Battle of Fromelles Commemoration – Ipswich, Australia and Fromelles, France

A very moving 108th Anniversary Commemoration (19th July 2024) held at the Ipswich RSL Honour Stone by the Ipswich RSL in conjunction with the 31st Infantry Battalion Association (Brisbane Branch). Honoured Special Guest was Mr Keith Payne VC AM,, a former member of both the 31st Battalion (1951) & 42nd Battalion (1975).


Other honoured Guests were Brig Arran Hassell CSC, Commander of 8th Brigade Aust Army, Duputy RSL Qld President, Ms Wendy Taylor, Group Capt Dennis Tan, Senior Officer RAAF Base Amberley . Her Worship the Mayor of Ipswich Cr Teresa Harding, Mr Alain Etchegaray Hon Consul representing the French Ambassador to Australia, Maj Ed Dalheimer, Company Commander 31st/42nd Battalion RQR, The Hon Shayne Neumann MP, Member for Blair, Senator Paul Scarr ,Jennifer Howard MP, State Member for Ipswich.


We were honoured to have the following Descendants of Soldiers who fought in the Battle of Fromelles –
Col Mark Plath Retd – representing– Lt Col Fred Toll DSO & Bar MBE VD, CO of 31st Battalion
Mr Keith Beardsmore – representing– Lt Col Henry Breardsmore DSO , 30th Battalion –
Ms Ann Kirby – representing – Sgt Cyril Kirby MM 31st Battalion
Lt Col Russell Linwood ASM Retd – representing – Pte Issac Linwood 31stBattalion
Mr Leo Rawlings – representing– Pte Frederick Rawlings 31st Battalion
Mr Bernie Delaney, Ms Siobhan Bouma & James Danaher 3rd – representing – Lt James Danaher 31st Battalion
Robert Doncaster- representing – Charles Christopher Doncaster 53rdBattalion
Additional we had Ms Deborah Gower representing the Mayor of Fromelles & the Fromelles Community lay a Wreath
Some photos of the Descendants at the Honour Stone after the Service. More to follow
We also mention the Service was live streamed on Ipswich RSL Facebook & can be viewed here – https://www.facebook.com/ipswichrsl/videos/1455856535298547

Brig Arran Hassell CSC – Comd 8th Bde – Delivering Welcoming Address

Group of 31st Battalion Association at 108th Commemoration of Battle of Fromelles at RSL Honour Stone Ipswich, Qld, Australia.

Members of the 31st Battalion Assoc with Keith Payne VC AM (Centre Front)

Maj Ed Dahlheimer, Coy Commander 31st/42nd Battalion, (In Uniform).

After the 108th Anniversary Commemoration of the Battle of Fromelles at Ipswich.

Lt Col Russell Linwood ASM Retd (on the left of Keith) renewed their acquaintance & stories

from when Russell was a Cadet at Duntroon & Keith was an Instructor there.

Wreaths Laid at the Fromelles Commemoration in Ipswich

Keith engaged in conversation with fellow Vet.

Overhead photo of 31st Battalion Assoc Battle of Fromelles 108th Anniversary Commemoration held at the Honour Stone at Ipswich RSL Memorial Hall, in conjunction with the Ipswich RSL sub branch.

A great attendance of over 100.

 

Grave Stone for William Brumby – One of the Missing 200 – Identified 2024 – Reinterred Pheasant Wood Cemetery, France – RIP – Lest We Forget

 BRUMBY , William Christopher S/N 585 Pte
Born -Cones Homley, England
NOK (m) Mrs Eliza Rowle, South Someroakes, Lincolnshire, England

Enlistment Date 12-Jul-15 Melbourne, Victoria
Age 28 yrs Single C.of E. Labourer Address Sorrento, Victoria

Outcome KIA 2 0th Jul 1916 at Fromelles.

