Weekly News 2025

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 21 December 2025

G’day. MERRY CHRISTMAS to all. Hope you enjoy the big day with your family and friends.

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 the Mess Dinner in CRESWELL on the Thursday evening.

Happy Birthday to Tom, Doug, Moot and Perry. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Tom	Kinross	tomkinross22@bigpond.com
Doug	Brown
Moot	Sutton	moot23@bigpond.com
Perry	Whitehouse	perrywhitehouse@yahoo.com.au

Tom flanked by Ross Fullarton and Darby Ashton

Ross Fullarton, Tom Kinross and Darby Ashton

Don’t have any pics of Doug Moot or Perry – please send

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 Davo, JJ Martin, Russ Loane, Jingles Irwin, Bruce Eddes and Jaffa. Emails from John Hatchman, Gil Larsson and Mal Ritchie. 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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 14 December 2025

G’day. 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 the Mess Dinner in CRESWELL on the Thursday evening.

We are going to change the format of our major functions. A survey has been conducted amongst previous EXJR’s of the year. We have decided in future we will not be having a dinner function. The format will be:

PM around 1600ish we will assemble for the ‘Meet and Greet’ where smallie eats will be on order;

Lunch the next day will be the main assembly, aiming at a la carte style meal;

Breakfast/Brunch will be the farewell function.

Merchandise will be at a minimum if any at all and we will not be providing a band. (Maybe hearing aids)

Shirley Rowland forwarded this good news message:

Kev has asked me to share the following good news:

'As of Tuesday 9th December, the specialist has given Kev/Darky the 'all clear' from throat cancer.'

Wishing you and all ex-JR's and their families a happy Xmas season.

Cheers,

Shirley Rowland

Glenn Summerhayes forwarded this message:

Could we please have a copy of the above book if stìll available?

Please Note that Jennie' and I are returning to QLD on 8th. February 2026. My Daughter has Offered us a Two Bedroom Cottage on her recently Purchased Property in Tannum Sands a suburb of Gladson.

This is a very well known beach resort 30 Km South of Gladston.

My Health is somewhat Deteriorating and the move will give Jennie' and I additional Support at these pretty stressing times. Unfortunately the past 6 months have been extremely bad & challenging.

During this period I have had several conditions causing major concerns including Bladder Cancer and more Skin Cancers with Surgeries.

Please pass on our best wishes to ALL OUR 1963 JRTE VETERANS for Xmas and New Year AND A HOPE FOR MANY YEARS TO COME

Cheers to All –

Glenn & Jennie' Summerhayes

7/63. R94128

Russ Loane and I attended the inaugural Ex Service Interservice Bowls competition held in Yamba last Mon-Wed. A little bit of history.

Happy Birthday to Ted, Ross and Wally. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Ted	Hase	tedhase@aol.com
Ross	Fullarton	rossarian@outlook.com
Wally	Gawne	rgawne@bigpond.net.au

Ted with Fiona and Jim and Brian

Jim Harries, Ted Hase and Brian gorringe

Ross and Wally sharing the same table at a Gold Coast function.

Wally and Ross Fullarton

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 JJ Martin, Shep, Steve Power, Glenn Summerhayes and Russ Loane. Text contact with Shep and Marty Grogan. 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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 7 December 2025

G’day. Thanks to all those who responded to the call for starters for the Mess Dinner in February 2026. I have forwarded on your responses to CRESWELL.

We have been considering the future of our group in relation to functions. ExJR of the Year have been asked their opinion on the way ahead. Results will be published next week.

We are participating in the inaugural Ex Service Interservice Bowls competition which is being held in Yamba this coming week. A little bit of history.

Happy Birthday to Geoff, Charlie and Bristles. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Geoff	Toole
Charlie	Stewart
Bristles	Lassau	lyndall.lassau@bigpond.com

Bristles and Lou in the background

Bristles

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 Steve Power, Rocky Freier, Bruce Eddes, Russ Loane, Shep, Schubes and James Carroll. Text contact with Bristles Shep and Doug Wilson. If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Manning Point, going to Yamba tomorrow.

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 30 November 2025

G’day. The advertised itinerary for VOYAGER 2026

is below. If you wish to attend the Mess Dinner (if you were on MELBOURNE on 10 Feb 1964) you need to contact me. There are limited seats available and CRESWELL are trying to tie this event down before they go on long leave.

Tuesday 10^th Feb Commemoration Ceremony Husky

Wednesday 11^th Feb Voyager Shield - Bowls

Thursday 12^th Feb Mess Dinner CRESWELL.

Genney Turner, wife of of Neil (Toby) writes:

Just letting you know Toby had a fall on Friday night (the 3^rd one since 8^th August) landing on his back on the tiles in our meals area. He sustained a blow to his head & right elbow, thankfully no broken bones. He has no idea what happened & neither do I as I was awakened by the crash & tore out of bed to find him on the floor. I pressed my medical pendant & within 30 minutes an ambulance arrived assessed the situation & took him to hospital where he remains for the time being . Thank God for the paramedics they are the absolute best

Toby will be undergoing lots of tests to see if there are any underlying causes other than his Parkinson’s, together with rehabilitation to help get him back on his feet. Currently he needs two nurses to help him stand. Unfortunately, his Parkinson's has decided to notch it up a level with "gait freezing" & other mobility issues together with some other issues

Life does like to throw us all curve balls which we just have to catch & make the best of - I know, easier said than done, but we must give it our best shot.

Kind Regards

Genney T (Wife of Toby Turner)

+61 439 066 944

action@ntgt.com.au

Happy Birthday to Rod, Lew, Gil and George. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Rod	King
Lew	Smith	jlsmith39@outlook.com
Gil	Larsson	gil.larsson@gmail.com
Allan	Pike	vendetta3da@gmail.com

Lew (left) with Rick Avery

Lew Smith and Rick Avey

George at our function in Fremantle October 2025 (Shirley Rowland in background)

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 Russ Loane, Mick Gallagher, Russ Nelson and Bruce Eddes. Text contact with Macca, Pee Wee and Bristles. An email from Tug Wilson, Irish and John Hatchman. 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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 23 November 2025

G’day. Jock McGregor has left us. Don Churchward did some research and has confirmed Jock passed over the bar on 12 August 2025. His funeral was held in Canberra. Smooth seas and following winds old mate.

Jock was one of those privileged to be part of Ken Railton’s rowing team at LEEUWIN. I know he loved his time in those shells and especially liked to be in the winning team as the LEEUWIN team invariably was a winner. He mentioned to me some years ago the only regret he had with rowing was that he had no tangible memories of his involvement. ‘Navy was too lousy to let us keep our singlet’s’, or words to that effect.

At the time we were talking I was putting together our annual trek to Husky for the VOYAGER commemoration ceremony and Jock was attending. I invited Tom Kinross (a fellow rower) to present Jock with a LEEUWIN rowing singlet (which was purchased locally and suitably inscribed). He was chuffed.

Jock was a really popular bloke who will be sorely missed.

VOYAGER 2026

Details from the ‘Survivors of VOYAGER FB page’ reflect:

Tuesday 10^th Feb Commemoration Ceremony Husky

Thursday 12^th Feb Mess Dinner CRESWELL.

Saying that:

I have contacted the Command Warrant Officer in CRESWELL asking for details of VOYAGER 2026. To date I have received no information but have been reliably informed the committee are working on and towards the event. I have sent another message asking for details to ensure we are invited to the Mess dinner. It is also planned that the Matelots will play bowls (Voyager Shield) on Wednesday 11^th in Nowra.

Aged Cared made Easy 1300078688

Do you know about this publication

It is a publication which is broken into localities and gives you advice as to what is available in your location (Australia wide), John Hatchman picked his copy up from his Dr’s surgery and has alerted me of its existence. Opening it, it looks as if there is too much information available. Looking closer you can cut out most of that and look at the stuff that is applicable to you.

Happy Birthday to Peewee, John and Karl. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Peewee	Petherick	dcpetherick@gmail.com
John	Hunter
Karl	Csendes	no record

Peewee

Pee Wee

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 Barry Andrew, Tom Houldsworth, Jaffa, Bruce Eddes and JJ Martin. Text contact with Jeff Dunn (he and Kay are safe after the cyclone in Darwin), Peewee, John Hatchman, Mick Gallagher. An email from Don re Jock’s funeral, Roger Collins inquiring about future functions on the Gold Coast and Ross Muller offering to help out financially as our group dropped money on the last function in Perth. If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney for a few weeks.

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 16 November 2025

G’day. Another successful Remembrance Day, our group, Hatch, Tom, Shep, Spook, Mick, Hoges and myself were joined by Pete and Trish Haggartity and Gerry and Di Bron with the ANMM Fleet staff. Perfect weather and our address was conducted by Mick who did a marvelous job. He included in his address an extract from the ROP of VAMPIRE in November 1964. I could see when he was reading the ROP – he was reliving those times. (a copy is on our FB page)

Thanks to John Hatchman’s inspiration, the Emergency Medical Information Books have been mailed out to all those who wanted one. We have a limited stock. Additionally, I should have added – (Do you want one for your wife?) If you do please let me know. Could you also include your snail mail address?

These Information Books cost you nothing – and might save your’s or your wife’s life. All you need to do is fill out the details of the book, then attach it to your fridge door by the magnet supplied. If the Ambulance comes to your place to enact an emergency they will look on your fridge door for this document. (The council of Ambulance Authorities are a co-sponsor of this initiative). Remember, this could save your life!!!!

Wrap up of October function in Fremantle

Minutes of Meeting 6/7^th Intakes for 62^nd JR’s Reunion

Present: Barrie ‘Quigs’ Quigley, Stewart ‘Stewie’ Dewar, Greg ‘Bungy’ Williams, Kevin ‘Darkey’ Rowland, Shirley Rowland, Spike Jones

Commenced 1355.

Barrie reported total cost was $comprising:

Meet & Greet – $528.64

Barbeque – $1,002

Gala Dinner – $4,361

Expenses:

Rod $1,127, Spike (name tags) $460, Kevin (wine labels) $100, Wine was donated.

Income (45 x $120 = $5,400) covered expenses

Discussion:

Time of Event – October was a good time of year weather-wise to hold the Reunion

Length – Four days instead of three, providing a break in the middle, worked well.

Weekdays or weekends – pro’s and con’s for both, a mix allows for more options

Any recommendations – Earlier notice of costs so intending participants can plan ahead

Possible future locations for Reunions – Stewie suggested Canberra or Geelong, but the location of members willing to organise overrides new venues. The Gold Coast was mentioned as the easiest for accommodation and facilities, although two Reunions have already been held there.

Perth Reunion 2025 Attandance:

Fewer than expected attended, mainly due to illness.

Of 67 originally expressing interest, only 45 attended.

For the Leeuwin visit, 32 names were listed but only 18 attended on the day.

Overall feedback has been positive.

Maintenance of the Leeuwin Memorial:

Kevin asked if the Navy Cadet Unit is still maintaining the memorial, and what is the state of the Fund set up for the Memorial’s upkeep? Barrie responded that he knows the head of the Navy League Australia and will follow up with him.

Meeting ended at 1435.

I have been receiving emails from Slade Gray, Dolly’s son asking about Dolly’s time in BRISBANE. Dolly was a legend with us with his accounts of his escapades during his time in and out of the circus. I used to look forward to his accounts and I know a lot of you did also. Imagine what went on in the family circles, he must have had them in stitches. He told the boys about Subic. Not sure how much!!

Happy Birthday to Soz, Tom, Barry, Dave, Phil, Bockie, Phil and Charley. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Vic	Soszynski
Tom	Houldsworth	tgh2111@outlook.com
Barry	Andrew	barryandrew63@gmail.com
Dave	Hanlon	dehanlon@bigpond.net.au
Phil	O'Meara	no record
Kev	Bock	boggy1947@hotmail.com
Phil	Clements	towdogmack@gmail.com
Charley	Burrows	no record

Tom and Val Houldsworth ;

2. then Barry Andrew;

3. then Phil (3^rd from left)

Tom, Ron, Ted, Mick, John, Schubes, Spooke

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

Has anybody been in contact with Jock McGregor recently? I am getting rejects from his email address and no response from his phone.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Russ Loane, Schubes ,Rocky Freier John Bensley, Steve Power and Bruce Eddes. Text contact with Bazz Quigley and Brent Balchin. If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney for a few weeks.

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 9 November 2025

G’day. Remembrance Day is Tuesday. John Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Shep, Spook, Hoges, Mick Gallagher and myself intend to attend. Bongo is recovering from knee surgery, he and Jo will miss this year. Still waiting to hear from the others. Come on down and get a pic on VAMPIRE. Have morning tea provided by the ANMM and have lunch and a drink at the local. A good way to spend a Tuesday.

Thanks to John Hatchman’s inspiration, I have the Emergency Medical Information Books. I am ready to send out to those who have indicated they would like to receive one.

Vic Venaglia, Ted Hase, Dave Hanlon, Davo, Bongo and Sandy Michels are on the list. Additionally, I should have added – (Do you want one for your wife also?) If you do or don’t please let me know. Could you also include your snail mail address?

Happy Birthday to Terry, Pete, John, Max and John. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Terry	Coulthard	tcoulthard@bigpond.com
Peter	McMillan
John	Wright
Max	Nugent
John	Stephens

Terry Coulthard in Leeuwin – Nakina Middle Row 2^nd from left

Max Nugent in Leeuwin Middle Row 1^st left

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of Pemberton 2025

Has anybody been in contact with Jock McGregor recently? I am getting rejects from his email address and no response from his phone.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Mick Gallagher, Russ Loane, Bongo DiBetta, Bristles Lassau and Bruce Eddes. Text contact with Fred Howes and Bazz Quigley. If you have anything to say please contact me I would love to publish it.

I am in Sydney for a few weeks.

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 2 November 2025

G’day. Met up with Fred Howes and Pie Pieda today in Adelaide for coffee. We are in Adelaide for two days before continuing our journey to Sydney.

Remembrance Day is Tuesday week. John Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Shep, Spook, Hoges and myself intend to attend. Still waiting to hear from the others. Come on down and get a pic on VAMPIRE. Have morning tea provided by the ANMM and have lunch and a drink at the local. A good way to spend a Tuesday.

