< NSW Scottish Regimental Association 2011-2015 Activity


NSW SCOTTISH REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION

ASSOCIATION ACTIVITY AFTER 2014


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30 BATTALIONS' CHURCH PARADE 2015 ST STEPHENS
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30 Battalion Queens Colour in St Stephen's 30 Battalion Regimental Colour in St Stephen's

Our thanks to Ron Mallyon and Stuart Kennedy for contributing photographs (theirs are the good ones)

At the risk of being repetitive our report again begins with the weather for the 2015 30 Battalions' Church Parade so as to give credit where credit is due. Although the day was rainy before and after but not during the march to the Church, once again our organiser was successful in holding the rain at bay. Or was it because it was a Church Parade that a higher authority should take the credit?

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The Pipes and Drums in Hyde Park found an appreciative audience of tourists

The march from Hyde Park to St Stephen's took another turn this year. Due to the re-routing of traffic in the Sydney CBD to allow George St to be closed for the installation of the Sydney Light Rail project, Macquarie St is taking significantly more traffic our March terminated in Martin Place rather than outside the Church. Another piece of history was re-written, when the ladies of the Regiment who usually farewell us in Hyde Park, and then carry what we don't want to, joined us in the march, again carrying what we didn't want to as the following photo clearly shows.

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The Ladies of the Regiment

In Martin Place, an opportunity was taken to pay respects at the Commnando memorial following the traditional trooping of the Pipes and Drums.

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Martin Place Trooping the Pipes and Drums Salute to the Commandos

The Service this year was conducted by the Rev Ross Smith who was standing in for the New Minister The Rev Ken Day

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During the service the Pipes and Drums played a bracket of tunes including Going Home which is appropriate considering the 30 Battalion Colours are laid up in St Stephens. Our picture shows the Pipes and Drums playing under the Queen's Colour.

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Then to the Christmas Lunch at the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel where Frank Woodhams extended a special welcome to:

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Marching in the Standards Welcome from Frank Woodhams Grace said by our Padre The Rev Dr Iain Barclay MBE TD
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Happy Lunchers. Note the Raffle Consultants Consulting More Happy Lunchers consulting and More

We have now instituted a new tradition - or at least started to last year - Piping in the Pud. However with his usual impeccable sense of bad timing your photographer got the Santa Piper going instead of coming. But Graham Podmore got the timing right and consulted him about a raffle ticket while he was still coming!
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And then the usual highlight of the day, the Pipes and Drums

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As our Black Bear "Hoi" Leader, and therefore an honorary member of the Pipes and Drums Harvey Baden was invited to join the Pipe Major's Toast.

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The Raffle attracted the usual high number of valuable prizes.

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And some of the winners were:

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The Christmas lunch finished with a well deserved Presentation to Frank Woodhams from the Association. He was escorted to the podium by Peter Bryce and Terry Kennedy where Harvey Baden spoke very eloquently of Frank's devotion to the Association, his very significant role in its formation, his enthusiasm that has made the Associaton continue to be the most successful of those affiliated with the Reserve Forces Day Council and his wonderful success in engendering and promoting the continued esprit de corps of the Scottish.

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RESERVE FORCES DAY 2015

Our report on RFD 2015 features some before and after photos, if only to demonstrate the work that goes into our functions

The first is Macquarie St before the Parade. Our representation on the Reserve Forces Day Council exceeds that of any other Association, with Frank Woodhams as Treasurer, Ian Meek as Secretary, Terry Kennedy and Kevin Cram as Quartermasters. Frank is involved in the planning for the Parade at every level whilst Ian is responsible for the logistics side of the day and is assisted by Terry and Kevin. Perhaps it is because of the latter involvement and the fact that the Secretary of the RFDC is also the webmaster of this site that allows him to seek webmaster licence in showing the work done before the Parade commences:

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RFD 2015 took place on a perfect winter's day and did not provide the opportunity for Plan B for inclement weather to be tested. Contrary to the apparent calm atmosphere in Macquarie St at 1030 as depicted above (Webmaster Note: this atmosphere was not so calm between 0600 and 1030, in fact quite the reverse). However the scene in College St was one of feverish activity.

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However the scene became organised as the march commenced.

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After the Parade, the traditional New South Wales Scottish Annual Reunion at the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel

Here again we show a "before" photo, this time showing the organising team in action.

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About 90 members and guests attended.

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Frank Woodhams welcomed the special guests who included:

The proceedings started as usual with the Address to the Haggis. This was given by Hugh McLeod

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Frank then invited the Hon Tim Fischer to address the gathering, which he did by describing the career of General Sir John Monash. Tim Fischer has written a book on Sir John's life and is attempting to have him posthumously promoted to Field Marshal as the most successful Australian commander in World War 1. Tim finished his address by auctioning a copy of his book, with the proceeds to go to charity. The auction raised $170 courtesy of David Mullen.

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The Hon Tim honouring Sir John

In his genuine Scots accent Iain Barclay has previously given us pleasure by addressing the haggis but with Hugh having performed this role on this occasion we were treated to more Robert Burns in true Scots when Iain entertained us by reciting (and translating) A Man's A Man For A'That

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The Rev Iain honouring the Man

Toasts to the Queen (David Mullen) The Regiment (Graham Podmore),and Departed Army Mates (John Doak) and the ladies of the Regiment (Frank Woodhams) were proposed and drunk.

In proposing the Toast to the Regiment Graham Podmore added some fascinating references to the 30th Battalion in WW1 and the 2/30th in WW2 and their Commanding Officers.

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The Pipes and Drums again stirred us with a new selection of tunes.

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This was followed by the Pipe Major's toast. Note the transparent quaich used by Frank Woodhams. AsS your webmaster was seated to Jan he has it on good authority that Frank had recruited a driver for the afternoon hence the liberal quantity of Scotch in his transporent quaich instead of the usual minimum amounut of moisture in the bottom of it. RFD 2015

The proceedings concluded with the traditional raffle.

