Vetaffairs November 2020

VETAFFAIRS DVA’S FREE NEWSPAPER FOR AUSTRALIA'S VETERAN COMMUNITY

ISSN 0819-8934

Vol. 36 No. 3 NOVEMBER 2020

What the Budget means for the veteran community

The Government has allocated $11.7 billion to DVA in the 2020–21 Budget to deliver a range of services and supports for our 220,000 veterans and 100,000 dependants.

75th anniversary of the pages 13–16 Second World War lift-out

The Budget focuses on supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our veterans and their families, and providing the best possible support for those transitioning to civilian life and into meaningful employment. Budget measures where DVA is the lead agency, include: • $101.7 million to boost mental health support for veterans, including the expansion of Open Arms and expanded eligibility of the Coordinated Veterans’ Care Program to certain White Card holders • $64.1 million in supplementary funding to support DVA’s claims processing, accessing treatment and support services, as well as to improve data sharing and analytics between DVA and the Department of Defence. • $25.9 million for additional support for Totally and Permanently Incapacitated (TPI) veterans, particularly for those paying private rent • $6.0 million to broaden the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program • $1.1 million to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the End of the Second World War.

Mental health support Of the $101.7 million provided to further increase mental health support services, $5 million will be used to expand Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling service. Founded by Vietnam veterans, Open Arms is Australia’s leading provider of high quality mental health

program to Veteran White Card holders with a chronic mental health condition accepted as being related to their military service. This funding means that more veterans with chronic mental health concerns will be supported, providing them with greater access to co-ordinated care and treatment of their mental health conditions.

There are also a number of measures managed by other Australian Government departments that benefit veterans and their families. They include establishing the Joint Transition Authority within the Department of Defence, which will run in partnership with DVA and the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation, and a range of health-related measures to promote better wellbeing outcomes for our veterans and their families.

pages 14, 15

Veterans Family Advocate Gwen Cherne

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester gives a Second World War Commemorative Medallion to East Gippsland veteran Rose Jackson, who is with her Navy veteran son Ross Jackson.

$5 million will be used to expand Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling service.

Commemorative Medallion

assessment and clinical counselling services for Australian veterans and their families. This new investment will fund the expansion of the Open Arms Community and Peer Program to Maryborough, Queensland, and Nowra, New South Wales, increasing access to clinical mental health and suicide prevention services. This new funding builds on the recent expansion of Open Arms’ geographical footprint, with the expansion of the Melbourne office and brand new offices opening in Ipswich, Queensland and Mt Pleasant, Western Australia over the past few months. $2.4 million has been allocated to the Coordinated Veterans’ Care program to expand eligibility for the

page 21

page 22 Defence Engagement Commissioner Stuart Smith

Veterans will have improved access to health professional services through an investment of $94.3 million to provide a one-off DVA fee increase to mental health, social work, and community nursing providers to maintain competitive rates for the provision of services. This will improve mental health outcomes and ensure high quality care for our older veterans and their families, and to better support transition to civilian life. This investment supports the Government’s commitment to provide veterans with timely access to quality health care services to achieve better mental health and wellbeing outcomes.

WWII 75TH ANNIVERSARY....13–16

Continued on page 5

NOTICEBOARD........................27–28

CONTENTS NEWS............................................2–7 COVID-19....................................8–10 HEALTH & WELLBEING....11, 12, 17 WIDOW’S NEWS............................18 ESO NEWS......................................18 TRANSITIONING WELL................19 FEATURES...............................20–23 COMMEMORATIONS...............24–25 AWM...............................................26

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N E W S NEWS FROM THE DEPARTMENT Liz Cosson AM CSC Secretary – Department of Veterans’ Affairs

An encouraging end to a challenging year 2020 has been a challenging year for most of us. The bushfires and floods at the start of the year directly affected tens of thousands of people in the veteran community alone. Then as we started to resume our normal lives, the world was hit with the COVID-19 pandemic. But I am optimistic about the future.

With Second World War veteran Les Cook as he talks to Princess Anne via Zoom as part of the 75th anniversary of the Second World War (see page 14). Photo: Australian War Memorial.

The recent Federal Budget has strengthened DVA’s capacity to support veterans and their families in important ways, and the department’s response to COVID-19 has brought out the very best in our culture. In addition, we as a department are making significant progress in our transformation. While there is more to be done, we have a plan and I am confident we are making a difference. Around 90 per cent of our staff were working from home during the height of COVID-19. In most cases, we saw an overall improvement in productivity. This is because staff were able to better manage their work-life balance and spend less time commuting to and from the office. I have received some lovely letters from veterans letting us know the department is doing great work and how they felt supported during this difficult time. Since the onset of COVID-19, we have delivered more than 225,000 stimulus payments, paid more than 1,200 supplements to students who receive education support, connected with more than 70,000 vulnerable veterans and set up a special e-news on COVID-19, which updated 150,000 veterans on vital support and services available to them. Though COVID-19 affected how the nation commemorated the 75th anniversary of the end of the

Vetaffairs is printed by PMP on PEFC (Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) accredited paper.

Second World War, the department did a remarkable job of acknowledging this historic milestone, and honouring the almost one million Australian men and women who served at home and abroad. The four-page lift-out at the centre of this edition of Vetaffairs brings some of those stories to life.

The department did a remarkable job of acknowledging this historic milestone, and honouring the almost one million Australian men and women who served at home and abroad. Moving forward, we will continue our transformation. We are seeking to better understand veterans’ and their families’ needs by using our data and insights to better shape our policies and programs. Our efforts in this area were recently rewarded when the department won an Australian Business Award in Innovation for developing a platform that uses

powerful artificial intelligence techniques to build comprehensive data on veterans and their uptake of DVA services. In August next year, a question specific to veterans will be included in the Census for the first time. This will help us gather useful information not just about the veterans we already support but those we would like to reach out to and support. We are seeing an increasing take-up of the MyService online claims portal, the reduction in paper forms and the consolidation of our phone lines. We have also rolled out a new IT system that allows staff to view a veteran’s entire profile and history at one time, and invested in a cultural change program involving education, training and engaging with the veteran community. I am encouraged by the appointment of some impressive people to our leadership team. In August, Ms Kate Pope PSM was appointed to the role of Deputy President of the Repatriation Commission and a member of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Committee. Two other appointees to the Repatriation Commission are Mr Stuart Smith AO DSC (Retd), who is acting in the role of inaugural Defence Engagement Commissioner, and Ms Gwen Cherne who was appointed as the first Veteran Family Advocate (representing the perspectives of veterans’ families in ongoing policy and decisionmaking across Government). Profiles of Stuart, Gwen and Ms Vicki Rundle PSM, Deputy Secretary Veterans and Families Services, are included in this edition of Vetaffairs and we will profile Kate and Mr Don Spinks AM, the Repatriation Commissioner, in the next edition. At the beginning of this column, I mentioned how the Budget has strengthened our ability to support the veteran community. It provides targeted support for the mental health and wellbeing of our veterans and their families and offers improved support and services for those transitioning to civilian life. I encourage you to read pages 1, 3 and 5 for more detail on the Budget measures announced. I hope you enjoy this special Budget edition of Vetaffairs. It is the last edition for 2020 and going forward you will enjoy Vetaffairs published three times a year. This is also the first edition of our new digital magazine of Vetaffairs. I encourage you to visit dva. gov.au/Vetaffairs to try viewing the pages of the digital edition on your personal device and subscribing to go digital in the future, if it is your preferred way of reading Vetaffairs. This year has not been easy and we do not know what is in store for 2021, but I know DVA will continue to be there for veterans and their families and will adapt to any new challenges that present. The DVA team and I wish you all a safe and merry Christmas.

Vetaffairs is published by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs as a free newspaper for Australia’s veteran community.

Follow DVA on Facebook DVAAus and Twitter @DVAAus. Browse DVA on YouTube DVAAus Channel

Editor Conan Elphicke email vetaffairs@dva.gov.au mail GPO Box 9998 Brisbane, QLD 4001

If you have an enquiry for DVA phone freecall 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) web dva.gov.au

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N E W S FROM THE MINISTER @DarrenChesterMP

The Hon Darren Chester MP Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel

Focusing on mental health and employment Improving veteran mental health and employment The Government is continuing to put veterans and their families first, delivering the essential services they rely on with more than $340 million in new measures announced as part of the 2020–21 Budget. First and foremost, I want to advise you all that the recommendations put forward by the Productivity Commission relating to the Gold Card will not be accepted by this Government. This was announced in the Budget and forms part of our interim response to the Productivity Commission’s report. I trust this provides certainty about our commitment to the exservice community. We are also providing $113.2 million through the Department of Social Services for two $250 economic support payments. These will be available to more than 225,000 veterans and their families to help support and stimulate the Australian economy and are part of the ongoing response to the global coronavirus pandemic. To find out if you’re eligible, visit the DVA website (dva.gov.au/esp).

Funding provided in this Budget will help those veterans interested in starting their own business with training, advice and resources. In these uncertain times, the Government has prioritised initiatives that bolster access to mental health support, improve the transition to civilian life and increase access to employment. The Government has provided $101.7 million to further bolster mental health support, including: • $94.3 million to improve mental health outcomes and ensure high-quality care for our older veterans and their families, and to better support their transition to civilian life by increasing fees paid to mental health, social work and community nursing providers. • $2.4 million to expand eligibility for the Coordinated Veterans’ Care program, which provides GP-led team-based care to White Card holders with a mental health condition accepted as related to their military service. • $5.0 million to expand the 24/7 Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling, especially in regional and remote areas. The Government has recognised that the transition process of leaving the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and re-entering civilian life, including finding employment, is a crucial step. The Government has invested significantly in these areas, ensuring Defence now takes a needs-based approach to transition and expanding the transition for employment (T4E) program and the Personalised Career and Employment Program (PCEP). Building on these successful initiatives, the Budget will invest $23.7 million for increased transition and employment support.

This funding includes $17.7 million over four years to establish a Joint Transition Authority, ensuring all transition services and supports are working together for ADF members and their families during this critical phase – a key recommendation of the Productivity Commission’s report. In addition, the Government is continuing its investment in veterans’ employment with $6 million to increase job opportunities for veterans and to provide support for ADF personnel considering starting their own business. Through the successful Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program we have seen some incredible examples of veterans’ entrepreneurship and we know veterans bring many sought-after qualities to the civilian workplace. Funding provided in this Budget will help those veterans interested in starting their own business with training, advice and resources, giving them the support they need to get their ideas off the ground.

TPI and Productivity Commission reports The Budget also included responses to two important reports. Firstly, the Productivity Commission’s report, A Better Way to Support Veterans. I know this report has been the subject of great discussion in the ex-service community and since the Government tabled it I have received a wide range of feedback about its recommendations and findings. On 8 October, I tabled the Government’s interim response to the Productivity Commission in Parliament, addressing 25 of the report’s 69 recommendations. The Productivity Commission’s report is wide ranging and complex, and we are committed to consulting with the ex-service community to consider and address the remaining recommendations as part of our final response to be provided as part of the 2021–22 Budget. Second is the Independent Review into the Totally and Permanently Incapacitated (TPI) Payment by Mr David Tune AO PSM. Mr Tune’s review is the third assessment into issues raised by the TPI Federation around the TPI Payment, with the previous two being the KPMG Review of TPI Benefits and the Productivity Commission’s report. The Government has accepted the recommendations in the report by Mr Tune, as well as providing $25.9 million in the Budget to deliver additional assistance, including increased support for those TPI veterans who live in rented accommodation (Recommendation 15.1 of the Productivity Commission’s report). All three reviews have consistently found that there is insufficient evidence to support a broad increase in the TPI payment. While I can appreciate this is not the outcome the TPI Federation had hoped for, the Government has exhaustively investigated their claims and responded positively to all the recommendations put forward by Mr Tune. Further information on these can be found on the DVA website.

Laying a wreath at the cenotaph in Sale, Victoria.

Reviewing the Budget 2020–21 documents.

Second World War 75th anniversary As part of the Budget, the Government allocated $1.1 million to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. This occurred over a 75-day campaign from 2 June 2020 in the lead-up to the milestone date on 15 August (see pages 13–16). It was an opportunity to acknowledge the service and sacrifice of the almost one million Australians who served our nation, the 39,000 who died, the some 30,000 who were prisoners of war, and the support and fortitude of millions of Australians on the home front. I paid my respects by taking part in a private wreath-laying ceremony at the cenotaph in my home town of Sale, Victoria. I also had the honour of presenting Second World War veterans in the area with their 75th anniversary commemorative medallions and certificates from the Australian Government, on behalf of a grateful nation. There are around 12,000 Second World War veterans with us today. If you’re one of them, I encourage you (or a family member on your behalf) to register by contacting DVA on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) or via the website (dva.gov.au and search for ‘medallion’). While we can never repay the debt we owe you as a nation, this is just another small way we can say to you as an individual ‘thank you for your service’.

2020 This year has been a difficult one and I am proud that veterans have stepped up to support one another — helping with bushfire recovery and keeping in touch during the pandemic. I want to assure veterans and their families that they are at the forefront of the Government’s thinking. If you are struggling, I urge you to reach out. Help is available and you don’t have to go it alone. Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling is available on 1800 011 046 or www.openarms.gov.au

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N E W S Using your Veteran Card Some veterans have had questions about how they use their new Veteran’s Cards.

The new Veteran Card New look. Same benefits and entitlements.

NEW VETERAN CARDS ON THE WAY DVA Gold, White and Orange health cards have been replaced with a new-look Veteran Card. Your existing health benefits and entitlements will remain unchanged with the new card. You should destroy your old DVA health card when the new Veteran Card arrives. The Veteran Card provides a way for the Australian community to recognise and connect with veterans and acknowledge service to the nation. As well as continuing to enable you to get access to health services, the new cards also provide additional benefits from businesses, organisations and community groups who support the Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant. For more information on Veteran Card benefits visit the Veteran Card page of the DVA website (dva.gov.au and search for ‘Veteran Card’). If you haven’t received your new Veteran Card by the end of October 2020, please call us on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) or you can order a new card through your MyService account.

Veterans seeking appointments with any medical or allied health provider should always call their provider prior to their appointments to ensure that the provider will accept their DVA Gold/ White card for the full cost of treatment. If a provider does not accept their card, ask your general practitioner (GP) for help in finding another provider.

PRIOR APPROVAL Sometimes, DVA may need to provide prior financial approval to fund particular treatments that are not listed on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS). Prior approval must be obtained before the treatment is provided to ensure DVA will fund the full cost of treatment.

Clients should ask their provider to request prior approval by contacting DVA on 1800 550 457 (option 3). For White Card only holders, treatment must relate to accepted conditions. If the client or provider is not sure whether treatment directly relates to a client’s accepted condition(s), they should call DVA on the number above to determine eligibility before treatment starts. Should your treating provider have any questions about this process, they can contact DVA’s Provider Line on 1800 550 457 (Option 1) or email health.approval@dva. gov.au.

VETERAN GOLD CARD Show your card whenever you visit your health care provider. DVA usually covers medical treatment if you see a provider who accepts your Gold Card. DVA may need to approve some services before you receive them. Go to www.dva.gov.au/goldcard for more information.

VETERAN WHITE CARD Show your card whenever you visit a healthcare provider for the conditions it covers. DVA usually covers medical treatment by a provider who accepts your White Card. However, DVA may need to approve some services before you receive them. Go to www. dva.gov.au/white-card for more information.

VETERAN ORANGE CARD When you visit your doctor for a prescription, show your Orange Card so they can prescribe your items through the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS).

VISITING THE PHARMACY You also need to show your Veteran Card when you take your prescription to the pharmacy. If you do not, you may be charged more and the purchase may not count towards your RPBS Safety Net Threshold.

DVA SERVICES DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON DVA will continue to provide support to veterans and their families during the holiday season. However, please be aware that some services will be impacted from Christmas Day to New Year’s Day inclusive.

Counselling, mental health support and crisis accommodation The Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling line is available to support members of the current and ex-service community and their families 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Phone 1800 011 046 toll-free. The Safe Zone Support is an anonymous counselling line available 24/7 to support members of the current and ex-service community and their families. Phone 1800 142 072 toll-free. If you require urgent assistance, please call 000. If you are unwell, please contact your local doctor or go to your nearest hospital. Short-term crisis accommodation is available for eligible individuals at risk of domestic violence or homelessness. Please phone 1800 011 046 or visit openarms.gov.au. For further mental health information and support, visit openarms.gov.au.

The service will be closed on 25, 26, 27 and 28 December and 1 January. If transport is required on these days and has not been pre-booked, you can pay for the travel and seek reimbursement when we reopen. Or, if you are an existing MyAccount user, you can make new transport bookings and review existing ones online (https://myaccount.dva.gov.au). For travel in an emergency, always dial 000.

Defence Service Homes Insurance For enquiries, or help with a policy or claim, phone 1300 552 662 – 24 hours 7 days a week. For payments, phone 1300 304 989 for the cost of a local call.

Hospital admissions Doctors can admit DVA patients into hospital over the holiday period and request retrospective approval for the admission, where required, when DVA resumes full services.

Pharmaceutical approvals There will be no reduction in services across the Christmas/New Year period. Providers seeking prior approval for pharmaceuticals can call the Veterans’ Affairs Pharmaceutical Advisory Centre (VAPAC) 24 hours a day on 1800 552 580.

