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29 October 2009
On 18th March 1910, Harry Houdini made the first officially recorded controlled powered flight in Australia at Diggers Rest, Victoria. The "Houdini - Centenary Air Show" is being held on Saturday 20th March 2010 to commemorate this significant achievement in Australia's aviation history. Flying displays will showcase aircraft that have played a significant role in Australian skies over the last 100 years and will feature solo displays, formations flying and aerobatics. On the ground you will be able to walk around beautifully restored aircraft and meet the pilots who fly them, look at vintage and rally cars, while the kids will be entertained with aircraft making and other activities. Come and see the displays and meet the people who make aviation what it is today, and be a part of Australia's aviation history as it enters the next 100 years." 27 August 2009
He has published a new book titled "Hurrah for the Next Man". The book details his and his two brothers' lives during the Second World War. The three of them lived in Sydney and volunteered for the RAAF, were trained as pilots and ended up in bomber command. They survived the war and only my friend is still alive. The story is gripping and well told. Anyone with an interest in WW2 RAAF personal experiences would be fascinated by this book and it's a bloody good read! I believe the RAAF Association is arranging a book launch in Hobart soon. The Authors name is Phil Davenport. "Hurrah for the Next Man". Beachcomber Press, PO Box 76, Swansea, Tasmania, 7190. ISBN Number 9780980526509. The book was published with assistance of a grant from Veterans Affairs. Regards Peter." 23 May 2009
The following is an extract from the eulogy delivered by Michelle. "Only a few woman can claim to be a Daffodilette and Mum enjoyed attending the reunions of the Daffy's, who are a group of Old Codgers, who entered the air force at the impressionable age of 15 years old". My sincere thanks, Col." 22 December 2008
You can read all about it by clicking on www.allappys.com where you can see a picture of the gorgeous Beverley, and Senator Mark Furness, and the Cheque. And you will be able to read a press release explaining the grant and its intentions. Regards to all for 2009, Peter and Bev Henson. (Check the blog, P (4x))" 21 November 2008
Barry has asked me to answer your request. . .[Reunion e-Poll] . . . He may not be able to attend but he is very much a Daffy. I also wish to thank the Nowra Daffies and their wives or partners for the welcome given to myself and Bronwyn. - Regards Rita Clarke. " 11 November 2008 - East meets West at 'Ippy'
20 July 2008
Following my last input to the web, I will now follow it up with my bit of dribble. Well the builder got it right. We actually collected the keys to the house on 16th Jun 08. It is now 20th July 2008. We are what you would say semi settled. Most things are packed away, however the stacking would not pass inspection in all areas. But we are in and comfortable. The immediate family descended on us last weekend, one from Sydney the other Melbourne, there being ten in all. It has been ten years since we have all been together at the same time, and a wonderful time was had by all. When we were younger our family gatherings were regular occurrences and very easy to cater for. However, one thing that was quite apparent at this gathering was that age has definitely taken it toll on us. We were both exhausted before they even arrived on the Friday night. The preparations for the weekend appeared to be almost insurmountable. Regardless, we somehow got there. This growing old is for the birds. When I finally finished up in business and sold the house, its timing was largely controlled by emotion. As we all know decisions made by the heart are usually disastrous. Just think about falling in love. Firstly, Val didn't really want to sell the nest, so the heels were dragging, and to top this off we also had an old cat. He finally died at nearly 20 years of age. I made a big mistake when he was at the tender age of 17 years. I took him to the vet because he was looking poorly and that maybe his time had come and the vet would probably put him to sleep. The vet said 'he is a beautiful old cat (he was a very large well proportioned Tabby and yes he had been a very beautiful and handsome animal) would you like to have him for a little longer?' Now this is where the heart took control and overruled logic. Then followed the decision made on emotion. I said 'yes, that would be lovely'. Well the vet shoots him full of steroids and yes! I then had 'Rambo' the cat for the next three years. My heart and my big mouth at the vet cost me three years of retirement time. So this silly old bugger stayed in business for a further three years and enjoyed Rambo's company at night. One good thing did come out of these extra three years. Val did a complete 180 degrees. She finally wanted to sell the house and get going on our travels. But in your sixties three years is a long time. After my later life experiences, I find that I am becoming very jealous of my remaining meaningful years. This sudden awareness has been driven home to me by our recent undertaking in building our latest and last home and all the emotional baggage that brought about this situation of home ownership and the associated paraphernalia that accompanies it. I feel that the old expression of 'anticipation is far greater than realisation' may apply in my case. The last five years of travelling and the complete freedom that has accompanied this lifestyle was nothing short of fantastic. This freedom feeling gets into your blood and it has really made its presence known to me. It's not that I don't want a house anymore, it is more to the fact that I now won't let a house and possessions and the emotions that surround these objects control any of our few remaining active years. These years are too precious and they are fast running out. I will now put the violin away. - Springer." 20 July 2008
Well one can't say that the web is overloaded with feedback from the chosen 7th. Maybe everyone thinks that they must have mind-blowing information to warrant passing it on to the mob. This certainly is not the case. I seem to remember a pretty resourceful group of blokes who were into most things and possessed a sound knowledge on things that took their interest. These extra curricular hobbies must have developed over the years and feed back on these developments would be of great interest to fellow members. Feed back on some of the following would also be of interest:-. Holiday places you have been to and your experiences there. The purchase of a particular motor vehicle and you views on this vehicle. Achievements and awards that a family member may have obtained. Your experience with a new gadget that has just come on the market, the list just goes on. This could also lead to questions regarding problems that some members may have, e.g. health issues, DVA problems etc. Also think about passing on any helpful hints that may be useful to other members. The Daffy web is there for all to enjoy. We can't enjoy it if there is nothing there to read. It needs more than just official information on its pages and as OD said recently, let's get off our collective arses and send something in. Even if it's just dribble like I sometimes send in. If you wish, you can remain anonymous with your questions or information. This document will self destruct in 10 seconds. Fondest regards to all, - Barry Hurley (Springer)" 15 June 2008