Remembered at Villers Bretonneux – France

Original, ‘C’ Coy, 31st Bn

Pte William Christopher Brumby

Pheasant Wood Military Cemetery Fromelles France 19th uly 2024

31st Battalion Association Wreath placed during the Ceremony

Fromelles France 19th July 2024

108th Battlle of Fromelles Commemoration at Fromelles, France

Commemoration Ceremony Fromelles France 19th July 2024

Address of Commemoration – 2024

MAJ Edward Dahlheimer

Good morning, Ladies and Gentlemen, –

    • MR Keith Payne VC AM,
    • COMD 8th BDE BRIG Arran HASSEL CSC,
    • Deputy President RSL QLD Wendy Taylor,
    • President of the Ipswich RSL Mr Paul Rogers
    • The Federal Member for Blair the Honourable Shayne Neumann MP
    • State Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard MP –
    • Her Worship the Mayor of Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding,
    • Honorary Consul Representing the French Ambassador to Australia Mr Alain Etchegaray
    • Honoured Guests
    • Fellow Veterans, – Serving members, – Various Association Members – Descendants of those who served & Fell at the Battle of Fromelles,

          and last but not least, The 31st Bn Assoc. & Ipswich RSL Sub Branch Members for the excellent work behind the scenes setting up this Commemoration to ensure we never forget the anniversary of this tragic day.

When I was asked to deliver this address, I was excited to further my historical knowledge of the deeds of those brave Australian Soldiers who embarked on adventure in a foreign land. For me to talk about the Battle of Fromelles I needed to go to the written words of LTCOL Fredrick TOLL and the War Diary of the 31st Bn AIF. I always find these documents have lots of information but it’s what is between the lines I enjoy. I found that the report, written by LTCOL TOLL to the COMD 8th BDE, to be very informative in laying out the plan he had and how the tragic operation on the 19th/20th July unfolded.

Late June found the Bn at Morbeque after traveling from Egypt via Marseilles, with C Coy the last to join the unit this brought the strength to 30 officers and 995 ORs. At Morbeque they would have completed final briefings, training and had practical displays of gassing. July 7th, they received Stand by orders to enter the line, July 8th 0115hrs movement orders issued and the 31st Bn marched to ESTARES then onto RUE DORMOIRE to relieve the 18th Bn. The Bn moved into the BOIS-GRENIER LINE relieving the 15th Bn as the reserve for the 29th Bn they moved back to the billets for rest on the 16th as initial orders had the operation starting on the 17th but due to heavy shelling on the billets and the support trenches it was delayed.

Some of the first causalities started on 16th July, the intelligence officer LT George Alfred STILL led a small team to conduct reconnaissance on enemy positions and disposition. CPL Alfred Carlyle DAY and PTE Robert Hurtle LUXMOORE were both WIA. DAY was an apprentice electrician who was born in Brisbane he was 19 years old. He received a GSW to his left buttock, he was RTA and MID for his actions prior to the operation. During those days leading up to the assault the Bn lost one officer and 34 ORs all WIA.

On 16th July, D Coy less one Platoon moved in to secure the right section of the BDE area the rest of the Bn was in reserve 300 yards behind the front. This area was shelled continuously so A & C Coys moved into billets to be protected from shelling. LTCOL Toll moved the Bn into BDE area with A Coy supported by B Coy and C Coy supported by D Coy broken into 4 waves with 2 platoons from each Coy in each wave. They were supported with Lewis Gunners and Signallers as runners, unfortunately 6 of the 8 signallers were killed or wounded during artillery fire.

On 19th July the Bn reported ready at 1600hrs, BHQ moved from support trenches to front line at 1730hr, the first wave crossed over the parapet at 1758hrs and began to cross no man’s land. The second waved stepped off at 1800hrs followed by the third and the fourth the CO decided that BHQ would join the third and fourth waves. When they reached the enemy trenches, it was noted what great destruction had taken place with dead and dying enemy. Sadly, due to the artillery from both sides and machine gun many of the 31st Bn were among the dead and wounded.

