december 2010
DESCRIPTION
RAAFVVA Quarterly Newsletter: December 2010TRANSCRIPT
RAAF Vietnam Veterans
Association (Vic)
ABN 34 550 672 219
NEWSLETTER
December 2010 www.raafvva.org.au
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RAAFVVA NEWSLETTER
The official journal of the RAAF Vietnam Veterans Association (Vic), a Sub-Branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Victorian Branch Incorporated.
(Reg. No. A0029247G. ABN 34 750 672 219)
Patron: Air Vice Marshal E. M. Weller AM
PRESIDENT Lee Scully Phone (03) 9827-8313
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Nick LeRay-Meyer AM Phone (03) 9386-6961
VICE PRESIDENT Gareth Davis Phone (03) 9878-7940
SECRETARY Rick Holmes PO Box 462
Ascot Vale Vic 3032
Phone (03) 9317-7304
TREASURER Maree Jongkryg PO Box 73
Melton Vic 3337
Phone (03) 9743-1273
WELFARE OFFICER Lee Scully Phone (03) 9827-8313
ASST SEC/MEMBERSHIP Gareth Davis Phone (03) 9878-7940
COMMITTEE MEMBER Alan White Phone (03) 9598-1007
COMMITTEE MEMBER Pieter Jongkryg Phone (03) 9743-1273
COMMITTEE MEMBER Bob Brackin Phone (03) 5261-2630
COMMITTEE MEMBER Andy Lapins Phone (03) 9511-4693
COMMITTEE MEMBER Geoff Rose Phone (03) 9372-7709
COMMITTEE MEMBER Neil Morgan Phone (03) 9687-8871
WEBMASTER Anthony (Tony) Pahl OAM [email protected] SPECIAL PROJECTS Nick LeRay-Meyer AM Phone (03) 9386-6961
SPECIAL PROJECTS Graeme Dodd OAM Phone (03) 9852-1653
RAAF REGIONAL ADVOCACY, WELFARE AND PENSIONS OFFICERS
Bill Wiltshire (Advocacy, Pensions & Welfare) Melton Phone (03) 9746-9582
Ron McMullen (Pensions & Welfare - information only) Laverton Phone (03) 9746-9582
David Taffe (Welfare & Pensions) Kilmore Phone (03) 5782-2779
Audrey Elliott (Welfare & Pensions) Wallan Phone (03) 5783-1567
Lee and Ellen Scully (Welfare) Melbourne Metro Area Phone (03) 9827-8313
Gill Coughlan (Welfare) Melbourne Area Phone 040 850 3986
Andy Lapins (Welfare) Melbourne Area Phone (03) 9511-4693
VETERANS’ CENTRES SUPPORTED BY RAAFVVA
Western Suburbs Veterans and Services Centre Phone (03) 9746-9582 Fax (03) 9746-9583
Melbourne Veterans and Services Centre Phone (03) 9282-3518 Fax (03) 9282-7854
DISCLAIMER
The material, comments and/or extracts of articles appearing in the “RAAF VIETNAM VETERANS NEWSLETTER” is of a
general nature only and neither purports to be, nor is intended to be, advice on any particular matter. No person should act on the
basis of any material contained in the NEWSLETTER without considering, and if necessary, taking appropriate professional advice
upon their circumstances. The RAAFVVA Committee, the authors and publisher expressly disclaim all and any liability to any
person, in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by any such person in reliance, whether whole or partial, upon the whole or
part of the contents of the “RAAFVVA NEWSLETTER”. Any member of the RAAFVVA, or other veteran organisation or any
interested party may submit articles, letters, and advertisements for publication in the NEWSLETTER. The Committee and
Publisher reserve the right to veto any such article, letter or advertisement.
EDITOR: RAAFVVA Committee PUBLISHER: Geoff Rose
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PRESIDENT’S REPORT
With 2010 rolling ever onwards, some time for reflection on the past year is warranted. A highlight for me was the National Museum Day activities
conducted at Phillip Island on 28/11/10, during which a number of commemorative plaques were dedicated to our South Vietnamese allies and their
community; the 25th anniversary of the Victorian Branch of the VVAA, and the RAAF Vietnam plaque
placed in the Garden of Reflection. Our thanks go out to all who contributed to the Day’s success, with special mention the Museum Sub-Branch; their
Padre who gave a moving blessing; Museum Trustee; the President of the VVAA (Victoria) and the Air
Force Association, Victorian Branch.