Transport bookings for medical treatment

Pension payments

DVA staff will be available to process transport requests for medical treatment on 29, 30 and 31 December. Please call 1800 550 455.

Pension payments due to be paid on Thursday 17 December 2020 and Thursday 31 December 2020 are not affected over this period. Therefore, the first

pension pay day of the New Year will be Thursday 14 January 2021.

Incapacity payments Incapacity payments will be paid on Thursday, 24 December. Therefore, the first incapacity pay day of the New Year will be Thursday, 7 January 2021. However, because of differing arrangements by various banks during the holiday period, which are beyond DVA’s control, the precise day of the week you receive this payment may differ from usual. You may wish to make arrangements to ensure you have enough funds to cover any direct deposit payments.

VAN offices, General Enquiries and Open Arms centres As usual, DVA offices and shopfronts, and general enquiry services, will be closed for the Christmas / New Year period from 25 December 2020 through to 3 January 2021. DVA’s Veterans’ Access Network (VAN) shopfronts (see page 8); DVA’s General Enquiries phone line and email services; and Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling centres and booked interview service re-open Monday, 4 January 2021. Please remember, the Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling line is available to support members of the current and ex-service community and their families 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Phone 1800 011 046 toll-free. Open Arms also offers a range of calming and coping strategies on their website www.openarms.gov.au.

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N E W S

What the Budget means for the veteran community Continued from page 1

Veterans’ employment The Budget includes $6 million for the successful Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program. The program will be broadened to support those considering self-employment through small business development and entrepreneurship as an employment pathway and includes funding to build an evidence base to inform future veteran employment initiatives. The package includes support provided through the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE) and grant funding for entrepreneurship training and programs to the not-for-profit organisation Prince’s Trust Australia.

The Budget includes $6 million for the successful Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program. This includes expanded access to New Business Assistance with New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS), giving veterans transitioning out of the ADF, and their families, the ability to participate in an Exploring Being My Own Boss Workshop and undertake NEIS training. The measure will also establish an evidence base to inform how support for veteran employment may be shaped into the future. This includes: • the establishment of a veteran indicator in the DESE’s New Employment Service Model to understand, through de-identified data, the mainstream employment pathways and outcomes of veterans • increased data analysis to map benchmarks and establish sustainable reporting to measure and inform current and future initiatives under the Program.

Productivity Commission interim report On 8 October, the Government delivered an interim response to the Productivity Commission report, A Better Way to Support Veterans, as part of the 2020–21 Budget process. It addresses 25 of the report’s 69 recommendations and delivering a program of initiatives focused on mental health, wellbeing, employment support and transition to boost support for Australia’s veterans.

Other measures of note include (as mentioned on page 1): • $94.3 million to increase fees paid to mental health, social work and community nursing providers (Recommendation 16.3) • $5.0 million to expand Open Arms, and to develop an Outcomes Monitoring Framework to ensure services provided are effective and of a high quality. (Recommendation 17.2) • $2.4 million to expand eligibility for the Coordinated Veterans’ Care program (Recommendation 16.1) • $25.9 million over four years to implement recommendations from the Independent Review of the TPI Payment and provide additional support to disabled veterans (Recommendation 15.1) • The establishment of a Joint Transition Authority (Recommendation 7.1) –see below.

consult with the veteran community to consider and address the remaining recommendations as part of its final response in the 2021–22 Budget. At the same time, the Government will also respond to the recommendations from the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Inquiry into transition from the Australian Defence Force and the Veterans’ Advocacy and Support Services Scoping Study. ‘The Government’s response to the Productivity Commission’s recommendations will have a substantial and enduring impact on the health and wellbeing of our veteran community into the future,’ Mr Chester said. ‘The Government will continue to take the time it needs to ensure its full response is considered and delivers the best possible outcomes for our veterans and their families into the future.’

The Government will not proceed with the recommendation to levy a premium on Defence but has agreed to fund the first stage of developing a Defence/DVA data-sharing and analytics solution. The solution will be underpinned by ADF member and veteran wellbeing frameworks to help with ADF injury prevention and management and understanding of the long-term costs of military injuries. ‘The Government believes that major reform of the veteran support system, particularly legislative framework and entitlements of veterans and their families, should be carefully considered and implemented incrementally to limit disruption and ensure legislation best meets the future needs of our veterans and their families,’ Mr Chester said. The interim response is supported by the funding package announced in the Budget, enabling six recommendations to be implemented. Seventeen of the 25 recommendations addressed in the interim response have already been implemented or are underway, or will be delivered by DVA or Defence using existing resources. The two recommendations relating to Veteran Gold Card eligibility will not be implemented. The Productivity Commission’s report is wide ranging and complex. The Government will continue to

Joint Transition Authority

The two recommendations relating to Veteran Gold Card eligibility will not be implemented.

In response to a recommendation in the Productivity Commission report, the Government is establishing the Joint Transition Authority (JTA) to better support ADF members and their families as they transition from military to civilian life.

The JTA will view transition from the perspective of the member and their family The JTA will view transition from the perspective of the member and their family, preparing and supporting them for transition to civilian life. It will provide a needs-based approach and will work to ensure all transition services and support mechanisms are working together for the benefit of ADF members and their families. The JTA will sit within the Department of Defence, partnering with DVA and the Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC). The authority will work closely with organisations, including ex-service organisations, which deliver transition support services. ‘While most ADF personnel experience a smooth transition and go on to contribute to the community in their civilian lives, we know that this period can be quite challenging for some and the JTA will give all transitioning ADF members the best opportunity for success,’ said Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester.

Cross-portfolio measures A Better Way to s Support Veteran

mmission Productivit y Co Inquir y Report ommendations Overview & Rec 9

e 201 No. 93, 27 Jun

In addition, the Budget includes initiatives to be implemented by the Department of Social Services (DSS) and the Department of Health that will have affect DVA clients. These include further economic support payments will be made as part of the COVID-19 Response Package (run by DSS) and Strengthening Primary Care, Improving Access to Medicines, and aged care initiatives (run by Health). For more information, visit the departments’ websites – dss.gov.au and health.gov.au.

More information For more information on the Budget and what it means for you, see the Budget page of the DVA website (dva.gov.au/budget-2020-21).

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N E W S 100,000 applications for veterans’ recognition The Australian Defence Veterans’ Covenant has reached an impressive milestone, with more than 100,000 applications following the launch in November 2019. The Covenant recognises and acknowledges the unique nature of military service, and the contribution of veterans and their families. The Veterans’ Recognition Program within the Covenant framework includes a Lapel Pin, Oath and the new-look Veteran Card for all veterans and eligible reservists who apply. The new-look Veteran Card is a redesign of the existing DVA Health Cards. While the Veteran Card’s primary purpose continues to be providing health and treatment services to veterans, it now also provides card holders with access to thousands of offers from businesses across Australia as part of a new benefits program. More than 800 businesses and community organisations are offering benefits and concessions to support veterans and their families through

the Covenant. These benefits are at the discretion of participating businesses and organisations. Veteran Card holders can register using their Veteran Card on the Australian Partners of Defence (APOD) website (apod.com.au) to access thousands of offers, from supermarkets to name brand clothing retailers and even skydiving experiences! Businesses and organisations that pledge their support will receive a Business Pack including window stickers, information brochures, a small counter display and a copy of the Covenant Oath. If a business in your local area is not aware of the Veteran Card, encourage them to find out how to get involved and show their support. Eligible current and former serving members of the Australian Defence Force, including reservists, can register for the Covenant through their MyService account. More information on the Covenant and Veterans’ Recognition can be found at recognition.dva.gov.au. To view participating businesses please visit the APOD website at apod.com.au.

Commonwealth Seniors Health Card gets a facelift From January 2021, the design and colour of the DVA Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) will change. The redesigned card will carry the DVA logo and will be printed in yellow and red instead of green and yellow. The new design should be instantly recognisable to concession provider staff who already grant services and confirm eligibility for other recipients. All benefits and entitlements will remain unchanged for cardholders. Cardholders should expect to receive their new card from October 2020. If you have not received your card by January 2021, please contact the Veteran Access Network on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).

Dennis Oldenhove (President) and Mark Stewart-Jones (Vice President) of the Macclesfield RSL at the launch of an APOD offer by Adelaide Oval and Peter Kittle Toyota.

VETERANS ON TRACK TO SAVE OVER $2.3 MILLION As the official partner of DVA’s Veterans’ Recognition Program, Australian Partners of Defence (APOD) expect that veterans accessing benefits through APOD are on track to save $2.3 million this year. These savings, which are accessed using the APOD platform, have provided much-needed assistance for more than 67,500 veteran families, who have facing everything from bushfires to COVID-19 in the past nine months. By supporting those businesses who recognise the veteran community, APOD members have also stimulated the economy during this challenging time.

Veterans have saved on a range of items including everyday groceries, car tyres, electrical items, accommodation and more. Each week up to a dozen new discounts are added to the APOD platform. These are provided by large national organisations, small local business and a vast range of veteranowned businesses. APOD is available to veterans and their spouses entirely free of charge. If you haven’t already, you can register online at APOD.com.au or contact their friendly team on 1300 00 APOD (2763). APOD is a small Australian organisation founded and run by veteran families, for veteran families. Established in 2012, it is passionate about supporting veterans and their families by facilitating access to discounts and benefits in recognition of their service.

Prepare for the bushfire season Do you live in a bushfire prone area? Now is a good time to start preparing your home for the upcoming bushfire season. Eligible veterans can have a one-off yard and gutter clean as a fire-reduction precaution under the Veterans’ Home Care (VHC) program. The VHC program can assist you to continue living independently by providing some practical help around the home, including safetyrelated home and garden maintenance that can reduce hazards. If you would like more information or to be assessed for VHC services, please contact a VHC Assessment Agency on 1300 550 450.

How to contact DVA dva.gov.au 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) (8am–5pm, Mon–Fri) Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling 1800 011 046 (24/7 service) openarms.gov.au

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N E W S Coronavirus effect on veterans’ pensions Due to the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, veteran pensions did not increase in September. Veteran pension payments reassessed on 20 September 2020 remained at current rates. Veteran pensions are indexed in March and September each year in line with changes in the cost of living and wages. Veteran pension payment recipients will have received two economic support payments in April and July 2020 totalling $1500 as part of the overall economic support from the Australian Government. As announced in the Budget on 6 October 2020, they will also receive two further payments of $250 in December 2020 and March 2021. Veterans and their families experiencing financial hardship due to the coronavirus should contact DVA for assistance. For more information on financial support and a full list of pension rates, please visit dva.gov.au or call 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).

Education Schemes Survey shows positive results In June 2020, DVA conducted its annual Education Schemes Satisfaction Survey to measure the success of the Veterans’ Children Education Scheme and the MRCA Education and Training Scheme. Overall, the results were very positive – 88.5% of respondents reported the Education Schemes were effective or very effective in supporting them or their dependants with their education. This is a three per cent increase in satisfaction compared to 2019. There was a 13 per cent increase in awareness of the range of support under the Education Schemes. One in three respondents did not know about additional support (including tuition, career guidance and counselling) and were interested in additional tuition in particular.

Coronavirus Supplement Since 27 April 2020, eligible students under the Schemes have received the temporary Coronavirus Supplement of $550, in addition to their fortnightly education allowance. From 25 September 2020 to 31 December 2020, these students will receive the Coronavirus Supplement of $250 a fortnight. This is an extension of the payment from its original end date of 24 September 2020. For more information, visit the the DVA website (dva.gov.au and search for ‘Education schemes’).

Townsville Wellbeing Centre under construction.

Veteran Wellbeing Centres well underway

In 2019, the Government committed $30 million to develop a network of six Veteran Wellbeing Centres across Australia in partnership with ex-service organisations and state and territory governments. The centres will be located in Townsville, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, Wodonga and Nowra. Once established, the centres will deliver integrated support to veterans and their families from government, business and community partnerships. They will help connect veterans and their families to a range of core services that will include support for transition, employment, health and social connection. Each centre is at a different stage of development. In Townsville, The Oasis Centre started main building

works in mid-July. In Adelaide, construction work has begun on the Veteran Wellbeing Centre site. The construction of the new Veteran Central facility in Perth’s CBD is near completion. The other sites – in Darwin, Nowra and Wodonga – are at earlier stages of development, with seed funding provided to the partner organisations to develop concepts, site plans and service models.

DVA is working with the ACT Government to undertake a joint feasibility study into the potential for a national research centre and telehealth or digital health hub located in Canberra. DVA is also working with the Tasmanian Government to undertake a feasibility study into the potential for a veteran wellbeing service for the state. The study is being conducted by the University of Tasmania. The feasibility study will consider services and support for veterans and their families in consultation with the ex-service community and other stakeholders. More information is available on the DVA website (dva.gov.au and search for ‘Veteran Wellbeing Centres’).

Countdown to inclusion of veterans in Census Monday 10 August marked the one year countdown to the 2021 Australian Census. Next year’s Census is of great importance to DVA as it will include a question about service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester welcomed the announcement from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) to include an ADF question. Mr Chester said that the Census will provide a better understanding of how many veterans Australia has and where they live, allowing DVA to deliver the right

services in the right areas to support veterans needs. ‘Historically, just because a person served in the ADF doesn’t mean they required services or support from DVA, making it hard to give a definitive answer on how many veterans are in Australia,’ Mr Chester said. ‘The Census will provide better data to help guide services and support for Australia’s veterans, and will help inform our policy response to issues facing veterans, such as health, housing and employment. The data will also have the potential to help state and

territory government agencies and ex-service organisations better target and improve services and support. The exact wording of the question is yet to be finalised. Information on the ‘test’ question (which separated out permanent and reserve service, along with current or previous service) is on the ABS website at www.abs.gov. au/census.

Nominations for PM’s Veterans’ Employment Awards now open Do you know an organisation or an individual who should be recognised as a leader in veteran employment?

Nominate them now for the 2021 Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Awards. ‘Hiring a veteran is good for business,’ Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester said. ‘The extensive range of skills, abilities, behaviours and attributes veterans gained in the Australian Defence Force make them an asset to any workplace.’ These Awards recognise organisations who employ and support veterans during their transition to civilian employment. They also

showcase veterans who are making a significant contribution as either an employee or entrepreneur. If you know either an organisation committed to veteran employment or individual veterans who are running successful businesses or are outstanding employees, nominate them for an Award. Nominations are open until 20 November 2020. For more information or to nominate, visit the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program website (veteransemployment.gov.au and click on ‘Awards’).

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C O V I D - 1 9 Financial support from the Government Coronavirus Supplement extended to 31 December The Australian Government’s support for the Australian community through the coronavirus pandemic continues with the extension of the Coronavirus Supplement to 31 December 2020.

Where you can find help If you are struggling during this time or need someone to talk to: • Contact our 24/7 Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling service on 1800 011 046. • The Australian Government’s Head to Health website has a dedicated page for COVID-19 Support, including links to trusted Australian online and phone supports and resources. It is a useful source of authoritative information and guidance on maintaining good mental health during the coronavirus pandemic and in self-isolation, how to support children and loved ones, and accessing further mental health services and care. • For those experiencing domestic violence, contact 1800 RESPECT. • MensLine Australia, is a telephone and online counselling service for men with emotional health and relationship concerns and the Men’s Referral Service works with men to end their violence and abuse towards family members. Phone 1300 789 978 or visit mensline.org.au • If you have at least one day of continuous full-time service in the ADF, you may be eligible for free mental health treatment under Non-Liability Health Care (NLHC), regardless of the link to military service. Reservists without continuous full-time service who participated in disaster relief, border protection operations or who were involved in a a serious service-related training accident, may also be eligible. More information can be found on the DVA website www.dva.gov.au. • Lifeline offers personal crisis support services. Call 131 114 at any time. • Kids Helpline is a free service for young people aged 5 to 25. Kids, teens and young adults can call 1800 551 800 at any time. • To test eligibility for income support payments including JobSeeker, contact Services Australia by visiting servicesaustralia.gov.au. • The Kookaburra Kids program supports children of veterans who are experiencing mental health distress. It recently launched an online chat service called Kookaburra Kids Connect. For more information, see page 17.

Veterans stepping up during COVID By Anastasia Bougesis, Chief Development Officer, Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) When Australia found itself in the grips of a never before seen pandemic, it was no surprise that veterans were sought to stand on the front line. The fight against COVID-19 in both Sydney and Melbourne has seen members of DRA (formerly Team Rubicon Australia) employed to support operations on the frontline. Their unique skills and experience leave them well placed to provide workforce solutions in the midst of crisis. Across the nation, our veterans are stepping up in the fight against an unseen enemy. DRA’s efforts are supported by the $3 million in Government funding to roll out employment-related programs through a one-off grant package. For the full story, visit the DVA website (dva.gov.au and search for ‘DRA’).

The payment rate of $550 per fortnight has been changed to $250 per fortnight from 25 September to the end of the calendar year.

fortnight changed to a two-tier payment rate from 28 September, providing $1200 per fortnight for full-time workers and $750 per fortnight for employees who worked fewer than 20 hours per week. From 4 January 2021, the rate will be $1000 per fortnight and $650 per fortnight respectively. Read more on the DVA website.

Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment

Read more on the DVA website.