With most officers and NCOs killed or WIA, LTCOL Toll led the remnants of his Bn past the German frontline to about 200 yards but could not locate the other trenches, just open fields with water filled craters. This was very different to what aerial photos and reconnaissance had indicated. It was decided to consolidate and dig in about 250 yards from the German front line. The BHQ went through a box barrage for enemy guns, this is most likely when LT Still was partially buried and wounded, LTCOL TOLL and his staff conducted further reconnaissance out to about 400 yards and found a heavily fortified location. With MAJ Eckersley holding the forward position the CO went about to strengthen the German line and consolidate his scattered troops. At 1915hrs the first of many messages went to BDE asking then pleading for ammunition, tools, sandbags and reinforcements and they could not estimate the large number of casualties. They made contact with the 54th Bn and after some time they linked with the 32nd Bn who were well forward. At 2030hrs the forward position was untenable but asked to hold ground.

At 0230hrs 20 July the enemy counter attack started, pushing the advanced right flank back with grenades. At 0330hrs the left flank was pushed back. The main attack launched at 0530hrs and broke the fwd line which retired to their own lines, LTCOL Toll was the last to leave the German lines and cross no man’s land. PTE John Joseph GOULDING was one of the many lost on the night of the 19th July from one report stating he would not leave his post; he was reported wounded in a few accounts stating that he was most likely captured by the Germans. It was later reported that he died in Germany as a POW, but on 22 Oct 1919 a translated message dated 30 July 1916 stated, “Australian soldier J.J. Goulding of 31st Bn fell in the neighbourhood of Fromelles on 19 Jul 1916”. He was one of the many buried in the mass grave. There were letters sent to army requesting information of John’s fate, his mother’s request was very moving, and I will recite it now:

Dear sir,

I am writing to inquire of my son John Joseph GOULDING, No. 555. B. Company. 31st Battalion. A.I.F. who was reported missing since July 19th, 1916. I have not received anything belonging to him, but disc was sent from Germany sometime during 1917 with a promise that further inquiries would be made and I would be notified. Have heard no further of him. I have waited patiently with a aching heart for news of him if only I could know that he did not suffer too much from the huns if he fell in their hands which I have reasons to believe during that dreadful slaughter of Fleurbaix of which thousands of Australian Mothers has reasons to think seriously. My son left Australia to do his bit for the country he was born in England. He did not stand long but I do hope that something further will be made known to me although three years has passed it seems but as yesterday. I am still waiting.

First missing, then prisoner of war then killed in action. I know he was not the only one by thousands but he was my son just lent to me for 35 years and then missing. I know a good son, I believe a good man but do not know if a good soldier. He has paid the price as many others have done but in all the world there is no love like a mothers love for her children if she is ever so poor, if a true woman.

I have been trying to be patient for three years hoping but just today I thought perhaps you have forgotten but this I know that the war has just begun for mothers that dearly loved their boys all over the world. God help them to bear it. The suspense is what makes it so hard. Hoping this mail will bring some tidings or the next but one.

I cannot write more and I know you don’t want to read more. May I please ask will you try and find out if any record of him, my boy, and oblige.

(Sgd) Mrs. J. Alice Golding.

John was one of many lost during that attack, on 27th Jul the casualty report detailed 1 Off & 71 ORs KIA, 11 Off & 403 ORs WIA and 5 Off & 81 ORs MIA a total of 5 Off & 576 ORs. Reducing the Bn to 56% strength. One member of my family tree, SGT Edward Harris TULK, was one of the reinforcements posted to the 31st Bn in Sep 1969. When I read the war diary entry and the corresponding initial and detailed reports for the 19th/20th July I noted how much LTCOL TOLL recognised the efforts of the soldiers in his command under such arduous conditions. Some days after the operation he recommended officers and other ranks for outstanding contribution to the attack, most of whom received their commendations. But I suppose the following citation says it all about LTCOL Toll when he was awarded the DSO and Bar:

This Officer has been with the Brigade since its formation and has always done his duty in a most conscientious and efficient manner.

