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8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph
The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Jack Bell was a Farrier/ Blacksmith in 8th Light Horse 1930s and WW2Shows Light Horsemen of late 1930sBlack and white photograph of mounted light horseman being Trooper Jack Bell, 8th Light Horse circa 19398th, light horse, bell -
Frankston RSL Sub BranchSouvenir Ashtray
Miniature model of a WW2 era Avro Anson twin engine aircraft mounted on an ashtray. The aircraft is supported by a curved arm attached to the circular ashtray base. The base has a small metal RAAF 'winged eagle' insignia attached to the front edge. The items have been made from chromed metal materials. The RAAF was equipped with Avro Anson aircraft in the late 1930 period prior to WW2. These aircraft were used by the RAAF for general and maritime reconnaissance and training throughout WW2 and into the early 1950s. The first version of the Avro Anson was developed in 1935 by the British Avro aircraft company.Chromed metal RAAF 'winged eagle' insignia on the front edge of the base.plane, trench art, ashtray, aircraft, souvenir, avro anson -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph - Wodonga section jumping
A feature of Agricultural Shows was military sports. Following World War One, the 8th (Indi) Light Horse was raised in the Citizen Military Forces, superseding 16th (Indi) Light Horse. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Black and white photograph of section of four light horse jumping at Albury Show, 1938.Wodonga troop 8th Light Horseshow, military, sports, wodonga, martin, albury -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionAward - HR Nichols trophy
The 8th Light Horse was formed in 1903 from Victorian Mounted Rifles companies in North East Victoria with Headquarters at Benalla. In 1912 the regiment was renumbered 16th Light Horse. In 1920 the title reverted to 8th Light Horse with the territorial title Indi Light Horse. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded. Large silver trophy cup with handles and mesh cover mounted on a bakelite base. Engraved with details of presenter and purpose, and winners' shields."The HR Nicholls / perpetual trophy / Individual aggregate / 8th Light Horse Regt / Annual shoot"; "SSM / AE Howell / 95 Pts / 1933"; "SSM / AE Howell / 110 Pts / 1935"; "Tr JG Moyle / 1937", and "Lieut B Fraser / 1939"8th, light horse, shooting, trophy, nicholls -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPlaque
The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941,the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded. The regimental association visited the 8/13th VMR Museum at Buna Barracks Albury on occasions. Well made plaque in fine condition commemorating a WWII Regiment.Stained wooden shield - shaped plaque with 8th Cavalry Regiment insignia and two engraved panels.Top panel " Presented to 8/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Museum Albury.". Lower Panel " From 8th Cavalry Regiment Victoria 1986."cavalry, 8th, world war two, wwii -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph - 8 LH 1939
8th Light Horse conducted a training camp at Corowa Showground in September 1939. The 8th Light Horse AIF was disbanded in 1919, but soon after re-raised as the 8th (Indi) Light Horse in the Citizen Military Forces, superseding 16th (Indi) Light Horse. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Black and white photograph mounted on pineboard of B Squadron 8th {(Indi ) Australian Light Horse, Corowa 1939B Squadron Indi Light Horse, Corowa 1939light horse, corowa, military, cmf -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph - Lord Gowrie at Corowa Camp
The Governor General Lord Gowrie visited the 8th Light Horse regiment when it was in camp at the Corowa Showgrounds September 1939. The second World War broke out three days later. The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Rare photo of gathering at outbreak of World War 2.Black and white photograph of officers at camp September 1939 at Corowa. Governor General Lord Gowrie in attendance." Governor Lord Gowrie VC. officers of 2 Cav Div and 8th Light Horse at Corowa Camp 1st Sep 1939 " followed by list of names.military, light horse, corowa, gowrie, governor general, world war two, wwii -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph - Images from 2nd Div Camp 1940
Second Cavalry Division conducted camp of full time training at Torquay near Geelong Victoria from January to April 1940. One of the regiments attending was 8th Light Horse. This was one of the last large gathering of horsed cavalry in Victoria. The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941,the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Images of citizen soldiers from North East Victoria at beginning of world War 2.Collection of six black and white photographs of 8th Light Horse in camp near Geelong, January to April 1940.Shows mounted horsemen,tents and horse lines.training, camp, torquay, cavalry, 8th light horse regiment -
