Baldivis to Bruce Rock. "Back to the Bush Veteran's Reunion" 31/10 to 2/11

Friday, 31st October.

Moved to Bruce Rock through the outskirts of the Perth region. Through Armadale, Westdale, Beverley, Quairading and then Bruce Rock. The country side was diverse, some forest areas with obvious controlled logging, more grain & more grain, some cattle & plenty of sheep.

The "Back to the Bush" event started last Tuesday and will finish on Sunday.

Caught up with some of the others who were at Baldivis plus I've noted many QLD registration plates so no doubt I'll have a look so see if there are familar faces. Some of those who went south from Baldivis have encountered rain/showers/storms over the past couple of days & whilst there some showers on my way here today it was not too bad. A few of us went to the pub for dinner & while it was a bit rough all was ok.

Saturday

The markets were on down town & many pieces of memorabilia were also on display.

In the afternoon there was a parade & we (Trackers) marched behind our banner (all 7 of us) & one of the WA fellows (ex 1 RAR, of course) had a dog (black Kelpie) with a "Remembrance Coat" & they marched in front of the banner. We did great!

After there was a Church Service with a Blessing of the Banners along with the relighting of the Candle in the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Peace Window. We estimated that there were probably between 350 & 400 in the parade. Also included were a few historic Army vehicles & a group from the 10th Light Horse Memorial Group. Very impressive!

Late in the afternoon there was a demo by a tank & then at night there was a bbq & a concert on the oval. There are in excess of 300 caravans, motor homes, tents, camper trailers on the oval & in the caravan park. All up the population of the town has more than doubled on the weekend.

Sunday

The day was free but at night there was a "camp fire bbq" which was most entertaining. There were a variety of acts from those present and it ranged from singing to poetry to jokes & recitals of stories that we, as veterans, were very attuned to. A number had made the trek home but even still there were in excess of 250 people here to enjoy this great night. A very happy night & a great way to finish our few days here. Those of us who made the effort to get here were extremely glad we did so & would recommend this event to any veteran.