Please send my condolences to his family. - Barry Jacka (8)" 11 May 2008
02 May 2008
23 April 2008
19 December 2007
"Hi Bill, Mate, I had intended to compete in the World Surf Life Saving championships at Rostock, Germany, during July - August 2008; however that may not now eventuate due to injury. I've been fortunate enough to compete in the last 4 championships, but maybe age has caught up with me - only time will tell. The good news is that I may now be available for the get together in the Shoalhaven - one way or another I will not be home July - September 2008 . Hope to catch up with you, stay well and seasons wishes to you and your family. - Dinga Sheahan" 05 December 2007
Gathering from all the correspondence flowing through the web it appears that everyone is still in winter hibernation like me. We are currently in Moama keeping the proverbial eye on the house progress. Apart from looking at the home every day we are generally just passing time. The completion date has been put back to February 2008, not this Christmas as originally quoted. This doesn't present us with a problem because we are like snails; we have our home on our back. It also allows us to continue roaming around for a few months. Things have really started to get a move on of late. The builder informed us today that it will be at lock-up stage this week. I think the sudden spurt on is because of the large progress payment that is due at the lock-up stage in construction. The whole crew stands down in about three weeks for their Christmas vacation. I envisage he may need the money to cover wages. Four years of full time travel (120000kms) have just flown and we have only just scratched the surface of this great country of ours. We intend to keep the van in the short term because we have aspirations of having a few short holidays each year plus returning to Broome during the winter months. We were lucky enough to score a permanent site at the Cable Beach Caravan Park for June, July and August. These sites are permanently booked out years in advance. I just happened to be in the right place at the right time to get one. As I have said before there's nothing much there but it's a lovely place to be during the southern winter. We didn't get back to Broome this year due to fact that Val incurred an eye problem the week before we were due to leave the east coast (middle of May) and as a consequence of this she had to have an operation on her left eye. All has turned out fine, much to our relief. The number of people attending the 2008 reunion looks great and it's only early days yet. It must also be very heartening for Graham and Jack. I hope this short letter finds everyone in good health and fine spirits. Val and I wish one and all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year. See you at the reunion. Fond regards, Barry Hurley." 2 November 2007
The question is: What is going on? Are they just a lot of old bums, or retired monks at prayer, or maybe it's a 'short-arms' inspection (nah!), or perhaps the Buderim club has the classiest urinal in town? Only the Five Wise Men know - maybe you know them! 07 August 2007
This is the third of my five children to join the RAAF, the fourth generation in the Defence Forces, the fifth generation has my grandson Aaron currently serving in the Army. Have included a picture of Lisa on the Parade Ground at Point Cook, thought our Daffy mates might find this interesting as she is 45 years old, this is the age most [Daffodils] had departed from the RAAF. - Barrie Mansell" 17 June 2007
The cost of producing and posting DN 29 is estimated to be $133.30 (I have not received the account yet). As the Port Stephens bank account has not received the Daffy funds from Mornington to date I will continue to carry the cost until the Mornington money is transferred. The General Funds account, which is supposed to cover Daffy News costs, has a balance of $5.00 (see the financial statement) while liabilities now total $333.30. While the Reunion Float account has a balance of $762.94, the use of these funds to meet current liabilities would be contrary to current arrangements. If the money remaining in the Mornington account is not forthcoming we will need to call for donations to continue with DN 30 come December. I will be responding to Bill Arden's request for agenda items for discussion at Nowra by putting forward two proposals relating to Daffy News and our finances. We need to reach a workable consensus to get the Daffodil Group back in the black. Kevin Frost 17 June 2007" 13 June 2007
I was just going through the mustering lists to try and work out why there are always more truckies at our reunions than any other musterings. Nothing obvious springs up. Perhaps it's because they are such a STAUNCH lot. Anyway the Framies looked a little light on for numbers as we had two flights to start with. Des Parker was definitely a framie and I think Jack Ransom and Mike Warrilow may also have been. - Regards Pat P" 05 June 2007
Congratulations to you both from all the Daffies 02 June 2007
I was just checking mum's email for her, as she has just moved into her new home. I will set her PC up tomorrow hopefully, and get her back online. I love your website!! I looked at all the photos and had a laugh. I'm so glad Mum has you guys, she has us family, whether she likes it or not ...hahahahahaha Ps: She is very well, and very happy - Cris Tandy" 14 January 2007
Keep up the good work, Warm Regards - Fred" 21 December 2006
Can you recognize any of the signatures of the 'waiting' staff?" 16 December 2006
Have downloaded Daffy News, which I will read later. It looks great. Perth reunion looked good. Can't believe how young everyone is looking and I don't mean Doug or Alan! All the evidence on the "body on the bed" seems to be conclusive and I will ring Ray Ezzy personally to see how he wants to claim his prize. "The Book" - What a great publication and this is only the first edition! I am sure there are still a lot of untold stories out there. Robyn is only up to the "F's" and I can't believe how much interest she shows in all of you. What I also found interesting, was the approach that different guys took to telling about their last 50 years or so, since 1953. Some focused on work, others focused on family and others saw the funny side of things. One thing that really stood out, in a lot of the young minds, was the initial "snake" ride from Wagga railway station to the base. Nowra sounds good. As promised we will be there. I am sure we can find a couple of veterans' weeks of golf around that time in the area. Best wishes for Christmas and a happy and healthy new year. Warm regards. - Robyn and Fred" 11 December 2006