The RAAF have the privilege of being the March Leader for the 2011 ANZAC Day March in Melbourne, and hopefully the weather will be kind and a good roll-up of
our veterans will result. Our Committee is currently actively examining what the future holds for our
Association, and in this regard it is hoped to attract some new blood to next year’s Committee. (No “Vampire” jokes please). I would encourage you to attend the 2011 Annual General Meeting on 13th February, and consider volunteering for
a position. You will find it both interesting and rewarding – not to mention receiving a “free lunch” following the AGM at the Air Force Association HQ,
Hawthorn. We have lost a few members this year, and our sympathy is extended to their
loved ones for their loss. It is important to keep an eye on your health (and bad habits) particularly over the Festive Season, so please be careful.
A review of our welfare activities is also planned for serious consideration in 2011, and if you are interested in this area of support for our members/families,
don’t be afraid to contact our Secretary. Full support for training and travel costs etc. is available for this purpose.
In conclusion, my thanks go out to our hard working Committee Team, and our Webmaster. Special mention must go to Rick Holmes, our long serving Secretary,
who carries the largest load with unfailing good humour and dedication to the job. May you all enjoy good health and cheer over the Christmas/New Year period, and stay safe and well for 2011.
Kind regards,
Lee
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NOTICE BOARD
NOTICE OF THE 2011 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
13th February 2011
The Annual General Meeting of the RAAF Vietnam Veterans Association will be held on Sunday 13th February 2011 commencing at 1400 hours. The venue is the RAAF Association Headquarters (Victorian Air Forces' Centre), 24-36 Camberwell Road, East Hawthorn, Vic 3123. Any financial member who wishes to raise an item of general business is requested to notify the Secretary prior to the AGM.
All committee positions are open for nomination from any financial member of the Association prior to 31st January 2011. Nominations for other than Executive Committee positions will be accepted up to the election of office bearers. Members may nominate themselves without having to have another member second the nomination. Nomination Forms are available from the Secretary.
A light lunch of finger food will be provided prior to the commencement of the AGM. On completion of the AGM there will be free drinks for those attending. It is a good opportunity to have a mini reunion.
AGENDA 1. Opening – ODE 2. Presidents welcome and general announcements 3. Presentation of Air Force Association Bursary Certificates 4. Attendance Register 5. Apologies 6. Acceptance of previous Minutes 7. Business arising from those Minutes 8. Financial report for year ending 31st December 2010 9. Correspondence 10. General Business
Membership report for previous year
Membership as at AGM
Badge Week Fundraising and donation recognition 11. President's Report and questions from the floor 12. Election of Office Bearers 13. Honours and Awards 14. Closure
ANNUAL RAAFVVA MEMBERSHIP FEES
Annual Membership Fees are due and payable by 1st January 2011.
YOUR RENEWAL FORM IS ENCLOSED.
Please be advised that cheques received in late December will not be banked until early January, and therefore, receipts and Membership Card will be posted during January.
When forwarding your subscription, please notify any changes to your address details, and if you have not already done so, please also advise your Email Address.
Donations (always welcome) can be included on the form and a separate receipt will be issued.
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PLEASE NOTE: CHANGE TO BURSARY APPLICATION CLOSING DATE – 31st January, 2011
The closing date has been extended to allow time for applicants to be advised of their acceptance to the course for which they are seeking bursary assistance. All else remains the same. Eligibility
The child, adopted child or grandchild of a person with operational service, or three or more
years continuous full time service, as a member of the Australian Air Force.
A stepchild or foster child is eligible, if they have resided with or been financially supported
by the veteran step parent or foster parent, for five of the last ten years.
Under the age of 25 when applying unless exceptional circumstances, related to the
veteran‟s service, exist.
Enrolled in (or planning to enrol in) any recognized educational or training course.
Any activity or representation associated with any recognized educational or training
course.
Note: 1. Applicants may apply separately or be nominated by any member of the RAAF
Vietnam Veterans Association.
2. When completing the Application Form, please ensure you advise the educational or
training course you are undertaking (or planning to undertake).
3. Previous scholarship winners are entitled to reapply.
More details, including application forms, are on the "Bursary" page of our website:
www.raafvva.org.au
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS IS NOW 31st January, 2011
NEXT MONTHLY LUNCHEON
To be held at The Duckboard Club (from 1200hrs), Wednesday 15th December.
