Vale - Phillip Butterfield

(26 November 2022)

Nyrie Grenda - Butterfield has advised the Association that Phillip Frances Butterfield passed away on 22 Nov 2022

Phil was a member of the 24A Class at the Army Apprentice School and served in a number of bands including the RAA Band - Singleton, RAAC Band, 3MD Band, 4MD Band, 1RTB Band and AAB Sydney during his time in the Army. Phil was also a member of the tri-service Australian Defence Force Band that performed at the Royal Tournament in London in 1987 and  completed the full tour of Australia as a member of the Band Squadron during Army Tattoo 1988.

Phil is remembered as one of the characters of the Corps. RIP.

Vale - Ralph Newman

(3 September 2022)

It is with sad heart that I let everyone know that Ralph Newman (22A Class) passed away suddenly this morning, 3 September. Ralph was a very proud member of the Magnificent Seven, the 22A Apprentice Musician class.

A Celebration of Life for Ralph will be on Saturday, 8 October 2022. It will be held between 11am-4pm, at 3 Gregory Crescent, Lake Albert, Wagga Wagga. RSVP: Belinda Fredericks 0432 336 178 or bndunited02@gmail.com. A contribution of a plate of finger food to share would be valued.

Note: Parking may be difficult on the street so you can park a street down at the oval, where a walkway goes through to Gregory Crescent or up at the Foodworks car park further up Gregory Crescent. If anyone can't attend and wants to share a message/memory/story to be read out, could you please send it through to Ralph's daughter Belinda.

We welcome you to come and share memories, stories, to laugh, to cry and to remember Ralph who will be greatly missed.

Ruth, Veronica and Belinda.

Vale - Glenda Duyzer

(29 August 2022)

The Association has received news Dirk Duyzer's wife Glenda has passed away. There will be a private family cremation.

For those who would like to attend, there will be a Celebration of Life service for Glenda held at the The Salvation Army Stafford, 32-54 Hayward Street Stafford, QLD, Tuesday, 6 September 2022 at 2pm.

Vale - Vivian John (Viv) Littlewood

(20 August 2022)

A former member of Kapooka (RAE) Band passed away at Caloola Court Nursing Home on Monday 15 August 2022, aged 92 years. Viv was well known around the region as a clarinet and saxophone player.

A Service of Thanksgiving will be held in the Karinya Room of Bance Funeral Services, 12 Ashmont Avenue, Wagga Wagga on Monday 29th August 2022 commencing at 10.30am. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.

Public guest book

Vale - Ernest Liddiard

(20 August 2022)

Ernest Liddiard, who was a member of the first intake of Band Boys (7th Intake) and a veteran of the Malayan Emergency passed away on 17 August 2022.

RIP

Vale - Laurie Young

(22 July 2022)

I am sad to inform our members that we have lost another fine character from within our ranks: Major Laurie Young, OAM (retd) who passed away on Wednesday, 20 Jul 2022. The Association offers sincere condolences to Judy and Laurie's extended family. May he rest in peace.

Funeral Details for MAJ Laurie Young, OAM (Retd): Tuesday, 2 August 2022. 1300 hrs.
The Salvation Army Stafford, 32/54 Hayward Street. Stafford Qld.
Current and ex-service personnel are requested to wear medals.

For those of you wishing to watch Laurie Young's funeral please see the following link and info. The funeral commences 1pm.
The livestream will appear on the "Salvation Army Stafford Church" youtube page once the stream is started.
Please click this link https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYpp0sKgPt2L03idSJZCAyg as there is another channel with a similar name. The livestream will usually commence 10-15 minutes before the meeting. If the livestream isn't showing you might need to refresh your web browser page closer to the meeting start time. If you miss the start you can either watch from when you join, or rewind and watch from an earlier point.

John Franklin

Major Laurie Young digital story from State Library of Queensland on Vimeo

Vale - Barry Pemberton

(21 July 2022)

Barry Pemberton passed away on 20 July 2022. Barry served in 2RAR Band at Enoggera, 5RAR Band at Holsworthy and in Vietnam as a musician/stretcher bearer. Upon returning from Vietnam Barry was posted to the Armoured Corps Band at Puckapunyal. RIP Barry. Your duty done.

Jack Curtis

The funeral for Barry Pemberton will be held at 11am on Tuesday 2nd August 2022 at the Holy Spirit Parish, Cnr Todd Row & Moore St, St Clair NSW 2759. Followed by burial at Springwood Cemetery, Springwood with details provided at the service. All attendees are then welcome to join the family at the Royal Hotel, 220 Macquarie Rd, Springwood NSW. - Supplied by Gary Townsend, 5RAR Membership Officer/Tiger Tales Editor

Vale - Fred Gfeller

(15 June 2022)

With a heavy heart I report the passing of Fred Gfeller, aged 95 on the 2nd of June 2022.