Eltham District Historical Society IncJournal - Newsletter, Newsletter, No. 269 April 2023
Contents: • Legacy by Jim Connor • Our Annual General Meeting – Saturday 15th April 2023 • Heritage Walk - Saturday 6th May 2023 - Research Valley South Side • Vale - Harry Charles Gilham • Eltham Hotels • Rob Roy Hillclimb Revival Weekend by Jim Connor • Northern Territory Special Reconnaissance Unit • Yemmerrawannie • Book Review: Eric Rooks Farm: The Nillumbik Gift by Liz Pidgeon • Alan Marshall by Jim Connor • National Volunteer Week - 15th to 21st May 2023 • Notice: Annual General Meeting - Saturday 15th April 2023 The Shire of Eltham Historical Society was formed in October 1967. The first newsletter of the Society was issued May 1978 and has been published continuously ever since on a bi-monthly basis. With the cessation of the Shire of Eltham in late 1994, the Society's name was revised to Eltham District Historical Society and this name first appeared with issue No. 103, July 1995. The collection of the Society's newsletters provides a valuable resource on the history of the Society's activities, office bearers and committee members, guest speakers and subjects of historical interest pertinent to the former Shire of Eltham and the Eltham District.A4 newsletter distributed to members (Digital and A4 photocopy)newsletter, eltham district historical society -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph - Tallangatta Troop 8 LH Hutton Trophy winners
The Tallangatta Troop, 8th Light horse Regiment won the Hutton Trophy in 1938.The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941,the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded. The Hutton Trophy or Shield was awarded annually to the best Light Horse Troop in Ausralia. The trophy is now held at the Armoured Centre, Puckapunyal.Shows Citizen soldiers from North East Victoria.Black and white photograph of officer and men of Tallangatta Troop 8th Light Horse Regiment.Names : Lt. L Wildsmith, J.J. Moyle, B. Kennedy, N. Stevenson, G. Agar, M. Paton, M. Caldwell, G. Morley, F. Paton." Tallangatta Troop 8th Light Horse Regiment on winning Hutton trophy 1938. Wyeeboo Reserve " Also list of names. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph - Ferret
Annual Camp 1968 was a Centurion Tank camp. Ferret scout cars were used for reconnaissance. The 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles was raised as a regiment of the Royal Australian Armoured Corps on 1 May 1948 with Headquarters in Melbourne and squadrons in Sale, Benalla/Wangaratta and Albury. In 1955 Regimental Headquarters moved to Wangaratta and a second squadron was located at Albury. The Sale squadron transferred to 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse. In 1977 8/13 VMR Regiment was reduced to an independent squadron A Squadron 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles and in 1991 was linked with 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse forming the VMR Squadron of that regiment.Black and white photograph of Ferret Scout Car Mark 1 at 8/13Victorian Mounted Rifles Annual Camp at Puckapunyal , 1968.military, vehicle, ferret, scout car -
Australian Commando Association - VictoriaBook, Z Special- Desert-Jungle- Sabotage
When Lloyd Campbell joined the AIF, he was underage and went to the Middle East with 2/17 Battalion. Later in New Guinea he made a major career change and volunteered for an unknown unit and special operations. What he had joined was the SRD – known as Z-Special Unit. Z Special Unit—also known as Special Operations Executive (SOE), Special Operations Australia (SOA) or the Services Reconnaissance Department (SRD)—was a joint Allied special forces unit formed during the Second World War to operate behind Japanese lines in South East Asia. Predominantly Australian, Z Special Unit was a specialist reconnaissance and sabotage unit that included British, Dutch, New Zealand, Timorese and Indonesian members, predominantly operating on Borneo and the islands of the former Netherlands East Indies. The unit carried out a total of 81 covert operations in the South West Pacific theatre, with parties inserted by parachute or submarine to provide intelligence and conduct guerrilla warfare. The best known of these missions were Operation Jaywick and Operation Rimau, both of which involved raids on Japanese shipping in Singapore Harbour; the latter of which resulted in the deaths of 23 commandos either in action or by execution after capture. Although the unit was disbanded after the war, many of the training techniques and operational procedures employed were later used during the formation of other Australian Army special forces units and they remain a model for guerrilla operations to this day. pp. 274, illusts, maps ww2, the australian special operations, special forces, z special unit -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionNewspaper - Benalla Ensign