On 3 August, the Prime Minister announced a pandemic leave disaster payment.

Changes to JobKeeper Payment and income reporting Businesses and charities impacted by the coronavirus crisis can access a wage subsidy, known as JobKeeper, from the Australian Government to help them to continue paying their employees.

People living in Victoria and Tasmania who do not have enough sick leave through their employer and are required to self-isolate due to COVID-19 can access $1500 for the fortnight through Services Australia. The dedicated enquiries line is 180 22 66.

The JobKeeper Payment has been extended to March 2021, with changes to payment rates occurring from 28 September 2020. The previous payment rate per eligible employee of $1500 per

More information is available on the Services Australia website.

This payment is not available to those who receive a JobSeeker payment or a JobKeeper payment.

Connecting with DVA Limited booked face-to-face service delivery is returning to Veteran Access Network (VAN) shopfronts for veterans and their families. DVA’s Veteran Support Officers (VSO) have returned to the majority of Defence bases. Remote (telephone) service delivery is occurring in Victoria while the COVID19 situation warrants reduced movement and limited faceto-face service provision. In all other States and Territories, services are being provided in line with COVID19 safe social-distancing restrictions. VSOs provide personalised DVA advice and services to all ADF members. They can advise on your current and future DVA entitlements, assist in establishing a MyService account, explain how

to navigate DVA’s online services, assist in lodging an injury/illness claim and provide tailored transition support. To arrange an appointment please email vso@dva.gov.au. DVA will continue to uphold the recommended measures to ensure the health and safety of all. Service delivery continues to be available via telephone and online through MyService, and the department can still be contacted to arrange a face-to-face appointment where necessary. Veterans and their families, many of whom are in higher risk categories, are still encouraged to use telephone and online services in the first instance by accessing MyService, lodging an online enquiry or calling 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).

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C O V I D - 1 9 My experience with COVID-19

PROF JENNY FIRMAN Chief Health Officer Department of Veterans’ Affairs

2020 has been an unpredictable year for me, as it has for most people. In Canberra, the year started with weeks of smoke after the horrendous bushfire season. Then the threat of a novel coronavirus arose. My work prior to my DVA appointment in February 2019 was at the Department of Health, managing communicable disease threats and health emergencies, so I knew how busy that team must be with these two events. Then in early February, the Commonwealth Chief Medical Officer asked DVA’s Secretary Liz Cosson to allow me to return to Health to assist in the response to COVID-19, and that’s where I stayed for the next five months as one of the Commonwealth Deputy Chief Medical Officers. This experience, while involving a lot of hard work and very long hours, has been a highlight of my medical career. While this was a novel coronavirus, the approach to managing a respiratory disease threat was one that Health had worked on over many years. Following the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, plans to tackle a respiratory pandemic were reviewed and rewritten. These were evidence-based and included advice on which measures were most effective in controlling the spread of disease. This included mathematical modelling that looked

at different scenarios and the effect of different interventions, such as where to target antivirals and immunisation to achieve the optimal effect as well as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) under different models of care. These plans were developed with input from the states and territories, which developed corresponding pandemic plans. While this planning had been focused on an influenza pandemic, there were many features of the plan that could be applied to other communicable diseases. Over the years since 2009, the principles and practices in the plans were tested with other disease outbreaks including the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), the Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa and then the Zika virus epidemic. In early February, the modellers adapted the influenza models to the evidence emerging about the novel coronavirus and were able to conduct scenario modelling that showed the potential effects of such a disease. We then provided this information and advice to the Government, which immediately took steps to reduce transmission of COVID-19 in Australia. Though we were as prepared as we could be to deal with a pandemic of a new disease, the number of unknown facts about COVID-19 soon highlighted the enormity of the task Australia was facing. The public health tools to tackle a respiratory virus epidemic and pandemic include identifying and testing, contact tracing and isolation, travel restrictions, social distancing, immunisation and antiviral treatments. Unfortunately, immunisation and antivirals were not available for COVID-19, so it was important to implement the other public health measures effectively in order to control this disease. This was where the planning over all those years with health authorities from the Commonwealth and the states and territories was so important. Not only did we have the plans in place but, just as importantly, we had formed strong relationships between the federal and

jurisdictional health authorities that meant working together on a common problem was not new. Australians should be proud of how well the jurisdictional health teams have united to tackle this pandemic. Many of the challenges related to the sheer size and duration of the response. The health emergency policy sections of all health departments swelled rapidly. Communications and liaison officers were vital to keeping the public as well as the rest of government informed. Offers of assistance from all over the country were received and many public servants and Defence Force personnel were seconded to assist. Unfortunately, the Chinese city of Wuhan is a major PPE manufacturing centre. So at the same time as the rest

as possible. Ventilators were sourced and training delivered for nurses to care for patients in ICU. Pathology testing was critical to identifying all the cases. Australian pathologists quickly developed COVID-19 tests and shared this knowledge with the world. Testing consumables were the next items to come under supply pressure and both private sector and governments sourced a range of test kits and platforms to allow Australia to test at one of the highest rates in the world. As the numbers of cases climbed, more public health measures were put in place. Social distancing, including movement restrictions and keeping 1.5 metres from other people, hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene were emphasised and then

the community. As I write, Victoria is experiencing a resurgence of cases and reapplying all the measures and lessons learned over the last few months. It is harder the second time around to experience social and movement restrictions but the important lessons we learned need to be reapplied. With every individual contributing to control of the virus we can control the spread of COVID-19. You can do this by: • staying home if you are unwell • getting tested if you have symptoms • isolating if you are a contact • social distancing • applying hand and respiratory hygiene • complying with health and government advice and directions.

This is a novel coronavirus and we are still learning about how it affects individuals and spreads in the community.

of the world realised they needed more PPE supplies, this important manufacturing centre was affected. A Department of Health team worked tirelessly to source PPE supplies for the national stockpile and distribute them to where they were most needed. With the experience of Wuhan and then the grim news coming from Italy and then the UK, the focus shifted to intensive care unit (ICU) capabilities, including access to ventilators, trained staff and beds and making sure our health system was as ready

enforced through public health legislation. Australians responded magnificently and in response the case numbers fell. Soon the new cases being reported were largely among travellers in quarantine. I’m sure everyone breathed a collective sigh of relief and were pleased to know that we had avoided the terrible health outcomes seen in some European countries and by then unfolding in New York. However, this is a novel coronavirus and we are still learning about how it affects individuals and spreads in

We must change our behaviours and learn to live with this virus because, while researchers all around the world are focused on developing a vaccine, this is still some time in the future. The national response to this pandemic is still ongoing but the Australian response and the ability of our health care sector to respond has been heartening. There is still a long way to go but you can be assured the foundations for the pandemic response are strong.

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C O V I D - 1 9 MEETING YOUR REHABILITATION NEEDS Rehabilitation Program

Engaging with your health professionals

Community Nursing program If you currently receive DVA-funded community nursing services, your provider can develop an individual pandemic plan with you and your family to help you stay well during the pandemic.

The Government has extended telehealth measures to all AustralThe plan will help you prepare for how to ians. Veterans and their families continue to have your essential needs met durcan access health services from ing the pandemic. their homes via video link or You can ask your provider to develop this telephone. plan with you if they do not approach you first. These telehealth services include access to GPs, medical specialists, allied health and mental health professionals. Those who need to visit their doctor face-to-face can continue to do so. From 20 July 2020, patients (including veterans) can only access government-funded GP services via telehealth from a GP or general practice with whom they have an existing and continuous relationship – defined as having had a face-to-face consultation with the GP themselves, or a GP in the same practice, during the previous 12 months. DVA has also extended access to telehealth arrangements for rehabilitation and mental health day programs through private hospitals. As always, contact your GP in the first instance, for your health service needs, and remember – call first. If your GP recommends that you need to visit for an appointment, transport is available to help you access treatment. To make a booking call Transport Bookings on 1800 550 455.

Providers should give you a copy of the plan for you, your family or people providing support to refer to. For more information on DVA’s Community Nursing program, visit the DVA website (dva. gov.au and search for ‘community nursing’).

Medicine delivery Vulnerable people, including eligible veterans, can order their Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS) prescriptions remotely, and have their medicines homedelivered, once a month, to reduce their potential exposure to COVID-19. You can visit the Department of Health website (health.gov.au) for information on e-prescribing and home medicine services, or contact your local pharmacy.

VETERANS CAN ACCESS PERSONAL MONITORING TECHNOLOGY DVA has a range of personal monitoring technologies such as personal response systems available to eligible veterans, widows and widowers under the Rehabilitation Appliances Program. These personal response systems are fully monitored 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

Accessing and installing a personal response system may be suitable for older veterans, widows and widowers if they are self-isolating to protect themselves from exposure to COVID-19. To minimise any contact, personal response systems can be left at the doorstep with instructions for self-installation. In-home installation can be arranged only if self-installation is not appropriate. Read the full article on the DVA website (dva. gov.au and search for ‘personal monitoring’).

DVA has been working closely with your DVA Rehabilitation Program provider to ensure that they are delivering rehabilitation services and supports in line with your State or Territory’s health advice. In line with the changing COVID-19 restrictions and situation, your provider may be in touch to discuss, review and adjust some of the activities outlined in your rehabilitation plan. If you live in, or near, a restricted area and have found it difficult to access or participate in certain plan activities, your provider may discuss the need to extend your plan’s end date so you are able to achieve your goals. Please contact your DVA rehabilitation provider if you have any queries or concerns relating to your rehabilitation program in general. For more information on DVA’s Rehabilitation Program, visit the DVA website (dva.gov.au and search for ‘rehabilitation’).

Rehabilitation Appliances Program If you are receiving aids and appliances under the Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP) that do not require complex set up, installation or training, and can be delivered by mail or courier, the item will be sent directly to you. For example, Personal Response Systems may be left at your doorstep with instructions for self-installation to minimise any contact. In-home installation will occur only if self-installation is not appropriate. Suppliers of RAP items that require close contact will check your consent to supply/install items in the home. If consent is provided, all safety precautions will be followed in line with the Department of Health’s advice and industry protocols. If consent is not provided, the supply/install will be deferred to a later date. For more information on the RAP, visit the DVA website (dva.gov.au and search for ‘equipment and modifications’).

RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE As many DVA clients currently reside in aged care, some veterans may be affected by pandemic restrictions or lockdowns at their aged-care residence over the coming months. The Minister for Health has said that protecting vulnerable people in residential aged care is a top priority and has announced additional measures to make sure people living in aged care, and the health workers who support them, receive what they need to be safe. This includes: • increased telehealth arrangements to people living in aged care, so they can access health services • transferring aged-care residents from residential aged-care facilities to hospitals, when appropriate to do so

• emergency surge workforce at any COVID-19 aged-care sites, including a clinical first responder, registered and enrolled nurses, personal care workers and general practitioners, where needed • additional protective equipment and a range of additional supports for residential aged-care health workers. DVA is monitoring the situation and liaising closely with the Department of Health to monitor the impacts on veterans in residential aged care. If you are concerned and need more information on COVID19 and aged care, you can visit the Australian Government Department of Health’s website at www.health.gov.au, and type in ‘aged care’. You can also call the Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Mental health support for the veteran community Veterans and their families now have greater access to mental health support services with the addition of four new Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling offices. The opening of these offices – two relocations to larger premises, and two new sites, allows Open Arms to future-proof the lifetime support that is available to veterans and their families. Now with more than 30 office locations and more than 1,300 community-based mental health providers, Open Arms can provide high quality, free and confidential counselling and support services to more Australian veterans and their families. As with many members of the broader community, Open Arms’ clients experience challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship concerns and parenting and family issues. The difference with Open Arms is that staff members have specialist training in the military experience.

What is Veterans’ Home Care? Veterans’ Home Care (VHC) is a program funded through DVA. It provides a small amount of practical assistance to help eligible veterans continue to live independently in their homes.

What kind of practical help is available? VHC offers the following services based on assessed needs with limits: Domestic Help Activities may include: • Internal house cleaning • Unaccompanied shopping using a shopping list • Unaccompanied bill paying Personal Care – maximum of 90 minutes per week for assistance with self-care. Activities may include assistance with: • Showering/toileting • Getting in and out of bed • Eating Respite Care – up to 196 hours per financial year • In-Home Respite – allows a carer to have a break • Residential Respite – short-term care away from home (usually provided in an Australian Government subsidised aged-care facility) when the carer is unable to provide care • Emergency Short-term Respite – provides for up to three days of care in the home if the carer suddenly becomes unable to provide care Safety-Related Home and Garden Maintenance – maximum of 15 hours per year to minimise hazards and keep the home in a safe and habitable condition. Activities may include: • Replacing light bulbs • Cleaning gutters and windows • Changing batteries in smoke and/or security alarms Please note that other activities may be available based on your assessed needs.

Open Arms services include: • 24/7 counselling support through a dedicated support line – 1800 011 046 • Face-to-face and video counselling for individuals, couples and families • Care coordination for clients with multiple and/or complex needs • Peer support and veteran community engagement by those with lived experience of Defence service and mental health recovery, as either a veteran or family member • Online and face-to-face group treatment programs to develop skills and enhance support for individuals and couples • Suicide prevention and intervention workshops and online training • Mental health training programs • Crisis accommodation support • Referrals to other services or specialist treatment programs, as needed • Information, education and self-help resources on the Open Arms website (openarms.gov.au).

If you or someone you know wants someone to talk to, even just for a chat, Open Arms is available 24/7 by calling 1800 011 046. The service is free and confidential, and there is always a team member who understands the military experience available to answer your call. And for those who have concerns about anonymity, Open Arms also hosts an anonymous 24/7 support line – Safe Zone Support – which was created to help vulnerable cohorts of veterans and their families who might not otherwise seek mental health care – including those in the Special Forces. Calls to 1800 142 072 are answered 24/7, and are not recorded. For more Information visit: openarms. gov.au/safe-zone-support. Founded by Vietnam veterans, now for all veterans and families.

How do I get VHC services? You need to be eligible (see below) and complete an assessment questionnaire over the phone. Simply call 1300 550 450 and a VHC Assessment Agency will guide you through the process.

Am I eligible for Veterans’ Home Care? If you have a Veteran Gold Card or a Veteran White Card for an accepted service related injury and condition, you are eligible for a VHC assessment. If you have complex or high-level needs, you will be referred to other services and programs more appropriate to your needs.

Can someone else answer the Assessment Questions for me? Yes. A carer, close family member or someone with an appropriate power of attorney can answer the questions once you provide your consent.

Are there any costs involved? Yes. However, the costs are capped to limit their impact on your budget. • Domestic Assistance is capped at $5 per week • Personal Care is $5 per hour, capped at $10 per week • Safety-Related Home and Garden Maintenance is $5 per hour, capped at $75 in a 12-month period. There is no co-payment for Respite Care services. If you feel that you can’t afford the co-payments, you can apply for a waiver using an ‘Application for Waiver of Veterans’ Home Care Copayments’ form (visit dva.gov.au and search for ‘VHC waiver’). Each application is assessed taking into account individual circumstances and the decision is advised by letter.

Still have questions? Call your VHC Assessment Agency on 1300 550 450.

Resuming VHC services During the COVID-19 lockdown, did you suspend your Veterans’ Home Care (VHC) services but now want them to resume? If so, then simply call your local VHC Assessment Agency on 1300 550 450 to advise them that you would like to resume your services.

Navigating DVA’s aged-care services DVA understands that as you get older, you might need a little more help with some activities of daily living. We also understand that navigating the agedcare system can be challenging for you and your family. To help, DVA has developed two new books: The veteran’s guide to living independently – Accessing DVA services details the services available to help support you at home, and their eligibility requirements. Whether it’s giving you a hand with household tasks, like changing the bed or doing the washing or vacuuming. You might need help caring for a wound or assistance with personal care (such as showering), or providing equipment to help you stay safe. DVA has services and programs that can help. Most services are provided quickly, usually within two weeks of an over-the-phone assessment at little to no cost. Moving into an aged-care home can be stressful. The veteran’s guide to moving into an aged-care home – Accessing DVA services will guide you through this process and provide you with details of the DVA services available once you have moved in. To download these books or to order hardcopies, go to the aged-care resources page on the DVA website dva.gov.au/ac or call DVA on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).

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Finding meaning among the chaos Given the events of this year, we could be forgiven for thinking we are all going to hell in a hand basket. The inclination to want to bury our heads under the doona and not come out for a very long time is enticing.

DR LORETTA POERIO Senior Mental Health Adviser Department of Veterans’ Affairs

It is difficult to find hope among the chaos at times, but that is exactly what we need to do. This will take some effort and perseverance, and the good news is the little things you do matter. Since the 1950s, meaning in life has been associated with our sense of psychological wellbeing. An increased sense of meaning in life has been shown across a range of

The COVID-19 pandemic, economic uncertainty, social isolation and physical confinement are issues we are all grappling with on one level or another. studies to correlate positively with wellbeing. Deakin University has been conducting the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index survey as a measure of Australian wellbeing since 2001. A key area identified as critical to our wellbeing is having a sense of purpose. People who are keenly engaged in an activity or activities that they find meaningful and that provides a sense of connection

and responsibility have increased wellbeing. The time we are spending at home provides a good opportunity to reflect on what is important to us and what we can do, in small ways, to find purpose in our lives. This can come through a range of activities like growing your own vegetables, herbs and flowers, reading to your grandchildren (even if it is

DVA support for homeless veterans Veteran homelessness is a priority for DVA. If you are homeless, or at risk of being homeless, we are here to help. Please contact DVA on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) or Open Arms on 1800 011 046. DVA will work with individuals to help them access their entitlements, crisis payments or crisis accommodation, referrals to local homelessness support services, and information about a network of other organisations that can assist them. Many of the risk factors that can contribute to veteran homelessness are similar to those for the general population. These include negative life events like relationship breakdown, unemployment and mental health issues.

