Fleet Air Arm
Association of Australia
News and Information
CPO Ken King - passing of a former shipmate
Ken King served in the RAN Fleet Air Arm from 1966 to 1985-86 when he transferred to General Service as a result of the Fleet Air Arm cut-backs of the time. Shortly afterwards, he paid-off as a CPO.
He returned to HMAS Albatross as a Reservist on a number of occasions to assist in various projects.
Ken passed away in Nowra at the David Berry Hospital's Karinya Palliative Care Unit on Sunday, 27 June 2010. His funeral service was held at Worrigee on Friday, July 2.
FESR Navy Association Reps at MCG
The FESR Navy Association National President Les Bailey and Les Napper will represent the Association in an open car in the parade prior to the traditional Anzac Day clash at the MCG between Essendon and Collingwood.
RSL Victoria nominated the Association to participate in the cavalcade around the ground. The AFL has approved the nomination and following the parade the FESR duo will then take their place in the members' stand to witness the clash and visit the teams in their clubrooms after the game. It has taken a number of years for the FESR Navy Association to gain this recognition and it becomes a prelude to stronger ties with the AFL in the future.
Participation at the MCG is also a precursor to the FESR Navy Association's staging of the 55th anniversary international reunion at Twin Towns Coolangatta-Tweed Heads at the end of May. Stars of this reunion will be the Navy Guard and Band, Navy Precision Drill Team and the parade of the Navy White Ensign through the streets of Coolangatta and Tweed Heads.
Maryang San Commemorative Plaque
The program for unveiling the Maryang San commemorative plaque at the Korean observation post overlooking the demilitarised zone and Hill 317 is close to finalisation with the unveiling by the Chief of Army scheduled for Friday, 28 August 2009. The plan is for a simple unveiling ceremony. The Battle of Maryang San (codenamed Operation Commando) (5–8 October 1951) is known as one of Australia's greater accomplishments in the Korean War.
18 July 2009 - Dedication of Korean War Memorial
Veterans of the Korean War have been invited to attend the dedication of the new memorial in Moore Park, Sydney, on Sunday, 26 July 2009. The memorial is at the north end of Moore Park and has been funded jointly by veterans groups (including the Fleet Air Arm Association), the NSW Government, Korean Government and the Korean community of Sydney. Any veteran wishing to attend can obtain an official invitation by contacting Darren Mitchell from the NSW Premiers Department on (02) 9228 3372.
13 June 2009 - 850 Squadron Crest
The White Ensign Club is after a 850 Squadron crest for placement in the display within the Club. If any member (or other) has a 'spare' crest, it would be very much appreciated if a donation of it could be made to the Club. Contact person is Denis Mulvihill at or .
18 March 2009 - 'Navy News' Online
'Navy News' recent editions have been available from the Internet for some time, but there is now an archive (in PDF format) covering the years 1958 to 1973, with more to
come. For more information, see www.navy.gov.au/Publication:Navy_News.
12 March 2009 - Carrier Series Available for Download
PBS (the Public Broadcasting Service in the USA) has an aviation-related series available online for download. The series includes Carrier, a 10-part series available at
www.pbs.org/weta/carrier/full_episodes.htm. ("Carrier, a 10-part series filmed aboard the USS Nimitz, is a
character-driven immersion in the high-stakes world of a nuclear aircraft carrier. The episodes follow a core group of characters as they navigate their jobs, families, faith, patriotism, love, the rites of passage and the war on terror.")
25 February 2009 - Passing of Gordon (Pancho) Walters
It is with regret that we have to inform all members that well-known member, Gordon (Pancho) Walters passed away yesterday, February 24. Our best wishes and condolences go out to his wife Sandra and family.
27 January 2009 - Australia Day Honours
Petty Officer Aircrewman Benjamin James Sime was awarded a Medal of Gallantry in the 2009 Australia Day awards for his actions during an incident in the North Arabian Gulf. His citation read:
"For gallantry in action in hazardous circumstances during a waterborne terrorist attack
in the North Persian Gulf, Iraq, during Operation Catalyst.