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Some of the winners who had to make difficult decisons were:

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Our thanks to Margaret and Graham Podmore and Damien Pace for the photos and to Hugh McLeod for the video.


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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND HARBOUR CRUISE 2015

We have commented previously about our organiser's abilty to turn on good weather for our events and so it proved once again See the following pictures

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BEFORE AFTER

The Pipes and Drums made sure that the Opera House visitors were in no doubt that the Association had arrived.

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The first item on the agenda was the Annual General Meeting where Frank Woodhams summarised the events of 2014 and forecast a sussessful 2015. He passed in the thanks of the Association to the members who help in sending out SITREP, the marketing consultants who sell raffle tickets, the donors of raffle prizes and all those who make the Association such a success. He also revealed a very healthy financial position.

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The AGM in session

Then it was on to the main business of the day - enjoying Sydney Harbour.

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The main event of the afternoon was, as always, the performance by the Pipes and Drums. During a break in the performance Frank Woodhams conducted a short ceremony to remember the men of the 2/30th Battalion who fought and succeeded so gallantly at Gemas in 1942. This year due to security concerns at the Pymble depot, Gemas Day ceremony was not celebrated. Following the ceremony The Pipes and Drums played a lament

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Each year the Association allocates funds to the Pipes and Drums to maintain instruments, uniform items etc. Frank Woodhams presented this year's donation to Pipe Major Gordon Irving.

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Before drawing the raffle, the Vice-Chancellor of the McNeice University of Carringbah presented diplomas to the graduates of the University's Raffle Marketing Faculty.

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The highly qualified recipients were Graham Podmore, Vicki Redshaw, John Cameron, Peter Bryce and Stuart Kennedy.

The selection of prizes was as varied and numerous as usual headed by the Dulux Dog. It is understood that this was a historic occasion so far as the dog is concerned because in future the dog will be of the blow-up variety.

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Some of the happy winners were:

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2016 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND HARBOUR CRUISE
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Our Vessel flying our Maritime Ensign
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The Pipes and Drums at the Opera House

In perfect late summer weather the 2016 Annual General Meeting and Harbour Cruise was again a spectacular occasion enjoyed by 90 members and guests.

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The crew of the Good Time insisted that a good time could not be had by all unless lunch could be served on departure. (Were they afraid of sea-sickness?)


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Thus fortified we adjourned to the Annual General Meeting where President Frank outlined the very successful functions held during 2015, supported by a very healthy financial report, and forecast the 2016 activities.

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The port side was brighter than the starboard!

Then the usual highlight of all our functions, the Pipes and Drums entertained us.

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And the raffle - the prizes offered reaching their usual very high standard thanks to our prize donators and also realising a record addition to the Association funds thanks to Don McNeice and his highly trained team of consultants.

Some of the winners were:
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ANZAC DAY 2016

The reports on our various functions have always started off with a comment in the weather. While this may be useful for historical reasons the subject of the weather hardly makes scintillating reading. Your webmaster therefore promised himself that the weather would not be the opening subject for ANZAC Day 2016. However the weather on the day turned out to be so perfect that he could not resist reporting on it. Another promise broken!

The route of the march this year was altered from the traditional march past the Cenotaph and then on George St due to the work on the light rail in George St. It now takes marchers south along Elizabeth St with respects being given as the participants draw level with the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park South. Despite public comments from veterans about not marching past the Cenotaph, the new route seemed to win general approval. Certainly some of the 40 members of the Association who marched commented favourably on it.

The Association was led this year by Major Stephen von Muenster, the previous OC of Alpha Company (Scottish), who while serving in that capacity was a keen supporter of the Asscoation and who in his "retirement" from current service continues to support us as a member of the Association.

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Our thanks to Chris Coulson for the photographs

Following the March, our traditional NSW Scottish Reunion lunch was held at the Royal Automobile Club. This year, in Frank Woodham's absence the event was hosted by Harvey Baden, who despite being deputised at short notice did an excellent job as always.

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As usual the most popular event of the afternoon was the performance by the PIpes and Drums who once again demonstrated the breadth of their repertoire by including new tunes in their brackets.

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Our stand-in president showed he is as capable as our real president in toasting the Pipe-Major

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A special presentation was made to Vice-President Don McNeice for his very long standing and widespread support to the Association since its formation. Don has provided excellent support to Frank Woodhams in many ways and in many capacities during his long service to the Association and the presentation to him is very well deserved. This was acknowledged widely and enthusiastically by the members at the lunch.

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The raffle again proved popular with some of the winners being:

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h5>30 BATTALIONS' CHURCH PARADE 2016

In a previous report we promised that we would not start our future reports by commenting on the weather. So we won't, except to say that it was perfect for the 2016 30 Battalions' Church Parade.

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The St Stephens Choir under the eye of the 30 Battalion Regimental Standard singing "Where Have All The Flowers Gone?". A most appropriate song for Rememberance Day
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The Church service was followed by the now traditional end of year and Christmas lunch at which traditional Christmas fare was served including festive vegetables which tickled the fancy and the appetite of at least one of our guests who proceeded to eat them festively.

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Thanks to Don and Brenda McNeice for their festive decoration of the tables.

In the absence of haggis at the Christmas lunch a tradition of Piping in the Pud has developed.

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Piping in the Pud The Pud

Then, as always, the highlight of the day the Pipes and Drums, whose repertoire once again included new tunes although their performancee of Highland Cathedral needs special mention as it was a special delight for us all.

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The Pipes and the Drums

In recognition of his sterling service as the Pud Piper and his piped rendition of Happy Birthday to Eric Maver Bill Wright was elevated to Acting Piper Major for the Toast and toasted the President.

