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8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
8/13 VMR was issued Humber trucks in Armoured Personnel Carrier role., 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.Two black and white photographs of Hunber 1 ton trucks taken during 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles training at Puckapunyal , c 1964." 2 Tp Puckapunyal Humber 1 Ton used as APCs -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles was equipped with White Scout Cars in 1960s.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 two White Scout cars painted in a distinctive camouflage pattern suggested by the Troop Sergeant who had seved with Panzer Corps in Russia during WW2." 2TP Puckapunyal White Scout Car." -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
humber 1 ton trucks were a good substitute for armoured personnel carriers and enabled training in the APC role.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.Three black and white photographs of Humber 1 ton trucks of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles with camouflage covering during exercises at Puckapunyal c. 1964 -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
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 13 soldiers of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles taken at Annual Camp, Puckapunyal c. 1965' RSM WO1 Fryer and some of the Sgts Mess." -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
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 three soldiers of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles on parade ground at Puckapunyal c. 1964" Lt Col Cunningham CO, Capt D Duff Adjt, WO1 D. Fryer RSM " -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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Exercise Run a Muck was a two week training program conducted by 8/13 VMR using Centurion tanks.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 regimentBlack and white photograph of four 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles soldier outside a tent in bushland. Taken at Puckapunyal during Exercise Run a Muck. c. 1968" Tpr R. Taylor; Sgt J Crane, Lt J Clay; Tpr D. Anderson. : -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
Exercise Run a Mock was a two week training program conducted by 8/13 VMR using Centurion tanks.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 four 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles soldiers outside a tent in bushland. Taken at Puckapunyal during Exercise Run a Muck. 1968." Tpr R Taylor; Sgt J Crane, Lt J Clay; Tpr D. Anderson.' -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
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.Three black and white photographs of Centurion tanks of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles on manoeuvres at Puckapunyal during annual exercise, 1969. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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Centurion tank was able to ford a water obstacle of 1.4 metres but bank collapse of eroded hole could cause drowning.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 ' drowned' Centurion tank during 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles annual exercise at Puckapunyal 1969." Crew Commander Capt Skeen, Driver Tpr Park, Gunner CFpl J Clay, Loader/ Operator l/Cpl Froulins"centurion, skeen r captain -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph - ACV on firing range
Annual exercise 1970 was the penultimate conducted by 8/13 VMR in its role as a tank regiment. The phased introduction of M113 vehicles began.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 M577A1 Armoured Command Vehicle ( ACV ) of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles controlling a live shoot by Centurion tanks at Puckapunyal during annual camp 1970.military, tank, centurion, puckapunyal, vmr -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
The M113 LRV was introduced to 8/13 VMR in 1971 when the Regiment transitioned from tank to recon role. 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 11 soldiers of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles posed beside M113 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle ( LRV ) at annual training camp, Puckapunyal 1971." LtoR, Back: Lt Clay, Tpr Marki, Lt Curtis, L/Cpl Grundy, WO2 Madjeric, L/Cpl Roberts. Front: Cpl Smith, Cpl Young, Tpr Johnson, Tpr Reguski. " -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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During exercise crew cooking was the normal procedure .All members of crew contributed regardless of rank.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 Centurion tank of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles with two crewmen preparing meal. Another crewman remains in turret as sentry. Annual camp, Puckapunyal 1971." Lt J Clay brewing up " -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
The M113 LRV was introduced to 8/13 VMR in 1971 when the regiment transitioned from tank to recon role.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 M113 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle ( LRV ) topping a saw tooth obstacle during training at 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles Annual Camp, Puckapunyal 1971. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
The M113 LRV was introduced to 8/13 VMR in 1971 when the regiment transitioned from tank to recon role.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 M113 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle { LRV} crossing a ditch obstacle during training a 8/13 VMR Annual Camp, Puckapunyal, 1971. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