Fred was a well respected and liked member of the Regular Army Band, fondly remembered for his ‘Swiss pipe’ when smoking was the ordinary thing in the 50’s and 60’s. He was proud of his military service, having immigrated to Sydney as a young man just as World War Two was concluding and having seen firsthand the devastations in Europe and the effects on his family. A devoted family man and very good tuba player, with an eye for administrative and military good order, he was selected for promotion and served as a chief clerk and drum major.

Honoured with life membership of the City of Perth Brass Band he continued to devote many years of brass playing well after his Army service and was also an active member of his local RSL. Rest In Peace Fred.

The funeral service for Fred was held at Pinnaroo, 10:30am Monday 20th June. Fred's daughter Christine has supplied a link to the recording of the service https://livestream.com/accounts/29446702/events/10487973

Bob Keatch

Vale - Michael Leach

(1 June 2022)

Michael Leach passed away after a long illness on Monday 24th May. Michael served many years with the 5MD Band after following service with the British Grenadier Guards Band. As a young man Michael had a desire to play clarinet in an Army band however at the time the Australian Army bands were still brass bands. With connections in the UK, Michael flew to London and enlisted. When the Australian Army converted to military bands and Mike had completed his engagement in the UK, he returned to Perth and joined up. At one point during the 1980’s during his time in 5MD Band Michael was seconded to the Army School of Music (DFSM) as a clarinet instructor and also spent some time as a member of Army Band Melbourne.

Mike was a cheerful character and always fun to be around. Clean living family man with a strong Christian faith and dedicated to his art of clarinet playing, continuing after his military career and teaching the clarinet to school students.

Sadly gone and never forgotten. A wonderful man.

Bob Keatch

Michael's family have requested a private funeral which will be held Saturday 4th June. RIP

Vale - Alex Marshall

(28 May 2022)

On 26 May 2022 Alex Marshall passed away peacefully after a battle with cancer. Alex was a 33rd Class Apprentice Musician who had a long career in the AABC, both as a full time and part time member. RIP

The funeral for Alex is Friday 10 June at 12.30pm (Perth time). Norfolk Chapel, Karrakatta Cemetery, Perth.

For those who can not make funeral this is the link for the live webcast - https://livestream.com/accounts/27566542/events/10466396

Vale - Gerry Hayes

(15 May 2022)

Gerry's son Brenton has passed on the news Gerry passed away on 14th May 2022 after losing his battle with pancreatic cancer.

Gerry was a great bloke who was very well known throughout the AABC. He will be remembered for many, many things, as we will no doubt read over the next few days, but one of the best memories of Gerry l have in recent times was his heartfelt video proposal for Bendigo to be considered as the 2019 venue for the Association reunion. It was a cracker, had the room in stitches and should have won an Academy Award.

RIP my good friend, l and many others will miss you. A funeral service will be held 9.30am Monday, 23 May 2022 at the Great Southern Memorial Park, 1774-1794 Mt. Cotton Road, Carbrook. The service will be live streamed. The link and login details below.

Live streaming video link - Login page: https://www.oneroomstreaming.com/login

Enter the following information:
Email - jake@sovereignfunerals.com.au
Password - 9MYQ8G

A wake will be held at the Greenbank RSL 12-4pm, 54 Anzac Avenue, Hillcrest 4118.

John Franklin

Vale - Jim (Spider) McBride

(15 May 2022)

Chris Stock has advised that a true character of the Corps, Jim 'Spider' McBride passed away on 14th May 2022.

I only met Spider very early on in my career, and only then for a very short time. It was obvious though at that meeting that he was integral to the fabric of the band. RIP Spider, job done down here, make 'em laugh up there.

Gordon Lambie

Update-The funeral for Jim 'Spider' McBride is at 11:00am Friday 27 May at St Mary's Catholic Church Spotswood, and then after at the Newport RSL. For those in Melbourne that are able to make it, please pass around through your own local networks to try and capture all of those that may have served at Batman Avenue with Spider.

Vale - Jim Dempsey

(15 May 2022)

Jim Dempsey, a stalwart of the South Australian band community and former principal trumpet Adelaide Symphony Orchestra passed away 8th May 2022.

Jim was a National Service bandsman who served in Northern Command Band in the early 1970s.

http://www.sabandassociation.org/jim-dempsey.html

Newsletter / Database - Personal Address Details - Reminder

(3 Apr 2020)

Association Database Manager Dave Oakley reminds the membership that despite requesting association members to confirm their current Email addresses he says he still had many emails and Newsletters returned.  For those who have changed their address, Email details or your phone/mobile number please contact  Dave to advise him of the change/s.  Dave says if you are unsure if he has all your correct details contact him as he is happy to check the details he has with you. 

Dave's Email address is: sodaveo@kern.com.au or phone: 0438 951 738.

Noteworthy - The Association's Newsletter

Due to the rising costs to produce the Associations Newsletter it was decided at the 2016 AGM that the association would send out the next and consequent Newsletters (Anzac & Corps Birthday editions) electronically (via Email) to our members.  We acknowledge that not everyone of our members have access to Email or doesn't even have a computer, and those members will be sent the Newsletter by mail. 