Lord and Lady Gowrie attended the Melbourne Cup 1 November 1938. Their escort on that occasion was drawn from 8th (Indi) Light Horse Regiment and commanded by Lieutenant FC Trickey with soldiers drawn from Benalla, Euroa, Wangaratta, Tallangatta, Wahgunyah, Wodonga and Rutherglen Troops. The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded. Well prepared memento of vice-regal visit to regional centre and escort duty by the local regiment.Framed photograph of an extract from "The Benalla Ensign" of Friday November 4 1938 reporting on the Governor General's escort to the Melbourne Cup drawn from the 8th Light Horse Regiment. The frame is black painted wood with gold trim.8th light horse regiment, benalla ensign, governor general, gowrie, flemington, cup -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph - Lord Gowrie at Corowa Camp
The Governor General Lord Gowrie visited the 8th Light Horse regiment when it was in camp at the Corowa Showgrounds September 1939. The second World War broke out three days later. The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded. In 1948, the 8th together with 13th and 20th Light Horse regiments were linked in the raising of the 8th /13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regiment.Black and white photograph in wooden frame - two mounted horsemen with soldier standing in frontCorowa Camp 1939 ( Sept. ) Left - Trumpet Major Dobbie, 2 Cav. Div. Band. Centre - Lord Gowrie VC, Governor General of Australia. Right - Major Morrison, OC 8th Light Horsemilitary, corowa, gowrie, light horse -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph, Officers 8LH
The seated officer is probably Lieutenant Colonel Chisholm, Commanding officer of the 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment. Lieutenant McGeoch was Troop Leader the Wodonga Troop, and Lieutenant Wildsmith was Troop Leader Tallangatta Troop. The 8th Light Horse AIF was disbanded in 1919, but soon after re-raised as the 8th (Indi) Light Horse in the Citizen Military Forces, superseding 16th (Indi) Light Horse. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded. Black and white photograph of three light horse officers standing behind a fourth officer seated. Photo is mounted on a backing card. Inscription under photo.Standing : Lt McGeoch, Lt Attree, Lt Welesmith (sic)military, light horse, 8 lh, indi, officer, mcgeoch, wildsmith, attree, militia -
Geelong RSL Sub BranchHistory - 2/6 Independent Company, The Purple Devils, Syd Trigellis-Smith
The 2/6th Commando Squadron (Australia) was one of 12 independent companies or commando squadrons raised by the Australian Army during WW2. The 2/6th served in four major campaigns - Kokoda, Buna, Markham-Ramu and Borneo and was involved in the Battle of Kaiapit. Late in the WW2 hostilities 2/6th Commando Squadron was at Balikpapan and attached to 25th Brigade to provide support to the Brigade - reconnaissance patrols, fighting patrols, ambushes and humanitarian assistance to local inhabitants. The 2/6th Commando Squadron was disbanded in 1946. The Sword returned to Australia with a member of 2/6th Commando Squadron VX132826 W G H Burrell. The Book Purple Devils was written by Syd Trigellis Smith in his retirement, he had served during WW2 with 2/2 Field Regiment in New Guinea.VX132826 W G H Burrell served with the AIF during WW2 in New Guinea and posted to 2/6th Commando Squadron and was on Borneo and at Balikpapan. George Burrell was able to being back the sword at the end of hostilities. The Book the Purple Devils is the 2/6th Commando Squadron history as interpreted by Syd Trigellis Smith.Book Purple Devils by Syd Trigellis, Smith, a Japanise Sword - steel blade encased in a leather scabbard and the military history of VX132826 W G H Burrell who served with 2/6 th Commando Squadron.The Book - Purple Devils, a History of 2/6 Australian Commando Squadron, ISBN 064607125-4. vx132826 w g h burrell, ww2, new guinea, 2/6th commando sqn, gunto sword, purple devils -
Melbourne LegacyPhotograph, Scott Family, 29/08/1994
Photograph of Lynne Scott and her five children to promote Legacy week. The newspaper cutting says that her husband Colin Scott died in 1985, he had served in the Vietnam War as a reconnaissance pilot. One of his children, Chris, has become a Brisbane Bears footballer. The family were interviewed and said how Legacy had been very good to their family. Lynne Scott says "The most important thing for us was knowing there was someone we could call on if we needed and that the children were being looked after". The Scott family were featured on the 1994 poster for Legacy Week. 1994 was the year of the family and it was fitting that a family was chosen to promote Legacy. They were also featured on the cover of The Answer and article in August 1994.A record of a widow and Junior Legatees promoting Legacy Week and a record of their story and appreciation of Legacy's work.Black and white photo of the Scott family supported by Legacy and a newspaper article about them.legacy promotion, junior legatee, legacy week, answer -
