top of page

Into the Light

GALLERY
Click on any image to enter the Gallery

Wayne Longley Wayne Longley served in the Army from 1968–1996, including deployments to Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Sinai. He rose through the ranks from infantry to officer, later managing logistics and leading training. After military retirement, he held senior civilian roles in HR, training, and operations. A national athletics champion and dedicated mentor, he continues coaching youth, singing for seniors, and running daily. Wayne holds an MBA and lives a quietly purposeful life with lasting impact.	Dave Cox Dave Cox, a former Australian Army Signals Corps soldier, served for nine years after enlisting at 15. A lifelong musician, he founded Guitars for Veterans Australia in 2017, supporting veterans through music therapy. His not-for-profit has reached over 500 veterans, providing guitars, lessons, and community. Through powerful original songs like Freedom’s Not Free, Dave raises awareness of trauma and healing. He embodies resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of music and song.	Liz Quinn Lieutenant Commander Elisabeth (Liz) Quinn began her Royal Australian Navy career in 2001 as a Maritime Warfare Officer, later specialising in Naval Intelligence. With multiple deployments and strategic roles, she’s contributed to key Australian and coalition missions. Beyond defence, Liz has led leadership programs in elite sport, including five AFLW seasons with Richmond. A Level 3 AFL coach, she now serves as Performance Coach at Prokick Australia, empowering individuals & teams across sport.
Sam Cuce Sam Cuce, born in Sicily in 1951, migrated to Australia in 1955 and served with the Royal Australian Engineers during National Service (1972–73). He later co-founded two successful electrical companies with his wife, Sari. A proud father and grandfather, and son of a decorated WWII Italian veteran, Sam is dedicated to veterans’ welfare through the RSL and National Servicemen’s Association. As State Event Coordinator for National Servicemen’s Day, he honours the legacy of Australia’s veterans.	Daniel Armstrong Royal Australian AirForce -Central Flying School in Sale	Glenn MacDonald Glenn, born in 1950 in Bright, Victoria, began his career in data processing before rising to senior IT roles at Telstra, Hitachi, and Medibank. A decorated Army Reservist and former Commando, he now serves as Chief Invigilator at Xavier College and Secretary of ACAVIC. Glenn enjoys family life with wife Susan, two daughters, and grandchildren. His passions include skiing, travel, and lifelong mateship forged through military service and community dedication.
Mark Osborne Mark Osbourne joined the Army on April 1, 1980, at age 17. He served eight years—six in the 16th Air Defence Regiment and two with the Commandos. In 1985, he deployed to Peru to support an aid group during a violent insurgency. A terrorist bombing injured his arm and hearing. Part of a long line of military service, Mark is one of three generations sent overseas—two wounded, one killed—hoping he’ll be the last.	Krystal Brown Krystal Brown is a dedicated Resource Administrator with over 23 years of experience in the Australian Defence Force. She brings expertise in people management, policy interpretation, and operational support, with a strong commitment to confidentiality and continuous improvement. Known for her professionalism, team spirit, and positive attitude, Krystal thrives in dynamic environments. She is passionate about contributing to meaningful outcomes and is now seeking a new challenge.	Reg Yates Captain Reg Yates, 77, is a retired Australian Army Reserve Infantry Officer and qualified Paramedic, known for his expertise in Papua New Guinea military history. Born in New Zealand, he joined the Citizens Military Forces in 1971 and served for 30 years, retiring as an Infantry Captain. Reg is a respected battlefield guide and PNG specialist, combining deep military insight with historical knowledge to educate and inspire others through tours and historical engagement.
Jan Withers Janet Withers joined the Navy at 17 as a Communicator, where she met her husband Rod. After four years of service, she transitioned into family life and later devoted over 40 years to Girl Guides Australia, holding national leadership roles. She also volunteered nearly 20 years with the Royal Australian Navy Communications Branch Association. For her dedication and impact, Janet was awarded the Order of Australia Medal, a testament to her lifelong commitment to service.	Lance McDermott Lance joined the Royal Australian Navy at 15 in 1972, serving 26 years across various ships and roles, including Quartermaster Gunner and later as a Coxswain. Rising to Chief Petty Officer, he advised Commanding Officers on Naval law and discipline. After discharging in 1998, he became a school officer in Dandenong until retiring in 2017. In March 2024, he was elected President of the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL, continuing his commitment to service and community.	John Brookes John Brookes OAM served 42 years with Victoria Police, including key international peacekeeping roles with the AFP in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. As Team Leader with RAMSI, he led remote policing teams, fostering trust and stability in post-conflict communities. Raised in South Gippsland, John’s courage, diplomacy, and mentorship defined his career. Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia, he exemplifies dedication to policing, peacekeeping, and public service.