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And finally the raffle which does so much under the organisation of Don McNeice and his band of raffle consultants - festive ones this time - to provide funds for the Association. Our thanks to all who donated prizes which were of the usual very high standard.

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Some of the lucky winners were (you will note how intense they were in their selection of prizes such was their high standard):

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Graeme was one of them
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He wanted to make sure of his choice
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Still looking

GEMAS DAY 2017
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About 30 members and guests and the Pipes and Drums attended the 2017 Gemas Day celebration. This is a pleasing turnout showing that Gemas is not forgotten by the current generation.

The 2/30 Battalion Association is still operative but only because its members now comprise, in the main, sons and daughters of the original men of the 2/30th. There are almost none of the orginals still alive and none still capable of attending Gemas Day. Once the memory is passed on to the next generation, it may well be that membership of the Association will decline.

The other WW2 Association of the 30 Battalions, the 30 Battalion 1939-1945, has already been dissolved.

It makes it even more important that our Association take up the baton in continuing the memory of the marvellous work done by the 2/30th at Gemas on 14 January 1942 and the memory of the members of the Battalion who perished then and subsequently as prisoners of war.

It is salutary to reflect on the effect of time by comparing the two photos below. The first shows the 2/30 Asscoation marching in 2008, and the second the members marching in 2017. Note the WW2 medals in the first picture and their absence in the second one.

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The following photo indicates how our attendance swelled the audience on the day.

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The keynote address on the day was given by CAPT Pat Sharkey, the current OC of Alpha Company (Scottish) who reflected on how appropriate the message given by previous guest speakers were then and now. Note that despite the reluctance by the Army hierarchy to support the history of Regiments such as the Scottish, CAPT Sharkey is carrying on the traditions as best he can by wearing the kilt when he can.

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Our Association is proud to lay a wreath on each Gemas Day and this year the wreath was laid by Frank Woodhams and Don McNeice.

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The tradition of marching past the Memorial is still carried on, although in a shortened version, despite the absence of any originals and this year we were proud to be invited to take part by the President of the 2/30 Association. The march was led by the Pipes and Drums as they have done for many years

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RESERVE FORCES DAY 2017
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Photos by courtesy of the ABC.

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Our happy re-enactment group

Reserve Forces Day 2017 was again held at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park, with the Association members forming up on both sides of the Pool of Remembrance, a very fitting and thought provoking venue.

In the absence of the Governor, who was overseas, the Principal Reviewing Officer was the Lieutenant-Governor of New Soutn Wales, His Excellency the Hon Tom Bathurst AC.

The theme of Reserve Forces Day 2017 continued the Centenary of ANZAC theme by remembering the Mounted Desert Campaign and the Charge at Beersheba in October 1917. The Parade featured the Light Horse by placing them at the northern end of the Pool of Remembrance and by honouring the 1/15th New South Wales Lancers and the 12/16 Hunter River Lancers as representatives of the cavalry that took part in the Charge at Beersheba, the last major mounted cavalry action in history.

A demonstration of the equipment carried by each trooper during the 1917 Mounted Desert Campaign was given by two troopers from the Light Horse Association.

Our Pipes and Drums led a parade of descendants of World War 1 veterans who were presented with medallions by the Chairman of the Reserve Forces Day Council, the Hon Tim Fischer AC, the Chief of Army, Lieutenant-General Angus Campbell DSO AO, the RSM of the Army, Warrant Officer First Class Don Spinks OAM, Rear Admiral the Homourable Justice Michael Slattery RANR, the Judge Advocate General of the Australian Defence Forces. Frank Woodhams, who is also Treasurer of the Reserve Forces Day Council was responsible for the the organisation of the presentation.

Once again our Association was represented on the organising committee of Reserve Forces Day by Frank Woodhams, Ian Meek, the Secretary of the Reserve Forces Day Council , Terry Kennedy who was responsible for the forming up area of the Parade and by Kevin Cram.

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Frank Woodhams welcomed members and their guests to the traditional Formal Lunch that has been held on Reserve Forces Day for many years. The venue again was the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel

In doing so he welcomed special guests, CAPT Pat Sharkey, OC of Alpha Company (Scottish), LTCOL John Moore and Mrs Virginia Moore, Connie Cameron, Fred Nile and Mrs Silvana Nile, Angie Valentine Flint, Jolyon Nove and Marion Howard.

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As usual proceedings commenced with the Address to the Haggis, this time carried out by Eric Maver.

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LTCOL Tony Larnach-Jones spoke to the assembly about the Boer War Memorial in Canberra which has now been opened and thanked the members of the Association and the Reserve Fiorces Day Council for their part in obtaining funds for completion of the project.CAPT Pat Sharkey follwed by describing a restructure of the Reserve whereby 8 Brigade will now become a training unit. 2/17 Bn and, of course Alpha Company (Scottish) will transfer to 5 Brigade. This concludes a long history going back to WW1 whereby 17 Bn and 30 Bn have been members of 8 Brigade. CAPT Sharkey did provide the welcome news that members of Alpha Company can now wear Balmorals on Parade nights, when they have qualified for them. A Balmoral presentation night is being planned for later in the year.

A new addition to proceedings was the introduction of Scottish Dancers provided by the Argyle Scottish Dancers Group.

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Once again the highlight of the day, the Pipes and Drums recital.

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Followed by the Pipe Major's Toast. Frank was joined by our Pipe Major Gordon Irving, Nick Roelvink, Pipe Major of the Manly-Warringah Pipe Band and our Hoi Captain , Harvey Baden.

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Following the 2016 Reserve Forces Day Parade, the NSW Scottish Regimental Association was again awarded a Cerificate for the Best Association on parade and whilst this Cerificate was accepted by Ian Meek on behalf of the Association at the Reserve Forces Day Council presentation night in the absence of the Association Commander, Derek Bryden, and the Association Sergeant-Major, Don McNiece, advantage was taken by the presence of LTCOL John Moore to present the certificate to Derek and Don.