Thanks for the response to the questionnaire on the function in Freo.

Surfie Richards reports:

Hi Ron,

Great to see everyone had a great time at the reunion. I thought I’d best let you know that I had changed my email address for the weekly news to ianI94108@gmail.com.

Also, I thought I’d best let you know that tomorrow I head off into the hospital for heart bypass surgery which came out of the blue, the surgeon also said I was lucky that I had my European holiday without him knowing of my condition otherwise he would’ve stopped me going but then again I didn’t even know either and still don’t have any symptoms.

That is why I didn’t attend the reunion. I would’ve loved to hopefully the next one and I’ll be a foreign all for run. All four cylinders eight cylinders is eco-unfriendly these days.

Anyway, take care, Ron

Surfie Richards

Happy Birthday to Guy, Allen Rocky, Wayne and Bill. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Guy	Irwin
Allen	Sams
Rocky	Freier	brian.freier@yahoo.com.au
Wayne	Godenzie	wandagodenzie@gmail.com
Bill	Healey

Guy Irwin in 63

Rocky Freier Front Row on left

Len Railton, Nicho,Norm Friebe, Jim Bush and Rocky Freier

Has anybody been in contact with Jock McGregor recently? I am getting rejects from his email address.

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of Pemberton 2025.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of travelling with Russ Loane. We separated on Friday. Talked to Fred Howes and Marty Grogan during the week. Received emails from Ross Muller, Tony Bath, Toby Turner, Russ Dale and Terry Dack.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/2025-fremantle/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 26 October 2025

G’day. Russ Loane, John Bensley and Ron Strom and I went to Pemberton on our wander east. We located the buildings and the swimming pool we used on our weekend excursions in 1963. John Bensley who joined Leeuwin in 1966 indicated his group didn’t use Pemberton. Can you remember your time there? I remember climbing the very tall trees and the movie ‘Psycho’ which was on at the local picture show. What do you remember about the place?

Remembrance Day is fast approaching. Tuesday, this year. I have forwarded an email to Scott from the ANMM to ensure everything is in place for us to hold the ceremony on the foc’sle of VAMPIRE. He has responded approving our input. Looking forward to seeing you there.

We are now two weeks out of the function in Fremantle. The recent function committee wish to do a wash up of the events. For those who attended, could you help us out please by forwarding your comments whether they be credits or criticism’s of the event. What was good to great and what wasn’t that appealing. Did it go too long or was it not long enough. Was there enough events? What should we do next time?

Have a look at the pics on our website of the function.

It is worth looking also at the 2008 pics of our function which also was held at Freo.

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/2008-reunion-fremantle/

From Toby Turner

Many thanks for keeping me up to date via newsletters etc. The reunion weekend and the Remembrace Day on Vampire would have been on my list. Unfortunately I am almost house bound these days .. my Parkinsons Disease is gathering steam .. Regards,

Neil (Toby) Turner

These pics were taken by Russ when we were in Pemberton

Happy Birthday to Nicho, Marty, Roy and Marty. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Darrel	Nicholson	learnorburn@hotmail.com.au
Marty	Grogan	grevillethedevil@gmail.com
Roy	Rigg	rssarigg@bigpond.com
Marty	Edwards	edwardsmartin011@gmail.com

Darryl Nicholson Back Row on right

Ken Railton, Nicho,Norm Friebe, Jim Bush and Rocky Freier

Marty in the middle with his son Darren on his right

Roy with his wife Sue

Marty Edwards

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects pics of where we stayed on our weekend excursion in Pemberton WA.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of travelling with Russ Loane and talking to Tom Houldsworth, Rod Hazell, Bazza Quigley and Blue Quinn. Ray Poole contacted me asking about Dave Cargill.

Russ and I are still on the road. We are in Kalgoolie and intend to continue our journey east tomorrow.

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

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 19 October 2025

G’day. Remembrance Day is fast approaching. Tuesday, this year. I have forwarded an email to Scott from the ANMM to ensure everything is in place for us to hold the ceremony on the foc’sle of VAMPIRE. He has responded approving our input. Looking forward to seeing you there.

Jim Clegg’s Dedication Service held today at Garden Island Chapel

Mike Shephard was there to represent our group.

Sydney, Australia

Gail Quinlan and family and Shep

Have a look at the Dedication page on our site to see the plaque

Click on

Fremantle 2025

Bazz Quigley and his team, Rod Hazell, Bungy Williams, Spike Jones, Stewie Dewar, Darky and Shirley Rowland need to be congratulated for their brilliant work to put this event on and made it run like clockwork. By Editor - Thank you team for all your efforts.

45 of us attended the four get together functions over the past 4 days. The meet and greet on Thursday saw us all muster at the Bicton RSL to say g’day. We were fed superbly and the bar was looked after by Matthew Quigley. (Bazz and Alice’s son)

On Friday, we had our Dinner Dance at the Swan Yacht Club, again food and drink were top class. Band blew us away – just brilliant. A few decided to dance but I think old age is creeping up on too many of us.

On Saturday about 20 of us did the guided walking tour of LEEUWIN which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Additionally, we had time to have pics taken at the JR Memorial in front of the Drill Hall.

Sunday was the Farewell BBQ. The weather was threatening to spoil this outdoor activity but didnt. Cook your own BBQ was the order of the day and was a lot of fun. Despite catering with steaks (which were delicious) the first items to be eaten were the bangers and patties. (You can’t take the BBQ out of an Aussie)

There are pics of the event on our FB page and on our website. http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/2025-fremantle/

It is worth looking at the 2008 pics of our function which also was held at Freo.

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

Ian	Curwood	silvagrey@hotmail.com
Len	Bodimeade	leonbod@gmail.com
John	Nicholson

Unfortunately, I have no pics of any of these gentlemen

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects our function in the West.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of travelling with Russ Loane and talking to Rocky Freier, Hector Hart, Garry Blissenden and JJ Martin.

Russ and I are still on the road. We are in Fremantle and commence our journey South on Tuesday.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 12 October 2025

Jim Clegg’s Dedication Service

Mike Shephard will be there to represent our group. Do you want to attend?

Received this from the GI Chapel:

The Naval Association Church Service will be held in the Kuttabul Chapel on Sunday, 19^th October at 1000. The service will include a plaques dedication.

To confirm your attendance, please email Mr Bruce Kafer at the Naval Association of Australia nswsecretary@navalassoc.org.au to add your names to the list.

Function WA

There will be four choices for the main meal; we will be entertained by the 15 piece WA RAN Band; you will have two free drinks for the Meet and Greet on Thursday and the Main function on Friday, smally eats will be provided for the Meet and Greet and a BBQ for the farewell on Sunday. Name tags and a welcome bag will be available. Cost will be $120 per person plus the cost of the rabbits you ordered. Shirts are $35 and caps are $15. Please forward your payments to

Westpac

HMAS LEEUWIN 1963

BSB 032-003

Acct No. 307469

The rig for the dinner/dance in Fremantle on Friday night and the other two assemblies will be smart casual.

Visit to LEEUWIN and the PERTH Collection on Saturday 18th October 2025 has been arranged.

Surfie Richards forwarded this:

I had some interesting news last week.. Probably glad that I’m not actually going to the reunion. The cardiologist had a look at my stress test and said the following week you’ll be coming in and will be doing an angiogram on you because you’ve got five blockages and I thought wonderful, I don’t drink very much. I exercise at the gym twice a week. I walk the dog. I eat well and this is what happens so in a way just as well I’m not coming over as he was quite concerned okay? Take care.

Ian (Surfie)Richards

Happy Birthday to Sandy (1^st intake Cerberus, Grant, Tom and John. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Sandy	Wilson	aaw59973@bigpond.com
Grant	Dernedde	grabasia@hotmail.com
Tom	Shakespeare
John	Amourous	d.amourous@bigpond.com

Unfortunately I have no pics of either of these gentlemen

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects catching up with John Tant at Muswellbrook and a pic of the Navy mannequin.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available sizes XXL and XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of travelling with Russ Loane and talking to Rod Hazell, Marty Grogan, Baza Quigley, Mick Gallagher and Stewie Dewar.

Russ and I are still on the road. I am at Dongara (just south of Geraldton), arriving in Freo tomorrow.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 6 October 2025

G’day. Jim Clegg’s Dedication Ceremony. I received this from the Command Chaplain.

Hi Ron,

The Naval Association Church Service will be held in the Kuttabul Chapel on Sunday, 19^th October at 1000. The service will include a plaques dedication.

To confirm your attendance, please email Mr Bruce Kafer at the Naval Association of Australianswsecretary@navalassoc.org.au to add your names to the list.

Kind Regards,

Anelle

Do you know Dave Clifford? He lives in Proserpine area. I think Buck Rogers is one of his mates. Janine Muller knows him and has an email address where you can contact him. It is info@proserpine.rslqld.net.au

We are getting close to assembling in Fremantle. Please confirm your attendance by depositing the cost of your rabbits (if any) and your dinner to

Westpac

HMAS LEEUWIN 1963

BSB 032-003

Acct No. 307469

October 2025. For planning purposes. The rig for the dinner/dance in Fremantle on Friday night will be smart casual. Our October function details in Fremantle are contained below:

Visit to LEEUWIN and the PERTH Collection on Saturday 18th October 2025 has been arranged.

Happy Birthday to Krackers, Russ, Davo, Robin, Jim and Grant. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Bernard	Krajewsky
Russ	Nelson	outnaboutnelsons@gmail.com
Davo	Davison	gcd93814@yahoo.com.au
Robin	Mackinnon
Jim	Claypole
Grant	Dernedde	grabasia@hotmail.com

Russ with Shep in the background

Davo back row far right

No pics of Krackers, Robin, Jim or Grant.

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects catching up with John Tant at Muswellbrook and a pic of the Navy mannequin.

Still awaiting advice from the Command Chaplain on Jim Clegg’s Dedication Ceremony.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available sizes XXL and XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of travelling with Russ Loane.

Russ and I will be on the road this coming week. We have just spent 4 days in Barnhill Station, just south of Broome. Beautiful place. We are currently at Port Headland, travelling to Karatha, on our way to our function in Freo in next 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 28 September 2025

G’day. Quigs and his crew had a meeting last week in the West to further planning towards our function in October.

There will be four choices for the main meal, we will be entertained by the WA RAN Band, you will have two free drinks for the Meet and Greet on Thursday and the Main function on Friday, smally eats will be provided for the Meet and Greet and a BBQ for the farewell on Sunday. Name tags and a welcome bag will be available. Cost will be $120 per person plus the cost of the rabbits you ordered. Shirts are $35 and caps are $15. Please forward your payments to

Westpac

HMAS LEEUWIN 1963

BSB 032-003

Acct No. 307469

October 2025. For planning purposes. The rig for the dinner/dance in Fremantle on Friday night will be smart casual. Our October function details in Fremantle are contained below:

Minutes of the most recent meeting:

MEETING MINUTES

6/7th Intake JR’s Reunion 2025

CHAIRED BY BARRIE QUIGLEY

DATE:

14 Sep 2025

IN ATTENDANCE

TIME:

1430

LOCATION:

Bicton-Fremantle RSL Sub Branch

APPOLOGIES

Shirley & Darky

Barrie “Quigs” Quigley, Greg “Bungy” Williams, Stewart “Stewie” Dewer, Rod Hazell, Ron “Spike” Jones

TRANSPORT

As there were only 10 people requiring transport to Fridays Gala Dinner, the committee decided that there was no need to proceed with the hiring of bus and everyone shall make their own way to the Swan Yacht Club.

WINE

Not everyone indicated that they would like a bottle of wine with the Reunion Logo. The committee decided that they would purchase the wine and that way everyone will receive a bottle of wine with compliments of the committee.

CLOTHING and ANCILLARIES

Name Tags - $8.00ea

Polo Shirts - $35.00ea

Caps - $15.00ea

Wine – Donated

BBQ - $6.00 per head

MEET & GREET – Thursday 16th October

Bicton/Fremantle RSL Sub Branch commencing at 1400

Smally Eats provided

Bar will be open

GALA DINNER – Swan Yacht Club – Friday 17^th October

Arrive 1800 for 1900 commencement for dinner. Upstairs venue (there is a lift)

SILVER BUFFET PACKAGE - 4 HOT MAINS

Grass fed Bolar Beef with Yorkshire Pudding and Horseradish

Beef Stroganoff with Button Mushrooms and Sour Cream

Baked Barramundi with Dill and Lime Sauce

Chicken Breast with Puttanesca Sauce and Olives

2 SIDE DISHES

Seasoned Roast Potatoes

Steamed Mixed Vegetables 3 SALADS

Cos Lettuce with Croutons, Parmesan, Bacon and Ceasar Dressing

Olives, Fetta, Cucumber, Tomatoes, Red Onion and Herb Dressing

Fresh Basil, Sundried Tomatoes, Olives and Mayo

2 DESSERTS

Pavlova with Seasonal Fruit and Whipped Cream

Fresh Fruit Salad

BBQ – Sunday 19th October

Bicton/Fremantle RSL Sub Branch commencing at 1200.

Steaks, Bangers and Salads provided.

Bar will be open

Band will be performing

NAME TAGS

Spike has purchased 70 name tags which was the original number of attendees. Unused name tags will be held for Ron Giveen to use for future reunions.

LEEUWIN BARRACKS

Visit to LEEUWIN on Saturday 18th October 2025 has been arranged. Stewie has 31 Names and timings will be provided at the Meet & Greet.

RAN BAND

Band will be present and playing during the night under the direction of the Bandmaster CPOMUSN Volker Schoeler.

Meeting Ended 1530

Terry Dack forwarded this to our group who will be in WA in mid October:

G’day Ron

The Terracotta Warriors are on display in Perth museum while the reunion is happening before and after.

You have to book and it costs $25.00 concession.

All info is available on Perth museum web page.

Just thought some of the mob might like to know .

Seaya

Terry

Darky Rowland

Kev’s Cancer Journey update

Saturday 13^th September 2025:

Only now, after a very harrowing time trying to cope with the effects of chemo and radiation on my body, can I reflect on my next phase.

