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MORWELL RSL SUB-BRANCHNEWSLETTER

( QUARTERLY )

JUNE - AUGUST, 2013 LEST WE FORGET

Morwell RSL Sub-Branch Inc. Corner Elgin & Tarwin Streets MorwellP.O. Box 105, Morwell 3840 - Phone (03) 5134 2455

E-mail: Enquiries@morwellrsl.com.au_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Your Committee

President:-Bruce Jeffrey

Senior Vice President:-Les Maher

Vice President:-Wayne Gwynne

Secretary:-Dennis Cleary

Treasurer:-William (Bill) Hall

Committee Members:-Willaim (Bill) Cox,Ted Dunstan, Joe Geddes,Don George, andRobert Jackman

General Manager:-Dennis Cleary

Manager:-Christine Hennessy

Duty Manager:-Sheryl Knowles_____________________________________

Sub Committees

Appeals:-Wayne Gwynne (Appeals Officer)Bill Cox and Don George

Pensions:-Joe Geddes and Ted Dunstan

Welfare:-Robert Jackman

Newsletter & Web Site Editor:-Graham (Beatle) Burgess

ANZAC Appeal – Report

The Morwell RSL Sub-Branch once again congratulates andthanks the Citizens of Morwell, Churchill, Yinnar, Boolarra anddistricts for their generosity in donating to the ANZAC DayToken Appeal. We also thank the business owners and their staffin the CBD Area, Mid Valley, and the Industrial Areas forallowing our volunteers to enter their business premises andcollect from them and their staff whilst they were busy working,some of them even stored our equipment overnight during theAppeal period. Thanks also to the workers in these areas for theirgenerous support of our ANZAC Day Token Appeal.

The following Morwell groups were major supporters of ourANZAC Day Appeal:- Roche, Thiess, Linfox (RTL) Depot,Hazelwood Power Station & Mine Employees and Contractors,Loy Yang Power and their associated contractors, AustralianPaper – Maryvale, Maryvale Private Hospital, Bunnings, MidValley Shopping Complex, MECU Credit Union, SilversRestaurant, Network Video, Steve & Stella’s Well Street Fish &Chips, Morwell Post Office, Coles, Stockdale & Leggo,Morwell Bowling Club, Morwell Club, Italian Australian Club,Williams the Shoeman and Woolworths. Also thanks to RitchiesIGA & Woolworths Supermarkets and Anne’s Café & Bar inChurchill and the Yinnar General Store.

Thanks to all the volunteers who sold tokens, especially Ken andCheryl Answer, who spent many hours walking around the localCBD and Industrialareas selling tokens.This is a difficult andarduous job that wasvery well done bythem. Thanks also toDon George for themany hours spentcoordinating theChurchill and Yinnarselling points andmaking sureeverything was up andrunning smoothly.

ANZAC Appeal Report Continued on Page 2

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Women’s Auxiliary

President:-Mary Gwynne

Senior Vice President:-Pat Sheahey

Vice President:-Lyn Priems

Secretary:-Debra Lougheed

Treasurer:-Julie Bassett__________________________________________

Courtesy BusThe Courtesy Bus is only availableto Morwell RSL Sub-BranchService, Affiliate and SocialMembers.

The bus will pick you up fromyour Home, or any other Club andPub in Morwell or Churchill andbring you to the Morwell RSLSub-Branch. Return Journeys willonly be made from the Sub-Branchto your Home.

If you wish to come to the RSL inthe courtesy bus during the timesshown below, please telephone theSub-Branch on (03) 5134 2455.

OPERATING TIMES.

Tuesday:-5-00pm to 10-00pm.

Wednesday:-5-00pm to 10-00pm. With runs toChurchill at 6-00pm, and 8-00pm.

Friday:-5-00pm to 11-00pm. With runs toChurchill at 5-50pm and 9-00pm.

Saturday:-7-15pm to 12-15am.

ANZAC Appeal Report Continued From Page 1

Others who deserve a special mention are those who volunteeredtheir time almost every day. These include Rick Young fortravelling around the stalls to “keep the show on the road” andBruce Jeffrey for all his support, good work and the many hourshe put in before, during and after the Appeal. Thanks also to the424 Squadron Air Cadets and all the Morwell, Churchill,Hazelwood, Yinnar and Boolarra schools who sold tokens.

Although we had over 60 volunteer sellers, some of our sellingpoints were still not manned. The efforts by those who assist inselling badges are appreciated by the RSL and our Sub-Branch.

Don’t forget! If anyone wishes to sell Remembrance DayPoppies or ANZAC Day Badges during forthcoming appeals, abook is now located at the Reception desk for people to put theirnames and details in. This will help me to make contact with youand arrange a selling program that will assist us.

Appeals Officer, Wayne Gwynne_______________________________________________________________

Remembered

You will always be remembered, for you always will be there.You’re living on in grieving hearts, of those you held so dear.

VALEIt is with deep regret that we have been notified of the death ofthe following Members since our last newsletter was printed.

