Weekly News 2026

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 3 May 2026

G’day.  Have a look in the attachment and you will find the pics of those that forwarded theirs of ANZAC Day 2026.

We will recognize the anniversary of the collision between MELBOURNE and Frank E Evans in 1969.  This year I have advertised on the MELBOURNE and the Ex members of the RAN and friends FB accounts to have a similar function commencing at 1100 at the GI gates (close to ‘Harry’s’).  There were some of our group, including me, who served in MELBOURNE in June 1969.  Starters so far:  John Hatchman, Shep, Ted Breukel, Jingles Irwin, Tom Houldsworth, Jessie James and Ross Muller is a possible.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have only 4 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Charlie, Ian, Wally, Mick and me.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Charlie Russell BR 3^rd from left

Wally Jankiwskyj BR far right

Mick Pollock in Kaiber Division Centre Row 3^rd from left

Ron Giveen at GI Gates – 3 June 2025

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects an ad for 3 June 2026 for MELBOURNE – EVANS collision commemoration ceremony.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Jingles Irwin, Ray Sandford, Davo, Annie Oakley, Disco Duck and Noel Markham.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 26 April 2026

G’day.  Does anybody have any pics of their ANZAC Day participation they would like to share?  I would be happy to publish them.

Russ Dale caught up with Pete Johnston from the 7^th intake yesterday ANZAC Day.  I know a lot of you remember him.  If you want to catch up with him, let me know I can forward his email address.

Schubes, who is a past winner of the EXJR of the Year being presented with his pin recognizing his achievement from another EXJR of the Year John Hatchman.

Kev Uttley and Peewee Petherick caught up recently for Kev’s birthday, a little bit of ice cream enjoyed by both :

Have you put 3 June in your diary yet?  I am currently reading the second book written by Jo Stevenson ‘In the Wake’.  I recall when we were in Singapore having the temporary bow put in place there was news that the Australian case was not being presented. 

We will recognize the anniversary of the collision between MELBOURNE and Frank E Evans in 1969.  This year I have advertised on the MELBOURNE and the Ex members of the RAN and friends FB accounts to have a similar function commencing at 1100 at the GI gates (close to ‘Harry’s’).  There were some of our group, including me, who served in MELBOURNE in June 1969.  Starters so far:  John Hatchman, Shep, Ted Breukel, Jingles Irwin, Tom Houldsworth, Jessie James and Ross Muller is a possible.

Gil forwarded this email on the ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’

:

Hi Ron , well I filled out the Medicial book. Last Thursday I had to go to the hospital and I took it with me. They said it was great. Saved a lot of time and all the info required was on hand. Thanks.

Gil Larsson
gil.larsson@gmail.com
0429617545

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have only 10 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Barry, John, Wally, Bob and Darkie.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Wally, middle row 3^rd from left

Darkie and Shirley, October 2025 in Fremantle

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects a pic of Shep and me in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Noel Markham, Gordon Stringer and Jaffa.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 19 April 2026

G’day.  ANZAC Day this coming Saturday.  I will be at Dee Why for the dawn service, then conducting a service at Mona Vale at 1100.  I am sure we all will be commemorating the day in your own way.

Mons Cup on Wednesday saw HMAS CHOULES win the cup for the first time in its history.  A good day out.

Have you put 3 June in your diary yet?  I am currently re-reading the book written by Jo Stevenson ‘No Case to Answer’.  I will also be reading the USN version of events prior to 3 June.  I recall when we were in Singapore having the temporary bow put in place there was news that the Australian case was not being presented.  If you can believe Jo Stevenson Admiral King USN should not have ended up an Admiral. 

We will recognize the anniversary of the collision between MELBOURNE and Frank E Evans in 1969.  This year I have advertised on the MELBOURNE and the Ex members of the RAN and friends FB accounts to have a similar function commencing at 1100 at the GI gates (close to ‘Harry’s’).  There were some of our group, including me, who served in MELBOURNE in June 1969.  Starters so far:  John Hatchman, Shep, Ted Breukel, Jingles Irwin, Tom Houldsworth, Jessie James and Ross Muller is a possible.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have only 11 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Dave Clifford would like to advertise his phone number for all who remember him and would like to make contact.  He does not have an email address.  He lives in the Proserpine area.  0412 164 624

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 19 April 2026

G’day.  ANZAC Day this coming Saturday.  I will be at Dee Why for the dawn service, then conducting a service at Mona Vale at 1100.  I am sure we all will be commemorating the day in your own way.