During the operations in the Suez Canal Zone he was untiring in his efforts to obtain a high standard of efficiency and has always been an example to his Officers and men.

Lt. Colonel Toll displayed great gallantry all through the operations of 19/20th July 1916, at Petillon. He was slightly wounded at the commencement of the action and before the assault was made and he lost heavily in Officers and men. He led the 3rd and 4th waves over the parapet himself. Before reaching the enemy trenches 13 officers has (sic) been killed or wounded, including three Company Commanders. Lt Colonel Toll personally took charge and pushed on, making vigorous efforts to consolidate the position won, reconnoitring the enemy’s defences and taking prisoners. On the retirement he organised the troops on our original front line.”

At present the 31st/42nd Bn along with members of the 11th BDE are conducting EX Austral Shield in Cairns as part of the 2nd DIV mission to provide Home Land Security for our nation. As one of the Company Commanders in the 31st/42nd Bn I am extremely proud to serve in a unit with such a long history. The commitment my officers and soldiers display would make the men of the original 31st Bn proud. Two months ago our unit ran the first regular army recon course for the 2nd Division, this was an outstanding success qualifying both regular and reserve force reconnaissance soldiers and has enhanced the capability of the 2nd Div.

As per our motto – Semper paratus defendere / cede nullius..

Lest we forget

The following is is a copy of the Address by the Bremer SHS Student at the 108th Anniversary Commemoration at Ipswich RSL Memorial Hall last Friday,19th July 2024. The Address was on the Commanding Officer of the 31st Battalion, 8th Brigade, Lt Col. Fred Toll. A remarkable effort by the Student

Good morning and welcome, everyone,

Today, we gather to commemorate the 108th anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles, a battle etched in the annals of history for its profound significance and the remarkable bravery of those who fought. As we stand here, our thoughts are with the countless soldiers who laid down their lives, their sacrifices forever shaping the course of history and the legacy of our nations.

The Battle of Fromelles, fought on July 19-20, 1916, was a defining moment for the Australian Imperial Force and the British Army on the Western Front. It was intended as a diversionary attack to draw German forces away from the Battle of the Somme, but it resulted in devastating losses. In less than 24 hours, over 5,500 Australian soldiers were killed, wounded, or missing, marking it as one of the darkest days in Australian military history.

Amidst this tragedy, stories of extraordinary valour and leadership emerged, illuminating the resilience and courage of our soldiers. One such story is that of Lieutenant Colonel Frederick William Toll, a name that resonates with honour and bravery.

Fred Toll’s military career began long before Fromelles. He served in the Boer War, earning commendations for his exemplary service. But it was at Fromelles where his heroism truly shone. As the commanding officer of the 31st Battalion, Fred Toll led his men with unwavering determination and strategic acumen in the face of overwhelming adversity.

During the chaos of battle, Toll’s leadership was instrumental in managing the intense and relentless enemy fire. His actions were marked by his steadfast commitment to his men and his mission. Under his command, the 31st Battalion exhibited remarkable tenacity, reflecting Toll’s own indomitable spirit. For his gallantry and distinguished service, Fred Toll was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO), a testament to his extraordinary leadership during one of the most challenging battles of the Great War.

Fred Toll’s story is not just a tale of military prowess but also of the enduring spirit of camaraderie and sacrifice that defines our armed forces. His bravery at Fromelles serves as a poignant reminder of the immense sacrifices made by so many. It is through the stories of individuals like Fred Toll that we connect with the broader narrative of courage and dedication that characterized the Battle of Fromelles.

As we remember the fallen today, let us also honour the spirit of those who survived, who carried the weight of their experiences and the memory of their comrades for the rest of their lives. Their legacy is our heritage, a reminder of the costs of war and the value of peace.