Dave Oakley, our Database Manager has forwarded a 'test' Email to those members who have provided an Email address together with their details to confirm that the members Email address is correct.  Those members without an Email address will be sent the Newsletter by mail.

 Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Promotion - LTCOL Daniel Hiscock

(21 Nov 2016)

Association member MAJ Daniel Hiscock was promoted to LTCOL on Fri 18 Nov 2016 by MAJGEN Gus McLachlan, Head of Modernisation and Strategic Planning - Army, in preparation for his attendance on the Pre-Command Course at the end of November.  Daniel was accompianed by his wife Ceinwen at the promotion ceremony.  Daniel will take up his appointment as CO Defence Force School of Music (DFSM) in January 2017.

On behalf of the President and members of the AABC Association we congratulate Daniel on his promotion, which is well deserved.

Major Peter Grant, OAM

(13 Jun 2016)

Congratulations Major Peter Grant, OAM on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Queen's Birthday Honours List 2016. 

Citation reads: Major Peter Edward GRANT, Victoria. For meritorious service as the Officer Commanding and Music Director of the Australian Army Band - Kapooka and the Australian Army Band - Melbourne, and as the Staff Officer Grade Two Reserve Training at the Defence Force School of Music.

Major Grant has displayed outstanding leadership, and professional commitment as the Officer Commanding and Music Director of the Australian Army Bands Kapooka and Melbourne. He has made a significant and enduring contribution to the advancement of music training at the Defence Force School of Music. His efforts are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Australian Army and the Australian Defence Force.

Repatriation of Soldiers

(11 Mar 2016)

Association member Bob Keatch writes... On 8 Jan 1966 Musician/Private Mervyn Wilson and Rifleman/Private Drummer Chris Clark, both members of The 1st Battalion Royal Australian Regiment Band were killed in action during 'Operation CRIMP' by sniper fire at close range in 'Ho Bo Woods' doing what they had been trained to do as ‘Stretcher-bearer/Medics’.    This fire-fight engagement of the enemy proved the exact location of the underground headquarters and other elements of the enemy known as the ‘Chu Chi Tunnels’.   Details of fire-fight.

Their bodies were buried in Malaysia soon after this tragedy.   

After many appeals and advocating the return to Australian soil of a large number of Australian soldiers buried in Malaysia during the early part of the Vietnam War the Federal Government has now negotiated and actioned this to occur on 2nd of June with firstly a Ramp Ceremony and subsequent burials at Sydney’s Rookwood Cemetery for Mervyn Wilson and Canberra for Chris Clark on a date TBA. 

Major Kevin Klein, Retd - 80th Birthday Surprise

(1 Mar 2015)

WO1 John Franklin reports that during a recent visit to Bundaberg The Band of the 1st Regiment RAA paid a surprise visit to retired member MAJ Kevin Klein's place, marching up his driveway and lopping on his front lawn to the strains of 'The Minstrel Boy'.  After playing 'Happy Birthday' to Kevin, who turned 80 a few weeks ago (and to the Australian Army, who turned 114 on 1 March) Kevin was handed the baton by the Bandmaster, WO1 Simon Renfrey and he proudly conducted 'Army March'.  It was clearly evident that he was pleased and surprised to see us and he greatly enjoyed the experience.  Kevin has been ill for some time and this visit by the Band certainly lifted his spirits reports WO1 John Franklin.

The association pass on their thoughts and best wishes to Kevin.

Australian Army Band 46th Birthday (2 Aug 2014)

On behalf of the President and members of the AABC Association we wish all serving and ex members of the Corps a Happy 46th Birthday.  This is an appropriate time to reflect on the many achievements and milestones the Corps has been responsible for over the past 46 years.  It is also a time to pause and remember all of those members who lost their lives in conflict and those who passed away over the past year. RIP.

A toast... 'The Corps'

2013 AABC Association Reunion Hobart - Interim Report (22 Oct 2013)

The 2013 AABC Association Reunion was held in Hobart during the period Fri 18 Oct - Sun 20 Oct 2013. The interim report, AGM report, President's report and CO AAB report can be found on the Reunions page.

Australian Army Band off to Basel Tattoo (11 Jul 2014)

Commanding Officer of Australian Army Band, LTCOL Gordon Lambie reports that permanent and reserve members from the 11 sub units of the Australian Army Band spanning the breadth of the continent have been drawn together for a return performance at the 2014 Basel Tattoo in Switzerland.  Led by MAJ Daniel Hiscock, the show will feature music skillfully re crafted by SGT's Cameron Earl and Greg Peterson for this occasion.  Precision drill, iconic Australian tunes, and the stunning vocal talents of our exciting singers are our hallmark, with maybe just a hint of that endearing Australian larrikinism thrown in!  The band departed on 12 Jul 2014 and had their first performance on Mon 14 Jul 2014.  The band returned home on Mon 28 Jul after completing 20 shows.