I’ve completed 7 chemo and 35 radiation treatments, finishing on 9^th September. On Monday 8^th, I admitted myself to hospital feeling completely drained and unable to eat and drink. I wound up on a drip; took 4 bags of saline to give me some sense of normality. Hollywood Hospital wanted to hold me for one more day, but hospitals and I don’t get along.

I was told the recovery period after treatment, is for a start quite difficult. They are spot on. My biggest problem is having no taste. Strangely, I can smell the food, but the taste is non-existent. Sweet things taste salty, and on top of all that my throat is and will remain painful for some time to come. Pain relief comes in the form of Fentanyl patches and liquid Oxycodone. All this helps, of course, but I’ve lost 6-7kg and am fighting not to lose any more weight. Protein drinks, Sustagen in everything, soggy food (remember I’ve no taste). My only luxury is the occasional fish and chips.

The way ahead at this point is a couple of phone reviews based on blood tests for the next 2 weeks, a review by my oncologist in 6 weeks, followed by a visit to my ENT specialist; at the end of which a body scan will determine was the whole exercise a success or not? Yeah!!!

Happy Birthday to Vic, Mick and our host in the west Baza. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Vic	Dzodz	vicdzodz@hotmail.com
Mick	Roberts	ecmickroberts@gmail.com
Barry	Quigley	quigs1@bigpond.com

Mick Roberts with Bill Vass (LEEUWIN Ship’s Company)

Mick Roberts and Bill Vass

Barry Quigley 2^nd from left with Bryan Stapley, Les and Hoges when we had our function in Canberra. This is the cover pic of our FB page.

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects catching up with John Tant at Muswellbrook and a pic of the Navy mannequin.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available sizes XXL and XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of travelling with Russ Loane. Talking to Jeff Dunn and Mick Gallagher and Baz Quigley. Received SMS’ from Doug Wilson.

Russ and I will be on the road this coming week. We are at Kununurra, travelling to Fitzroy Crossing tomorrow (Sunday), on our way to our function in Freo in October.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 21 September 2025

G’day. Quigs and his crew had a meeting last week in the West to further planning towards our function in October.

There will be four choices for the main meal, we will be entertained by the WA RAN Band, you will have two free drinks for the Meet and Greet and the Main function, smally eats will be provided for the Meet and Greet and a BBQ for the farewell on Sunday. Name tags and a welcome bag will be available. Cost will be $120 per person. Please forward your payments to

Westpac

HMAS LEEUWIN 1963

BSB 032-003

Acct No. 307469

October 2025. For planning purposes. The rig for the dinner/dance in Fremantle will be smart casual. Our October function details in Fremantle are contained here:

Terry Dack forwarded this to our group who will be in WA in mid October:

G’day Ron

The terracotta warriors are on display in Perth museum while the reunion is happening before and after.

You have to book and it costs $25.00 concession.

All info is available on Perth museum web page.

Just thought some of the mob might like to know .

Seaya

Terry

Happy Birthday to Mick, Greg, Jeff, Russ, Harold, Selwyn and Rick The first four mentioned are scheduled to meet each other at our October function. Four out of four – what a coincidence. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Mick	Gallagher	mick_gallagher@bigpond.com
Greg	Williams	mwi46648@bigpond.net.au
Jeff	Dunn	dsscullenbay@optusnet.com.au
Russ	Dale	russjoydale@hotmail.com
Harold	Hunt
Selwyn	Trott
Rick	Avey	ricklea2@outlook.com

Mick at our function in Adelaide

Mick Gallagher

No pic of Greg,

Jeff on left with Butts catching up on the Gold Coast

In Ulverstone Tasmania - Russ Dale left with Joy, Bongo at the window, Jo and Tom on the right

No pic of Harold or Selwyn

Rick Avey on right with Lew Smith

Lew Smith and Rick Avey

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects catching up with John Tant at Muswellbrook and a pic of the Navy mannequin.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available sizes XXL and XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of travelling with Russ Loane. Talking to Baz Quigley, Bruce Eddes and Steve Power and we tried to contact Doug Wilson. Received SMS’ from Macca and Mike Hogan. Received emails from Roger Collins, Terry Dack, Trevor Elias who is with his wife on tour in Malta, and Schubes.

Russ and I will be on the road this coming week. We are at Mataranka, Katherine tomorrow (Monday), on our way to our function in Freo in October.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 14 September 2025

G’day. James Carrol forwarded this recently: In the Queensland RSL News received yesterday under the “Last Post”, it was reported the passing of William SMITH R94122 of the Bulimba District Sub Branch.

John Grenfel responded by forwarded this:

There is an ex-chief victualler named Brian Love who lives in the same lifestyle village as me in Bendigo. He remembers William Smith as they were both abs at waterhen together and lived at Johnie’s in 1968. He can’t remember where he got posted to. He said he is the only sailor from PNG that he knew. He said William rated himself as a boxer.

Good luck

John Grenfell

Does anybody else remember Brian William Duance

From his widow:-

I am the widow of Brian William DUANCE - 94009.

I am hoping there may be someone who enlisted around the same time as Brian in the 1960's that may be able to help.

Brian and I met at HMAS CERBERUS whilst we were both undergoing training as RO'S.

We married and sadly be passed away whilst serving on HMAS DERWENT.

I was wondering if anyone may have a class photo or anything else that would give both myself and Brian’s family a little insight to serving at HMAS LEEUWIN or there after.

I wait in anticipation of a reply.

I found your contact details onHMAS LEEUWIN 6 & 7 INTAKES web page -where I contacted you some years ago, to advise of Brian’s passing.

Yours faithfully

Janine DUANCE/ now MULLER

By Ed. We have received one response from Dave Hanlon. Can anybody else help?

Quigs and his crew had a meeting today in the West to further planning towards our function in October. Russ Dale has asked me what the costs will be for the functions. Will let everybody know when I know.

October 2025. For planning purposes. The rig for the dinner/dance in Fremantle will be smart casual. Our October function details in Fremantle are contained here:

Happy Birthday to Bill, Roger, Bob, Terry Bruce, Bob, Jim Darryl and Irish. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Bill	Chapman	wchappo@ozemail.com.au
Roger	Collins	Rogercollins1333@gmail.com
Bob	Dearden	no address
Terry	King	no address
Bruce	Oliver
Bob	Pollard	bob_pollard@hotmail.com
Jim	Hammond
Darryl	Walker
Irish	O'Leary	noelsue@westnet.com.au

Roger Collins on right with my travelling companion Russ Loane

Bob Pollard BR 5 from the left

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects catching up with John Tant at Muswellbrook and a pic of the Navy mannequin.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available sizes XXL and XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

Thanks to all of you who responded to our demise at Cameron Corner last weekend due to rain. This situation dragged on until Friday when we escaped.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of travelling with Russ Loane.

Russ and I will be on the road this coming week. We are at Chareville on our way to our function in Freo in October.

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

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Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 10 September 2025

G’day.    James Carrol forwarded this:   In the Queensland RSL News received yesterday under the “Last Post”, it was reported the passing of William SMITH R94122 of the Bulimba District Sub Branch.

Smouch was born in Kent UK 22JUN47 and joined the RAN in the 7^th Intake of Junior Recruits 4JUL63 in Brisbane. This is where it gets interesting and sad, Prior to enlistment he was living in Port Moresby PNG and later on, his father was imprisoned in Port Moresby for the murder of his mother. After graduating from LEEUWIN, he was posted to SYDNEY as an ORDWTR and from there to CERBERUS for his Writers Course. I was running parallel with him. In May 1965 he failed his course and was recategorized as a Victualler.   I lost contact with him after that until about 1978 when I came across him living in the area across the Brisbane River from MORETON. He was working at the Brisbane Fish Markets. After a while I lost contact with him again.

Remember: If it’s flooded, forget it!

James

Fair winds and following seas Smouch. Smouch was one of the blokes I tried to find but could not find his correct address.

Russ Loane, John, Ron and myself are on the road. Well almost, we are currently in jail, imprisoned within Cameron Corner as all roads are closed due to the rain and the boggy conditions – we are not sure when the roads will reopen. We were lucky today to find somebody who would share their Skylink with us. We are back online.

Does anybody remember Brian William Duance

From his widow:-
I am the widow of Brian William DUANCE - 94009.
I am hoping there may be someone who enlisted around the same time as Brian in the 1960's that may be able to help.
Brian and I met at HMAS CERBERUS whilst we were both undergoing training as RO'S.
We married and sadly be passed away whilst serving on HMAS DERWENT.
I was wondering if anyone may have a class photo or anything else that would give both myself and Brian’s family a little insight to serving at HMAS LEEUWIN or there after.
I wait in anticipation of a reply.
I found your contact details on HMAS LEEUWIN 6 & 7 INTAKES web page - where I contacted you some years ago, to advise of Brian’s passing.
Yours faithfully
Janine DUANCE/ now MULLER
By Ed. I have been through my collection but cannot help. Can you? Anything at all you can give will be appreciated. A story or a pic or both, whatever will be a great help.

October 2025. For planning purposes. The rig for the dinner/dance in Fremantle will be smart casual. Our October function details in Fremantle are contained here:

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Happy Birthday to Norm, Peter, Max, Spook, Ian Ken, Paul and Don.    Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Norm	Friebe	nhfriebe@bigpond.com
Peter	Taudevin
Max	Cechner
Chris	Neville
Ian	Cunningham
Ken	Scarisbrick	Ken@BeaumontDesigns.com
Paul	Finch
Don	Campbell

Norm sitting far right bottom row. With him are Ken Railton (dcd), Nicho, Rocky and Jim.

Ken – centre row 3^rd from left

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects catching up with John Tant at Muswellbrook and a pic of the Navy mannequin.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available sizes XXL and XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of travelling with Russ Loane. Speaking to Rocky, Text with Rod Hazell and John Hatchman, Brent Balchin, Buck Rogers and Bruce Eddes. Also said g’day vide email to Bill Donald (aka Straw Broome.

Russ and I will be on the road this coming week. We are at Cameron Corner awaiting escape from the boggy roads on our way to our function in Freo in October.

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

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Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 31 August 2025

I received this email from Janine Muller aka Duance

I am the widow of Brian William DUANCE - 94009.

I am hoping there may be someone who enlisted around the same time as Brian in the 1960's that may be able to help.

Brian and I met at HMAS CERBERUS whilst we were both undergoing training as RO'S.

We married and sadly be passed away whilst serving on HMAS DERWENT.

I was wondering if anyone may have a class photo or anything else that would give both myself and Brian’s family a little insight to serving at HMAS LEEUWIN or there after.

I wait in anticipation of a reply.

I found your contact details on HMAS LEEUWIN 6 & 7 INTAKES web page - where I contacted you some years ago, to advise of Brian’s passing.

Yours faithfully

Janine DUANCE/ now MULLER

By Ed. I have been through my collection but cannot help. Can you? Anything at all you can give will be appreciated. A story or a pic or both, whatever will be a great help.

October 2025. For planning purposes. The rig for the dinner/dance in Fremantle will be smart casual. Our October function details in Fremantle are contained here:

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Happy Birthday to Doug, Darby, John, Knobby, Ally, Darryl, Combat Scribes and Jamo. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Doug	Wilson	doug.trish@live.com.au
Darby	Ashton	ourouse@bigpond.com
John	Stockings	john@jandwstockings.com.au
Trevor	Clark	trevrhon@gmail.com
Nev	Coglan	jennifty62@gmail.com
Darryl	Genrich	dvgenric@tpg.com.au
Jeff	Wake	jeffwake@westnet.com.au
Chris	Jamieson	ajammo@hotmail.com

L-R Hector, Darby and Doug

Hector Hart, Darby Ashton, Doug Wilson

Knobby and Rhonda Clark

Ally Coghlan with Buck

Ally and Buck

Cannot find pics of John Stockings, Darryl Genrich, Jeff Wake and Chris Jamieson. I am fairly sure I had pics of Jeff Wake but cannot find them.

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects our attendance at the Vietnam Veterans Ceremony at Martin Place and pics of the same ceremony from yesteryear.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available sizes XXL and XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Russ Loane, Bruce Eddes and Tassy. Text with John Hatchman and Marty Grogan. Surfie Richards, Schubes, Rod Hazell and Shep also said g’day vide email.

I will be on the road this coming week, Manning Point for two nights, then Muswellbrook, then heading toward Cameron Corner on our way to our function in Freo in October.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 24 August 2025

G’day. Very quiet week.

Good to see Mick, Mike and Hatch on Monday. Four of us turned up for the Vietnam Veterans Ceremony at Martin Place on Monday. Pics are on our FB page. The weather was pretty ordinary, which is why we are in the entrance of a building taking shelter.

For planning purposes. The rig for the dinner/dance will be smart casual. Our October function details in Fremantle are contained here:

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

Dave

Haining

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects our attendance at the Vietnam Veterans Ceremony at Martin Place and pics of the same ceremony from yesteryear.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available sizes XXL and XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Bruce Pollock. Text with John Hatchman, Marty Grogan, Quigs, Brent Balchin and Mike Hogan. Met up with Mick Gallagher, Shep and John Hatchman. Surfie Richards, Schubes, Rod Hazell and Shep also said g’day vide email.

I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 17 August 2025

G’day. Shep, Hatch, Mick Gallagher, I think Spook and Hoges also will be there. Tom and Val are on their way to the UK so will miss the event. We will meet at Martin Place for the ceremony, around 1030 and then adjourn to a nearby club for lunch in Barrack St. Not sure whether Bongo is going to attend.

Our October function details in Fremantle are here:

Happy Birthday to John, Tony, Tom, Pony, Don, Les and Nifty Nev. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Jan	Klich	jjklich@gmail.com.au
Tony	Gysen	agysen@hotmail.com
Tom	Coulson
Michael	Moore	ponymoore75@hotmail.com
Don	Nicholson
Les	Barclay	lbar16963@bigpond.com
Nev	Thomas	unicom05@bigpond.net.au

John Klich on right with me at a Friday dance.

No pic’s of Tony, Tom, Pony or Don.

