4 Field Regiment (SVN) 'Old Boys' Newsletter - March 2021 Edition

OFFICIAL- from Brigadier RA Vagg, (Head of Regiment) Dear Ladies and Gentlemen, I write to inform you that after some very careful consideration and discussions with the RCC, senior gunners and senior leadership I have decided that we are to postpone the remaining core 150th Anniversary Activities until 2022. These activities include: • RAA 150th Parade and Drumhead Service on 06 Nov 21 at Victoria Barracks, Sydney, including the presentation of the new Queens Banner • RAA 150th Anniversary Cocktail Party on 06 Nov 21 at Victoria Barracks, Sydney • Laying-Up of Old Queen’s Banner (1971 – 2021) • Ceremonial gifting of the ACG to Army from the RAAHC – 3 Dec The random nature of COVID has resulted in any large-scale event being constantly under threat, and therefore the activities planned for 06 Nov 21 are unlikely to be workable. The latest updates indicate that the D strain control requirement will continue until population vaccination rates hit 70 – 80% and there will likely be high level of Defence support to States and Territories for the remainder of 2021. I understand that many of those in the Gunner community will receive this news with dismay. However, given the friction and uncertainty of COVID, threat to the reputation of Army and the likely higher level of Defence support to States and Territories, suspension of the remaining activities is prudent. The DHOR will shortly commence the formal suspension of all high-profile RAA 150th activities. All other Unit, State, regional and Association based activities are free to continue as planned in accordance with Local, State and Federal restrictions. The remaining RAA 150th commemorative activities will be executed once Australia achieves a population vaccination rate of 70 – 80% and COVID restrictions and impacts are manageable; this is aligned to Defence and community expectations. Ubique, Richard While the news below is good news for younger Veterans, it should not impact on any of our Old Boys as every Veteran with operational service, eg Vietnam, should be in possession of a DVA Gold Card once you reach the ripe old age of 70. If anyone has not got their Gold Card, I recommend you get in touch with DVA or your nearest advocate as soon as possible. ADDITIONAL MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR WHITE CARD HOLDERS Ten thousand veterans with complex mental health needs will have access to a network of qualified GPs nationwide, following the expansion of support provided by the Australian Government. Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Andrew Gee today announced the Coordinated Veterans’ Care (CVC) Program has been expanded to provide additional support for DVA White Card holders with an accepted mental health condition.