Performing in excess of 2000 engagements each year, our the Australian Army Band is kept extremely busy with commitments and significant tasking in support of the Australian Defence Force’s ceremonial and community engagement program in Australia, particularly as we count down to the commemorative activities planned to mark the occasion of Centenary of Anzac. The release of members to partake in the Tattoo has therefore placed an additional burden on those members remaining at home to maintain the support to our regular customers and that effort is acknowledged in this forum.

Seeking Information - Ivan Luby

Could any former members of RMC Band who worked with the late Ivan Luby please help with the request below:
My name is Stephen Luby, son of Corporal Ivan Luby (ret) (Dec). I  am writing in reference to some information and in regards to some photos or memorabilia that people may have of my father whilst he served at Duntroon as a bandsman.  I believe that my late father may be the longest serving non commisioned officer that has served as a bandsman at Duntroon from 1960-1982.   My late father has received postumously the ADM, the DFSM with two clasps, an additional clasp to his National Medal that he was awarded in 1977 and the anniversary of National Service Medal after when he passed away on 11/11/2000.  There is some information on dad at the golf club at  Duntroon.  Back in the 1970s dad won numerous what was called the  "Nimmo  Pot"  championships as a golfer.    If you have any questions regarding this then you can  please contact me on this e-mail  (stephenluby@hotmail.com) or alternatively on 0428 779 594.
Yours Sincerely
Stephen Luby

Memorial Questionnaire.

To speed things up members may return their completed Memorial questionnaire to Neville Lloyd via e-mail. Address is pamnev@dcsi.net.au   Look forward to your returns.

For those who haven't seen the Army Band Memorial concepts please follow the link below to view them and also to the concepts questionaire. (Both PDF files)

Army Band Memorial Concepts

Army Band Memorial Questionaire

Army Band Memorial Questionaire (MS Word version)

MAJGEN A.L. Morrison DSO MBE

Alby Morrison passed away last night, Thursday 8 May, aged 80.  He was a great supporter of RMC band, attending concerts up until recently.  As COMDT RMC-A he opened the Colin Fischer Band Centre in 1979. His funeral is a private affair, with a memorial service at the ANZAC Memorial Chapel of St Paul, Duntroon at 1500hrs Wed 14 May 08.

ABC1 - Sunday 20th April 9.25pm - The story of Arthur Gullidge and the 2/22nd Battalion Band

John Cleary presents a documentary on the Brunswick Salvation Army Band. Cleary tells the little known story of music maestro Arthur Gullidge and his Brunswick band that went on to become the 2/22nd Battalion Band. Keenly sought for the war efforts, the men doubled as medical aids and were sent to Rabaul. Sadly, all but one of the men perished when the Japanese attacked. Survivor Fred Kollmorgen reflects on the men's contribution.

For those who missed this program it will be shown again.
Compass - A Story Of The Salvos 6:00pm Friday, 25 Apr 2008  ABC2

The transcript from the program can be found at http://www.abc.net.au/compass/s2223078.htm

Queen's Birthday Honours List - Laurie Young, OAM

(9 Jun 2014)

The AABC Association congratulates Laurie Young OAM, association member and past Officer Commanding AABA and AABB  on his award of the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) (general division) in the 2014 Queen's Birthday Honours List.  The citation reads:

Major Laurence James Young (Retd), Bracken Ridge Qld.  For service to the community through the military and civilian band movements. 

AABC Association Award - Student of Merit (8 Dec 2013)

The Defence Force School of Music has advised that the winner of the 2013 AABC Association Student of Merit Award, from the recently completed DFSM Group Leader Course is CPL Andrea Clifford of AAB-S.  The Association congratulates Andrea on her award.

AABC 45th Birthday - Message From LTCOL Gordon Lambie

45 years on, yet another review, but here we are, still punching out crotchets for Army.  As you would all now be aware, our AABC Bands sit within Army Headquarters, under command Director General Army Operations, Brigadier Graeme Finney OAM.  On this our 45th birthday, I thought it fitting to theme my message to all, and what better way to start than quoting an extract from Brigadier Finney's opening address to last week's AABC Corps Conference:

"My time as COMDT at ARTC, while certainly not being my first exposure to our bands confirmed in no uncertain terms the value of a band within a community, be it military or otherwise.  In both a strategic and immediate sense, the pathways forged by our bands into a community assist commanders in achieving an effect not generally achievable by any other single asset.   Whether in current conflict or preparing for the next, winning the hearts and minds of a community, and revitalising the souls of our soldiers are two of the greatest challenges facing commanders; our bands lead the way in this regard.  In you, Army has a collective ambassador, both domestically and abroad.  You are regularly providing individuals to the significant commemorative events around the world, and more recently representing en masse at Tattoos in Basel Tonga, and Edinburgh.  We are hosting an international Band in September this year in a joint effort with China.  Performing in Canberra and Sydney this concert series will form the main effort in a broader ADF / PLA military and cultural exchange, and the CO has just returned from a reconnaissance of Basel in preparations for possible attendance at that event next year.  Throw into that mix the band support provided to PAMS and Gallipoli last year and you'll agree your representational role over the past year or so has been significant.  In reinvigorating the support to deployed forces, ACAAP, and major exercises domestically, and by contributing to initiatives like the ADF Theatre project, you soon start to realise the requirement Army has of you."