1972 was 8/13 VMR first year fully equipped with M113 vehicles 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 10 soldiers of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles with M113 Light reconnaissance Vehicle ( LRV ) at Puckapunyal 1972." Top: Tpr E Toole, L/Cpl W. Russell, Sgt M. Hudson, Lt J. Clay, L/Cpl M. Barlow, Cpl J. Smith: front: L/Cpl L. Bergin, Tpr D. Wyborn. 1 Tp A Sqn8/13VMR Camp 1972 Puckapunyal : -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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The M113 LRV had ' swimming' capability, but required preparation before entering deep water.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 two 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles soldiers preparing an M113 Light reconnaissance Vehicle ( LRV ) for flotation training during Annual Camp 1972." Water entry preparation, Camp 1972, " -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph - AFV water training
8/13 VMR training in the water capability of the M113 LRV during Annual Camp.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 regimentBlack and white photograph of M113 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle ( LRV ) emerging from lake during 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles Annual Camp 1972." Annual Camp 1972, Water training "military, water, vmr, m113, training -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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A bivouac area was a camp site occupied for a short period of days during a training exercise. Rudimentary structures might be erected.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 group of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles soldiers gathered around a wash point in a bivouac area during Annual cam9 1973. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
photograph
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 officers of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles at Annual camp Puckapunyal 1974.Back Row l to r: Lieuts J Clay, L Trapnell, T Ireland, Goodson,S. whitehead, R Griffiths, J boyce, Mentliskowsky,Wallman, K Courtis, J Mclean; Front Row: Major N whitehead MC, LieutsL Shefford, I Docking, Capt B Rowley, Major D Short, Lt Col J Neale, Colonel LG coleman ( Honrary Colonel ), Capt G Cole Lieuts J baines, L Jackel, J Horsley. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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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 regimentblack and white photograph of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles at Annual Camp at Puckapunyal 1974" 8/13 VMR 1974 " -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph
Incidents of this kind occurred as crewmen tested the limits of their vehicle.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 M113 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle ( LRV ) stranded in an anti tank ditch during training. " M113 in a awkward position. Driver : trooper Grundy " -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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The 8/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles held its tracked Armoured vehicle training program camps at Puckapunyal. The regiment was raised as part 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 three officers at 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles Annual Caomp at Puckapunyal 1974.. They are Colonel LG Coleman ( Honorary Colonel ). Lieutenant Colonel J Neale ( Commanding Officer and Major ( Ret'd) N. whitehead MC. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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Between 1951 and 1959 National Servicemen from Albury and NE Victoria trained as Centurion crewmen for 8/13 VMR 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.Reproduction photograph of four National Servicemen at Puckapunyal training as Centurion drivers prior to being posted to 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles,1956. They are ;Ttroopers Noel Strauss, Kerry McLure, colin hore and Jim Black. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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Between !955 and 1959 National Servicemen from Albury and NE Victoria trained as Centurion crewmen for 8/13 VMR.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.Reproduction photograph of five National Servicemen at Puckapunyal training as Centurion drivers prior to in 1956 being posted to 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles . From front : Troopers C. Hore, K. McLure, J. Black, J. McGrath, and unknown. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Born digital image, September 1993
The Dibb Report into mainland defence of Australia,1986, among other things identified the requirement for protection of key assets in Northern Australia and the possibility of involving Army Reserve (Ares) units in this thus releasing regular forces for offensive operations. Dibb also pointed out that this defined role would result in a huge lift in Ares morale. In June 1988, the 3rd Division (3Div) conducted a Tactical Exercise without Troops (TEWT), Exercise ‘Distant Trumpet’ in the Katherine- Darwin area to study problems associated with defence against low level incursions against Tindal RAAF Base. Exercise ‘Northern Explorer’ followed in October of that year when units of the 3Div including A Squadron 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles sent patrol groups to get a first taste of environment and conditions. Post-Exercise reports had to include recommendations re: health, equipment and adaptation of Standing Operating Procedures (SOPs) in preparation for the new role deploying to Northern Australia. The first deployment by 8/13 Vistorian Mounted Rifles was in 1988. Deployments continued i following years. In September 1993, 3 Troop (Wangaratta) VMR Squadron 4/19 PWLH commanded by Captain Kelvin Robertson deployed to NT. The training began with airfield defence at Tindal followed by a 1000km recon into Arnhem Land in four Landrovers. The troop reported on the conditions of the roads, airfields, bridges (mainly causeways) resources such as fuel supplies in the towns and infrastructure. Each troop taking different route. 