Shane Turner Shane Turner is a highly skilled bomb disposal expert with extensive experience in high-risk operations. Serving with distinction in the Australian Defence Force, Shane has neutralized explosive threats in both domestic and international missions. Known for his calm under pressure and precision in dangerous environments, he has trained and led teams in advanced EOD techniques. Shane’s dedication to safety, leadership, and operational excellence continues to make a lasting impact in this field.	Greg Todd and John (father) Greg Todd is a mechanical and aeronautical engineer with a distinguished career in Army Aviation and international defence. A graduate of OCS Portsea, he served as a pilot before transitioning to RAEME, contributing to the Black Hawk’s introduction. With engineering degrees from RMIT, Greg played key roles in major projects, including early development of the Bushmaster vehicle. His career spans aviation, engineering, and innovation, leaving a lasting impact on Australia’s defence capabilities.	Jordie Burgess Warrant Officer Class One Jordie Burgess, from Digby, Victoria, enlisted in the Australian Army at 17 in 1986 as an Electrical Fitter. He served in key leadership and instructional roles, with deployments to Rwanda, Bougainville, and East Timor. Promoted to WO1 in 2004, he transitioned to the Army Reserves in 2006 and began a civilian career with the Australian Public Service. Jordie, a devoted husband and father, remains committed to service and leadership.
Rob Cousens Bombardier Rob Cousens served in the National Service Training Battalion at Puckapunyal from 1956 to 1960 before becoming a Bombardier in the Royal Australian Artillery, Unit 19 Light Artillery Aircraft. In 2000, he joined Waverley RSL as a Committee Member and Parade Commander, serving for 15 years. Dedicated to veterans' welfare, Rob has volunteered extensively, supporting fellow servicemen and women with pride, compassion, and unwavering commitment to community and remembrance.	Ross Smith Ross Smith is a distinguished Musculoskeletal and Sports Physiotherapist with over 45 years’ experience, including roles with the Australian Olympic Team, Defence Force, and elite sports teams. A Fellow of the Australian Sports Medicine Federation, he has served as Chief Olympic Team Physiotherapist and a Lieutenant in the Army Reserve. Ross has developed injury prevention programs for Special Forces and continues contributing to professional standards via national committees in sports physio.	Dave Bergman David Bergman joined the Regular Army in 1981, serving with 3 RAR before transferring to the Reserve in 1985. He served with 1 Cdo Regt and later commissioned as an Engineer Officer. While in the Reserve, he worked in corporate training, local government, and waste management. Returning to the Regular Army in 2000, David held various Engineer Corps and non-corps roles, deploying operationally multiple times. He retired in 2024 after a distinguished career.
Andi Kauer Andi Kauer began military service in 1995 with 26 Transport Squadron. After a medical discharge, he rejoined as a Reservist in 2004, serving with JMCO Melbourne and 3MP Company before a second discharge. Though never deployed, his dedication remained unwavering. Andi now plays Wheelchair AFL for Hawthorn and engages with RSL Active. His journey reflects resilience, pride in service, and a commitment to purpose beyond the military.	Peter Campion Signalman Peter Campion began his military journey in 1979 with 2 Commando Company, earning his Green Beret in 1980. After discharge in 1982, he re-enlisted in 2010 at age 49, serving with 108 and 301 Signal Squadrons, 1st Commando Regiment. A skilled Radio Operator, he supported operations in the Solomon Islands and Exercise Talisman Sabre. Retiring in 2023, Peter’s decorated service spans over four decades, marked by operational excellence and unwavering commitment to Australia’s defence.	Jan Gallagher Jan Gallagher began her naval career in 1966 with the WRANS and was among 14 women selected for the RAN Reserve trial in 1980. Balancing service with a teaching career, she rose to Lieutenant Commander over 41 years, with deployments to Bahrain and New Zealand. Jan later served at HMAS Cerberus and its Heritage Centre. A passionate volunteer, she has held key roles in naval and veteran organisations, championing women’s service and community leadership.