As we enter our 46th year, it is with some sense of loss that we wave farewell to our 45th year, a year that will be the last for the Corps in its current shape, a shape that has served Army well since Vietnam and beyond.  As keen as this sense of loss may be however, it is with a renewed sense of anticipation that we now head into our 46th year, a new shape bursting with reinvigorated capabilities and opportunities.  The contemporary model and all of the new recent shiney equipment are obvious changes, but the singular most exciting aspect I'm noticing as I get around to the bands is the core of very talented and motivated young folk that are present in the bands; take a moment right now to reflect on those you've come into contact with recently and you'll know of whom I speak!   These younger gen folk, although aware of the bands as they were and respect what once was, are keen to meet today's Army and industry expectations, it's their time.  I'm not suggesting the rest of us are dinosaurs, far from it.  It pleased me no end at last week's AABC conference to note the very positive manner with which all participants approached the week and the future direction of the AAB, I concongratulate them all sincerely for getting over the hump, not an easy task!

Like many of you I expect, the Headquarters will be taking an early mark today to join with our local Band, RMC Band in our case, in celebrating our birthday.  Enjoy the day with friends, noting the significance of the day to the AABC.  Occasions such as these highlight our esprit de corps, an intangible asset that has assisted us greatly in meeting recent challenges and setting the conditions for a bright future.

Happy Birthday AABC.

Gordon Lambie, CSM
Lieutenant Colonel
Commanding Officer
Australian Army Band

I & K Music - Quality Brass and Woodwind Instruments (25 Jul 2013)

If any of the members are interested in purchasing a new instrument for themselves, a family member or student, you may be interested in a company in Melbourne that produce hand crafted instruments that represent quality and unprecedented value for money.  The company is called I & K Music. I was recently advised by association members who had purchased an instrument/s from the company that they were extremely pleased with their purchase and highly recommend I & K Music to you.  The I & K Music website has details of each instrument with prices.  When you view a particular instrument on the website it lists a sale price also, which in most cases is half the advertised price.  I'm sure you will be pleasantly surprised! The website address is: www.iandkmusic.com.au 

Commemoration Services (Brisbane) (21 Jul 2013)

Australian Army Band Corps Association members who are veteranms of the following campaign are invited to attend the Commemoration of the 47th Anniversary of the Indonesian Confrontation with Malaysia and the Commemoration of the 53rd Anniversary of the Malayan Emergency to be held at 1030h, Sat 31 August 2013, at the RAR Memoral Walk, Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera.  Drerss: Coat, tie and medals.  RSVP: 25 Aug 2013 to kody@oneseniors.com.au 

Mastering the Foundations of Music launched (5 Jul 2013)

The Graham Lloyd Music Education Mastering the Foundations of Music package meets all your students’ music theory needs in 20 easy to watch video lessons that are delivered online!
The easiest, and most thorough, music theory training method around. There are no other music theory courses as unique as the Graham Lloyd Music Mastering the Foundations of Music package ANYWHERE! Getting started right away is so easy...  Click now: http://www.grahamlloydmusiceducation.com/  

Defence Force School of Music (DFSM) Graduation Day (5 Jul 2013)

The DFSM Graduation Day was held at the school on Wed 19 Jun 2013 where a number af awards were presented, one of which was the Senior Instructor's Award, which is proudly sponsored by the AABC Association. The recipient of the award was Muscian Nathan Moore from the Australian Army Band Melbourne.  Nathan joined the Australian Army later in life and is an outstanding musician who brings with him a breadth of not only performing experience, but also life skills and has a bright future in the Corps. Congratulations Nathan.

Balcombe Barracks Commemoration - Letter of Appreciation (22 May 2013)

A letter of appreciation from Dr Michae Kennedy (CEO Mornington Pennisula Shire) has been received regarding the recent Balcombe Barracks Commemoration weekend and passed on the Council's appreciation for all the pre-work on the interpretive boards and plaques required of those organisations involved in the lead up to the event. He says the feedback he's received from the weekend has been overwhelming.  The planning and delivery of such a large event is never an easy task, but everyone involved deserves congratulations on a job well done. He also wished the Apprentice Association all the very best for the future.

AABK History Exhibition (14 May 2013)

On behalf of the AABC Association I wish to congratulate the Museum of the Riverina, Historical Council Chambers site, Wagga Wagga for their excellent exhibition of 'The History of the AABK, Instrumental in Defence', the display running from Fri 1 Mar and closed on Sun 5 May 2013. Thank you to all those people who helped make this display possible.  I'm advised by the curator Jeni Bradley-Cahalan that the exhibition was well attended during its duration and that lots of interest was shown by the people of Wagga Wagga, school children and visitors to the region. I visited the museum last month and was impressed by the extensive exhibition of memorabilia, historical photographs and stories, which covered the history of the Australian Army Band Kapooka (AABK), formally known as the Kapooka Band, Royal Australian Engineers Band, Royal Australian Signals Band and the 1st Recruit Traning Battalion Band. Congratulations!