Our deepest sympathy is extended to their family and friends.

MARGARET ROWE - 17th MARCH 2013(Affiliate Member)

THOMAS B. GILPIN - 1st APRIL 2013(Affiliate Member)

GLORIA STEWART - 16th APRIL 2013(Affiliate Member)

HEATHER D. HARRIS - 25th APRIL 2013(Affiliate Member)

DOROTHY (Dot) CUSWORTH - 25th APRIL 2013(Affiliate Member)

FREDERICK L. (Laurie) PREUSKER - 2nd MAY 2013

WILLIAM G. (Glen) AUCHTERLONIE - 17th MAY 2013

LEST WE FORGET.

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Women’s Auxiliary - Gold Stars

After being approved by the Victorian State RSL Women’s Council, the Morwell RSL Women’sAuxiliary recently presented Gold Star Awards to two of its members. The members were MargaretKnights and Edith McGill. Together they have served as volunteers with the Morwell RSL Women’sAuxiliary for a total of over 72 years.

Gold Star Awards are presented for dedicated and outstanding service to the Women’s Auxiliary over along period of time. Marg and Edith’s outstanding records are shown below.

Margaret Knights

Joined the Women’s Auxiliary on 25/07/1972

Positions Held:-

Treasurer 23/11/1972 Junior Vice President 22/11/1976 Senior Vice President 27/11/1977 Senior Vice President 27/11/1978 Junior Vice President 25/07/1988 Treasurer 31/07/1989 Junior Vice President 30/07/1993 Junior Vice President 29/07/1997 Junior Vice President 25/07/1998 Junior Vice President 26/02/1999 Senior Vice President 26/02/2000

Major Commitments:-

ANZAC Day Remembrance Day Appeals Monday Bingo Tuesday Bingo Fundraising Kitchen Legacy

Awards:-

Life Membership awarded 25/04/1998Certificate of Appreciation 15/10/2000

Active Voluntary Service - 41 years

Edith McGill

Joined the Women’s Auxiliary on 26/07/1982

Major Commitments:-

ANZAC Day Appeals Remembrance Day Appeals Tuesday Bingo Fundraising Legacy

Awards:-

Awarded Silver Star 25/04/1998Certificate of Appreciation 26/09/1998Life Membership awarded 2004

Active Voluntary Service - 31 years

Mary Gwynne, Edith McGill, Marg Knights & Debbie Lougheed_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Clever Irish Girl

A very attractive blonde from Cork in Ireland was on holiday in Sydney. She felt lucky and decided tovisit a casino. She seemed a little intoxicated when she arrived at one of the casino’s gaming tables andbet twenty thousand dollars in a single roll of the dice. She said, “I hope you don’t mind, but I feel muchluckier when I’m completely nude.” With that, she stripped from the neck down, rolled the dice and withan Irish brogue yelled, “Come on, baby, Mama needs new clothes!”

As the dice came to a stop, she jumped up and down and squealed; “Yes! Yes! I won, I won!” Shehugged each of the dealers, picked up her winnings and her clothes and quickly departed. The dealersstared at each other dumbfounded. Finally, one of them asked, “What did she roll?” The otheranswered, “I don’t know - I thought you were watching.”

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ANZAC Day – 2013

This year’s ANZAC Day Services in Morwell on Thursday, 25th April were very well attended;attendances seem to be getting larger each year. A huge crowd, larger than I have ever seen at a DawnService at Morwell, attended the Dawn Service, which was conducted by Sub-Branch President, BruceJeffrey. After the Service the Sub-Branch’s Bistro Managers, Mary & Theo and their staff, providedmore than 450 breakfasts. This “Gunfire Breakfast” was sponsored by the Sub-Branch and all donationscollected went into our ANZAC Day Token appeal. As usual there was plenty of food for everyone andthe rum flavoured coffee organised by our manager, Dennis, was pretty good as well.

A very large crowd, including many young people, also attended the mid-day service. The weather wasovercast but thankfully it did not rain. The parade marched off to the Cenotaph under the direction ofParade Marshall, ex WO David Nutt with the assistance of Roger Andruschthak. A large number ofwreaths were laid, by the RSL, Government, Community and Service groups, together with private andpersonal ones. Many were also laid by school children and other groups such as cadets, scouts and theMorwell RSL Youth Football Club.

Our planned Guest Speaker was Gary (Harry) Harris, Ex PettyOfficer Radio Supervisor – R.A.N. Unfortunately he took ill andat the last minute, his partner Inspector Lauren Calloway,Professional Standard Command, stepped in and became ourguest speaker. Lauren and her family have an extensive andproud service history. She did a great job and her speech waswell received. We have heard many reports from people whoenjoyed it. Mr. Ian Moore was the Choirmaster. Music wasperformed by Latrobe City and Morwell Caledonian Bands andMorwell RSL Sub-Branch Senior Vice President, Les Maherwas the Master of Ceremonies.

