Postage Stamp Chat Board & Stamp Bulletin Board Forum
 

All thanks to good 'ol TROVE http://trove.nla.gov.au/ (I love that site !)

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Collecting - Stamps, poster stamps and covers that feature Kangaroos.
Wanted: Illustrated Tourist cover of "Waratah Park", Sydney, NSW. Australia

This may have been Polly as it was often a nickname. This notice was for a child funeral in the Sydney Morning Herald on the 13th Jan 1942. If the parents were friends, Brian could have been echoing his mother's distress that eighteen months passed before she heard the news

(also from the Trove site)

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I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

from;
The Mail (Adelaide) 31 July 1943 p2


- Looks a bit like John Howard !

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Collecting - Stamps, poster stamps and covers that feature Kangaroos.
Wanted: Illustrated Tourist cover of "Waratah Park", Sydney, NSW. Australia

Letter Card numbered 83
Dated 25 Aug 1943

Dear Em,
I received a letter from John today but there have been none from you since I last wrote. His letter was dated the 19th so mail from N.T. is quicker than that from the south.
According to the latest figures it looks as though E.J. might just scrape in but it must have given him a shock.
By the way, is there any chance of sending some knitted socks up? These route marches are a bit hard on socks and I could do with a couple of pair.
The pictures are on this evening and I intend going although I don't know what is showing.
Have you had any news from Alan lately, he has not answered my letter yet but no doubt he is OK.
This letter is being written in Chinese fashion, starting from the back, but you should be able to follow it. Anyhow it only costs 1d air mail on account of its light weight.
Things are much the same here, we go for a 7 mile route march every morning except when on duty and we are becoming quite used to it.
Well, there is no more news to pass on at present so I shall close.
All the best
Brian

1943 election results: http://john.curtin.edu.au/electionleade ... tcome.html

E.J is Sir Eric John Harrison, United Australia Party candidate for Wentworth.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Harrison

1943 results for Wentworth Two-candidate preferred result
United Australia Eric Harrison Votes 36,871 % 51.6 swing -14.2
Labor Jessie Street Votes 34,536 % 48.4 swing +14.2
United Australia hold

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 84
Dated 27 Aug 1943

Dear Em,
There is not much news to pass on since I last wrote, no mail has come in and the last letter I had from you was written on the 12th.
Went to the pictures the night before last and saw "Her Man Friday" which I enjoyed very much.
I received an August "Digest of Digests" yesterday. It came from the publisher but I don't know who could have sent it, maybe it was the office.
Had another inoculation today and my arm is very stiff tonight. I don't know whether I have to get another one yet or not.
At present we are having rather a cool spell and it is noticeable in the mornings especially as we now get up at 6 or should I say, are supposed to get up then.
You might let me know the balance of the M.P. & B.St. a/cs when you next write. I still have a credit of £9 in my paybook so I am O.K. for cash at present.
They have just announced the appointment of Lord Mountbatten to the Asiatic and it will be interesting to see what effect it has on the Pacific.
There are certainly a lot of doubtful seats in the election but most of them should be cleared up in a few days.
Well that is all for now.
Best of wishes
Brian

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I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Brian is back after a very busy Christmas.


Letter numbered 85
Dated 29 Aug 1943

Dear Gordon,
I have just realised it is over a fortnight since I wrote to you, so here go a few lines.
The May Digest arrived yesterday together with a parcel of papers dated 13 - 15 July, but there were no letters.
I was on night work last evening and had a rotten night, only managed about three hours sleep so I am pretty tired today.
There is a shortage of water at present owing to the water truck breaking down and I have a pile of dirty clothes waiting washing.
A lot of chaps returned to camp today after a few weeks away and we are now back to eight men in a tent. Our officers however, apparently don't believe in equality of sacrifice as most of them have a tent to themselves.
What do you think of the election result especially regarding Wentworth?
At present I am reading "The Husband's Story", an American publication of about thirty years ago and a poor novel at that, still better than nothing. Try and get hold of "Deadline" if possible, you and Roy should enjoy it.
It is just on tea time so I shall close.
All the best
Brian
Letter 86 is missing



Letter numbered 87
Dated 2 Sept 1943

Dear Em,
I was very glad to receive your letter 124 of the 20th last night although it had been opened by censor 1393.
Glad to hear that my coupons have arrived however there is nothing I want to buy with them at present.
I gather from your letter that Alan is away from his unit which will account for his not receiving any mail. Has he been ill or at a school?
I am pleased that you are getting my mail in good time but the service from you is far from satisfactory. The papers I mentioned in my last letter were dated 9-13 July.
Saw a good picture, "The man who stayed for breakfast", last night together with some interesting shorts.
I mentioned previously that I could do with some socks and I was pleased to read that you have a pair nearly finished.
Please excuse this scribble but I am writing this in bed and there is a noisy card game in progress at the same time making it hard to concentrate.
There is no sign of the packet you sent but most likely it is held up with the rest of the mail. Well I will close now as it is getting dark.
Best of wishes
Brian



Letter 88 is missing


Letter numbered 89
Dated 5 Sept 1943

Dear Gordon,
I have managed to obtain a green envelope at last, so have a chance to write about several things. The enclosed cuttings will interest you if you have not already seen them, in any case file them in the usual place.
I have not seen many recent papers but I understand that the price limits on certain preference shares have been removed and I noticed that some McNivens changed hands for 25/- the other day. As there appears to be plenty of buyers at present it is no doubt advisable to hold on to them although they can't go much higher, still it is so hard finding anything else with a decent return these days.
Both B.W and J.S.H.S. seem to be rising but you can keep me in touch with any changes. Goodness knows how the new government's fiscal policy will affect things.
The mail situation was relieved by the arrival of Em's letter 127 last night and I shall write to her tomorrow.
I gather that Alan has been in hospital but you did not mention what his complaint was, I shall drop him another line in a day or so.
Have you seen or heard anything of Les recently or has he retired to his shell?
Will close now as it is time to have a look at the football.
All the best
Brian


Letter numbered 90
Dated 6 Sept 1943

Dear Em,
As I mentioned in my letter to Gordon yesterday, your No 127 arrived a couple of days ago after having been censored by 1722. Letters 119/123 and 126 are still missing.
Glad to hear some news of Harold, he must be kept very busy with extra work and the addition at home.
The censor deleted the place where Bill is but if Joan is going there I suppose he is still in N.S.W.
I received parcel 18 posted on the 2nd of last month so it made good time. Some newspapers also arrived but I have not opened them yet.
At present I am reading "Ragged Trousered Philanthropists" which you sent the other day and am finding it quite enjoyable.
Was on shift last night and on piquet this evening so this is being written in between times.
I am very sorry to hear that you had such a bad time with the flu and hope you are over it by now. It is times like that you miss Lillian.
Had no rain the last couple of days and I was able to get all my washing dry yesterday however I think it will be wet again before long.
I don't suppose you know where Ted is now or whether he has finished his W.A.G. course.
It is almost time to eat so I will close.
Best of wishes
Brian

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I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

I love the way Brian says he needs socks and our minds would not think 'knitted socks' would they? Em is knitting some socks for Brian, keeping her boys feet warm and dry.