Balcombe Barracks Commemoration (3 - 5 May) Report (7 May 2013)

An extremely sucessful Balcombe Commemoration reunion was held on Fri 3 May - Sun 5 May 2013 with a large attendance of ex apprentices and members who served at Balcombe during the forties up to the early eighties of the last century.  Congratulations must go out to the Australian Army Apprentice School Association (AAAA) working committee, other involved Corps associations, the Mornington Council and the Balcombe Grammar School for their hard work and valuable support over the past 12 months to arrange and conduct such an outstanding historical event. Nearly five hundred ex-apprentices and thier partners attended the Meet and Greet held at the Mornington Racing Club on the Friday, catching up and renewing friendships with former colleagues from the Apprentice School, School of Signals, School of Survey and the Army School of Music.
On Saturday the Balcombe Grammar School hosted a ceremony of re-dedication of the old Balcombe Gates and plaques. This also included the dedication of of new Plaques, Plinths and Balcombe History Story Boards (6). The plaques and Story Boards have now been relocated to the old site of the Apprentice School Parade Ground along with plaques and a special Story Board relating to the US 1st Marine Division, who were located at Balcombe on R&R during the mid forties.  A Reunion Dinner was held on Saturday evening where those attending were seated on their respective 'Class' tables.
Early Sunday morning a Commemoration Service was held in the beautifully kept Mornington War Memoral park. Prior to the service approximately 400 plus ex-apprentices marched up through the City of Mornington finishing at the park. Under the direction of Major Glen Rogers the Australian Army Band Melbourne supported the march and the Commemoration Service. Following the service morning tea was served at the Dava Hotel, a favorite afternoon tea and supper venue for the young apprentices under training and for those undergoing courses at Balcombe.
If you are an ex Apprentice or someone who may have served at Balcombe on staff or trained there and are interested in the long and distinquised history of Balcombe Barracks, please take the time to visit the site. I recommend a visit to the Balcombe Gates site to you!
Photographs of the weekend's events will be placed on the site as they come to hand. A great weekend!
Secretary

Federation Star Presentations (11 Dec 2012)

LTCOL Gordon Lambie, (DMusic-A) reported from Canberra that on Mon 10 Dec 2012 two recipients of the AABC, WO1 Geoff Carter (ex AAB-D) and WO2 Dave Walker (ex AAB-N) were presented their 40 and 50 year Federation Stars respectively by the Chief of Army in his chambers at Russel Offices during the sitting of this month's CASAC meeting. Gordon says both recipients received their awards in a simple, but poignant ceremony in the presence of their wives and most of the Australian Army's Generals. On behalf of the AABC Association we congratulate both Geoff and Dave on this significant achievment and for their dedication to the AABC.

International Military Music Society (IMMS) April 2011 Newsbrief (2011)
IMMS Newsbrief

CASAC and the future of AABC Bands (2011)

The AABC Honorary Colonel and DMUS-A presented the paper, 'Remediation of Establishment Hollowness, AABC', to CASAC on Thursday 7 April 2011. After consideration CASAC agreed to adopt all recommendations contained within the paper. For more information.... 

The place is certainly roomier than our previous "granny flat" in Broadford.  We had problems there when the owner of that property (a golfing friend) sold the house to a young family with a whole lot of kids and animals.  Our younger son's girlfriend's dog ate one of the new owner's cats (well, had a good nibble of it, with a vet's bill for the girlfriend of about $700), and shortly after that there were mysterious things happening to the power and TV reception, so we took the hint and moved out into the new house.

Cheryle, the boys and I would like to gratefully thank the many readers of the News Updates who have lent their support to us, and to the Lloyd family too, following Black Saturday.    The AABC family has always been a tight knit group, and we have seen further evidence of this over the past 17 months or so.   

The house is on the same site, at 224 Clonbinane Road, Clonbinane, and is about 5 minutes from the Clonbinane exit on the Hume Freeway (or 35 minutes from the Western Ring Road, to Melbourne's north).   If you are passing by,  come in for a cuppa (or something stronger, depending on the position of the yard-arm).  You might want to call (03) 5787 to see if we are home first.  With any luck Telstra will have organised the phone service for us by the time any of you get the chance to come out here (after all, I've spent about 5 hours on the phone to them already!  But THAT'S another story.)