The last chance this year to gather as a group and experience the friendship and camaraderie enjoyed by RAAFVVA members.
(Not to mention the delicious, well-priced food and drinks offered by the welcoming, pleasant and very attractive staff of the Melbourne RSL.)
AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION
VIETNAM VETERANS BURSARY 2011
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OUT AND ABOUT
Melbourne; early morning on Saturday, 2nd October 2010, the footpath and front steps of St Paul‟s Cathedral became a gathering place for long-haired, leather-clad bikies. Innocent passersby quickened their pace and extended a wide berth as they tentatively glanced at the rough, tough men, and their mean looking machines. The air was thick with anticipation. All knew in their heart that law and order in city streets was breaking down. Was it happening here? Was there something terrible a-brewing? For those who dared, a closer inspection would have revealed the leather-clad bikies to be members of the Vietnam Veterans‟ Motor Cycle Club, and the Patriots‟ Motor Cycle Club, and they were mingling and chatting with other middle-aged (senior) gentlemen, most of whom were dressed in a suit and tie. To the unaware, it was a confronting sight; however, for those gathering outside the Cathedral, there was a common, identifiable link – their Vietnam Medals.
300 people attended St Paul‟s Cathedral for a dedication ceremony for a Vietnam Commemorative Plaque, the production of which resulted from months of planning and hard work by members of the Commemorative Plaque Sub-Committee of the Geelong Sub-branch of the V.V.A. The Right Reverend Dr Mark Burton RANR conducted the service, and afterwards, invited the congregation to move towards the Plaque, located on the left side wall of the Cathedral. Long Tan veteran, Dave Sabben MG, had been invited to complete the unveiling, but prior to this, he provided a very informative history of the evolution of wartime awards, memorials and plaques.
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Presentation of RAAF Standard prior to the
Dedication Ceremony
Dave Sabben MG speaking prior to his unveiling the
Plaquue
The Right Reverend blessing the Plaque.
End of the Ceremony
RAAFVVA Attendees: Geoff Rose, Owen Preece, Nick LeRay-Meyer, Andy Lapins, Chris Hudnott,
(and Rick Holmes who took the photo)
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ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE TO POINT COOK,
AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION
VICTORIA
The Annual Pilgrimage to Point Cook continues a tradition begun over 60 years ago by members of the Australian Flying Corps Association (AFCA), which, in Victoria, later became the Australian Flying Corps Branch of the RAAFA. The AFCA contemplated a memorial over a number of years and finally settled upon the present design and chose Point Cook as its location. The memorial was given into the custody of the RAAF at a ceremony on 16 November 1938. The presentation was made by Mr A E (later Sir Albert) Chadwick and accepted by Chief of Air Staff, AVM (later AIRMSHL Sir Richard) Williams. In the late 1980s, when the number of members of the AFC Branch had fallen to the point that the Branch could no longer maintain the tradition of the Pilgrimage, alone, the then State Council of the Division of the RAAFA agreed to accept the responsibility for conducting the Pilgrimage. The Pilgrimage is held in November, as close as practicable to the anniversary of the World War 1 armistice, because its original purpose was to pay tribute to the members of the AFC who served during that conflict. The inscription on the memorial reads: “Dedicated to the glorious memory of our comrades of the Australian Flying Corps, Royal Naval Air Service, Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force who at the birth of the air service during the Great War 1914-1919 made the supreme sacrifice and whose sacred trust of imperishable honour and duty to country now given into the keeping of the Royal Australian Air Force Association”. It was not until 1973 that a bronze plaque was added to the memorial‟s base bearing the inscription: “In Memory of Members of the Royal Australian Air Force Association who served in the 1939-45 War and subsequent Wars.” In stark contrast to the blazing 40+ degree heat experienced during last year‟s pilgrimage, a forecast of inclement weather forced this year‟s ceremony indoors, to be conducted in the much more comfortable, air-conditioned environment of the Pt Cook Chapel.