Housing is fundamental to the welfare of all Australians and the Government is supporting state and territory governments by providing more than $6 billion per year to improve housing and homelessness outcomes for all Australians, including veterans and their families. DVA is investing significantly in addressing the unique risk factors for homelessness that can arise from military service. Early assistance is vital to prevent housing instability and homelessness and this is DVA’s focus. DVA has been delivering positive changes to the veterans’ support system by focusing on mental health and wellbeing, from introducing free mental health care for

anyone with at least one day of continuous full-time service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), to providing immediate financial support to veterans who have lodged a compensation claim for a mental health condition. DVA-funded mental health services include services provided by psychiatrists, general practitioners and allied mental health providers, pharmaceuticals and inpatient and outpatient hospital treatment. Specialised counselling support is also available through the Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling Service. Open Arms provides 24/7 free and confidential counselling and works with veterans to access the most appropriate care. Open Arms also delivers

over a video link), volunteering at your local ex-service organisation (within physical distancing guidelines), helping a neighbour, remodelling an old (vintage) car, joining a bible study group, or learning a new skill. A little creativity and stepping out of your comfort zone is necessary, especially with COVID-19, but the rewards are great. Connectedness to nature is one avenue that can provide and enhance our sense of purpose and meaning in life, and a higher level of wellbeing. Spending a day in nature is something we do instinctively when we need ‘time out’ to recharge. The feeling of being at peace with the world and having a different perspective on life is a common story. Research is also pointing to the mental health benefits of being close to nature, finding that greater access to green space in the home neighbourhood to be associated with less depression. Higher levels of green space have also been associated with decreased a crisis accommodation program that aims to provide ‘time-out’ accommodation to alleviate a crisis situation like a potentially conflicting domestic situation or an immediate housing crisis. For those veterans most at risk, DVA provides intensive case management support through its Coordinated Client Support and the Wellbeing and Support Program. Veteran White Cards are issued to all personnel leaving the ADF and DVA is working with the Department of Defence to improve transition support. Veteran Support Officers (VSO) are available to all serving and transitioning ADF members, providing enhanced DVA services with a greater on-base presence and consistent way of delivering support with tailored, expert advice at the right time. VSOs also help DVA connect with more ADF members so DVA gets to know them and their families well before they leave the ADF. Through DVA’s Early Engagement Model, ADF members who joined from 1 January 2016, and those who separated after 27 July 2016, are registered with DVA. This information facilitates an email on enlistment, and a letter on separation, from DVA Secretary Liz Cosson AM

stress with a 2019 study finding that spending 15 to 20 minutes in green space or a park significantly lowered stress hormones in participants. There is some evidence that even when viewed through a window, nature has positive effects on wellbeing.

Critical to our wellbeing is a sense of purpose. The news gets better, as not only can connecting to nature improve our sense of wellbeing, it is something that is essentially free and readily available to us at any time, like getting out in your garden, walking through green spaces in cities and neighbourhoods, and bushwalking through parks and forests. This makes connecting with nature an intervention worth considering. Citations can be provided on request.

CSC, which outlines DVA’s services. DVA is enhancing employment support for veterans through targeted rehabilitation programs that aid vocational and non-vocational outcomes, education and training support, and the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program. The department is committed to enhancing partnerships between the Commonwealth and other jurisdictions, and working with the homelessness sector as set out in the Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy and National Action Plan 2020–2023 (the strategy is available at www.dva. gov.au/mental-health-strategy). One of the ways this approach is being actioned is through a new partnership between DVA and the Community Housing Industry Association which will help housing providers better understand veteran need. Early assistance is the key, so don’t leave it too late to ask for help. More information about DVA support services can be found on the DVA website.

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Australians remember our Second World War veterans On 15 August 2020, Australians tuned into watch a national commemorative service acknowledging the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. The service was broadcast nationally on TV and livestreamed online and on social media. This provided all Australians with the opportunity to remember and thank an incredible generation of Australians for their service during the Second World War. Almost one million Australians served during the War. Remarkably, some 12,000 Second World War veterans are still with us today. Three of them — Mr Derek Holyoake (Royal Australian Navy), Mr Les Cook (Australian Army) and Mr Lance Cooke (Royal

Australian Air Force) — attended the closed-for-TV National Commemorative service at the Australian War Memorial. Dignitaries including the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and Her Excellency Linda Hurley and the Prime Minister Scott Morrison, joined these remarkable veterans in commemorating those who served and remembering the fallen. Australia’s Federation Guard formed an honour guard to welcome Mr Holyoake, Mr Cook and Mr Cooke to the Australian War Memorial. Dr Matilda House, a Ngambri elder, opened the service with a Welcome to Country and acknowledged the service and sacrifice of Indigenous Australians during

the Second World War, as her great-grandson, Michael House, a proud Ngambri man, stood by her side proudly wearing the medals of his great-grandfather, Frederick James. ‘[It was] a time of sacrifice and struggle,’ Prime Minister Morrison said as he described the commitment of Australians to their nation. ‘And of a great victory that changed the course of human history. During the Second World War, one million Australians wore our uniform and made the silent promise to give their lives for their country, if need be.’ Prime Minister Morrison personally thanked Mr Holyoake, Mr Cook and Mr Cooke and extended this recognition to that incredible generation of Australians. ‘Now in your sunset, we honour you. We honour your generation — in my view,

Australia’s greatest — and we say thank you.’ The National Commemorative Service concluded with the Dismount of the Catafalque Party and a flypast of two historic aircraft — a CA-16 Wirraway Trainer and a Lockheed Hudson Bomber.

If you missed the live broadcast of the national commemorative service, you can livestream it on the Commemorations and War Graves Australia Facebook page or on the ABC’s on-demand and catch-up TV service, ABC iview (until 13 November).

Above: Second World War veterans Lance Cooke and Derek Holyoake. Left: The national commemorative service at the Australian War Memorial. From far left: Mr Les Cook; Mr Lance Cooke; Mr Derek Holyoake; Prime Minister Scott Morrison; Principal Chaplain Darren Jaensch, Director General Chaplaincy – Army; Chief of the Defence Force, General Angus Campbell AO DSC; Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Michael Noonan AO RAN. To the latter’s right are Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Rick Burr AO DSC MVO; Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Mel Hupfield AO DSC. © Commonwealth of Australia 2020

VP Day in Darwin A commemorative ceremony for Victory in the Pacific Day took place in Darwin at the USS Peary Memorial. The image shows Austin Asche AC QC being presented with a Commemorative Medallion and Certificate of Commemoration by the local Member for Parliament, Luke Gosling. Mr Asche served in

the RAAF from 1944 to 1946 and in 1987 became Chief Justice of the Northern Territory Supreme Court. He was the Administrator of the Northern Territory from 1993 to 1997. He is believed to be the only surviving Second World War veteran living in Darwin. Darwin played a significant role in Australia’s Second

World War history, and was repeatedly bombed as part of an air campaign fought across northern Australia. The most notable battle, the Bombing of Darwin, occurred on 19 February 1942 when around 250 Australians and Allied personnel were killed by 188 Japanese aircraft. The destroyer USS Peary was sunk during the bombing and remains in Darwin Harbour today.

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AFL and NRL honour Second World War veterans Left: Umpire David Harris uses the Commemorative Medallion for the coin toss in the AFL match between Carlton and Fremantle, while Fremantle captain Nathan Fyfe (left) and Carlton co-captain Sam Docherty look on. Photo courtesy of the AFL. Right: (from left) NRL Panthers captain James Tamou, Adam Gee (referee), Warriors captain Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.

For the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, DVA partnered with the NRL and AFL to commemorate the service and sacrifice of our Second World War veterans.

Both organisations showed their support by acknowledging the anniversary on their social media channels and before matches. Two NRL games took place on the eve of the anniversary. The Parramatta Eels faced the St George Illawarra Dragons and the New Zealand Warriors faced the Penrith Panthers. The kick-off for both games was decided by a special

coin toss, which featured the Second World War Commemorative Medallion produced by DVA. The following day, on 15 August, Australia marked the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. In the game between Fremantle Dockers and Carlton, the AFL acknowledged our Second World War veterans by also

using the Commemorative Medallion for the coin toss. The Commemorative Medallion and Certificate is available to every living veteran of the Second World War. One side of the coin features the Commonwealth Coat of Arms, wording of appreciation and identifies by name theatres of war that saw the significant involvement of Australian armed forces. The medallion’s reverse side has

Princess Anne talks to Australian veteran In the lead-up to the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal had a video conversation with Australian Second World War veteran Les Cook.

Les Cook. Photo: Australian War Memorial.

During the roughly 45-minute conversation, 97-yearold Les reflected on his experiences serving as a corporal in the 2nd Australian Imperial Force (AIF) from 1940 to 1947. The backdrop for the Zoom call was a display in the Second World War galleries of the Australian War Memorial (AWM) in Canberra. Mr Cook was introduced to Princess Anne by DVA Secretary Liz Cosson AM CSC and AWM Director Matt Anderson PSM. Ms Cosson said Les was in fine form and thoroughly enjoyed sharing his experiences. ‘It was truly humbling to hear Les share his memories from the War with Princess Anne,’ Ms Cosson said. ‘We only have around 12,000 Second World War veterans with us today, from the one million Australians who served, and Les is truly one in a million.’ ‘Her Royal Highness is Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals and she was keen to hear of Les’s experiences as a Signaller during the war,’ Mr Anderson said. Born in England, Les enlisted in the AIF in May 1940 soon after his 17th birthday. Having learnt

the poppy as the central symbol surrounded by the words ‘Australia Remembers’ and the beginning and end years of the war. Applications can still be made online by visiting the following portal: portal.nationalmailing.com. au/DVA/certificate If you don’t have access to the internet, you can phone 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).

telegraphy at night school in civilian life, he was posted to the 1st Australian Corps as a signaller and sent to the Middle East. Les served in the campaigns in the Western Desert, Greece, Crete, New Guinea and Borneo. He describes traversing the Kokoda Track as a process of climbing ‘never-ending hills with a multitude of heartbreaking false crests. When we got to the top of each one, too tired to take off our equipment, we just collapsed on the ground as we were’. Before dawn on 15 August 1945, Les heard a lot of gunfire near his position. Assuming that the Japanese had broken through, he and his comrades prepared for an attack. It was only later that day that they discovered the gunfire had been their fellow Australians celebrating the end of the War. Les then served in Japan for a year as a part of the Australian contingent of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force. Les said he felt honoured by the interest Her Royal Highness took in his wartime experiences, and her kind words. ‘I believe it was a privilege to enlist in the AIF,’ Les told Princess Anne. With his voice breaking with emotion, Les proudly quoted the final lines of a Second World War poem written by an Australia serviceman which read: ‘In spite of our critics, this war will end. And those of us that are left, will proudly proclaim: I was in the AIF’. ‘As you get older, your eyesight and hearing gets weaker but the emotion gets stronger,’ Les said. An edited version of the video is available on YouTube.

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How Australians marked the 75th anniversary The #OneInAMillion Wall of Respect project was launched by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester at the beginning of August. Many Australians joined in by sharing on social media images and stories of their family members who served. Dr Kerri-Ann Woodbury, a veteran herself, shared the love story of her grandfather who served in Dutch New Guinea and Bougainville. Dr Woodbury’s grandfather pulled his future wife’s name out of a hat when she and some friends offered to be pen pals for deployed soldiers. They later became engaged via mail. He was one of the fortunate ones who returned to Australia and they lived a long and happy life together. Australians also explored their own family history, and discovered more about a relative who served. All they had

to do was ‘Just Ask’ the question. A new education activity was created to further encourage students to learn about our veterans and wartime history using the Nominal Rolls, which were recently consolidated into one website (nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au), making it easier to search and find information. Ancestry.com.au made access free to their military service records from 13 to 16 August to help Australians who wanted to dig a little deeper. It is never too late to ‘Just Ask’ and look in to your family history – get started now. The department also shared the stories of some remarkable Australians who served through the ‘75 days, 75 stories’ series and the animated video series ‘#OneInAMillion: Hearing their Stories’ project. Starting 75 days prior to the 75th anniversary, a story a day was released telling of someone who was impacted by the

war, from veterans to those on the home front or loved ones. The #OneInAMillion: Hearing their Stories project captured the compelling stories of eight Australians who served during the Second World War. Watch these animated videos on dva.gov.au to hear first-hand accounts of wartime experiences. The Second World War digital photo exhibition on dva. gov.au features 20 images of men and women who served during the war. Sites of Significance: Now and Then is a joint project with State and Territory governments to showcase what important locations across Australia looked like during the war, and what they look like now. Living Second World War veterans are also encouraged to apply for a specially produced Commemorative Medallion and certificate.

This edition of the military newspaper Table Tops was published on Victory in the Pacific Day 1945. The image was kindly provided by Vietnam veteran Don Limn, whose mother L/Cpl Janet Redway kept several editions of Table Tops. She was serving with the 2/9th Australian General Hospital on Morotai Island (in what is now Indonesia) when the war ended. As a nurse’s aide, she was caring for Australian POWS recently liberated from Changi and Ambon. Despite contracting tuberculosis on Morotai, she returned to Australia and married her Tobruk veteran fiancé the same day. She died at age 92. Table Tops was an Australian Army newspaper issued free to the troops published by the Australian Press Unit. It was first published in the Atherton Tablelands in 1943 and later in the war it was published on Morotai Island.

The medallion and certificate are available to every living veteran of the Second World War.

THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS HAS PRODUCED A COMMEMORATIVE MEDALLION AND CERTIFICATE OF COMMEMORATION TO MARK THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE END OF THE SECOND WORLD WAR.

While Australia can never repay the debt we owe almost one million Australians who served, this medallion and certificate are a small but meaningful way we can thank living veterans of the largest global conflict of the 20th century.

Applications can be made via www.dva.gov.au or by calling 1800 838 372.

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Five brothers who made it through Photographs taken by an Australian soldier during the Second World War are providing rare glimpses into everyday life during the Pacific campaign. As we remember the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War this year, Fred Bainbridge, 96, a veteran from Bundaberg, Queensland, has shared his photographic archive from the war with the Office of Australian War Graves. Mr Bainbridge enlisted in February 1942 and from 1943 to 45 served as a Bren gunner with the 26th Battalion, which was recruited in Queensland. In 1943, a company of the 26th was deployed to Dutch New Guinea to defend against any Japanese advance and later the whole battalion was sent to Bougainville to suppress the Japanese forces there. When war was declared, Fred was just 16 years old. But he put up his age so he could follow his four older brothers and join the fight:

• Walter served with the 2nd Field Artillery Regiment • Jack was a sapper with the 16 AFD Company • Henry served with the 11th Australian Field Ambulance • John was with the 11th Training Battalion. For their parents, Josephine and John (Sonny) Bainbridge, this was a nerve-racking time but remarkably all five sons made it home. Fred, a former marksman, said he too was surprised they survived the experience. ‘My mum dropped a tear every time the postman came,’ he said. ‘For five years, she got no information. I was the last one home, after 1,896 days in the Australian Army, 896 of them in New Guinea. ‘Once we were back in Australia, Mum got in touch and we all got together for two weeks. It was great to catch up, but we never talked army. Later, the Department of Defence sent her a badge [the Female Relative Badge issued to the nearest female relative of those who engaged in active service overseas] and she wore it with pride.’

The Bainbridge boys came from a tough life in western Queensland, working as stockmen, labourers and (in the case of Fred) a meatworker. ‘I wouldn’t say we were scared on patrols, we just got on and did o ur jobs, out in the mud and rain,’ he said. ‘I took a camera with me – Mum bought it for me before I went to war – and, when I could, I’d just walk around and take photos. ‘I had a mate (Bob Mason) who’d get films and, once I’d used them, he’d send them back to his mum in Adelaide. She’d get them developed and send the photos to my mum.’ Fred now has a collection of hundreds of images that depict the details of daily life for an Australian soldier in the Second World War: Japanese prisoners of war doing the Australians’ laundry and cleaning their boots, the disposal of enemy ammunition, and an American cinema being built for Allied troops. His frontline experiences and photographic adventures came to an end in 1945 when he was shot in the left shoulder and repatriated to Australia. He was discharged in August 1946.

Teddy Sheean in line for Victoria Cross Ordinary Seaman Edward ‘Teddy’ Sheean is a Tasmanian and Australian hero and his actions in the Second World War are certainly worthy of the Victoria Cross, our highest military honour for gallantry. The Prime Minister wrote to the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) requesting he seek the approval of Her Majesty The Queen to posthumously award the Victoria Cross for Australia to Teddy.