Michael Newbond Michael Newbond was born in Calcutta, India, in 1950 and migrated to Melbourne in 1969. A skilled toolmaker, he worked across industry and Defence roles, later managing businesses and serving as a Technical Advisor. He joined the Army Reserve in 1974, rising to Major over 42 years of service. Passionate about community and veterans' affairs, he now serves as President of the Clayton RSL Sub-Branch. Michael is proudly supported by his wife, Janice.	Bruna Norrish Bruna Norrish enlisted in the Australian Army at 17, launching a 17-year career that included deployments to East Timor and a British Army exchange. Now a civilian with the Department of Defence at Victoria Barracks Melbourne—where her journey began—Bruna continues her service through volunteering with Disaster Relief Australia and Women Veterans Network Australia. Her story reflects resilience, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to community, veteran support, and giving back.	Peter Kemp Peter Kemp is an accomplished arts writer, theatre performer, and community servant. His lifelong passion for theatre began in 1939 and has flourished through writing, dance, and media. A veteran and civic leader, he served in the artillery and led Search & Rescue operations. Today, he is a publicist for several veteran organizations and hosts Peter’s Preferences on 88.3FM. Peter also runs an online theatre magazine, sharing global reviews at www.pktheatre.com.
Mark Keritz Royal Australian AirForce -Central Flying School in Sale	Neale Bavington Brigadier Neale Bavington, born in Melbourne in 1934, is a distinguished Australian Army officer with deep military heritage. Commissioned in 1955, he served across infantry, artillery, intelligence, and logistics, earning the Field Marshal Sir Thomas Blamey Sword of Honour. He commanded the 3rd Divisional Field Force Group and re-raised the 4th Brigade. A mentor and moderniser, he also served as honorary Aide-de-Camp to two Governors-General. His career reflects enduring service and leadership.	Marty Grogan Martin Greville Grogan OAM, born in 1946 in South Melbourne, served with distinction in the Royal Australian Navy for 55 years, rising to Warrant Officer. A dedicated veteran advocate and museum volunteer, he has held leadership roles in multiple naval and community organisations. Widowed in 2012, he is father to three accomplished children. A marathon runner and lifelong volunteer, Martin received the Order of Australia Medal in 2006 for service to youth and Navy veterans.
Joan Gibson Joan Gibson enlisted in the Australian Army Medical Women’s Service in 1943 at just 18. She served in medical and veterinary stores, operating the switchboard before being posted to Japan at 21, where she met her future husband, Douglas. They married in 1949 in Camberwell and raised a proud military family spanning three generations. Now over 100 years old, Joan is a remarkable centenarian whose legacy of service and dedication continues to inspire.	Keith Slater Keith Slater was conscripted into the RAAF at Laverton in January 1957, serving in general workshop duties until March. After a career in sales, he retired in 1965 and began dedicating his time to volunteer work. He contributed to the Studfield Wantirna Community News, which led him to support the Aussie Vet’s Opportunity Shop in Boronia. Keith also volunteers at the Upwey RSL Service Museum, proudly continuing his commitment to community and veterans.	John Todd Dennis John Todd, known as John, served with courage during WWII, surviving the Blitz, enlisting in 1943, and fighting in North Africa and Italy, including Monte Cassino. He later joined the Parachute Regiment and served in post-war Palestine. Remarkably surviving a burst appendix on the front lines, he exemplified resilience. Emigrating to Australia in 1949, he transitioned to a life of peace. His service earned him multiple medals, honoring his bravery and dedication.
John Saunders John Charles Saunders served in the Citizen Military Forces from 1963 to 1967 with the 3rd Division Signals Regiment. As a communications specialist, he contributed to critical operations during a pivotal time in Australia's defence history. Known for his quiet professionalism, he continued his connection to service through the RSL (Badge No. V57546). John’s enduring commitment reflects the values, resilience, and pride of Australia’s citizen-soldiers who served with honour and purpose.	Doug Knight Colonel Doug Knight served 49 years in the Australian Army, starting with 2 Commando Company and advancing to senior roles in Special Forces, training, and civil-military operations. He led key missions, including World Youth Day 2008 and Operation VIC FIRES ASSIST. Post-service, Doug worked in Defence and global humanitarian efforts. A decorated veteran, he now leads the Australian Commando Association (Victoria) and Legacy, while remaining active in military history and community service.	Don Bergman Don Bergman began his military service with 5/6 Royal Victorian Regiment before becoming a founding member of 2 Commando Company in 1954. He served actively, including in Vietnam, and remained with the unit until retirement. Don contributed his professional expertise to Defence projects, notably crafting Coastal Navigation Training aids still in use today. A dedicated volunteer at The Shrine for 15 years, he also carved artwork from Lone Pine wood for the Australian War Memorial.