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The Manly-Warringah Pipe Band, re-named the Manly-Warringah Pipes and Drums for the occasion, has been a magnificent supporter of Reserve Forces Day for many years and LTCOL John Moore took advanbtage of their presence at the lunch to present them with a cheque in appreciation.

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The cheque was received by Drum Major Barry Nicholas, Pipe Major Nick Roelvink and Secretary Piper Vicky Lindsay

And the raffle.

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Some of the winners were:

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Frank introduced a new innovation by arranging for all to participate in singing Auld Lang Syne.

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ANZAC DAY 2017
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We open the ANZAC Day 2017 report with a picture of a "mimi-banner" donated to the Association by the estate of the late LTCOL Bill Crooks MBE. This banner commemorates the New South Scottish Regiments since 1885 - the New South Wales Scottish Rifles and 30th Battalion NSW Scottish Regiment.

The ANZAC Day March in 2017 again followed the Elizabeth St route that has been necessary since George St was closed for installation of light rail. This route is a little shorter than the previous one and and was welcomed by our 65 participants.

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it was pleasing to be supported by several members of Alpha Company (Scottish) this year.

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and our contingent was led by the Scots Old Boys Pipes and Drums for the second year with a promise to so do again next year.

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Photos courtesy of Andrew Murdoch

The ANZAC Day Reunion was held at a new location this year, the Sir Stamford Hotel. This proved to be a popular move not only because it was cheaper but also for the magnificence of the surroundings.

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Every function held by the Association is very well supported by John Ewing who manages to bring a large number of guests, usually female, and who have became famous as "John Ewing's Sisters". This year was no exception except that a larger number than usual were male so the occasion is now known as as the one that was supported by John Ewing's Brothers AND Sisters.

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John Ewing's Brothers and Sisters

Frank Woodhamns welcomed a number of new guests, including Bill Magson, a guest of John Ewing, and a regular guest at our functions. He also welcomwed another of John Ewing's guests who as a boy lived in Holland during World War 2, one of the few, if any others, in the room who had actually experienced life in the battle zone.

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He also welcomed LTCOL John Moore, Ilona Birtha and Lyn Scott , members of the Reserve Forces Day Coiuncil, and LT Tony Hopkins, a serving platoon commander in Alpha Company (Scottish), who was accompanied by Rosemary Endesbury. Tony had also marched with the Association members.

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Tony, Rosemary Frank and Jan

The traditional highlight of the afternoon was the Pipes and Drums who seem to go from strength to strength as shown by the very enthuiastic appreciation and applause of our members and their guests

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The traditional Pipe Major's toast was also celebrated. Frank Woodhams took the opportunity to point out that no Pipe Major throughout the Regiment's history had ever asked for anyhing other than whisky. It is rumoured though that sometime in the diatant past a Dining President had used two decanters - one full of whisky for the Pipe Major and one filled with cold tea for himself

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The afternoon concluded with the raffle, drawn by Rosemary.

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POSTSCRIPT

To show that the Association is alive elsewhere than Sydney, Allan Stevenson sent the follwing picture of the Broken Hill ANZAC Day March and Paul Oates sent one of the march in Boondah Queensland.

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Broken Hill Boondah

POST POSTSCRIPT

To satisfy complaints from our Hoy Captain that our photo galleries seem to ignore him and despite the fact that we managed to sneak a photo in the commentary above we publish the following:

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HARBOUR CRUISE AND AGM 2017

At the risk of making the NSW Scottish web site seem like a politicians's post-election behaviour we have to again break our previous promise not to report on the weather for the 2017 Harbour Cruise. This is because IT RAINED! and it rained all day but did not dampen the Scottish spirits. (Note Scottish not Scotch, we are not sure whether our guests dampened their whisky or not)

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This year Frank Woodhams commandeered a larger vessel, the Captain Cook III, pictured above among the grey clouds. It was just as well he did because a record-breaking 140 members and guests accepted the Association's invitation. The new vessel accommodated everyoine very well with a different configuration of tables that enabled most of us to get a better view of the rainy harbour attractions.

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The crowd boarding The crowd boarding and still boarding

As usual the Pipes and Drums entertained the boarders and bystanders and as usual our photographer showed his incompetence because the Man'O War kept stepping into the picture. The cruise liner at Circular Quay did provide a different backdrop though.

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Tradition followed commencement of the voyage with the Association AGM taking place on the upper deck of the Captain Cook III. Frank Woodhams reported on past and future activity and finances and also announced that in honour of Alpha Company's involvement in overseas operations in East Timor and the Solomon Islands, these activities are now emblazoned on the Association Banner.

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The unveiling of the banner at the AGM A better view of the banner held by CPL Greg Smallwood and PTE Declan Murray of Alpha Coy

Despite the record attendance and contrary to what the pictures below seem to show, the new boat provided ample room for all to ove about and the lunch menu was a great improvement on past cruises.

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As usual the occasion was highlighted by the Pipes and Drums

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Each year the Association makes a donation to the Pipes and Drums to offset the considerable expense incurred by its members in upkeep of uniforms and instruments

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Frank Woodhams and Pipe Major Gordon Irving

In what is now a tradition anongst the many others, Harvey Baden has adopted the role of "Captain OY" to lead us in the response during the playing of th Black Bear. In acknowledgement of his complaint that we rarely show his happy face on the web site we are pleased to do so now and at the same time capture his performance during the Black Bear of the 2017 AGM.

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Prior to the conduct of the raffle, Frank Woodhams takes the opportunity to make a presentation to recognise the contribution of special people and this year in recognition of the high level of support given to the Association and to the Reserve Forces Day Council of Group Commissioner Trent Aylward and the Australian Air League a special presentation was made to CPL Natalie Aylward who has earned the distinction of the Air League's New South Wales Cadet of the Year.

