Laugh from the past

I wonder if any readers, being ex members of the ship’s company of HMAS Australia in 1950-51 would remember an incident that happened one evening as we were preparing to watch a film on the mid-ship space.

ADML (Ginger) Morrow and our distinguished guest Bob Menzies had kept us waiting for over half an hour, no doubt in the Wardroom having a wet.

We were steaming up from Sydney towards the north, going somewhere to drop Mr Menzies off.

Finally the two arrived. The lights went out as they took their seats. Then a loud bellow came from the dark, “Did you pay your zack Menzies?”. There were torches going everywhere to no avail. The phantom had struck again.
It cost sixpence (zack) to attend. I bet he didn’t pay.

Russell Beard, Tasmania

Call for cadet items

I am collecting memorabilia to estalish a military cadet museum.

As historian for the AAC I receive more than just army cadet items. I have a naval cadet uniform and a photograph of a group of naval cadets with ‘SEA CADET CORPS’ on the tally band. I am seeking donations of any naval cadet items for display particularly a Sea Cadet Corps tally band.

Capt John Muir
(03) 5486 2630
McNair Lane, Lockington VIC 3563

Lost cook

I was in the RAN in 1995 and would like to find a friend’s where abouts please. He was an Able Seaman Cook, Graham Foster when I left the Navy.

David Martin ex ABCK
oobakeep@ozemail.com.au

Syd-Hobart disappointment

As a former member and keen naval yachtsman with Syd/Hob experience, it was sad to see the article about the Navy's break with the Sydney to Hobart.

Not knowing the circumstances and what the 'Waterways Standards' were, it is hard to comment but surely it is in the interest of the CYC that the Services’ connection with the race is maintained and all possible steps taken to make sure the Navy is there on the start line.

It must also be remembered that the Navy was there in the disastrous 1998 race risking their necks for us yachties.

Last year a number of boats registered with RANSA were in the race and I am surprised that RANSA didn't ensure that the Navy presence was maintained in some way or other.

David Rees
david_rees@pillar.com.au

Navy Internet proves big hit

The Navy internet site has been a resounding success with an average of 1.2 million hits to the site every month and lots of positive feedback.

One of the most popular pages at the moment is HMAS Darwin’s home page which had information on what the ship did over the Christmas period.

Some of the messages given to us for our sailors are reproduced below:

I wish to inform service men and women that despite the opposition to Australia’s involvement in Iraq, we support our defence forces who are risking their lives for their country. All personnel, please take care and return to Australian safe and unharmed. We wish you well.

G’day hope all is well with you guys... doing a great job...cheers.

Good luck for serving our country Australia. Be safe and come home soon.
Thank you for defending our country, we really appreciate it back home.

Stay safe - Australia awaits your return home.

You are in my thoughts. Keep safe and give ‘em what for.

As you head off to God only knows what, I want to wish you all well and a safe and speedy return. But do know, regardless of whether you end up in battle for your nation, you’re already heroes by having the pride and respect for your country and it’s people to put your lives on the line for the rest of us to begin with. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

SO Navy Internet,
CPO Russ Graystone,
russell.graystone@defence.gov.au

The opinions expressed in letters to the editor do not represent the views of the editor or the Navy. Sailors wishing to air their views through letters to the editor have access to the newspaper without using the chain of command. Letters may be edited. Preference will be given to letters of fewer than 300 words. The letter will be published only when it includes the author’s name, unit (where applicable), location and contact number. If the author has a genuine reason for remaining anonymous, he or she must still provide details to allow Navy Newspaper staff members to discuss the matter. Send your letters to:
The Editor — Navy Newspaper
R8-LG-039
Department of Defence, Canberra 2600; or email to:
navynews@defencenews.gov.au

.