Mons Cup on Wednesday saw HMAS CHOULES win the cup for the first time in its history.  A good day out.

Have you put 3 June in your diary yet?  I am currently re-reading the book written by Jo Stevenson ‘No Case to Answer’.  I will also be reading the USN version of events prior to 3 June.  I recall when we were in Singapore having the temporary bow put in place there was news that the Australian case was not being presented.  If you can believe Jo Stevenson Admiral King USN should not have ended up an Admiral. 

We will recognize the anniversary of the collision between MELBOURNE and Frank E Evans in 1969.  This year I have advertised on the MELBOURNE and the Ex members of the RAN and friends FB accounts to have a similar function commencing at 1100 at the GI gates (close to ‘Harry’s’).  There were some of our group, including me, who served in MELBOURNE in June 1969.  Starters so far:  John Hatchman, Shep, Ted Breukel, Jingles Irwin, Tom Houldsworth, Jessie James and Ross Muller is a possible.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have only 11 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Dave Clifford would like to advertise his phone number for all who remember him and would like to make contact.  He does not have an email address.  He lives in the Proserpine area.  0412 164 624

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 12 April 2026

G’day.  For those who can remember, Navy Rugby players compete for the Mons Cup this Wednesday at Randwick Army Barracks.  I will be there.

Terry Dack will be undergoing surgery in mid-May.  All the best of luck mate.

Surfie Richards forwarded this email:

These are the originals from my father in law, he was in the RN.

Have never been on an Anzac Day March, so I thought might take them to our local RSL march, not into Melbourne march.

He was a leading gunnery rate. He did see a lot of action, but a very quiet man.

Thought as these are a little different would let you have a look.

Well the four on the bottom starting left to right.

Maltese George Cross 50th Anniversary medal

Battle of Malta Medal

Next, Russian

Medal of Uskarov

Soviet Convey Medal

British Medals

39-45 Star, 39-45 Medal

Atlantic Star,

Arctic Star

Africa Star

Pacific Star

Defence Medal

He saw a lot of action, his ship was kamikazied he was also involved in the sinking of Bismarck.

The place he dreaded going the most to was London during the blitz on leave.

As mentioned a very quiet man, didn’t say a lot a lot but did say the Russian conveys, at that time on destroyers was an ordeal.

Have you put 3 June in your diary yet?  We will recognize the anniversary of the collision between MELBOURNE and Frank E Evans in 1969.  This year I have advertised on the MELBOURNE and the Ex members of the RAN and friends FB accounts to have a similar function commencing at 1100 at the GI gates (close to ‘Harry’s’).  There were some of our group, including me, who served in MELBOURNE in June 1969.  Starters so far:  John Hatchman, Shep, Ted Breukel, Jingles Irwin, Tom Houldsworth, Jessie James and Ross Muller is a possible.

Thanks to Garry McGrath for contacting Allan Kay. 

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have only 11 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Kev and Gordon.  Hope you both enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Kev enjoying a drink with Tom, Hatch and me

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects a pic of Shep and me in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Rod Hazell.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 5 April  2026

G’day.  Happy Easter.  If you want a good laugh on a life ‘well lived’ read the first obituary in today’s attachment.

Have you put 3 June in your diary yet?  We will recognize the anniversary of the collision between MELBOURNE and Frank E Evans in 1969.  This year I have advertised on the MELBOURNE and the Ex members of the RAN and friends FB accounts to have a similar function commencing at 1100 at the GI gates (close to ‘Harry’s’).  There were some of our group, including me, who served in MELBOURNE in June 1969.  Starters so far:  John Hatchman, Shep, Ted Breukel, Jingles Irwin, Tom Houldsworth and Ross Muller is a possible.  Seven plus a possible.

Has anybody been in contact with Allan Kay.  If you have could you please let me know.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have only 11 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Jim, Trevor, Bob, Dave and Steve.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Jim, on the right 

Bob, Back row 5^th from left

Dave, middle row,4^th from right

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects a pic of Shep and me in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Fred Howes, Tom Houldsworth, Bruce Eddes and Steve Power.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 29 March 2026

G’day.  Thanks to Shep and Peter Craker for offering their copy of ‘Breaking Ranks’.  I have read about half.  Officers in that era seemed to have a lot of leave, combined with their trips to UK by sea and return, it is a wonder much was done.  There was a response from Peter Caban’s nephew to the FB pic of Shep and me.