Moorabbin Air MuseumAssorted drawings and articles on small experimental aircraft - Description for details Keith Meggs Collection
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Wodonga & District Historical Society IncPhotograph - Members of the Bethanga Light Horse Troop
The 8th Light Horse was initially raised from companies of the colonial Victorian Mounted Rifles located in North-east Victoria following federation. In 1912 a major reorganisation of the Australian military forces resulted in the regiment being renumbered 16th Light Horse. The Regiment was disbanded in 1919 but soon after was re-raised as the 8th (Indi) Light Horse in the Citizen Military Forces, with the territorial title Indi Light Horse. The Indi Light Horse consisted of 3 squadrons. A squadron consisted of troops in Corryong, Walwa, Tallangatta, Eskdale and Wodonga. After an extensive recruiting campaign in January 1939 a new troop was raised in Bethanga, Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.This photo represents a group of Bethanga men who committed to service during World War 2A framed Black and white photograph of Bethanga members of the Australian Light Horse in uniformBack row (left to right), Troopers Keith Cadman, Arthur "Friday" Dower, Bert Sommer, Norm Martin, Andy Mitchell, Tom Pearce; Middle row (left to right). Troop Leader Sergeant Edward "Ted"Davies, Troopers Jack Mortlock, Albert "Ab" Bohun, Aub Cadman, Les Freyer Front row (left to right), Troopers Henry Trenchard, A."Ed" Hertzog, Doug Dower, Nelson "Manny" Green, Eric Wheller, J. Parker.indi light horse, bethanga light horse troop, bethanga history -
4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment Unit History Room
Card - Christmas Card, 1915 (exact)
Service of Frank Phillips Prior to the commencement of World War I, Frank Phillips served in the Minyip Troop of the Light Horse militia. His civilian occupation was that of clerk. On 22 August 1914 he enlisted in C Squadron 4th Light Horse Regiment. The 4th Light Horse Regiment embarked on the troop ship “Wiltshire “ for training at Mena Camp, in Egypt. During May 1915 the Regiment was deployed to the Gallipoli campaign in a dismounted role. After seven months, the Gallipoli campaigned was abandoned and the troops withdrawn. On return to Egypt the 4th Light Horse Regiment divided with one component deployed to Palestine and the other to the Western Front. Frank went on to serve in Palestine. He was promoted to Sergeant while at Gallipoli and, in Palestine, was promoted to Captain, serving as Adjutant of the Regiment. He was granted furlough to return to Australia from 14 October 1916 to 12 March 1917. On 16 January 1918 he was Mentioned in Despatches Citation: At Hill 750 near Bir El Esani on 30-4-17 he led an attack on Hill 750 under heavy rifle fire capturing the position and 7 armed Bedouins. On 23-5-17 during reconnaissance, he led and attack on 790 under very heavy rifle and machine gun fire and captured the position, inflicting losses on the Turks. He has, at all times, set a fine example of courage to his men. 22 October: 1918 he was awarded the Military Cross Recommendation of Commanding Officer – For exceptional gallantry and devotion to duty on the 28th September 1918, during the crossing of the JORDAN near EL MIN, this officer (adjutant of the Regiment) personally reconnoitred for crossings under heavy M.G. fire and led the Regiment to the only available crossing, rendering invaluable assistance during the crossing. On 3oth September when the Regiment was advanced guard on to KAUKAB, this officer’s personal reconnaissance to confirm patrol reports was of the highest order and utmost value to his C.O. culminating in the capture of KAUKAB with a mounted attack and the The 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment has a long and distinguished history that pre-dates Federation to colonial Victoria’s mounted troops. Our history parallels that of the nation, including its active participation in some of the most inspiring events in Australian Military History including the Defence of ANZAC and the charge at Beersheba. The Regiment is based on a linkage of the two post-World War II Victorian Army Reserve RAAC units - 4th/19th Prince of Wales’ Light Horse and 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles. From these units we derive our links with the six Light Horse Regiments of Victoria and Southern New South Wales (4th, 8th, 13th, 17th, 19th and 20th Light Horse Regiments.) The