his life . . . . . . (although, it didn’t affect his ability to prolifically produce prodigy) The fourth survived Gallipoli and France without ill-effect (5th Infantry Battalion), drove trams till retirement, and lived to his mid-80s. As an ‘avid’ viewer of the History Channel on Foxtel, I’ve recently watched several docos on the life and times of the ‘Desert Fox’ FIELD MARSHAL ERWIN ROMMEL who came to grief after being implicated in the attempted assassination of Hitler. In my opinion, he was an honourable soldier who fought by the rules and treated POWs with respect. Of course what followed was the AFRIKA KORPS and recall the thousands of its members who were interned in Australia after GENERAL MONTGOMERY’S success in North Africa. This brought to mind one of the most unusual engagements encountered by Southern Command Band during 10 years as its Drum Major/BSM. There was a large camp of internees at Tatura in the Goulburn Valley and one of its occupants with the strange name of Herr PEXA, escaped, stole a motor cycle and rode it to Sydney where he was promptly recaptured. After the war he was repatriated but as soon as he was able, returned to Australia as a migrant and set up a tourist agency in the Tooronga Village, Glen Iris. During the early 1970s on a visit to Germany for a ‘Korps re-union’, Herr Pexa suggested to members they should visit Australia, with their wives and tour the old camps at Tatura and Loveday, South Australia. Of course, both camps had been demolished, but it seemed a good idea and he had no trouble filling a large aircraft. When he returned to Australia, he wrote to HQ Southern Command and applied for the Band to play for the visitors arrival at Tullamarine Airport and the request was approved. It was a beautiful day and the band paraded in Summer Ceremonial. The band had increased to its maximum strength of 49 members and was playing at its peak under the direction of CAPT COLIN FISCHER. It was assembled in marching formation (6 X 8). The visitors arrived and had not been told of our presence but they excitedly gathered around listening and applauding as the Band played popular items of the day. The atmosphere ‘quickened’ as the visitors recognised ‘Unter den Linden & Alte Kameraden’ but the final item ‘laid them in the aisles’ when the band played ‘Lili Marlene’. The audience response immediately quietened, and observers were ’shattered’ as tough old warriors hugged their wives, while many quietly ‘wept’. This was probably the most ‘poignant’ response to an item of music in my entire experience. Needless to say, the return journey to barracks was considerably subdued. There are various ways that organisations express gratitude for the Band’s performance and may be a simple ‘Thanks’ or on occasions it could be Thank-you and a ‘cold cup of coffee and a slice of stale rainbow cake’. But the most popular and most infrequent was ‘party pies & p---!’ It was already accepted that Herr Pexa was a ‘mover & shaker’ but his ‘gratitude’ surpassed all expectation by inviting the band to a reception at a major city hotel where the visitors were staying. It was a wonderful event which concluded about mid-night. As the Bandsmen departed, they warmly expressed: ‘Thank you - To our friends . . . . . . The enemy!’ and on that note . . . . . HOO-ROO!

….oooOooo….

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NOTE: Should any reader have news or a humorous story to tell, please contact ERN TROTTER, 9 Nash St, Springvale, VIC 3171 PH: (03) 9546-5798 Email: erntro@yahoo.com.au

Lili Marlene

Possibly, the most popular song of WW2 on both sides of the ‘Line’. The lyrics were by a WW1 German soldier HANS LEIP (1883-1983) and the music by NORBERT SCHULTZE. The title was taken from the first names of two former ‘sweet-hearts’. The song was originally broadcast from the Nazi Radio Network in Belgrade, Yugoslavia to the Afrika Korps, but was quickly ‘adopted’ by the British 8th Army and the US 1st Army whose soldiers sung it, with joyous enthusiasm in ‘German’. This was frowned upon by the allied hierarchy who quickly arranged for an English translation to be published. Very soon, it was being sung by all allied troops in gun-pits, tents, barracks, canteens and hospitals. The Nazi Propaganda Minister JOSEPH GOEBBELS was furious when advised of its popularity with the allies and immediately banned it. Rommel disregarded the Minister’s edict and insisted it was recorded daily over Korps transmitters. Goebbels was too late. . . . . . It told the story of a German soldier’s love, his departure for a distant war, the battle and his memories. ‘A song with similar sentiments to any serving soldier’ In due course it was sung/recorded by several top US performers including MARLENE DIETRICH, BING CROSBY & PERRY COMO. The British Servicemens’ sweetheart DAME VERA LYN sang it at every war-time concert she gave and ultimately, it was accepted as a ‘legend war-time song’ by the Commonwealth of Nations . . . . . . .Ern T - 8 Aug 14 Underneath the lantern, by the barrack gate, Darling I remember the way you used to wait, T’was there that you whispered tenderly, That you loved me, you’d always be, My Lili of the lamp-light, My own Lili Marlene. Time would come for role call, Time for us to part, Darling I’d caress you and press you to my heart, And there ‘neath that far off lantern light, I’d hold you tight, We’d kiss good-night, My Lili of the lamplight, My own Lili Marlene. Orders came for sailing somewhere over there, All confined to barracks was more than I could bear; I knew you were waiting in the street, I heard your feet, But could not meet, My Lili of the lamplight, My own Lili Marlene. Resting in a billet, just behind the line, Even though we’re parted, your lips are close to mine, You wait where the lantern softly gleams, Your sweet face seems to hold my dreams, My Lili of the lamplight, My own Lili Marlene. When we are marching in the mud and cold, And when my pack seems more than I can hold, My love for you renews my might, I’m warm again, My pack is light, Its you Lili Marlene, Its You Lili Marlene.

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From the Past

President De GAUL taking the salute as RMC BAND lead an Australian Army Contingent of 150 soldiers and colours for the march on the Champs Elysees, Paris 11 November 1968. 50 years after the end of the First World War. Drum Major WO2 Norm Sheedy. Bandmaster MAJ Jack SILK MBE, both veterans of WW2.

North Queensland Army Band

Editor – Stuart Colhoun

The views and opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the contributors and do not reflect the official position of the AABC Association Incorporated, unless otherwise stated. The Editor reserves the right to decide on the publication of any article or item for any edition of Noteworthy.

Phone: 03 5367 8351 E-Mail: sepmc@iprimus.com.au Mail to: 5 Hammond Circuit HOPETOUN PARK VIC 3340

Noteworthy

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APPENDIX 1

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP OF THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS ASSOCIATION INC.

I, (name)…………………………………………….…, of (address)…………………………………………………………….…………….............. desire to become a member of the Australian Army Band Corps Association Inc. Phone (Bus): ………………..…. Phone (AH): …………………… Mobile: …………..…..…… Email: ……………………………………………………………... Fax: ……………………… Date of Birth: ………………………Spouse/Partner Name: ……………..………………………. . Service No: ……………………. Bands/units served in and dates: ………….……………...….. ………………………………………………………………………………………….………............. In the event of my admission as a member, I agree to be bound by the rules of the Association for the time being in force. ………………………….. ……………………. Signature of Applicant Date

I, (name) ………………………………………….., a member of the Association, nominate the applicant, who is personally known to me, for membership of the Association. …………………………. ……………………. Signature of Proposer Date I, (name) ………………………………………….., a member of the Association, second the nomination of the applicant, who is personally known to me, for membership of the Association. ………………………….. ……………………. Signature of Seconder Date Forward completed application to: Mr Kevin Noon

Hon Secretary AABC Association Inc. 9 Dennis Place JERRABOMBERRA NSW 2619

Office Use: Committee Notified: Date Ratified: Details in Register: Category: Entrance Fee Paid: Annual Subscription Paid: Receipt:

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