On completion of the service, over 300 Sub-Branch members and guests attended the annual ANZACDay Luncheon and the afternoon was capped off with a really large gathering for the "Two-Up Game".This activity was again organised and controlled by staff members Christine & Rob.

The ANZAC Day March and Service conducted at Yinnar were well attended by the local community.Lyndon Giles arranged and conducted the commemoration.

A service was also conducted at Boolarra prior to ANZAC Day. Snr. Vice President Les Maherconducted that service which was organised by Roz Carstairs.

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ANZAC Day – 2013

Vietnam Veterans’ Commemoration Day – 18th August

Sunday 18th August is Vietnam Veterans’ Commemoration Day. The day is to commemorate thosewho served and died in the Vietnam War. It is on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. Each yearon this date, services are held at War Memorials throughout Australia. The War in Vietnam resulted insome 60,000 Australians serving there.

The arrival of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) in South Vietnam during July andAugust 1962 was the beginning of Australia's involvement in the War. Australia's participation in the warwas formally declared at an end when the Governor-General issued a proclamation on 11th January 1973.The only combat troops remaining in Vietnam then, were a platoon guarding the Australian embassy inSaigon, which was withdrawn in June 1973.

SERVICE - In Traralgon on Sunday, 18th August, 2013commencing at 10-30am, there will be a Service ofReflection at the Vietnam War Memorial, ANZACMemorial Park, Ellavale Drive Traralgon. Following theservice will be a gathering in the Traralgon RSL Sub-Branch in Grey Street. Vietnam Veterans and the generalpublic are all welcome to attend both events.

Vietnam Veterans’ Welfare - Tokens for the “VietnamVeterans’ Welfare Appeal” will be on sale in the Morwell,Moe, Yallourn / Newborough and Traralgon RSL Sub-Branches and in the Mid Valley Shopping Complex. Thereare a variety of badges on sale, please purchase one. Yoursupport will be gratefully appreciated.

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Sub-Branch Renovations

Late last year I advised the committee our Sub-Branch was in a financial position to embark on furtherextensions or renovation. Either of these projects would need to be capped at approximately $750,000 asthis would not increase payments on our current loan. Its only impact would be to extend the term of theoriginal loan set in 2005. The original loan was for $1.3 million over fifteen years. Considering the Sub-Branch has cash assets of approximately $1.03 million, we are in a very strong financial position.Naturally there are monthly and quarterly commitments included in these cash assets. Under the rules wehave to operate, it is beneficial that the Sub-Branch has a substantial debt. These rules are mentionedevery AGM and I’m sure any committee member could answer questions you have regarding these rules.

A couple of options were put forward. One was to demolish the flats in Berg Street and build a newwelfare, pensions and general office and storage area on the south west corner of the Members’ Lounge.A new car park could have been built where the existing flats are. The other option was to almost doublethe size of the bistro. This option was unanimously accepted even though it would impact on theANZAC and Milne Bay rooms. The current bistro was built in 1995 as part of our first major renovationsand apart from new booth seating last year, there has been minimal work done to it. The committeedeemed it was aged, crowded and due to the lack of space was often set up a little like an army mess hallto cater for patrons. To compete with our competitors, it needs to be more spacious and modern.

A copy of the drawing showing the architects planned changes is on display in the Members’ Lounge andwithout going into extensive details, the major changes shown will be:-

Existing wall and doors between bistro and ANZAC room will be demolished and a new wall anddoors will be located approximately eleven metres into the ANZAC room.

A new glass wall will be built from the existing steps in the foyer to the first section of the ANZACroom smoking area. There will be new entries to both the ANZAC room and the bistro.

New windows similar to the existing main entry windows will replace the ANZAC room windows.

Existing wall between ANZAC room and Milne Bay room to be removed apart from existing stagearea. ANZAC room and Milne Bay room to become one room with the option of cordoning off the“old” Milne Bay room to cater for small groups.

ANZAC room ceiling to be concealed by a suspended decorative ceiling. The existing hightimbered ceiling will not be demolished. It will be left in case future renovations may see the needfor it to be reinstated. The timber ceiling was built in 2004.

The construction of new fixed “bain-marie” and surrounds in the bistro area. This should be ahighlight of the refurbished bistro.

New carpet throughout the entire refurbished area and new chairs in the bistro.

Hopefully this explains the reasons and a very brief overview of the works that are about to take place.The proposed start date is 25th June 2013 and it is expected to be completed within twelve weeks. Therewill be interruptions and inconveniences to everyone visiting the Sub-Branch, and the committee asks foryour patience during this time. Every endeavour will be made to minimise disruptions or inconveniences.

Regards Bill Hall - Treasurer/Building Committee_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Quickies

I had just finished withdrawing some cash from an automatic teller machine when an elderly ladyasked me to help her check her balance; so I pushed her over.

Every time my wife fell pregnant, people would rub her tummy and say “Congratulations”. Whydidn’t anyone rub my crotch and say “Job well done”?

