80th Anniversary Lunch
Celebrating the Formation of the NGVR
Our 80th Anniversary Commemoration Service and Luncheon celebrating the formation of NGVR was held on a warm sunny windy day at Wacol on Saturday 7 September. Over 60 members and friends attended. Speakers included Patron Major General John Pearn, Padre Ron MacDonald. Vice-president Bob Collins and President Phil Ainsworth. It was an informal event with much time allocated for meeting and talking with fellow members, friends and guests.
The day commenced with morning tea at 10am in the Everyman’s Hut, having a get-together chat and listening to the Brisbane Salvation Army Band, followed by a service in the Chapel organised by Association Chaplain Ron MacDonald. The service was meaningful, with addresses by the Salvation Army, Association Patron Maj Gen John Pearn AO. RFD. Again the Salvation Army Band was in attendance with appropriate music for hymns.
Then came a great luncheon, prepared by the Caterers. During the luncheon Assn President Phil Ainsworth welcomed everyone, emphasising the importance of the 80th Anniversary, and specially introducing descendants of NGVR soldiers. Assn Vice President Bob Collins gave an address on the background to the formation of the NGVR. their role and achievements. This was followed by appropriate toasts and the balance of the lunch, sweets, coffee etc.
After allowing time for friendly conversation at the tables, the group visited the Museum where they were shown through by our PNGVR personnel familiar with the exhibits.
Overall it was a most successful day and congratulations go to the organising committee, Colin Gould. Paul Brown, Kieran Nelson and other Committee Members, and also to Assn Chaplain Ron MacDonald and his wife Cheryl for their great organisation of the Chapel service. Thanks also go to the Old National Servicemen's Association for use of the Everyman's Hut and the Chapel on the day.
The day commenced with morning tea at 10am in the Everyman’s Hut, having a get-together chat and listening to the Brisbane Salvation Army Band, followed by a service in the Chapel organised by Association Chaplain Ron MacDonald. The service was meaningful, with addresses by the Salvation Army, Association Patron Maj Gen John Pearn AO. RFD. Again the Salvation Army Band was in attendance with appropriate music for hymns.
Then came a great luncheon, prepared by the Caterers. During the luncheon Assn President Phil Ainsworth welcomed everyone, emphasising the importance of the 80th Anniversary, and specially introducing descendants of NGVR soldiers. Assn Vice President Bob Collins gave an address on the background to the formation of the NGVR. their role and achievements. This was followed by appropriate toasts and the balance of the lunch, sweets, coffee etc.
After allowing time for friendly conversation at the tables, the group visited the Museum where they were shown through by our PNGVR personnel familiar with the exhibits.
Overall it was a most successful day and congratulations go to the organising committee, Colin Gould. Paul Brown, Kieran Nelson and other Committee Members, and also to Assn Chaplain Ron MacDonald and his wife Cheryl for their great organisation of the Chapel service. Thanks also go to the Old National Servicemen's Association for use of the Everyman's Hut and the Chapel on the day.
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Below is the address on the NGVR given by Bob Collins
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Association Patron Maj Gen John Pearn AO. RFD., wife Vena, Bob Collins.
President Phil Ainsworth and Andrea Williams
Peter Rogers DFC. and wife Susie
Vivienne Rogers and son Peter. Vivienne's father Horace (Horrie) Harris served in the NGVR.
Association Facebook Master Kieran Nelson and wife Margo
Association Chaplain Ron MacDonald and wife Cheryl
Ken Cheung AM., Elaine Hui, David Hui. Ken's story of his escape from Bougainville by submarine in 1942 is told in Harim Tok Tok Vols 111/112.
Assn Vice President Bob Collins giving an address on the history and achievements of the NGVR
Marie Zimmerman, Doug and Fran Ng
Lisa Adams and Ian Thompson
R. Jessica Harrington
Mike Griffin, Ralph and Lilly Seeto
Mr & Mrs Simon Hui, Mrs Ken Cheung
Vivienne Rogers, whose father, Horrie Harris was NGVR, Tony Boulter
Gerry McGrade, ? , ?.
Alex Garlin, NSAAQ President, Colin Gould
Barry Wright, Norm Mundy
Lisa Adams, Steve who volunteered as Barman.