You hadn't posted for a while John but I thought you must have been busy with the festivities,,,,love this topic....only 3000 more letters to type and translate

Sorry, the last letter should have been dated the 6th.



Letter numbered 91
Dated 9 Sept 1943

Dear Em,
There was a concert on Monday and Tuesday nights and pictures last eveningso I have not had a chance to write for a couple of days.
Since last writing, fourteen letters have arrived from you and Gordon also one dated the 2nd from Alan. Strange to say, none had been censored but I understand that the mail from N.S.W. went to the wrong place. There are too many letters to answer all at one so I shall start with 119 to 123 inclusive.
Fancy Boof turning up again, I take it that he is not staying at K. now but I don't suppose they have seen the last of him.
Sorry that so much flu has been about down there and hope that no other member of the family has gone down with it. I was amused to read of Mabs visit but as Colin would say "it is just one of those things".
Thanks for the photo of Joan and Bill, however I am sorry that the ones of myself did not come out. Perhaps I was too much for the camera. Incidentally, my photo was taken yesterday but it was only for my pay book so I can't send you a copy.
Alan is out of hospital now and he mentioned that he had received two letters from you and also a cake. By the way, the tent finished my cake yesterday and everyone seemed to enjoy it however I still have the canned stuff left.
Saw a remarkable picture last night called "Swamp Water", an unusual story very well acted and well worth seeing.
I now know where Bill is and feel sorry for him as it is a rotten place from all accounts, and J is silly following him as he may not be there long.
Naturally we are all very bucked with the news that Italy is out of the war also of the landings at Lae. I wonder where the next place will be.
Well I shall close now otherwise I shall have nothing to write about tomorrow.
All the best
Brian

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I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

I read up on the landings at Lae and Italy out of the war. I can't believe how up to date they have news of events...as they happen almost.

Good news traveled fast, Brummie.

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Peter
Hawthorn - AFL Premiers 1961, 1971, 1976, 1978, 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991, 2008.

Letter numbered 92
Dated 11 Sept 1943

Dear Gordon
The mail is now arriving faster than I can answer it, Nos 135,137 and 138 came last night together with the packet so things are now back to normal.
I am sorry to hear that the car has been giving so much trouble recently especially now that it is so hard to get spare parts.
Thanks for sending on the cuttings re Katanga, there is no doubt about some people but after all, good luck to them.
My letters seem to reach you in good time and I am glad to say your last only took three days.
It is hard luck that Roy has been so ill but I hope he is able to do a bit of work by now.
Alan informed me that S.H's were paying 3% final and from the figures quoted in your letter I gather that they are gaining popularity with buyers if not with the troops who have to eat their damned dehydrated products.
By the way, Alan seems very interested in my affairs and gave me some advice as well as information. If you hear of him making any plunges on the "change" you might let me know.
You were right about Harrison being returned as I noticed in today's paper that the majority was about 2000.
Mabel certainly panics when the mail is delayed and I fancy that a certain person will have something to say about her actions.
At present we are receiving about one blade each week and I am able to manage with that however I shall let you know when I require some.
They held a sports meeting here this afternoon between the various sections and I am glad to say that "D" section won. Although I did not take part in any events I understand that the unit is giving a dinner to the whole section, so I hope to partake at some future date.
Well that is all the news for the present so cheerio and all the best.
Brian

Katanga was a pretty successful racehorse and from this and previous mentions it seems that Roy and Mabel were part owners.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 93
Dated 12 Sept 1943

Dear Em,
I was very glad to receive your letter 139 of the 8th this morning, only three days in transit. The mail seems to be back to normal again and I am looking forward to letters arriving regularly once more.
I forgot to mention in yesterday's letter that the packet contained the socks, thanks ever so much for sending them.
You must be having a hard time obtaining meat now as today's paper said it was almost unobtainable. Hope you have some tinned stuff to fall back on.
Wrote to Alan last night but did not have much news to pass on. He mentioned in his letter that the wedding was very nicely done and he does not appear to be put out by it although he admitted that it caused a bit of an upheaval.
The weather has been perfect the last few days although still cold in the early mornings. Hope it is getting warmer down there.
I am reading "Self" by Beverley Nichols at present but don't think much of it. He is too much of a cynic for my liking.
For your information, I have received all letters from 119 to 139 so none went astray despite the delay.
That is all for the present.
All the best,
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 94
Dated 13 Sept 1943

Dear Gordon
Received your letter 140 of the 9th this morning and I must say you are developing into a regular correspondent. Parcel No 19 posted on the 5th also arrived so it appears that the postal service is doing some work at last.
I forgot to thank you previously for the stamps and air mail stickers you sent. Both come in very handy.
There is not much doing here at present, a few route marches and the usual routine. The evenings are so dull that I am considering another trip to town one night and goodness only knows that place was dead 20 years ago.
The news is still very good and the arrival of the Italian fleet at Malta must have presented a wonderful sight.
The dinner I mentioned in my last letter is supposed to come off tomorrow night and we are all looking forward to it.
I notice that all grocery prices are to be fixed and no doubt it will indirectly put some extra work on to you.
Sorry I can't fill a few more pages but you know what it is like when there is not much doing.
All the best
Brian

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I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

I should have read further down on you post to see you had mentioned katanga as a racehorse. I searched and all I came up with was mining, so thought maybe he had shares in it.

I wonder whose wedding Alan talkes about?

Can't work out the S.H. who has the dehydrated products.

He got his sox then

Hi Brummie
The wedding was Joan and Bill's, I'm assuming. Brian obviously missed it being stationed too far away but Alan was "south of the Brisbane line".

For any overseas visitors, the wartime government drew a line across the country taking in all the cities from Brisbane southwards. This southern area was to be the area they would defend should the Japanese land in the north and all the territory north of this line would be given up.

It was not such a bad scheme as north of the line was extremely inhospitable territory and the logistics of moving troops there would have been a nightmare. When I lived in Townsville in the late 1960s, the locals were still annoyed at this.

In reality, if the Japanese had been more successful up north, they would probably have landed their troops down south anyway. They knew the way, as they showed when they sent midget submarines into Sydney harbour.

Here are a few results for Katanga.
Several race horses have won the Chipping Norton Stakes more than once. Lough Neagh is the first multiple winner of the Chipping Norton Stakes as he won in 1936 and 1937 and Katanga copied that feat when he won back-to-back Chipping Norton Stakes in 1944 and 1945. In 1949 and 1950, Carbon Copy won the race and Carioca also won the Chipping Norton Stakes of 1953 and 1955.