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LTCOL John Moore also took the opportunity to detail the current interest of the Reserve Forces Day Council in the campaign initiated by the Chairman of RFDC, the Hon Tim Fischer AC, to have General Sir John Monash posthumously promoted to the rank of Field Marshal in belated recognition of the vital part General Monash played in the latter stages of WW2, a recognition that was denied to him in the years after 1918. John Moore spoke of the then forthcoming NSW Launch of the Saluting Monash Council that was held in Sydney on March 8

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LTCOL Moore

And then the Raffle

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The Prizes donated by Members And the Prize of Prizes donated by Dulux

Some of the winners were:

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The Dulux Dog was originally won by Colin Boland to the consternation of Clementine von Muenster, the daughter of MAJ Stephen von Muenster the previous OC of Aplha Coy who is now one of our staunchest members and was a great supporter of the Association during his service in Alpha Company. Stephen offered a donation to the Assocation if Colin was prepared to forego his proze, which Colin generously agreed to do.

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Colin, Clementine and her dog

RESERVE FORCES DAY 2018

Reserve Forces Day 2018 was a historic occasion, celebrating the 20th year of the Reserve Forces Day Council. However it was also a sad occasion as it was the final parade. Falling attendances due to various causes, among them the advancing age of many members and the dissolution of a number of Associations, had influenced the Council to terminate the function whilst the number of Associations and marchers had not fallen to an inappropriate level.

The parade was held at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park as it had been for the previous year.

To mark the occasion the Council arranged for photographs to be taken of each of the Associations. Ours is below,

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GEMAS DAY 2018
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Gemas Day continues to be a reminder of the sacrifices and success of the members of 2/30 Battalion and 2/15 Field Regiment who took part in the operation at Gemanceh Bridge on 14 Janury 1942. Sadly almost all of the heroes who were there in 1942 are no longer alive to share our admiration. It is up to us as the surviving generations and members of the Association to carry on the appreciation and respect for this significant event in Australia's military history.

This year 30 members, friends and the Association Pipes and Drums celebrated the occasion at Pymble.

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In its wisdom the Army has prohibited members of Scottish affiliated units from wearing Scottish dress other than when forming catafalque parties. It does, however, seem fitting that one of the few, if any, occasions when 2/17 Battalion members can wear the kilt is at Gemas Day. Whilst the 2/30 Battalion was not technically affiliated with the The Black Watch, the Battle Honours of the Battalion fell to be preserved by the postwar 30th Battalion NSW Scottish Regiment and it is gratifying to see our traditions carried on by Alpha Company Scottish of 2/17, even if not on as many occasions as we would like.

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Starting in 2017, the 2/30 Battalion Association, feeling the loss of its original members, invited members of our Association to join the march at he Gemas Day ceremony. We were honoured to do so to represent the origtnals. This year we were again honoured with an invitation to carry on the "tradition" of the one year. Of course the Pipes and Drums have been part of the Gemas Day celebrations for many years now.

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A wreath from the Association was laid by Frank Woodhams accompanied by Ian Meek, whilst the Pipes and Drums provided the background.

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Photos courtesy of Andrew Murdoch



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HARBOUR CRUISE AND AGM 2017

At the risk of making the NSW Scottish web site seem like a politicians's post-election behaviour we have to again break our previous promise not to report on the weather for the 2017 Harbour Cruise. This is because IT RAINED! and it rained all day but did not dampen the Scottish spirits. (Note Scottish not Scotch, we are not sure whether our guests dampened their whisky or not)

AGM2017

This year Frank Woodhams commandeered a larger vessel, the Captain Cook III, pictured above among the grey clouds. It was just as well he did because a record-breaking 140 members and guests accepted the Association's invitation. The new vessel accommodated everyoine very well with a different configuration of tables that enabled most of us to get a better view of the rainy harbour attractions.

AGM2017 AGM2017
The crowd boarding The crowd boarding and still boarding

As usual the Pipes and Drums entertained the boarders and bystanders and as usual our photographer showed his incompetence because the Man'O War kept stepping into the picture. The cruise liner at Circular Quay did provide a different backdrop though.

AGM2017

Tradition followed commencement of the voyage with the Association AGM taking place on the upper deck of the Captain Cook III. Frank Woodhams reported on past and future activity and finances and also announced that in honour of Alpha Company's involvement in overseas operations in East Timor and the Solomon Islands, these activities are now emblazoned on the Association Banner.

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The unveiling of the banner at the AGM A better view of the banner held by CPL Greg Smallwood and PTE Declan Murray of Alpha Coy

Despite the record attendance and contrary to what the pictures below seem to show, the new boat provided ample room for all to ove about and the lunch menu was a great improvement on past cruises.

AGM2017 AGM2017 AGM2017

As usual the occasion was highlighted by the Pipes and Drums

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Each year the Association makes a donation to the Pipes and Drums to offset the considerable expense incurred by its members in upkeep of uniforms and instruments

AGM2017
Frank Woodhams and Pipe Major Gordon Irving

In what is now a tradition anongst the many others, Harvey Baden has adopted the role of "Captain OY" to lead us in the response during the playing of th Black Bear. In acknowledgement of his complaint that we rarely show his happy face on the web site we are pleased to do so now and at the same time capture his performance during the Black Bear of the 2017 AGM.

AGM2017

Prior to the conduct of the raffle, Frank Woodhams takes the opportunity to make a presentation to recognise the contribution of special people and this year in recognition of the high level of support given to the Association and to the Reserve Forces Day Council of Group Commissioner Trent Aylward and the Australian Air League a special presentation was made to CPL Natalie Aylward who has earned the distinction of the Air League's New South Wales Cadet of the Year.