In closing, let us bow our heads in a moment of silence to pay tribute to all those who fought and fell at Fromelles. Their sacrifice and courage will never be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations. May we, the young and the old, rise to honour their memory and carry forward their spirits.

Thank you.

More Pictures From the Gallery

 

The 2024 Kennedy Regiment Commemorative Service

The 2024 Kennedy Regiment Commemorative Service was held at St James Cathedral, Townsville on Sunday 18th August 2024.  Members of 31st Bn and 42nd Bn Assoc from Townsville, Charters Towers, Ingham and other centres around North Queensland joined with Serving and Past members of 31/42 RQR and 11Bde. 

Members Attending the Service

Members and partners

Above Pictures 31Bn Assn Members and Wives/Partners At Assn Commemorative

Church Service at St James Cathedral, Townsville 

Darryl Walker, Lindsay Elmore and Andrew Gill 31Bn Assn Members

Neville Homes and Darryl Walker 31Bn Assoc. and National Service Assoc.

Rob Donkin (LTCOL Retd) Delivering Reflections Address

11Bde Officers (L to R) Maj Daniel Farrands, Lt Alexander de Camp, Cpl Kenton Harvie,

RSM 31/42RQR WO1 David Nicholas, COMD 11Bde BRIG Richard Pearce,

A/RSM WO1 Ryan Snell, Lt Joshua Borquin, Cpl Jackson Pearson, Pte Hugo Boyd (Bugler)

Service Notification:

Presidents and Members of the

31st Infantry Battalion Association

and the

42nd Infantry Battalion Association

have great pleasure in jointly inviting

All Association Members and interested public citizens

—————————

to attend the

2024 Kennedy Regiment Commemorative Service

to be held in

ST. JAMES CATHEDRAL

36 Cleveland Terrace, North Ward, Townsville on

Sunday, 18th August, 2024

at 9.00 a.m.

The Service will be conducted by the

The Very Reverend Dr Kenneth Lay

 

Dress:

Servicing Personnel: Ceremonial Dress Polyester

Civilians: Smart Casual (with Medals)

Coat and tie for participants

The service will be followed by

Refreshments in the Cathedral Hall

Battle of Fromelles Commemoration – 2024 – Ipswich

IMPORTANT MESSAGE:

Members, – OUR MAJOR EVENT OF THE YEAR – Your support is required.
“THE BATTLE of FROMELLES” – Commemoration Service
WHEN:- FRIDAY – 19th July 2024 at 1100 Hrs
WHERE:- The Honour Stone – Soldiers Memorial Hall – Ipswich RSL Sub Branch – 63 Nicholas St, Ipswich
DRESS:- Jacket & Tie – Beret, – Medals, – Name Tag

Special Guest:- Mr. Keith Payne VC AM – (Ex Member of 31st Bn & 42nd Bn)
Other Guests:- BRIG Arran Hassell CSC Commander – 8th Brigade – (31st Bn was part of the 8th Brigade at the Battle of Fromelles – WW1)
Members, – THIS IS NOW OUR MAIN EVENT FOR THE YEAR – PLEASE MAKE A SPECIAL EFFORT TO ATTEND.

Wives/Partners are most welcome.
It is our intention to have a Lunch at the CSI Club after the event. (Your expense)
If you have a Transport Issue, – please contact me.

RSVP – By WED – 10th July – Email:- wadesonriver@aapt.net.au

Please advise (1) Attending the Service (2) Attending the Lunch at CSI Club.

Lt James Danaher – One of the many Heroes of the Battle of Fromelles

Plaque produced by our Honorary Member in France Pierre Seillier

Map showing Parking in Central Ipswich, Qld and

available parking for Battle of Fromelles Commemoration

Vale – Ray Fogg ED – President – 31st Bn Assoc (Brisbane Branch)

The Brisbane Branch Assoc Secretary, Tony Wadeson  has passed on the very sad news that our 31st Battalion Brisbane Branch Founding President (in 2002), Ray Fogg, has passed away on Saturday 22 June after an extended illness.


