Secretary’s Report:

We have 184 current members. Membership Renewals are still coming in for this year and so far we have had 175 renewals with 19 members still to renew. If you have forgotten – OOPS – you are now overdue.

The Anzac Eve Service at the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial was well attended. Peter Mitchell, spoke on a personal level about one of Wollongong’s young men who didn’t come home. He talked about Russell Copeman and his father and grandfather who all served. Russell’s family live on King Island and were not able to attend the service but Mrs Beth Pycroft who has been a long time friend of the family attended on their behalf.

There was a very good turn-out and the weather was sort of OK. The wind was quite cold but at least it didn’t rain. Everyone was invited back to the 4/3 Barracks after the service for supper of pizza and beer, and quite a few attended.

Once again, the Catafalque Party from 4/3 was exceptional, except the soldiers were in summer dress. I was freezing but I suppose our young men and women of the army are a lot fitter than me.

Thank you to the bugler, Mr. Ken Miller. The sound of his bugle resonating in the cold, crisp evening air was a haunting tribute to the fallen. Also, thank you to Mr Alan Groome. He keeps us on our toes with his commanding voice, calling the parade to order.

Several of our members attended the suburban services on the Sunday before Anzac Day and laid wreaths on our behalf. Dawn Services around the region were well attended by our members who also laid wreaths on behalf of the Illawarra Sub Branch.

The Vietnam Veterans led the march in Wollongong this year and it was outstanding to see so many marching under our banner. Some of us then retired to Collegian’s Leagues Club for lunch and a few drinks and several families went as well. It was quite a good turnout.

All in all everyone seemed to have a good time at all the events. Don’t forget to put the dates in your calendar for next year.

TAKE NOTE: The dinner at Kembla Grange Golf Club that was planned for Vietnam Veteran’s Day has been cancelled. The service will now take place at 6:30 PM and we will again assemble at 4/3 Barracks for drinks and a chicken supper.

As usual, call into the office and grab a cuppa if you’re in town and have a few minutes to spare. Bye for now.

Kathy Kielbicki
Honorary Secretary