Les, at our Canberra reunion with Bryan, Quigs and Hoges

Nifty Nev on the right with Mal and Barry (good pic this one)

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects Brent Balchin receiving his LEEUWIN 63 EXJR of the Year pin.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Russ Loane, Tom Houldsworth, Bruce Eddes and JJ Martin. Russ Dale and Ras Rasmussen said g’day vide email.

I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 10 August 2025

G’day. Another week of bloody rain for us on the east coast. I was told today we can expect larger floods in the next three years than what we experienced earlier this year. Does anybody know where the Ark is being built?

Who wants to catch up on Vietnam Veterans Day on 18 August? That is Monday week. Meet at Martin Place for the ceremony, probably around 1030 and then adjourn to a nearby club for lunch. Shep, Hatch, Mick Gallagher and I will be there.

John Hatchman has been sourcing for our group and spouse/partners an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’. This is a self input publication which can include patient information, patient medications, medical conditions and service providers.

All you need to do is fill it out, leave it on your fridge and if anything happens to you at home the Ambo’s can just pick up a ‘diary’ of everything medical about you. It may save your life. A couple of you have taken up this offer. I certainly will have one on my fridge.

We intend to distribute them in Fremantle in October. All those who would like to use this facility, please let me know and I will forward to you after October.

Our October function details in Fremantle are here:

Happy Birthday to Dooley, Dinky and Steve. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Garry	Brown
Bruce	Dalton
Stephen	Sternbeck

Dooley Brown

No pics of Dinky or Steve.

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects Brent Balchin receiving his LEEUWIN 63 EXJR of the Year pin.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Marty Grogan and Russ Loane. Bongo and Darby rang and left messages. Moot Sutton and Surfie Richards, Mal Ritchie, Bob Stupple, Mick Gallagher and Spook Cairns said g’day vide email.

I will be in Manning Point and Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 3 August 2025

G’day. We have had some really good news for the function in the West. The RAN Reserve Band is confirmed. Bring your dancing shoes. I recall on the occasions we have had the RAN Bands in the past and they have been sensational. A marvelous achievement by our Function team in the West led by Quigs.

We intend to distribute them in Fremantle in October. All those who would like to use this facility, please let me know and I will forward to you after October.

Darky Rowland’s prognosis has caused interest and support for him. Thanks to all who contacted him and wished him well and shared similar experiences.

Who wants to catch up on Vietnam Veterans Day on 18 August? This year, the anniversary falls on a Monday. Was thinking we could meet at Martin Place for the ceremony, probably around 1030 (have to check on that closer to the day) and then adjourn to a nearby club for lunch. Shep, Hatch and I will be there. (If I have missed anybody please let me know.)

Thanks to those responding to our request for confirmation of rabbits. We are now up to 90% of responses.

This is our Programme for our function in October:

Thursday 16^th– Meet and Greet at Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club

Friday 17^th– Gala Dinner at Swan Yacht Club

Saturday 18^th– Free day

Sunday 19^th– Barbeque at Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club

Times and costs are still in progress.

Do you want to attend the Meet and Greet? Cost TBA Yes No

Do you want to purchase a polo shirt for the function? $35.00 Size Yes - No

Do you want to purchase a cap with logo? $18.00 Yes -No

Do you want bus transport for the Friday Night Dinner? Cost TBA Yes - No

Do you want to attend the Friday night dinner at Swan Yacht Club? Yes - No

Parking Available

Do you want to visit LEEUWIN on Saturday? Yes – No - Self drive

Do you want to attend the Sunday BBQ Farewell? Cost TBA - Yes -No

Our October function details in Fremantle are here:

If you have a pic of yourself, particularly if you like it, could you please send it to me? I would prefer it if it were with one of our functions or during the time you were in the circus, but happy if you prefer a civie pic. I would like to publish one for your birthday pics. Thanks to those that are sending them to me.

Happy Birthday to Barry, Errol, Ron and Phil. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Barry	Parker	yyandamurra@bigpond.com
Errol	Delaney	erroldel@tpg.com.au
Ron	Lockwood	rgeary5@bigpond.com
Phil	Longdon	phillipplongdon@gmail .com

No pics of Errol, Ron or Phil – send one to me boys.

Barry Parker with Hoss Potter (dcd) on his left.

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects Brent Balchin receiving his LEEUWIN 63 EXJR of the Year pin.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Russ Loane and Brent Balchin.

I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 27 July 2025

G’day. John Hatchman has been sourcing for our group and spouse/partners an ‘Emergency Medical Information Book’. This is a self input publication which can include patient information, patient medications, medical conditions and service providers.

All you need to do is fill it out, leave it on your fridge and if anything happens to you at home the Ambo’s can just pick up a ‘diary’ of everything medical about you. It may save your life.

We intend distributing them in Fremantle in October. All those who would like to use this facility please let me know and I will forward to you.

Shirley Rowland has forwarded this report on Darky who has asked it to be viewed by all. It is my melancholy duty to publish it.

My Cancer Journey (so far)

It’s not easy to accept you have cancer, particularly if you have had an active and adventurous lifestyle. I’m ex-military (Navy), joined up in 1963 as a young schoolboy aged 15 ½ years when you were legally able to do so (now the age is 18).

I served for 23 years. Looking back, I was a smoker when no one said it was bad for you. I smoked until 1984 (21 years), stopping on a bet with a work colleague, and have not touched a cigarette since (a total of 40 years as a non-smoker).

In 2024, after I had a fish bone lodge in my throat, I found it difficult to swallow and noticed a change in my voice (both red herrings, as it turned out).

In June 2025, dissatisfied with my GP of 20+ years, I sought a second opinion and was referred to an ENT specialist. He inserted a scope through my nose and took 20 seconds to say I had throat cancer (on the voice box). I was very hoarse by this time.

Very quickly I was booked in for a biopsy, and CT and PET scans. The biopsy was done, followed by the PET scan to see if the cancer had spread to any other parts of the body. This was new to me – I was hooked up to a machine for over an hour in a very cold room and was told not to move at all. Then it was into the PET scanner which photo’d my entire body (I was pretty glad when it all ended).

Next came phone calls and emails from the various clinics, for chemotherapy and another for radiation treatment.

The shock continues – 35 days of radiation (not including weekends) and once-weekly doses of chemo for 7 weeks.

The books on the after-effects are not good reading but they at least give some idea of the bad and worst-case scenarios.

I’m still in shock – I’ve just started the treatments (22 July 2025). Then comes the recovery period – 6 weeks – where they see if it all has worked. (mid-October).

I’m hoping that I can enjoy Xmas and get to use my brand-new caravan.

Fingers crossed,

Kev Rowland

Quigs has received positive news about acquiring the Navy Band for the dinner dance on Friday at the Swan Yacht Club. Their availability is not completely confirmed but it looks good for us. This is our Programme for our function in October:

Thursday 16^th– Meet and Greet at Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club

Friday 17^th– Gala Dinner at Swan Yacht Club

Saturday 18^th– Free day

Sunday 19^th– Barbeque at Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club

Times and costs are still in progress.

Do you want to attend the Meet and Greet? Cost TBA Yes No

Do you want to purchase a polo shirt for the function? $35.00 Size Yes - No

Do you want to purchase a cap with logo? $18.00 Yes -No

Do you want bus transport for the Friday Night Dinner? Cost TBA Yes - No

Do you want to attend the Friday night dinner at Swan Yacht Club? Yes - No

Parking Available

Do you want to visit LEEUWIN on Saturday? Yes – No - Self drive

Do you want to attend the Sunday BBQ Farewell? Cost TBA - Yes -No

Our October function details in Fremantle are here:

Happy Birthday to Rob, Hector, Stewie, Dennis, John, John Alan and Roger. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating it with your family and mates.

Rob	Cavanagh	robcavanagh17@gmail.com
Hector	Hart	hector.c.hart@gmail.com
Stewart	Dewar	doonix93@gmail.com
Dennis	Elliot	dennis_elliott@bigpond.com
John	Ryder
John	Kean
Alan	McManus
Roger	Williams	rognell12@gmail.com

Unfortunately, no pics for Dennis Elliot, John Ryder, John Kean, Alan McManus and Roger Williams.

Rob Cavanagh

Stewie Dewar FR 3^rd from left ‘LJR Dewar’

Hector Hart

Hector

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects Schubes on the road.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Russ Loane, Wally Cook, John Hatchman and Brent Balchin.

I will be in Sydney and Ulverstone this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 20 July 2025

G’day. During the week a darling of our generation passed away, she was 87, I recall on MELBOURNE’s SRE every night at sea in 64 the operators would play ‘Goodnight Sweetheart’. I admit I thought she was the best. Her obituary, thanks to Ward Hack is contained in the Attachment.

Our committee in Fremantle are having another meeting today, Sunday 20 July. I expect to receive some correspondence during the week to forward on to you.

This is our Programme for the Function

Thursday 16^th– Meet and Greet at Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club

Friday 17^th– Gala Dinner at Swan Yacht Club

Saturday 18^th– Free day

Sunday 19^th– Barbeque at Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club

Times and costs are still in progress.

Do you want to attend the Meet and Greet? Cost TBA Yes No

Do you want to purchase a polo shirt for the function? $35.00 Size Yes - No

Do you want to purchase a cap with logo? $18.00 Yes -No

Do you want bus transport for the Friday Night Dinner? Cost TBA Yes - No

Do you want to attend the Friday night dinner at Swan Yacht Club? Yes - No

Parking Available

Do you want to visit LEEUWIN on Saturday? Yes – No - Self drive

Do you want to attend the Sunday BBQ Farewell? Cost TBA - Yes -No

Our October function details in Fremantle are here:

Happy Birthday to Steve, Max, Boong, Joe, Ross and Nev. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating with your family and mates.

Steve	Hinch
Max	Borthwick
Boong	Franklin	philfrank46@gmail.com
Joe	Rados
Ross	Gowers	sailorvampire@msn.com
Nev	Jorgensen

Unfortunately only two pics – Boong Franklin (centre) with Hector and another.

Hector, Boong

Nev Jorgensen 3^rd from left BR

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects Schubes on the road.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Quigs, Bungy (Greg) Williams, Jeff Dunn, Wayne Butterfield, Rod Hazell and Bruce Eddes.

I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 13 July 2025

G’day. There are some very interesting articles in the Attachment this week. Thanks to all of you who forward them to me.

Who wants to catch up on Vietnam Veterans Day on 18 August? This year the anniversary falls on a Monday. Was thinking we could meet at Martin Place for the ceremony, probably around 1030 (have to check on that closer to the day) and then adjourn to a nearby club for lunch. Shep and I will be there.

Only less than 33% have forwarded their orders for the October function. Filling it out and forwarding it will help our West Australian brothers and sisters to ascertain your wishes.

If you have lost the ‘order form’ hit the link below. Details of our October function in Fremantle are here:

If you have a pic of yourself, particularly if you like it, could you please send it to me? I would prefer it if it were with one of our functions or during the time you were in the circus, but equally happy if you prefer a civie pic. I would like to publish one for your birthday pics. Thanks to those that are sending them to me.

Happy Birthday to Neil, Butts, Sarge, Trevor and Tug. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating with your family and mates.

Neil	Gibbons
Wayne	Butterfield	wbutterfield46@gmail.com
Chris	Sargent	cjs924@hotmail.com
Trevor	Elias	trevor.elias@optusnet.com.au
Jim	Wilson	vickihw24@gmail.com

Butts with Jeff Dunn in 2023 at the Gold Coast

Sarge – top pic - 2^nd row first left

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects Schubes on the road.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I didn’t have the pleasure of speaking to anybody from our group, we were in NZ.

I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 6 July 2025

G’day. Who wants to catch up on Vietnam Veterans Day on 18 August? This year the anniversary falls on a Monday. Was thinking we could meet at Martin Place for the ceremony, probably around 1030 (have to check on that closer to the day) and then adjourn to a nearby club for lunch.

Only less than 33% have forwarded their orders for the October function. Filling it out and forwarding it will help our West Australian brothers and sisters to ascertain your wishes.

If you have lost the ‘order form’ hit the link below. Details of our October function in Fremantle are here:

If you have a pic of yourself, particularly if you like it, could you please send it to me? I would prefer it if it were with one of our functions or during the time you were in the circus, but equally happy if you prefer a civie pic. I would like to publish one for your birthday pics.

Happy Birthday to Kev, Neil, Bob and Henry. 6^th intake baby celebrates his 78^th birthday this week. Hope you all enjoy your special day, celebrating with your family and mates.

Kev	Smith	kevsem@bigpond.net.au
Neil	Gibbons
Bob	Scharper	robert.scharper@bigpond.com
Henry	Overmars

Kev Smith BR Far right (as are his politics lol)

Our most recent post on our FB Page reflects Schubes on the road.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Knocker Whyte, Wally Cook, Bruce Eddes and we dropped in to say G’day to Doug and Trish Wilson on the way back from Manning Point. The low ended up not affecting our shack there. Thanks to those for their kind words and messages of support.

I will be in Hamilton, NZ, with grandkids playing hockey this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 29 June 2025

G’day, A quiet week for me, picked up my new car and am now in Manning Point doing a little to resurrect our shack after the flood.

There has not been a rush to complete the order form for the October function. Filling it out and forwarding it will help our West Australian brothers and sisters to ascertain your wishes.

If you have lost the ‘order form’ hit the link below. Details of our October function in Fremantle are here:

If you have a pic of yourself, particularly if you like it, could you please send it to me? I would prefer it if it were with one of our functions or during the time you were in the circus, but equally happy if you prefer a civie pic. I would like to publish one for your birthday pics.

Happy Birthday to Pie, Russ and Allen. 6^th intake baby celebrates his 78^th birthday this week. Hope you all enjoy your special day celebrating with your family and mates.

Pie	Pieda	piedah3@gmail.com
Russ	Loane	russl47@bigpond.com
Allen	Kirkman

Pie at the Gold Coast reunion. FR far right.

Ross Fullarton, Max Lampo, Tom Kinross, Ken Railton, Bongo, Terry Rogers, Peewee, Pie

Russ and Roger recently caught up on the Gold Coast.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects Russ Loane and Roger Collins catching up on the Gold Coast recently.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Russ Loane, Ray Sandford, Schubes and a missed call from Jeff Dunn.