Her Majesty approved the request. ‘After decades of debate, this is a Victoria Cross for the people,’ said Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester. ‘Teddy would be our 101st Victoria Cross recipient and the first for our Navy and I couldn’t imagine a more worthy recipient. ‘I want to thank the Defence Honours, Awards and Appeals Tribunal for its diligence and independence, Guy Barnett and everyone else

After the war, despite his injury, Fred returned to work at the meatworks in Gladstone; then he held various jobs in road building. He married at the age of 38 and he and his wife Beris had two children, Andrew and Helen (who served in the RAAF). Seventy-five years on, Fred still keeps in touch with his mates – the others who

were also fortunate to come home – and he takes part in Anzac commemorations in Bundaberg. ‘My wife, Beris, wears Mum’s badge. We figure it must be a record for all five of us to have come home.’ For a selection of Fred’s war photographs, see the online version of this story on dva. gov.au/vetaffairs.

Vale Mostyn Berryman On 6 August 2020, Mostyn (Moss) Berryman passed away peacefully at his daughter’s home at the age of 96 years. He was cremated in Adelaide on 15 August.

involved for continuing to advocate for Teddy, and the review panel for providing new information to strengthen the case for the VC. ‘But most of all I want to thank Teddy Sheean’s family and friends for never giving up.’

Cornelis Geelhoed — An extraordinary 100 years Cornelis (Kees) Geelhoed who recently celebrated his 100th birthday is a multinational veteran. Mr Geelhoed served with the Dutch Air Force and was a Japanese Prisoner Of War (POW) for four years until the end of the Second World

Fred Bainbridge with the Commemorative Medallion.

War. He later moved to Australia and served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) for 17 years. Read his remarkable story in the online version of this edition of Vetaffairs (dva.gov.au/ vetaffairs).

Moss was a member of Operation Jaywick, one of the most well-known special forces missions of the Second World War. In 1943, Moss and his crew mates sailed to Singapore, deep inside Japanese-held territory, aboard a requisitioned Japanese sampan they called the Krait. Disguised as Malay fishermen they completed one of the most daring raids of the Second World War – a limpet mine attack on enemy shipping in Japanese-occupied Singapore harbour. The commandos sunk seven ships and the entire team returned to Australia alive. Moss was the last remaining member of Operation Jaywick. We published a profile on Moss in the Autumn 2020 edition of Vetaffairs.

CORRECTION Our story in the Winter edition of Vetaffairs about the signing of the Japanese surrender in Tokyo Bay omitted the names of two Australian ships present in the bay. They were the destroyers HMA Ships Bataan and Nepal.

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A new online program to connect young people The Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation is all about delivering services to young people who are experiencing mental illness in the family, especially families who served in the Australian Defence Force.

Their aim is to empower young people to build their resilience, build life-long knowledge and abilities and learn how to make positive choices for their emotional health and well-being to reach their full potential. Kookaburra Kids has introduced a new online delivery program to connect young people across Australia and provide them with access to valuable sessions to improve the way they manage their families’ mental health. By expanding their program beyond in-person camps and activity days, Kookaburra Kids Connect will give more young people across the country,

Transitioning can be a busy and challenging time for veterans and their families. There are many competing priorities to sort out – from planning a move, finding a new home, new schools and a new job. Your health can often be forgotten. 2020 has been an incredibly challenging year with every Australian feeling the pressures of adjusting to the ’new normal‘. Firstly with the impact of the bushfires earlier in the year and the ever-present and ongoing concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. These pressures are being felt across the nation and may present additional health challenges to veterans and their families.

and those in rural areas, the opportunity to increase their sense of connectedness and learn safe and positive helpseeking behaviours even during isolation or within restrictions that are still in place due to COVID-19. The sessions are run by Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation staff and volunteers and are designed to be hosted within a safe environment where young people can express themselves freely and with a supportive network present. This program aims to build resilience in young people and allow them to learn how to make positive choices for

their emotional health and wellbeing. While the Connect service continues to be offered to children, Kookaburra Kids recently recommenced face to face activity days in some states and territories in line with local public health advice. If you are an existing member of Kookaburra Kids, you can request to join directly by emailing connect@kookaburrakids.org.au or call 1300 566 525. If you would like to enrol a young person into Kookaburra Kids programs, visit kookaburrakids.org.au/refera-child or call 1300 566 525.

DVA understands these challenges and is committed to providing veterans with easier access to health care, particularly in times of crisis. All Australian Defence Force (ADF) members who transition on or after 1 July 2019, and served at least one day’s continuous full-time service, can now access a comprehensive fully-funded health assessment from their GP each year for the first five years following transition. The Veteran Health Check is specifically designed for veterans and can be accessed through your community or family GP. It can assist you and your GP to identify and support the onset of physical and mental health conditions that are common in the years following transition, and organise for early and targeted referrals. Your GP may also make referrals for additional tests, treatment or assessment by other health professionals, and can refer you to relevant DVA services or programs. You will need your DVA Health Card to access annual Veteran Health Checks. Make sure to check that your GP accepts

DVA Health Cards when making an appointment. To find out more, including how to apply for your DVA Health Card, please visit dva. gov.au/health-and-wellbeing. If you transitioned from the ADF prior to 1 July 2019, you will still be able to access a one-off comprehensive Veteran Health Check (also known as the one-off ADF post-discharge health assessment) from your GP at any time after you transition. A Medicare rebate is available for this. Looking after your health is important during times of transition, particularly during times of extraordinary hardship, such as those resulting from the bushfires. Talk to your GP, tell them you have served in the ADF and ask them about the Veteran Health Check. Watch our Youtube video to learn more about Veteran Health Checks. For more information on the Veteran Health Check, please visit: dva.gov.au/ veteranhealthcheck. More information can be found on www.dva.gov.au/ health-and-wellbeing.

New mental health hotline service A new Veteran Mental Health GP Assistance Hotline has been established as part of the Government’s $1.4 million investment in mental health services for the veteran community. The Hotline is available for GPs who are treating veterans. It is attended by health experts clinically trained in veteran mental health issues. The hotline provides health practitioners with free expert advice on the unique and complex mental health issues that veterans can face. GPs and health professionals working with complex mental health patients are now be able to access a panel of highly experienced veteran and military mental health specialists, strengthening the ability of professionals to provide support to veterans in need, particularly in rural and remote areas. The Hotline is available now by calling 1800 VET777 (1800 838 777). A General Advice Hotline is also available to any person in Australia who wants information and resources on veteran mental health and available treatments. It can also be accessed by calling 1800 VET777 or through the Phoenix Australia website which also provides links to best practice and professional development resources. The $1.4 million investment will also establish a Community of Practice (COP) for PTSD Trauma Recovery Program providers. The COP will create a network between PTSD service providers dedicated to the provision of evidence-informed mental health care for veterans.

Active Choices: a new physical activity program If you are based in Brisbane, you may be eligible to participate in a new 12-week physical activity program. DVA wants to help veterans and war widow/ers to age well, and one of the best ways is to stay active. We know it can be hard, so we have engaged the University of Queensland (UQ) to develop and trial a new program called Active Choices that aims to help DVA clients become more physically active and socially connected within their local community. The UQ team is currently offering Active Choices to DVA clients who are interested in getting help to manage their physical activity. The program may also benefit DVA clients seeking to reconnect with their local communities following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Given the continuing impact of COVID-19, the UQ team have put in place additional safety measures to mitigate any risks and ensure the research environment is safe for you.

To be eligible to participate, you must be a DVA Gold or White Card holder receiving treatment from an exercise physiologist or physiotherapist, and assessed as being able to safely participate in physical activity without supervision. Please note, participating in this trial will not change your treatment arrangements. Participation will be in addition to any clinically necessary treatment you are receiving. If you are ready to make an Active Choice, or would like more information about the Active Choices program, visit hmns.uq.edu.au/ active-choices-dva or contact the Senior Research Assistant, Dr Zoe Papinczak on z.papinczak@uq.edu.au or 07 3365 7453. By joining this research study, you’ll help yourself and your peers.

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Queensland War Widows are Zooming!

The social isolation and loneliness that have resulted from the COVID‑19 pandemic have led Australi-an War Widows Queensland (AWWQ) to ’think outside the box’ for a way to connect its members. Zoom video conferencing has become extremely popular for workplaces, friends

and families to stay connected and has certainly been embraced during these difficult times. Although AWWQ was keen to use this technology, the challenge was that many members had limited computer skills or experience. Many also lacked confidence, and thought

that Zoom was not within their capabilities. The AWWQ Zoom School proved them wrong. AWWQ members who had a computer, tablet or smart phone and an email address were invited to enrol at ‘Zoom School’. Individual lessons conducted via phone, which were tailored to the skill level and technology available to each member, proved a wonderful success. All students were successfully able to use Zoom. Lessons were conducted with patience, respect and encouragement. The number of lessons re-quired varied with each individual and was decided by them. Pictorial tutorials for computers, tab-lets and smart phones were also created to further assist members.

E S O tpifed.org.au

Australian Federation of Totally & Permanently Incapacitated Ex-Servicemen & Women For all DVA classified TPI/SR disabled Veterans and their families 0409 573 682 or 0417 291 546 federation@tpifed.org.au PO Box 450, Erindale ACT 2903 TPI Veterans’ Assoc of NSW Ltd Level 6, 131 Clarence Street, Sydney 2000 Ph: 02 9235 1466 Email: admin@tpinsw.org.au FB: facebook.com/TPINSW TPI Ex-Servicemen & Women Assoc of Victoria Inc 23–47 Villiers St, North Melbourne 3051 Ph: 03 9329 8844 Email: tpioffice@tpihqvic.org.au FB: facebook.com/TPIVictoriaInc Twitter: @tpivicinc TPI Association of South Australia TPI House, 171 Richmond Road, Richmond, SA 5033 Ph: 08 8351 8140 Email: office@tpi-sa.com.au Website: tpi-sa.com.au Queensland TPI Association Inc Cnr Enogerra Rd & Ashgrove Ave, Newmarket, QLD 4051 Ph: 07 3040 3330 Email: secretary@qldtpi.org.au Twitter: @qldtpi

facebook.com/tpifed twitter.com/tpifed tpifed.org.au TPI Association of WA Inc RAAF Association Estate, 2 Bull Creek Drive Bull Creek WA 6149 Ph: 08 9332 4999 Email: tpiwa@tpiwa.org.au Website: tpiwa.org.au TPI Association of Tasmania Inc The Horrie Gorringe Stand, North Hobart Football Oval, Argyle Street, North Hobart, Tas 7000 Ph: 03 6231 3900 Email: tpitas@bigpond.com FB: facebook.com/tpi.tasmania The ACT TPI Association Inc PO BOX 450, Erindale, ACT 2903 Ph: 0417 291 546 Email: secretary@acttpi.org FB: facebook.com/acttpi Twitter: @tpiact Website: acttpi.org

Disabled in our Service – United in our Cause

AWWQ is now using Zoom on a regular basis to connect members from all over Queensland. Subbranch committees have been able to share ideas and support each other. The ’Zoom Ladies’ after-noon tea connects members for a regular chat over a cuppa. Apart from helping with social isolation and enhancing communication, ‘Zoom School’ has instilled confidence in these women who have been able to have a go at this type of technology in a safe and supportive environment. Coming soon: Facebook School. Please contact Australian War Widows Queensland on 07 3846 7706 or email admin@warwidowsqld.org.au for further information.

Uni students do ‘tele-placements’ War Widows NSW is supporting Western Sydney University’s 2020 Counselling and Psychotherapy postgraduate students by offering them placements. While the seven students are delighted to have the opportunity for a workplace placement during COVID19, the partnership offers opportunities for both parties. For example, the students are learning about a sub-group of older people who challenge their assumptions about gender and ageing. The students tell us that they are privileged to hear tremendous stories that exemplify both the strength and courage of a War Widow. In a non COVID-19 situation, students would typically engage with a client face-to-face but now they have to contact their clients by phone. Among the new skills the students are learning is communication with older people. They are also hearing more about the context of becoming a War Widow.

N E W S Support our veterans’ families – Become a Legatee Legacy marked one of the most important events on its calendar – Legacy Week – from 30 August to 5 September. But this year, the normal commemorative events and fundraising activities by Legacy’s 45 clubs were put on hold because of the coronavirus pandemic. Instead, activities largely focused on the virtual – with clubs posting to social media, promoting online fundraising activities, and holding events with their community via Zoom. Legacy’s volunteers, Legatees, are the organisation’s backbone and provide localised support for military families doing it tough during times of isolation. RAAF Warrant Officer Scott Biddell is a serving Legatee who says he always wanted to volunteer, quickly realising that Legacy would be the right fit – and the perfect extension to his Australian Defence Force service. WOFF Biddell learned being a Legatee can involve a range of activities, from assisting with enrolment in Legacy and entitlement applications, organising fundraising initiatives, to helping with minor repairs to widows’ homes. Investing a little time into something meaningful and worthwhile is something that WOFF Biddell recommends for people who might be interested in volunteering for Legacy.

‘It requires compassion, understanding and a willingness to put service before self, and in whatever capacity, they make a worthy contribution to one of the longest-standing, most trusted and respected charities in the country,’ he said. Meeting likeminded people with interests in Defence and volunteering helped Group Captain David Glasson realise that Legacy was a great match. GPCAPT Glasson says often the smallest things can provide the best support. ‘A phone call or card on their birthday or at Christmas can mean so very much – sometimes these chats can bring up a welfare issue or area of concern that may require some more assistance,’ he said. To someone who might consider volunteering for Legacy, GPCAPT Glasson says it was one of the best things he has taken on. ‘It is really such a small amount of effort for a huge reward and a sense of accomplishment. Legacy is a very supporting organisation and it is accommodating to how much time you have to give.’ Despite COVID-19, clubs are still looking for volunteers who can provide assistance remotely and support those in their care. If you are interested in becoming a Legatee you can find out more at www.legacy.com.au/Legatees and fill out an application form or call 1800 LEGACY (1800 534 229).

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A hand up, not a hand-out Having served in the Australian Army for 27 years, Alan Sparks understands firsthand the experience of transitioning from military to civilian life. As the CEO of East Coast Apprenticeships, one of Queensland’s largest group training organisations, Mr Sparks feels a responsibility to help his fellow veterans navigate the road to securing permanent employment.

Alan Sparks, CEO of East Coast Apprenticeships

‘We’ve got people here who have served the nation, who in many cases have made significant sacrifices, and it behoves us not to give them a ‘hand-out’ but certainly a ‘hand up’ in that transition out of service life,’ he says. ‘Veterans have a richness of experience, skills and talents which add significantly to the human capital of this nation, and it would be silly on everyone’s part not to recognise that they have a continuing contribution to make.’

Under Mr Sparks’ leadership, East Coast Apprenticeships developed the Defence Trade Program, an initiative which saw the organisation win a 2020 Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Award for Excellence in Supporting Veteran Employment. Offering tailored training and support to give veterans the confidence and skills to enter the apprenticeship system, Mr Sparks meets every candidate, to establish trust, understand their

Veteran advocacy tough but rewarding Roger Greene OAM says acting as a veterans’ advocate – helping veterans and their families access services and assistance – can be difficult but very rewarding. Vietnam veteran, Mr Greene, of Greensborough, Victoria, has been a veterans’ advocate for more than 30 years, and helps train new advocates. Veterans’ advocates support veterans struggling with life and help them access DVA services. ‘We’re always looking for people who’ve got an interest in looking after veterans and becoming qualified,’ Mr Greene said. ‘Unfortunately, more and more veterans are having trouble with the physical and mental impacts of service.’ Mr Greene chairs the Capability Framework Management Group which sets training standards for advocates.

As a trainer he has noticed a ‘pleasing’ reduction in the age demographic of people training to be veterans’ advocates under the DVA-sponsored Advocacy Training and Development Program (ATDP). He said this showed veterans and their spouses from more recent conflicts were stepping up. The ATDP is accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority, the Vocational Educational and Training (VET) sector regulator, and reflects current VET practices. Participants are sponsored by an ex-service organisation (ESO) and work with a mentor following adult training principles – 70 per cent on-the-job, 20 per cent through mentoring and 10 per cent face-to-face. The partnering Registered Training Organisation, Major Training Services, manages the assessment and issue of certificates for the six competencybased units that comprise the Course in Military Advocacy – 10620NAT.

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circumstances, background, skills and experience, and develop an individual transition plan. ‘What we’ve created is a flexible approach, where an individual, with all the stresses that might be associated with their transitional period, can be accommodated,’ Mr Sparks says. ‘Many veterans will say to me, “Now I have a pathway to follow”, and I think that’s really important. Once they know where to go and they’ve made that decision, it gives them meaning and purpose, it gives them a respect for what’s ahead of them in their life.’ Tom Williams is one such veteran. Disabled as a result of an injury while serving in the Australian Army, Mr Williams describes himself as a ‘complex case.’ The flexibility of the program meant Mr Williams, the primary carer of his two children, could undertake training at his own pace, prioritising the daily school runs and after-school activities. ‘The timeframe was never an issue,’ Mr Williams says.

