It is my sad duty to advise the passing of Norm Pickering on 14 October 2025.
Older members will fondly remember Norm, although he was unable to attend many functions in later years as distance and difficulty in travelling made it impossible.
Norm joined the Royal Navy in February 1954 as an Aircraft Handler and served until November 1964. During this ten years in the RN he served on HMAS illustrious, Ark Royal, Eagle and Albion. He then moved to Australia and joined Royal Australian Navy on January 1965 and served until July 1986 attaining the rating of Warrant Officer.
In the RAN he served on HMAS Cerberus, Albatross, Harman, Kuttabul and Melbourne, and at various times he was attached to 816 and 817 squadrons.
His decorations included LS & GSM, National Medal, Service Medal & Clasp, Vietnam Support Medal, RN GSM ( Near East Clasp)
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Norm will be held on Monday 10th November at Tobin Brothers, 609 The Esplanade, Mt.Martha commencing at 1400. The service will be live streamed and should you wish to watch, please contact Tobin Brothers a few days before the service on 5975 2233 to get the details.
Our thoughts are with Robin and the family at this sad time.
Mal Smith, Secretary VIC Division