Eric Andersen

Dedicated to commemorate Australian Army soldier musicians who served in war and who made the supreme sacrifice in the defence of Australia. Unveiled by Major General B.A. Power AM. CSC. - 28 Nov 2008

This was conducted on 28 Nov with the memorial dedication followed by a concert held at the Defence Force School of Music. A report was published in the Christmas edition of Noteworthy News and photos have now been added to the website. 
Images can now be seen on the AABC Memorial Page

First I would like to thank all members who have made a donation and also purchased raffle tickets. We raised just over $32.000.00 which included a grant of $4,000.00 from DVA and a very special thank you to Norm Austin who donated $10,000.00 and to others who also made generous donations. As all work had to go to civilian contractors the cost of The Memorial has blown out from $30,000.00 to over $36.000.00.  We would not have been able to have the Memorial built without the help of Norm and others.  Thank you.

Jim Harper
(Scrooge McShad)

AABC 40th Anniversary Messages

From Honorary Colonel AABC Brigadier Ian Hearn AO

To all members of the Australian Army Band Corps, ARA and ARES,  I extend my heartiest congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of the 40th birthday of the Corps.  
The bands of the AABC are extremely high-profile, and fulfil a most important role in the Army.  This  encompasses not only the more traditional functions relating to 'ceremonial' and 'entertainment', but also includes 'assisting in developing the positive public image of the Army'.  That the members of the Corps are able to do this is directly attributable to your sense of duty and your very high standard of musical ability.  
At this time of year, I also wish to send best wishes to those past members of the Corps who will attend the  AABC Association re-union on the Sunshine Coast this weekend.    It is these past members who laid the foundation for what exists today.  
I look forward to joining the Canberra-based celebrations of the AABC, which will be attended by both present and past members of the Corps.
Best wishes to you all
 
Ian Hearn AO
Brigadier
Honorary Colonel AABC

From Patron of AABC Association Brigadier J.J. Shelton DSO, MC

The last 40 years has seen some tremendous changes in the Band Corps. Probably the biggest change was the introduction of female soldier musicians. More recently the opportunity to serve in overseas deployments has added to the Corps' credits. Over the past 40 years the Corps has consistently maintained a very high standard on parade. Off parade, the range of music encompassed by the Corps has expanded to meet society's changing musical tastes. Congratulations to all Corps members past and present.

Regards
Jim Shelton

Seeking Information

Can anybody help with identifying the band in the attached photo? The back is inscribed with .our band coming over on the boat.. Are you able to shed some light? Please contact Kevin Noon if you can help.
(Click on image to enlarge)

Seeking Information
I am a member of the RAAOC Association (QLD), and have been contacted today by the secretary of the Association, a lady called Dawn Durrand. The Assn is trying to assist his widow by getting some sort of pension ( through DVA I assume.)  they need to find someone who served with this fellow in band days. His name was Richard ( Dick or Hank ) Hankinson,  - he was Ordnance in 1975, so his band days would have been earlier than that.

Can you help? - 32nd Class Apprentices
Hi all,
Michael Gojan writes....I was wondering if anyone can assist me, I am trying to organise an 11 platoon 32nd Class reunion and cannot locate the following ex band members. I was hoping that you might have contact details for the following people:

319702 Ian Leslie McNiece
174551 Matthew Terrence Ryan
225671 Vernon Mark Thelning
225672 Geoffrey Donald Wilson

Your assistance in this matter would be appreciated.
Kind regards,
Michael Gojan
MICHAEL'S MUSIC
        07 5449 1362              
        0417 650 596       
www.michaelsmusic.id.au

Reunion - 24th Class Intake of Apprentices
The 24 intake of Army Apprentices are holding a reunion in 2007 and we have lost contact with our bandsmen:
1. 1202431  Frank Bond
2. 45076 I    Van Davis
3. 56053      P Andrews
4. 373592    P. F. Butterfield
5. 62090      R. F. Gourlay
6. 219601    Marshall
7. 56052      R. B. Partyka
8. 1202790  G. I. Trudgeon

If anyone can help with their location it would be greatly appreciated.

Wayne Voss  
"Voss, Wayne" WayneV@PHM.GOV.AU

Help Required (12 Nov 05)
Major Graham Lloyd received a letter recently together with a photo requesting information on a 'Ralf Williamson', who appears in the picture.  If you have any information that might help please contact the DFSM and relay your information.  Copy of the original letter below:

Hi Sir    ( click here to see photo )

My grandfather (Ralph Williamson centre back row) was in the AIF and served in PNG behind enemy lines. I've seen other photos of him at Puckapunyal so this one may be in the same area. We think it was taken in around 1942. That's about all I know unfortantely. Any other info would be much appreciated as none of his family know much about his time in the army.
Thank you very much.

Lorelei I. Williamson
Musician
Defence Force School of Music
Simpson Barracks MACLEOD VIC 3085

Balcombe Barracks Commemoration - Reunion Dinner (3 Apr 13)

The Balcombe Barracks Commemoration (3 May through to 5 May 2013) is fast approaching and with reports from the organising committee they indicate that there is quite a lot of interest in the weekend and expect a large attendance.  I have received a number of enquiries about having a Corps table at the Reunion Dinner being held on the Saturday evening at the Morning Racing Club commencing at 5.30pm for 6.30pm.  Without numbers from the association, serving Corps members or from any ex bandies that might be attending, its difficult to organise a table/s. To that end if you are attending could you please advice me, the Secretary on 0414 313 566  if you are going to the dinner on Saturday and I'll do my best to arrange a table/s for us. I hope to see you there to celebrate this significant occasioin.