I will be in Manning Point and Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 22 June 2025

G’day, We lost one of our stalwarts and most popular brothers recently. Tank Evans funeral service was held on Thursday. There was a little confusion about the venue. Knocker Whyte reports the service was a testament to Tanks life and was appreciated by all who attended. Smooth seas and following winds Tank, RIP old mate.

There has been more feedback on my submission with respect to the demise of Naval Historical Collections; this is very encouraging. Ray Sandford, Immediate Past President of the Queensland Naval Association, is now involved and is vigorously prosecuting the cause. He has forwarded emails to Naval Association Executives and also branches of the Association. I have also received support from the WRANS Association for one and other authorities within the Ex Services organisation. Thank you also for your support.

Talking of Ray Sandford, he has forwarded me a presentation given by him and his team on preparing for ‘End of life’. Hatch is going to be the main man putting this together so we can disseminate to you as Ray’s presentation was a PowerPoint one.. Thanks Hatch.

If you have a pic of yourself, particularly if you like it, could you please send it to me? I would prefer it if it were with one of our functions or during the time you were in the circus, but equally happy if you prefer a civie pic. I would like to publish one for your birthday pics.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Happy Birthday to Bill, Chris, Lindsay, John, Spook, Moose, Richard and Billy. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Bill	Smith	moniqueelliott73@hotmail.com
Chris	Bayly	myalla99@hotmail.com
Lindsay	Stiles
John	Law	johnllaw@hotmail.com
Dave(Spook)	Cairns	catzndogz47@gmail.com
Ron (Moose)	Mitchell	evrondale@gmail.com
Richard	Leitch
William (Billy)	Bacon	bill_bacon_4@hotmail.com

John Law Back Row 1^st left

Bill Smith Middle Row 4^th from left

Spook on the water, during our trip to the vineyard just outside Mildura

spook Cairns

Bill Bacon on left with Dooley Brown

There has not been a rush to complete the order form for the October function. Filling it out and forwarding it will help our West Australian brothers and sisters to ascertain your wishes.

If you have lost the ‘order form’ hit the link below. Details of our October function in Fremantle are here:

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our little get-together in Cairns.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Knocker Whyte, Barry Andrew, Ray Sandford, Rocky Freier, Phil Clements and Brent Balchin.

I will be in Sydney this coming week. My car will be ready to picked up on Tuesday. Waiting on a tow bar to be fitted then up to Manning Point to refurbish our shack. This time with furniture and stuff from Vinnies.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 15 June 2025

G’day, One week to go before the shortest day of the year for us fortunate to live in this great land. Every day for six months after next Sunday the day is longer. Beauty.

A small group of us had a catch-up in Cairns on Tuesday last. Tom and Val Houldsworth, James Carroll, George Pike and I had a good yarn and a nice meal. Unfortunately, Annie Oakley was unavailable as Jerry was in the process of being discharged from hospital. Speedy recovery and best wishes Jerry. Bill Waldock and John Maschke were also unavailable.

Ross Muller mentioned about the quality of the birthday pics which I have been inserting are pretty poor. This could be because he has a bigpond extension to his email address. All bigpond addresses from me, go through the web. This is because I do not have a bigpond account and Telstra objects to me using there clients in mailouts. If you have a bigpond account and would like to receive a better copy of the pics please let me know. I can transfer a small number to email accounts.

If you have a pic of yourself, particularly if you like it, could you please send it to me? I would prefer it if it were with one of our functions or during the time you were in the circus, but equally happy if you prefer a civie pic. I would like to publish one for your birthday pics.

There has been more feedback on my submission with respect to the demise of Naval Historical Collections; this is very encouraging. I have received support from the WRANS Association for one and other authorities within the Ex Services organisation. Thank you also for your support.

Happy Birthday to Mal, Missy, Ron, Dave and Gordon. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Mal	Chatfield	robandmal129@gmail.com
John	Miscamble	lubaandjohn@outlook.com
Ron	Carrol	roncarrol@optusnet.com.au
Dave	Rhook
Gordon	Stringer	gstringer47@gmail.com

Mal and Ally

Missy on the right at our function in 2023 at the Gold Coast.

Missy and Tug Wilson

Kim, Perry, UK and Ron on the right

Kim Daw and Ron Carroll

Gordon

Gordon Stringer

I could not find any pics of Dave Rhook – I would like to have no UK in the dialogue - see the note above re pics of yourself.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

There has not been a rush to complete the order form for the October function. Filling it out and forwarding it will help our West Australian brothers and sisters to ascertain your wishes.

Details of our October function including the ‘order form’ in Fremantle are here:

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our little get-together in Cairns.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of catching up with the boys and girls in Cairns and spoke to Ray Sandford, Brent Balchin, Bill Waldock, Blue Langridge, and Annie Oakley.

I will be in Sydney this coming week. My car was written off due to the flood and I am awaiting a replacement.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 8 June 2025

G’day, For those who are in the Cairns area and want to catch up for lunch and a chat. Be at the Balaclava Hotel at 1200ish this Tuesday. James Carroll, George Pike, Bill Waldock, Annie Oakley, Tom and Val Houldsworth and I will be there. John and Lil Maschke cannot make it.

Tuesday last at Rockers was a success. We presented 4 EXJR of the Year pins to Spook, Hoges, Hatch and myself. We conducted a service for the US Sailors lost on EVANS on 3 June 1969. Pics are on our FB page. We also enjoyed our get-together over lunch.

If you have a pic of yourself, particularly if you like it, could you please send it to me? I would prefer it if it were with one of our functions or during the time you were in the circus, but equally happy if you prefer a civvie pic. I would like to publish one for your birthday pics.

Details of our October function in Fremantle are here:

There has been some feedback on my submission in respect of the demise of Naval Historical Collections. I thank you for your support. Additionally the Director of Sea Power has been in contact with me inviting me to tour the storage facility at Banksmeadow. Additionally, my sub-branch are supporting the submission and intend progressing with it.

Happy Birthday to Tony, Surfie, Nick, Sydn, Peter, Geoff and Buck. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Tony	Bath	ynot13@bigpond.com
Ian	Richards	ianrichards8@bigpond.com
Nick	Bryant	captainduchess@gmail.com
Sid	Hooper	janbrianhooper@gmail.com
Peter	Craker	peter.craker@bigpond.com
Geoff	Harte
Terry	Rogers	buckandbligh@bigpond.com

Nick Bryant 2^nd from left Middle Row

Peter Craker 2^nd from left Front Row

Buck Rogers with George Pike

I could not find any pics of Tony Bath, Surfie Richards, Syd Hooper and Geoff Harte – see the note above re pics of yourself.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of presentation of EXJR of the Year pins to John Hatchman, Mike Hogan, Spook Cairns and me plus pics of us commemorating the lives of the 74 sailors lost in EVANS in June 1969.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of catching up with Disco and Deano in Kairi prior to their overseas trip and speaking to Macca, Bruce Eddes Annie Oakley Rod Hazell, James Carroll and Jaffa.

I will be in Atherton, Far North Queensland this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 1 June 2025

G’day, Welcome to winter. We have returned to Sydney after cleaning up as much as we could at Manning Point. Will return there when the place has dried out, get furniture (2^nd hand) to refurnish the place and I get another vehicle to carry the furniture there; basically in that order.

Don’t forget we have our get together this Tuesday at Rockers commencing at 1200ish. John Hatchman, Mike Hogan, Spook Carins and I are starters. Apologies from Shep, Mick Gallagher, Jingles and Lesley Irwin. We will present 4 EXJR of the Year pins and do a service for the US Sailors lost on EVANS on 3 June 1969. I will have some pics for our FB page.

Could you please do me a favour? If you have a pic of yourself, particularly if you like it, could you please send it to me? I would prefer it if it were with one of our functions or during the time you were in the circus, but equally happy if you prefer a civvie pic. I would like to publish one for your birthday pics.

Knocker Whyte has been investigating accommodation around Fremantle and has come up with a winner. The Fremantle Village Caravan Park will offer a 10% discount for LEEUWIN 63 people. Just click on the URL under to get the details of this deal.

Happy Birthday to Dave, Rass, JT, Ron, Bongo and Sandy. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Dave	Staines	yccc@dodo.com.au
Doug	Rasmussen	dras7236@bigpond.net.au
John	Tant	laraine.tant3@bigpond.com
Ron	Pope	ronpope1947@gmail.com
Lindon	Dean
Bongo	Di Betta	adb093@bigpond.com
Sandy	Michels	donald.ralph1@bigpond.com

Doug Rasmussen (Rass) Middle row far right

2ND PIC Ron Pope and Lindon Dean – Ron 2^nd from right back row and Lindon Middle row far right

John Tant at reunion 2023 on the Gold Coast -3rd from right BR

Bob Stupple, Wayne Chapman, John Tant, Doug Wilson, Mac, Terry Dack, Dave Quinlan, Froggy French, Schubes, Wayne Boden, Glen Forno, Russ Dale

Bongo DiBetta 2^nd from left at Husky 10 February 2023

Sandy and Rhonda Michels – 10 February 2025

I could not find a pic of Dave Staines.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Jingles Irwin, Disco Duck, Jaffa, Steve Power and Schubes.

I will be in Atherton, Far North Queensland this coming week, celebrating our Grand Final Rugby League win in 1975. How time flies.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 25 May 2025

G’day, Hope all is good at your place. Just been through the second flood in 4 years at Manning Point. Unfortunately for me, my car also didn’t fare well. Just need to wait and see what the car insurance people think. Thank you all who contacted me offering assistance and smart arse cracks. Loved them all.

Our next get-together will be on Tuesday week on 3 June at Rockers commencing at 1200ish. This day has been selected to ensure we get to catch up with each other, present the new EXJR of the Year Pins to those who are eligible, these are the ones John Hatchman has obtained and thirdly to commemorate the lives lost when MELBOURNE and EVANS were involved in a collision in 1969. John Hatchman, Mike Hogan and I are starters. Please let me know if you intend to show up. Shep will not be there.

I have been working on restoring the value of Naval Heritage centres, read Naval Museums. I didn’t do this as I have been pretty busy with the flood. I will send out my submission separately – if you like the idea, could you please advocate with your sub-branch or any Military or Naval Association to promote the concept.

Happy Birthday to Gazz, Jack and Bob. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Garry	McGrath	coolgaz@bigpond.com
Jack	Davey	johndjack@proton.me
Bob	Clarey	annette@norannfinance.com.au

I could not find any pics of Bob.

Garry at the Gold Coast in 2003

Spike, Garry, Mick and Ken

Jack on left at a Vietnam Veterans ceremony in Sydney 2011.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Jaffa, Tassy, Russ Loane, Rocky Freier, Bruce Eddes, Steve Power, James Carroll and Spike Jones.

I will be in Manning Point this coming week cleaning up.

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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 18 May 2025

G’day, Hope all is good at your place. I am in Forster attending the programmed Matelots Bowls Carnival, unfortunately, due to the weather forecast for the next few days, we have cancelled it for this year

Our next get-together will be on 3 June at Rockers commencing at 1200ish. This day has been selected to ensure we get to catch up with each other and secondly to commemorate the lives lost when MELBOURNE and EVANS were involved in a collision in 1969. John Hatchman, Mike Hogan and I are starters. Please let me know if you intend to show up. Shep will not be there.

I have been working on restoring the value of Naval Heritage centres, read Naval Museums. I will send out my submission separately – if you like the idea, could you please advocate with your sub-branch or any Military or Naval Association to promote the concept.

Happy Birthday to Max, Doug Lindsay and Terry. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Max	Delahunty	delamars@bigpond.net.au
Doug	Heath	no address
LC	Best
Terry	Burgess	no address

Linday LC Best at LEEUWIN Back Row at left

I could not find any pics of Max, Doug or Terry.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Jaffa, Russ Loane, John Hatchman, Marty Grogan and Schubes.

Thanks to all who wished me ‘Happy Birthday’ during the week. I appreciate your words and thoughts. I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 11 May 2025

G’day, Happy Mother’s Day to all our wonderful mothers. They are the salt of the earth and deserve every accolade that is possible.

I attended the book launch on MELBOURNE at the Australian National Maritime Museum on Friday. There were three former CO’s of MELBOURNE – one joined the Navy in 1940 – Admiral Swan, plus some birdie officers as speakers. A really good afternoon. If you wish to order a book online, you need to contact the Naval Historical Society. It cost $60.

On the subject of relations, or mates, or all those who wished they had joined LEEUWIN and didn’t or couldn’t. These people are all welcome at our function in Freo in October. Currently, we have 3 ‘Friends of LEEUWIN 63’ attending. Additionally, as advised last week, could you please advise Spike Jones at forallus319@gmail.com of the preferred name you or your missus would like for your name tag?

Happy Birthday to Dave, John (our current JR of the Year), John and Mal. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Dave	Walker	no address
John	Hatchman	john.hatchman@hotmail.com
John	Hume	furballanddom2@bigpond.com
Mal	Price	no address

John Hatchmen is Middle Row 5^th from right

No pic of Dave Walker or Mal Price – do you know where either of these blokes are?

John Hume far right – attending a VOYAGER Function – also John Hatchman immediately adjacent.

Mick gallagher, Tom Houldsworth, Ron Giveen, John Hatchman, John Hume

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Jaffa, Russ Loane, Jingles Irwin, Knocker Whyte, Blue Langridge, Steve Power, Butts and Fred Howes.

Thanks to all who wished me ‘Happy Birthday’ during the week. I appreciate your words and thoughts. I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 4 May 2025

G’day, the election is over for another 3 years. Some may say ‘thanks goodness’ others will say ‘bring on 2028’. I think I am in denial.

Our next get-together will be on 3 June at Rockers commencing at 1200ish. This day has been selected to ensure we get to catch up with each other and secondly to commemorate the lives lost when MELBOURNE and EVANS were involved in a collision in 1969. Shep will not be there.

