2019 AGM and Reunion Luncheon

On 24th April 2019 seventy people attended the 2/29th Battalion's Reunion Luncheon and A.G.M at the lovely art deco era Rendezvous Hotel in Flinders Street in the city.

The Master of Ceremonies was again Ryan Vague. The president Simon Lovett welcomed everybody to the function and the Loyal Toast was proposed by Andrew Coffey. The Ode of Remembrance recitation was lead by the Treasurer Gary Simmons.

The new Patron to the Association, Andrew Warland, was introduced and he proposed the Toast to the 2/29th Battalion.

During the Annual General Meeting all current office-bearer's were re-elected. The 2018 2/29th committee members were returned for 2019.

Our first Ben Hackney Trust Education Grant recipient - Hayley McClure - was presented with a certificate of her achievement and a book, to mark the occasion. Hayley's essay was about her great- grandfather Leo Laragy VX43170, who was a 2/29th Battalion veteran.

 The Guest Speaker Mark McClure - Hayley's father - spoke about his grandfather's story and some of the process Hayley had been involved in learning about her great - grandfather's war service.

The buffet lunch prepared by the Rendezvous was very well received and old and young alike enjoyed the food and beverages.

The extensive and very interesting memorabilia display organised by Gary Simmons was as usual very popular. Also the extensive array of 2/29th Battalion books and merchandise for sale overseen by the Lovett family was impressive.

Special thanks go to those hard working committee members involved in the organisation and setting-up for the Luncheon.

As usual the Reunion proved a friendly and welcoming place for catching-up with 2/29th friends and family, old and new.

A special mention goes to the Junior Derham budding artists at the colouring-in table, well done kids. Look out Ken Done and Pro Hart.

We look forward to seeing you all there again next year at the Reunion Luncheon, and welcome very much those who may come for the first time.

Diane Tuck