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NATIONAL VIETNAM VETERANS MUSEUM – Phillip Island ‘Back to the Museum Day’ – 28th November 2010
Originally intended as an „Open Day‟ for the Museum and to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Victorian State Branch of the V.V.A., the 28th November grew to a large and very successful day of dedication and commemoration. The Victorian Vietnamese Veterans and the Vietnamese Community not only enthusiastically embraced their invitation to attend, but also requested that this occasion enable an opportunity to show appreciation, co-operation and friendship with the Australian people by dedicating three commemorative plaques of their own. The cold, grey and blustery conditions forced the planned ceremonies to be transferred from the outside area surrounding the Garden of Reflection to the slightly more protected environs of the newly erected second hanger. Australian veterans and their families huddled shoulder-to- shoulder with Vietnamese veterans and their families as an estimated 2000 people gathered for the ceremony. Again, many Vietnamese veterans proudly wore their military uniforms, and again, as Bob Elworthy noted in his address, the main difference between the two groups, is that no Australian would still be able to fit into his uniform!
A section of the large crowd, with the (yet to be restored) fuselage of Canberra A84-307 in the back ground.
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Five plaques were dedicated. First was for the 25th Anniversary of the Victorian State Branch. Three Vietnamese plaques commemorating: The sacrifice of Australian Servicemen in the defence of South Vietnam, Gratitude to the Government and People of Australia for the settlement of Vietnamese Boat People, and In Grateful recognition of the sacrifices of fallen soldiers of the Republic of South Vietnam.
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And, after the main ceremony, most of the RAAFVVA members and their guests moved to the Garden of Reflection for unveiling of a plaque „Dedicated to all Royal Australian Air Force personnel who lost their lives on operations and in honour of all who served in Vietnam‟. (Similar to the Plaque at Pt Cook.) Unfortunately, a number of members missed this ceremony because the rather cool conditions necessitated that the dedication proceed quickly. RAAFVVA President, Lee Scully, gave a short address and the Plaque was dedicated by Padre Laurie Dawson, Chaplain of the National Vietnam Veterans Museum.
RAAFVVA members at the new RAAF Vietnam Plaque in the Museum‟s Garden of Reflection.
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The following day Lee Scully presented Gary Parker, President of the Museum, a framed print of a Cessna „Bird Dog‟,that had been donated by the RAAF Forward Air Controllers‟ Association.
Of course, the weekend was not only commemoration and ceremony. A number of members and wives used the occasion to enjoy a short, relaxing holiday, and stayed a night or two, on Phillip Island. Rick Holmes booked three tables for dinner at the Cowes RSL on the Saturday night and a good time was had by all who attended.
Jill and „Snow‟ Coughlan „Chick‟ and Sue Mercieca
Lee and Ellen Scully with Gareth Davis
Maree and Pieter Jongkryg with Noela Rose
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DID YOU KNOW?
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DID YOU WORK ON THE C130 WING REPAIR PROGRAM? Graham Barnett has tirelessly pursued DVA about chemical exposure during the C130 Wing Repair Program. To progress any further he is required to collect details from as many C130 AMWKR/ASTFITT members as possible. Please help by providing answers to the questions listed below.
1. Are you a holder of a Gold Card, give major illnesses/conditions? 2. Are you the holder of a White card, what conditions covered? 3. If no card, what disease/illness/disability are you suffering from since the C130WRP? 4. What claims have DVA refused as not service related? 5. Were you involved in the Study of Health Outcomes in Aircraft Maintenance Personnel
(SHOAMP)? Your response may help out both yourself and those whom DVA have rejected. The aim is to at least obtain a Gold Card for affected personnel. Please return information to Barny at the following email address: [email protected] (Defence have admitted that we were exposed to the same or similar chemicals as the F111 DSRS, but claim minimum exposure and "open" working conditions. We will dispute this. Also DVA have broadened the range of accepted conditions.) DVA is soon to introduce a new system that is expected to drastically reduce waiting time at their offices.
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HEALTH and WELFARE
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CALLING ALL MEN AND WOMEN:
Do YOU have what it takes to change the HEALTH of YOUR COMRADES?
Have you ever thought about how you could impact the health and wellbeing of the veteran community? Do you think you have what it takes to help veterans make positive health changes in their lives?
HOW CAN I BECOME INVOLVED?
Become a volunteer! Register your interest in attending the next Men‟s Health Peer Education program by contacting the Men‟s Health co-ordinator, Rebecca Chumbley on (03) 9284-6727 or
email [email protected]
Heart Foundation says; ‘Avoid butter, avoid trans fat’.