Regiment proudly bears the guidon of the 4th Light Horse, with the guidons of the remaining regiments being laid up in the crypt of the Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance. During World War I, the 4th Light Horse Regiment served with distinction on three fronts – Gallipoli, Palestine and the Western Front. Corporal, later Captain, Phillips was a member of the 4th Australian Light Horse Regiment. He created the post card while serving with the Regiment as a Corporal at Gallipoli. Post Card hand made and sent to familyFrom Cpl Frank Phillips, 4th Australian Light Horse Regiment. Entries in pencil Front: Addressed to Andrew Phillips (father) at Minyip, Victoria, Message: “A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all, Made while on my day out. Love Frank” Reverse Top Centre – 4 LH Badge Centre – cloth map of Australia stapled to card Bottom – Print of flag stapled to card, Irish green ensign, Union flag in canton, gold coloured Irish harp on fly. Notations: Broadmeadows, Wiltshire (Troop Ship), Shrapnel Gully, Suicide Gully, Courtney’s Post Mena, Mex, Heliopolis, Imbros, Gallipoli, Turkish soil underneath (flag), Australia on Turkey, Lone Pine, Leans Trench, Constantinople, All honour to our Irish comrades, To greet you 1915-16. From the shells, yells, and little Hells, of the Darda Dardenelles 0 – 0 May you enjoy your Xmas dinner as I hope to enjoy my Xmas billy in the trenches.ww1, gallipoli, 4th light horse, post card, frank phillips -
Bendigo Military MuseumAdministrative record - Geodetic Survey and Topographical Mapping in Australia - Report by BP Lambert 1968, 1968
Australia is governed by a Federal Government and by six State Governments. National coordination of their respective geodetic survey and topographic mapping activities is effected on the advice of a National Mapping Council. Twenty years ago, at least 95% of Australia was poorly mapped and what maps existed were in need of revision. only a small area of the continent was covered by horizontal geodetic control and there was no scheme for a national levelling survey. Over the intervening period there has been an urgent and increasing demand for topographic maps varying from large scale contoured maps in support of specific engineering projects to rapid reconnaissance maps required for mineral prospecting in remote areas. Superimposed on this has been a defence requirement, specifically for military training areas, and generally for maps of the whole country. During the period much progress has been made. This paper reports on the progress from early colonial days through to the present time and finally hazards a prediction of future trends.Photocopy of 18-page typed report including diagrams, stapled top left-hand corner. Geodetic Survey and Topographic Mapping a Report by BP Lambert Director of National Mapping, Department of National Development, Canberra, Australia, 1968.royal australian survey corps, rasvy, fortuna, army survey regiment, army svy regt, asr, national mapping -
Australian Commando Association - VictoriaBook - Official History of Special Operations Australia- Volume 2 Operations
Popularly known today as Z Special Unit, or by the wartime cover names of Inter-Allied Services Department (ISD) and Services Reconnaissance Department (SRD), Special Operations Australia (SOA) was the Special Operations component of the US-led Allied Intelligence Bureau in the Pacific Theatre during the Second World War. From the secret files of Z Special Unit, and the second in a set of five volumes, Volume 2 - Operations describes almost two hundred separate "Z" Operations. Through the examination of this volume, the strategic role of the Special Operations - Australia organisation becomes apparent. Students of history will easily identify the ebb and flow of the Allied campaigns in the Pacific Theatre, with many of the operations of SOA being precursors to larger Allied offensives. Several serious blunders by SRD headquarters are also identified, one of which in particular had the capacity to compromise one of the greatest secrets of the Second World War and could have cost thousands of Allied lives...special operations australia, australian commandos, world war ii, special forces -
Frankston RSL Sub BranchTrench Art
Made by Cpl. Charlie Dawes 116777 R.A.A.F from parts got while serving at Goodenough and Thursday Isalnds WW2Miniature model of a WW2 era Lockheed P-38 Lightning twin engine aircraft mounted on a trench art ashtray made from various used munitions. This model was made during WW2 by Corporal Cyril 'Charlie' Dawes, RAAF service number 116777, from parts found whilst serving at Goodenough and Thursday Islands in the Torres Strait. The aircraft is supported by a 0.50 inch calibre bullet fixed to the inside of a section of an artillery case which forms the base. The base has three 0.303 inch calibre bullets attached vertically around the circumference and a metal matchbox holder with a RAAF hat badge insignia attached to the front. The items have been made from chromed metal materials. The RAAF was equipped with a small number of these aircraft, commencing in 1942, which were used for front line photographic reconnaissance duty. The first version of the Lockheed P-38 was introduced in 1941 by the USA Lockheed aircraft company as a heavy fighter.RAAF chrome cap badge (WW2 era with the kings crown)plane, trench art, ashtray -
