Hervey Bay RSL Life Club Magazine Dec-Mar 2023

In the blink of an eye 2022 has flown by and here we are again, preparing the RSL, Salt Café and The Clubhousetohostoursold-outtraditionalChristmas Daylunches.

TheDecember-Januaryperiodisajoyfultimeandwe hope patrons enjoy everythingwe have to offer at all our venues, especially with New Year's Eve and AustraliaDayalsofastapproaching.

Patrons will have the chance to win a brand-new MG Car, plus a share of $3000 cash. The car and cash will bedrawnonDecember31sosomeluckypatronswill haveafabulousstarttotheNewYear!

Join us for all the dazzle of our New Year's Eve celebrations with raffles, other cash prizes up for grabsandliveentertainmentuntillate.

There are no public holiday surcharges at the RSL and The Clubhouse on these days but be sure to make a booking online or by phoning the club as seats will fillquickly

The RSL Giving Tree will take pride of place in reception once again this year with members and guests encouraged to place a gift under the tree or buy a bauble, with funds going to members of our communitythataredoingittough.Findoutmoreon Page4andpage17.

We also look forward to the annual Hervey Bay RSL Carols by Candlelight at Seafront Oval on December 10 which is supported by a $12,000 RSL Community Grant.Christmasisaboutbringingfamilyandfriends together and we hope this gift to the community will dojustthatatthemuch-lovedevent.

Our highly anticipated Melbourne Cup function was agreatsuccesswithasold-outcrowdenjoyingallthe fashions,funandfrivolitythatthecolourfulcupdayis knownfor.

It was also wonderful to see a crowd of about 600 people turn out for the Remembrance Day service at theFreedomParkcenotaphonNovember11.

The day has been observed in Commonwealth memberstatessincetheendoftheFirstWorldWarto remember the members of their armed forces who diedinthelineofduty.

The commemorations continued back at the RSL withabout280plusservicemenandwomenhavinga chat and raising a glass to fallen mates over a lovely lunchinHerveyHouse.

There have been some exciting developments at The Clubhouse with works on the new car park almost finished This will allow for an additional 72 spaces for the use of golfers and Clubhousepatrons

The Truro Street development was given the green lightbycouncilandworkshavenowstartedonStage 1's 18-hole Mini Golf course. There will be a 150sqm reception area and a licensed café Works are expectedtobecompletedin2023.

The 240kw roof solar system has started with consultants reviewing the finer details to get this projectonthewayandwearehopingtostartpriorto Christmasifnotcertainlyearlyin2023.

PatronswhodriveElectricVehicleswillalsobethrilled to hear that the RSL has been given approval for Stage 1 under the Qld Govt EV Infrastructure Grant Scheme toplaceEVchargingstations in thecarpark. Whilstthisprojectwilltakesometimeitisenvisioned to have this up and running sometime next year. There is only one other public charging station in Hervey Bay so we believe this will be a great asset to theregion.

Last but certainly not least, we were honoured to win the Best Club and Dining award at the prestigious Fraser Coast Business & Tourism Awards, as well as a Highly Commended for Salt Café and the Comfort Inn on Main. It's wonderful to see our staff praised for their hard work and dedication to excellent customer service.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish all our members and guests a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. See you at the Club!

Ray Eustace AFSM, Club President

OUT & ABOUT AT

YOUR CLUB

THERE’S been lots of laughs and good times in Hervey House over the past few months with soldout functions and live shows.

The laughs were aplenty with the hilarious Confe and Chaos Theatre Restaurant where the audience was invited to the wedding recepon with pandemonium that no one expected!

Melbourne Cup Day was of course a glamourous occasion, patrons were pumped for the Eagels Tribute show and there was lots of love shown for the dad's in our lives on Father's Day. Our aenon is now turned to the fesve season with Christmas Day, New Year's Celebraons and Australia Day to look forward to.

Congratulations to all our budding young artists whose Halloween colouring in competition works were second to none with lots of shades and colours

Congratulations to our winning member Ian after winning one of the awesome Father's Day raffles There was also six other lucky winners who walkedawaywithanesky filled with goodies for Dad Congratulations to allourwinners!

It was a night to remember at the Eagels Tribute Band show with a sold-out show and plenty of the Eagles legendary tunes to take the audience back to the 70s.

Confetti & Chaos Theatre Restaurant gave us lots of laughs and plenty of chaos, as our guests enjoyed a wedding with a twist!

The weather wasn't too kind in Hervey Bay for the Melbourne Cup but thankfully, unlike Flemington Race Course, there wasn’t a poncho in sight for the glamourous crowd that aended the RSL for our highly ancipated cup day lunch.

Patrons were high and dry in Hervey House with some colourful characters enjoying cup sweeps, fashion on the fields prizes and a delicious lunch

lounge cafe

Open 9.30am till late every day!

Our menu is full of delicious appetisers, light meals, burgers, pizzas, fresh salads, all day breakfasts and of course our great coffees.

We also have specialty juices made fresh to order - perfect for a hot summer day! Or maybe a cold beer or wine to accompany your meal. If you're a regular make sure you use your RSL Membership card to get every 6th coffee for free.