A Heart Foundation investigation into margarine and butter has shown that butter has, on average, 20 times the trans fat levels of margarine. With popular television programs, chefs and food magazines all using butter in their recipes, there have been big increases in butter sales – up 9.3% in 2009 - and the Heart Foundation has good reason to be alarmed.
Susan Anderson, national director healthy weight – Heart Foundation said, “This news will come as a big surprise to many people who choose butter believing that it‟s „natural‟ and therefore healthier - but it simply isn‟t the case.
“Butter is mostly made of the fat that raises your bad cholesterol levels – saturated fat at around 50% and trans fat at more than 4%. Compare those figures to margarine spreads at an average of 14% and 0.2 % respectively, and margarine is clearly the healthier choice," said Ms Anderson.
Trans fat, whether manufactured or naturally occurring, is bad for the heart. Switching to margarine cuts back on the unhealthy saturated fat and trans fat, and you cut back on salt too - with butter averaging almost twice the salt of margarine.
And furthermore, on average butter contains significantly more kilojoules than margarine which doesn‟t help Australia‟s waistlines.
"The Heart Foundation is calling on cooks and chefs to switch from butter to margarine and healthy oils for the sake of Australians' health. They both perform similar functions so butter can be easily substituted for margarine when baking and oils such as canola can be used in sautéing and in mashed potatoes," said Ms Anderson.
And at home, simply swap butter for margarine, starting daily with your morning toast and sandwiches and this change alone can save almost 3 kilograms of saturated fat from your diet in a year.
With recent research revealing that Australian women have higher LDL or „bad‟ cholesterol levels than men, the Heart Foundation is urging all women to take another look at their lifestyle to ward off heart disease and making the switch to margarine is a good place to start.
NB: using avocado as a spread is a much healthier alternative to margarine or butter.
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SECRETARY'S SNIPPETS
Hi All,
Christmas again, seems to come every 6 months - not 12.
For me a great year, we lost a few members due to their passing but we have also picked up new members. Our Association is slowly going from strength to strength thanks once again to your vibrant committee.
We do need some help; it does seem to be the same old few who keep the annals of history ticking over for us. As I have asked before and I will ask again if you wish to be part of this committee or attend as an observer come along to one of our meetings which are normally held 1st Tuesday of the month at the RAAFA HQS 24- 36 Camberwell Road East Hawthorn. Your contribution is invaluable.
Due to the total lack of applicants/nominations for the position of Secretary I am obliged to continue for another year, now I understand how long it took Brendan to retire!
2011 AGM is to be held on Sunday the 13th February. Please advise me if you plan to attend for catering purposes. RAAFVVA Bursary Awards will be presented at this meeting. If you change your email address let me know as I still get many returns.
Finally to you and yours have a great Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous 2011.
Cheers!
Rick Holmes
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THE PADRE’S PAGE
The Commander’s Word
The story is told about the time Napoleon’s steed
got away from him. An alert private jumped on
his own horse and chased down the general’s
horse. When he presented the reins of the
animal to Napoleon, the ruler took them, smiled
at his willing private, and said, “Thank you,
Captain.”
The soldier’s eyes widened at what he had heard.
He then straightened, saluted. And snapped,
“Thank you, Sir!”
He immediately went to the barracks. Got his
bags. Moved into the officers’ quarters. Took
his uniform to the quartermaster and exchanged
it for that of a captain. By the general’s word,
he had become a private-turned-commissioned
officer. He didn’t argue. He didn’t shrug. He
didn’t doubt. He knew that the one who had the
power to do it had done it. And he accepted
that.
If only we would do the same. If only we would
have the faith of the private..... if only when God
Smiles and says we are saved we’d salute Him,
and live like those who have just received a gift
from the commander in chief.
The most fantastic fact of life is that Almighty God is interested in you. He loves to
receive your prayers. He loves to answer.
I pray for you: “The Lord bless you and keep you,
The Lord make His face to shine upon you,
and be gracious to you,
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you His peace.”
With all best wishes.
