HAURAKI NEWS

February 2.003 I S S M e wo 30 5

7th March 2003

7th March 2003

7th March 2003

We are having a 'wing ding' On this date

Look inside for details

" We don't have inspections here— it's left to your sense of pride."

Official Newsletter of the 6th Battalion (Hauraki) Regimental Association Incorporated Compi led by T.J.Archer Edited by Mrs.Lynn Archer

Secretary: Mrs M Kareko, 91 Windsor Road, Tauranga

The "Vickers Machine Gun." (A Real Man's Weapon.)

An example of sustained fire, the Somme 24 t h August 1916

The following extract is taken from the Official History of the Great War, and will serve to show what the water-cooled Vickers gun is capable of when the need arises.

The 100th Machine Gun Company were in a position known as Savoy Trench. The Company had ten Vickers guns and were ordered to support an attack with rapid fire. It was necessary to neutralise an area and prevent any enemy crossings it for twelve hours. The area was visible at 2000 yards range. Two Infantry companies were lent to stock the position with ammunition and water, whilst two men, working continuously on a hand-driven belt-filling machine, kept the belts filled throughout the period. Factory filled belts were not supplied until the 1930's

1,000,000 rounds all but one belt were fired during the 12 hours. The ammunition expenditure was roughly as follows.

• Average rounds per gun 100,000 • Average rounds per gun per hour 8,300 • The best gun fired a total of 120,000 rounds

(40 belts or 10,000 rounds)

There were no major breakdowns, and all the guns were in action at the end of the barrage, but the water only just lasted. It should be noted that the figure of 8,300 rounds per gun per hour included the time required for curing stoppages, loading belts, and relaying where necessary. In addition the water jackets had to be topped up, and the barrels would be changed about once an hour. The life of a barrel, under such conditions, about 10,000 rounds, so over 100 barrels must have been used by the Company.

Later it was ascertained that the target area had been under an annihilating fire for the whole 12 hours. The attack was successful.

It may be said, with some justification, that 20 guns should be provided for a task of this nature, and so reduce the strain on weapons and personnel, but the extra ten guns were not available. Under such circumstances, which are often the rule in battle, it is reassuring to know the dependability of your weapons, but do not forget that they will be of little use without trained and practiced crews.

Article provided by G.Eagleson.

^ s}: ^ *

Col (rtd.)A.P. Coster ED ? " President;

Des Anderson tel: 07:5711951 h Vice President - v

Gordon Eagleson tel 07-8846675 > 07-8846075

Secretary - ; \\'.Qy^r: v:V':*"

MarionKareko tel: 07:5760277h 07 5788139w

Treasurer Ted Dean tel; 07-5444536 h

Fax:07-5444737 Welfare Officer

Pemiy Burgess, teVto 07-5776480

Committee; Bob Mankelow :'• Shirley Keno Richard Burgess TonyFraser Penny Burgess Paddy McFarland Erik Kristensen ' / w 1 ^ AREA REPS; " - - - ' ^ Auckland; Bob Mack

telephone: \ ph 09- 4453242 ;

Thames; .'. nil ' :^ , . Tauranga: See Committee Matamata Doug McGIashen ph 07- 8886314 <

Whakatane Vacant

Hamilton; •'<• . .̂ Stu Foster ph: 07-8436121 Te Aroha: Gordon Eagleson ph 07-8846675 ; TeAwamutu; Peter Croucher ph 07-8714360

Presidents report.

The traditional Christmas function was held at the Tauranga R.S.A. on Sunday 1 December. The turnout was good, but all were from the Tauranga Area only.

Your committee has in the past, arranged functions away from Tauranga on occasions, in an attempt to reduce travel for those from other areas. However each time, the majority of attendees came from the Tauranga Area only.

Although WE enjoyed the occasions, it was sad that YOU were not there. However I am sure I will see you at the next get-together. I f you want it to be away from Tauranga, just drop ME a line or two about your ideas for the next event.

It was good to see the recent parade held in Wellington representing those who have served in East Timor. A number of Hauraki served on that mission, and did their job well. The response from the public was good, and it is great to see the people of New Zealand stand up and support their military forces.

It is a good feeling to be part of a proactive committee, such as those in YOUR Association. I am sure, they will continue to plan and organize more functions etc on your behalf, however, we need your participation also. I would like to see YOU at the next 'do'!

KiaKaha D.Anderson President

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Penny's Welfare Corner Last Post

Pleased to say there is nothing to report Sick List

In January this year Des Anderson had a Prostate procedure at Norfolk Hospital by the world's leading specialist in Prostate Laser Treatment. Des recommends all men get their prostates checked because the process is quick, simple, painless and of course lifesaving. In his own words he now has a new lease in life.