Ray has led the Brisbane Branch of the Association for 22 years since its inception. One of the highlights of Ray’s time as President was arranging the construction of the Billy Sing Memorial Plinth at Lutwyche Cemetery in 2015 with financial assistance from the Federal Govt. Photo below.
Rest in Peace Ray.

 President Ray Fogg at the Inauguration of the Billy Sing DCM Croix de Guerre (Belgium) Memorial

Association executive member Mick James gives further information regarding Ray’s efforts to bring the Billy Sing Memorial to fruition.

I mention that the 31st Battalion Association Brisbane Branch conducted Memorial Services at Billy’s grave side in 2012 & 2013 which influenced the Federal Govt to approve us to manage the construction of the Memorial. We also had another Commemoration in 2018 with Billy’s nephew in attendance

Lists of 31st Battalion Diggers from WW1

A list of Diggers from 31st Battalion from World War 1 is in the process of being compiled by Association Member Peter Nelson. This monumental work is an ongoing work in progress over a period of years.

The alphabetical lists have appeared on the “31st Battalion AIF Memorial Association” Facebook pages over a long period. The work thus far has been consolidated on this website page. A big thanks to Peter for this huge effort.

A members

B members

C members

D members

E members

F members

G members

H members 31st Bn

I members 31st Bn

J members 31st Bn

K members 31st Bn

L Members 31st Bn

We will add further lists as they become available.

N.B. These lists have now been revised and they appear on their own page under the

Unit Matters  Menu Item  at the head of this website. See:

 

Unit Matters > 31st Battalion > 31st Battalion – WW1 Personnel Lists

Anzac Day – Brisbane – 2024

Anzac Day for members of the 31bn association in Brisbane started with the Dawn Service at “Dasher” Deed’s place followed by the 2/31st Bn commemoration service at the Cenotaph at SouthBank. Our Secretary Tony Wadeson represented the Association there before taking the Banner to the main march through the City. Some of the pictures of the SouthBank Service and Main March below.

Preparing for the SouthBank Service

Student Playing the Last Post and Reveille on the Trombone

Welcoming and Service at SouthBank

Association Members Participating in the Main March Through Brisbane

Dawn Service 2024 – At Dasher’s

Please find the attached Photo taken Yesterday at Ray Dasher Deeds own Dawn Service at his Residence. There were over 60 in attendance.

Dasher turned 97 Years yesterday on Anzac Day. Ray turned 24Y, at the ending of the Battle of Kapyong in Korea, & reckons he’s still awaiting an apology from China for stuffing up his 24th birthday.
With Dasher in this Photo are 2 of his Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) Mates, – Miles Farmer, & our own Member Warren Gunder, who served with the 31st Bn in the late 50’s & early 60’s before transferring to the Regular Army & the AATTV & then to one of the Regular Battalions after the Vietnam War. Warren was our Vice President for many years on establishment of the 31st Bn Assoc. Brisbane Branch in 2000. 
Happy 97 Dasher.
 
Regards to all Tony
Brisbane March – 2024
Carrying Banners of the 31st Bn Association, 2/31st Bn and 31/51 Bn

Birthday Wishes to Ray “Dasher” Deed BEM

Memberl 21 is Our oldest Member – Korean War (“Battle of Kapyong”) and Australian Army Training Team Vietnam, (AATTV) Veteran –

Ray “Dasher” Deed, – turns 97 Years old this ANZAC Day – 25th April. I’ve attached 2 Photos of RAY (One of them with Doug Angus RIP) at the age of 90Y. Photos were taken at ALSTONVILLE in 2017, when a few of us went down to attend the Commemoration Service of the Death of Paddy Bugden VC – 100 years previously in 1917. The Third photo is of a younger Dasher Deed taken in Vietnam (2nd on Left) where these five ex 3RAR “Battle of Kapyong” Veterans, had just received their “Second” US PRESIDENTIAL Unit Citation Award (AATTV). Ray hasn’t been very well of late, but he told me yesterday he is definitely going to make it until after ANZAC DAY.