One training stream enables advocates to help serving and ex-serving military members to access health and welfare support. Another stream gives advocates skills to prepare rehabilitation and compensation claims for DVA’s assessment and review processes and beyond to the Veterans’ Review Board and the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. ‘Since the pandemic isolation measures came into effect, face-to-face training has been suspended so I’ve stepped back from training delivery and I’m working as an advocate,’ Mr Greene said. ‘It is particularly timely for people from the later conflicts to step up because I think they do have an obligation to help their mates who are not doing as well as they are.’ Repatriation Commissioner Don Spinks said the COVID-19 pandemic had raised some unique challenges but he was delighted that advocacy services were continuing as a vital element enabling DVA service delivery. ‘I know there has been some frustration among ATDP volunteers and the advocacy community in regards to the suspension of “face to face” training,’ Mr Spinks said. ‘I commend ADTP trainers and assessors who, in response to this

Don’t let yourself take steps backwards; always, as the Army says: ‘Keep moving forwards.’ ‘They said to me from the start, whether it takes me eight weeks or eight months – which I think we’re at now – we will get there. The flexibility and support from East Coast Apprenticeships has been phenomenal.’ After struggling to find purpose following his medical discharge, Mr Williams’s advice to veterans is to find a supportive, transitionfocused training program and dive in. If this story has raised any issues for you, please contact Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling, which provides support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families. Free and confidential help is available 24/7. Phone 1800 011 046 (international: +61 8 8241 4546) or visit www.OpenArms.gov.au.

change, developed online facilitated programs using Webex to deliver wellpatronised and -received Wellbeing and Compensation programs. ‘Without doubt the single most important factor in the extraordinary successes of the ATDP program and more broadly veterans advocacy, has been (and remains) the support and expertise provided by volunteers. ‘Further good news is that much of the Course In Military Advocacy is based upon either workplace learning or online training and trainee advocates have been very active taking non-classroom activities during lockdown ready to move to the next level of training.’ Mr Spinks said accredited advocates had also been active undertaking online continuing professional development as part of their ongoing learning. ‘Veterans helping other veterans is a great way to look at the ATDP and the need has never been greater for veterans who have left the ADF recently to get involved,’ Mr Spinks said. Anyone interested in helping their comrades should discuss the opportunity with their ESO.

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Deputy Secretary Vicki Rundle PSM Vicki Rundle joined DVA in June 2020 as the new Deputy Secretary – Veterans and Families Services. She oversees three divisions within the department, covering such responsibilities as DVA’s ongoing Transformation program, client benefits, such as compensation and income support, and a wide range of health and support services DVA provides to the veteran community. Ms Rundle began her career as a registered nurse, midwife, nurse educator and hospital administrator in the Tasmanian, Queensland and Western Australian governments. She was soon drawn to broader work in the health and human services sector, and held senior executive roles across hospital and ambulance services, disability, mental health and primary health care services. She spent four years leading the state-wide child protection and youth justice services program before transferring to the Australian Public Service over 14 years ago. Much of her work since has revolved around social policy and service delivery reform. At what is now the Department of Social Services, Ms Rundle

initially worked on national early childhood programs prior to transferring to a senior role in the Department of Education, Employment, and Workplace Relations. It was there that she undertook the national early childhood quality reforms. ‘We were lagging behind the OECD in terms of investment in early childhood, and the evidence that children do a whole lot better when they receive quality care at that stage in their lives is indisputable,’ she says. ‘This really set the country up for the future of our young children’. Ms Rundle says she found this work enormously worthwhile. She was awarded a Public Service Medal in 2013 for this work.

Ms Rundle with a photograph of her father who served in the Middle East in the Army during the Second World War.

In October 2015 Ms Rundle moved to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). ‘That was the biggest reform since Medicare and there was no roadmap,’ she says. ‘No one had ever done this before in the world. It was challenging – the reform mattered to many people, especially people with a disability. I had a great sense of why I was there – I really wanted to contribute to this major reform and help improve the lives of people living with a disability, and their families. ‘Because it had never been done before, we made mistakes. But we learned from that and I loved it. It has benefited people with a disability in a way they’ve never experienced before. There are around 390,000 people in the Scheme and counting.’ For the last six months of her nearly five years at the NDIA, she was acting Chief Executive Officer. Then the opportunity to work at DVA presented itself. ‘There are three things that matter to me when I’m considering a job,’ she says. ‘Firstly, the purpose of the work and what it does for the client group. Secondly, whether the department’s values and mine align. And thirdly, the quality of the leadership. DVA strongly ticked all three boxes. Firstly, the work really matters. We serve an important group of Australians who have made an enormous contribution to this country. The department has a great sense of purpose and mission, and it works really hard to achieve outcomes for veterans and their families. The Secretary’s a great leader and I thought that I could make a meaningful contribution.’ A priority for Ms Rundle is making sure that veterans get the services they need at the right time, the right way.

How do we organise ourselves and our services to make sure that the clients’ pathway is the smoothest experience it can be? ‘The key to doing this is staying client focused,’ she says. ‘By listening to the client group you can take a lot of guidance from the experience they’re having. It’s also important to develop a clear strategy that envisages what the future state looks like. And then work out how you get there with others. You should always work closely with stakeholders, and there are a range of important stakeholders for DVA. ‘I’m by nature very inquisitive. I will often ask questions such as ‘Why do we do this this way?’. It helps you understand the nature of the problems but I suspect it drives people mad! ‘It’s also important to engage and energise others, and use their expertise. It’s also crucial to determine what the issue is and work your way through it. I’m a problem-solver. I don’t mind how complex the problem is, there’s always a solution. There’s also always a way to simplify things. A minister I worked with once said, “many people’s lives are complex, so accessing government services should be as simple and easy as possible”.’ Among the things she’s keen to further simplify is DVA’s processes, as well as using client data better.

‘The profile of our clients and potential clients is changing. So, what does that mean and how should we do things differently? How do we organise ourselves to make their pathway into the department a smoother experience? What does that mean for our culture and the preparedness of our staff? ‘It’s important to have a strong wellbeing focus. DVA’s Veteran Centric Reform process has helped enormously’. ‘The department needs to comply with legislation and make decisions that are consistent with it. However, we must also be solutionsfocused and look for ways to achieve outcomes for veterans and their families. ‘Whenever I go to a job, I think about what legacy I want to leave. I have learned to appreciate that what you leave behind is important and can make a big difference. I want to make sure that when I eventually leave DVA, the system is even better than it is now, so that the experience is a good one and veterans and their families achieve the outcomes they are seeking. And that people are proud of the work they do in the department – in recognition of what veterans were prepared to do and have done for us.’

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F E A T U R E S Veteran Family Advocate Gwen Cherne Though Gwen Cherne is very friendly, chatting to the new Veteran Family Advocate about her career is an intimidating experience. Born in the US city of Cleveland, she completed a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in public administration and international development. She volunteered in medical anthropology in Ecuador before graduating from university and becoming a social worker in Chile. She did disaster relief work in Peru, established a middle school in Brooklyn, then in 2006 went to Afghanistan as an aid worker where she remained on and off for the next three years. ‘I wasn’t given a security detail the first two times I was there, so I was allowed to go from town to town in old Toyota pick-ups, sometimes with a driver, sometimes driving myself,’ she laughs. It was in Kabul in 2008 that she met Pete Cafe, formerly a soldier in the Australian Army, who was then doing contract security work. Their relationship blossomed, and in 2011 Ms Cherne moved to Australia to be with Pete who had re-enlisted in the Army in 2010. It was while he was deployed in Afghanistan as a Commando that the couple had the first of their two children. Meanwhile, Ms Cherne worked for the Australian Civil-Military Centre undertaking civil-military-police projects, program management and research. Tom, Pete’s son from a previous relationship, moved in with them and later joined the Army. He is now a member of his father’s original unit – 3rd Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment. In 2016, while on deployment in Iraq, Pete

If veteran families are supported we can better support veterans. It’s about seeing the bigger picture, and remembering that military trauma affects the whole community. easy to forget families when you’re so focused on veterans. But even though I’m a onewoman show, I have strong support within the Commissions and DVA.’ Ms Cherne is also a member of the Repatriation Commission and, soon, the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission as well being an ex-officio member of the Council for Women and Families United by Defence Service. Among her first priorities is supporting the families in the wake of the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force’s report on the conduct of Special Forces personnel in Afghanistan. She is also keen to support the National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention. From left: Gwen Cherne and Pete Cafe with their children Emily and Lachlan, and Pete’s son Tom at his March Out Parade at the Army Recruit Centre, Kapooka, NSW, in 2016.

suffered a stroke and was repatriated back to Australia. Tragically, nine months later, he died by suicide. ‘There are a couple of things for people to note,’ says Ms Cherne. ‘Not only am I a widow from suicide but I’m a mother of a current serving member. I took care of my husband in the nine months before he died, so I was also a carer. I’m not just a widow and I’m not just focused on suicide.’ Ms Cherne was until recently a board member of the Australian War Widow’s, NSW, appointed to the Council for Women and Families United by Defence Service, an Ambassador for the Commando Welfare Trust and Gotcha4Life, and in 2018 she was an Invictus Games Ambassador for ClubsNSW. Among the things she is now focused on is supporting families and giving them a voice. ‘If veteran families are supported we can better support

veterans. It’s about seeing the bigger picture, and remembering that military trauma affects the whole community.’ Ms Cherne began work on 24 August. Because the Advocate role is newly minted, she sees it as a great opportunity. ‘I was extremely happy when the creation of the position was announced and that it would be an integral part of how Government is addressing veterans’ issues. I applied because I felt that if I’m not part of the solution in a very direct way, then I can’t criticise the Government for what they are or aren’t doing. It comes down to this: I want to wake up every morning and help veterans and their families every single day. That’s what drives me. ‘Because I’m the first person in the position, I have the opportunity to grow it strategically so it impacts government over years. Part of the issue is making sure families are consistently in the forefront of people’s minds. It’s

Ms Cherne points out that the causes of suicide are complicated. ‘It often has to do with trauma on top of trauma. Pete had experienced childhood trauma, deployment trauma, mental health problems, then a stroke. When you

‘And they believe too, sadly, that we’ll be better off without them. It is not the case. My life is not better, my children’s lives are not better. His death has changed us forever. My children are twice as likely to die by suicide because their parent did. That’s something I think about every day. I make it clear to them that whenever I’m struggling, I seek help.’ Ms Cherne sees the way ADF personnel transition to civilian life as being key. ‘When I came home from Afghanistan, nothing compared to my time there. Everything seemed quite ordinary, even pointless. It takes a while to realise that painting rocks with your four-year-old is important. ‘Veterans are good at leadership. They need purpose, a sense of service and they need connection to the community. It’s been drilled into them that they are to serve and help people and that’s what they like to do. So it’s vital that we facilitate that.’ Gwen Cherne speaking at the Lifeline Canberra Women of Spirit Awards in 2018.

pile that much on someone, they hit a tipping point. Also, it’s often not the trauma so much as the life events – the breakdown of a marriage, the loss of a job that breaks them. Pete became violent, so I left and he became convinced I wasn’t coming back. For people struggling, these life events often are not manageable.

If this article has raised any concerns for you, please contact Open Arms — Veterans and Families Counselling, which provides support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families. Free and confidential help is available 24/7. Phone 1800 011 046 (international: +61 1800 011 046 or +61 8 8241 4546) or visit www. OpenArms.gov.au

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Defence Engagement Commissioner Stuart Smith Major General Stuart Smith AO DSC (Retd) has been appointed as the inaugural Defence Engagement Commissioner for an initial 12-month period.

Commissioner Smith rounds out a 100-year legacy of family members serving our nation, from South Africa to Afghanistan. His exposure to military service came early in life. His father Bernard Smith served two tours during the Vietnam War, and was tragically killed in action in 1969 when he was an infantry sergeant with the 5th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (RAR). Commissioner Smith followed in the family tradition, enlisting in 1981 with scholarship entry to the Royal Military College Duntroon. He was appointed Commanding Officer of 1RAR in 2003, and commanded the 3rd Brigade in Townsville from 2009 to 2011. The following year, he was promoted to Major General and appointed Commander Joint Task Force 633, responsible for ADF operations in the Middle East. On his return to home soil, Commissioner Smith assumed command of the Headquarters 1st Division/Deployable Joint Force Headquarters in Brisbane for three years and in 2015 was appointed Deputy Chief of Joint Operations until his retirement from the Australian Army in 2017.

During his military career, he participated in several humanitarian operations, including earthquake/tsunami assistance in Sumatra, Indonesia in the 2003/4 summer, and leading the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Disaster Response to Cyclone Yasi in North Queensland during February 2011. His last formal duty prior to his transition to civilian life was to read the story of his father’s service at The Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial on 18 August 2017. ‘So that closed the circle on five generations of service by our family,’ Commissioner Smith says. After leaving the ADF, he became an advisor to the Queensland Premier on community solutions to youth crime and from late 2018 until mid-2019 he was State Disaster Recovery Coordinator for the Central Queensland Bushfires and the North Queensland Monsoon Floods, where he led social, infrastructure, economic and environmental recovery activities across Queensland. In reflecting on his time in service, Commissioner Smith notes moments when service men and women demonstrated unique qualities of selflessness as stand-out memories. ‘I am forever grateful for being able to witness soldiers, sailors, airmen and women personifying values of excellence, respect and courage,’ he says. ‘I witnessed calm excellence in the manner in which our soldiers maintained the peace and trained border police in Timor in 2003. ‘I saw empathy and respect displayed by Defence men and women towards disasterstricken communities in Far North Queensland during response and recovery operations after Cyclone Yasi in 2011. They adapted ways to clear debris, open roads, evacuate the vulnerable, restore power and get vital supplies into the region. ‘And I was humbled by the persistent courage demonstrated by the people I commanded in the Middle East as they completed complex land, sea and air operations across the Gulf and Afghanistan.’ Commissioner Smith plans on drawing on these

inspirational moments in his new position. As the Defence Engagement Commissioner, he is responsible for engaging with the Department of Defence on behalf of the Repatriation Commission, with a focus on strategic planning and advising on what future generations of veterans will look like. He will inform DVA on the future direction of the ADF, ensuring our future veterans have the support they need, when and where they need it. ‘My primary objective is to understand the pathway that a veteran is on from enlistment, through training, operations and transition to another career,’ he says. ‘What are the touchpoints on that pathway for DVA, and how can we improve those touchpoints in terms of policies and procedures to ensure that the next generation of veterans are looked after in the best possible way? Success is a seamless transition.’ The Commissioner planned his own transition well in advance. He suggests serving members need to take a long-term view when considering their transition plan. He believes that the first step is to visualise what work and lifestyle you want for you and your family after your Defence service.

‘Once, you have that vision, you can plan early for the other aspects that will contribute to the wellbeing of you and your family, such as what education you might wish to undertake, housing, and health support. ‘I was fortunate in that I took early advantage of opportunities to prepare myself for transition such as accessing the Defence Home Owner Scheme, completing part-time tertiary study, and submitting my health records through the MyService portal. My goal now is to work with DVA and Defence to replicate a smooth pathway for all our emerging veterans.’

With Flood Recovery Officers in Townsville in 2019 while State Disaster Recovery Coordinator.

How can we … ensure that the next generation of veterans are looked after in the best possible way? Success is a seamless transition.

As a UN Truce Supervision Observer in Lebanon, 1993.

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Safeguard your home for summer With summer fast approaching, now is the right time to prepare an action plan, undertake some maintenance around your home and make sure your home building insurance, as well as any other insurance policies you may have, are up to date. To assist you in taking action before it’s too late, DSH Insurance has put together some practical tips to safeguard your family and your home. This will help maximise your chances of getting back to normal following a bushfire or extreme weather event. Ensure your family’s safety First, sit down and discuss your options as a family. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes so it’s important to discuss the most common types of disasters in your area and identify what you and your family will do in each case. For instance, if you live in an area prone to bushfires or storms, create an emergency action plan for the safety of your family and any pets. This might include identifying a meeting point in case family members are separated. Also check your emergency kit is fully stocked and stored in a place which is easy to access, and make sure all family members have emergency phone numbers stored in their mobile phones, are familiar with local emergency service

websites, and have downloaded ‘Fire or Storm Near me’ apps to monitor situations as they arise. To assist you, DSH Insurance has developed a Natural Disasters – Homeowners Information Pack, which includes a Household Evacuation kit, information on different types of natural disasters, and useful links for emergency situations. This material is available on the DSHI website (beta.dsh.gov.au). Protect your home A range of general maintenance tasks can be carried out to reduce the risk of potential damage from events like floods, cyclones or fires. These include: • testing smoke detectors, alarms and fire extinguishers • cutting back trees and shrubs • cleaning up leaves and twigs around the property • removing and storing flammable items (including wood piles) well away from your house • cleaning gutters and downpipes • checking you have hoses and that they are long enough to reach around your house • inspecting your roofs for missing, loose or damaged tiles and leaks, and • checking the condition of external walls and cladding and sealing any gaps. DSH Insurance offers competitive premiums on comprehensive home building insurance tailored specifically for Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and veterans who have even one day of service (including reservists and widow(er)s of those ADF members). Benefits include cover for flood and accidental damage, no excess (other than for earthquake damage and some accidental damage) and flexible payment options. This provides peace of mind for policyholders, including deployed ADF members and their families.