He raced several times against a champion mare called Flight and being a stallion, he attacked her at every opportunity. He seemed to be fairly unpopular with the public for this as this article shows.
http://www.smh.com.au/sport/horseracing/whether-lust-or-hate-fixation-on-flight-put-katanga-off-his-stride-20120107-1pp7i.html

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I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 95
Dated 15 Sept 1943

Dear Em
Your letter 141 of the 10th arrived the evening before last and I am very glad that you are feeling fit again. I also received two packets, some newspapers and a "Lilliput" so that just about clears up the outstanding mail matter.
I suppose Roy has had his X rays by now and I hope the result was satisfactory. It can't be much fun for Mabel having him at home now that Isobel has gone.
The dinner I mentioned previously came off last night, and was it any good. There was duck, chicken, ham etc. followed by fruit salad and cream but what is more important we had plates. As there were about 90 of us it meant a lot of work but we all enjoyed it very much.
I am going to the pictures tonight, one of the Andy Hardy series is showing and should be OK.
Had a letter from Bruce a few days ago. He has finished at Coota and expects to go to a bombing school after some leave.
I note what you say about pickets but fortunately I don't think I shall be doing any more for a while.
Phil seems to be having a good time south of Brisbane and I wonder whether he will go to another school when the present one finishes.
All the best
Brian




Letter numbered 96
Dated 16 Sept 1943
Dear Em
Just a short note to answer your letter 142 which came this morning. The envelope had been in the water but fortunately your writing was quite legible.
You certainly had fun with the gee gees the other Saturday and it only goes to show how the game is run.
There is no need to send J.S.H's balance sheet or cheque on until you hear from me again. They seem to be having trouble in covering up their profits.
Went to the pictures last night and saw "The Hardys Ride High", not a bad show but the first picture was N.B.G.
Today has been very sultry and a bush fire came quite close to us but it was extinguished before any damage was done.
It appears that the Yanks overstepped the mark in Italy and it is to be hoped that the position does not become critical.
Spent the morning with the dentist and had a proper filling put in the one he started about a month ago. Another tooth which he says is O.K. seems to have an abscess on it so we shall see.
Well that is all for now as I want to have an early night.
All the best
Brian


Letter numbered 97
Dated 19 Sept 1943 (Em has written 16/9 on the envelope but it is dated as shown)

Dear Em
Just a short note to answer your letter 143 of the 13th which arrived several days ago. I am sorry I was unable to write before but this is the first chance I have had.
I was amused at your remarks regarding the missing letters and I expect I shall require another day off when the next mail arrives.
Went to the pictures last night and saw "Border Patrol" and "Friendly Enemy". The first, of course, was a western but the latter was very enjoyable even though it was propaganda.
Sorry to hear that Roy's illness was a return of the old trouble and I suppose it is a case for strict diet.
Thanks for the information re the bank accounts, £146.4.5 and £19.1.5 is fairly satisfactory although I would like to see more in the latter.
Have had no more news of Alan or anyone else since I last wrote so shall have to depend on you for news.
Spent today doing some washing and watching the two-up, and believe me, there is plenty of both. Fortunately the weather has been perfect and looks like staying that way.
I understand that the meat strike ended some days ago so you should be back on your normal "rations" by now.
Well that is all for the present.
All the best and love,
Brian



This postmark may give an indication of where in Northern Australia he was stationed. Does anyone know? The last figure looks like a 5 or a 6.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 98
Dated 23 Sept 1943 (Em has written 27/9 on the envelope)

Dear Em,
I have been unable to write for a while as I have been away from camp the last five days but when I returned last night I found letters 144 to 147 waiting for me.
Had quite a good time while away but the full story will have to wait. You can't tell me anything about the army after this.
J. & B. seem to be having a good time in Melbourne and no doubt they continue to be "so happy". Apparently the border was no barrier to the young lady.
I note that you have heard from Nancy and expect you will be glad to seeher in the near future.
So you have the "loot" staying with you/ He must have a good base job if he is doing the same work as Don. By the way is he army or navy?
The last few days have been very warm and I saw a few large bushfires yesterday. All our water is chlorinated now which makes it rather unpleasant, especially these hot days when you want to drink so much.
You can send the J.S. cheque on now but keep the balance sheet. I shall let you know later what to do with the B.W. one.
They put my photo in my book today and it certainly does not flatter me. Will drop you another line tomorrow.
All the best
Brian

Note: Interesting that he found Chlorinated water so distasteful but then, right up until the 1960s Melbourne was rated as having the purest water in the world and he would have been used to something similar in Sydney. We have rainwater tanks at the farm and I can't drink the water in Melbourne these days.



Letter numbered 99
Dated 24 Sept 1943
Dear Em,
The mail service has certainly improved, letters 148 and 149 of the 19th and 20th arrived this morning. I shall be interested to hear whether you received my 97.
While I was away I had a few hours leave in one of the larger towns which was quite a change after months in this place.
I suppose Roy was busy with the shareholders meeting last Monday and you might let me know if anything unusual came up.
Guess you are glad to be on your own again provided of course that "Boof" has not arrived since you last wrote.
I forgot to mention that the photo of Gordon, J and yourself arrived in your last batch of letters and I am very glad to have it.
Today has been quite warm and I was glad of a pint before tea even though the brew was not the best.
Wrote to John last night, I owed him two letters so it was time I dropped him a line.
The canteen stocks have improved the last few days so there is no need to send any more parcels for a while.
I have not been on shift for the last three weeks and am tired of hanging around the camp, however I may get some work to do next week.
Well, that is all for now, shall write to Gordon tomorrow.
All the best
Brian



Letter numbered 100
Dated 25 Sept 1943

Dear Gordon,
Received your letter 150 last night only two days in transit. You will notice that I have reached No 100 but I don't think I am in the race to catch you now.
Sorry to hear that Em has picked up a fresh cold and hope it won't prove serious. She is certainly having a bad time of it lately.
I mentioned in a previous letter to send J.S's cheque on but not the balance sheet. Let me know whether they made any provision for taxation or are they waiting for the assessment to come in.
Today is Saturday and I have ventured a whole 3/- on Air Link in the last race at Sydney. Needless to say the camp S.P. man is very busy.
During the week I made a new will in your favour appointing the Permanent as executor. It is dated the 23 Sept. and will be held at the District Records office.
I suppose you are glad H has returned to Melbourne. Between him and "Boof" you have had a lot of hard entertaining to do lately.
Two parcels of newspapers arrived today dated 29 July - 5 August and I was pleased to get them. It is a pity they take so long but I suppose I should be thankful they arrive at all.
I notice that W.R.D. has been appointed to the Sydney Turf Club and it says he is a race horse owner though I don't know the names of any of his nags.
Your summing up of Mac is the same as mine and I am not going to run after him.
Well it is nearly time for that race so I shall close.
All the best
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 102
Dated 27 Sept 1943

Dear Em,
I had quite a satisfactory mail last night. Letter 152 from Gordon arrived together with one from Alan, also the June Digest and the Sydneian.
Hope the Ingleburn throat has improved ere this arrives and guess you will be glad to get about again, however don't go overdoing it.
Both P.H.C. and Len appear to have plenty of time to spare and I would like to change places with him for a while.
Alan remembered that he had not heard from you for a while but knew you had not been well. He still seems to be interested in the horses and speaks of "doubles" for the Epsom.
I have not seen a paper or heard the news for a few days but conclude everything must be going O.K. It does not take long for any startling news to get around.
John mentioned in his last letter that he had spoken to some of the old Strathfield boys on the phone, so you can guess where they are. I hope one or two of them stay there for years.
Have been buying biscuits by the 5lb (2kg) tin lately which lasts the tent about two days. Anyway it helps to fill in between meals.
Well that is all for now, it is hard to fill two pages when you write every day.
Best of wishes
Brian