Ray will be holding his own Dawn Service at his residence again this year. There will be Tents erected in his Front yard, in case it rains. There will be about 60 people attending & he has a Guest Speaker from the RSL arranged. I will be attending, representing 31st Bn Assoc. – unfortunately President Ray Fogg is not well enough to attend this year.
Dasher spent some years as a Regular Army WO2 Cadre attached to 31st Bn in the late 1950’s & was WO1 – RSM of 51 Bn prior to Joining the AATTV in Vietnam.

Above is a new Tribute to Ray “Dasher” Deed, produced by our French “Life Member Pierre Seillier OAM”. I will have this printed & framed & present it to Dasher on Anzac Day – his 97th Birthday. I forgot to mention in my previous email That on retirement Dasher was immediately contacted by Brisbane GPS College, – Church of England Grammar School, – referred to as “CHURCHIE” to join their staff as The Discipline Master? (or a term Similar) he remained there for 15 years. He redeveloped the School Army Cadet Corps, had them doing drills, no one thought possible & as well as the Royal Military College Duntroon Cadets, . On retirement the College used to arrange to have him back at the College for their Anzac Day Ceremony each year, prior to the Brisbane Parade.


Our thanks to Pierre who produced this Tribute immediately after receiving my email below & emailed it back to me within a couple of hours. Pierre is a legend.
Regards Tony

 

Battalion Recruiting Effort

Great to see a report on the 31/42 Battalion Facebook page outlining a coordinated recruiting effort across the various depots over the past couple of months.

Go Minotaur’s! —

Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton & Gladstone members were supported by Defence Force Recruiting to conduct four consecutive ‘Night in the Army Reserves’ at the relevant depot locations over the month of March and April.
Approx 40 potential candidates attended the presentations across the depot locations where Soldiers and NCO’s from the unit spoke about their experiences. The presentations were followed by a display across several stands including:
· Weapons (EF88, SL40, F89, Tripod Mounted MAG58 and 84mm)
· Living in the Field (Hootchie Setup, Sleeping Setup, and Ration Board)
· Equipment (Body Armour, Helmet, and Field Pack)
Available unit members participated in supporting this event including 31/42 RQR, 11ER, QUR & 11CSSB.
Concurrently over this period 25 members from these units, in conjunction with the 11th BDE Future Workforce Cell & Defence Force Recruiting attended the Unit Recruiting Liaison Officer training with WO2 Peter Johnson, in these various locations.
The nights were a huge success and this is a strong start for Recruiting, for the unit in 2024. Well done all involved

Pictures below were taken during the recent campaign:

Vale – Wally Thomasson

Members, I refer you to the undermentioned Notice from Victor Nicol Charters Towers- re the Passing of Stalwart Member Wally Thomasson Friday evening 24rd Feb.
Tony
Vic subsequently informed us of the funeral arrangements for Wally:

The funeral for our past member Wally Thomasson will be held on Friday 1st March 2024 at 10.00 am at the Church of Christ, 25 Anne Street, Charters Towers, followed by internment at the Charters Towers cemetery.

Could you please advise your members.

A sad loss, R I P Wally. Regards,

Vic Nicol

The only information I have at this time is taken from his statement of service.

Walter James Thomasson, service no. 1701805,

National Service, 05 January 1952 to 11 April 1952.

Citizen Military Forces 12 April 1952 to 04 January 1957.

Rank Private.

I have been told he was in the Assault Pioneer Platoon, Support Coy.

RIP -Wally