There is always something new to try at Poppies Café with a new chefs special every week, plus a specialty beverage of the week. Check our specials TV behind the counter for the current specials.

The perfect spot to catch up with friends at any time of the day.

Monday 5.00pm - 9.00pm

Tuesday 5.00pm - 9.00pm

Wednesday 5.00pm - 9.00pm

Thursday 5.00pm - 9.00pm

Friday 5.00pm - 9.30pm

Saturday 11am - 3pm & 5pm - 9.30pm Sunday 10.30am - 3pm & 5pm - 9pm

COMMUNITY SUPPORT TO TRANSFORM LIVES

For 11 of those years, the Hervey Bay RSL has been assisting the not-forprofit organisation in many ways including grants for new furniture, uniforms for their vegetable production team and most recently, a grant of $10,000 for a new refrigerated Toyota Ute with signwriting.

Men and women come from all over Australia to get recovery and the program provides evidence based, peer to peer supported community service that helps people recover from mental health and drug and alcohol addiction related issues.

The founding team, including Darren Yates and Tina Davie, started the notfor-profit centre with nothing in the bank and only recently received a small amount of Government Funding.

The men and women pay 80% of their Centrelink income to take part in the

BAYSIDE Transformations has offered a 32-bed, alcohol and other drug and mental health recovery program in Hervey Bay for the past 12 years.

program and the rest of the organisation's outgoings are paid by fundraising, donations, grants, and profits from business ventures like the very successful Bayside Vegies.

The vegetable kitchen operates on site under strict health and safety guidelines and is run by a team of seven paid staff and a component of unpaid labour with residents doing part of their work therapy in the kitchen.

Production Manager and fully qualified chef Claus Huber is the team's leader.

“During their work therapy they do about 13 hours a week spread over four days and learn things like basic hygiene, following directions, work ethics and not leaving tasks half finished, working in a team and sorting out differences in a proper way,” Claus said

“We teach them about nutrition and to cook for themselves, keep fit and get in touch with their spirituality.”

When the vegetable business first started 11 years ago, Claus approached the RSL to be a client and the rest is history.

He and the team now work closely with RSL head chef Mick Mielczarek to deliver fresh sliced, diced and chopped vegetables to the club five days a week.

In total, the team now service 30 customers across Hervey Bay, Maryborough, and Bundy, which is why the new refrigerated Ute was needed so desperately.

“The new Ute is just fantastic and we can't thank the RSL enough!

“When you turn up somewhere you don't have signwriting hanging off and

peeling; it now looks like a professional business delivering the products.”

The Ute gets a good work out delivering tonnes of vegetables to local clubs, hotels, restaurants, cafes, catering companies and aged care homes.

“We send out anywhere between 3 ½ to 4 ½ tonnes of processed vegetables on a weekly basis. It's quite a lot,” Claus said.

“Last financial year we did 75 tonnes of potatoes that were peeled, portioned, diced, or sliced and delivered out.”

STRENGTH IN EXERCISE

HAND-PICKED FOR FUTSAL TOUR

The team received $3500 to help cover the cost of uniforms and tournament fees to the highly anticipated competition in Brisbane recently and they didn’t let the region down.

Coach Grant Yeatman said the financial assistance helped the team achieve some incredible results.

“Our team put in an amazing effort and performed well against very strong opposition with 3 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses,” Grant said.

“We ended in a points tie forcing the decision to come down to goal difference to make the quarter finals… unfortunately, we missed out!

“It is such a huge privilege to be asked to represent your state, but it is

not an easy financial feat for families.

“They players did the work and got recognised for their talents and the grant gave them the opportunity to compete. The entire team are very grateful.”

Although it was sad the team didn't make the quarter final, Grant said there was a surprise for the players at the end of the day.

“Although a disappointing end for a very capable team we have since returned home to find out that several of our players were picked out by scouts to form part of the Australian team that will tour Fiji in July 2023!

“This will be a fantastic opportunity to further develop their skills and game.”

The Hervey Bay RSL and Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch have joined forces to help a local ex-serviceman in need with a special $1800 community grant.

Brady Jocumsen was on top of the world when he joined the Navy in 2015 where he spent the next seven years becoming a Marine Technician and completed his trade certificate as a mechanical engineer, including diesel fitting.

He was strong, fit, and ready to take on the challenges the Navy threw at him. Unfortunately, that high spirit wasn't enough for Brady to keep going when medical issues and mental health problems arose.

He was medically discharged from service in 2021 after suffering conditions like chronic insomnia, social anxiety disorder, spinal and knee injuries and Major Depressive Order and as a result of treatment for this, morbid obesity.

Going from someone who was active and fit to being overweight has been incredibly hard for the 30-year-old.

Brady wanted to make change happen, so he applied to the Hervey Bay RSL Community Grants program to cover the cost of a rowing machine.

He not only had a goal of losing weight and gaining his fitness back, but also a dream of having a shot at being selected to attend the Canadian Winter Games on Prince Edward Island in 2023. This event would be steppingstone to then going on to compete at the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver.