An old bloke and his wife are lying in bed and can’t sleep because the neighbour’s dog is barkinglike mad. Paddy says “To hell with this!” and storms off. When he comes back his wife asks“What did you do?” He replies “I've put the dog in our garden, let's see how they like it!”

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RSL Rose

A ROSE created in memory of a long-term Morwell RSL member Robert (Bob) Brown has been plantedin a garden bed at Morwell Centenary Rose Garden. Robert, from Yinnar, was a passionate member ofthe Morwell RSL and a rose fancier. About five years ago, after Bob’s death, his family requested a rosebe developed in his honour. Robert’s daughter-in-law Hayley spoke to Kim Syrus from the company,Corporate Roses, about creating a rose for him. Kim suggested the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch would be agood avenue for developing and naming the rose, so he met with the Sub-Branch members.

The late Morwell RSL president Mal Bugg became heavilyinvolved in the process, and soon realised this was a big job.Mal asked for help from Victoria’s State RSL Headquartersbut it soon became even too big for them and finally became aNational RSL project. It was also decided to name the rose“The RSL Rose”.

The RSL Rose, which was created in southern France, waslaunched at the Melbourne International Flower and Gardenshow in April, and one was recently planted in a bed of theMorwell Centenary Rose Garden. The Morwell RSL is alsodonating a seat for the RSL rose bed. The RSL Rose featurestones of burgundy and amber mirroring the colours of dawnand dusk. Carrying a light rose perfume, this rose will lookbrilliant planted singly, in large groups, or in pots.

The RSL rose will be supplied as a dormant plant; individually bagged, and should be available in July.RSL Roses may be ordered from the Morwell RSL at $30.00 each. $5.00 from every rose sold throughRSL Sub-Branches will go to the RSL, whilst $1.00 from each rose sold through nurseries will go to theRSL. More information about how to order RSL roses is available at the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch andinformation about the rose can be found on the internet web site rslrose.com.au_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Computer Training Classes

Computer training classes at the Morwell RSL commenced on Tuesday 14th May. We were surprised bythe interest shown and 24 people attended the first session, which was far more than we expected.Although some of these will probably not complete the 10 week course, those who do will learn a lot ofuseful information. Thanks to Wendy Brown from U3A for conducting the classes. This was the largestnumber of “students” she has trained in one session for a long time. In hindsight we should haverestricted the classes to about 15 and that would have been better for everyone.

The classes were planned to be conductedin the Mal Bugg Board Room, however thatroom was not large enough to facilitate somany people with computers at any onetime, so the classes are being conducted inthe Members’ Lounge which obviously isnot as private or quiet for a class situation.

DVA and the Morwell RSL supplied all thenecessary stationary and equipment for theclasses and as well as the Morwell RSLManagement, thanks to Catherine Spooner(Canberra DVA) and Michael Mihaly(Morwell DVA) for their support andassistance in conducting yet anotherworthwhile community function.

Wendy Brown assists some of the computer class members

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RSL Rewards Program

How it Works – You can earn and redeem points atmost RSLs throughout Victoria*. If you're purchasing ameal or a round of drinks you will be rewarded! Youwill be rewarded for every dollar you spend, so the moreyou spend, the more rewards you will enjoy.

Being a part of the RSL Rewards also gives you entryinto competitions and prize giveaways. ( During May,$5000 was given away each week. ) Simply swipe yourcard when purchasing anything in the Sub-Branch. RSL Rewards Logo

You can also use your card in the RSL Rewards kiosk ( located in the clubs foyer ) to enter competitionsand find out your points balance.

How to Join – It’s simple! If you are an existing RSL Member, you’re already part of the RSLRewards program. Otherwise simply visit the Morwell RSL Sub-Branch and ask to sign up to become amember. If you’re eligible, all you need to do is fill in the membership form! A staff member can enteryour details on the spot, print your membership card and you're ready to go! ( The Logo Shown above isprinted on your membership card. ) Start using your card today and earn points now! The more pointsyou earn, the higher the rewards!

If you would like a copy of the RSL Rewards Rules, visit the Victorian State website www.rslvic.com.auor ask a staff member to print them for you.

Please Note:- For purchases before 31st December 2013, you will earn 2 points for everydollar spent. Each point earned may be redeemed at the rate of 100 points worth $1.00.Conditions of this year’s contract with RSL Rewards require that points must be redeemedbefore 31st December 2013 or they will lapse.