Australian Commando Association - VictoriaBook - Official History of Special Operations Australia- Volume 1 Organisation
Popularly known today as Z Special Unit, or by the wartime cover names of Inter-Allied Services Department (ISD) and Services Reconnaissance Department (SRD), Special Operations Australia (SOA) was the Special Operations component of the US-led Allied Intelligence Bureau in the Pacific Theatre during the Second World War. The first in a set of five, Volume 1 – Organization tells the story of the establishment, organisation and function of SOA from its earliest days as a direct offshoot of the British Special Operations Executive, until the organisation’s disbandment after a long, brutal and bloody conflict. Introduced by clandestine operations and espionage writer C.A. Brown, Volume 1 tells the story of the establishment of SOA and its fight for survival as a British-oriented Special Ops organisation under American command, while giving the Imperial Japanese invaders a bloody nose all the way from New Guinea to Indochina. Covering in detail the major personalities, departments, directorates, training and operational bases of SOA, Volume 1.Soft cover with 200 pagesaustralian commandos, special operations, special forces, world war ii -
Forests Commission Retired Personnel Association (FCRPA)Drop Chute
From the early 1960s, the Forests Commission had pre-season arrangements in place with local aeroclubs and pilots across regional Victoria. Air observers from FCV districts routinely flew during the summer months in small, fixed-wing aircraft on fire spotting missions and to map fire boundaries. The information was often needed quickly by crews on the ground or in the control centre and these small chutes were used to drop messages and maps from the reconnaissance aircraft on a low pass above a cleared area like a football field. About 3-foot long when fully extended, they had a small pouch secured with a press stud for the map or package. The chutes were made from tough canvas with a small, weighted sandbag at one end and a long yellow streamer tail on the other to help direct its fall and locating it on the ground. Drop chutes were still in common use in the 1990s, but the increased availability of helicopters combined with improved digital data transfer made drop chutes redundant. Simple, but now redundant technologyAerial drop chute"Return to Forests Comm Vic" stenciled on sidebushfire -
Forests Commission Retired Personnel Association (FCRPA)Wooden Model Fire Tower, Tom Coish, Model of Reef Hills fire tower, (5 km south of Benalla), 1957
Victoria once had well over one hundred fire lookouts and firetowers. Fire lookouts, or observation posts, were often just a clearing on a hill or a vantage point, whereas firetowers were definite structures. There are at least three categories of firetowers… (1) tree perches, (2) four-legged towers made of either wood or steel, as well as (3) hilltop cabins and observatories. Many were established by the Forests Commission Victoria (FCV) in the 1920s, but the network was expanded rapidly in response to recommendations of the Stretton Royal Commission after the 1939 Black Friday bushfires. The wooden towers were often built by bush craftsmen like legendary FCV overseer Clem Heather from Orbost. But advances in aerial reconnaissance and radio technology led to the gradual reduction in the number of fixed towers. FFMV now operates 72 firetowers. The CFA, Melbourne Water, Hancock Victorian Plantations (HVP) also operate some, the Army has one at Puckapunyal overlooking the live-firing range. Only two remaining fire towers of this design remain in Victoria (Mt Little Dick and Big Tower in the Mullungdung State Forest). Mt Nowa Nowa and Stringers Knob burnt down in the 2019/20 bushfiresLarge model of an Reef Hills fire tower. Presumably used for instructional purposes. Traditional FCV four legged design with three landings and closed cabin.bushfire, forests commission victoria (fcv) -
Australian Commando Association - VictoriaBook, The Official History of Special Operations Australia Vol. 3- Communications