As ever,
(Rev) George G. Ashworth, OAM
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VALE
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
RAAF VVA MEMBER
Robin James HART
2 Sqn – Apr 64
31st October 2010
RAAF Vietnam Veteran
Rex Robert BUDD DFC 9 Sqn – May 68 to May 69
9 Sqn – Oct 69 to Jun 70
4th
November 2010
LEST WE FORGET
WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR PARTNER WHEN YOU DIE? (The following very important article is transcribed, with kind permission, from the July 2010 edition of the ACT Defence Widows Support Group Magazine.) The ACT Defence Widows' Support Group (DWSG) provides support to Defence widows and widowers, particularly the newly bereaved. The Group contacts them after the funeral of their partner. Experience has shown that the same problems seem to surface repeatedly and that forward planning would help relieve some of the burden and distress to your partner when death occurs. ARRANGEMENTS PUT IN PLACE NOW WILL SAVE YOUR PARTNER GRIEF AND EFFORT WHEN THE TIME COMES.
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SOME ISSUES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER FINANCIAL MATTERS For all financial matters seek advice from your bank/s or financial institutions. Banks require notification of a death as soon as possible. We have heard stories of banks freezing joint accounts on the death of a signatory. If you have a joint account, you will be wise to check its status with the bank. It is advisable for both partners to have an account IN THEIR OWN NAME so there will be no problem in organising payment of benefits into the other account. There is also a demonstrated need for each partner to have their own credit card. The death of the major cardholder means that the additional cardholders are not recognized, leaving the surviving partner without access to credit facilities and no established credit history. You should check the status of all your credit cards. Some bank loans may be written off if an insurance fee has been paid. Discuss with the bank if it is wise to keep any loans rather than pay them off as your partner may find it difficult to raise a new loan at a later date. You should also check who has access to any bank security Boxes. WILLS, POWER OF ATTORNEY & ENDURING POWER OF ATTORNEY Every adult over the age of eighteen should have a current Will and a completed Power of Attorney/Enduring Power of Attorney. Both should be kept in a secure place, the location of which is known to your partner and at least one executor. Both should be updated on a regular basis for example, on renewal of your driving licence. Each State has different regulations. Remember that your Power of Attorney may be needed by your partner at any time e.g., if you are incapacitated due to even temporary medical care. Having Power of Attorney means that your partner can pay bills, give instructions about your medical treatment and attend to your affairs, (if you are unable to do so). There is also a trend towards drawing up an “End of Life Care Plan” which should be kept with these documents. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS AND MEMORIALS Each partner should know the other‟s choice of funeral arrangements, have them written down and preferably kept with the Wills. If eligible, you will be entitled to official commemoration. Your nominated next-of-kin will be contacted by the Office of Australian War Graves to organise this. However, all veterans who served in the Australian forces are entitled to use the relevant Service badge/insignia on their private memorial. A request in writing to the Office of Australian War Graves is required. DFRB/DFRDB/MSBS BENEFIT Upon notification of the death of the original recipient of a DFRB/DFRDB benefit, ComSuper will cease payment until the necessary forms, correctly filled out, and submitted. Only then will your partner receive their entitlements, paid into an account IN THEIR OWN NAME. These entitlements generally are:- DFRB: A lump sum equal to seven pays (14 weeks) of the difference between the deceased (old) and the surviving partner‟s (new) pension, plus the commencement of a fully CPI indexed pension (being five eighths of the deceased‟s old pension) paid fortnightly. DFRDB: A lump sum equal to seven pays of the difference between the deceased‟s (old) and the surviving (new) pension, plus the commencement of a partially CPI indexed pension. In outline, the new pension is five eighths of the deceased‟s full old pension as if he/she had not commuted his/her benefit when leaving the Service. The value of that additional part is „frozen‟ and the part relating to the deceased‟s previous fortnightly pension is CPI indexed. The pension is paid fortnightly. MSBS: These benefits are quite different from DFRB/DFRDB and are calculated on an individual basis upon application.