Letter numbered 104
Dated 30 Sept 1943

Dear Gordon,
I received your 154 of the 26th this morning and am very glad to hear that Em is improving. As you say, a few weeks away would do her good but it must be very hard finding anywhere suitable at present.
I note that you had not heard from me since my 97 at the time of writing, however you should have received a couple of letters last Monday.
Worked last night and was fairly busy so took things easy today.
Two parcels of newspapers have just come in but I have not opened them yet.
There is a concert party showing this evening and it is supposed to be a good turn out.
We ran out of water this afternoon and were unable to have anything to drink for tea tonight. If they can't supply water here it is a poor outlook for later on.
I have not answered Alan's letter yet but may find time tomorrow. Well I must cut this letter short as it is time to go over and take up a position at this concert.
All the best.
Brian.



Letter numbered 105
Dated 1 Oct 1943

Dear Em,
I am on shift this afternoon and intend going to the pictures tonight so will take this chance to drop you a few lines.
The socks have arrived and I should be OK in that respect for some time to come. The papers which came yesterday were dated around 18 Sept so did not take as long as most of them.
I went to the concert last night and quite enjoyed it, in fact I think it was one of the best shows we have had up here.
We are having a cold spell at the moment and it is noticeable after the warm days of last week. Wish we could get some rain to settle the dust but I expect it will flood us out when it does come.
Today's paper states that the Allies are rushing on to Naples, wonder when we shall hear some news of the P.O.W.s.
I have had no letters since I last wrote but expect one should arrive this evening and I hope to hear that you are improving.
They are holding some picnic races near here tomorrow but I intend keeping well away. No one knows one horse from another so it can only be a day out for the books.
No more news at present so shall close, cheerio and all the best.
Brian

Note: For non- Australian readers, the seasons are reversed in Australia to the northern hemisphere. This means that winter in Australia corresponds with summer in the USA and Europe. September in Sydney is early Spring, cold and wet which is why there are so many references to Em's sore throat and colds and flu.

Brian, on the other hand, is in the tropics in Northern Australia so he is still in the northern "Dry" season. His expectation of floods when the wet season or monsoon comes in a few months is well founded

This is the last letter of 1943 in the collection and there is a break now of 12 months. It may be that he was transferred closer to home and did not feel the need to write during this period though this is not mentioned in any of the previous letters. The next letter dated 18.9.44 is from a new location and will be posted shortly.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

You've been very busy here John.

I have always pictured Brian in PNG, is he in Northern Australia?

MrBoggler will know about the postmark if he sees this thread, he's clever

Who knows what could have happened with a years worth of letters, if indeed as you say, there ever were any.

I don't think he was posted much closer to home, his service record (page 8/10) doesn't appear to reflect a major relocation until November, 1944. Though where he disembarked I can't decipher; not as long a wait to find out if there are 12 months worth of missing letters.

Are the letters still numbered, is there a large gap or do they appear to have started over? Sorry, I did liken your exercise to a Victorian serial novel. Well, Brian's (one sided) "conversations" have me hooked.....the anticipation.

_________________
Michelle

Hi John,

Hope you had a good Christmas and that the New Year will be good for you.

I'm reading the latest instalment of Brian's letters, and have a few interesting points :

re letter 93 : Joan and Bill were married in Sydney on 30 June 1943

SH is probably Stedman Henderson, which is also referred to in the letters as JS or JSH

re letter 100 : WRD is probably Wilfred Robert Dovey, who has an entry in the Australian Dictionary of Biography. He was a lawyer, and later a controversial judge in NSW. He leased successful racehorses and was a foundation member (vice-chairman) of the Sydney Turf Club in 1943. His daughter, Margaret, married Gough Whitlam. I don't know whether the Watts or Williamsons had any direct contact with him or not.

Cheers,

Phil Williamson

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 1
Dated 18.9.44

Dear Em,
I arrived this morning at yet another staging camp, however I am closer to the unit which I hope to see in a few days time. You must be wondering what has happened to me but I have been delayed in every way you could imagine and shall be more than glad when the trip is over.
This camp is a lot better than the one where I last wrote from although that had improved a lot since I was there 12 months ago.
Strange to say, the chaps I left behind to work on the wharf have caught up with me. They did not have to do any work and were around Sydney until the following Tuesday so I made a mistake not staying with them.
I heard on the news the other night that Alan had charge of the Legation for the present but apart from that and a few race results I have heard very little and of course have had no mail.
Did you back Katanga on Saturday I see it came second and wondered if you were interested.
I expect Mabel will be returning shortly and guess you shall hear a long story about everything.
There are pictures on here tonight so that will help fill in the timeand there is also a fairly good canteen.
You will have to excuse this writing but the pen is N.B.G. I shall write again in a day or so and let you know what is doing.
Best of wishes
Brian

Brian has started his numbering again at 1. As you can see he has been in Sydney and has stopped back at the camp in Northern Australia on his way to somewhere new. I've managed to resist the temptation to read ahead but unfortunately, I have read his war records so I have a fair idea where he may be heading.

I'm typing this on the laptop in front of the tv, watching Australia v India and just watched Kohli get his century so I stopped working for a while. Time to settle down again and try to get another couple of letters typed.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 2
Dated 21.9.44

Dear Gordon,
The letter writing has started again although there is not much news to pass on.
I expect you have received the couple of lettercards I posted on the way up but as they were sent from such odd places there may have been some delay with them.
The weather is still wet and it has not helped me settle down any. We are still on the damn fool lectures although we did a short march this afternoon.
I think Kel will be very sorry e is coming back. Everyone seems to be under instructions to rub the dirt in and the few changes have been for the worse.
I have not heard any news today as there are no wirelesses around and the papers are very scarce.
The canteen has very little as usual but it is not necessary for you to send any parcels at present.
We have been asked to limit our letters to two pages as the censor is so busy, so what, anyway I had better close.
All the best
Brian
P.S. Have you heard anything of John Brown?

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

It is very nice of Phil Williamson to fill in a few of the gaps isn't it? Gave me a bit more reading to do too.

It sounds like Brian was home or close to home as he didn't send any letters and says 'here we go again with the letter writing'. What do you think?

PS: Stop watching the cricket John!