Dolls’ houses for needy children Vietnam veteran Ray Moore says he was never any good at woodwork at school in the 1960s, yet crafting dolls’ houses has given him fresh impetus in his 70s, particularly given the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, he was told when he was 14 he was wasting his time at school. So he left and, after a succession of jobs, worked as a butcher before enlisting in the Army at 25. ‘I joined up because I wanted a career, to get security for my wife and daughters,’ said Mr Moore, who is now 76 and lives in Wyoming on the NSW Central Coast. ‘They told me I wouldn’t be posted overseas, but when I’d finished recruit training and trade testing, the 1st Field Regiment needed a butcher,

so I found myself in Nui Dat with the Service Corps.’ Mr Moore received a serious back injury when a truck backed into him, and was given spinal fusion. The intensive painkiller treatment which followed left him addicted and led to his medical discharge. The addiction stayed with him from 1971 until 1990. He then went to Bible College and graduated with distinctions and credits. ‘While I didn’t go into the church coming out of Bible College, I did become a pensions advocate with the Woy Woy/Ettalong/Hardys Bay RSL,’ he said. ‘I never lost a case, and some of these veterans didn’t know they were entitled to a pension.’

He said a DVA-provided occupational therapist, who was helping him deal with a serious tremor, suggested he look for a hobby and gave him a book of ideas. He was instantly taken with the idea of making dolls’ houses and made his first using scraps of cardboard. These days his dolls’ houses come complete with miniature furniture. They are made from white board and painted balsa Mr Moore buys with his pension. Over four years, he estimates he’s made between 50 and 80. Many of them he’s given away to the Wyong Women’s Refuge. Mr Moore said he highly recommends woodwork to other veterans who might be at a loss for something to do, particularly while they’re in isolation.

Any repairs or renovations done in and around your home should only be performed by qualified tradespeople to ensure work is undertaken properly and, where applicable, to the required standards. Lack of maintenance and work undertaken by non-qualified tradespeople may not only contribute to more damage to your home but can also result in a reduced claim payout or even rejection of your claim. It’s essential to understand that each claim on a home building insurance policy is assessed on a case-by-case basis, and a claim may be refused if you have failed to take reasonable care to protect and maintain your home and property. Check your Insurance It’s easy to think you have insurance but most of us don’t undertake regular reviews. Check to make sure your home building insurance and any other insurances are up to date, whether you’re adequately covered, and whether you need to include any extra cover. It’s also important to read your policy documents and relevant product disclosure statements so you are aware of exactly what you are covered for. DSH Insurance insures anywhere in Australia and can provide access to other insurance products including contents, landlord and car insurance. These complementary insurance products are underwritten by QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited and no eligibility requirements apply. Find out more by visiting beta.dsh.gov.au or call 1300 552 662. Our 100-year legacy, strengthened by our core values of honesty, trust, care and commitment always safeguards your interests.

Veteran involved in USS Peary propeller find An Army veteran was one of three Darwin divers who found two large ship propellers thought to be from the USS Peary, sunk with the loss of around 90 US servicemen’s lives in a Japanese air raid on Darwin on 19 February 1942. The discovery in May this year of the three-metre diameter propellers in 15 metres of water outside the shipping channel is considered extremely significant. They were found by three Darwin Sub Aqua Club members: Grant Treloar, Roland Hugli and Army veteran Clive Bartsch. Historians say they are now rethinking the events surrounding the sinking of the Peary. For the full story, visit dva.gov.au/vetaffairs.

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Rookwood’s ‘Old Army’ Anglican Section refurbished

The refurbished ‘Old Army’ Anglican Section at Rookwood General Cemetery, Sydney

A historic military graveyard in Sydney has undergone a major refurbishment. Over the past year, the ‘Old Army’ Anglican Section of Rookwood General Cemetery has received new headstones and bronze plaques, horticultural and irrigation works, improved access, signage and seating. The work was undertaken as part of a longstanding partnership between the Office of Australian War Graves and Rookwood General Cemetery. The heritage-listed site, containing the graves of 112 personnel, was established in 1888, soon after Rookwood opened in 1867. It catered for a growing military presence in the Colony of New South Wales.

Mortuary trains would pull up at the cemetery, often followed by an elaborate military funeral, including a firing party and a bugler sounding The Last Post. With the advent of motor vehicles, the railway line was not used after 1948 and one of the stations was dismantled, taken to Ainslie in Canberra and rebuilt as All Saints’ Anglican Church. Mortuary Station, near Sydney’s Central Station, also remains a reminder of this era. The historic graveyard is laid out uniformly and conforms with the principles of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, where no individual is more important than, or treated differently to another, regardless of race, rank, religion or status. Collectively, the graves in the ‘Old Army’ Anglican One of the mortuary stations at Rookwood General Cemetery, Sydney (State Archives of NSW)

Section offer a unique insight into Australia’s military and social history. The stories of service and sacrifice range from the Sudan Expedition (1885) to the Vietnam War. In fact, ‘Old Army’ has one of the most significant concentrations of Australian soldiers from the Vietnam War, with 11 soldiers who died during the war and two veterans who died in Australia soon after they completed their tours of duty. One of these soldiers was Private John Campbell, 21, from Campsie in south-western Sydney. John Campbell was working for the Repatriation Department (now the Department of Veterans’ Affairs) in Sydney when he was conscripted and deployed to serve Australia. Private Campbell served with the 3rd Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment. He joined the Australian Army in July 1967 and died a year later in Biên Hòa Province, Vietnam. Brave Lads, 3RAR’s published history, described the fatal attack: ‘At approximately 10 am, Private John Campbell moved out of the company patrol base to relieve the 10 Platoon sentry and gather a claymore cord. A Viet Cong sniper with an automatic weapon fired, wounding Campbell. An evacuation helicopter was called in … Several Viet Cong engaged the section

Private John Campbell (d. 1968)

… [and] Private Campbell later died from his wounds.’ John’s next of kin, Janice Collins, remembered him as a kind and fun-loving kid who did well at school and loved music and football.

The graves offer a unique insight into Australia’s military and social history. ‘John was my uncle but he was just five years older than me, so we were more like cousins or siblings,’ Mrs Collins said. ‘We used to spend school holidays together in my hometown of Deniliquin, New South Wales. It was a very simple life in a country town; we knew everyone and they knew us. ‘We’d take off in the morning, on our bikes, return for lunch, and then be gone again until night-time – swimming down the river, playing in the sand-hills, digging tunnels, going to the movies and getting up to all

sorts of mischief. We loved John and he loved us. ‘My nan (his mum) adored him and she never got over his death. He was so young, he hadn’t even started a life. ‘For me, as a 16-year-old, I never quite understood her grief and I’d ask: ‘Why is Nanna always so sad?’. Also, in those days, we didn’t talk about our loss. You couldn’t go to school and mention ‘my uncle was killed in Vietnam’. There was no recognition, not even by teachers.’ Mrs Collins said the refurbishment of the ‘Old Army’ Anglican Section had helped heal some of her family’s grief. ‘We didn’t visit the gravesite very often. Deniliquin was a long way from Sydney in those days. Nan became very anti-war and the site was hard to get to, especially for a woman by herself. ‘This project has been an amazing journey. It’s quite emotional, seeing all the [refurbished] war graves. The recognition of these men and women is beautiful, very special. There are still a lot of [Vietnam War] mums alive and they will want to visit Rookwood. ‘I can’t believe how much it’s brought us back in tune with John and what he went through. John has never been forgotten in our family. We still love him and we’re very proud of him. We feel that, with this restoration, John has finally come home.’

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As a nation we unite for our fallen Each year, on 11 November at 11:00am, Australia pauses for a minute of remembrance. In silent solidarity, we remember all those who served and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. Originally known as Armistice Day, 11 November marked the day the guns fell silent on the Western Front, marking the end of the First World War. However, just 20 years later Australia was at war again, in the largest global conflict of the 20th Century – the Second World War. It was after the Second World War that 11 November became known as Remembrance Day in commemoration of those who were killed in both world wars, and now all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. This Remembrance Day, we invite you to wear a red poppy to show your support and ensure that the more than 102,000 Australian men

and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country over the last century will never be forgotten. While this is an uncertain time, Australians are encouraged to continue to mark this significant day, ensuring their commemorations comply with the latest health advice. There is a range of remarkable resources online, which you can use to plan a personal commemoration. One of these is our Anzac Portal: anzacportal.dva.gov.au. There you will find the free-to-download resources from the 2020 Remembrance Day mail-out. The resources are designed to help you commemorate in your own community, and teach the next generation about the importance of 11 November.

This year’s resources focus on the Second World War, and include the latest publication in our Century of Service series – Patriotism. If you are planning a local service, you might also like to explore the Event Planning page (go to anzacportal.dva. gov.au and click on ‘event planning’ at the bottom of the page). This includes a draft Order of Service, commemorative music, prayers and poems for free download, and suggestions for suitable speeches. You can adapt this material to suit your needs. Please observe any social distancing rules that apply in your State or Territory. On 11 November 2020, the Australian War Memorial will hold a nationally televised

Remembrance Day commemorative event. In light of the restrictions resulting from the pandemic, the format of the ceremony has been altered to ensure it complies with COVID-safe rules and will be attended by a limited number of invited guests. It will be broadcast live across Australia by the ABC and available later on ABC iview. As always, the service will include the laying of wreaths and a minute’s silence on the eleventh hour. More information about the 2020 Remembrance Day commemorative event will be forthcoming on the Australian War Memorial website at www.awm.gov.au. We understand that this can be an emotional time for veterans and their families, if you need additional support during this time, call Open Arms 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or visit OpenArms.gov.au to find more about services available.

Vietnam Veterans Day in northern Australia COVID-19 and Commemorative ceremonies were held in Townsville and Darwin to mark Vietnam Veterans Day.

TOWNSVILLE

DARWIN

By Michelle Higgins, DVA’s Client Service Manager – Townsville Vietnam veterans and their families came together at Riverway Townsville on 18 August to commemorate the fallen and acknowledge the service of the men and women who served in Vietnam. COVID restrictions meant that the service was changed from its usual format. However, that didn’t stop the service from being full of heart. Peter Hindle (Queensland President of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia) and his team co-ordinated a memorable service enhanced by the beautiful playing of the Last Post by Musician Helen Baker from the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) band. Thank you for your service. Lest We Forget.

By Bob Shewring, President, Veterans Australia NT This Vietnam Veterans Day was very different for us in the Northern Territory. Normally the service would be held at the Darwin Cenotaph but it was undergoing repairs. So we held the ceremony at Reg Hillier House, the headquarters of Veterans Australia NT, some 35 kilometres south of Darwin.

The Vietnam Veterans Day Ceremony in Townsville. Photo: Troy Rodgers.

Veterans Australia NT President Bob Shrewring speaks at the ceremony, with the Long Tan Cross replica to his right. Photo: Veterans Australia NT

As part of the ceremony, we dedicated a replica of the original Long Tan Cross to commemorate the 60,000 who fought and in particular those killed at the Battle of Long Tan, but more generally the 521 lives lost during the war and all those who suffered during and after. Read the full story on the DVA website (dva. gov.au and search for ‘Vietnam Veterans Day’).

War Graves

While travel restrictions due to COVID-19 have affected how we move around the country, the Office of Australian War Graves (OAWG) is not experiencing any significant delays with the installation of official commemorations for eligible veterans, whether that be in a civil cemetery, lawn cemetery, niche plaque, ashes placements or at one of our 10 Gardens of Remembrance across Australia. As visitors to cemeteries and Gardens of Remembrance have been complying with social distancing measures, and because the work of the OAWG is generally isolated by its nature, we are still able to maintain the 72 Commonwealth War Graves Commission War Cemeteries and War Plots to the highest standards. While coronavirus restrictions have impacted some of the traditional ways we commemorate our fallen service men and women, Australians have still found innovative ways to acknowledge service and sacrifice. Despite COVID-19 restrictions, we encourage all Australians to continue to pay their respects in a dignified and solemn manner, and at all times follow current health advice.

Monash personal papers now freely available via Trove General Sir John Monash is best known for his distinguished military career, particularly as a commander on the Western Front in the First World War. But his impact on Australia went far beyond his wartime deeds. An enormous collection of Monash’s personal papers, donated to the National Library of Australia in the 1980s, has just been digitised and released on Trove (trove. nla.gov.au). The National Library describes Monash as a ‘brilliant polymath, a prolific correspondent, a talented engineer, an avid collector, a meticulous record-keeper, an effective military strategist and a revered figure in Australian public life’, and that he was ‘introspective, passionate, cultured, meticulous and driven’. Monash’s vast collection contains a huge range of material from First World War telegrams, architectural blueprints, souvenirs from his travels and correspondence with his children. The papers are stored in nearly 300 boxes – about 60 shelfmetres. The collection was donated to the National Library by Monash’s grandchildren David and JCM Bennett and Elizabeth Durré. Digitisating a collection of this nature is a mammoth task, and it has taken the National Library over a year to bring the collection online. It is available by searching Trove or by exploring the Guide to the Papers of General Sir John Monash on Trove. Monash’s legacy not only lives on through these digital resources, but also in present-day France, with the Sir John Monash Centre, which is set on the grounds of the Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery. This year, the Centre has been recognised with a Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award.

26 — Vetaffairs November 2020

AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL

Do you know this veteran? The Australian War Memorial is asking for help to identify an Indigenous soldier whose photograph was found in South Australia. Indigenous Liaison Officer Michael Bell said the Indigenous soldier’s photograph was found in a trunk at the home of Dorothy Prisk (née Belton), at 26 The Minories, Port Adelaide. The trunk contained memorabilia from several members of Dorothy’s immediate family, including her brother, Henry James Belton (known as Harry), who served during the First World War in the 10th, 50th and 45th Battalions, and for a time as batman to Major Noel Loutit. The trunk contained a letter referring to a soldier named Will, who was described as being engaged in the Dardenelles and a large battle on 7 August, most likely the Battle of the Nek. The trunk also contained a photograph of a soldier who appears to be Indigenous, and is likely to have been a driver or mechanic in an Australian Light Horse unit. ‘We can’t tell who he is from the photograph,’ Mr Bell said. ‘But someone out there might know.’

The Purple Poppies Collection

ITEMS F OR SALE

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The purple poppy symbolises the service and sacrifice of animals in war. Designed by Ashdene for the Australian War Memorial, this beautiful homewares range features artwork by Australia’s leading botanical artist, Jenny Phillips. Visit the Online Shop to explore the complete Purple Poppies Collection. Go to awm.gov.au/shop and search for ‘purple poppies’.

A proud Ngunnawal/Gomeroi man, Mr Bell is attempting to discover the identities and stories of people who are believed to be among the several thousand Indigenous men and women who served in the Australian armed forces. ‘When the First World War broke out, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples had few rights, poor living conditions, and were not allowed to enlist in the war effort,’ Mr Bell said. ‘Despite this, many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people wanted to serve in defence of Australia, and were willing to change their names, birth locations, heritage and nationality in an effort to do so. ‘They served on equal terms and were paid the same rate as non-Indigenous soldiers, but when they returned home, they found that discrimination had worsened. ‘Because no-one saw them, perception of their service was skewed, and for a long time it appeared as if they had never existed. ‘We’re trying to encourage people to come forward and tell their stories to help us tell the broader story of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experience. ‘It is a story that is little known, and deserves to be more widely known.’

ORDER FORM (please print clearly) PRICE

The Purple Poppies Collection Mug Teacup and saucer set Tea set: teapot with 2 x teacups and saucers Travel mug Coasters – set of 4 Placemats – set of 4 Tea towel

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$16.99 $29.99 $99.99 $24.99 $14.99 $29.99 $14.99

*Postage & handling (per delivery address) 1–3 items $10.00 ; 4–9 items $15.00 ; 10 or more items $20.00

*Postage and handling $

Total amount $ Visa

Mastercard

Cheque/money order

(made payable to the Australian War Memorial)

CARDHOLDER NAME CARD NUMBER

EXPIRY DATE

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FULL NAME DELIVERY ADDRESS SUBURB/TOWN

STATE

POSTCODE

DAYTIME CONTACT NUMBER

To order, simply complete the order form and post your cheque/money order or credit card details to (please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery): eSales Unit, Australian War Memorial, GPO Box 345, Canberra ACT 2601. Phone (02) 6243 4555 (select option 2). Or shop online at www.awm.gov.au/shop.