Peter Craker writes:

Hi Ron, I have that book, I belong to the Kilmore Wallan RSL and I asked them for it as no one wants to read it. We are closing down anyway next month as we do not have enough members to form a committee. I have been doing the Anzac services organization for 8 years, I was a Chief QMG, with a 3 year posting as Command Gunner Assistant at COMAUSNAVSUP in the 80s.Let me know your address and I will post it up. I am in Kilmore Victoria.

Peter Craker

0473188835

Have you put 3 June in your diary yet?  We will recognize the anniversary of the collision between MELBOURNE and Frank E Evans in 1969.  This year I have advertised on the MELBOURNE and the Ex members of the RAN and friends FB accounts to have a similar function commencing at 1100 at the GI gates (close to ‘Harry’s’).  There were some of our group, including me, who were serving in MELBOURNE in June 1969.  John Hatchman, Shep, Ted Breukel and Jingles Irwin are starters and Ross Muller is a possible.  Five plus a possible.

Has anybody been in contact with Allan Kay.  If you have could you please let me know.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have only 11 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Terry Ian, Fred, Peter, John, Howie and Speedie.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Terry Hume and Freddie Howes (birthday boys) enjoying a drink with 

Speedie Hannant 3^rd from left

Peter Robinson middle row 5 from right

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects a pic of Shep and me in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Russ Loane, Shep, Steve Power and Bruce Eddes.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney, fuel is too dear (if you can buy any) which make travel a little dicey.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 22 March 2026

G’day.  Does anybody have a copy of the book ‘Breaking Ranks’?  The book put together by Peter Caban the former XO of VOYAGER in 1963.  I know Barrie Quigley has, but if anybody around Sydney area has a copy, could you please shout out.  I want to read his conclusions on the reasons for the collision to compare them with the reasons given in the latest book ‘Abide with me’.

You may heard the interviews conducted by the ANMM on 5 of those who were serving in MELBOURNE and VOYAGER on 10 Feb 64.  I hadn’t until this last week.  Janine Muller forwarded them to me and they are certainly worth a listen.  The URL to commence listening is:   https://soundcloud.com/anmmuseum/sets/moment-of-impact

Have you put 3 June in your diary yet?  We will recognize the anniversary of the collision between MELBOURNE and Frank E Evans in 1969.  This year I have advertised on the MELBOURNE and the Ex members of the RAN and friends FB accounts to have a similar function commencing at 1100 at the GI gates (close to ‘Harry’s’).  There were some of our group, including me, who were serving in MELBOURNE in June 1969.  Shep and Jingles Irwin are starters and Ross Muller is a possible.  Three plus a possible.

Phil Longdon was kind enough to tell me who was in a pic that was published last week.  I am grateful for that advice.  If a pic is published without a name and you can fill it in, please let me know.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have 13 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Dave, Tangles and Allan.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Dave Clifford at LEEUWIN.

Tony Toolen as the 1000th JR to enter LEEUWI N

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects a pic of Mick Gallagher and me in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Ted Breukel, Jaffa and Steve (Grzz) Adams.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney, fuel is too dear (if you can buy any) which make travel a little dicey.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 15 March 2026

G’day.  Last year on 3 June we had a get together at ‘The Rockers’.  This date was chosen intentionally as it coincided with the anniversary of the collision between MELBOURNE and Frank E Evans in 1969.  This year I have advertised on the MELBOURNE and the Ex members of the RAN and friends FB accounts to have a similar function commencing at 1100 at the GI gates (close to ‘Harry’s’).  There were some of our group, including me, who were serving in MELBOURNE in June 1969.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have 15 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Bill, Reg, Dave, Billy and Ross.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Reg Turnbull with Tom Houldsworth and Ron Giveen at Dubbo Diggers Bowls

Dave Cargill at Leeuwin dance

Ross and Neica Muller at Fremantle reunion 2025

Bill and Narelle Hay in background

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects a pic of Mick Gallagher and me in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Mike Hogan, JJ Martin, Ted Breukel, Marty Grogan and Knocker Whyte.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney (fuel is too dear and it is not reliable).

