Historical information

This cummerbund is part of a winter mess dress uniform belonging to Bernard Farley during service with the Australian Airforce. Worn in 1978, this cummerbund style was first developed in the 1950s and continues to be worn as mess uniform in the present day.

Significance

This item has aesthetic significance and is a representative example of uniform design from the 1950s to present day. This item has clear provenance, having been donated by RSL member and Secretary (2019), Bernard Farley after its use during Bernard’s service in the Airforce. As a former member of the Australian Airforce and member of the Warrnambool ex-service community, Bernard’s uniform has great social significance, telling a broader story of life after service.

Physical description

Dark navy blue broad waist sash which forms part of a dress uniform. Elasticised woven fabric in a rectangular shape fastened with two strips of velcro. A label is attached to the interior along the seam attaching the velcro.

Inscriptions & markings

Label reads: “A.G.C.F../VIC. 1983/(broad arrow)/SIZE. 34/8440.S6.035.3816/NO./NAME”