Talking about functions – for those going to the West or are in the West for the October function you will be pleased to know that new name tags have been produced. Could you please advise Spike Jones at forallus319@gmail.com of the preferred name you or your missus would like?

We are now less than 6 months away from our major function in the West. I know some of you are chasing accommodation. Fremantle is commencing Thursday, 16 October 2025. All details for our functions are contained on our website. Just click on the URL under.

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

Ron	Giveen	rugbyron1@gmail.com
Ian	Hine (McLean)
Wally	Jankiwskyj	frisky_r_we@hotmail.com
Mick	Pollock	mike.pollock@bigpond.com
Geoff	Andersen	glynhaven@gmail.com

I am Back Row 2^nd from right

No pic of Mike Pollock and despite being positive I had several of Andy Anderson I can not locate it.

Wally Jankiwskyi back row far right

Ian Hine Back Row far right

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Fred Howes, Knocker Whyte, Spike Jones, Mike Hogan and Bruce Eddes.

I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 27 April 2025

G’day, A quarter of the year is behind us already. Kids go back to school this week, ANZAC Day and Easter are in the past. Wow.

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th

anniversary of the collision with USS Frank E. Evans) Shep will not be there; and then later in the year on Monday, 18 August, for Vietnam Veterans Day, two contemporary events. Then, we head over to WA for our major function.

Happy Birthday to Wally, Bob, Kev and Charlie. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Wally	Cook	waltcook@tpg.com.au
Bob	Vitenbergs
Kev	Rowland	shirlkevrowland@gmail.com
Charlie	Russell

Wally is 3^rd from the left Centre Row

Cannot find pics of Bob or Kev

Charlie Russell Back Row 3^rd from left

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Stan Church, Disco Duck, Steve Power and Jaffa.

I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 20 April 2025

G’day, Happy Easter. Hope your plans go well for ANZAC Day. I am going to the Dee Why dawn service then march with Oscar our youngest grandson in the city. Will be a memorable day.

John Hatchman has sourced us lapel pins for EXJR of the Year presento’s. These will be presented to all our recipients of this award.

We are now 6 months away from our major function in the West. I know some of you are chasing accommodation. Fremantle is commencing Thursday, 16 October 2025. All details for our functions are contained on our website. Just click on the URL under.

Happy Birthday to Bill, Col, Jim, John, Barry and John. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Bill	Donald (Broome)	cherwill00@gmail.com
Col	Yench	colizyen@bigpond.net.au
Jim	Wynne-Markham	wynmark58@bigpond.com
John	Partington	i965wildcat@yahoo.com.au
Barry	Nichols
John	Shinn

Bill is second from right in the middle row

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to George Pike, Marty Grogan and Russ Loane; I was in contact with Barry Andrew and Jeff Dunn contacted me with a hip-pocket call.

I will be in Sydney this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/functions-and-reunions/

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 13 April 2025

G’day, Russ Loane has confirmed Henry Ptak has crossed the bar. He contacted his wife. Henry lived quite close to Russ on the Sunshine Coast. He passed away due to cancer. Fair winds and smooth seas Henry, you were one of the most liked blokes in our intake. I recall playing hockey at LEEUWIN with him, basketball at ALBATROSS with him then later, Rugby against him when he was at ALBATROSS. Another tragic loss – going too soon.

Henry 2^nd from left

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

Happy Birthday to Kev, Gordon and Rod. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Kevin	Uttley	kuttley2014@gmail.com
Gordon	Duncan	gordonduncan47@gmail.com
Rodney	Hazell	rodhazell@hotmail.com

Kev with Tom, Hatch and me – Kev not looking a day older than what he looked 40 years earlier; he is accompanied by three Yagan 2 blokes-Tom was Wylie 2

Kev Utterley, Tom Houldsworth, John Hatchman, Ron Giveen

I cannot find a pic of Rod – but did you know – Rod Hazell was selected as the outstanding JR of the 6^th intake-the shield was in the Navy Museum at GI.

Fremantle is commencing Thursday, 16 October 2025. All details for our functions are contained on our website. Just click on the URL under.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Surfie Richards, Spike (Ron) Jones, Schubes and Russ Loane.

I will be in Manning Point this coming 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=21&action=architect&tve=true

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 6 April 2025

G’day, Have been informed Henry Ptak has crossed the bar. I asked for details to confirm, but apparently, the post was withdrawn. If anybody can verify this either way, hopefully the live way, please do. You may recall many years ago I buried Bill Bacon twice, he is still living in the West. Lesson learnt.

Poolie forwarded this on Pat (Zeke) Zeganhagen:

Pat was my best mate in Kaiber 1 division. We use to spend many hrs on the grass outside the donga at night talking shit. He stood by me when we had the bully heroes trying to take us out but when we both together stood up to them they backed off. We always had each others backs on shore leave together. He was an amazing cartoon artist and would draw cartoons of PAT the Pilot, a spitfire pilot. Top bloke. Will be in my thoughts. Smooth seas Mate. Poolie.

Mal Ritchie forwarded this:

Do you know if there is going to be a service on Vampire for Vietnam Vet's Day. Also if you like music tune in to RAMFM 103.3 Goulburn Thursdays 1400-1600 and Fridays 1200-1600 for great music of all genre's presented by unbiased yours truly....streamed live with links on website.

Cheers. Mal

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

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

Jim Harris (right) at the Gold Coast

Bill Vass, Jim Harriss

James	Harris	harrisjg47@gmail.com
Trevor	Kay	precision40@hotmail.com
Bob	Pollard	bob_pollard@hotmail.com
Dave	McFarlane	demacfarlane@hotmail.com
Steve	Roberts	steve_roberts9@hotmail.com

Fremantle is commencing Thursday, 16 October 2025.

All details for our functions are contained on our website

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Surfie Richards, Spike (Ron) Jones, Schubes and Russ Loane.

I will be in Manning Point this coming 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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 30 March 2025

G’day, Pat (Zeke) Zeganhagen has crossed the bar. Zeke joined in July 1963. He chose CD as his career choice and paid off as an ABCD on 28 March 1969. He was born on 5 May 1947 and crossed the bar on 8 Oct 24. I am sure many of you know him or of him. I can recall meeting him at one of our main functions, where he had his wife and kids with him. He was very happy to be there to catch up with all of his mates. He didn’t have email access, so was only contactable by phone or snail mail. Smooth seas and favourable winds old mate. James Carroll forwarded this info.

James Carroll has figured out how Tangles Toolan was recognized as the 1000^th JR. Well done and thanks James.

In last Sunday’s Newsletter you made comment about Bruce Dalton with Personal Number R94000 not being the 1,000^th Junior Recruit instead of Tangles Toolen with Personal Number R94132.

This is my explanation. It’s all about seniority!

Charlie Wright with Personal Number R93955 was the last Personal Number allocated to the 6^th Intake in January 1963. So there are 44 enlistees to reach the 1,000th

Robert Aiberti with Personal Number R93956 was the first Personal Number allocated to the 7^th Intake in July 1963. He enlisted in Fremantle 10^th July 1963

Pat Zegenhagen with Personal Number R94154 was the last Personal Number allocated to the 7^th Intake. He enlisted in Brisbane 4^th July 1963, so he and the 50 odd (including myself and Tony Toolen) who joined up in Brisbane had 5 days seniority ahead of Robert Aiberti.

Bruce Dalton R94000 enlisted in Adelaide on 10^th July 1963 so all the Queenslanders/Northern NSW Junior Recruits who enlisted 4^th July have seniority on him.

The NSW intake enlistment date was 7^th July 1963.

The Victorian enlistment date was 9^TH July 1963.

The Tasmanian enlistment date was 8^th July 1963.

The South Australian enlistment date was 10^th July 1963

The West Australian intake enlistment date was 10^th July 1963

Seniority was everything in the Navy! You had to have a certain number of years in a rank for promotion! Bridge Cards on a RAN Ship record the name, rank and seniority of the Commanding Officers of every Ship in the RAN, so that if two ships met up, the Commanding Officers could see who was the Junior one and had to salute the other!

Someone in Canberra, must have sat down and worked out that Tangles Toolen was the one out of the 50 odd Queenslanders, who was going to be the 1,000^th Junior Recruit.

Cheers

James Carroll

R93983

PM Keys 8046970

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

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

Terry	Hume	terryhume303@bigpond.com.au
Ian	Turnbull
Fred	Howes	phred.howes@gmail.com
Peter	Robinson	peterrobinson72@hotmail.com
John	McLoughlin
Howie	Foot
Daryl	Hannant	daryl_hannant@bigpond.com

Scarcy (Fred’s mate), Fred Howes, Terry Hume, James Carroll and Annie Oakley

Fred Howes, Terry Hume, James Carroll and Annie Oakley

Speedie Hannant 2^nd from right (who are his mates)

Speedy Hannant

Eric Haggat (dcd), Trevor Lally, and Mac far right 2003

Eric Haggart, Trevor lally, Mac

Fremantle is Commencing Thursday, 16 October 2025. We have 64 starters to date. The following have indicated they are keen to attend: Rick and Lea Avey, Glen and Suzette Butler, Butts and Margaret Butterfield, Spook and Peter Cairns, Terry and Helen Dack, Russ and Joy Dale, Kim Daw, Stewie Dewar, Bongo and Jo Di Betta, Jeff and Kay Dunn, Marty and Lyn Edwards, Mick Gallagher and maybe Heather Gallagher, Ron and Bev Giveen, Marty and Janette Grogan, Rod and Karin Hazell, John and Lyn Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Fred Howes, Bristles and Lou Lassau, Russ Loane, Garry and Helen McGrath, Ross and Necia Muller, Irish and Sue O’Leary, George Pike, Bruce Pollock, Quigs and Alice Quigley, Ras and Ada Rasmussen, Roy and Sue Rigg, (Buck) Terry Rogers, Darky and Shirley Rowland, Bryan and Kay Stapley, Glenn and Jenni Summerhayes, Knocker and Marilyn Whyte, Bungy and Marge Williams. Shep and Jean are maybe’s. Others have verbally told me they are also tentative starters – if your name is not on this list, please let me know. We have two ‘friends of LEEUWIN 63 – Ron Strom and John Bensley. These two blokes are accompanying Russ Loane and me, driving around the block.

Glen Summerhayes wants to visit LEEUWIN on Saturday afternoon the 18^th October – does anybody else want to do this?

Accommodation

Hi Barrie

I am pleased to confirm your Private Page is now available at: 1963 HMAS Leeuwin Junior Recruits 6th/7th Intakes | Rydges Hotels & Resorts

Please feel free to now distribute this with your attendees and note that discounted rates will be available to book up until your event date 13 October 2025. All bookings are subject to price & availability at time of booking.

The logo request was sent off a couple of days later, so I am expecting that to be added soon as the Sydney team work through their requests.

Note: When making a booking, we recommend comparing the prices offered for the conference/event with the rate you may be able to obtain by joining the EVT loyalty program PGR (When promotions are live - there may be a better rate)

PGR is our loyalty program that is free to join and we recommend signing up to ensure you receive all the best inclusions and deals.

Please let me know if we can be of any further assistance.

Kind Regards,

Michael Henderson | Group Reservations Supervisor | Esplanade Hotel Fremantle - by Rydges

Corner Marine Terrace and Essex Street, Fremantle, WA 6160

Hotel: +61 8 9432 4000 Direct: +61 8 9432 4822

Email: Michael_Henderson@evt.com Web: www.rydges.com/fremantle

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to James Carroll, Jaffa, Pubes Hair, Russ Loane and John Hatchman.

I will be in Sydney this coming 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

https://vwma.org.au/research/Help/making-a-dedication

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 23 March 2025

G’day, Did you know you can bring anybody who has interests similar to yours to any of our gatherings/functions? Yes, you can bring your brother, sister, kids or mate and his missus. They are all welcome. They only need to have similar interests to what you have. An accommodation offer for WA is listed below.

There is a ‘Virtual Dedication site’ for all ADF and exADF personnel. Have a look.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Happy Birthday to Tangles and Allan. Hope you both enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Tony	Toolen	atoolen@bigpond.net.au
Allan	Kay	allankay@iinet.net.au

I am trying to put pics up of all the birthday boys. Some of you, unfortunately, I do not recognize. My sincere apologies. If you have a current pic of yourself – please send it to me. It is good to have and show.

Allan Kay Front Row 4^th from left

Tangles Toolan the 1000^th JR to enter LEEUWIN in July 1963 – how that is so I do not know, his official number was not 94000. We were in the grade at High School in Atherton in 1961 and 1962.

Anthony Toolan the 1000th JR being welcomed

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

Glen Summerhayes wants to visit LEEUWIN on Saturday afternoon the 18^th October – does anybody else want to do this?

Accommodation

Hi Barrie

I am pleased to confirm your Private Page is now available at: 1963 HMAS Leeuwin Junior Recruits 6th/7th Intakes | Rydges Hotels & Resorts

PGR is our loyalty program that is free to join and we recommend signing up to ensure you receive all the best inclusions and deals.

Please let me know if we can be of any further assistance.

Kind Regards,

Michael Henderson | Group Reservations Supervisor | Esplanade Hotel Fremantle - by Rydges

Corner Marine Terrace and Essex Street, Fremantle, WA 6160

Hotel: +61 8 9432 4000 Direct: +61 8 9432 4822

Email: Michael_Henderson@evt.com Web: www.rydges.com/fremantle

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available size XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Steve Power and James Carroll.

I will be in Manning Point this coming week. Yipee the bowls Pennant season is over.

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

https://vwma.org.au/research/Help/making-a-dedication

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 16 March 2025

G’day, Sid Hooper contacted me today to see how many of us are still roosting on the perch. He states he is well but had a close call as he ran out of air when he was diving around Vanuatu late last year. Welcome back Sid. Also received an email from Bristles. He and Lou may be starters for the bash in the West.

The WA function committee have had another meeting. Before you read the minutes. Did you know you can bring anybody who has interests similar to yours, to our gatherings/functions. Yes you can bring your brother, sister, kids or mate and his missus. They are all welcome. They only need to have similar interests as you have.