AGM2017

LTCOL John Moore also took the opportunity to detail the current interest of the Reserve Forces Day Council in the campaign initiated by the Chairman of RFDC, the Hon Tim Fischer AC, to have General Sir John Monash posthumously promoted to the rank of Field Marshal in belated recognition of the vital part General Monash played in the latter stages of WW2, a recognition that was denied to him in the years after 1918. John Moore spoke of the then forthcoming NSW Launch of the Saluting Monash Council that was held in Sydney on March 8

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LTCOL Moore

And then the Raffle

AGM2017 AGM2017
The Prizes donated by Members And the Prize of Prizes donated by Dulux

Some of the winners were:

AGM2017 AGM2017 AGM2017
AGM2017 AGM2017 AGM2017

The Dulux Dog was originally won by Colin Boland to the consternation of Clementine von Muenster, the daughter of MAJ Stephen von Muenster the previous OC of Aplha Coy who is now one of our staunchest members and was a great supporter of the Association during his service in Alpha Company. Stephen offered a donation to the Assocation if Colin was prepared to forego his proze, which Colin generously agreed to do.

AGM2017
Colin, Clementine and her dog


30 BATTALIONS' CHURCH PARADE 2016

In a previous report we promised that we would not start our future reports by commenting on the weather. So we won't, except to say that it was perfect for the 2016 30 Battalions' Church Parade.

Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Church Parade 2016
The St Stephens Choir under the eye of the 30 Battalion Regimental Standard singing "Where Have All The Flowers Gone?". A most appropriate song for Rememberance Day
Church Parade 2016

The Church service was followed by the now traditional end of year and Christmas lunch at which traditional Christmas fare was served including festive vegetables which tickled the fancy and the appetite of at least one of our guests who proceeded to eat them festively.

Church Parade 2016
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016

Thanks to Don and Brenda McNeice for their festive decoration of the tables.

In the absence of haggis at the Christmas lunch a tradition of Piping in the Pud has developed.

Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Piping in the Pud The Pud

Then, as always, the highlight of the day the Pipes and Drums, whose repertoire once again included new tunes although their performancee of Highland Cathedral needs special mention as it was a special delight for us all.

Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
The Pipes and the Drums

In recognition of his sterling service as the Pud Piper and his piped rendition of Happy Birthday to Eric Maver Bill Wright was elevated to Acting Piper Major for the Toast and toasted the President.

Church Parade 2016

And finally the raffle which does so much under the organisation of Don McNeice and his band of raffle consultants - festive ones this time - to provide funds for the Association. Our thanks to all who donated prizes which were of the usual very high standard.

Church Parade 2016

Some of the lucky winners were (you will note how intense they were in their selection of prizes such was their high standard):

Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Graeme was one of them
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
He wanted to make sure of his choice
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Still looking
RESERVE FORCES DAY 2018

Reserve Forces Day 2018 was a historic occasion, celebrating the 20th year of the Reserve Forces Day Council. However it was also a sad occasion as it was the final parade. Falling attendances due to various causes, among them the advancing age of many members and the dissolution of a number of Associations, had influenced the Council to terminate the function whilst the number of Associations and marchers had not fallen to an inappropriate level.

The parade was held at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park as it had been for the previous year.

To mark the occasion the Council arranged for photographs to be taken of each of the Associations. Ours is below,

RFD 2018


GEMAS DAY 2018
GEMAS

Gemas Day continues to be a reminder of the sacrifices and success of the members of 2/30 Battalion and 2/15 Field Regiment who took part in the operation at Gemanceh Bridge on 14 Janury 1942. Sadly almost all of the heroes who were there in 1942 are no longer alive to share our admiration. It is up to us as the surviving generations and members of the Association to carry on the appreciation and respect for this significant event in Australia's military history.

This year 30 members, friends and the Association Pipes and Drums celebrated the occasion at Pymble.

GEMAS

In its wisdom the Army has prohibited members of Scottish affiliated units from wearing Scottish dress other than when forming catafalque parties. It does, however, seem fitting that one of the few, if any, occasions when 2/17 Battalion members can wear the kilt is at Gemas Day. Whilst the 2/30 Battalion was not technically affiliated with the The Black Watch, the Battle Honours of the Battalion fell to be preserved by the postwar 30th Battalion NSW Scottish Regiment and it is gratifying to see our traditions carried on by Alpha Company Scottish of 2/17, even if not on as many occasions as we would like.

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Starting in 2017, the 2/30 Battalion Association, feeling the loss of its original members, invited members of our Association to join the march at he Gemas Day ceremony. We were honoured to do so to represent the origtnals. This year we were again honoured with an invitation to carry on the "tradition" of the one year. Of course the Pipes and Drums have been part of the Gemas Day celebrations for many years now.

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GEMAS GEMAS

A wreath from the Association was laid by Frank Woodhams accompanied by Ian Meek, whilst the Pipes and Drums provided the background.

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Photos courtesy of Andrew Murdoch



RESERVE FORCES DAY 2017
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Photos by courtesy of the ABC.

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Our happy re-enactment group

Reserve Forces Day 2017 was again held at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park, with the Association members forming up on both sides of the Pool of Remembrance, a very fitting and thought provoking venue.

In the absence of the Governor, who was overseas, the Principal Reviewing Officer was the Lieutenant-Governor of New Soutn Wales, His Excellency the Hon Tom Bathurst AC.

The theme of Reserve Forces Day 2017 continued the Centenary of ANZAC theme by remembering the Mounted Desert Campaign and the Charge at Beersheba in October 1917. The Parade featured the Light Horse by placing them at the northern end of the Pool of Remembrance and by honouring the 1/15th New South Wales Lancers and the 12/16 Hunter River Lancers as representatives of the cavalry that took part in the Charge at Beersheba, the last major mounted cavalry action in history.

A demonstration of the equipment carried by each trooper during the 1917 Mounted Desert Campaign was given by two troopers from the Light Horse Association.