Letter numbered 3
Dated 22.9.44

Dear Em,
I was very pleased to receive your letter No 5 this morning and seeing it was only posted on the 20th, it made very good time.
Yes, your guess was right about the letter card and I had two and a half days there.
I gather from your letter that XB 2359 would arrive at Brisbane today so it will be a while before I see him. He was lucky to get another five days.
Sorry to hear that Joan hasn't been too good but it does not appear to be delaying M's return. Do you think she got any "dope" from Bert about the horses?
I see from the cutting you sent that J.S.H. had a good year still I won't cry over that. It remains to be seen what sort of balance sheet BWs can produce.
We went for an eight mile hike this morning and it has made me rather tired although it got some of the beer out of me despite the fact that it was showery all day. I still have Wednesday's washing on the line.
I am on guard tomorrow evening so will not be writing again before Sunday.
Best wishes
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Yes I agree. He talks of being in Sydney before letter 1. I think he must still be in Australia as he sounds as if he was considering how to catch up with Roy (I think Phil said XB 2359 was Roy's phone number) in Brisbane.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Hi John,
Don't know whether this is of any use to you, but I have attached a short movie clip of Brian Watt, taken by Ted Williamson in about 1967 in our back yard, when Brian visited Adelaide. Unfortunately the film is silent.
Cheers,
Phil Williamson

http://www.youtube.com/embed/0EnaWzTTHWk

I hope this works. I've put it on youtube so we can all see it. You will need to use the back button afterwards or right click the reference and open in a new tab. Brian would have been around 45 when this was taken.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

It is so nice to see our 'uncle Brian', don't you feel like we are all part of his family? Thank you Phil for sharing Brian with us and to you John for bringing him to life.

Great stuff ! Thankyou John and Phil
I have thoroughly enjoyed this thread !

For those that have read his service records, where do they say he was during the 12 months that there are no letters ?

_________________

Collecting - Stamps, poster stamps and covers that feature Kangaroos.
Wanted: Illustrated Tourist cover of "Waratah Park", Sydney, NSW. Australia

That is a great phrase what does it mean ?
get stuck into the work I'm guessing

_________________

Collecting - Stamps, poster stamps and covers that feature Kangaroos.
Wanted: Illustrated Tourist cover of "Waratah Park", Sydney, NSW. Australia

From what I can see of Brain's record his leave isn't recorded and I think that would be more likely to account for his time in Sydney. I assume this given the movements actually recorded - I can't see the army moving a signalman from Sydney to Ravenshoe on a two weeks on, two off roster. Pure assumption on my part I admit, but makes more sense to tighten rosters to his unit close to Ravenshoe, than transit him from Sydney on top of that; if you get what I trying to say.

From his disembarkment at Cairns in Feb., 1943 there is no further entry until Feb., 1944 when he was "Detached to 2/5 Aust Sup Depot Coy". He then rejoined his unit later in the month. Then in March, April and May/June of 1944 he was "Detached to Ravenshoe Camp Area" for a couple of weeks at a time before rejoining his unit. The next entry after June, 1944 isn't until Nov., 1944. Since John has posted letter 1 dated 18th September, 1944 not a long wait for those who haven't read his service record to "see" where he heads off to next. I don't want to be a spoiler (though I must say it hasn't squashed my anticipation).

I add my thanks to Phil and John for sharing that clip of Brian. I can see the young man that wrote these letters in that clip.

_________________
Michelle

"In late November 1942 General Blamey ordered a survey of the Atherton Tableland with the intention of developing facilities for a rehabilitation and training area for Australian troops recently returned from the Middle East. Known as the ‘Atherton Project’, the scheme had three key purposes–recuperate troops in a cooler climate while engaged in jungle warfare training; provide suitable hospitalisation for malaria and tropical disease cases; and locate personnel and maintenance installations close to the New Guinea frontline with access to railway and port facilities.

From December 1942 the headquarters of the Australian Army in north Queensland transferred from Townsville to the Atherton Tableland with the main administrative base established around the town of Atherton and the nearby settlement of Tolga. A huge schedule of construction work commenced in January 1943 involving the building of tent encampments, hutments, stores, bakeries, mess kitchens, entertainment halls, hospitals, sewage plants, army farms and a war cemetery.

Units of the Australian 6th and 7th Divisions arrived on the Tableland in January 1943 and began establishing tent encampments around the settlements of Wongabel, Wondecla and Ravenshoe."

This information on Ravenshoe camp comes from here:

http://www.publicworks.qld.gov.au/sites/qldwwiiplaces/theServices/Pages/TheAustralianArmy.aspx

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

I spent a couple of days in Ravenshoe back in the late 1980s. My clearest memories are of the motel (the Cool Moon) we stayed at, no air conditioning (fans to circulate the air), no room service - worked late the first night, went to bed hungry, no amenities other than tea and coffee, and the town was closed for the night. The drive in from Cairns, it looked so much closer on the map back in my office.

That said it was a beautiful area, the few locals I spoke to talked of the areas history in timber; a very topical point at that time; but I can't remember anything with regard to military involvment in the area. Perhaps 20+ years has faded my memory.

_________________
Michelle

Letter No 4 is missing





Letter numbered 5
Dated 25.9.44

Dear Em,
I don't know whether your numbering is wrong but letter No. 8 of the 22 arrived today. Should it have been No.7? Glad to hear you received my note of the 18th, yes you are right again.
With regard to that book, I don't think it is worthwhile sending up as I can't carry it around and it would only get knocked about. A Bulletin and two Australian Digests arrived today so I have something to read.
We went for another nine mile hike this morning and I collected plenty of mud. It is still raining and I have no clean clothes left, goodness knows when I shall get something dry.
It is a pity Harold has to go to Strathalbyn and I guess he will be glad to get home again. Did he mention anything about the rest of the clan?
The food here at the moment is not the best and you need a microscope to see the breakfast they give us. However, things may improve. I must close now and dig up a bit of supper and believe me the larder is very low.
All the best,
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 7
Dated 30.9.44

Dear Gordon,
Once again I have two of your letters to answer, Nos 11 and 12. I guessed you would hear plenty about the Melbourne visit and no doubt there will be more to come.
Roy should have a good three weeks away but I expect he will be very busy as it is some time since he was in N.Z.
Sorry to hear the car has been giving trouble, I don't suppose your tyres will last much longer.
I spent all the afternoon building the tent up so we are now a little more comfortable however I feel dog tired tonight and could not be bothered going to the pictures.
We were out all day yesterday on a march but they took things easy so it was no hardship.
The rain seems to have left us and the last few days have been fine although it is still cold at night and in the mornings. I am hoping for a fine day tomorrow for the washing as it is the only chance we get now that we are not working on any shift.
News is very scarce so I am afraid I shall have to close.
All the best,
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letters 6,8 and 9 are missing



Letter numbered 10
Dated 6.9.44 (Should be 6.10.44. Brian has made a mistake in the letter and Em has copied it onto the envelope. All the handwriting on the envelope is the same so it is probable that Em catalogued Gordon's letters as well as her own.)