(It means his eyes don't water now.) Ed

The Good Fairy A man and his wife (now in their 60's) were celebrating their 40 t h

wedding anniversary. On their special day a good fairy came to them and said that because they had been such a devoted couple she would grant each of them a very special wish. The wife wished for a trip around the world with her husband. Whoosh! Immediately she had airline/cruise tickets in her hands. The man wished for a female companion 30 years younger... Whoosh... immediately he turned ninety!!!

******

Subscriptions

These are now well due. I know the last year went by very quickly but most things do. So, if anyone out there is feeling guilty about their membership, contact the Treasurer Ted Dean (his contact number is in the front of this publication) and he will put you on the right track. To jog the memory the subs are still only; New Members $ 20.00 Sub Renewal $ 15.00 Perpetual Membership $150.00 Sub renewal works out at 28c per week.

Now that the annual grizzle is over please!! your sub is necessary, so prompt payment would be very much appreciated!!!

The Christmas Luncheon

On Sunday December 1 s t 2002 30 members and guests (from the RNZAF Assoc and the Rhodesian Society.) attended the Tauranga RSA to celebrate the annual Hauraki Association Xmas luncheon. From about 11.15 onwards the members mingled, had drinks, and greeted old friends as they arrived. At 'High Noon', President Des announced the meal was ready, and directed us to the dining room. It was a very good meal and enjoyed by all.

The signing of the attendance register also acted as a free raffle, (organised by Bob Mankelow), with 6 opportunities on a 'first in gets the best prize' basis. Penny Burgess won the top prize, being a Hauraki Tie.

New Hauraki Staff

Pte. Sandy Whiting L/Cpl GeoffPuata Cpl Russell Robb Cpl Ivan Chappie Sgt Aaron Morrison S/Sgt Lani Houkomau S/Sgt John Kingi S/Sgt Brent TeWhero

Store person Lodger Clerk TptNCO Mechanic Cadre RQMS T.W.O.

Cadre Bradford

Garrison Club Bar Happenings

Christmas Eve was a pleasant evening, with a late rush on Christmas Gifts, Hauraki Bone carvings, Port, etc.

The January 03 BBQ was an enjoyable afternoon with plenty of good tucker (not Rat Packs) BUT only a small number of members attending.

Kiwi News March 1943

It is officially announced that the Japanese convoy making towards New Guinea was joined by a further 8 ships, making a total of 22. In their first contact, our bombers destroyed 4. Subsequently they sank the entire convoy - 12 transports and 10 warships. Our fighter cover accounted for 53 Japanese planes. Our losses; 1 bomber and 3 fighters. It is believed that 15,000 Japanese were destroyed.

Savings stamps for Hitler

Thousands of Londoners and American Soldiers from a crowd of about a million pushing through Trafalgar Square bought savings

stamps and plastered them on two 5001b bombs for delivery to Hitler. The crowd was the biggest since the Coronation.

This article made available from H.Harrison and the late Ian Still.

Kids in Church

A little boy was heard praying: "Lord if you can't make me a better boy, don't worry about it. I'm having a real good time like I am."

From the Archives 1968 Why step off with the left foot. Robt. Graves "The Greek Myths" reports that: Aetolian warriors campaigned with only the left foot (the shield side) shod. The unshod foot gave greater purchase in the mud. The tradition survives in Europe where modern soldiers still step off with the left foot.

Platoon Notes Signals Platoon - Once again probably the hardest working platoon, they kept communications going throughout the Camp and Exercises. It appears they have a trigger-happy sergeant and an officer who would like to be arrested.

Transport Platoon - Apparently SSgt. Briscoe was sadly missed. Although not fully employed all the time the transport was always there when needed. It is believed that tents have a low ignition point.

Support Platoon - A small platoon but of good standard. They had two enjoyable days at Imjim firing the support weapons, after which they returned to protect the Bn base (with two extra pieces for the anti Tank Gun). Scribe unknown

March Gathering

On 7 t h March 2003 the Garrison Club is having an evening to welcome the new Regular Force guys to the Garrison Club. The Club will be open at the normal time of 1600, and the PMC's half price shout will take place from 1800 until 1900. A small plate of nibbles is required from those attending. Everyone of course is welcome.

School Kids make lack of noise complaint.

Kaikoura Suburban School kids missed the sound of Huey's overhead so much; they tempted their favourite Air Force unit back for a slice of 'Squadron Cake.'

When the No. 3 Squadron detachment to Christchurch ceased in September 1999 history was made for the Squadron. Not only because it closed a chapter for the Squadron but also because they received their first flying complaint due to lack of noise and low flying aircraft.