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 8 March 2026

G’day.  Autumn has arrived, best time of the year to be alive I reckon. 

I am sure you are all concerned with what is happening in the Middle East, particularly Iran.  Hope all your family and friends that may be in the area are safe.

The Rowland’s are on the move:

Kev and I are planning a trip over east and would like to catch up with a few people while we are over that way. Can you give me Schube's email address, please, and anyone living in the Ulladulla area. I know Rabbit Warren died, but Kev thought others intended moving there.

I don't do emails on my phone, so once we are underway I will be mostly uncontactable except by phone 0450791149.

Thanks and cheers,

Shirley & Kevin 'Darkie' Rowland

Janine Muller relates:

On Sunday last, 1st March - Proserpine R.S.L. held its A.G.M.

The new committee were voted in and Dave Clifford was elected the new

President of the Proserpine R.S.L. unopposed.

I have attached a photo of Dave performing his first duty - presenting

one of our members with a certificate for 30 years cumulative service.

We are all very pleased with Dave’s appointment and wish him well.

Best Regards

Janine Muller

Dave Clifford in 1963-64

Dave in 2026 in the Proserpine RSL

We have several people in our group filling voluntary positions in a multitude of organisations.  These Honorary Committee members range from Presidents to Committee members - workers.  Dave Clifford has now joined this group.  I know Annie Oakley and Barrie Quigley are Presidents of their respective RSL sub branches.  Congratulations to all.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have 15 left in stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Bryan, Glen, Danny, Brent, Neil, Neil, Jim and Hoges.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Bryan on the left and Hoges on the right (wingers)

Danny Tiley

Brent Balchin 3^rd from left – with Tom, Knocker and me

Neil Duckworth CR 5 from right

Toby Turner on left -  Mick Gallagher on right 2024 Remembrance Day

Jim Bush and his motely bevy of mates behind him – Rocky, Gordon, Kev and Peewee

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects a pic of Mick Gallagher and me in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Jaffa, Shep, Bruce Eddes, JJ Martin, Knocker Whyte, Alan Curtin and Jingles Irwin.  Text message from Bazza Quigley.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 1 March 2026

G’day.  Vale John Partington, a copy of a death notice:

Death notice for

PARTINGTON, John Edward

Publication: The Cairns Post

Date Listed: 30/7/2022

Location: Clifton Beach

Loving husband of Paula, devoted father of Kristie and Scott.

23/04/1947 - 27/07/2022

Smooth seas and following winds mate.  Thanks to James Carroll for chasing this up.

Pic of Doug Wilson, Kev Smith and Russ Loane doing the R’ie at Kedron RSL last Friday.  Looking very smart men.

Diver Macca catching up with Bristles Lassau in Eden.  Thanks for the pic Macca.

Janine Muller aka Brian Duance’s widow arranged to have her Bereavement pin presented by Dave Clifford 7^th intake.

Janine and Brian at CERBERUS – no questions on the terrain please!!

Janine and Dave at the Proserpine RSL with the Bereavement pin and one of our stickers.  The RSL Club looks interesting.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have a limited stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Len, Froggie and Churchie.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Len Jones

Froggie French – 5 from the left Back Row

Stan Church

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of our gathering in Husky in February 2026.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Shep, Steve Power, Schubes, Bruce Eddes and Pubes Hair.  Text message from Steve Power.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Bendigo returning to Sydney on Thursday.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 22 February 2026

G’day.  The Bereavement Pins provided by Chief of Navy are proving popular.  I reckon they are marvelous.

Barry Andrew will be presented his, by Russ Loane.  Barry’s wife KayMaree was a WRAN.

Knocker Whyte will be presenting pins to Phylis Evans and Phil Narramore’s partner Tracey, plus one for one of his aircrewman mate’s wife.

and how good is this.  From Janine Muller:

Hello Ron

My parcel arrived safely yesterday, thank you very, very much.

I have been in touch with Dave Clifford - JR 93991

Dave has kindly agreed to present me with my Bereavement Pin at the local RSL this afternoon. He has also agreed to be in a photo shoot, which I will forward on to you for the newsletter.