The rower now takes pride of place in Brady's loungeroom and after only three weeks since it was delivered, he has lost six kilos

“I really enjoy it and its low impact. There is still a long way to go but I am getting there,” Brady said.

He said a big positive with having the machine at home is that he doesn't need to pluck up the courage to go to gym and it's there whenever he feels a spark to exercise Brady said he's so thankful to the RSL and the RSL Sub-Branch for the generous donation.

“Financially it has been quite difficult for me since leaving defence and I wouldn't have been able to afford this otherwise.

“A big thank you to RSL and Sub-Branch for their support.”

THE Hervey Bay RSL and Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch have joined forces to help a local ex-serviceman in need with a special $1800 community grant.

A TEAM of seven local Under 10s Futsal players that were selected to attend the National Schools Futsal Tournament has proudly been supported by the Hervey Bay RSL Community Grants program.

COMMUNITY

POSITIVITY IN PICTURES

The Hervey Bay resident served in the Air force for 17 years as an Aircraft Life Support Fitter where he ensured parachutes, life rafts, helmets, oxygen masks, and other imperative safety equipment was in good working order.

It was during active service in Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, that Mark endured an incident that led to Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD) and prior to that, he suffered the onset of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) – a rare disease of the nervous system.

His illness coupled with the PTSD became all too much, and Mark was medically discharged from service in 2005

With a rapid decline in his health, it was a distressing time for the veteran who had once led a highly active military life.

Mark now suffers from short-term memory loss, sensory issues and tremors, spasms, jerky movements,

FIELD OF DREAMS

FROM a young age Breanna Taylor just wanted to be like her dad and put on a maroon and gold uniform to play for Queensland at the Hockey Nationals.

This year, that dream became a reality for the 13-year-old Hervey Bay resident.

With a little bit of help from a $500 RSL Community Grant and a whole lot of dedicated training over the years, mum Carrie said she couldn't be prouder of her daughter being selected to attend the U13 Hockey Nationals in Hobart recently.

“All her hard work and dedication over the years has paid off,” Carrie said “This amazing opportunity will help Breanna in so many ways from building her confidence, maturing her, and assisting her in her goal of one day playing for Australia through hard work and dedication to the sport that she loves.

“Breanna had a fantastic carnival with her Qld Embers finishing 4th out of 12 teams, which is a great achievement for these young girls with their team also being awarded the Play the Whistle award; given to the team who demonstrates great team

and problems walking.

(CONTINUED)

However, Mark started taking photos of wildlife in the backyard of his Dundowran home and quickly grew in confidence, enough to go to the nearby beach and surrounding lagoon in his beach trike or 4×4 camouflaged wheelchair.

His service dog, a border collie, by his side always.

The exquisite images of birds, snakes, wild horses, turtles and more adorn the walls of the family home, and hundreds of images take pride of place on the aptly named “Mark's photos to help reshape my mind” Facebook page.

He also started an online photography microbusiness called markgrimsleyphotos.com.au.

Another big achievement to date is collating his images into a pop-up exhibition that was recently on show

for a month at Gatakers Artspace during Mental Health Week.

Mark also went out of his comfort zone to present educational talks on FND and strategies he has used to overcome depression and lack of connection Both the Hervey Bay RSL and the Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch helped Mark bring the exhibition to fruition with a $2900 Community Grant that covered the cost of printing and framing the images, liability insurance and a promotional banner.

Mark said the month-long exhibition was a fantastic way to display his achievements.

“I never thought that I would ever see my work on display, and it was just amazing,” Mark said.

“The first day I went I was almost in tears. I was blown away by how the images came out.

“Without the grant this just wouldn't have happened.”

The exhibition also had a strong focus on giving hope to others living with a disability.

“I never thought that I would have the confidence to speak proudly about this disability, that has taken charge of my life for so many years.

“This is a purpose that I'd never thought I'd find again. I can grab the camera now and just go exploring and it's amazing!”

All are welcome at the FND Support Group's monthly meet-up at the Hervey Bay RSL.

All are welcome at the FND Support Group's monthly meet-up at the Hervey Bay RSL.

CRAFTY WAY OF GIVING BACK

The team of about 20 ladies put in endless hours of creating for those who need it most including dementia, renal and cancer patients at the Hervey Bay and Maryborough Hospitals and local nursing homes

They are all made in exactly the same pattern, so the kids all have the same bear.

sportsmanship on and off the field.

“Breanna was also given an award from her coaches for most improved in her team over the 11 games they played of hockey.”

Carrie said the community grants program was a great asset to the region and confidence booster to the young athletes who are supported.

“This type of assistance helps students believe in themselves and that they can achieve their goals by receiving the assistance to go and play in these top-level championships against other high-quality athletes around the country.

“Not too many kids get the opportunity to represent their state in the sport they love.”

The grant assisted Breanna in attending the training camp, buying the compulsory uniform, flights, team levy fees and accommodation.

The residents and patients are recipients of quilts, blankets, shawls, welcome worms, beanies, and for the dementia patients, big soft bears with a pocket for a heat pack.

Group Leader Annette Kitchener said the look on the recipients' faces is priceless.

“When we deliver them, we don't even have a chance to give them out, they just come up and grab them.