You can check it closer by saving the picture to your computer and viewing it at full size. The bod-in-the-bed or the Mango-in-the-tree has been positively identified as Dave Menzies. Is that Odie checking the knots? I recognise several Daffies there, and a couple of Pansies. It looks like 'Nobby' Burton (7) swinging, and I see (L to R): Allan Green, Fred Fortescue, Barry Clarke, Bill McAloney (6), John Burton, Ray Ezzy, Tex Guyatt, ?, ?, ?, Tom Gretton, (a Pansy), ?, Bill Murphy, Kebblewhite (6) leaning on the tree, (Pansy ?), Barry Watson ?(8), and possibly Bunny Melton assisting with the swing line." - 'Webmaster' Bill 28 November 2006
Also looking forward to seeing the numerous Perth reunion photos. - Regards to all, Dave & Bev Scott" 16 November 2006
04 October 2006
I have been thinking about you all going to the reunion, it seems no time since the last one, I do hope you all have a wonderful time and it is a great success. John was looking forward so much to being there and nothing was going to stop him. I am sure he will be there somewhere with an eye on the proceedings. I hope to be able to catch up to you sometime soon, all going well I will make it to the next reunion. Hope you have a great time, Love to all - Beth Gannell." 02 September 2006
01 September 2006
29 August 2006
29 August 2006
The only thing I know for sure is that the tree was behind Hut 230 and I can spot the stop buts and the railway line. - Regards Pat P" [A larger pic might help you but I can recognize 'Blue' Wilde on left, and by body language, Al Finnegan third left then Bob Rattenbury, then possibly Al Green in singlet (this would put the date somewhere before 1955 - I'd say early 1954, obviously summer!) and Barry Wood in togs on right. A few other haircuts are familiar too! - WMaster] 27 August 2006
What a great job you are doing, we are so lucky to have people like you, Octane (The Book) and all the others who put so much into the Reunions. Not to forget the great contribution Choppy made over the years. Warm Regards, - Fred PS. Have included a photo...If anyone can identify the body on the bed I will shout them a bottle of Red ---- I will need proof!! From memory I don't think it's a Daffy." 09 July 2006
21 August 2006
John Holder's nickname was POSS as in possum and not Puss. My recollection is that Brian ('Will') Courtney gave him that name and it came from some pommy radio show such as the Goons or similar. Their banter went something like "Kim on Possum" (meaning 'come on') to which John would reply, "Kim on Will". That lasted through to 21Sqn in 1956 and probably beyond. John was also sometimes known as 'George' which was also connected to the Possum thing, so you see John, alias George, was a possum and not a pussy cat. - Kevin" 09 August 2006
Octane will print an A4 basic flight photo for any one who would like one as a keepsake. You don't need to know what basic flight you were in, just apply by mail or email A.S.A.P. He will forward a picture with your book or by mail. Regards Peter" 08 August 2006
Incidentally Max Tandy's Essex (1927/8) had poured big-ends and we had to pour, drill & scrape in the same way as our first project with the Gipsy engine in the Tiger Moth. My team on the Merlin had to hand-lap the pistons & rings. - Brian" 09 June 2006
The price of fuel is disgusting - we need it so just get it and don't look at the price just pay it. We plan to go to Katherine and do some shopping and have haircuts then off to the Gorge. We will do the boat trip up the Gorge as the Gorge opened up again this week. Will do some walks and probably stay a couple of nights. It is funny how you catch up with people that you may have bumped into at other camp stops a few weeks ago - some of them we have seen at least three times. We are really looking forward to crossing the WA border as there are so many great places to see there. As long as we get to Perth by mid Oct for the RAAF Reunion time is our own. We will do some helicopter flights at Kununurra also leave the van in Derby and do part of the Gibb River Road taking our tent etc. I don't know how I will cope with sleeping in a tent - will worry about the crocs, snakes and other bities. Well folks hope you are all ok. Love to all - Wendy & Bob" 10 June 2006
An opportunity exists for one of our number to write a piece lauding the role of Hector Crooks for inclusion in 'AMERYLLIDACAEA'. Hec's role is legendary. He is mentioned in a number of your stories. I will stop the presses to allow the inclusion of a suitable piece. A 'RAPID RESPONSE' is required. To avoid wasted effort, the 'DAFFY WEB' could be utilised to co-ordinate your ideas. It would be a fitting tribute to a bloke that influenced the lives of many of us. After reading 57 stories you have written I recognise the ability of some to rise to this challenge! Get stuck into it. Go to the WOMBAT website on allappys.com for inspiration. - Octane." 15 May 2006
05 May 2006
For yourself and the others making the Trek across the top and on down to Perth, you certainly have been blessed with the once in a lifetime spectacle of a very lush interior from Katherine across the Kimberley to Broome and down through the Pilbara to approximately 200kms north of Carnarvon. This panorama will be at its best during July and August and will lessen after that. The cyclones that have vented their fury on the Pilbara and the Kimberley have dumped more rain this wet season than any other in living memory. Normally the average rainfall in Tom Price is 300mm per year. This season has seen one metre. Most other areas would have received a lot more. The locals are saying that this will be the best season in living memory for wild flower in WA, not to mention the lushness of the landscape. Even the cattle you see along the way are fat. However it will be drying out by October and in need of another drink. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular. The mountains that are normally red/brown in colour are now green and many shades of green at that. Everything is blooming. We came up through the Karijini National Park, staying at the local caravan park in Tom Price for four nights. During our stay at Tom Price we went on two tours. One took in the open cut Rio Tinto mine. This proved to be quite an experience ($19.00). The second took us on a full day's tour through the Karijini National park taking in a lot of the gorges. This tour was certainly worth doing it covered over 350 km. ($120.00, including morning tea and a great lunch). As expected, fuel is much dearer, but, not as dear as anticipated. Broome is $1.58. The average on the way up was around $1.61, the dearest $1.79. On average take six cents off for unleaded. If any suggestions in regard Broome to Perth would be of advantage to you let me know. Regards - Barry" 01 May 2006
I took some 8mm movies of the first final match and recently a very good friend of mine copied them to DVD. It was amazing to see the old team in action after all these years. Keep up the good work with the Web Page. Regards to you all - John Campbell" 29 April 2006