As it turned out, Dave was serving on the Yarra at the same time as my late husband Brian. He was in a different intake of JR'S (KAIBER 1 DIVISION), but would have been at Leeuwin around the same time.

He was in the Seventh Passing Out Parade - Wednesday 10th June, 1964, as he shared his booklet with me.

Ron, do you know by chance if a copy of this passing out parade booklet are still available? Over time Dave's booklet became water damaged due to a cyclone up here and some of the pages are stuck together as a result. He has asked for my help in locating another copy.

Dave plays a very active roll in our RSL, as each week he sells raffle tickets to raise funds to keep our RSL financial (there are no poker machines in our club).

The Proserpine RSL was closed for some time and we all thought it was going to be closed and forgotten, as it seems to go in many small rural towns today.

Against all odds, a few ex-service personnel band together and they have worked hard to make the club financial once again.

They are real heroes.

Many thanks again.

Janine

Barry Quigley will be presenting two pins to spouses of ex-serving members in WA. 

The Bereavement Pins have been manufactured with the Chief of Navy’s intent to present them to the spouse/partners of serving and ex-serving members.   I have a supply of them now and am happy to forward them out to our group.   This means I will forward you a pin for you to present to not only one of our group but for the spouse of any ex sailor or ex WRAN who has passed over the bar, who is close to you.

Best of luck and health to Glenn Forno who is not as well as he would like to be:

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have a limited stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Dennis, Don, Allen, Spike, John and Poolie.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Steve White – left

Les Allan. – FR left

Terry Pitt – Kaiber BR 2^nd from right

Max Lampo – 3^rd from left

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of our gathering in Husky in February 2026.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Kev Hartigan, Diver Macca, Knocker Whyte, Russ Loane, Barry Quigley, Bruce Eddes and my good mate Bruce Pollock.  Text message from Steve Power.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Manning Point going to Bendigo on Saturday.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 15 February 2026

G’day.  Those of us who assembled for the VOYAGER/MELBOURNE incident were involved in five assemblies in Huskisson/Nowra/CRESWELL in the past week.  Pics of the events at Huskisson have been included in our Face Book Account  http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

and our Web site http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/weekly-news-2026/

Those who attended were:  John and Lyn Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Barry Andrew, Barrie Quigley, Bongo and Jo Di Betta, Shep and Jean Shephard, Spook Cairns and his grandson Charlie, Doug and Trish Wilson and me.  I received messages wishing us well from Hector Hart and Rod Hazell and apologies for not attending by Schubes, Russ Nelson and Mick Gallagher who are all currently in Sick Bay.  Mick Power who was an ORD in MELBOURNE at the same time as us was there.  His wife Sally was also there.

Genevieve Turner left us on Friday 6 Feb.  She was the loving wife of Toby Turner for over 56 years.  Her history is contained in last week’s Weekly News.  We are looking forward to joining you to celebrate Genney's life in person or online on Tuesday 17th February at 2pm, Great Northern Gardens of Remembrance, 31 Tallowwood Drive, Deception Bay, .

The link to the livestream of the funeral is

https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/

Z69UCm05wRi2pZpTGfpIR2_AN?domain=gngor.com.au and PIN number is 3187

In loving memory of Genney, we also invite you to honour her beautiful spirit by making a donation to Parkinson's Australia in lieu of flowers via the following link:

https://www.mycause.com.au/giftcard/details?charityld=14782.

Russ Nelson forwarded the message.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have a limited stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

The Bereavement Pins have been manufactured with the Chief of Navy’s intent to present them to the spouse/partners of serving and ex-serving members.   I have a supply of them now and am happy to forward them out to our group.   This means I will forward you a pin for you to present to not only one of our group but for the spouse of any ex sailor or ex WRAN who has passed over the bar, who is close to you.

Happy Birthday to Dennis, Don, Allen, Spike, John and Poolie.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Spike ‘Ron’ and Jean Jones 2025 in Fremantle.

Don Churchward in 1964 in Kaiber 1

Allen Lowe

Poolie – 2^nd from left

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of our gathering in Husky in February 2026.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to and receiving text messages from all mentioned above.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney going to Manning Point later in the week.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 8 February 2026

G’day.  The Bereavement Pins have been manufactured with the Chief of Navy’s intent to present them to the spouse/partners of serving and ex-serving members.   I have a supply of them now and am happy to forward them out to our group.   This means I will forward you a pin for you to present to not only one of our group but for the spouse of any ex sailor or ex WRAN who has passed over the bar, who is close to you.

