Event summary submitted by Marion Young (daughter of the late Ern Veal).

Saturday 24th April was a little grey with some sprinkling rain. Nothing, however, was going to dampen the spirits of the attendees at the 70th Anniversary of the formation of the 2nd 2nd Pioneer Battalion, as we assembled at the Fairfield R.S.L.

Gradually the room filled with Pioneers and Pioneer family members. One Pioneer Nephew just popped in on his way to his Navy Reunion. The rest were there for a day of memories, humour and a very nice meal! We had time and opportunity to swap stories, ask information and receive answers.

Our Hosts for the day were: Col Hamley, Tom Gore, Clarrie Christie, Tom Brabin, Harold Ramsey, Dub Smith, Fred Tubb and Harry Youens.

The President, Col, told us of his memories of "Pucka". He focussed on the Bugle Calls given to alert the soldiers of their duty. This was especially enchanting to those of us related to a Bugler!

We Remembered the soldiers who were not present.

Wasn't it wonderful to have eight Pioneers to cut the Cake? The cake itself was not only beautiful, but delicious! It just topped off a really good meal!

Finally, the family atmosphere of the afternoon could not have been better. I met so many friendly, happy people that I can't wait for next year! What a wonderful Pioneer family we are!

2010 is the 70th anniversary of the first forming of the 2/2 Pioneer Battalion. Photo courtesy of A. Collie (daughter of VX19003 J. Donald). id no. A_COLLIE_88

Another view of the anniversary cake. Photo courtesy of A. Collie (daughter of VX19003 J. Donald). id no. A_COLLIE_76

2/2 Pioneers at the Reunion at Fairfield R.S.L. Left to right : Fred Tubb, Clarrie Christie, Dub Smith, Harold Ramsay, Snowy Youens. Photo courtesy of A. Collie (daughter of VX19003 J. Donald). id no. A_COLLIE_77

2/2 Pioneers at the Reunion at Fairfield R.S.L. Left to right : Fred Tubb, Col Hamley, Tom Brabin, Clarrie Christie. Photo courtesy of A. Collie (daughter of VX19003 J. Donald). id no. A_COLLIE_78

2/2 Pioneers at the Reunion at Fairfield R.S.L. Left to right : Tom Brabin, Clarrie Christie, Dub Smith, Harold Ramsay, Tom Gore, Snowy Youens. Photo courtesy of A. Collie (daughter of VX19003 J. Donald). id no. A_COLLIE_79

2/2 Pioneers at the Reunion at Fairfield R.S.L. Left to right : Fred Tubb, Col Hamley, Tom Brabin, Clarrie Christie. Photo courtesy of A. Collie (daughter of VX19003 J. Donald). id no. A_COLLIE_80

Col Hamley and Val Hamley. Photo courtesy of A. Collie (daughter of VX19003 J. Donald). id no. A_COLLIE_81

Col Hamley and Mary Cameron. Photo courtesy of A. Collie (daughter of VX19003 J. Donald). id no. A_COLLIE_82