We mourn the passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, partner to the Queen for almost three quarters of a century. The media has been very full of the history of this partnership, the man himself and abounding in tributes for the Duke.
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Evidence of the remarkable caring for and memory of people he met, and there were countless thousands, came to me when teaching on Norfolk Island. A mate, Barley Christian, loved to go fishing for mullet in Emily Bay requiring a 5am, 5.30am start.
The Duke often visited Norfolk for a short spell. On one of these visits, Barley was happily fishing when someone strolled up and sat down next to him - the Duke. They chatted for about an hour until the Duke strolled off.
In 1974 a royal visit was scheduled to celebrate the bi-centenary of the discovery of the island. On stepping ashore off an island launch, the Duke was about to walk over to greet the crowd when he saw Barley securing the launch to a bollard. He walked over and said, "Well hello Barley, how are the mullet running?"
Remarkable memory, a remarkable man, and a rock for the Queen. He'll be missed.
WITS
We were worried there would be no Anzac parade or services in Boorowa, even a month ago it seemed unlikely. Well done to the sub-Branch committee for re-thinking the situation and re-installing all, to almost what we have loved for years.
Dawn Service 6am, March 10.40am, Service at the War Memorial 11am. General public and descendants are invited to march and medals are optional. Marchers and attendees keep in mind the 1.5m COVID restrictions.
The Ex-Services club is the venue for the traditional luncheon at 12 noon. Bookings are essential at the club or phone 6385 3338. The luncheon is restricted to invited guests, descendants, war widows and veterans and their families. Luncheon cost is $30 with payment to be made before seating. War widows and sub-Branch members no charge.
A reassuring return to a significant day in our year and a sign that maybe normal is not too far away.
WITS
On this day in 1912 an iceberg sank the 'unsinkable' Titanic at 2.27am off the coast of Newfoundland. First reports indicated 1341 lives were lost. The probable figure is 1635 people.
Also on this day in 1955, Ray Kroc opened the first McDonald's Inc fast food restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois (US).
WITS
Boorowa Library is hosting another of what are proving to be popular author talks. On Thursday next, April 22, Julie Ankers, author of 'Feisty Fabulous and 50+' will visit the library for a talk and a workshop. The talk will run 10am -12 noon.
The workshop, 1pm - 3pm, titled 'Your Life by Design' is for over 50s and will help you design the life you really want. This is a highly interactive and practical workshop helping you to identify and evaluate areas of your life not working so well and introduce strategies promoting change.
Bookings are essential through Eventbrite website or the library 02 6384 2441.
WITS
I have really enjoyed the entertainment put on at the Ex-Services club and two exciting artists are appearing soon. The talented Craig Giles is performing tomorrow night, April 16, from 6.30pm. On Friday, April 30 the absolutely brilliant Phil McNight will amaze you from 6.30pm. I believe Phil is the best guitarist of this type I've ever seen.
Brilliant entertainment, it's free, but book at the club.