3 Troop had the Northern route through Kakadu National park across the East Alligator River to Oenpelli then to Maningrida and Ramangining and south to the Central Arnhem Road and back to Tindal Air force Base. Kelvin Robertson enlisted on 6 April 1981 at Cobram where Lieutenant Dan Wyborn was the troop leader at 2 Troop A Squadron 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles (2TP A SQN 8/13 VMR). He completed the Initial Employment Training Course (IET) and then an M113A1 driver’s course in March 1982. Course Senior Instructor (SI) was Captain (CAPT) John McLean and wing instructor Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2) Mick Baxter (ex-Driving & Servicing Wing instructor at the School of Armour). He served with 2TP at Cobram as a trooper Driver/Signaller until June 1982 when he was selected for officer training. He served two years as an Officer Cadet in Course 21 at Officer Cadet Training Unit (OCTU) graduating in June 1984. He returned to 8/13 VMR and completed the 1/85 Army Reserve (ARES) Regimental Officers Basic Course (ROBC Reconnaissance), then was posted immediately as 1 TP LDR for the Hay Booligal Annual Field Exercise (AFX). In 1985 he took command of 2TP at Cobram until Nov 1987 when he transferred to C Squadron First Armoured Regiment (CSQN 1AR). This began six months full time duty in which Lieutenant (LT) Robertson completed the regular army 1/88 (ROBC Tank), and then served as CSQN's first and only ARES Leopard Tank TP LDR until the next ARES LT was trained up as 2TP LDR. He later served as the CSQN Liaison Officer (LO) on the First Brigade (1 Bde) exercise ‘Predators Advance’ and as a staff officer on a Second Division (2Div) exercise. In Jan 1991 he studied at the Reserve Command and Staff College (RCSC). Upon completion of Grade 3 he was promoted to CAPT and transferred back to a reconnaissance troop, 3TP VMR SQN 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse (4/19PWLH) at Wangaratta. CAPT Robertson transferred to the Inactive List in 1994, but in 2011 returned to the Active List serving as Operations Captain (OPS CAPT) at Regimental Headquarters (RHQ) 12th/16th Hunter River Lancers (12/16 HRL)and later Second-In-Command (2IC) Tamworth-based Operations Support Squadron (OPSPT SQN), and at 9 day exercises at Singleton range and an exercise at Townville High Range in Protective Mobility Vehicle (PMV) Bushmasters. In 2013 after completing the ARES Grade 3 Staff Officers course in Brisbane he returned home to Jerilderie and served as 2IC A SQN 4/19 PWLH based at Latchford Barracks Bonegilla. He was awarded the Defence Long Service Medal (DLSM) in 2014. Highlights of his career included being Parade Commander for the 75th anniversary Beersheba parade in Canberra on 31 October 1992. The guard, drawn from the VMR SQN 4/19 PWLH represented the 4th Light Horse Regiment, a participant of the Charge. Then twenty years later, 2012, he was invited to speak at the Quirindi Anzac Day ceremony. On this occasion he was serving with 12/16 HRL, so in two ceremonies, 20 years apart, he had represented both the 4th LHR and the 12th LHR, the two lead Regiments that charged Beersheba. CAPT Robertson was placed on the Inactive List again in 2015. Illustrates Reserve training in NT.Colour image of soldier with landscape in background being Captain Kelvin Robertson 3 Troop Leader (Wangaratta) VMR Squadron 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment looking out over the Arafura swamp near the Maningrida to Ramingining road in Arnhem Land during exercise in the Northern Territory, September 1993.tindal, robertson -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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Exercise of this type aimed to practice driver skills, map reading, camouflage and concealment. 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.Colour photograph of truck in scrub-land covered with camouflage net,during " B " vehicle exercise in south west Victoria conducted by 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles, c. 1986. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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This exercise was conducted by A Squadron 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles using Land rovers and trucks. 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.Colour photograph of convoy of vehicles entering Warrnambool Victoria during 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles annual exercise, 1985 -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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The western plains of southern NSW provided ideal training areas for units practicing reconnaissance skills sso were frequently used.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 regimentColour photograph of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles soldiers standing on top of M113 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle { LRV ) during annual exercise near Balranald NSW, 1985. From left : Corporal Anton Florent, Corporal Peter Hicks, Lance Corporal Terry Mitchell.Centre group unknownAt right seated : Corporal Doug Cameron. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
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Unarmoured vehicles were classified as ' B ' vehicles. Armoured vehicles were claswsified as " A " vehicles. 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.Colour photograph of trucks halted on roadside during 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles ' B ' vehicle exercise in south-west Victoria, c. 1986. Skills practiced were driving and maintenance, radio communications and map reading. -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Document
Activities varied between centres - marches, flag raising, static display of vehicles. Low level recruiting was undertaken.Typed document titled " Australia Day Activities - Jan 83' giving instructions for A Squadron 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles activities in support of Australia Day celebrations at Albury, Benalla, Cobram, and Corowa 1983. 3 pages.