* excluding Seaford, Box Hill and East Malvern RSLs._______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

My Job Search

1. My first job was working in an Orange Juice factory, but I got canned, I couldn't concentrate.

2. Then I worked in the woods as a Lumberjack, but I just couldn't hack it, so they gave me the axe.

3. After that, I tried being a Tailor, but I wasn't suited for it, mainly because it was a sew-sew job.

4. Next, I tried working in a Muffler Factory, but that was too exhausting.

5. Next, I attempted being a Deli Worker, but any way I sliced it, I couldn't cut the mustard.

6. My best job was a Musician, but eventually I found I wasn't noteworthy.

7. I studied a long time to become a Doctor, but I didn't have any patience.

8. Next, was a job in a Shoe Factory, I tried hard but I just didn't fit in.

9. I became a Professional Fisherman, but discovered I couldn't live on my net income.

10. I managed to get a good job working for a Pool Maintenance Company, but it was just too draining.

11. So then I got a job in a Leisure Centre, but they said I wasn't fit for the job.

12. Then, I finally got a job as a Historian, until I realized there was no future in it.

13. I even worked in a Coffee Shop, but I had to quit because it was the same old grind.

14. I even tried to work as a Draughtsman, but I lost my rubber and the lead fell out of my pencil.

15. My last job was Driving Trains, but I didn’t take any notice of the signals and fell off the rails.

16. SO, I TRIED RETIREMENT AND I FOUND I'M PERFECT FOR THE JOB!

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Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk

On Saturday 9th March 2013, which was an extremely hot day, Morwell RSL Sub-Branch sponsored a bustrip with members and friends to Seymour, where they gathered with a large crowd of several thousandpeople for the commemoration of the 2nd Stage of the “Vietnam Veterans' Commemorative Walk”. Theproject has taken about 8 years to develop to its present stage and cost over 2 million dollars.

The unique Commemorative Walk commemorates the service of all those service personnel and trackerdogs who served in South Vietnam. At the start of the walk are a black granite memorial Cairn and a re-creation of the makeshift entertainment venue set up by soldiers during the war, at the end of LuscombeAirfield at Nui Dat in Vietnam, known as “Luscombe bowl”. They are set on red brick pavers. Furtheralong are a Centurion Tank and a replica of the Long Tan Cross. The Walk is a meandering red earthpath amid native spotted gum trees and grasses that resemble the rubber trees and rice paddies that aresynonymous with Vietnam. The main feature along the length of this Walk is a double sided wall about 2metres high and 80 metres long, made up of 106 panels of “DigiGlass” ( laminated safety glassencapsulating high resolution images ) with the name of every one of the 60,267 service personnel whoserved in Vietnam. The plinths on which the panels stand have holes for Poppies to be placed; the effectis to have a field of Poppies under the names.

The names which are in alphabetical order, are divided into 3 groups, the Army, Navy and Air Force,indicating the arm of the services in which they served. The names are superimposed on a pictorial storyof the Vietnam conflict. When completed, there will be areas for people to contemplate along the lengthof the walk, together with military artefacts of the period including a centurion tank and a helicopter.

I was unable to join the bus trip in March but have since visited the Commemorative Walk. It is mostimpressive and I suggest if you are in the Seymour area, make an effort to visit this magnificent project. Ialso visited the area at night and found it to be even more impressive when illuminated.

A section of the Commemorative Walk – Day A section of the Commemorative Walk - Night_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

New Definitions

ADULT – A person who has stoppedgrowing at both ends and is now growing inthe middle.

CHICKEN – The only animals you eatbefore they are born and after they are dead.

INFLATION – Cutting money in halfwithout damaging the paper.

BEAUTY PARLOR – A place wherewomen curl up and dye.

COMMITTEE – A body that keepsminutes and wastes hours.

MOSQUITOS – Insects that makes youlike flies better.

TOOTHACHE – The pain that drivesyou to extraction.

SECRET – Something you tell to oneperson at a time.

YAWN – An honest opinion openlyexpressed.

DUST – Mud with the juice squeezed out.

HANDKERCHIEF – Cold Storage.

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Morwell RSL Sub-BranchLunch & Dinner, Every Day – Enquiries & Bookings, Phone 5135 3689

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Friday Evening Meals – 6-00pm to 8-30pm

Friday evening Bistro Meals feature an extensive “All-You-Can-Eat” smorgasbordselection, including Soup, Salads and Sweets for $15.00. Individually priced meals mayalso be ordered from a selection of à la carte meals listed on the menu above the BistroServery and other special meals listed on a “Specials Board”.

Available with all meals is Soup and a selection of Salads and Sweets.

Wednesday Evening Meals – 6-00pm to 8-30pm

Special Meals, each with a specific theme, are available in the Morwell RSL’s VictoriaCross Bistro on each Wednesday evening of the month, as follows:-

1st Wednesday - All-You-Can-Eat SEAFOOD Smorgasbord - $18.00

2nd Wednesday - SCHNITZEL Night - $12.00

3rd Wednesday - PARMA Night - $12.00

4th Wednesday - STEAK Night - $15.00

5th Wednesday (If applicable) - PARMA Night - $12.00

Available with all meals is Soup and a selection of Salads and Sweets._______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Morwell RSL Website

The IMG Group who have hosted the RSL internet website for the past 10 years, no longer have acontractual agreement with the Victorian State RSL. Due to this contractual change, we are no longerable to maintain our website and it has become “out of date” and some of its content is not correct.