“They come with a little pocket for a heat pack and at the end of the day the nurses have to go around and check the pockets because the residents have put a bit of biscuit or sandwich in there,” she said with a laugh.

By the time school starts next year the team will have 400 very popular Handmade Read Bears and 213 Welcome Worms ready to distribute to Year 1 and Prep students at local schools to improve reading skills and parent-child interaction.

The Read Bears Project is an initiative of the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre.

The bears come with a tag so that the child can personalise their cuddly friend with a name, then take them home and read to them every night of the school term.

“We put a little poem that goes with the worm, and we give them to the kids to welcome them to school and being their first day, it's something they can have to reassure them,” Annette said.

“The bears have improved the kids' reading by about 80% because they have to read to the bear every night.”

The funds to make all the donated goodies are raised from the group's stall at the Torquay Markets and even then, the “reject” bears that were made in different patterns are handed out to children for free.

A Hervey Bay RSL Community Grant of $1500 has allowed the ladies to continue their charity work and a donation of some fabric poppies left over from Anzac Day has helped make some colourful quilts and blankets.

The moment Mark Grimsley picked up a camera three years ago his life changed for the better

THE Fraser Coast would be lost without the start-up of the Fraser Coast Artslink Creative Crafters 12 months ago.

A $10,000 community grant has allowed AFL Queensland staff to deliver programs at four local schools including Hervey Bay Special School, Bayside Christian College, Pialba State School, and Howard State School, along with delivering clinics for additional classes.

SWIMMING FOR THE STARS

CONGRATULATIONS to Hervey Bay’s Cooper Roberts who recently competed at the 2022 Australian Swimming Championships!

Being selected to compete in the Queensland team for the national sporting event was a huge achievement for the 10-year-old who has only been swimming competitively for one year.

Under the watchful eye of Fraser Coast Swimming Club Coach Liz Kopacz, Copper placed 4th in the individual 100m butterfly, 4th in the team handicapped relay 10-12 years and 7th in the 200m medley relay in the 10 years age group.

The Hervey Bay RSL was proud to help Cooper get to this competition with a $500 community grant, which covered the cost of the compulsory Queensland Swim Team uniform.

Cooper's mum Jessica Roberts said attending the competition was a terrific learning experience for such a young swimmer.

“This benefited Cooper by providing

ENCOURAGING PLAY TIME

Programs were provided to 300 plus kids over six weeks.

Wide Bay Participation, Programs and Competitions Lead Kieron Hyndman said the community was grateful for the funding and the opportunity it has provided. He said the benefits of taking part in the sport are endless.

“Many of the participants in these programs would not have been able to take part without this funding,” he said.

“The NAB AFL Auskick program provides a fun safe and social environment for kids to learn the different skills of AFL and incorporates gross motor skills, spatial awareness, and social interaction in a fun learning

environment.

“The overall benefits of the program also include general health and wellbeing after a covid impacted few years, the skills and fun games can also be mirrored at home or during students' lunchtimes.

“Exposing kids to a game they may not have experienced and also showing the pathway to their local community football club will also help to strengthen connections between the club and local schools.”

Kieron said the program also provided exposure to the local AFL clubs, encouraging both parents and students to become

involved in local ongoing community sport clubs.

“The value of inclusion in community clubs is significant and we aim to transition more school students and families to clubs and have regular social and sporting events to attend to build community networks.

“AFL Queensland strives to be the most accessible and inclusive sport.”

The RSL also assisted with local AFL events this year including the end of season Footy4Fun Carnival. In 2021, The Hervey Bay RSL provided also $3000 towards regional Schools Cup winners traveling to semi-finals.

him the opportunity to compete at a national level and to gain experience on an elite level,” Jessica said.

“Hopefully this will encourage other swimmers in our region to join a swimming club or surf club and commit to the sport, encourage young and upcoming swimmers to continue their learn to swim classes and be water safe.”

Well done, Cooper!

THIS GROUP WAS MADE FOR WALKING

The marquee was purchased with the help of a Hervey Bay RSL Community Grant of $1600 but its purpose is not just for shade.

The highly visible tent with the walk and talk logos on the top is a statement to the community that the not-for-profit organisation is here to support men with physical, social and mental health issues through physical activities and social interaction.

Organiser Shane Bradbury said the aim of the group was to provide an environment that was positive, supportive and inclusive, where there's no pressure and no barriers to entry, just an opportunity to walk, talk and support.

STANDING tall at the Queensland Mental Health Week Community Event in Scarness Park recently was the Men’s Walk and Talk marquee.

“We want to make it OK to talk and for men to ask for help if they need it,” Shane said.

“We want our men to become strong role models for their children, families and communities.

“We are extremely happy with the marquee and cannot thank the RSL enough for their financial assistance with this important acquisition for our group.

“It will be put to good use at future events and allow us to plan new activities and locations which we previously could not.”

To find out more about this group visit menswalkherveybay.com.au.

The Hervey Bay RSL Community Grants Program has seen primary school students from around the region kicking goals in this year's AFL Queensland NAB AFL Auskick programs.

THE GIFT OF GIVING

The Giving Tree has been an important addition to festive celebrations here at the RSL for the past two years with hundreds of gifts and donations being given to those in our community who need it most.