MINUTES of Meeting for 6/7^th Intakes JR’s Reunion 2025

Held a Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club on Sunday 9^th March 2025

Present: Barrie ‘Quigs’ Quigley, Greg ‘Bungy’ Williams, Stewart ‘Stewie’ Dewar, Rod Hazell, Kevin ‘Darky’ Rowland, Shirley Rowland, ‘Spike’ Jones.

Meeting commenced 1305, Chairperson: Barrie Quigley

Program Change: Barrie detailed the reason for program change, Gala Dinner from Saturday 18^th to Friday 17^th to avoid clash with Swan Yacht Club’s Open Day.

Program is now:

Thursday 16^th – Meet and Greet at Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club

Friday 17^th – Gala Dinner at Swan Yacht Club

Saturday 18^th – Free day

Sunday 19^th – Barbeque at Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club

Times and costs still in progress.

Accommodation: Barrie has approached Village Caravan Park, who have offered discounts as follows: Powered sites $50 reduced to $40 per night, cabins $160 reduced to $130 per night.

Esplanade Hotel is offering up to15% discount. Room prices vary; the earlier booked, the larger the discount. Booking link ‘6/7 Intake’ and ‘book by’ dates to be confirmed.

Trade Winds Hotel contacted but no response before the meeting.

Barrie will forward all information to Ron Giveen to promulgate.

Gala Dinner Menu: Brochure passed around for committee’s perusal.; Buffet chosen over seated menu, ‘Silver Buffet’ with 4 hot courses @ $80 per head (subject to negotiation).

Slush Fund: Stewart asked about a slush fund and was informed that last time Ron Giveen supplied one. Barrie to confirm with Ron the same will apply for this reunion. (This is a typo Editor lol)

Shirt Pocket Logo: Rod asked if a PFD of the bottle labels could be made available for artwork embroidery. Shirley to investigate and contact Rod re same.

Live Music/Band: Barrie has booked ‘The Band’ (who play 60-80’s music) for the Friday Gala Dinner and Sunday barbeque. An option of acquiring the navy Band for Friday dinner was discussed; to be investigated.

Name Tags: Spike presented a large plastic name tag on a lanyard as an example, with quotes from Snap Print and Quick Copy. He suggested a total of 70 be ordered, each with name and nickname, plus a few blank ‘spares’. Cost $456.14 = $7.60 each. Of two possible crests with flags, preference was indicated for ‘two ensigns’

T-Shirts: Rod asked about hoodies, everyone vetoed. Two types of polo shirt, (differences and preferences not discussed, about $2 difference in price). Cost: $80 to set up embroidery pattern. Approximately $27 per shirt to embroider, reducing for quantity. Decision taken to quote $35 per shirt to cover all costs.

HMAS Stirling Visit: This possibility was discussed, for Saturday 18^th October. Apparently bus tours no longer stop to allow disembarking. Stewart to investigate and report.

DVA Funds: Rod asked whether DVA provide funds for functions like the Reunion. Barrie to ask Ron Giveen this question.

Wine Choices: Greg asked whether the group preferred red or white wine. Consensus was one of each.

Transport: Kevin asked about transport and parking. Informed that there is plenty of parking at the Swan Yacht Club, and at McDonalds (golden arches) across the road from the RSL Club. Barrie will investigate the cost of a bus, for either Friday night or the duration of the reunion.

Payments: Barrie to liaise with Ron Giveen re details of banking and payments in/out.

Gala Dinner Time: Stewart asked what time this function will start. To be confirmed, 6pm for 7pm, ending 2359.

Next Meeting: 25^th May at 1300, at Bicton/Fremantle RSL Club.

Meeting ended 1405.

There is a ‘Virtual Dedication site’ for all ADF and exADF personnel. Have a look.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque for GI - Jim Clegg.

Happy Birthday to . Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Bill	Birt
Reg	Turnbull
Dave	Cargill	davidcargill@iinet.net.au
Billy	Hay	narellehay@hotmail.com
Ross	Muller	rossemuller@bigpond.com
Dave	Clifford

A pic of Reg Turnbull – left - with Tom and me at Dubbo a few years back.

Bill Hay – second from right at the Gold Coast 2003

BILL HAY

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Tom Houldsworth.

We will be in Sydney this coming 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

https://vwma.org.au/research/Help/making-a-dedication

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 9 March 2025

G’day, Bev and I travelled to Bendigo on Monday, returning to Sydney on Thursday for a inline hockey competition. I mentioned this last week. John Grenfell sent this:

I see that you are in Bendigo this week. I live there and I have contact with a few other Ex navy guys. It would be good to catch up if possible.

John Grenfell

7th intake. I am an ex birdie same as John Hatchman.

Chasing the grandkids around the hockey rink must have kept me busy as I didn’t check all my emails until Friday. Consequently, I missed him. Bummer, as I would have loved to catch up.

You may think I rant a little about the insertion of Dedication Plaque’s in GI Chapel. Well, when I was checking on Jim Clegg’s service, I found out about a ‘Virtual Dedication site’ for all ADF and exADF personnel. Have a look.

We have one outstanding Dedication Plaque - Jim Clegg.

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

Danny	Tiley	danny.tiley@hotmail.com
Brent	Balchin	sojourn47@bigpond.com
Neil	Duckworth	neilduckers@gmail.com
Neil	Turner	action@ntgt.com.au
Jim	Bush	toojays@outlook.com.au
Mike	Hogan	mikehogan@ozemail.com.au

I am trying to put pics up of all the birthday boys. Some of you, unfortunately, I do not recognize. My sincere apologies.

A pic of Jim Bush with his mate at the Gold Coast.

Danny Tiley enjoying the river cruise at our function in Mildura.

Toby Turner on VAMPIRE during Remembrance Day 2024

Hoges meeting the Governor of NSW at Vietnam Veterans day ceremony.

Brent during our Ulverstone function

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

Spike Jones, who is on the committee for our bash in the West in October, is on the job. He is in the process of putting a list together for name tags. Are you a potential starter who hasn’t contacted me yet?

Fremantle is Commencing Thursday, 16 October 2025. We have 60 starters to date. The following have indicated they are keen to attend: Rick and Lea Avey, Glen and Suzette Butler, Butts and Margaret Butterfield, Spook and Peter Cairns, Terry and Helen Dack, Russ and Joy Dale, Kim Daw, Stewie Dewar, Bongo and Jo Di Betta, Jeff and Kay Dunn, Marty and Lyn Edwards, Mick Gallagher and maybe Heather Gallagher, Ron and Bev Giveen, Marty and Janette Grogan, Rod and Karin Hazell, John and Lyn Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Fred Howes, Russ Loane, Garry and Helen McGrath, Ross and Necia Muller, Irish and Sue O’Leary, George Pike, Bruce Pollock, Quigs and Alice Quigley, Ras and Ada Rasmussen, Roy and Sue Rigg, (Buck) Terry Rogers, Darky and Shirley Rowland, Bryan and Kay Stapley, Glenn and Jenni Summerhayes, Knocker and Marilyn Whyte, Bungy and Marge Williams. Shep and Jean are maybe’s. Others have verbally told me they are also tentative starters – if your name is not on this list, please let me know. We have two ‘friends of LEEUWIN 63 – Ron Strom and John Bensley. These two blokes are accompanying Russ Loane and me, driving around the block.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past week, I had the pleasure of speaking to Rod Hazell and Bruce Eddes.

We will be in Sydney this coming 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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 2 March 2025

G’day, I watched Jim Clegg’s funeral service vide zoom. Besides being proud of his family, he was also proud to have been a sailor and he was proud to have done what he did when he was in the Navy.

You may not think you want a Dedication Plaque, but in many cases, your family does. Your group finances and liaises with the command Chapel on your spouse’s behalf, so give me a break, get off your bum, and please forward me your Date of Discharge and your Rank on discharge.

Happy Birthday.to Froggy, Stan, Bob, Jock, Bryan and Glen. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Warren	French	warrenfrench02@gmail.com
Stan	Church	whereschurchie@hotmail.com
Bob	Stupple	rstupple47@gmail.com
Charles	McGreggor	jock.mcgregor3@bigpond.com
Bryan	Stapley	bryan.stapley@sea-force.com.au
Glen	Washbourne	dontfretguitars27@gmail.com

A pic of the Winjan 2 group during our an early function on the Gold Coast. Birthday boy Stan Church is seen carrying the Divisional Banner. I can recognise Rob Cavanagh, Kev Smith and Wally Gawne (can you help me with the two blokes on the left of the pic

Stan Church in the centre - Birthday boyEdit your caption text here

Here we have two more birthday boys Froggy French and Bob Stupple.

and Bryan Stapley sitting with his wife Kay, Quigs and Alice. I’m not sure who has his back to the pic.

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th

anniversary of the collision with USS Frank E. Evans) and then later in the year on Monday, 18 August, for Vietnam Veterans Day, two contemporary events. Then, we head over to WA for our major function.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past two weeks, I had the pleasure of speaking to Russ Loane, Schubes, Knocker Whyte and Jaffa.

We will be in Bendigo this coming 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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 23 Febuary 2025

G’day, As advised Jim Clegg’s funeral is planned for this Wednesday 26 February in Orange. For those who wish to watch the ceremony, there is a Zoom link.

I have contacted Liz who wishes to have a dedication plaque inserted in the Garden Island Chapel. The application is in. We now need to wait on advice from the Command Chaplain on a date.

I have made this request before, but could you please forward me your Date of Discharge and your Rank on discharge? You may not think you want a Dedication Plaque, but in many cases, the family does and the fact it does not cost the family, it is an attractive option.

Our next get-together will be on 3 June (the 56^th anniversary of the collision with USS Frank E. Evans) and then later in the year on Monday, 18 August, for Vietnam Veterans Day, two contemporary events. Then, we head over to WA for our major function.

Happy Birthday.to Bob, Knocker, Garry, Pete, Les, Max, Terry and Len. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Bob	Johnson	outandabout27.sj@gmail.com
Stephen	White	sandcwhite@bigpond.com
Garry	Freak
Pete	Hartnell	peterandmarg21@gmail.com
Les	Allen
Max	Lampo	maml2981@gmail.com
Terry	Pitt	terrancejpitt@hotmail.com
Len	Jones

A pic of the transfer of the EXJR of the Year Award from Spook Cairns 2023 to John Hatchman 2024

Spook Cairns handing the EXJR of the year Shield to John Hatchman.Edit your caption text here

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

Fremantle is Commencing Thursday, 16 October 2025. We have 60 starters to date. The following have indicated they are keen to attend: Rick and Lea Avey, Glen and Suzette Butler, Butts and Margaret Butterfield, Spook and Peter Cairns, Terry and Helen Dack, Russ and Joy Dale, Kim Daw, Stewie Dewar, Bongo and Jo Di Betta, Jeff and Kay Dunn, Marty and Lyn Edwards, Mick Gallagher and maybe Heather Gallagher, Ron and Bev Giveen, Marty and Janette Grogan, Rod and Karin Hazell, John and Lyn Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Fred Howes, Russ Loane, Ross and Necia Muller, Irish and Sue O’Leary, George Pike, Bruce Pollock, Quigs and Alice Quigley, Ras and Ada Rasmussen, Roy and Sue Rigg, (Buck) Terry Rogers, Darky and Shirley Rowland, Bryan and Kay Stapley, Glenn and Jenni Summerhayes, Knocker and Marilyn Whyte, Bungy and Marge Williams. Shep and Jean are maybe’s. Others have verbally told me they are also tentative starters – if your name is not on this list, please let me know. We have two ‘friends of LEEUWIN 63 – Ron Strom and John Bensley. These two blokes are accompanying Russ Loane and me, driving around the block.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL, they `cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past two weeks, I had the pleasure of speaking to Rod Hazell, Jaffa, Marty Grogan, Jingles Irwin and Bruce Eddes,

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 16 Febuary 2025

G’day, Vale Jim Clegg, Jim passed over the bar last Tuesday after a long illness. Fair winds and smooth seas mate. Funeral details have not been made as Jim passed at home. Liz is awaiting the coroner’s advise.

She will let me know when the date is decided for onforwarding to all. Jim was in the 6^th intake, he enlisted from Melbourne. He was in Mokare Division and was a greenie.

The VOYAGER Commemoration service is over for another year. Thank’s to all who attended the events over the weekend and the breakfast on Tuesday morning. It is so satisfying to see you all committed to this contemporary event. Special thanks to those who have travelled many miles to come together. Who attended: Russ and Georgina, Schubes and Marian, Shep and Jean, Tom and Val, Hatch and Lyn, Rod Hazell (travelling from WA), Jingles and Lesley Irwin, Rhonda and Sandy, Bongo and Jo, Ray and Ros Cattermole, Spook and Peter Cairns and me. Apologies received from Barry Andrew, Mick Gallagher, Mike Hogan, Stan Church and Bill Hay.

Our next get-together should be in May (either Rockers or the Rocks) and then later in the year in August for Vietnam Veterans Day, before we head over to WA for our major function.

Happy Birthday.to Don, Allan, Spike, John, Poolie and Bob. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Don	Churchward	drchurchward16@gmail.com
Allen	Lowes
Ron	Jones	forallus@iinet.net.au
John	Rhea
Ray	Poole	poole_ray@hotmail.com
Bob	Newton

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our time at Husky.

Fremantle is Commencing Thursday, 16 October 2025. We have 60 starters to date. The following have indicated they are keen to attend: Rick and Lea Avey, Glen and Suzette Butler, Butts and Margaret Butterfield, Spook and Peter Cairns, Terry and Helen Dack, Russ and Joy Dale, Kim Daw, Stewie Dewar, Bongo and Jo Di Betta, Jeff and Kay Dunn, Marty and Lyn Edwards, Mick Gallagher and maybe Heather Gallagher, Ron and Bev Giveen, Marty and Janette Grogan, Rod and Karin Hazell, John and Lyn Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Fred Howes, Russ Loane, Ross and Necia Muller, Irish and Sue O’Leary, George Pike, Bruce Pollock, Quigs and Alice Quigley, Ras and Ada Rasmussen, Roy and Sue Rigg, (Buck) Terry Rogers, Darky and Shirley Rowland, Bryan and Kay Stapley, Glenn and Jenni Summerhayes, Knocker and Marilyn Whyte, Bungy and Marge Williams. Shep and Jean are maybe’s. Others have verbally told me they are also tentative starters – if your name is not on this list, please let me know. We have two ‘friends of LEEUWIN 63 – Ron Strom and John Bensley. These two blokes are accompanying Russ Loane and me, driving around the block.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL, they `cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the past two weeks, I had the pleasure of speaking to Rod Hazell, Shep, Greg Williams, Sandy Michels, Tom Houldsworth, Stan Church, Mick Gallagher, Jingles Irwin, Spook Cairns, Schubes, Bruce Eddes, John Hatchman and Russ Nelson.