"Petty Officer Sime gave a selfless and spontaneous display of gallantry on 24 April 2004
under the most hazardous operational circumstances following a coordinated terrorist attack
against Iraqi oil terminals, during which sailors from USS Firebolt were critically injured. Petty Officer Sime showed outstanding courage and remained dedicated to supporting a sailor in his care without regard to his own safety. His efforts and his achievements were of the highest order and were in the finest traditions of the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Defence Force."
Commodore Tim Barrett, CSC RAN, was awarded an AM for "exceptional service to the RAN as Director Naval Officers' Postings and as the Australian Navy Aviation Force Element Group Commander."
The Association offers its congratulations to both men, for upholding the finest traditions of the Fleet Air Arm.
15 March 2007 - Passing of Joan Ferguson
It is with regret that we note the passing of Joan Ferguson on Monday, March 12. Joan was the wife of Ian, a former armourer in the RAN Fleet Air Arm. Ian was also the first national secretary of the Fleet Air Arm Association of Australia. Our sympathy is extended to Ian and his family. Joan's funeral service was held in Shoalhaven Memorial Gardens Chapel, Worrigee, on March 17.
10 October 2006 - Funeral of John "Monty" Moncrieff
Ex-Leading Airman Aircraft Handler John "Monty" Moncrieff crossed the bar at 0700, Saturday 07 October 06, in Mt. Olivet Hospital, Brisbane.
Former shipmates and friends of "Monty" are advised his funeral service will be held 1400 on Thursday, 12 October 2006, in the Chapel of Lohrich Funeral Directors, Cnr Manilla & York St. Beenleigh. Medals to be worn. - Joe Linaker.
5 October 2006 - Passing of John Selby
Members will be saddened to learn of the death of John Selby on Tuesday, 3rd October.
His funeral will be at Stan Crapp Funeral Home, Cnr Manning and Farmer Streets, Kiama, at 12 noon on Monday, 9th October.
John joined the RAN College in 1953 and became the Chief Cadet Captain. On graduating he was awarded the Queens Medal.
He specialised in aeronautical engineering and quickly displayed high skills in his chosen field.
He rose to the rank of captain and his last postings in the RAN was as the Director of Naval Aircraft Engineering.
John Selby was respected and admired by all who were fortunate enough to serve with him.
He is survived by his wife Jill and two daughters and their families.
The Association extends to Jill and the family our deepest sympathy.
31 July 2006 - Change of FESR Navy Association Leadership
National President Noel "Wacker" Payne OAM JP has resigned as the long-standing President of the FESR Navy Association.
His resignation will allow him to pursue contractual obligations he has with a Queensland law firm.
His deputy, National Vice-President Joe Linaker will take the National Presidency for the interim period to the next AGM scheduled for April 2007 in Fremantle.
Linaker said "Noel's widely-acclaimed advocacy and services to the veterans' community will continue through his chairmanship of the Armed Services Assistance Centre.
"This will be good news for FAAAA members, in particular those of "carrier navy vintage" who can still source his level 4 advocacy skills free of charge. Pension officers and advocates serving the FAAAA membership can seek his guidance and advice as well (tel 0418-759-202)".
Linaker said he had rather large boots to fill, but is confident his management style, while not as flamboyant as his predecessor, can further the progress of the Association. Under Noel's watch, the Association became a nationally-incorporated body with each State enjoying autonomy in the conduct of their affairs.
31 July 2006 - Counselling for Vietnam Vets' Children Continues
The Australian Government will continue providing free counselling services to all sons and daughters of Australia’s Vietnam veterans regardless of their age, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Bruce Billson, has announced.
"Following a review by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs of the effectiveness of counselling to those in the older age bracket, the Australian Government has decided it is vital this group of Vietnam veterans’ children continues to have access to Government-funded counselling," he said.
Approximately 17 per cent of the sons and daughters who have accessed counselling through VVCS are aged 36 years or over. Those using this service have been found to be vulnerable to life problems that arise from their parents’ service.
Full report: http://minister.dva.gov.au/media_releases/2006/07_July/va061.htm.
28 Sept 2005 - Death of Chaplain Walter Wheeldon
Members of the FAAAA will be saddened to hear of the recent death of Chaplain Walter Wheeldon.
Wally originally came from England and joined the RN during World War 2. He became a fighter pilot and flew combat missions from HMS Implacable in the Pacific.
After the war he settled in Australia and in the early 1950s became an Anglican priest.