When based in Christchurch the Iroquois could often be seen flying in the South Island closely watched when they were in the area by Kaikoura Suburban School. It was this very school that put in the complaint when the choppers disappeared from the skies, says No. 3 Squadron Adjutant Sqn Ldr Tania Hoeymans

'Since then the Squadron has made every effort to flyover the school whenever in the South Island. The school has adopted us and is our biggest fen club often sending us letters and giving us an open invitation to fly in at any time,' she says.

Such is their popularity with the students and teachers, the Squadron has become the main feature on the school's 2003 calendar, a number of which have been gifted to the Squadron.

On November 20, an Iroquois landed at the school on their return flight from Canterbury where they had been on a search and rescue exercise with the N.Z.Police and carrying out rappelling

training with the army at Burnham Camp.

Kaikoura Suburban School principal Neil Baker says they had wonderful time with the crew of FltLt Rob Stockley, FgOff Richard Beetham and helicopter crewman Matt Beaven.

They played touch rugby, signed autographs and chomped through our famous "Squadron Cake". The children insisted we rename our cake "Squadron Cake' in honour of No. 3 Squadron. (Abridged)

Taken from the Air Force News

Mike O'Shea

I bumped into Mike in the city on the last day of January. A lot of folk have asked me if I knew what happened to the man, as he seemed to have disappeared for a while. (Mike was a "Hauraki" back in the 70's and worked in the Transport Section leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.)

Mike is now an amputee. He has diabetes, and poor circulation, so, when he broke his foot while working for the railways, his foot never healed properly. This made a below knee amputation of his left leg necessary.

His new leg is very realistic, right down to the gap between his toe to enable him to wear jandals. He had a fair bit of input into the design and it looks very real. Yes, and Mike still has his great sense of humour and still enjoys a beer or 2 or 3. Good on ya mate!!

T.J.Archer

Alan (Redeye) Redding explaining to our honorary Col, Col. John Allen that he would salute, but he would spill his drink.

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Cadets

In 1999 at the request of Basil Morrison JP, Mayor of the Hauraki District, the Hauraki Association was asked to assist in estabUshing an Army Cadet Unit in the district. Together with representatives from the Hauraki Regiment, we helped establish the Unit. As Paeroa is the birthplace of the Regiment, the only request we had was the Unit is named the "Hauraki Cadet Unit". The committee that was formed to set up the Unit accepted this proposal. The Association donated 10% of that year's profit from the Garrison Club as "seed money."

As I live in Tauranga and was involved in another cadet unit I asked Vice President Gordon Eagleson, who lives in that area, to represent the Association.

Gordon did more than that, he became the Unit Commander, along with training team, transport coordinator, fundraiser, counselor, committee member and general dogs body.

Gordon put every thing he could into the Unit. He went with the cadets to Waiouru for their 10-day exercise with the Regiment. Not once, but four times! One year he nearly froze, the next year nearly died of heat exhaustion. You know what it is like in Waiouru! (Such a great place, even the Army has moved out). Weekends, Gordon took the cadets away for training in the hills. Always leading from the front.

Gordon conducted night parades at the local school for the cadets, which effectively took up Monday night. On Friday night he was down at the Garrison Club in Tauranga, as the bar manager. His secondary role was to gain more material assistance for his Unit, in the old "Hauraki way", from the Q Store.

Gordon put all he could into the Unit, but unfortunately the locals did not have the same commitment. The Unit is now in recession. Gordon Eagleson upheld the traditions of the 'Hauraki'. We thank you Gordon!

Des Anderson President

Western Bay of Plenty Cadet Unit.

The Tauranga based unit won the "Daughters of the Empire", cup for the most efficient unit in the Northern Region in 2002. The cup goes back to 1912, were it was won by the New Zealand Contingent, at Toronto, Canada. Some of our members remember winning the cup in 1933, with the Rotorua High School Cadets & then again in 1936.

Note: Your Association financially supports the entire 10-cadet unit within the Hauraki Region. This is achieved by a grant of 20% of the profit from Garrison Club, with the funding under the direct control of the committee.

6 HAURAKI ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED APPLICATION FORM FOR

NEW MEMBERSHIP ONLY

Regimental No Date of Birth

Full Name

Partners Name (If App)

Full Postal address

Telephone Number(Home) Business

Brief resume of Service with 6 Hauraki (Include dates and appointments)

Highest Rank Held Service in other Units

OFFICE USE ONLY

Date Joined Receipt no Membership no

This information is collected for the purpose of the 6 Battalion (Hauraki) Regimental Association Inc. and is strictly Confidential. It will not be supplied to any other person or organisation in compliance with the Privacy Act.

Post Subscription of $20.00 to Secretary M. Kareko 91 Windsor Road Tauranga

M k l V 01/99

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