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VETERAN ENTITLEMENTS Your partner may be entitled to benefits from the Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) but to apply they will need documentation and proof of their partner‟s Defence Service. You and your partner might have already established their possible entitlements. If so, then gathering that information together now and having it on hand will greatly assist in any applications to DVA. Note that if you have a Gold Card it is not transferable. If you are a TPI pensioner your partner will automatically be entitled to a Gold Card. If they believe they are eligible for a War Widow‟s Pension, they should contact DVA and, if their application is successful, they will also be entitled to a Gold Card. Legacy can assist with completing the application. If the death is caused by a Service related injury (or the deceased was already in receipt of a DVA pension) your partner may be entitled to a DVA pension. Contact the DVA, DFWA, Legacy, Vietnam Veterans‟ Association of Australia, Vietnam Veterans‟ Federation of Australia or other ex-Service agencies for further information. If there are entitlements to any other compensation payments these need to be submitted as soon as possible. Entitlements for dependent children may also be payable. PENSION ENTITLEMENTS If your partner‟s total income is below a certain amount, a Centrelink pension, either full or part, may be payable. Bridging finance prior to the start of the ComSuper pension may be provided. Copies of the Marriage Certificate, Will and Death Certificate will be needed. CHILDREN If you have dependent children and/or full time students, additional pension benefits may be payable. Documents required will include copies of the Marriage Certificate and the Death Certificate (though a copy of a newspaper notification of death may be accepted until the Death Certificate is available). MARITAL SEPARATION For a variety of reasons including dementia or invalidity, you and your partner may have needed to live separately for a period. You may need written advice or a certificate from your doctor advising that the separation was for medical reasons before ComSuper will commence pension payment. LEGACY Your partner may be eligible for assistance from Legacy due to your service in a War Zone, Operation Service or training for operations. Contact Legacy for further details. TAX RETURNS A (final) tax return will need to be lodged with the Australian Taxation Office on behalf of the deceased‟s estate. Upon Probate, the estate can be distributed to any beneficiaries and sufficient money needs to be set aside to meet any final tax obligations. The executor will usually arrange this. Other related matters to note include possible Capital Gains Tax for shares purchased after 1985 or other assets, stamp duty and other fees. THE HOUSE After a required period of time (usually 28 days) a house in joint names should be transferred to the surviving joint owner upon application to the relevant Titles Office. Documentation required may include copies of the Marriage Certificate, Death Certificate, the Will and Title documents. The relevant financial institution will need to be advised regarding home loans. The house and contents insurance notices will need to be transferred to a single name. THE CAR A car can be transferred to your partner if they are the sole beneficiary of the Will. Ideally, the family car should be registered in both names. The deceased‟s driving licence may be eligible for a refund of the remaining valid period. Copies of the car registration papers and your driving licence as well as the Marriage Certificate, Death Certificate and Will may be required. Insurance companies will need to be advised of any change of car ownership.
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PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE Benefits may be payable from private health insurers. Future premiums may be reduced, particularly if the family rate reduces to a single rate, so the health fund must be informed of the death. CLUB AND ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP Make a list of organizations of which you are a member, along with the membership numbers, phone numbers and addresses. All the deceased‟s memberships will need to be cancelled. Refunds may be payable. CONTRACTS The current trend towards contracts for mobile phones, Internet, security systems and the like can cause problems. These may have to be paid out in full. Some contracts may need to be re-negotiated or transferred to the surviving partner. Your partner needs to be able to access all relevant account details, passwords etc to be able to contact the companies as soon as possible and to avoid running up further bills. ROUTINE HOUSEHOLD BILLS Keep a list of regular accounts and direct debits (e.g. rates, security systems, home and content insurances, vehicle insurance, health insurance, phone and mobile providers, internet service providers, water, gas, electricity etc). Making a note of how and when they are usually paid and the approximate amounts will save your partner distress and uncertainty, particularly if they are not in the habit of handling those particular accounts. Preferably, both partners should be equally familiar with arrangements for payment of household accounts. If you normally access such accounts either over the phone or via the Internet your partner will need the log-ins (user names and passwords). You will be amazed how many you have and how often you, and therefore your partner, will need to be able to access them! A list of trusted tradesmen, or their fridge magnets on the fridge door, can be a great help. DOCUMENTS Your partner will require a copy of your Will, Service Record (including medical and psychiatric records) and Death Certificate. They may need to carry a certified copy of the Death Certificate in order to conduct or finalise some financial matters. It is a good idea for them to get 10 certified copies. Other documents often needed include the Marriage Certificate and Title Documents for your home. FINALLY It is advised that the newly bereaved partner keep an exercise book to record all business phone calls etc made after the partner‟s death. In the fog of grief, memory can be faulty and a record of calls and decisions made will be very useful. There will no doubt also be calls from friends and family and it can be very helpful to make a note of those too. Relatives and friends may make decisions and arrangements on their behalf and trying to remember all these will be difficult. A copy of all correspondence and forms completed can be kept in a file. These are just some of the issues identified by the ACT Defence Widows’ Support Group as part of their involvement with new widows/ widowers. Some thought and time spent now will be of immense help to your partner, particularly if you are both involved in the process. Contact: DFWA-ACT Branch, Inc GPO Box 2272 Canberra ACT 2601
PH: (02) 6265 9496
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ON THE LIGHTER SiDE
AFTER THE CHRISTMAS PARTY
An elderly man is stopped by the police around 1 a.m. and is asked where he is going at
this time of night.
