RAAF 7th Intake 1953
Tottenham/Frognall
Reunion No.16 Ballarat
Ballarat 31st March to 3rd April 2011
For those that arrived on Thursday 31st, there was to be an evening meal at the Bunninyong Golf Club. This was enjoyed by members arriving this day. One of the entertainments during the meal was the drawing of a raffle. Two of our members were surprised to win a prize. First was Babara Bunce who was lucky enough to win a rather large fruit box. Second winner was Jo Mewett, winner of a massage from a local business. However, this was replaced by a nice bottle of wine in lieu.
On the following day, the golfers had the usual game of golf at Bunninyong Golf Club. Some walked the walk, other made use of buggys to traverse the course. Naturally there were winners and losers. As I understand it, with some devious carry on in order to achieve an advantage. The ladies took a different method of entertainment by going shopping in Ballarat. Friday's evening meal was taken at Zagamie's just next door to the Mercure Hotel where we were billeted. Pokie players had mixed results. Ivan Lee having a good result.
As a result of some free time on Saturday prior to the meeting a group of us went to the Ballarat Botanic gardens to visit the Begonia House, see Wendouree Lake with its reed covered water and view the names of servicemen who perished in the wars.
On Saturday the usual 3pm meeting in the convention room was held where Norm McGeary went over the proposal for next year's reunion. There was little discussion as Norm suggested that we could hold next year's reunion again in Ballarat as a good central location without having to travel too long a distance. This was agreed. It was also agreed that dress should be formal, (i.e.) men wearing ties. The ladies of course always like to dress up for the occasion. A fine evening meal was enjoyed by all.
During the course of the evening, once again prizes were awarded for the winning golfers. Colin MacKenzie, Len Glare to mention two, were among the top prize winners.
The final day was a visit to Sovereign Hill and the Gold Museum. An all day event where we gathered together at the New York Bakery for lunch. AFter we had seen almost everything some were leaving to return home after a rather good weekend's gathering. Sunday evening was free choice where those still remaining had a meal again at Zagame's.
Unfortunately some of the members were unable to attend due to knee and hip operations. Hopefully they will be well back to normal next year.
Those in attendance were:
Kevin & Barbara Bunce
Len Glare
Ian & Monica Green
Ron & Heather Hearn
Des Hinds
Ivan & Margaret Lee
Les & Heather McCann
Colin & Jean MacKenzie
Norm & Jean McGeary
Brian & Jo Mewett
John & Margaret Trollop
Apologies were received from
Betty Hinds
Kevn/Claire Weir
Colin Bock
Thomas Jarred
Donald/Dorothy McLennan
Dennis Mattner
Noel Meyer/Eileen
Peter/Margaret Newton
Lindsay/Helen Porter
Dean/Joy Standish
Keith/Heather Thompson
Brian Weber.
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It is with regret that we acknowledge the passing of
Tom Jarred on 28th April 2011
Next year's reunion will be held in Ballarat on 22nd - 25th March 2012