Genevieve Turner left us on Friday 6 Feb.  She was the loving wife of Toby Turner for over 56 years.  Their daughter states they were inseparable, best friends who travelled through life side by side.  She was fearlessly loyal, fun, generous, caring, kind and endlessly loving.  RIP Genney you were an inspiration to all who knew you.  She has been the conduit for me over the past five or so years as Toby battles his illness.  Russ Nelson forwarded the message.

10 February is nearly here.  We will be meeting in Huskisson for the commemoration of those who were lost in the VOYAGER.  Lunch at the Husky Pub, then we will be recognizing our EXJR of the Year by awarding the shield and a pin to Bazza Quigley on Tuesday night prior to the ceremony in Club JB.  On Wednesday morning - breakfast in Husky at the usual cafe.   For those who play bowls, we compete at the Nowra Bowls Club for the Voyager Shield bowls against RSL Zone 20 commencing at 1230 for 1300 and then for the third year running, the Mess Dinner in CRESWELL on the Thursday evening.  Have received MRU’s from Russ Nelson, Schubes and Mick Gallagher.

John Hatchman’s email address has been hacked.  His new address is john.hatchman@icloud.com

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have a limited stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Who remembers Phil Franklin (Boong).  He contacted me by email during the week.  His pic is at the bottom of the page.

James Carroll responded to Schubes birthday wishes:

Schubes

Thanks for that, but it's not due until Wednesday. Who, as a sixteen year old newly enlisted Junior Recruit, thought that they would be still making a nuisance of themselves as a 79 year old.  I'm already planning the big eight zero in Penang, Malaysia on 4th February 2027 and Chinese New Year 6th February 2027. My Next of Kin now lives up there. It is 49 years since I last visited Penang on HMAS STUART, but I'm going to do a three week practice run to Singapore/Malaysia in April/May 2026. I did a week in September 2025 as practice run to Singapore and after an absence of 48 years there was not too much left that I remembered. I was trying to find the bars outside the Dockyard Gates at Sembawang. I know that there is only one left - the Nelson Bar.  Maybe I'll find it this year.

Look after yourself in the Gym, Mr Moon Boot.

Cheers

James

Happy Birthday to Ron, Darrel, Bruce, Fred, Gerry, Tony and Bob.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Darrel Girvan and Tony Grice

Bruce Pollock’s pic I cannot find.  I find this amazing as we served together, played together and partied together for many years – he must have infiltrated my camera and deleted my pics.

Gerry Bandy.  A good mate.  He was in Nakina Division.  He and I stood rounds on 4A Heads on 10 Feb 64, at 1930 -2000.  At 2045 we didn’t have a job.

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of Remembrance Day 2025 in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Shep, Barry Andrew, Bongo Di Betta, Jaffa, Tom Houldsworth, Bruce Eddes, Knocker Whyte, Schubes and Barry Quigley.  Text messages from Russ Nelson, Doug Wilson, Bongo, John Hatchman, Schubes and Bruce Eddes.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney going to Husky/Nowra for the week.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 1 February 2026

G’day.  Glen Butler presented Pat Stupple with a ‘Chief of Navy’ Bereavement Pin.  Nifty Nev Thomas was in attendance.

Schubes had an accident in his gym.  One of the weights dropped on his big toe. 

You all know Schubes as he wishes you ‘Happy Birthday’ every year.

10 February is nearly here.  We will be meeting in Huskisson for the commemoration of those who were lost in the VOYAGER.    We will be recognizing our EXJR of the Year by awarding the shield and a pin to Bazz Quigley on Tuesday night prior to the ceremony.  On Wednesday morning - breakfast in Husky.   For those who play bowls, we compete at the Nowra Bowls Club for the Voyager Shield bowls against RSL Zone 20 commencing at 1230 for 1300 and then for the third year running, the Mess Dinner in CRESWELL on the Thursday evening.  Have received MRU’s from Russ Nelson, Schubes and Mick Gallagher.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have a limited stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Brian, Syd, Knocker, James, John, Charlie and Shep.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Knocker and Marilyn in Fremantle 2025

James Carroll in Cairns

Charlie Wright in Cairns

Shep at GI Chapel

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of Remembrance Day 2025 in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to John Hatchman, Schubes and Barry Quigley.  Text messages from Schubes, Shep, John Hatchman, Nifty Thomas, Glen Butler, Tassy and Nev Barry.  Received an email from Surfie Richards.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/

https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 25 January 2026

G’day.  HAPPY AUSTRALIA Day for tomorrow.  My sad council have taken the annual celebrations away from Dee Why Beach.  Bloody losers.  We are going up the coast to participate in another celebration.