Once again, gifts placed under the tree will be collected by the Hervey Bay Christian Ministers Association, who will link with local chaplains and local relief agencies and churches to distribute to underprivileged Fraser Coast residents.

Baubles with the value of $5, $10 and $20 will also be available so patrons can make a monetary donation if they wish.

We encourage the gift of giving under the tree for all ages including children, teenagers, men, women, and the elderly.

The funds collected from buying a bauble will go towards buying food, gifts and vouchers from local businesses or specific items that people need most.

All gifts must be new and left unwrapped or placed in a gift bag with the age group and appropriate gender marked on the tag.

Gifts can be placed under the giving tree until Friday, December 16.

MAKING WAVES IN NOOSA

A CLAUS FOR CELEBRATION

IN 1937, popular radio presenter for 3KZ Norman Banks was walking through St Kilda, Victoria when he spotted an elderly woman whose face lit up while singing carols alone on Christmas Eve.

The scene gave him an idea: what if, rather than singing carols alone, people could come together, ensuring no one spent Christmas Eve by themselves? The event would be called 'Carols by Candlelight'

The Australian tradition is well and truly alive in Hervey Bay with a 7000-strong crowd expected to come together for the annual Hervey Bay RSL Carols by Candlelight on December 10.

The Hervey Bay RSL Community Grants program has supported the much-loved event for many years and organiser Luke Strochnetter couldn't be more thankful for this year's grant of $12,000 to help cover running costs.

The sponsorship also includes a huge amount of in-kind support including staff hours to manage financials, tea, coffee and sandwiches for volunteers during set-up, funds towards hiring security, etc.

allows us to make the event as successful as possible.”

The event is presented by the Hervey Bay Christian Ministers Association and organised by 360 Degrees Marketing and truly promises a night full of festive favourites with the carols program starting with live entertainment on stage before 5pm with the main program running from 6pm-8pm.

The program will be filled to the brim with traditional Carols, fun festive songs, singers and musicians from the community, and all of your favourite Christmas sing-alongs.

We are also expecting a very special guest from the North Pole.

"I encourage everyone to come down to the Oval from 4.30pm and get a spot,” Luke said.

“Bring along a blanket or chairs and support local food vendors and community groups by purchasing some delicious food or feel free bring your own picnic. Candle glow sticks will also be to purchase on the night.”

The RSL courtesy bus, often loaned out to community groups and not-for-profit organisations, didn't have enough seats to get 20 members to the highly anticipated competition so a $300 community grant meant the crew could hire the Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch bus and driver for the day.

Secretary Sharon Roberts said bus trip and the meet were both a great success.

“Peter our driver for the day was great and delivered us safely to and from the event.

“The grant from the RSL was very much appreciated.”

“We are truly grateful to have the support of so many local businesses including the Hervey Bay RSL,” Luke said.

“The Hervey Bay RSL have been the main supporters of The Hervey Bay Carols by Candlelight for over 10 years and we simply wouldn't be able to continue this much loved tradition without their support.

“This event is fully run by volunteers so to have support from the Hervey Bay RSL

The evening will also finish with the Prime Agents Fireworks Finale that will be nothing short of spectacular.

Gates open from 4.30pm with the main program commencing at 6pm.

“I encourage everyone to dress up in their best Christmas outfits and come along for a great night celebrating Christmas and the Birth of Jesus.”

This is a smoke, drug, alcohol and pet free event. You can follow Hervey Bay RSL Carols by Candlelight on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

COMMUNITY PROGRAM 2023

There is always a hive of activity going on at the Hervey Bay RSL with patrons enjoying everything from bingo and functions to cold drinks, great food and a flutter in the TAB or gaming room.

What many don't know is that while they are having a good time out, they are also helping to give back to the Fraser Coast community. The RSL is the only club in Hervey Bay that runs a Community Grants Program, which has seen local sporting clubs, individuals and community groups receive a share of over $900,000 in the last financial year. The grants program celebrates and supports individual achievements and those charities and not-for-profit organisations doing incredible work on the Fraser Coast.

Application forms are available online at herveybayrsl.com.au or by phoning Kerrie Alexander on 41977466.

IT’S beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Hervey Bay RSL with plans well underway for the popular Giving Tree taking pride of place in RSL reception.

A HERVEY BAY RSL Community Grant got the Hervey Bay Humpbacks on the road and delivered safely to their swim meet in Noosa recently

A CALLING TO

serve at sea

DANNY Meredith joined the Navy Cadets in Newcastle as a 12-year old and he knew a career at sea was what he wanted the most.

So, when Danny turned 15 and a half in 1971, the youngest accepted age, he joined the Royal Australian Navy Born in Brisbane, Danny was the middle of three boys who sadly lost their adored mother at the age of four. With their father in the Army, the young boys were sent to a Catholic orphanage where they lived for four years.

Danny described it as the worst time in his life.

Their father married again and took the boys out of the orphanage as soon as he could, and the family moved from place to place until they found a home base in Newcastle

“I was in the Navy Cadets in Newcastle because a couple of the kids at school did it, so I did it to,” Danny said.

