Vale – MARK DARRYL FISHER – 1 RAR

I’ve just heard MARK DARRYL FISHER has passed. Spoke to his family and will update on funeral service and location. Marks sister has said that the service is on Saturday 1100h at the cathedral in Perth WA and will be streamed 1300h QLD time. If there are any messages or words that would like to be shared, please contact Marianne Fisher at [email protected]. The service will be streamed on https://youtube.com/@cathedralstgeorge?feature=shared.

Will keep you updated.

Scott Duggan

 

Vale 436440 Graham David Spinkston – 4 RAR

It is with a heavy heart that I have to inform you of the passing of Graham Spinkston, my Boss in 12PL Delta company 4 RAR/NZ, both in Australia and Vietnam

He lost his courageous fight last night and is now at peaceful rest. His memory will live on with his loving family, his wide circle of mates and of those of us who are still here and the memories of a great soldier who we were all so very proud to serve as one of his Diggers.

I will pass on details of his funeral service when available

Bob Meehan

4RAR

Funeral-LIVE STREAM link – Roger Wickham

Here is the link for live streaming Roger’s funeral – please pass on to your folk, that if the link below does to start, then copy the link and paste into their browser.

No PIN number is required to activate the live-stream.

https://www.qualitymemorial.services/roger-wickham

The funeral is at 1100 hrs 06 Mar 25 – the live streaming will commence at around 1045/1050 hrs (Australian Eastern Standard Time).

Condolence messages can be left on the first webpage – scroll down to the messages section.

Regards

Wendy M McLean J.P.(Qual) LM

Secretary/Membership Officer

4RAR Association Qld. Inc.’

 

Vale – 54313 Clifford John Clarke – 1RAR

13 Aug 1941 – 1 Mar 2025

I have been advised of the death of John Clarke in WA. Other than advise that he hasn’t been well lately, no other information has been advised,

John served in 8PL C Company, 1RAR during the first tour of Vietnan, He was wounded on 13 October 1965 during an operation Ben Cat and returned to Australia.

I will pass on further details when they come to hand.

Ray – Frontline

[email protected]

 

Vale – 2794601 CPL IAN MICHAEL (GUNNER) BENTLEY

It is with sadness that I wish to advise that one of our members

Born 25 April 1949 sadly passed away on the 1st of March 2025 at the John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle

Gunner served with Artillery and then 7 RAR and 5/7 RAR before moving on to other units.

He also toured Butterworth with 5/7.

His funeral will be held at the Pettigrew Family Funerals, 12 Harris St, Wallsend NSW , at 12.30 on the 12th March 2025 followed by a get together at Wallsend RSL.

Dress and bearing is Suit or smart casual with medals and beret if in possession. There will be a live stream, TBA.

Rifle Company Butterworth

Death Notice – LTCOL 235113 Clifford Francis Dodds OAM – RAA

We have received advice of the death recently of Clifford Francis Dodds OAM. He was 89.

Cliff served in Vietnam with Headquarters, Australian Force Vietnam (Army Component) from September 1968 until August 1969.

In later life, Cliff was Co-Patron of the NSW Referees Association and a keen supporter of Rugby.

On Australia Day, 2007, then Lieutenant Colonel Dodds, was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community through the Royal Australian Artillery National Museum, and through professional, service and sporting organisations.

A funeral for Cliff will be held at St Aidan’s Anglican Church, Christina Street, Longueville, on Monday 10 March 2025 at 2.30pm.

RIP Clifford Francis Dodds, OAM

Peter Bruce, OAM
Obituary Resource Officer
RAAHC
[email protected]

VALE: RSM, 215312 WO1 BRYAN ALLAN “JAZZA” SMITH – 1RAR

02 Jan 1942 – 02 Mar 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our esteemed former Regimental Sergeant Major of 1 RAR and distinguished veteran of both tours of South Vietnam, Bryan “Jazza” Smith.

Jazza served as RSM from February 1982 to December 1984 and was widely regarded as one of our finest leaders—respected by all who had the honour of serving alongside him. His unwavering dedication, professionalism, and leadership left an enduring legacy within the Regiment.

At the time of his passing, Jazza was in palliative care, surrounded by those who loved and respected him.

Our heartfelt condolences go to Jazza’s wife, his extended family, and his brothers in arms. May he rest in eternal peace.

Funeral Details

Date: Monday, 10th March
Time: 10:30 AM
 Venue: Victory Church, 32 Carseldine Road, Bridgeman Downs

A video link will be made available for those unable to attend in person.

LEST WE FORGET

Vale: F186520 PTE Simone Blakeman (nee Steen).

We have just received the following sad news; Simone was a Medic with BSG on Op Solace. She is survived by her husband Jason Blakeman (C Coy 1RAR Op Solace) and two sons.

Our sympathy and thoughts are with her family at this time.

The Funeral is Wednesday 5th March at 2PM White Lady Funerals, Nambour QLD.

If you wish to send flowers please send to the chapel. More details are in the attachment about sharing memories and live Stream.

Rest In Peace

LEST WE FORGET

1 RAR Association