Our Pipes and Drums led a parade of descendants of World War 1 veterans who were presented with medallions by the Chairman of the Reserve Forces Day Council, the Hon Tim Fischer AC, the Chief of Army, Lieutenant-General Angus Campbell DSO AO, the RSM of the Army, Warrant Officer First Class Don Spinks OAM, Rear Admiral the Homourable Justice Michael Slattery RANR, the Judge Advocate General of the Australian Defence Forces. Frank Woodhams, who is also Treasurer of the Reserve Forces Day Council was responsible for the the organisation of the presentation.

Once again our Association was represented on the organising committee of Reserve Forces Day by Frank Woodhams, Ian Meek, the Secretary of the Reserve Forces Day Council , Terry Kennedy who was responsible for the forming up area of the Parade and by Kevin Cram.

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Frank Woodhams welcomed members and their guests to the traditional Formal Lunch that has been held on Reserve Forces Day for many years. The venue again was the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel

In doing so he welcomed special guests, CAPT Pat Sharkey, OC of Alpha Company (Scottish), LTCOL John Moore and Mrs Virginia Moore, Connie Cameron, Fred Nile and Mrs Silvana Nile, Angie Valentine Flint, Jolyon Nove and Marion Howard.

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As usual proceedings commenced with the Address to the Haggis, this time carried out by Eric Maver.

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RFD2017

LTCOL Tony Larnach-Jones spoke to the assembly about the Boer War Memorial in Canberra which has now been opened and thanked the members of the Association and the Reserve Fiorces Day Council for their part in obtaining funds for completion of the project.CAPT Pat Sharkey follwed by describing a restructure of the Reserve whereby 8 Brigade will now become a training unit. 2/17 Bn and, of course Alpha Company (Scottish) will transfer to 5 Brigade. This concludes a long history going back to WW1 whereby 17 Bn and 30 Bn have been members of 8 Brigade. CAPT Sharkey did provide the welcome news that members of Alpha Company can now wear Balmorals on Parade nights, when they have qualified for them. A Balmoral presentation night is being planned for later in the year.

A new addition to proceedings was the introduction of Scottish Dancers provided by the Argyle Scottish Dancers Group.

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RFD2017

Once again the highlight of the day, the Pipes and Drums recital.

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Followed by the Pipe Major's Toast. Frank was joined by our Pipe Major Gordon Irving, Nick Roelvink, Pipe Major of the Manly-Warringah Pipe Band and our Hoi Captain , Harvey Baden.

RFD2017

Following the 2016 Reserve Forces Day Parade, the NSW Scottish Regimental Association was again awarded a Cerificate for the Best Association on parade and whilst this Cerificate was accepted by Ian Meek on behalf of the Association at the Reserve Forces Day Council presentation night in the absence of the Association Commander, Derek Bryden, and the Association Sergeant-Major, Don McNiece, advantage was taken by the presence of LTCOL John Moore to present the certificate to Derek and Don.

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The Manly-Warringah Pipe Band, re-named the Manly-Warringah Pipes and Drums for the occasion, has been a magnificent supporter of Reserve Forces Day for many years and LTCOL John Moore took advanbtage of their presence at the lunch to present them with a cheque in appreciation.

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The cheque was received by Drum Major Barry Nicholas, Pipe Major Nick Roelvink and Secretary Piper Vicky Lindsay

And the raffle.

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Some of the winners were:

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Frank introduced a new innovation by arranging for all to participate in singing Auld Lang Syne.

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ANZAC DAY 2017
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We open the ANZAC Day 2017 report with a picture of a "mimi-banner" donated to the Association by the estate of the late LTCOL Bill Crooks MBE. This banner commemorates the New South Scottish Regiments since 1885 - the New South Wales Scottish Rifles and 30th Battalion NSW Scottish Regiment.

The ANZAC Day March in 2017 again followed the Elizabeth St route that has been necessary since George St was closed for installation of light rail. This route is a little shorter than the previous one and and was welcomed by our 65 participants.

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it was pleasing to be supported by several members of Alpha Company (Scottish) this year.

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and our contingent was led by the Scots Old Boys Pipes and Drums for the second year with a promise to so do again next year.

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Photos courtesy of Andrew Murdoch

The ANZAC Day Reunion was held at a new location this year, the Sir Stamford Hotel. This proved to be a popular move not only because it was cheaper but also for the magnificence of the surroundings.

ANZAC2017

Every function held by the Association is very well supported by John Ewing who manages to bring a large number of guests, usually female, and who have became famous as "John Ewing's Sisters". This year was no exception except that a larger number than usual were male so the occasion is now known as as the one that was supported by John Ewing's Brothers AND Sisters.

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John Ewing's Brothers and Sisters

Frank Woodhamns welcomed a number of new guests, including Bill Magson, a guest of John Ewing, and a regular guest at our functions. He also welcomwed another of John Ewing's guests who as a boy lived in Holland during World War 2, one of the few, if any others, in the room who had actually experienced life in the battle zone.

ANZAC2017

He also welcomed LTCOL John Moore, Ilona Birtha and Lyn Scott , members of the Reserve Forces Day Coiuncil, and LT Tony Hopkins, a serving platoon commander in Alpha Company (Scottish), who was accompanied by Rosemary Endesbury. Tony had also marched with the Association members.

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Tony, Rosemary Frank and Jan

The traditional highlight of the afternoon was the Pipes and Drums who seem to go from strength to strength as shown by the very enthuiastic appreciation and applause of our members and their guests

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The traditional Pipe Major's toast was also celebrated. Frank Woodhams took the opportunity to point out that no Pipe Major throughout the Regiment's history had ever asked for anyhing other than whisky. It is rumoured though that sometime in the diatant past a Dining President had used two decanters - one full of whisky for the Pipe Major and one filled with cold tea for himself

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The afternoon concluded with the raffle, drawn by Rosemary.