Popularly known today as Z Special Unit, or by the wartime cover names of Inter-Allied Services Department (ISD) and Services Reconnaissance Department (SRD), Special Operations Australia (SOA) was the Special Operations component of the US-led Allied Intelligence Bureau in the Pacific Theatre during the Second World War. From the secret files of Z Special Unit, and the third in a set of five volumes, Volume 3 - Communications describes the communications links and equipment which were the lifeline for "Z" Operatives in the field. From "Z's" early days relying on Dutch military communications stations in Melbourne and Darwin to the establishment of dedicated "Z" communications stations in Darwin, Morotai and Labuan, Vol 3 provides the only comprehensive history of these sites ever committed to paper. Radio and Special Forces enthusiasts will be agog at the appendices in this volume, which not only include copies of the actual operating instructions and technical manuals for much of the specialist SOE communications hardware used by "Z" during the war, but also the once-top secret SOE ciphers and codes used by Z parties in the field. The Official History of Special Operations Australia, Volume 3 - Communications is a unique record of one of the most important aspects of Second World War Special Operations.australian special operations, special forces, world war ii -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph - 8LH Egypt 1916
The 8th Light Horse Regiment AIF was raised at Broadmeadows Victoria in September 1914 under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Alexander White and formed part of the 3rd Light Horse Brigade. The regiment served at Gallipoli where in a courageous but ill-fated charge at the Nek on 7 August 1915 it suffered horrendous casualties including Lieutenant Colonel White. Rebuilt in Egypt under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Maygar VC the regiment went on the serve throughout the Middle East Campaign. Colonel Maygar died of wounds at Beersheba when the regiment was attacked by enemy aircraft while waiting to follow up the successful charge of the 4th LH Brigade on 30 October 1917. The 8th Light Horse AIF was disbanded in 1919, but soon after re-raised as the 8th (Indi) Light Horse in the Citizen Military Forces, superseding 16th (Indi) Light Horse. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Framed black and white photograph of large body of mounted soldiers being 'A' Squadron 8th Light Horse Regiment taken in Egypt 1916. Heavy wooden frame.light horse, 8th, wwi, world war one, egypt -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionPhotograph - 8LH compilation
The 8th Light Horse Regiment AIF was raised at Broadmeadows Victoria in September 1914 under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Alexander White and formed part of the 3rd Light Horse Brigade. The regiment served at Gallipoli where in a courageous but ill-fated charge at the Nek on 7 August 1915 it suffered horrendous casualties including Lieutenant Colonel White. Rebuilt in Egypt under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Maygar VC the regiment went on the serve throughout the Middle East Campaign. Colonel Maygar died of wounds at Beersheba when the regiment was attacked by enemy aircraft while waiting to follow up the successful charge of the 4th LH Brigade on 30 October 1917. The 8th Light Horse AIF was disbanded in 1919, but soon after re-raised as the 8th (Indi) Light Horse in the Citizen Military Forces, superseding 16th (Indi) Light Horse. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Framed compilation of five black and white photographs of 8th Light Horse squadrons plus transport and officers, also colour patch. Photographs taken in Egypt c. 1915.8th, light horse, wwi, world war one, egypt -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental CollectionProgramme - Annual reunion program
The 8th Light Horse Regiment AIF was raised at Broadmeadows Victoria in September 1914 under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Alexander White and formed part of the 3rd Light Horse Brigade. The regiment served at Gallipoli where in a courageous but ill-fated charge at the Nek on 7 August 1915 it suffered horrendous casualties including Lieutenant Colonel White. Rebuilt in Egypt under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Maygar VC the regiment went on the serve throughout the Middle East Campaign. Colonel Maygar died of wounds at Beersheba when the regiment was attacked by enemy aircraft while waiting to follow up the successful charge of the 4th LH Brigade on 30 October 1917. The 8th Light Horse AIF was disbanded in 1919, but soon after re-raised as the 8th (Indi) Light Horse in the Citizen Military Forces, superseding 16th (Indi) Light Horse. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and Northeast Victoria. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.Represents the ongoing camaraderie of soldiers from Victoria.Program for the 1933 Annual Reunion of the 8th Light Horse Regiment (AIF) Association held at Anzac House Melbourne. Program is glued to light card backing.reunion, light horse