Peter is putting together a short submission on behalf of Bob Rattenbury and also Ralph Raston, both MT Fitters, both deceased. Any one who could assist him with information regarding the RAAF careers of these two Daffies are asked to please contact him immediately, if not sooner!" 06 April 2006
Checked web-site as requested and I can confirm the photo is definitely not of me. You are right about which side I part my hair on - always has been and still is the right side (fortunately I still have enough hair to part). I also don't think it is Dave Grimmond. My initial reaction to seeing the photo was that it could be one of the guys who didn't last long, but I have no idea of his name. Sorry I can't be more helpful. Regards, Dick" 21 March 2006
We should all be just as proud of our beginnings. [published with permission] 18 March 2006
Someone has to say this. Since I am now in possession of perhaps, the 'innermost thoughts', of a majority of our Squadron, 'The Magnificent Seven', I can tell you all that the RAAF Engineering Apprentice Scheme, in 1953, inducted some of the finest human beings I have ever met. The stories I will publish soon will, I am sure, make an imprint on all those who have the fortune to read them. The wider public will be amazed at the simple statements that can now be published as memoirs of those involved in the Malayan and Indo Chinese theatres during the years of conflict. That sanity prevails after reading what some of the members of our Apprentice Squadron experienced during this period can only be explained by the fact that we were brought up differently to subsequent generations. Some of course did not stay with us long enough to write their stories. We can be thankful that their partners have contributed on their behalf. I am humbled at the response of my fellow members of No 7 RAAF Engineering Apprentice Squadron. - Peter Henson." 13 March 2006
12 March 2006
01 March 2006
21 February 2006
03 February 2006
My attention has been drawn, over a few schooners, to the lodgement or intended lodgment of a 'Daffodil Archive', immediately after or during the reunion in Pt Stephens. I recall the mind-boggling array of photos lying on a table at the Pt Stephens RSL after the Dinner at which Bill Pappin bared all. Can someone, anyone, track down this bit of lost history? I recall Gus Wells saying something like, 'We should put all this stuff into an Archive'. Are these photos and a thousand other bits of 'Daffodillia' now lying in the bottom of someone's wardrobe or have they, like the records of the apprenticeship years at Forrest Hill, been taken to the dump? Or is someone sitting on them hoping to make a lot of money one day? If you've got anything to suggest, contact me, or the person holding this information, which really belongs to all of us, or get the pictures to me for inclusion in THE BOOK. It is my intention to publish at least thirty pages of pictures, as well as the ones coming in with your stories. Note: I have pictures from early days at Wagga loaned to me for publication from other Appy intakes; the support from other intakes has been superb. - Peter Henson." 28 January 2006
A friend I knew called Paul Terry had a lot of input into Albany for a few years. He built the hotel at Middleton beach, the now defunct car museum (he owned Genevieve) and he rebuilt and gifted the modern surf life saving club to the Albany Surf Club. In the early 90's he was made the Aerospatiale agent in WA. Unfortunately during subsequent helicopter training in Honolulu he lost control of a chopper and killed himself. Paul had great plans for Albany; however since his death it doesn't seem to have advanced much from when I last saw it in the early 90's. We have fitted the new Michelin truck tyres to the van. I had to take a Bex powder and have a lie down after paying the account and Val had an attack of the vapours. However, we have both recovered and we certainly feel a lot safer slipping along the highway. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Margaret River region. There was plenty to see and an abundance of fine food and wine. Naturally we visited quite a few wineries and the consequent purchases from such have pushed the van's all-up weight further into the red. The Voyager winery is a must-see-and-dine if you visit the area. It also has the most spectacular rose gardens. We indulged ourselves a little too much during our stay and evidence of this is showing a little around the middle section. Regards - Barry Hurley" [Octane's light-hearted look at a serious subject has been held over since 9 December 2005 waiting for some details from Col. At a time when most of us are looking for a quiet green paddock, knee high in clover, Col was giving something back - see some very interesting details of his achievements in RAAF to RCVP - Webmaster]
"The Lost Patrol A recent gathering of Daffodils at Pt Stephens included an invite from 'Rear Admiral' Colin Wynn, formerly a member of the RAAF and now a member of the RCVP, to join him on his 61ft twin-engined runabout for a short cruise to the islands. Being at a loose end for a few hours prior to the Daffys 'mini reunion' at the Soldiers Point Bowlo, deftly organised by Harry Horgan, I accepted. Just to be sure, to be sure, I took my brother-in-law Ed along. He's ex US Fleet Air Arm and learned to swim, military style, at an early age. I thought I was fairly safe as Col said we would be back in port, in Port, in plenty of time to make the nosh up at Soldiers Point. What an odd name for a very civil establishment. We embarked at 0800 hrs and after the usual pre-flight briefing, cast off and made for the open sea. Colin, in a most conciliatory manner enquired after my health...'Yer don't get sea sick do yer, Octane?' Well it has been known...but I digress. On the way out through the heads, the skipper of Col's Big Boat encouraged neophyte helmsmen to describe 'Williamson turns' while we observed from the boat's bridge. Now any old salt will tell you that the rich aroma of unburnt diesel fuel combined with a certain yawing motion of the vessel performing high speed turns across its wake is enough to make old salts head for fresh air! All good though and after a delightful cruise around the former gunnery and torpedo range off Pt. Stephens we returned to the jetty for a cup of char and a NAAFI bun, all ship shape and serene. It's amazing how the three years basic training we had at Forrest Hill paid off. I had to put my right hand in my pocket as we were leaving to stop myself saluting the Captain! - Octane" 16 January 2006
Today Bev and I recieved Laine Tandy's submission on Max's behalf. I don't read the submissions, yet, but Bev has made a few comments about Laine's effort which was accompanied by some photos. Bev thinks Laine deserves a 'Well Done' and judging by the weight of the envelope, so do I! Thanks Laine. Ladies and Gentlemen, the deadline draws nearer. If you are still undecided about whether or not to contribute or if you doubt your skills in the 'third estate'...whatever is he rabbiting on about?...just scrawl out a few words. We'll turn it into a story. We hope all had a great Chrissy and that the New Year is kind to you. It brought us Six inches of rain! Regards to all, Peter and Bev Henson." 07 January 2006