The man replies, “I am going to a lecture about alcohol abuse and the effects it has
on the human body”.
The officer then asks, “Really? Who is giving that lecture at this time of night?”
The man replies, “MY WIFE!”
68 AND PREGNANT!!
A woman went to the emergency room, where she was seen by a young new doctor.
After about 3 minutes in the examination room, the doctor told her she was pregnant.
She burst out of the room and down the corridor screaming.
An older doctor stopped her and asked what the problem was.
After listening to her story, he calmed her down and sat her in another room.
Then, the doctor marched down the hallway to the first doctor's room.
"What the hell's wrong with you?" he demanded.
"This woman is 68 years old, she has two grown children and several grandchildren,
and you told her she was pregnant!"
The new doctor continued to write on his clipboard and without looking up and said,
"Does she still have the hiccups?"
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To Be 8 Again...
A man was sitting on the edge of the bed, watching his wife, who was looking at
herself in the mirror. Since Christmas was not far off he asked what she'd like to
have as a present.
'I'd like to be „eight again', she replied, still looking in the mirror.
On Christmas Morning, he rose early, made her a nice big bowl of Coco Pops, and then
took her to Luna Park. What a day! He put her on every ride in the park; the Death
Slide, the Wall of Fear, the Screaming Roller Coaster, everything there was.
Five hours later they staggered out of the theme park. Her head was reeling and
her stomach felt upside down. He then took her to a McDonald's where he ordered
her a Happy Meal with extra fries and a chocolate shake.
Then it was off to a movie, popcorn, a large Coke, and her favourite, a big bag of
M&M's. What a fabulous adventure!
Finally she wobbled home with her husband and collapsed into bed exhausted.
He leaned over his wife with a big smile and lovingly asked, 'Well dear, what was it
like being eight again?'
Her eyes slowly opened and her expression suddenly changed.
'I meant my dress size, you idiot!!!!'
The moral of the story: even when a man is listening, he‟s still going to get it wrong.
The President and Committee Wish All Members and Their Loved Ones a Very Merry Christmas
and Safe, Happy and Prosperous 2011
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THE VIETNAM VETERANS ASSOCIATION VICTORIAN BRANCH (Incorporated)
IS A REGISTERED CHARITY. DONATIONS
The VVAA Victorian Branch is a registered charity which means that all of the 30 sub-branches can
raise funds from public donations and provide Tax deductable receipts for all donations over $2,
providing the funds are used for welfare. Some VVAA members have already adopted our Association as their family charity. All that is
needed is to make out a cheque payable to the Sub-branch Welfare Fund and forward it to the
Treasurer who will provide the Tax deductable receipt by return mail. Even the smallest donation is
very much appreciated.
BEQUESTS AND LEGACIES
Making a Will is good planning. It provides you and those for whom you care with peace of mind,
ensures the security of you family, and enables bequests to be made to those charities that represent
your ongoing interests and concerns. Bequests and Legacies are gifts of specifically identified possessions or specified sums of money
gifted to a person, a group of people or an organization. If the VVAA is your charity then the
correct title of the charity is Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Victorian Branch
Welfare Patriotic Fund Please consider our Association as a charity. Remember, one day the person in need of assistance
may be you or a member of your family. VVCS - VETERANS and VETERANS FAMILIES COUNSELLING SERVICE
(A Service Founded by the Vietnam Veterans) Normal Hours: 86408700
Crisis Line (after hours) 1800 011 046
DVA VICTORIA
Normal Hours: 9284 6000
Country/Regional: 1800 555 254
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In Hospital or Convalescing at Home? Like us to know about it and/or have someone to visit to assist or just chat? Name:…………………………………………………………………………………..….......... Address:……………………………………………………………………………………........ Preferred Contact details:……..…………………………………………………………..........
Post or Email your request to the Secretary or give him a call on 9317 7304 and we will try
and arrange a visit on your behalf.