“When I joined (the Navy) it was like escaping a rough childhood.”

Danny was a junior recruit for 12 months and on completion of recruit training was posted to HMAS Vampire, a destroyer that was being prepared to be deployed to Vietnam.

Because of his age, Danny was moved to the Troop Carrier HMAS Sydney, also being deployed to Vietnam.

He was a tail gunner on one of the Sydney's Landing Craft by day and polished the passageway floors at night.

“It was a lot safer being on Troop Carrier than a Destroyer at my age,” Danny said.

“But at 17, it was an adventure and I just loved being in the Navy.”

Danny recalls a time at the wharf when South Vietnamese soldiers would randomly open fire at anything floating in the water.

“We had two containers inside the cargo deck of the Landing craft, I was on top of them hooking the crane onto the containers when they started firing.

“I was told when you hear the bullets, take cover! I did between those two containers because there was nowhere else to go.

“They had to pull me out by the feet first,” he said with a laugh.

That was the start of a long and successful 41 years in the Navy with postings to countless ships and the chance to visit many countries.

Danny was trained in the Underwater Weapons category, seagoing disciplinarian (Coxswain), Security Officer, and later advanced to Lieutenant Commander, taking on a welfare management role to look after sailors with compassionate and other specific concerns

the Chief Coxswain on the HMAS Tobruk for the 75th anniversary of Gallipoli where he got to land on ANZAC Cove at dawn.

Danny retired after 29 years of service and started his own business, but it wasn't long before he was back in uniform as a reservist.

He moved back to the Northern Territory where he was asked to take up the role as the manager of reserves in Northern Australia. He couldn't say no!

A role as the President of the Vietnam Veterans Association in the NT also opened doors to becoming a welfare advocate as part of this role Danny remained serving in the Navy in Darwin until he retired for medical reasons in 2012 after 41 years of service.

There was plenty of sacrifices made along the way with failed marriages, Health and Mental Health issues arising.

ON BOARD:

HMAS Supply during the clean up after Cyclone Tracy

HMAS Ibis: A mine sweeper to clear the wrecks in Darwin Harbour after Cyclone Tracy

A change to the Coxswain Branch as a Leading Seaman on the HMAS Kimbla Petty Officer onboard the Patrol Boat HMAS Bendigo in Darwin Danny he spent much of his time as a Bridge Watchkeeper, Medic and Disciplinarian. Command Security Warrant Officer and First Lieutenant at HMAS Kuttabul.

He had nine promotions during his extensive career.

“I started off as an underwater weapons sailor and my job was basically demolitions and using underwater mortar bombs, torpedoes and Ikra missiles.

“At first that was fun stuff but I progressed to seamanship and that's where I preferred to be. You had to be better skilled for a seamanship role.”

He has fond memories of the twoand-a-half years on board the HMAS Kimbla in a seamanship role, doing everything from Oceanographic surveys to recovering F111 Fighter Jets from the bottom of the ocean in New Zealand.

“It was a Boom Defence ship built in the 50s and had a top speed of about eight knots on a good day with a tail wind. It was one of my favourites.”

A highlight of his career was being

But Danny says he will never regret serving in the Navy and serving his country.

“I had some really good times in the Navy and of course there was some bad times to, but the best thing was the camaraderie. The mateship!

“If you needed help you always got it” Danny now fills his days with caravanning trips and is the President of the Naval Association of Australia – Fraser Coast Sub Section.

To find out more about the association you can visit the Naval Association of Australia – Fraser Coast Sub Section Facebook page, email president@fcnaa.com.

Since the last edition, the Sub-Branch has conducted a Service of Commemoration for Peacekeepers who have served under the UN banner for 75 years and still continuing at the present time.

We also had a large turnout of veterans and members of the community to commemorate Remembrance Day which was wonderful to see.

Christmas is just around the corner and the team at the Sub-Branch are looking forward to a wellearned break over the festive period. The office will be closed from Friday, December 16 to Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

If any Veteran needs assistance over this period, please contact the Services and Memorial Club on 41977444 and the staff will contact the on-call Sub-Branch member

We wish our team and all our members are very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year

If you're new to Hervey Bay and are Ex-Service, please call in to the Sub-Branch, introduce yourself, and have a chat. The Sub-Branch always welcomes new members.

If anyone needs assistance or knows of someone who does need help, please contact the Pension and Wellbeing section on 0741 849496. The address is 1921 Torquay Rd, Pialba on the second floor Monday to Friday 0900-1500 hrs. If on a weekend, please contact RSL Club reception for emergency contact.

The Sub-Branch office is open Monday-Friday 0900-1230hrs. All information is on the website at www.herveybayrsl subbranch.com.au or call 41977477.

Until next time take care and be happy

Brian Tidyman, Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch President

Welcome to this edition of RSL Life

REMEMBRANCE DAY

The Fraser Coast community paused on the 11th day, of the 11th month, at 11am to remember the sacrifice our ex servicemen and woman experienced while defending our country's freedom.