To my knowledge the question of partners attending (as distinct from wives) was never discussed but seemed to be accepted as a 'society norm' and I can't imagine that being an issue. We have adopted our 'Daffodil' widows as members and the same applies to their partners or husbands. Maybe now that we have a much wider and interactive forum it is time to discuss these, and similar, questions. Perhaps an alternative could be to set aside a separate day for a joint get-together, or open the initial gathering occasion at our reunions to include any local ex-appies but keep the 'special' functions exclusive? Remember, there are a lot more ex-appies at some locations than Daffies – so it could be a search and find mission on some occasions. - Bill A" 05 January 2006
Pat P" 04 January 2006
Very recently I was contacted by a Daffy member and his wife who are formulating plans to attend the Perth reunion as caravanners. There is a possibility that they will meet in Perth with an ex-appy friend and wife from an earlier appy intake, who will also be caravanners. I was asked if I thought it would possible for the friends to attend all or some of our arranged functions in Perth. I cannot recall if this subject has ever been discussed before, so I thought it would be a good idea to forward the question for discussion or comment on Daffy Web. In the past we have had other family members attend with Daffy's or widows, but does anyone have thoughts either way on the subject of appy's from other intakes attending? Regards to all, Les Ploog" 24 December 2005
This is to wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. We hope this email finds you in good health and in fine spirits. We are presently in the WA wine area of Margaret River. We have been here since the 16th December and will be on our way to Albany on the 8th January 06. It is very cold here at the moment, similar to a Sydney winter. It's the first time in two years that we have been subject to a temperature below about 20 degrees. It's Kr-Kr weather. We can't wait to get back to Broome in May 2006 for another four months. Sipping wine or what ever is your fancy on Cable Beach at sunset has to be one of the finer moments in one's life and I can't wait to experience more of it. It never gets boring. We expect to be in WA until Nov 2006. We are finding WA very much to our liking, particularly around the Geraldton area which is on the Byron Bay latitude. It would be a lovely place to live. The 4th December 05 marked the second anniversary of our departure date on this around Australia odyssey. It doesn't seem two years since we left Sydney, and to date we have only just scratched the surface. This means it's at least another twelve months before we even consider settling down and even then, travelling will occupy a large portion of our time, providing one of us doesn't fall of the perch or become incapacitated. We are giving each other a very expensive Christmas present. It is four new tyres for the van. The other day I noticed one tyre was a little flat so I inflated it. When I disconnected the compressor, the valve insert blew out (the second in two months). The tyre guy said he had not seen this happen before. Also some highs and lows on the tread were telling a tale. As the van weighs in at 3.5 tons loaded, the tyre expert recommended 10 ply Michelin truck tyres – expensive! We did have to brake rather heavily at a set of lights on our way here. I wonder if that might have created a few of the highs and lows. It was quite exciting and there was a heavy adrenalin rush for a few seconds. We also found out that the anti-locking brakes work! Merry Christmas and fondest regards, - Barry and Val (Hurley)" 22 December 2005
14 December 2005
13 December 2005 Re: Santa Daffy on the WEB
A Happy and safe Christmas and new year to all. Regards - Jim & Joyce Marriner" 09 December 2005
"1955 - Air Vice Marshal E.C.Wackett,CBE, attended a passing out parade at Forest Hill today." It was referring to US of course, I know there should have been a full column about the occasion but at least we rated a mention. Regards - Pat P" 09 December 2005
21 November 2005
[See Anecdotes...] 21 November 2005
Hi Daffies, I notice on your Daffodils site there are several references to Dan, and as he was an Armament Apprentice, we would appreciate you sharing any anecdotes you have, with us. We run our own RAAF Armament web-site www.gunnies.asn.au with an Apprentice Courses Page and Last Post Page. Here we have Dan's Page with any tributes, notices and etc, where our users can add to his history. Apprentice Courses:www.gunnies.pac.com.au/courses Last Post Page: www.gunnies.pac.com.au/deaths Dan McCann's Page: www.gunnies.pac.com.au/deaths/mccann dan We also lack a course photograph for your intake. Any help will be gratefully acknowledged regards - Bill Riley - billril@pac.com.au" [Monday, 21 November 2005 Hi Bill, Thank you for your contact about Dan 'Sago' McCann. I will post your request in the 'Feedback' section of our Daffy Web Page, and circulate it via the Daffy e-mail Net. I will also endeavour to get an Armament course photo from somewhere – if there is one left! - Bill Arden (Webmaster etc)] 10 November 2005
Could someone in our group undertake to become the Squadron contact and summarise what's left of 'Daffy NEWS' and also take some of the less libellous offerings from the Daffies website and submit to allappys? I think it's a good way to share appy experiences and freshen up the NEWS. Also worth noting, allappys is not sending paper copies to members holding e-mail addresses. Pity about that bathroom reading we used to do! - Octane." 02 November 2005 [A portion of e-mail sent to Octane from Jim Marriner - the most interesting bits are in Anecdotes. Jim is the first to submit his contribution to Octane for 'THE BOOK']
The book is a great idea, and I would like 3 copies. Unfortunately, the photos I would like to include are ensconced in storage and not accessible. So I hope this text will suffice..." [the remainder of Jim's story is in 'Anecdotes] 27 October 2005
Bill, sometime ago I wrote about something that happened to me at Wagga... I did not forward it on to you because I was unsure if I should go public on this. However 50 years have passed so I'll leave it in your hands. Regards - Barry" [the remainder of Barry's story is in 'Anecdotes] 27 October 2005
Can I get in a plug for the Qld NSW Regional reunion in January? Holiday Inn, Roma St, Brissy, 12:30 hrs start. Bring yer drinkin hat. 120 attended the last one! Also, to contact 'old mates' from other squadrons click on AllAppys and follow the squadron links. Some important welfare stuff is soon to be published on this site. - Peter Henson" 19 October 2005 [In adhering to the editorial policy adopted within this Web Site, I regretfully have to publish this statement from Bob Blyth but it is his decision, which we must respect.]