A new website host has been contracted and a new website is now being developed for the RSL. Duringthis period you will not be able to access an up to date website for the Morwell RSL. Copies of ourcurrent GiG Guide, Newsletter and Vale list etc. will not be available on the internet until further notice.

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Entertainment Calendar – ( Shez’s GIG Guide ) - Our Duty Manager Sherylhas organised the following entertainment. Please support these evenings and have a great time.

JUNE

Saturday 1st - ALEX JIVE BAND

Saturday 8th - MISTY

Saturday 15th - ESQUIRES

* Sunday 16th - OLD TIME DANCE *( Ken & Alice Rae – 2pm until 4pm. – Free )

Saturday 22nd - I.C. ROCK

Saturday 29th - BLACKHILL RAMBLERS

JULY

Saturday 6th - FLASHBACKS

Saturday 13th - YESTERYEAR

Saturday 20th - KINGPINS

* Sunday 21st - OLD TIME DANCE *( Ken & Alice Rae – 2pm Onwards. – Free )

Saturday 27th - SHINDIG

AUGUST

Saturday 3rd - HAVEN

Saturday 10th - ESQUIRES

Saturday 17th - I.C. ROCK( Elvis Tribute )

* Sunday 18th - OLD TIME DANCE *( Ken & Alice Rae – 2pm Onwards. – Free )

Saturday 24th - HOUND DOGS

Saturday 31st - ALEX JIVE BAND

Entertainment Friday Nights:-

Throughout the winter period, there will not beany regular entertainment in the Morwell RSLon Friday nights. However, there will continueto be entertainment in the RSL on Saturdaynights between 8.00pm and 12.30am.

Entertainment functions marked thus * willbe held in the ANZAC Room, with EntryCharges as noted. All others will be held inthe Members, Lounge and are Free Entry.

Please check the latest “Gig Guide” at the Sub-Branch reception desk or contact the club bytelephone on 5134 2455 in case there are anylate changes to the entertainment calendar.

Table Bookings:- Advanced Table bookingswill NOT be accepted for functions in theMembers’ Lounge. However you mayarrange a table for you and your guests onarrival if one is available.

The OLD TIME DANCE with Ken and AliceRae is a great afternoon’s entertainment on theThird Sunday of each month. There isalways plenty of space for people to comealong and enjoy the Music, Games andFriendship, not forgetting the Dancing, ofcourse. This entertainment is FREE.

IMPORTANT: - Due to Health regulations,patrons are not allowed to bring food orbeverages onto our premises for any function.

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Crazy Date

Elderly lady Dorothy:- “That nice George Johnson asked me out for a date. I know you went out withhim last week, and I wanted to talk with you about him before I give him my answer.”

Elderly lady Edna:- “Well, I'll tell you. He shows up at my unit punctually at 7 pm, dressed like such agentleman in a suit, and he brings me some beautiful flowers! Then he takes me out in a hugechauffeured limousine. We had a marvellous dinner, lobster, champagne, dessert, and after-dinner drinks.Then we went to a show. Let me tell you Dorothy, I enjoyed it so much I could have just died frompleasure! But when we came back to my unit, he turns into a huge ANIMAL. Completely crazy, he tearsoff my expensive new dress and has his way with me three times!”

Elderly lady Dorothy:- “Goodness gracious!... So you’re telling me I shouldn't go out with him?”

Elderly lady Edna:- “No, no, no... I'm just saying, for God’s sake, wear an old dress.”

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Australian GovernmentDepartment of Veterans’ Affairs

Articles regarding the Department ofVeterans’ Affairs are extracts of mediareleases from the Department’s Minister.Originals are available on his website -http://minister.dva.gov.au/index.htm

DVA Mental Health Support Goes Online – Veterans and Australian Defence Force seekingmental health support will benefit from a new web portal developed by the Department of Veterans’Affairs and launched by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon on 14th April.

“The new At Ease portal offers pathways to achieving mental fitness and resilience, self-help tools, accessto professional support, treatment options, healthy drinking and clinical information for GPs and mentalhealth professionals. It provides a gateway to a series of mental health-related videos, smart-phone appsand a raft of hard copy resources that promote self-help and awareness of behaviours that may bedamaging to individuals, families, friends and work prospects,” Minister Snowdon said.

With Anzac Day approaching, Mr Snowdon said it was a timely reminder for all members of the veteranand Defence communities to seek help if they need it. “Our veterans and service personnel are some ofthe most resilient people in the country. But they are not immune to the effects of their work – theirmental health can suffer. The key message is: don’t suffer in silence.”

Eligible serving or ex-serving Defence personnel, or their families, who are concerned about their mentalhealth should visit www.at-ease.dva.gov.au or call the Veterans and Veterans’ Families CounsellingService (VVCS) on 1800 011 046 for free, confidential counselling and support 24 hours a day.

Are You Eligible For DVA Assistance? – There are four Australian Government Acts whichprovide compensation coverage for current and former members of the A.D.F.