Dear Gordon,
I have just finished having a shower after a nineteen mile route march and am I tired. Fortunately it was a cool day and I stood up to it O.K.
Your letters 14 and 15 have arrived, also a parcel of Heralds, a Bulletin and a Lilliput so I can't complain about the mail.
I am amused about your remarks about Miss Monnice and can imagine the kind of dope you have to put up with.
Len seems to be getting things easy and it will be interesting to see where he goes to now.
Thanks for forwarding the airgraph, you might send up some forms also Ted's address as I have mislaid it.
I saw "Santa Fe Trail" the other night, not a bad show although there were some "cuts" in it. I may go again tomorrow night to see "Twin Beds".
Yesterday I received a new pay book as the other was filled. Hope this one will last as it takes about three years to fill them.
There is a very cold wind blowing at the moment so I think I'll hit the hay.
All the best
Brian

Note: Ted may have been in England by this time. He sent airgraphs (in the US they were called V-mail) to Em, one of which I have and will show when it comes up. I have airgraphs in my collection from the US, England and Italy from British and American troops but had never seen them in Australia. We obviously had the technology to print them out here as Ted's is in an Australian special envelope and it sounds like Brian is asking for some forms so he can return one to Ted. I would be keen to hear from anyone who has any information on Australian airgraphs.

Airgraphs were messages written on a special form then photographed and transported as microfilm. This had the advantage of saving space in the transport planes and maintaining a copy if the plane was shot down on the way. At the destination, they were printed out and delivered. Here is a newspaper advertisement for airgraphs from my own collection.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 11
Dated 8.10.44.
Dear Em,
Once again I must ask you to excuse the pencil but you know the position.
Went to the pictures last night and quite enjoyed "Twin Beds" even though I had seen it before.
I managed to do all the washing yesterday afternoon and have spent most of today on the spine reading the papers etc. which arrived the other day.
Your letters Nos 16 and 17 have arrived and I note that some chocolate and a cake are on the way.
Yes, I know of the chap you mentioned, he occupies a rather insignificant position around these parts.
I suppose Fred Read is due for a bit of leave now as he must have been up there nearly twelve months, do you know what crowd he is with?
Glad the coupons arrived safely also the cheque, you know what to do with them.
I am not too pleased with B.W's latest, I noticed in the paper that they touched 19 (shillings?) but have apparently dropped since then. There does not appear to be any chance of them improving until after the war. The sale of N.N. was certainly surprising but I agree that it is worth while to hold on.
I also noticed in the paper that 12 Wentworth Rd was sold for £7500.
The weather is still erratic, fine one minute and overcast the next and cool all the time.
There is quite a gambling wave going through the camp at the moment and the sponsors of "House", "Crown and Anchor" and "Two Up" are very active. Even a "Roulette" wheel has made an appearance. If the camp is not broke before payday it won't be the fault of the promoters.
Well I must be off now and get afternoon tea, Ovaltine this time at 2/6 a tin.
Best of wishes
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 12
Dated 10.10.44.
Dear Em,
I was very glad to get your letter No 18 of 5 pages yesterday. Hope you had a good day on Sunday and guess you gathered a few more "lines". No doubt you will hear more from "Althorpe" when Les returns.
I see in our paper that there has been a printing strike since last Saturday and you are without newspapers, more worries for Warwick.
(Note: Sir Warwick Fairfax was the managing director of John Fairfax and Sons, publishers of the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age in Melbourne )
Things are much the same here, marches, Morse and an occasional day on the range.
Kel expects to leave us shortly, he has been boarded B2? But does not know where he will go from here. I think he has started things moving already so maybe he will be home shortly.
The canteen excelled itself tonight by having a limited supply of biscuits and chocolate so things are a little easier.
With regard to the blue metal, do you know what their par value is and if anything is doing in that line. You might also let me know the balance of the accounts.
Well, I think that is all for now so I'll close.
Best wishes
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Sorry for the long break. Things have been a bit hectic lately. I received this email a while back. It never ceases to amaze me how far Stampboards reaches.

I’ve just read through all Brian Watt’s letters – what a find.
And so very kind of you to offer them to Phil Williamson in England.
I’m not a member of the Williamson family but a local historian and have been asked to put together a brief history of 20 Greengate Road, Killara built in 1934 for Roy and Mabel by HE Fry.
Probably no more than 1000 words on the family with a little on the house, architect and builder.
The house is listed.
You can see a photo of it on the Heritage Office website, www.heritage.nsw.gov.au by searching the address.

So it was wonderful to find AP Williamson’s story online.
Made my job instantly easier.
I’d like to quote from this but also make sure I credit APW correctly.
However I can’t find a contact within the story – am I right in thinking Phil is APW?
If so, do you know his full name and any publishing details?
Regards,
Kathie Rieth
Sydney.

Heeeeeres Brian!



Letter numbered 13
Dated 11.10.44.
Dear Em,
I have just returned from seeing Kel off, he started on the first part of his trip tonight and was not very pleased about leaving us. I think he will have to talk hard and fast if he is to avoid a job around these parts.
Your letter No 19 of the 8th arrived today and I was interested to hear of your visits of Saturday.
After what Ron says, I guess it is wise to get out of McN at the present price. In the event of the limit being lifted on the metal you can try and get me 200 up to 12/6.

About one inch here has been cut out by the censor

There are pictures on tonight but I couldn't see myself sitting through Abbot and Costello so did not go.
Had a bottle of Coopers Ale this evening so we were able to toast Kel's departure in the appropriate manner.
The weather here must be the same as yours, beautiful fine days, just as Spring should be.
That is about all for now
All the best
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 14
Dated 13.10.44.
Dear Em,
I have been doing very well with regard to mail lately, the chocolate and sugar arrived yesterday together with some "Heralds" dated 25/27 ult. There were also a couple of Penguin books which John Brown was good enough to send up.
Your letter No 21 of the 10th arrived this morning and part of your remarks about the printing strike had been cut out although there was no censor stamp on the envelope which showed no sign of being opened. In future I think you should write the date across the back of the flap and register any letters which might contain offensive remarks.
I noticed in the paper that a Quantas plane had crashed in the harbour and I hope it had none of my mail aboard.
Today I managed to buy10lb of sugar which will keep us going for a while but I expect the packet you sent will come in handy later on.
I have a two bob (20c) interest in a double for tomorrow, Silver Link andKiaree and if it comes off I collect £5.
I see in the paper that Joy Peterson has a daughter, it is a wonder you hadn't heard about it.
Apparently Angus is not having much of a time, I have not heard from him since I came back so perhaps he did not receive my letter.
Thanks for forwarding Ted's address. I shall write to him when the airgraph forms arrive.
You must be having good weather down there, 100º is unusual for this time of the year.
We have pictures on tomorrow night but as I expect to be out all day I may be too tired to go.
I must close now as the light is rotten like everything else around here.
All the best
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Well you certainly made somebody very happy John as they have all the info at their fingertips . Nice to see what their house was like too.

I was just re-reading some of the Williamson site and they are very lucky someone had the forthought to record all the information with added snippets which makes it a pleasure to read.

The Qantas he was talking about was probably this one:-

Short ‘Empire’, VH-ABB ‘Coolangatta’ of QANTAS. Impressed by RAAF as A18-13 and allocated to 11 Squadron RAAF. It was returned to QANTAS on 13 July 1943, but crashed in Sydney Harbour on 11 October 1944.