I reiterate: Effective from my letter to Mr L. Clewer last year, my resignation from 'The Daffodils'. My reasons are simple: I contributed nothing positive to the 'Daffy' organisation during my RAAF service and subsequent to the Resignation of my Commission, and I am not, nor will I be, in the foreseeable future, in a position to contribute in any way. Kindly ensure removal from future communications my identity, postal and Email addresses. Sincerely, The former 'Brickhead', and one other published and apt soubriquet." 18 October 2005
18 October 2005
I've not had this (or any other) computer very long so please excuse any cock-ups that may appear. Gary Cooper told me about the Daffies web page. I was amazed at how terrific the set up is. Pictures and music even, it's just great. The feedback comments are also very good. I've been trying to get a password to gain access to the Inner Sanctum, I've tried quite a few but none work. I've tried to contact The Webmaster but he seems to require a password too. Where have I stuffed up? To-day I happened to notice this e-mail address (it's been there all the time) so maybe someone on the end of this note can clue me up on the correct procedure. So hoping to get some good info in the near future, I extend my best regards to all Daffies and look forward to seeing all of you in Perth. - Pat Peter" 17 October 2005
Catch you later. - Don and Sandra BARRY” 16 October 2005. [See the full article in Anecdotes for more!]
After reading in "Feedback" the latest anecdotes I believe that I was either asleep most of the time I was in Wagga, or I was very naive or perhaps I was at some other place, but I can not recollect many of the stories related. Maybe my memory is failing me, however, I do recall graduating with the rest of the Daffies!...[Anecdotes] - Peter A" 14 October 2005. [See the full article in Anecdotes for more!]
13 October 2005. [See the full article in Anecdotes for more!]
I can't locate my Concise Oxford Dictionary, but another old dictionary in the house defines an 'anecdote' as follows: n. Narrative of detached incident...Anacdotes; (joc) garrulous old age. Now I wish to continue my anecdotes in the hope that (1) You can weave them into a sensible and understandable form for publication, and (2) These anecdotes from a prolixic old man will stimulate the brain cells of other surviving old men into contributing their stories. Incidentally Sir William, Garrulousness = verbal diahorrea, whilst prolixicity = written diahorrea (as you well know). But in either event, the source is an old man......[Anecdotes] - Les" 13 October 2005. [See the full article in Anecdotes for more!]
"In his entertaining story about Dan McCann, Barry Hurley referred to everybody's friend from Tumbarumba as "Look To The Front Swivelhead.....Snifter O'Carrol...[Anecdotes] - Les" 10 October 2005. [See the full article in Anecdotes for more!]
I'm feeling in the mood for writing, mainly brought about by the sad news of Dan McCann and John Gannell's passing in the past months. It's funny what draws one out of an attitude of apathy, and makes you take a good look at yourself. All of a sudden you realize how fortunate it is that you are still alive, what a great life you have been fortunate enough to have lived and how lucky you were to have been a Daffy. These days they call it bonding. They didn't call it anything in the formative years we spent at Wagga. But bonding it was and little did we realise at the time how closely bonded as a group we would become. In fact it may only be now in latter life that some of us are becoming aware of this fact. Choppy summed it up at the Mooloolaba reunion when he said the Daffies are really a family, how true...[Anecdotes]" - Barry Hurley" 2 October 2005
"Hi Bill, The biggest problem I had was not knowing what I was doing, but with a little luck and a lot of Daffy ingenuity I managed to get there and now I have it in favourites. Our regards to all Daffy's and their partners. Best wishes Helen & Jack" 27 September 2005
26 September 2005
22 September 2005
19 September 2005
Regards - John Walters" 18 September 2005
17 September 2005
The weather forecast for Melbourne for Friday 9 September promised showers and possible storms, but the day turned out to be fine and overcast. About 150 people attended Holy Family Church Mt Waverley to farewell John 'Choppy' Gannell and celebrate his life. The 7th Intake was represented by John Walters, Les Holt, Ernie Moore, Brian Sheahan, Laurie Clewer, Les Ploog, Kevin & Jennifer Frost, Ian & Sieglinde Melton, Harry & Norma Devery, Pat & Judith Peter, Trevor & Margaret Polsen, and Gary & Sandra Cooper. A number of ex-appies from other intakes, and other Air Force colleagues attended, and many travelled from interstate. The Requiem Mass, at which all attendee's received a fresh daffodil, emphasised the positive aspects of John's life and constituted a fitting farewell. His talented daughters Linda and Carolyn presented appropriate music on the flute and cello. Eulogies from John's son and grandsons highlighted his attributes as a family man and Bob Bartram covered his achievements in the RAAF and later in industry. The clear message from all the speakers was that John was a leader in all aspects of his life. During the service we were given a silent moment to reflect on the 'Choppy' that we each remembered, and early images of John with drum sticks twirling would have been in the minds of many ex appies. John was buried at The Necropolis, Springvale, and now rests atop a grassy knoll among the casurina trees. The gesture of each person offering their daffodil to the grave added a poignant touch to the final farewell of a much-loved colleague and friend. It is hard to feel anything but sadness at this aspect of a funeral. However, the gathering at John and Beth's home was a happy occasion at which many old friendships were renewed and new acquaintances made. All up it was an appropriate farewell to an impressive man, and while the occasion was intrinsically sad, the good humour of the gathered family and friends must have given John's wife Beth, who gave him tremendous support in his long illness, great comfort in her loss." 17 September 2005
Congratulations on the website. It is a pleasure to read and hopefully will encourage more members to get onto the net. Regards, Les" 07 September 2005