They are:-• Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA)• Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (SRCA)• Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA)• Defence Act 1903 (DA)

Please use the table shown on the following page as a guide to see which Act may provide benefits to youfor a compensable injury or illness. For further information on eligibility and claiming, please contact theDepartment on 133 254, your local DVA office or visit the Department’s internet site, www.dva.gov.au

Notes:-

1. The benefits you may be entitled to when claiming for compensation will depend on:-

The date on which your injury or illness occurred (for SRCA, DA and MRCA purposes), or The period of service to which your injury or disease can be related (for VEA purposes).

2. For service before 7th December 1972, members are covered under the SRCA (and its predecessorlegislation) for Peacetime service and under the VEA for Operational and Peacekeeping service.There was no provision for "Hazardous Service" at that time.

3. Members who enlisted after 22nd May 1986 and did not complete 3 years “Continuous Full TimeService” before 6th April 1994, but were discharged as medically unfit, may claim under the VEA.

4. Hazardous service, is service which has been declared in writing, by the Minister of Defence to behazardous.

If you would like additional information regarding this or any other topics that DVA are responsible forplease do not hesitate to contact Michael or Phil at the DVA office, No.10 George Street Morwell, onMonday, Wednesday Thursday or Friday, you may also phone them anytime on (03) 5133 0177.

Department of Veterans’ Affairs Continued on Page 13

13

Department of Veterans’ Affairs Continued from Page 12

Which Act Applies For Your DVA Assistance?

Please read this chart in conjunction with the last article titled “Are You Eligible For DVA Assistance?”on the previous page.

Date of Incident

Type of Service

On or after7th Dec, 1972

and before22nd May 1986

On or after22nd May, 1986

and before7th April 1994

On or after7th April, 1994

and before1st July 2004

On or after1st July, 2004

Peacetime Continuous FullTime Service (CFTS)

Enlisted on or after7th April, 1994

N/A N/A SRCA MRCA

Enlisted on or after22nd May, 1986

(And have completed 3 yearscontinuous full time service

by 6th April, 1994)

N/A SRCA & VEA SRCA MRCA

Enlisted on or after22nd May, 1986

(And have not completed 3 yearscontinuous full time service

by 6th April, 1994)

N/A SRCA SRCA MRCA

Enlisted before 22nd May, 1986(And have continually servicedup to and after 7th April, 1994)

SRCA & VEA SRCA & VEA SRCA & VEA MRCA

Former Members(Prior to 7th April, 1994)

SRCA & VEA SRCA & VEA N/A N/A

Operational Service(War Like Service)

VEA VEA SRCA & VEA MRCA

Peacekeeping Service(Non War Like Service)

SRCA & VEA SRCA & VEA SRCA & VEA MRCA

Hazardous Service(Non War Like Service)

Not Declared SRCA & VEA SRCA & VEA MRCA

Part Time Service SRCA SRCA SRCA MRCA

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Morwell RSL Women’s Auxiliary

Party Plan DaySaturday 24th August 2013 – 1.00pm until 3.30pm

There will be 25 stalls with a variety of goods including Clothing, Jewellery,Home Wares, Makeup, Perfume, Handbags, and Crafts plus much more, all in

one convenient location in the Morwell RSL ANZAC Function Room.

Entry is only $2.00 per person

Come along and browse and enjoy the raffles

Afternoon Tea Provided._______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Special Occasion?Birthday, Anniversary, New Baby, Wedding, Funeral?

Call Lynn on 5135 3778 or Email, lynn@flowersinthevalley.com.au

We also have giftware and greeting cards.

Free delivery to the Morwell CBD

Shop 15/186 Commercial Road, Morwell 3840

15% discount on all flower arrangements when you present your RSL membership card_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

LATROBE VALLEY TRAVEL

Latrobe Valley Travel is Located at4 Tarwin Street Morwell.

The Proprietor, May Sennett, is a Member ofthe Morwell R.S.L. Sub-Branch and togetherwith her experienced staff is able to assist youwith your entire travel requirements, frombooking a hotel in Melbourne to your dreamholiday overseas.

When planning your next holiday, visit LatrobeValley Travel. They will organise all thedetails for you.

Telephone:- (03) 5134 1433

Facsimile:- (03) 5133 9325

Email:-enquiries@latrobetravel.com.au

Licencee:- E.M. Sennett t/a Latrobe Valley TravelLicence No.:- 31427

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Medal Mounting Scam

The following article was kindly supplied to our newsletter by a serving member of the Defence Forceswho also mounts medals. He has also confirmed it to be true, so please be advised to follow therecommendations suggested in the last paragraph when having your irreplaceable medals mounted.