I think Brian is starting to get gloomy, as I suppose most of them would have at this stage of the war, when he says in his last sentence "I must close now as the light is rotten like everything else around here." Poor uncle Brian

Thanks for posting more of the letters John, they are great.

Thanks Brummie. That certainly fits the Quantas reference. This next letter also refers to some interesting things.



Letter numbered 15
Dated 15.10.44.
Dear Em,
I have just finished writing to John Brown and now it is your turn. Quite a bit of mail has arrived during the last couple of days, letters 22 and 23 while this morning No 20 turned up. It was on the boat that crashed and was forwarded under another cover with a note of explanation.
It was still damp and the ink had run a little but the writing was still legible. Needless to say the nibs were rusty and useless but those enclosed in a later letter were alright.
The airgraph forms and another parcel of Heralds also arrived but I have been too busy cleaning up to look at them yet.
Glad to hear that Roy arrived safely, does he expect o go to the south island or is all his business in Auckland and Wellington.
I am pleased that you had such a satisfactory talk with Mr. Storey and hope everything turns out as he expects.
Thanks for attending to the stock notice and putting it into the right place. Don't worry about a fountain pen as I always seem to ruin the nibs, anyway I doubt if you would get one these days without paying black market prices.
I have just finished reading "The Marriage of Corbal" by Sabatini and quite enjoyed it.
Last night I saw "Go West Young Lady" and "Confessions of Boston Blackie", both shows were only just passable.
The tent I am in at the moment is mad on crossword puzzles and they sit up half the night working them out. It beats me where they get them all from and as you might guess, my dictionary is much in demand.
I was amused at the paragraph you marked concerning the Portland butcher shop, they don't know what they are up against.
Well it is nearly time for the usual Sunday night stew so I must close.
Best wishes
Brian

The author Brian mentions can be seen here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rafael_Sabatini

There are two articles about Portland butchers that Em may have pointed out. The first on 24th August mentions a returned soldier refused permit for butcher shop, apparently to appease the meat workers union.
http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/17918257

The second on 18th September talks of the meat union workers refusing to work on Saturdays and the government's crackdown on this. I think this is more likely the article Em highlighted.
http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/17921125

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Roy travelled Australia and New Zealand a lot as manager of Sweetacres, a Nestle company.

I'm off to read your links now

Letter numbered 16
Dated 16.10.44.

Dear Gordon,
It is quite a while since I wrote to you so here goes for a few lines. I am sorry to hear you are having so much trouble with the car and hope you are able to keep it on the road for a while yet.
Letter No 24 arrived today but I don't think there is much in it that calls for a reply. Was it cool enough for you to play tennis on Saturday?
I think you had better have the "power" noted by B.Ws as I think it is advisable to sell. Do you think I could get 19/- for them? The paper with the new ceiling prices has just reached me and I see that the blue metal has been raised to 11/- for ordinaries so you might try and pick up a couple of hundred if any come on the market, which is doubtful.
If BWs require a declaration of identity you should be able to get one from a J.P. but don't do anything about selling until I give the word.
I expect the McNs have gone by now and I am anxious to know what you got for them.
Well, I think that is all the business for tonight so I'll say cheerio and all the best
Brian



Letter numbered 17
Dated 19.10.44.

Dear Em,
I did not write last night as I went to the pictures and saw "Gentleman After Dark" which was quite good, plus a short boosting the Loan with a few words by Robert Hope.
The other packet of chocolate arrived yesterday also a "Lilliput" and Bulletin dated the 4th but no letters have arrived since I last wrote.
I sent an Airgraph off to Ted the other day but have not had any other writing.
Have you heard from Adelaide lately? I expect Harold is back at work again by now.
We have had several hot days this week but today is cooler although there is a lot of dust in the air. I believe Sydney was blacked out with dust for half an hour on Monday. I also noticed that the printers' strike is expected to end on Saturday so you should have the regular papers again next week.
The gambling is still going strong and I have £5 out on loans but I intend being hard in future.
I think that is all for now so I'll say cheerio and all the best.
Brian


Letter numbered 18
Dated 20.10.44.

Dear Em,
Three of your letters arrived today, Nos 25,26 and 27 and as you received three of mine on the one day it seems that the mail has been held up both ways.
I note that the cake is on the way and some more sweets however there is no need to send any more parcels for a while.
You might let me know who censored the letter with three lines missing. I can't remember what it was so it does not really matter much, they have been very conscientious up here lately.
(He is at Ravenshoe camp at this time)
The copy of the composite paper has just come in, it had also been for a trip in the water which would account for the delay.
Too bad you did not back Katanga for a place last Saturday, I did not have an interest but I have a ticket in a 2/- sweep in the Caulfield (Caulfield Cup is run in Victoria the week before the Melbourne Cup) though I don't know what horse I have drawn.
Last night I went down to the cafeteria but I had a very indifferent meal and don't intend going there again.
Thanks for the dope on Kel, I think that is where he would be although I have not heard from him. He probably is waiting until he gets a permanent address.
It has been very cold today and I took part in a scratch game of Aust. Rules football this morning but it was more Rafferty's rules than anything else.
The pictures are on again tomorrow night although I don't know what is showing. There is not much else to do these nights except go to bed.
Cigarettes are in good supply though I try to limit myself to forty a week.
That's about all the news for now so I'll close, will write again on Sunday.
All the best
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 19
Dated 22.10.44.

Dear Em,
It is Sunday once again and I have been taking things easy. Yesterday was wet but it cleaned up somewhat today although a cool wind is still blowing.
I did not go to the pictures last night as I had seen the program at one of the staging camps on the way up so I stayed home and wrote an airgraph to Bruce and then did a bit of reading.
The July Digest has arrived also your letters 28and 29. Sorry to hear about the meat shortage and guess you have a hard time making it go around. I suppose you are lucky having the daily papers back again.
Yes, you can send the B.W. report up and carry on with the other business mentioned in my letter 16. Too bad things are so quiet with McNs, perhaps the appointment of "Annie" has frightened people off.
I had some bad luck with my watch last night, the winder broke clean off with the result I am unable to wind it up. I shall send it down by registered post in the hope that you may be able to get it fixed. There is nothing wrong with the inside and it is still going at the moment.
All the best,
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 20
Dated 24.10.44.

Dear Gordon,
I was very glad to get your letter No 30 of the 20th which arrived yesterday. A Bulletin and a couple of parcels o Heralds also arrived by the same mail. It is interesting to note that the "composite" paper devotes one quarter of each issue to turf news.
I guess Roy is not too pleased with his accommodation in the windy city but perhaps he has found something better by now.
So Les is expected back this week, no doubt you will hear a few things when you see him.
I gather that you will attend to those matters in the near future and all we can do at present is to wait and see how things go.
Many thanks for the envelopes, stamps and nibs, they always come in handy. The food here is not the best at the moment and I am looking forward to the arrival of the cake.
I have not posted the watch yet as I am looking for a box to put it in however I shall get it away in a day or two.
Well that's about all the news for the present, things are very quiet here.
All the best
Brian



Letter numbered 21
Dated 26.10.44.