With the passing of time a lot has been forgotten. Now, with the loss of so many since 1993 and recently, Graham "Gus" Wells, Dan "Sago" McCann and John "Choppy" Gannell, many of the identities within the Squadron have gone (though there are still more). Because of this, I have decided to reprint the article I wrote for the first Daffy NEWS about the all-apprentice Wagga reunion of 1993, particularly about the Daffies. When you've read these articles, don't forget to come back! Incidentally, the dining night incident Les Holt mentioned - I was at that dining-in night. The band wasn't any ordinary one; it was the Hawthorn Pipe Band, Australian champions! Robin and I, and others, gave the bandsmen a lift home and proceeded to help them enjoy a quencher at their club rooms – all we needed after a dining-in! Remember that Bob Bartram (ex-appy mate of Choppy's, and fellow watch-winder) was the PMC so there was no trouble. - Bill A" 06 September 2005
06 September 2005
Thanks for your e-mail. Choppy never did get to see the web pages, but I would read them out to him on the phone. He especially appreciated John Walters's comments and was entertained by Barry Hurley's stories, as we all were. You have done a great thing in generating the web page and I like all of the others congratulate you on your professionalism. It is a tremendous advancement over the old 'snail mail' system and will no doubt generate lots of spontaneous interaction. For example, Barry's stories have already given me the urge to hook up the rig and "hit the road again", but then I have only recently returned from four weeks in Tasmania and another four weeks over around Coffin Bay, Venus Bay, and Streaky Bay. I would have kept going west but an appointment with a Cardiologist in Brisbane beckoned. Consequently, I have just come out of the Wesley Hospital after an Angiogram and now a future appointment with a Cardiac Surgeon looms. Bugger! Will no doubt see you (and many others) at the funeral. At this stage the family have not finalized arrangements re time and place. Spoke to Bob Bartram and asked him to hone his considerable speaking skills, so we will have the best man on the job on the day. Schmidt will be staying at the Kings Way Motel (somewhere near Park St), and Ernie Moore and I will camp there also. Regards - Les Holt 04 September 2005
"Bill, on behalf of the Daffodils ... - Les Holt 04 September 2005
"25th May 2005 As I See It- Well!! What a reunion that was at Mornington! I missed the first day but was really impressed with the bus trip through Geelong to Point Cook and the RAAF Museum. They really have made that museum something to see!! Even caught Dave Jones sneaking a reminiscent 'ride' in his beloved C130A! The whole complex is a credit to all those volunteer trades people and is worthy of a visit if you are in the area. The dinner was very good and the accommodation was first class. A word about the presentation of my appreciation award - I was so surprised that I was stuck for words! (WHAT?) I think that my response was that I received far more from being a part of our group than what I have contributed. I guess I did say it all with those few words on the night of the dinner. The feelings I have when we all get together are very important to me. I regard all of us as special people, each with his own walk through life, having been subjected to the Wagga three year training cycle. We may have learnt our respective trades but more importantly, we learnt to exist as a bunch of kids who would make lifelong friendships that would mean just that. You can't buy these qualities anywhere. As the years roll on and we find another grey hair or a bald scalp, we should reflect on our early days and remember the first person we met at Wagga and the group we kicked around with on graduation day. May I take this opportunity to thank all of those people who have written or contacted me since I 'divorced' my left leg below the knee. I now lay waiting for things to heal before I go to the 'muscle mechanics' at Caulfield Rehabilitation Centre and learn to walk on one leg with a prosthesis on the other. Just give me 10 schooners and I'll show them how to walk legless!!! Thinking of you all - Choppy G " 04 September 2005
29 August 2005
28 August 2005
28 August 2005
The news about Sago is sad, makes one feel very mortal and very determined to live the remainder of life too the full. The deceased list is going to increase rapidly from here on, let's hope we can stay off that list for some years. We have kept on hearing about the lousy weather in Perth - hail storms, winds and temperatures down to one degree. We both said why go there when it is a lovely 30 degrees in Broome. We have had perfect days until last Wednesday when it rained. Our next door neighbour had some friends arrive last Tuesday night. Against our neighbour's advice and despite a bad weather forecast with rain, come what may, the visitor wanted to go to the beach in the 4x4, up past the nudies. They went before high tide (a nine metre one at the moment), and of course it rained so heavily they had to sit in the vehicle for hours waiting for the tide to recede before they could get back. They had to keep the windows up because of the rain. Apparently the windows fogged up and everything inside became quite damp. Our neighbour was not impressed. Out time here in Broome comes to an end at the end of September. However this date may have to be extended as I have to fly back to Sydney for a few weeks sometime in the next month. I'm trying to arrange a number of things to be done at the same time, hence the uncertainty of our departure date from Broome. Val is remaining behind guarding the fort against the invading hoard (thieves), and looking after the outside fridge/freezer and furniture. We are still doing the same old things here, surfing, sunbathing, relaxing (doing nothing) and looking at all the nudies. Correction: looking at some of the nudies, things have improved lately with the arrival of a few young backpacker girls. The older stock have reached their use by date and leave a bit to be desired. The men outnumber the women five to one and we reckon most of the men are gay. Most of these guys must have been behind the door when doodles were handed out. Val's getting a little carried away with the Broome life style and the so called warm weather. I don't believe it's that great, because the temperature has dropped lately, normally it's 30 degrees, but over the last few days it's been down to 28-29 and the water temperature has dropped by at least half a degree. This almost puts one off going to the beach! The last couple of days have been quite cold. It's been down to a chilly 25 degrees. I have almost been forced to put on a sloppy joe. Another problem here is the fact that we have drinks most afternoons with nibbles followed by dinner with