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POSTSCRIPT

To show that the Association is alive elsewhere than Sydney, Allan Stevenson sent the follwing picture of the Broken Hill ANZAC Day March and Paul Oates sent one of the march in Boondah Queensland.

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Broken Hill Boondah

POST POSTSCRIPT

To satisfy complaints from our Hoy Captain that our photo galleries seem to ignore him and despite the fact that we managed to sneak a photo in the commentary above we publish the following:

ANZAC2017

HARBOUR CRUISE AND AGM 2017

At the risk of making the NSW Scottish web site seem like a politicians's post-election behaviour we have to again break our previous promise not to report on the weather for the 2017 Harbour Cruise. This is because IT RAINED! and it rained all day but did not dampen the Scottish spirits. (Note Scottish not Scotch, we are not sure whether our guests dampened their whisky or not)

AGM2017

This year Frank Woodhams commandeered a larger vessel, the Captain Cook III, pictured above among the grey clouds. It was just as well he did because a record-breaking 140 members and guests accepted the Association's invitation. The new vessel accommodated everyoine very well with a different configuration of tables that enabled most of us to get a better view of the rainy harbour attractions.

AGM2017 AGM2017
The crowd boarding The crowd boarding and still boarding

As usual the Pipes and Drums entertained the boarders and bystanders and as usual our photographer showed his incompetence because the Man'O War kept stepping into the picture. The cruise liner at Circular Quay did provide a different backdrop though.

AGM2017

Tradition followed commencement of the voyage with the Association AGM taking place on the upper deck of the Captain Cook III. Frank Woodhams reported on past and future activity and finances and also announced that in honour of Alpha Company's involvement in overseas operations in East Timor and the Solomon Islands, these activities are now emblazoned on the Association Banner.

AGM2017 AGM2017
The unveiling of the banner at the AGM A better view of the banner held by CPL Greg Smallwood and PTE Declan Murray of Alpha Coy

Despite the record attendance and contrary to what the pictures below seem to show, the new boat provided ample room for all to ove about and the lunch menu was a great improvement on past cruises.

AGM2017 AGM2017 AGM2017

As usual the occasion was highlighted by the Pipes and Drums

AGM2017 AGM2017

Each year the Association makes a donation to the Pipes and Drums to offset the considerable expense incurred by its members in upkeep of uniforms and instruments

AGM2017
Frank Woodhams and Pipe Major Gordon Irving

In what is now a tradition anongst the many others, Harvey Baden has adopted the role of "Captain OY" to lead us in the response during the playing of th Black Bear. In acknowledgement of his complaint that we rarely show his happy face on the web site we are pleased to do so now and at the same time capture his performance during the Black Bear of the 2017 AGM.

AGM2017

Prior to the conduct of the raffle, Frank Woodhams takes the opportunity to make a presentation to recognise the contribution of special people and this year in recognition of the high level of support given to the Association and to the Reserve Forces Day Council of Group Commissioner Trent Aylward and the Australian Air League a special presentation was made to CPL Natalie Aylward who has earned the distinction of the Air League's New South Wales Cadet of the Year.

AGM2017

LTCOL John Moore also took the opportunity to detail the current interest of the Reserve Forces Day Council in the campaign initiated by the Chairman of RFDC, the Hon Tim Fischer AC, to have General Sir John Monash posthumously promoted to the rank of Field Marshal in belated recognition of the vital part General Monash played in the latter stages of WW2, a recognition that was denied to him in the years after 1918. John Moore spoke of the then forthcoming NSW Launch of the Saluting Monash Council that was held in Sydney on March 8

AGM2017
LTCOL Moore

And then the Raffle

AGM2017 AGM2017
The Prizes donated by Members And the Prize of Prizes donated by Dulux

Some of the winners were:

AGM2017 AGM2017 AGM2017
AGM2017 AGM2017 AGM2017

The Dulux Dog was originally won by Colin Boland to the consternation of Clementine von Muenster, the daughter of MAJ Stephen von Muenster the previous OC of Aplha Coy who is now one of our staunchest members and was a great supporter of the Association during his service in Alpha Company. Stephen offered a donation to the Assocation if Colin was prepared to forego his proze, which Colin generously agreed to do.

AGM2017
Colin, Clementine and her dog


30 BATTALIONS' CHURCH PARADE 2016

In a previous report we promised that we would not start our future reports by commenting on the weather. So we won't, except to say that it was perfect for the 2016 30 Battalions' Church Parade.

Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Church Parade 2016
The St Stephens Choir under the eye of the 30 Battalion Regimental Standard singing "Where Have All The Flowers Gone?". A most appropriate song for Rememberance Day
Church Parade 2016

The Church service was followed by the now traditional end of year and Christmas lunch at which traditional Christmas fare was served including festive vegetables which tickled the fancy and the appetite of at least one of our guests who proceeded to eat them festively.

Church Parade 2016
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016

Thanks to Don and Brenda McNeice for their festive decoration of the tables.

In the absence of haggis at the Christmas lunch a tradition of Piping in the Pud has developed.

Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Piping in the Pud The Pud

Then, as always, the highlight of the day the Pipes and Drums, whose repertoire once again included new tunes although their performancee of Highland Cathedral needs special mention as it was a special delight for us all.

Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
The Pipes and the Drums

In recognition of his sterling service as the Pud Piper and his piped rendition of Happy Birthday to Eric Maver Bill Wright was elevated to Acting Piper Major for the Toast and toasted the President.

Church Parade 2016

And finally the raffle which does so much under the organisation of Don McNeice and his band of raffle consultants - festive ones this time - to provide funds for the Association. Our thanks to all who donated prizes which were of the usual very high standard.

Church Parade 2016

Some of the lucky winners were (you will note how intense they were in their selection of prizes such was their high standard):

Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Graeme was one of them
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
He wanted to make sure of his choice
Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016 Church Parade 2016
Still looking


ASSOCIATION ACTIVITY AFTER 2014