Attention Paul McDonald (former member of RAAC Band) (1 Apr 13)

Paul McDonald was recently enquiring about the whereabouts of John O'Carrol who resides in Tasmania. Request Paul contact the Secretary regarding John O'Carol's address. Ph: 0414 313 566.

Federation Star Award - WO2 Fank Daly (30 Mar 13)

The AABC Association congratulates WO2 Frank Daly on his recent award of the Federation Star for forty years service to the Australian Amy. The Chief of Army presented the award.

Sons of ANZAC's Vietnam Memorial Tour - 2015 (28 Mar 13)

In 2015 the centennial of the landing at Anzac Cove will be commemorated and coincidentally a significant anniversary for Vietnam Veterans, being 50 years since the deployment of the first battle group. That deployment went on to last 10 years.  To commemorate this fact 'Mat McLaughlan Battle Field Tours' and Gary McDonald (Retd) a prolific author and historian on Vietnam will be tour leaders and lecturers at the sites of Australia's major engagements. Further details of this tour will appear in the next issue of 'Noteworthy', the assoiciation's newsletter. The website address for information is: http://battlefields.com.au/index.php/tours/69. The tour can be found there with contact information.

The Australian Army Band Kapooka (AAB-K) Exhibition (26 Mar 2013)
Ms Jenni Bradley-Cahalan, curator from the museum of the Riverina, Wagga Wagga has advisede that the exhibition called 'Instrumental in Defence' - The Australian Army Band Kapooka (AABK) opened on Fri 1 Mar 2013 at the Museum of the Riverina, Historic Council Chambers site, Cnr of Baylis & Morrow Streets. The exhibition mainly focuses on the current musicians at AABK, whilst briefly introducing the role of the AABK within the Army and the community.  Jenni says part of the exhibition includes memories from the past of former or retired AABK members, including those who served in the Kapooka Band, Royal Australian Engineers (RAE) Band and the 1st Recruit Training Battalion (1 RTB) Band througout the fifties, sixties and seventies. Jenni says whatever has been submitted she will be handwritten into a blank diary/bounded book to allow the audience to read through. If you have any questions regarding the exhibition phone Jenni on: 02 6926 9655.

Opening Times:

Tue to Sat (10am - 5pm). Sun (12noon - 4pm).
Closed Mondays...
Note: Free Entry...
Contact:
Jenni Bradley-Cahalan
Museum Project Officer (Temporay)
Email: Bradley-Cahalan.Jenni@wagga.nsw.gov.au
Phone: 02 6926 9655

Balcombe Barracks Commemoration 2013 Update (26 Mar 2013)

The Australian Army Apprentices’ Association (AAAA) is hosting a significant event in Mornington, Victoria over the weekend of Friday 3 May through to Sunday 5 May 2013. The weekend is open to all former members of units and civilian personnel that served at Balcombe Barracks, which includes Army Apprentices, Signals Corps, Survey Corps, Army School of Music, US Marines, WRAAC and any staff. The weekend will feature:

•Friday 3 May - 'Meet and Greet' - Mornington Racing Club (2.00pm - 7.00pm).
•Saturday 4 May - Balcombe Barracks Commemoration - A formal presentation, including unveiling of plaques and storyboards will be held at the old camp site telling the history of the Balcombe area and a re-dedication of the Balcombe Gates (2.00pm approx).

•Saturday 4 May - Reunion Dinner - Mornington Racing Club (5.30pm for 6.30pm)
•Sunday 5 May  - Remembrance Service - Mornington War Memorial. Commencing at 0900h with a short street march to the Memorial followed by morning tea at the Dava Hotel.
The full programme and a registration form are available for download from the AAAA website, www.austarmyapprentice.org  under “what’s new”.
Note: Already many people have indicated that they will be attending the weekend and that accommodation in and around Mornington area is fast filling up. So to avoid disappointment anyone that is considering attending this historic event in May should look to book your accommodation now.

Federation Star Presentations (11 Dec 2012)

LTCOL Gordon Lambie, (DMusic-A) reported from Canberra that on Mon 10 Dec 2012 two recipients of the AABC, WO1 Geoff Carter (ex AAB-D) and WO2 Dave Walker (ex AAB-N) were presented their 40 and 50 year Federation Stars respectively by the Chief of Army in his chambers at Russel Offices during the sitting of this month's CASAC meeting. Gordon says both recipients received their awards in a simple, but poignant ceremony in the presence of their wives and most of the Australian Army's Generals. On behalf of the AABC Association we congratulate both Geoff and Dave on this significant achievment and for their dedication to the AABC.