27 — Vetaffairs November 2020

N O T I C E B O A R D M E D A L S – LO S T & FO U N D LO S T

NX53198, L/Cpl Walter Mervyn Dorman, 2/21 Field Eng. Company Seeking the medals of my uncle who died as a POW in Japan in 1945. Contact: Lindsay Dorman lindsaydorman06@gmail.com

K A Patterson WWII War Medal 1939–45, No 121407 Leading Aircraftman. Campaign and Australian Service Medal lost on Anzac Day 2005 between Foster Street and Rose Avenue, North Geelong. Contact: Coral Patterson 03 5242 8207 coralcos@live.com.au

Pte William George HALE NX45213 I am desperately searching for the medals of my grandfather who was a member of 2/20th Battalion and died as a POW in Naoetsu, Japan. His medals were sold at a garage sale in the Melbourne area during the 1970s. Contact: Deb Crick 0428 528 682 dcrick7150@gmail.com

Pte Leslie William King WWI medals, including Australia Military Medal, awarded to Pte King 175 were stolen by unknown persons. Information that could lead to the recovery of medals would be greatly appreciated. Contact: Russell King 0425 804 319 Akingsview@optusnet.com.au

Original Vietnam medals Because of circumstances, I sold my two original Vietnam medals while working for Telecom in the Redcliffe/Kallangur area. If possible I would like to get them back. Contact: Rod Spragg 0409 041 344 rodspragg@gmail.com

FO U N D Mr S R Cavill Recently, in Townsville, I was handed a set of Australian Defence Medals (full, miniature and ribbon in case) that had been originally sent in December 2008 to Mr Cavill who lived at 7/9 Royal Street, Wulguru 4811. Contact: Vince Crowley 07 4779 9460

Corporal Gordon Lawrence Sinclair Handed to Five Dock RSL Club, medals belonging to Gordon Sinclair, NX124767 Contact: David Clarke 0415 223 027 secretary@fivedockrsl.org.au www.fivedockrsl.org.au

Jesse Curl Mackey WWI medal for Jesse Contact: Peter Loneragan 0411 889 599

3791157 Hemburrow K D Vietnam medal Contact: Des Callaghan 0488 132 233 dcallaghan@rslvic.com.au

VX 95885 WILMORE J.R & VF 502663 K.L EAMES Have been handed a pair of 1939–45 Australian Defence Medals. Hoping to find relatives to pass on to. Also have other items to pass on that may be linked. Contact: Denise Stanbridge 0407 820 204 neise63@bigpond.net.au

Medals of George Arthur Collongwood NX23081 WWII medals and dog tags. Contact: John 0429 374 033

REUNIONS

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Please note that the following reunions may be affected due to the coronavirus pandemic. Please contact organisers for more information. RAN Moran Division intake November 1970 13 November 2020, Victoria Seeking those who joined the RAN in November 1970 to celebrate 50 years of a life-changing journey. Contact: Ian Kellett (Rip) 0437 745 214 ian.kellett@bigpond.com

106 Field Workshop RAEME 16 November 2020, Function Room Steeples Mornington, VIC Theme is soldier/tradesman. Contact: Milton Pearson 0488 050 261 csm1066869@gmail.com

36th Intake Army Apprentices 40th Reunion 14–17 January 2021, Brooklands of Mornington, VIC The reunion for non-graduates and graduates will go ahead, COVID-19 permitting. Please contact Dean for details if you are not on the Class Facebook page. Contact: Dean Joyce 0409 426 423 36thclassaas@gmail.com wraacwa.org.au

RAAF – #25 Engineering Apprentice ‘Horses’ 50th Year Reunion 5–7 March 2021, Caloundra, QLD All ex-apprentices of 25 Intake interested in attending, please contact Greg. Contact: Greg Searle 0481 336 649 gpsearle@aapt.net.au

HMAS Hobart 19–21 March 2021, Frankston, VIC To commemorate 50 years since HMAS Hobart returned from her third and final deployment to Vietnam. The reunion is open to all HMAS Hobart sailors past and present. For more info, please contact Jackie or Greg Sheppard 0412 200 315, sales@pnffigurines. com.au or Allan (below). Contact: Allan Etherington 0402 945 634 theghostof39@yahoo.com.au

RAN Health Services 26 March 2021, Canberra Rex Hotel, ACT The reunion is for all currently serving or ex-medical or dental personnel. Contact: Peter Schilling 0402 648 333 peter62534@iinet.net.au

Defence Platoon 40-Year Reunion 25 April 2021, Ballina RSL, NSW

Open to all members and exmembers of Defence Platoon HQCOY 3 Task Force. Contact: Ray Weiland (Wingnut) 0409 274 172 rjnvmweiland@hotmail.com

Naval Stores Branch 14–16 May 2021, Sunshine Coast, QLD Contact: Alan Cady-Ellis (Cady) or Robyn Flack 0407 436 498 or 0447 071 908 temporaryloan@gmail.com

C Squadron 1st Armoured Regiment (1971) Commemoration 7 June 2021, Canberra, ACT A National Commemoration of Operation Overlord is to be conducted (similar to the Binh Ba Commemoration https:// iview.abc.net.au/show/battle-ofbinh-ba-50th-anniversary). We are thinking about organising a ‘C Sqn 1971 reunion, please contact Bruce if interested. Contact: Bruce Cameron 02 6248 9562 cameronshome@bigpond.com

3rd Battalion RAR Commemoration for the Battle Long Khanh 7 June 2021, Vietnam Forces National Memorial Canberra, ACT Members and their families and friends invited to participate. Commemoration will include 9 Sqn RAAF, 12th Fd Regt (RAA), C Sqn 1st Armd Regt, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt and 1 & 2 Fd Sqn (RAE) & D & E Platoon ATF and others. Please contact your Battalion/Association representative, or Tony. Contact: Tony Cox 0412 377 884 tony.cox@3rar.com.au www.3rar.com.au

104 Sig Sqn National Reunion 2021 20–22 July 2021. Twin Towns Service Club, Gold Coast, QLD 55th anniversary reunion for all ex-members and families of 104 Sig Sqn, SVN and later. Other RASigs most welcome. Meet and Greet, Dinner, Memorial Service and Farewell Lunch. See Website and Facebook – 104 Sig Sqn National Reunion 2021 Reunion details Contact: Denis Hare 0419 334 535 reunion@au104.org 2021.au104.org

The 16th Minesweeping Squadron 30 July – 1 August 2021, Twin Towns Services Club, Tweed Heads, QLD

Marks the 55th anniversary of the conclusion of ‘Confrontation’ between Indonesia and Malaysia. Crew members from the six Australian minesweepers involved in the conflict interested in a reunion are requested to make contact. Contact: John King 0419 688 391 jsking44@icloud.com

21 Engineer Support Troop rescheduled reunion 30 August – 3 September 2021, Forster Tuncurry, NSW All those who served in 21 EST and those from other units who worked with the troop are welcome to attend along with their partners. Widows of 21 EST veterans especially welcome. Please visit the website for further information or contact the below. Contact: Phil Hincks or Ian McLean 0414 761 032 or 0422 431 297 phil.hincks@gmail.com or jaim@homemail.com.au www.21est.org

Commemoration Operation Ivanhoe 1971 21 September 2021, Australian War Memorial, ACT Members of supporting arms and services, who were involved with 4RAR/NZ (Anzac) Italian on both tours of South Vietnam or with 4RAR on earlier or later operational service are cordially invited to attend the reunion. Contact: Noel Fairley 0431 945 954 nfairley1944@gmail.com

EOI Darings and FESR Ships reunion 2021 12 October 2021, North Coast, NSW Dates, costs (maybe around $200) and venues to be declared depending on numbers. Sponsored by Duchess, Vendetta and Vampire Assn’s. Voyager pending. Contact: Bruce (Bowie) Bowmaker 0403 243 795 d154shipsoffice@gmail.com

Headquarters & headquarter company 1st Australian Logistic Support group 8–13 November 2021, Albury, NSW Meet and Greet on the 8th and main dinner on the 12th. For accommodation and reunion details contact Tony. Contact: Tony Brown 0428 852 736 tony11raye13@bigpond.com

28 — Vetaffairs November 2020

N O T I C E B O A R D N AV Y Naval Association of Australia (NAA) – Victorian Section The NAA is seeking expressions of interest from former Navy personnel of Commonwealth Forces and Australia’s allies, former serving Australian Army and RAAF personnel who have been posted to HMA Ships and Establishments and current serving RAN personnel, across Victoria, to join the NAA Victorian Sub-sections. Contact: Graham Thomas 0431 709 105 secretary.egnaa@gmail.com www.navalassoc.org.au

Borneo HMAS Vendetta Seeking information about the following who were detached to 1st Scots Guards November 1965 at Tawau, Sabah, North Borneo. Company Base 26 Serudong Ulu – R37865 ME Ayers; R57867 LSUC Higgins; R55632 LME Johnson; R51121 EA1P Wullf: Company Base 27 Serudong Laut – O1779 LT Graig, Ord QMG Stubbs-Mills and self. Tawau Assault Group; R55901 RO Bawden and R55546 LRO Nichols. Contact: Graeme Hanisch, (ex CPO RP) R56947 0408 569 331 hansafe@westnet.com.au

Seeking family of Lionel (Joe) Farquhar I served with Joe at HMAS Creswell in 1957/58. Joe was a chief petty officer. He has a son and a daughter, Elaine, and she worked in admin at Creswell. At the time they lived in Chatswood NSW. Contact: Colin Bax 0419 754 998

Seeking old shipmates – HMAS Vendetta John Valentine, Ernie Hunting, Adrian Wapper, Graeme ‘Baron’ Schultz, Hans ‘Patches’ Padjoric, Brian Sheridan, John James, Rodney Croxford, Rodney ‘Polly’ Perkins (LSQMG) and Steve Town (LSWM) ex HMAS Vendetta 1973–76. Polly was also at HMAS Coonawarra. Contact: Phillip Smith 0438 542 892 phillipsmith2020@hotmail.com

Seeking LEM ‘Chesty’ John Bond From 1960 HMAS Melbourne. I have a photo of him standing in front of the Rolls Royce sent by the High Commissioner of UK for a tour and dining experience in 1960 while visiting then Bombay. Contact: Trevor Percival trevor.p14 @bigpond.com

Seeking Graham Maloney Originally from South Australia. Paid off 1962 HMAS Yarra. Contact: Peter Head 08 9256 3237 nanabarb42@gmail.com

Seeking Bob Scott Russ Ward, ex petty officer, HMAS Perth, Vietnam, wanting contact from Bob Scott, ex petty officer, RAN, who transferred to the RAAF. Contact: Russ Ward 07 5598 2109

Seeking new members for the Fleet Air Arm Association We are an ex-service organisation formed in 1977 with divisions Australia wide. Our charter is to provide a meeting place for all past and current members of the RAN Fleet Air Arm and Associated Navies. We meet at Rosie O’Gradys Hotel in Northbridge, WA on the second Sunday of the second month starting in February. Contact: Keith Taylor, Secretary 0409 913 252 ktt59345@bigpond.net.au faaaa.asn.au

ARMY 5 Company RAASC Workshop Seeking Conley P W, Hayat I M, Chapman D D and Poulton C S. Friends of mine from 5 Company RAASC Workshop. Wanting to ask ‘How are you?’ and maybe join them for a drink. Also any other person of the ‘workshop’ and from 1AOD who knows me and would like to make contact. Contact: Harry Trikeriotis 0408 066 604 or 02 8739 6756 harryt1949@gmail.com

Respect their service too I have been lobbying since 1996 to gain full recognition for some 3,000 Vietnam Veterans (National Servicemen) from all over Australia who lawfully served their country during the Vietnam War for less than 181 days. Senator Eric Abetz has kindly acknowledged our quest and has offered to receive submissions so that he can adequately prepare a case to be considered by the responsible minister. Please submit your story about how this non recognition of a medallic award has affected your life in any way. Contact: Richard Barry OAM 02 6792 3114 PO Box 43, Narrabri NSW 2390. richyvon47@hotmail.com

A book about the Vietnam War for young adult readers In 2016, Allen & Unwin publishers produced Dreaming the Enemy, written by David Metzenthen. There are few books written for young adult readers about the Vietnam War – this book fills that gap perfectly. Highly recommended. Adult readers might also find it a great read. Contact: Peter Williams 0424 287 299 peterwwilliams@yahoo.com.au

Information on 148 General Transport company Seeking information on this company from WWII as my grandad, Ralph Goodfellow, served and I

can’t find any information about their role. Contact: Kevin Thompson thompsoncrew2011@hotmail.com

1st Transport Squadron Seeking service personnel who served in the 1st Transport Squadron, Holsworthy Sydney, 1978–81 inclusive. Contact: William Seddon (SGT) 0428 677 706 seddondixon@gmail.com

Seeking apprentices of the 36th Intake, Army Apprentice School Seeking members. If not part of the Facebook page, please make contact via the email address below. Contact: Dean Joyce 0409 426 423 36thclassaas@gmail.com

Seeking Ian (Tug) Wilson Ian was with Engineers at Broadmeadows base in 1962. Both Ian and Wendy where best man and maid of honour at our wedding on 3/2/1962. We lost contact when they were posted to WA. Contact: Alwyn Boyle 0417 157 338 jlboyle@bigpond.com

Darwin Overland Mobile Force (DOMF) Seeking anyone who served with or remembers DOMF, or am I the only one left? I turned 100 in June 2020. Please contact me. In hope. Contact: John Russell 6 Cliffdale Avenue, Deception Bay QLD 4508

Contact: Brian Rankin 0417 707 653 bra88425@bigpond.net.au

Seeking any members of No 2 PTI (Specialist) Course, RAAF 1956.F RF Also Brian Cook who was at RAAF Frognall Rathmines in 1956. Contact: John Telfer 07 4661 4007 jtelfer2@bigpond.com

Seeking contact with RAAF Apprentices of #25 Intake Engineering (Horses) Course

Seeking contact with former members in order to update our data base. Contact: Tony Brown 0428 852 736 tony11raye13@bigpond.com

Seeking contact with the following ex-apprentices who’ve lost contact with our group – Rob Ellett, Engfitt; Phil KinSeeking group photo of nane, Elecfitt, Navigator; Rick Corporal Daniel Murphy who served in the Boar War Salt, Affitt, WOE; Dave Lyndon, Elecfitt; Kel Prideaux, Instfitt; My grandfather Daniel served in South Africa in Jamieson Raid and Tome Foerster, Affitt; Gary Gill, later in the Matabele War, and with Engfitt; Mick Hill, Affitt, Flt Eng; Mick Fraser, Elecfitt; Brian Healey, the Imperial Yeomanry Scouts. Mtfitt; Graham Jarrick, Instfitt; His service number was 495. Any Peter Macarthur King, Armfitt; relevant group photos would be Albert Winter, Instfitt; Keith Robgreatly appreciated. ertson, Elecfitt. Contact: Ken Murphy Contact: Greg Searle 0428 690 750 0481 336 649 gpsearle@aapt.net.au A I R FO RC E

Buninyong Vietnam Veterans

Corporal George Thomas Penwarn

Seeking contact with the following Buninyong Vietnam Veterans – CPL RG Cartledge, Sig D A Lyons, Sig P R Shearer, Spr I W Stanbury, LCpl A R Trigg, Pte J L Isaac, LCpl P M Cartledge, re RSL Anniversary. Contact: William Akell CSM 03 5338 2309 yank1200@bigpond.com

Seeking information on my cousin ‘young Tommy’, DOB 13/4/1934, service no. A14067. Served from 10/11/1965 to 1/6/1966 with RAAF Transport Flight Vietnam and from 1/6/1966 to 7/11/1966 with No. 35 Squadron. Contact: Lesley Nash (nee Penwarn) 0432 575 511 lesley_j17@hotmail.com

HQ & HQ coy 1st Australian Logistic Support Group (ex-Vietnam)

Seeking members of PDP8 Det 1 Div Int Vietnam 1971 I’m researching the Intelligence Corps PDP8 trial computer in Vietnam in 1971. Seeking contact with Cpl Geoff Purdue, Cpl Graham Couper and Capt Colin Dobie. Contact: Lindsay Cooper 03 9592 5259 killara23@optusnet.com.au

We Flew Old Fred – Lancaster PO-F DV372, by Arnold Easton

Seeking Chris Jolly – Catering Corps

Seeking Gregory Blaxland

WO2 Jolly served as WO Caterer at DSG Puckapunyal in the late 1980s. Believed to have retired to Townsville? Would like to make contact. Contact: Mark Stevenson mark.s@bigpond.net.au

Seeking family of VX28612 Cpl Leslie Leonard Coustley He served with the 1st Aust Corps Provost Coy. He enlisted in Mildura and served in the Australian Army from 31-5-1940 till around 17 Jan 1946. His wife at the time lived in St Kilda. Other relatives may be Athol, Ethel, Glynis, Alan and Paul. I have photos of the family and his medals and I would like to return them. Contact: Kelvin Knights 0431 947 720 knightskk@gmail.com

Seeking this book for a family member in England whose uncle was killed in WWII. Contact: Sue Archbold suejim48@bigpond.com Greg was a Woff motor transport fitter. He retired about 1990. Last seen in Ipswich at a reunion. Contact: Brian McInerney 0412 229 077 maccabp@gmail.com

RAAF officers uniform I require a RAAF officer’s dress uniform and cap (Flt Lieutenant). I am size 3XL. I will accept a used uniform (needed for parades).

Where’s Richard? I’m trying to track down a Richard Fullerton or a Richard Ferguson (unsure on spelling) who was in Sale, Victoria early 1987. I assume he was in the RAAF but can’t be certain. Contact: Tom 0429 651 260 tmac86@live.com

MISCELLANEOUS Sad Joys on Deployment by Greg Bruce A book of reminiscences written by an orthopaedic surgeon about his ten deployments with the Australian Defence Force. Available from most bookselling websites. Contact: Gregor Bruce 0407 403 474 GKB1904@outlook.com

80th Anniversary Battle of Crete Anyone interested in attending the 80th anniversary commemorations for the Battle of Greece and Crete in May 2021 in Crete, please contact Tony on the details below. Contact: Tony Tsourdalakis 0419 856 736 president@cretan.com.au www.cretan.com.au

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dva.gov.au/vetaffairs/noticeboard

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