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 9 Febuary 2025

G’day, Friday, some of us played bowls at Nowra competing for the VOYAGER Shield (Tom Houldsworth and me) and some of us also attended the Mess dinner at CRESWELL commemorating the lives of those lost in VOYAGER (John and Lyn Hatchman, Russ Nelson, Mike Shephard and me).

John and Lyn Hatchman left prior to this pic being taken.

Included in this pic is Joc. He is the immediate past President of the Mess. I served with him in SUCCESS in ’90-‘91. He was instrumental in having produced the sword located between the four of us, which is called the VOYAGER sword. It is significant as it was manufactured by Wilkinson Sword specifically to honour the spirit of those lost in VOYAGER. It contains (on the blade) all names of those lost and all salient facts of VOYAGER.

The pic under was donated to CRESWELL by your group LEEUWIN 63 several years ago. Because of renovations in CRESWELL to the main mess halls, CRESWELL needed to relocate the venue this year to the VOYAGER room. Our donated pic holds pride of place.

The commemoration service for VOYAGER will take place at VOYAGER Park in Husky tomorrow evening 10 February 2025, be there around 2030. The RSL will ensure the bar is open and will be providing finger food after the service. The. RSL do want numbers for catering purposes.

Attending Monday’s ceremony are: Russ and Georgina, Schubes and Marian, Shep and Jean, Tom and Val, Hatch and Lyn, Rod Hazell (travelling from WA), Jingles and Lesley Irwin, Rhonda and Sandy, Bill Hay, Bongo and Jo, Ray Cattermole and I will be there. Do you want to go?

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

Ron	Quetcher	pquetcher@hotmail.com
Darrel	Girvan	darrel47@outlook.com
Bruce	Pollock	brucepollock@iinet.net.au
Fred	Radley
Gerry	Bandy
Tony	Grice
Bob	Coventon
Dennis	Baxter

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects an image of Schubes and Marian at Husky.

Fremantle is Commencing Thursday, 16 October 2025. We have 60 starters to date. The following have indicated they are keen to attend: Rick and Lea Avey, Glen and Suzette Butler, Butts and Margaret Butterfield, Spook and Peter Cairns, Terry and Helen Dack, Russ and Joy Dale, Kim Daw, Stewie Dewar, Bongo and Jo Di Betta, Jeff and Kay Dunn, Marty and Lyn Edwards, Mick Gallagher and maybe Heather Gallagher, Ron and Bev Giveen, Marty and Janette Grogan, Rod and Karin Hazell, John and Lyn Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Fred Howes, Russ Loane, Ross and Necia Muller, Irish and Sue O’Leary, George Pike, Bruce Pollock, Quigs and Alice Quigley, Ras and Ada Rasmussen, Roy and Sue Rigg, (Buck) Terry Rogers, Darky and Shirley Rowland, Bryan and Kay Stapley, Glenn and Jenni Summerhayes, Knocker and Marilyn Whyte, Bungy and Marge Williams. Shep and Jean are maybe’s. Others have verbally told me they are also tentative starters – if your name is not on this list, please let me know. We have two ‘friends of LEEUWIN 63 – Ron Strom and John Bensley. These two blokes are accompanying Russ Loane and me, driving around the block.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL and 2XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the week I had the pleasure of speaking to Rod Hazell, Steve Power, John Hatchman and Russ Nelson.

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 2 Febuary 2025

G’day, This Friday, some of us will be playing in the VOYAGER Shield bowls competition at Nowra. Our Matelots Bowls Club initiated this shield to commemorate VOYAGER. Additionally, those who were in MELBOURNE in Feb 64 and who volunteered to attend the Mess Dinner at CRESWELL will also assemble there. Will have some pics next week.

Ross Muller has been in contact with Gus Melon regarding Keith Pearce. Theyare is now looking for a photo of him. I have identified he was in Kaiber 1 of the 7^th intake. He is in the middle row of the top picture underneath. Do you have a better Divisional or other picture of him we can send to Gus?

The commemoration service for VOYAGER will take place at VOYAGER Park in Husky on Monday evening 10 February 2025, be there around 2030. The RSL will ensure the bar is open and will be providing finger food after the service. The. RSL do want numbers for catering purposes.

Attending Monday’s ceremony are: Russ and Georgina, Schubes and Marian, Shep and Jean, Tom and Val, Hatch and Lyn, Rod Hazell (travelling from WA), Jingles Irwin, Rhonda and Sandy, and I will be there. Do you want to go?

Happy Birthday.to Syd, Knocker, James, Mac, Charlie and Shep. Will see Shep on Friday. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Syd	James
Derek	Whyte	derekwhyte@shoal.net.au
James	Carroll	jazzcarr@tpg.com.au
John	McCormack	mccormackjohn@gmail.com
Charlie	Wright	charliewright.cairns@gmail.com
Mike	Shephard	winewort@bigpond.net.au

Knocker and Marilyn, Rick and Lea

Shep

Charlie Wright

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our mates in Adelaide celebrating a catch-up. Pie and Ros, Fred, Jeff and Kay and the Borgo’s.

Fremantle Commencing Thursday 16 October 2025. We have 61 starters to date. The following have indicated they are keen to attend: Darby Ashton, Rick and Lea Avey, Glen and Suzette Butler, Butts and Margaret Butterfield, Spook and Peter Cairns, Terry and Helen Dack, Russ and Joy Dale, Kim Daw, Stewie Dewar, Jeff and Kay Dunn, Marty and Lyn Edwards, Mick Gallagher and maybe Heather Gallagher, Ron and Bev Giveen, Marty and Janette Grogan, Rod and Karin Hazell, John and Lyn Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Fred Howes, Russ Loane, Ross and Necia Muller, Irish and Sue O’Leary, George Pike, Bruce Pollock, Quigs and Alice Quigley, Ras and Ada Rasmussen, Roy and Sue Rigg, (Buck) Terry Rogers, Darky and Shirley Rowland, Bryan and Kay Stapley, Glenn and Jenni Summerhayes, Knocker and Marilyn Whyte, Bungy and Marge Williams. Shep and Jean are maybe’s. Others have verbally told me they are also tentative starters – if your name is not on this list please let me know. We have two ‘friends of LEEUWIN 63 – Ron Strom and John Bensley. These two blokes are accompanying Russ Loane and me driving around the block.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL and 2XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the week I had the pleasure of speaking to Rod Hazell, Steve Power, John Hatchman and Russ Nelson.

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 26 January 2025

G’day, Happy Australia Day.

Mentioned last week about Brian ‘Clockwork’ Gorringe’s email address reflecting his personal number. Brian has responded:

G’day Ron,

Had a great day with family and friends celebrating the day. With regards to my official number, on joining , my kitbag, name type, SC, etc were all spelt with C in lieu of G consequently the number was up with the Cs.

Kind regards,

Brian

Brian Gorringe

briankg93807@gmail.com

Look at the Attachment if you can recall Keith Neville Pearce from the 7^th intake.

The commemoration service for VOYAGER will take place at VOYAGER Park in Husky on Monday evening 10 February 2025. The RSL will ensure the bar is open and will be providing finger food after the service. They want numbers for catering purposes.

Happy Birthday.to Jabba and Brian Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Wladyslaw	Jablonski
Brian	Ramsay	gypsysandra2@hotmail.com

Some football pics, both Aussie Rules and Rugby

If you want a copy please let me know.

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our mates in Adelaide celebrating a catch-up. Pie and Ros, Fred, Jeff and Kay and the Borgo’s.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL and 2XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the week I had the pleasure of speaking to Russ Loane.

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 19 January 2025

G’day, Australia Day next Sunday. Hope you all enjoy it. I will be spending the day in Manning Point, enjoying everything I can about Australia.

Looking at birthday boy Brian ‘Clockwork’ Gorringe’s email address reflects his personal number. Brian surname begins with a Gor, my surname as an example begins with Giv. My personal number is 93840 which is 33 after Brian’s. Normally, the personal numbers were allocated in alphabetical order. I think Navy had somebody in Recruiting who couldn’t differentiate between a C and a G.

Happy Birthday to Clockwork Brian, Chris, Alan, Ron, Mal, Glenn, Peter, Peter, Glenn, Peter, Ian and Alan. Hope you all enjoy your special day and celebrate it with your family and mates.

Brian	Gorringe	briankg93807@gmail.com
Chris	Rowland	crandrr1@bigpond.com.au
Alan	White	wearyrover@gmail.com
Ron	Gall	kazza426@bigpond.com
Mal	Ritchie	malritj@bigpond.com
Glenn	Summerhayes	glenn.summerhayes@bigpond.com
Peter	Johnston
Peter	Morley
Glenn	Forno	glenn.forno@gmail.com
Peter	Owen	powen2@bigpond.net.au
Ian	Rogers
Alan	Smith	alan.smith25@bigpond.com

A pic of Larry Kent (middle) who passed away in December 2024.

Some pics of some of our birthday boys:

Mal Ritchie at the dances.

Brian Gorringe in the centre of the pic at the dances.

Glen Forno with his wife Kate, at our function on the Gold Coast in 2023

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our mates in Adelaide celebrating a catch-up. Pie and Ros, Fred, Jeff and Kay and the Borgo’s.

Fremantle Commencing Thursday 16 October 2025. We have 57 starters to date. The following have indicated they are keen to attend: Darby Ashton, Rick and Lea Avey, Glen and Suzette Butler, Butts and Margaret Butterfield, Spook and Peter Cairns, Terry and Helen Dack, Russ and Joy Dale, Kim Daw, Stewie Dewar, Jeff and Kay Dunn, Marty and Lyn Edwards, Mick Gallagher and maybe Heather Gallagher, Ron and Bev Giveen, Marty and Janette Grogan, Rod and Karin Hazell, John and Lyn Hatchman, Tom and Val Houldsworth, Fred Howes, Russ Loane, Ross and Necia Muller, Irish and Sue O’Leary, George Pike, Bruce Pollock, Quigs and Alice Quigley, Ras and Ada Rasmussen, Roy and Sue Rigg, (Buck) Terry Rogers, Darky and Shirley Rowland, Bryan and Kay Stapley, Glenn and Jenni Summerhayes, Knocker and Marilyn Whyte, Bungy and Marge Williams. Shep and Jean are maybe’s, along with John and Lil Maschke who are friends of LEEUWIN 63, have also indicated they may be tentative starters. Others have verbally told me they are also tentative starters – if your name is not on this list please let me know.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL and 2XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the week I had the pleasure of speaking to Steve Laing, Jingles Irwin, Annie Oakley and John Hatchman.

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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 12 January 2025

G’day, Larry Kent has passed over the bar. Mick Roberts sent a message. Details of his enlistment and his death notice are contained in the attachment.

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

Kim	Daw	kim.daw@bigpond.com
Vic	Purvey
Graham	Seabrook
Dick	Dorham	vdic@optusnet.com.au
Gerrard	McGuinness
Annie	Oakley	ijoakley1039@gmail.com
Nev	Barry	nevbarry17@gmail.com
Ron	Weekly
Jim	Stephens

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our mates in Adelaide celebrating a catch-up. Pie and Ros, Fred, Jeff and Kay and the Borgo’s.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL and 2XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the week I had the pleasure of speaking to Bruce Eddes and Schubes. We spent the last week 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

Weekly News 1963 LEEUWIN of 5 January 2025

G’day, Happy New Year.

Our 1963 EX JR of the year for 2024 is John Hatchman (2^nd from the left at a Remembrance Day assembly)

Hatch has been a mainstay of our group throughout its life, attending nearly all functions and offering support whenever it was needed. Importantly, he co-ordinated our journey down the Bereavement path. Our web page attests to this. We now have the documents and advice you need if your spouse predeceases you. We all know RSL will assist with widows, but sadly, looking after you, the exserving surviving member, doesn’t appear to be on their agenda. Congratulations Hatch for all your contributions, you are a worthy winner of our most prestigious award.

(Tiny) John Ronald Graves has left us. Tiny moved from Cabramatta NSW to Bribie Island QLD some time back. He was a member of the Bribie Island RSL Sub-Branch. James Carroll informed me – the information relating to his passing was contained in the RSL QLD quarterly publication. No date of death was given, however, there was a caveat indicating the information was correct at 21 October 2024. I have contacted Rocky Freier who is also a member of the Bribie Island RSL SB. He is going to make inquiries when the Sub Branch reopens after the Christmas break.

Talking of Rocky, he forwarded me this pic of his orchids and dragonfruit.

The commemoration service for VOYAGER will take place at VOYAGER Park in Husky on Monday evening 10 February 2025. Make your accommodation plans now if you intend to go. Attending Monday’s ceremony are: Russ and Georgina, Schubes and Marian, Shep and Jean, Tom and Val, Hatch and Lyn, Rod Hazell (travelling from WA), Jingles Irwin, Rhonda and Sandy Michels and I will be there. Do you want to go?

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

Ian	Schubert	shoeey@tpg.com.au
Terry	Dack	terry@dack.com.au
Marty	Hicks
Ray	Cattermole	pheeney@tpg.com.au

Our most recent post to our FB Page reflects images of our mates in Adelaide celebrating a catch-up. Pie and Ros, Fred, Jeff and Kay and the Borgo’s.

We have a few LEEUWIN 63 shirts available XL and 2XL, they cost $40 each plus postage which is $10. Also, there are our two free stickers.

During the week I had the pleasure of speaking to George Pike, James Carroll, Annie Oakley, John Hatchman and Rocky Freier. We spent the last week 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

http://hmas-leeuwin-1963.com/?page_id=2233

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