Glen Butler will be presenting Pat Stupple with a ‘Chief of Navy’ Bereavement Pin.  This is occurring this Tuesday 27 January at Cibo Coffee, Marion SA.  Please contact Glen if you wish to attend so he can arrange seating.  His number is 0411 479 567.

Lyn Edwards, Marty Edwards wife passed away last week.  Mal Chatfield forwarded this information.

Our collective condolences to Marty and his family.

Put 10 February in your diary.  We will be meeting in Huskisson for the commemoration of those who were lost in the VOYAGER.    We will be recognizing our EXJR of the Year by awarding the shield to Bazz Quigley on Tuesday night prior to the ceremony.  On Wednesday morning - breakfast in Husky.   For those who play bowls, we compete at the  Nowra Bowls Club for the Voyager Shield bowls against RSL Zone 20 commencing at 1230 for 1300 and then for the third year running, the Mess Dinner in CRESWELL on the Thursday evening.  Have received MRU’s from Russ Nelson and Mick Gallagher.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have a limited stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Peter, Ian, Alan and Wally.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

I don’t have any pics of the above.  I made a few errors in the pic department last week.  Will try to pick up the game.

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of Remembrance Day 2025 in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Pat Stupple.  Text messages from Glen Butler, Ross Muller, Nifty Nev Thomas, Jim Harris, Jeff Dunn, Stan Church and Terry Dack.  Emails from Rocky Freier, .  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

Jeff and Kay Dunn travelled to Brisbane and caught up with Butts and Margaret Butterfield.  Thanks for the pic.

I am in Sydney currently enjoying watching the ‘Big Bash’ final.  Great entertainment.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/

https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 18 January 2026

G’day.  Our Adelaide family departed today from Sydney.  The new school year is not far away.

Lyn Edwards, Marty Edwards wife passed away this morning.  Informed by George Pike.  Will forward on details as received.  Our collective condolences to Marty and his family.

Put 10 February in your diary.  We will be meeting in Huskisson for the commemoration of those lost in the VOYAGER.  On Wednesday morning breakfast in Husky.  For those who play bowls, we compete in Nowra for the Voyager Shield bowls against RSL Zone 20 commencing at 1230 for 1300 and then for the third year running, the Mess Dinner in CRESWELL on the Thursday evening.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have a limited stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Jim, Clockwork, Chris, Alan Ronnie, Mal, Glenn, Johno, Peter and Glenn.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Clockwork ‘foremost’ with Ted and Fiona Hase and Jim Harris

Chris Rowland 6^th from left Centre row

Glen Summerhayes 7^th from left Back row

Mal enjoying the delights of Goulburn

Glenn (blue shirt)

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of Remembrance Day 2025 in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Stan Church and Bruce Eddes.  Text messages from  Bazz Quigley.  Emails from Rocky Freier, Glen Butler and Sandy Michels.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/

https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 11 January 2026

G’day.  Bob Stupple’s funeral was held on Friday last.  Two of our group, Nev Thomas and Glen Butler attended.  I watched it online and thought the service contained empathy and humour from his family, this combined with others who recognized Bob’s memorable life’s achievements.  These were many including having two historical books on Reynalla published and contributing to ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services.  Bob was a fine example of our era.  When he paid off he started out as a salesman selling Encyclopedia Britannia.  We all know how hard that job was.  What a legend.

Nev’s comments:

thought I should report, our good old ship mate, Bob Stupple had a fine send off today, crossing the bar at Heysen Chapel in Centennial Park with many family, friends attending. There was a good turn out of veterans past and present. It was wonderful to hear the eulogies and wonderful memories expressed, celebrating Bob's life with much love and genuine good humour. It was wonderful to see Bob's Naval service was commemorated with solemn tradition as we would expect, and I was proud to be there to help send him on his way. We both grew up in the same Bayside area in the 50's and 60's around Somerton, the local beaches, schools and footy clubs. We were only 7 months apart in age and only a few blocks away. So close, yet so far. A copy of his Commemorative Card is attached.