Dear Em,
I did not write last night as I went to the pictures, "First Love" was the show and although I had seen it before it was a break from the monotony of this place.
Received a letter from Kel yesterday, he was still at the same place on the 21st but he hinted that he may be moving your way shortly. So far he has heard no more about his claim but it is a little early to expect anything yet.
Your letters Nos 31 and 32 arrived this morning together with one from God's cousin. Nice work with Kiaree (?) last Saturday, keep the money down there and get a few lottery tickets with it.
I note the position of B.Ws and McN, still there may be some action there shortly. By the way, did you send that copy of the Gazette up?
The cake arrived yesterday and needless to say it is finished already. It was very nice and only took ten days in the post. I am not sending the tin back as I expect you can get penty down there.
Posted the watch today by registered mail so you can expect it in about ten days or a fortnight. I only hope you are able to get it repaired as I am lost without it. I even got up at six the other morning not knowing the time.
The weather is still fine and I hope it keeps that way. We have a crossword puzzle book in the tent now and when I am not working on that I have been playing a bit of rummy.
I am on piquet at the theatre tomorrow night so I shall be able to see the concert at the same time, it will be the first army concert party I have seen for some time.
It is nearly 10.30 so I must hit the hay.
Best of wishes
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 22
Dated 28.10.44.

Dear Gordon,
I have just returned after seeing "Dodge City" with Errol Flynn, one of the best shows we have had for some time. There was also a very good newsreel of the recapture of Paris. Last night I was at the concert so you can see we are getting quite gay up here.
Your letter 33 of the 24th arrived yesterday and I am glad to hear you are not having so much car trouble. Do you expect to keep this one permanently?.
I have not seen much of the papers the last few days so I was very surprised to learn of the sugar strike. With that and the meat shortage you must be finding things pretty hard.
A parcel of sweets arrived this morning for which I am very grateful, there is nothing we can obtain at present except tobacco, however I might go around to some other units tomorrow night and see what I can find.
I bought a torch the other day but had to pay 11/- for it and lucky to get it. Fortunately batteries are fairly easy to obtain.
Must close now as it is time for supper.
All the best
Brian



Letter numbered 23
Dated 29.10.44.

Dear Em,
I have just pulled out of a game of "rickety kate" to drop you a few lines. Your letter 34 arrived this morning also a "Bulletin" and a parcel of "composite" papers.
Glad to know that Mr Storey is so optimistic and hope that you can get that figure. You might ask him what he considers the others will bring, that is if you are speaking to him again.
Don't worry about a fountain pen as I prefer a steel nib and have plenty to go on with.
I played another game of football the other afternoon and got a bit sunburnt but I am alright again now.
There is another Christmas book coming out this year and I have arranged for a copy to be sent to you, however it may be some months before it arrives.
Today, being Sunday, I have spent most of my time in a horizontal position reading and playing cards. Like you I am finding news scarce so I'll close and rejoin the game.
Best of wishes
Brian

Letter no 24 is missing. Em has crossed out the number on 42 and renumbered it 24 as the date fits but on examination 42 is correct and Brian has dated it 5/11 instead of 5/12.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Letter numbered 25
Dated 5.11.44
Dear Gordon,
I guess it is about time I wrote a few lines although there is not much news. Thanks very much for your letter and I am glad to note that the account is in the same position as September last year.
I went for a swim a few days ago and quite enjoyed it despite the fact that it was a five mile march there and back.
I have been seeing a number of pictures lately including "Yank in the R.A.F.", "Swamp Water" and "The Great Waltz" although I had seen the latter before.
Have you heard from Alan lately, he has not written to me since I returned and I intend writing to him again shortly.
I expect Roy is back now and no doubt he will have a few things to tell you about Longlegs.
I did not take any interest in the races yesterday but I suppose I shall have something on the cup next Saturday.
Have been playing cards a lot the last few days and strange to say I am leading though we are not playing for money.
Well, I think that is all for the present.
All the best,
Brian

This letter has a different postmark to the previous No22. Also his reference to the beach being 5 miles away shows that he has left the camp at Ravenshoe. As always he is not allowed to say where he is or where he is going but his army record for either 5/11 or 6/11 says "Embarked Townsville" and then on the same date "Disembarked A*?. The scan from naa is very poor and I am going to have to get better ones. In the country column it has now changed to New Guinea so it looks like he is back there again.



Letter numbered 26
Dated 7.11.44
Dear Em,
I was very pleased to receive your letters Nos 40 and 41 yesterday, there are still a couple missing but I expect they will turn up.
Glad the watch arrived and I hope it is repaired and on its way back by now, very fast work.
I am also glad you attended to the insurance and presume you will fix the other premium up in January. Incidentally, is the latter policy repayable next year?
I wonder whether the McNs have gone yet also if the BW position has improved.
Had a letter from Kel yesterday, he is now at the records office at Warwick working with the AWAS though I don't know whether the job is permanent. Anyway he stands a better chance of getting out down there.
I have been doing quite a bit of spine bashing in the sun and now have quite a decent tan up. Have been playing plenty of cards the last few days in order to make up for the lack of reading matter.
I must finish up now as I want to write to Kel before the mail closes.
Best wishes
Brian

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.

Hi John,
I am still following Brian's progress with interest, but I have not had any bright ideas about any of the odd names he has dropped recently. Regarding his return to New Guinea, I read his destination as Aitape. Wikipedia has this to say about the place :

"Aitape is a small town of about 8,000 people on the north coast of Papua New Guinea in the Sandaun Province. It is a coastal settlement that is almost equidistant from the provincial capitals of Wewak and Vanimo, and marks the midpoint of the highway between these two capitals.

Aitape was established as a station by German colonists in 1905 as part of German New Guinea. During the Second World War the town was occupied by the Imperial Japanese Army.

During the recapture American forces bypassed the Japanese 18th Army based at Wewak, taking Aitape on 22 April 1944. A base was developed here and repulsed a major Japanese counter-attack. The Americans were content to hold Aitape and not advance far towards Wewak. In fact, Aitape was captured as part of a 3-pronged invasion by the Allies (Aitape, Vanimo, Hollandia). There was little or no strategic gain to be had in doing so as the Japanese force based at Wewak no longer posed a real threat – cut off, short of supplies, and weakened from battle and diseases. In mid-1944, General Douglas MacArthur, the American Commander-in-Chief of Allied forces in the South-West Pacific Area, secured an agreement from the Australian government for Australian forces to take over at Aitape. MacArthur then continued island hoping in preparation for the re-capture of the Philippines.
The Aitape-Wewak campaign was the final Australian military campaign on mainland New Guinea. It ran from November 1944 to the war’s end in August 1945. It was fought by the 6th Division, Australian Imperial Force (AIF) with air and naval support."

The date of the final campaign fits with Brian's transfer.

Cheers,
Phil Williamson

_________________
I'm John. I collect Italian, particularly the Mussolini years.