Bert Biggs Bert Biggs, born in Healesville in 1923, grew up on a potato farm in Toolangi before enlisting in the RAAF during WWII. Serving as a mechanic with 451 Squadron, he saw action in North Africa, Corsica, France, and Italy. Post-war, he built a life as a respected builder, inspector, and family man in Thornbury. Awarded France’s Legion of Honour, Bert was a devoted husband, father, and veteran, known for his courage, humility, and enduring community spirit.	Bob and June McIvor Robert Bruce McIvor has dedicated over 20 years to veterans’ support, earning an OAM for his service. He has led the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia’s Victorian Branch as State President since 2008 and the Monash Sub-Branch since 2006. Beyond veterans’ advocacy, he’s mentored youth through Hand Brake Turn for over two decades. Based in Glen Waverley, Robert continues to champion community engagement with unwavering dedication, leadership, and compassion.	Andrew MacKinnon Andrew Mackinnon has served the Royal Australian Navy and Defence community for over 50 years in both uniform and civilian roles. A former ship commander and Principal Warfare Officer, he earned the Conspicuous Service Cross for leadership in Pacific defence cooperation. Post-retirement, he led major naval infrastructure projects and co-authored the 2012 Hawke Review. Now retired in Melbourne, he remains active in naval heritage, reflecting a lifelong commitment to service and leadership.
Harry Moffitt Anthony ‘Harry’ Moffitt is a psychologist, former SAS Team Commander, and Managing Director of Stotan Group, specializing in high-performance consulting across elite sports, military, and corporate teams. A Partner at the Mission Critical Teams Institute, he founded the SAS Wanderers Education Program. He’s a keynote speaker, musician in The Externals, and author of Eleven Bats. Married for 27 years with two children, Harry values integrity, humour, creativity, and is writing his 2nd book.	Jennifer Marr Jen began her Army Reserve career in 1978 with the WRAAC and later transitioned into the Regular Army, serving in administration, instruction, and ICT roles. She was a trailblazer, often the only woman in her unit, and contributed to ceremonial duties, uniform reforms, and IT advancements. Medically discharged in 1999, she later worked in IT security at Home Affairs and Defence. Since retiring, she has remained active in the RSL community through leadership and volunteer work.	Kay Collett Kay Collett is a pioneering Australian radiographer who served with distinction as part of the first Australian Surgical Team deployed to Bien Hoa, South Vietnam, from January to July 1966. Working at the Bien Hoa Provincial Hospital, she played a vital role in providing medical care to Vietnamese civilians, including Viet Cong patients. Her dedication and compassion in a challenging wartime environment left a lasting impact on both the local community and her fellow medical personnel.
Peter Stokes Peter Stokes, son of a veteran of both World Wars, was drawn early to military life. Graduating from the Royal Military College in 1956, he served with distinction across Australia, Papua New Guinea, Vietnam, and India. Rising to Lieutenant Colonel, he commanded 6RAR and served as Defence Attaché in Malaysia. His career spanned pivotal operations, training innovations, and international diplomacy. Peter concluded his service in 1981, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and dedication.	Luke Fegen Luke is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in Defence, Emergency, and Special Operations. A former Commando with the Australian Army, he served with 4RAR and the 2nd Commando Regiment, achieving elite qualifications in parachuting and combat leadership. As Director of SORD Australia, he leads innovation in tactical gear design. Luke is known for his leadership, risk management expertise, and commitment to excellence, living by the ethos, “I’m a Viking, not a Spartan".	Robert Osborne Robert Osborne served with distinction in 2 Commando Company from 1970 to 1981, rising from Lance Corporal to Platoon Sergeant. As part of Australia’s elite Army Reserve unit, he completed specialist training in parachuting, diving, unarmed combat, small craft handling, and advanced medical and communications skills. His decade of service exemplified endurance, technical skill, and strong leadership. Robert’s legacy remains a testament to his professionalism and the high standards of the ASF.
Sam Gartner Sam Gartner served as a Ready Reservist in the Australian Army, enlisting in 1995 during his Civil and Computer Engineering studies. He completed full-time service and Reserve duties across the Armoured, Ordnance, and Engineer corps. Training at Kapooka, Puckapunyal, Bandiana, Moorebank, and Oakleigh shaped his skills and values. Despite a back injury during tank training, Sam’s service forged lasting friendships and deep respect for military life, an experience he reflects on with gratitude.

bottom of page