wine. Also a couple of times a week we have to put up with get-togethers with the neighbours who don't mind the odd drop or two. Having to do these things creates quite a bit of stress and we sometimes have to resort to having a nap in the afternoon, luckily, this has enabled us to cope with these almost compulsory barbaric rituals. I'll have to see the Dr, because I sometimes have a tongue in cheek problem. During our get together with other travellers you hear some very funny stories. This one came from a lovely couple who live near Lancelin in WA. Joe's backing his van (19') onto a site. Joe recounts. As usual, Bev's standing where I can't see her in the rear mirrors. I have repeatedly told her, if you can't see the rear vision side mirrors, I can't see you. However as there is no yelling or mad waving of arms and hands Joe continues backing onto the site. Suddenly, the vehicle and van come to a sudden stop. I realised says Joe that I have backed into something. He jumps out of the car and runs to the back of the van to find out that he has backed into a tree, and Bev is just standing there. Bev as quick as a flash says, “I knew you were going to do that”. Story two. John, our next door neighbour here was telling us about trying to get on to a site in Katherine. This particular incident I can relate to, because, we have done a similar thing. (John tows a 23' Windsor Crown).After backing and filling for a while he's finding that an already bad situation is rapidly getting worse. John then decides that because he's towing such a long rig and in an effort to keep the yelling and screaming to a minimum, he will carry out a full circuit and come in again. This he did and again was unsuccessful. Then he did another circuit and another. John said he lost count of the number of times he went around. Some time later when he was setting up, an old guy came up and said “Gee! A lot of these Windsor Crowns have come in today.” I'd like to add more but duty calls. I'm going to have a beer with the guy next door. Fondest regards - Barry and Val" 26 August 2005
25 August 2005
Sorry it's taken me so long to get back to you Bill. I've been flat out doing nothing. Presently Val and I are staying in Broome on our odyssey around Australia. Broome is a strange place, not much here at first glance, but the longer you stay the better it gets. We arrived in mid May for six weeks but we have extended this until the end of September before continuing down the coast, around the bottom section of WA and back up to Broome towards the end of May 2006 where we are once again booked in until October. We intend to fly down to Perth for the reunion. In regard to your suggestion about the trek across the top of Oz I think it's a great idea. I would allow plenty of time for the journey as there's so much to see. I know that quite a few of the guys have been around Oz, some more than once. I'm just an apprentice at this stage so I can't offer much advice. Others I know have travelled the highways and byways so you should receive plenty of good input. Our journey started in Dec 2003. We initially went down the NSW coast. During our stay at Merimbula we went to a movie one afternoon. As we came in the back glass door from the car park I ran into Eric Hickman. He said he rarely goes to the afternoon movies and never stands in that spot (makes you wonder). We thoroughly enjoyed the time we had with Eric and Helen. We continued across Vic staying on the coast as far as Robe before zigzagging back across Vic. At Moama at the end of April 2004 my eldest son rang me from Sydney to see if I could look after his business for three weeks because he had to have a shoulder operation. Bugger! Three weeks turned into three and a half months. We left Sydney on the 17th of September 2004. We headed north getting as far as Yeppoon. At this stage we had been fortunate enough to catch up and spend time with John O'Donnell and Heather in Brisbane and Dick and Joan Bourne in Bargara. While in Rockhampton I rang Judy Mcnaught and she took me to visit Jungle at the nursing home. Judy walked through the door and said "I've brought Springhead Hurley to see you! Do you remember him? Yeah, yeah, yeah was the enthusiastic reply. As you all know Jungle gave me my nick name, time shortened it to Springer. We spent a pleasant hour with Jungle reminiscing. We headed south once again through Sydney to Albury along the mighty Murray to Adelaide then up the centre to Darwin and on to Broome and visited nearly all places in-between. To date we have been on the road for 21 months. If you take away the lost time in Sydney you can see that we haven't got very far. We feel full time travel could last another 2 years before we settle some where warm. We intend to keep the 4x4 and van and travel for 3-5 months of the year. I can certainly recommend this life style. We are fortunate in that we don't have anything left behind to worry about. We sold our home and business and put everything into storage. We do have 2 sons and four grandchildren. Plenty of phone calls seem to suffice at the moment. If we fly home a couple of times a year that should do the trick. I hope this finds you all in good health. Forget the wealth it's not much good to us now. Fondest regards - Barry " 24 August 2005
24 August 2005
23 August 2005
21 August 2005
21 August 2005
When he says I can't access that, recommend he goes to the local Vets Affairs, Neighbour Centre or Library and con some good looking young chick into opening our website for him! Do it today and make some other Daffy happy and enthusiastic! Who knows, the next change in technology could leave any one of us disenfrachised! Make today your personal DAFFODIL DAY! - Regards to all Octane." 20 August 2005
18 August 2005 [after access problem to Daffy WEB - Ed.]
16 August 2005
15 August 2005
15 August 2005
13 August 2005
[ Great attitude Bill! We need more Daffies trying to help locate their mates ] 13 August 2005
13 August 2005
11 August 2005
10 August 2005
03 August 2005
03 August 2005
29 July 2005
[ The music was an inspiration! (couldn't resist :-). You can turn it OFF, or plug some earphones in and leave them OFF, or press STOP on your browser once it is loaded, or - I could remove it. Those using Mozilla Browsers may not get the music. - Bill ] 29 July 2005
28 July 2005
28 July 2005
28 July 2005
28 July 2005
26 July 2005
23 July 2005 - Prototype Daffy WEB Page launched 23 July 2005
23 July 2005
23 July 2005
22 July 2005
22 July 2005
22 July 2005
22 July 2005
19 July 2005
19 July 2005
19 July 2005
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