Please alert members who are considering or have had medals mounted by private businesses that there isa scam being perpetrated where replica medals are substituted for originals. This came to my attentionwhen remounting medals for colleagues. What has been happening is members have presented originalmedals for mounting and have had replicas returned in their place. This is difficult with full-size medalsbecause the member's details are usually engraved on the edge. Miniatures are the most common victimof this scam as it takes a keen eye and experience to detect to substitution, a task made difficult when youhave no other set for comparison. Fortunately for me, those to whom I have had to report that asubstitution had occurred, trusted me and I was never accused of making the substitution myself. Now,on accepting a job, I inspect and even begin pulling the job apart in the presence of the customer to ensurethat all the originals are present when they are handed to me. Then I issue the owner with a receipt for“original” full-size / miniature medals, so there can be no doubt as to the job details.

For some years now it has been a requirement that replica medals have an identifying mark to indicatethey are replicas. By the nature of a medal, it isimportant that the medal looks authentic whenworn, so the “replica” marking is made in a positionwhich is not on display, like the reverse side, but notall replicas comply with this requirement. Whencourt mounted, the replica indication cannot beseen. Detection of replica miniatures is usually easyenough in most cases. Because they are usually castand not minted the edge is a bit rounded whereas theoriginals have a flat edge with a well defined angleat the front and back. Genuine Full Size Medal, Engraved on the Edge

For the scammer, full-size medals which have the engraving on the back can be substituted more easilythan those engraved on the edge because the engraved area on the back is covered by the court mounting.In my limited experience, I have only detected substitution of recently issued medals, but have heardreports of whole sets of World War 2 medals being substituted on an “industrial” scale.

My recommendation to anyone who has medal work done by private businesses is to take clear, close-upphotos of your originals so you can recognise a substitution; obtain a receipt detailing, individually, whatmedals you are presenting for work and that they are originals and what work is to be done; be preparedto explain why you require a receipt and what information is required on it (without making accusations);and be prepared to walk away if you don't get it._______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Battle for Australia Day – 4th September

The Battle for Australia Day is on the first Wednesday in September each year. This year it’s onWednesday 4th September. Battle for Australia Day commemorates the service and sacrifice of all thosewho served in defence of Australia in 1942 and 1943 when we faced the gravest threats to our nation.This national day of observance will provide tangible recognition and greater community awareness ofthe contribution to Australia’s freedom and democracy of those who fought in the Battle for Australia.

There were direct attacks on the Australian mainland, particularly in Darwin, and battles in the Coral Seaand Papua and New Guinea, including Milne Bay and the Kokoda Track. Prime Minister John Curtinannounced the Battle for Australia when Singapore fell on 15th February 1942. The first Wednesday inSeptember was chosen by the veteran community as it represents the first defeat of Japanese forces onland in the Battle of Milne Bay. The day is also an opportunity to remember the sacrifices of those on thehome front, who lived in a time when the entire economy was directed towards the war effort.

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Sub-Branch Trading Hours

Clubrooms

Monday to Thursday,10-00am to 1-00am

Friday, 10-00am to 3-00am

Saturday, 10-00am to 1-00am

Sunday,11-00am to 12-00 Midnight

Victoria Cross Bistro

Every Day of the Week

Lunch - 12-00 noon to 2-00pm

Dinner - 6-00pm to 8-30pm

For reservations phone Mary on

(03) 5135 3689______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Morwell RSL Bingo – Every Monday & TuesdayEveryone is Welcome – Enquiries, Phone 5134 2455

____________________________________________________________________________________

Monday Afternoon

2 sessions of 15 games - $3.00 per book.

Ticket sales from 10-30am

Eyes Down at 12-00 noon

Rolling Jackpot

Prizes are subject to ticket sales

( Courtesy Bus Available ) – Tuesday Night

2 sessions of 15 games - $3.00 per book.

Ticket sales from 6-00pm

Eyes Down at 8-00pm

Rolling Jackpot

Prizes are subject to ticket sales_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DISCLAIMER – Information printed in this newsletter is either reprinted from other publications or is derivedfrom other verbal or written notes. While efforts are made to verify the information, the opinions expressed are notnecessarily those of the editor or the Sub Branch Committee and Management. Readers should not act or relyupon any matters or information contained or implied by this newsletter without checking its accuracy. Noresponsibility or guarantee is given or implied for any action taken by individuals or groups as a result ofinformation contained within this newsletter and no liability will be accepted for any loss resulting from such use._______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DON’T FORGET – Mark These Events on Your Calendar

“Jingle Bells in July” - 12-00noon, Sunday 7th July in the ANZAC Room3 Course Traditional Christmas Dinner $16.00 - Book with Mary in the V.C. Bistro.

Vietnam Veterans’ Commemoration Day Service.ANZAC Memorial Park - Traralgon - 10-30am Sunday 18th August

( The service is followed by a gathering at the Traralgon RSL in Grey Street).

Annual Veterans’ Dinner - 5-00pm Sunday 6th October - $10.00Get ready early and organise a table of eight with your friends for this great annual event.

More details later in the Sub-Branch and in the September Newsletter - Tickets Available in August.______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Friday 16th August is the closing date for articles to be included in the next newsletter, September Edition