Best regards to all

Nev Thomas

Glen’s comments:

Gday Ron

Went to Bob’s service yesterday at Centennial Park

Was a good send off with many of friends and family

He was a great example of what can be achieved in life!

Glenb

By Editor:  I have asked Glen to present Pat with a RAN Bereavement Pin.  I will keep you updated on the details.

Put 10 February in your diary.  We will be meeting in Huskisson for the commemoration of those lost in the VOYAGER.  On Wednesday morning breakfast in Husky.  For those who play bowls, we compete in Nowra for the Voyager Shield bowls against RSL Zone 20 commencing at 1230 for 1300 and then for the third year running, the Mess Dinner in CRESWELL on the Thursday evening.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have a limited stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Ron, Kim, Vic, Graham, Dick, Gerrard, Annie, Nev and Ron.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Nev Barry right with Kev Smith

Dick with friend at the Friday night dance

Kim at Fremantle 2025

Annie and Jerry in Cairns 2024

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of Remembrance Day 2025 in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to John Hatchman, Steve Power and Bruce Eddes.  Text messages from Marty Grogan, Steve Power and Bazza Quigley.  Emails from Nev Thomas, Glen Butler and Stan Church.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/

https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 4 January 2026

G’day.  For those who joined in January 63 – I guess there were a lot of young Australians feeling a little apprehensive today, 63 years ago. Maybe, thinking of what they had let themselves in for, for the next 12 years.  Me, I wanted to be a sailor since I turned 6.

Congratulations to Barry Quigley who has been selected by his peers to be the LEEUWIN EXJR of the Year for 2025.  His name will be inserted on the Butch Cousins Memorial EXJR of the Year Shield and will be presented with an EXJR of the Year Pin.

Bazz’s contribution since the inception of our group LEEUWIN 63 has been outstanding.  He has attended all of our major functions.  He has led two successful committee’s in 2008 and 2025 to host us in Fremantle.  (Have a look at the pics on our website to see how much everybody enjoyed themselves). Additionally, in recent years he has been instrumental in organising our group in the West to commemorate on the anniversary of those lost in VOYAGER.

These contributions make him a worthy recipient of our major yearly award.

Congratulations Bazz.

We have been operating as a group since 2002.  Congratulations to all of you , and there has been many who have contributed in any manner to our success over these years.

Bob Stupple’s funeral details

Pat Stupple writes:

Bobs' funeral is Fri 9th Jan at 1.30. It will be in the Heysen Chapel at Centennial Park & will be live streamed. It will be in our Adelaide advertiser paper on Sat.

Put 10 February in your diary.  We will be meeting in Huskisson for the commemoration of those lost in the VOYAGER.  On Wednesday morning breakfast in Husky.  For those who play bowls, we compete in Nowra for the Voyager Shield bowls against RSL Zone 20 commencing at 1230 for 1300 and then for the third year running, the Mess Dinner in CRESWELL on the Thursday evening.

If you or your wife/partner want an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’ mailed out.   Let me know?   We have a limited stock.  Could you also include your snail mail address?  Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Happy Birthday to Glen, Schubes, Terry and Marty.  Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Glen and Suzette at VOYAGER Mess Dinner 2024

Schubes and Marian at VOYAGER after breakfast 2025

Terry 2^nd row 3^rd right note Bob Stupple RIP far right BR  2003 Gold Coast

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of Remembrance Day 2025 in Sydney.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Bazz Quigley and Rocky Freier .  Text messages from Russ Loane, George Pike, Bruce Eddes, Tom Houldsworth, Steve Power, Barry Andrew, Annie Oakley, Mick Gallagher, Doug Wilson, Sandy Michels and Marty Grogan.  Emails from Jeff Wake, Ted Hase, Daryl Hannant, Tom Kinross and Norm Friebe.  If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Manning Point.

Give your mates a ring, send an SMS or an email, (if you want contact details, ask me, and then tell me about it) I am sure they would appreciate it.

Cheers

Ron

0410529797

rugbyron1@gmail.com

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/

https://www.facebook.com/LEEUWIN1963