He joined the RAN and served as a chaplain for many years including two postings in Albatross and three in Melbourne.
On one occasion he visited the RAN Helo Flight Vietnam and was in a Huey when it came under enemy fire. Despite his protests, Wally was ordered by the pilot to man the waist gun and return fire. Wally claimed he aimed high.
Wally was always a FAA chaplain and the Association extends to his family sincere condolences.
26 June 2005 - New Australian Korean Vets Body Proposed
An indication of interest is being sought for the formation of a body to be known as the Australian National Council of Korean War Veterans.
If the body comes into existence, it is proposed that the group apply to become a member of the International Federation of Korean War Veterans.
If you would like to be part of this group (and willing to pay the proposed $5 annual fee), please contact our National Secretary at PO Box 7115, Naval PO, Nowra NSW 2540.
3 May 2005 - Car Offer for Korean Vets
The Korean car company Hyundai is offering discounts ranging from $1,300 to $4,800 to Korean War veterans buying new Hyundai cars.
The discount is available to all who served in the Australian Forces in the Korean War between 25 June 1950 and 19 April 1956. The discount is additional to any allowance offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
To take advantage of this scheme, please contact the Association's National Secretary at PO Box 7115, Naval PO, Nowra NSW 2540.
8 March 2005 - Farewell to Admiral Hudson
I attended Admiral Mike Hudson's funeral at Garden Island on Friday, 4 March. As most will know, Mike Hudson was CO Melbourne, Fleet Commander and CNS, and thus had much contact with the FAA.
As to be expected, there was a big crowd and the full ceremonial was conducted with great formality and to the highest standard. Tom Frame, Bishop of the Forces, presided over the church service - he had previously had a tour as Admiral Hudson's personal assistant.
There was an impressive line up of VIPs - including the Minister, General Peter Cosgrove, Kim Beasley, Bob Hawke, Heads of the Services and retired CDFs, Peter Gration and Chris Barry. FAA faces included Fred Lane, John Da Costa and Ken Barnett - all looking in fine fettle!
I signed the Condolence Book on behalf of the FAAAA - David Farthing, National President, Fleet Air Arm Association of Australia.
27 January 2005 - Australia Day Honour
In the Australia Day Honours List, Frank Eyck of Nowra was awarded the OAM for his work with veterans and their families and, in particular, for organizing the memorial at Bomaderry for the 'EMU'S' - the combined US Army 135th Assault Helicopter Company and the RAN Helicopter Flight Vietnam. Congratulations from all in the FAAAA.
16 Nov 2004 - Cmdr Guy Beange DSC
Commander Guy Beange DSC, a foundation member of the Fleet Air Arm who had a distinguished career in the RAN, died on November 15. His funeral was held in Sydney on Friday, November 19, at Holy Name Priory Church, Billyard Avenue, Wahroonga.
11 Nov 2004 - Cmdre Gordon Jervis
News has been received that former air engineer Cmdre Gordon Jervis passed away on November 10th after a long illness. His burial was a private ceremony with a memorial service held in the chapel at HMAS Watson on November 15.
22 Aug 2004 - Judith Orr
Members will be saddened to learn of the passing of Judith Orr, wife of Cdre David Orr.
29 July 2004 - Lieut (P) Ian MacDonald
News has been received that Lieut (P) Ian MacDonald passed away on Tuesday, 27 July 2004. Ian was one of the original No 1 Course of RAN trainee pilots and after leaving the RAN became a Qantas captain.
7 August 2003 - Passing of Tony Penno
The Association regrets to record the passing of NSW member Tony Penno, who died at Nowra Community Hospital on Wednesday, 6th August, 2003. Tony was editor of the Association's quarterly magazine, Slipstream, in the early 1990s, and a project officer for aircraft restoration. A service was held at HMAS Albatross Chapel on Monday, 11th August, starting at 2pm.
27 June 2003 - Memorial Service for Cdre Rob Partington
Family and friends of the late Commodore Robin Partington AM RAN (Rtd) gathered together at the Fleet Air Arm chapel, Nowra on Tuesday, 24th June, for a memorial service to Rob and to witness the unveiling of a memorial plaque.
Rob’s wife Tina, accompanied by her daughter Cassie and son Chris, did the unveiling.
Return to News Index