A poignant service was held at Freedom Park followed by a lovely lunch in Hervey House with about 260 veterans in attendance

Community Groups & Clubs

AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION FRASER COAST BRANCH

Meets at the RSL on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10 30am Contact the President, Steve Hart on 0415688535or the Secretary, Ros Richards on 41287685

EX SERVICE WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

Meets at RSL on 2nd Monday of each month at 10 30am Contact President Pam Lock on 0409 629387

FRASER COAST MEMORIAL FISHING CLUB

Meets every Wednesday at 7pm in Lakes Room at HBRSL All welcome Contact Bernie Devine 0400 568 658

FRASER COAST NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Meet at RSL on 2nd Sunday of the month at 11am Contact Danny Meredith (President) on 0412 523737 Sue Meehaw (Sec) 0438911950

FRASER LIONS CLUB

Men and women most welcome Meets every 2nd Thursday Please contact us on 0448 358289

H.B LEGACY GROUP

Legacy House, 1 Byrant Street, Pialba Open Tuesday to Friday 9am - 1pm Ph: 4194 5111 wwwlegacycom au

H B RSL SUB BRANCH COMMITTEE

Meets 4th Thursday of the month at 10 15am at the RSL, Lakes Room Phone 4197 7477

HB RSL SOCIAL SNOOKER GROUP

Played every Monday 6pm for 6 30pm start Contact Steve Nolan 0418 418 558

HERVEY BAY DISTRICT & VETERANS ASSOC INC

Meeting 3rd Tuesday of the month 9 30am 2nd floor HBRSL Contact M Sinclair (Pres), T Tidyman (VP), Simon Morley Contact Via RSL Sub Branch 4197 7477

HERVEY BAY PARKINSON SUPPORT GROUP

Meets 2nd Tuesday Poppies/The Deck 10 am

HERVEY BAY RSL PIPE BAND

Contacts: Secretary Stephanie Kapper 0467 260 860, Peter Finch President 0401 731 633 Lesley Finch Treasurer 0490 494 647 email hbrslpipeband@gmail com

HERVEY BAY SNOOKER

Contact Steve Nolan 0418 418 558 Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 5 30pm

HERVEY BAY VETERAN’S ASSOC. INC.

SUPPORT GROUP

Meets 2nd Wednesday of the month in the Maheno Room 10 am Contact Mick Sinclair, Toby Tidyman or Simon Morley

INDOOR BOWLS

Played at the RSL on a Tuesday at 2 00pm, & Thursday at 6 30pm All welcome Contact Steve Dutton 0424 775 017

KOOKABURRAS SHARE GROUP

Meet at RSL on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 10am at the RSL Contact Diana Green 4128 7546

LAUREL CLUB

CONTACT NAMES AND NUMBERS

Meetings on the 3rd Monday of each month, 2pm at RSL Contact Denise Kitchin on 0428 638 784

MEMORIAL DART CLUB

Plays Wednesday night; register by 7 15pm for 7 30pm start 8 games of pot luck pairs Members $5 Visitors $6 Contact Lois Ehrilch 0488 152 351 or Annae Benstead 0417 029 821

MIXED PROBUS CLUB

Fun, fellowship and friendship in retirement Meets 4th Thursday of each month Email: mixedprobushb@gmail com contact Sue 0478 792 962

NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATION

Meets at the RSL 4th Wed of each month at 10 30am Phone Brian Barker 0467 642 730 or Ray Duce on 0477 799 971

PARTNERS OF VETERANS ASSOCIATION

Contact Ann Cossey 0400 456 507 or Gwyn Wells 0412 757 112

RSL SOCIAL BOWLS

Friendly club playing social bowls every Sunday 8am 11am Only $5 membership Contact George on 0400 223 724 for details

RSL SOCIAL DARTS

Plays Tuesday night, register by 7pm for a 7 15pm start $5 entry Contact Rick Brown 0417 731 531 or Gary Doyle 4125 8292

RSL WOMEN’S AUXILIARY HERVEY BAY

Meets at the RSL 10 00am, 2nd Tuesday of each month Contact: Ve Heironymus (sec) on 4124 1502

SOCIAL CARDS GROUP

Held at RSL every Monday & Thursday from 1 00pm - 4 30pm in Hervey House All welcome Hand & Foot, Pony Canasta & Key Wild Contact Gary on 0402 681 157 or Heather 0422 815 681

TPI FRASER COAST

Monthly meetings held, for dates and times contact President Shirley Smith 4124 6248

VETERANS DAY IN THE SPORTSBAR

Held on the 1st DVA payday of the month (Thursday). 11am - 1.30pm. Great catch up, raffle, trivia, entertainment. All welcome.

VETERANS OF AUSTRALIA ASSOCIATION INC

www.facebook.com/veteransofaustralia or contact the centre on 4128 3759.

VIETNAM VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION

OF AUST HERVEY BAY CITY SUB-BRANCH

Meets at the Vet’s Centre, Freedom Park, Pialba. On the 1st Monday of the month at 10am. All welcome. President Clive Saunders 4128 3759 for more info.

WAR WIDOWS’ GUILD OF HERVEY BAY

Meet at RSL on 1st Monday of the month at 10am. Christine Starr (Pres/Sec) 0407 575 642.

Corner Tooth Street and Old Maryborough Road, Pialba. Phone 4124 1177 www.theclubhouseherveybay.com.au

It's clearthatthe motel, ownedbythe HerveyBay RSL Group,has won over travellers from aroundthe worldaftertaking out the hotly contested title of Comfort Hotel of the Yearfor 2021.

The win comes on the backof Gold Awards in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and Comfort Hotel of the Yearin 2020.

Leadinghotel franchise groupChoice Hotels Asia-Pac recognised the motel as one of its top performersin the annual awards,which praises outstanding operatorsacross fivebrands:Ascend Hotel Collection, Clarion, Quality,Comfort and Econo Lodge.

Motel Supervisor Sonia Englandsaid it was an incredible feeling to receive international recognitionfor the motel and her team of dedicatedstaff.

From receptionstaff to cleaners, Ms Englandsaid everyoneplays an integralpart in providingexceptional guest experiences and high levels of customer service.

She said consistency is also a key playerin seeing returnguests.

“We areall friendly and we areall consistent; Ourservice is consistent, and the rooms are alwayskept to a high standard.

“When people come backto stay with us, theyknow whatthey aregoing to get.

“A lot of guests, especially travellers,say to us thatit's one of the most comfortable places they have stayed.

“My team is dedicatedto making sure our guests feel importantand aren'ttreatedlike they'rejust anotherface.

“To win this awardis veryspecial and a good reflectionof all their hardwork.”

Top stars aregiven repeatedlyfor the motel's excellent customer service, the newly renovatedrooms, the location being rightin the heartof Pialba's CBD, plus the bonus of receiving a 20% dining discount at the HerveyBay RSL and the Clubhouse HerveyBay.

a wonderful

Green View deck offers a stunning view of the 18th green, perfect for parties. Our platters are great for a relaxed get together, celebration or party Beautiful setting overlooking the 9th green. Choose from our delicious a-la-carte

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KING OF THE CLUBHOUSE KITCHEN

WHEN you dine out at The Clubhouse Hervey Bay you are not only getting an exquisite country view and a top family atmosphere at the best little club in the Bay.

You aregettingmeals createdand preparedbyone of the best chefs in the business.

Paul Austin is a veryfamiliar face amongst the RSL family afterbeing with the business for the past 10 yearsas the head chef in the Sandy Bay Bistro, followed by a role as venues food coordinatoracross the RSL group.

His most recentmove to the Clubhouse HerveyBay as the venues head chef has delighted staff and patronsalike.

His culinaryjourney startedin the NorthernBeaches of Sydneyatthe age of 14 when his parentssupportedhis decision to leave high school and get an apprenticeshipas a chef.

“I walkedinto a restaurantwith mum and dad,they introducedme to the head chef and I startedthe next day;and thatwas it!

“I've always loved food… even a passion for matching food up with wine.

“I've always been interested in food and it's whathas shaped my career.I also love

to be creativeand that's a big partof it.”

Paul travelledand workedin prestigious hotels in Europe,a wineryin Western Australia,and restaurantsin PortDouglas, Sydneyand Cairns beforecalling Hervey Bay home.

His home gardenis filled with fresh herbs, spices andvegetables thatareused to createhis favouriteAsian-inspired cuisine, coupled with delectablelocal seafood that HerveyBay is famous for.

The Clubhouse kitchen is now also a place for thatcreativityto run wild and that's certainlyreflectedin the new monthly specials for December, Januaryand February.

Paul has placeda strong emphasis on seafood while creatingthis flavoursome spreadwith meals like sumac spiced prawns,tempurasoft shell crabon chilli plum noodle salad and barramundi poachedin coconutwith pineapple and herbsalad with crispy noodles, being just some of the new meals to look forwardto.

There is also a new A la Cartemenu in the

pipeline with some top steaks and more local seafood making an appearance.

“I'm tryingto get as much local seafood in as I can.Summer means seafood in HerveyBay; that's whatpeople expect.”

Paul is also looking forwardto cateringfor 200 guests at the club's sold-out Christmas Day lunch and Christmas Eve dinner,whereonly a limited number of seats arestill available.

The best part,Paul said, there's no stress, no fuss, no washing up laterthatnight, just a delicious traditionalmeal served up to you and yourfamily on Christmas Eve. it's just like Christmas at home with decorationssetting the festive spirit and a full buffet dinner with turkey,ham, roast beef, salads, a dessert tasting plate,plus live entertainmentto top off the evening.

Keep an eye out on The Clubhouse website and Facebookpagefor upcoming specials and events, especially over the holiday periodwhereyou won'tfeel the

sting of public holiday surcharges.

Patronscan choose to sit inside in the relaxedand casual dining room, or head outside to finda seat overlooking the spectacularview of the 9th greenon the HerveyBay Golf Course – a unique country setting thatcan'tbe replicatedanywhere else on the Fraser Coast.

The venue also boasts a fully stocked bar, kids' room and the privateHole-In-One Gaming Room.

So, if you'relooking for value-for-money dining with one of the Bay's best chefs, top views, cold drinks and excellent customer service, be sure to swing byThe Clubhouse HerveyBay.