From duntroon1973class on July 10, 2026

It is with deep sadness that we have learned that Ed “Tac” Antoniak has lost his short but intense battle with MND. Ed’s family have advised via Chris Wallace that Ed died earlier this afternoon (Friday10 July 2026). Further info, including funeral arrangements will be notified in due course. Wal’s advice was as follows:“It is with much sadness we have to advise our dear classmate, Ed Antoniak, passed away today after his brave struggle with MND. Ed passed peacefully in the loving presence of his family. Ed kept his infectious sense of humour throughout this difficult time with courage and dignity.Our thoughts are with Wendy, Ben, Adam, and their families.Details of the Canberra based celebration of Ed’s life are to be advised.Rest in peace dear friend.”

Classmates gathered in Sydney with guests from earlier classes.

L to R
John Price, Duncan McInnes, Steve Despoges, Al McMurran, Paul Stratton (70), Paddy Ryan, Dave Wilkins (63) (OC Ala Coy 72), Peter McCann, Peter Lawrence, Jock Murray (70), Simon Willis (70), Bert Flynn (71), Gerry Jones, Peter Martyn.

And a thank you comment after the lunch: ‘Another great lunch today all the better for including invitees from earlier classes.’

According to custom, it is proposed that our 55^th Reunion (2027) be held in New Zealand. Our Kiwi classmates have suggested the weekend of 3-5 December (Fri-Sun) in Wellington which is central for the Kiwis and easy to fly into from Australia. 

Concept at this stage is for the usual format: Friday drinks and renew acquaintances; Saturday evening dinner; Sunday casual closing lunch.   There will be scope for other activities before and after – no doubt golf will get a mention.

More to follow. Please put this in your diaries. No need to ack at this stage.

The next Classmates lunch in Canberra is on Mon 30 March at 12 noon at the Hellenic Club, Matilda Street, Woden. Pat Cullinan has made a booking for 20 persons under his surname. 

This lunch is of course open to all classmates, partners and friends. Out of towners very welcome.

Please let Pat know if you intend to attend at patrick.cullinan@yahoo.com.au

Pat will send out a reminder email about a week before.

A large gathering of family, friends and former Army colleagues met at the Belconnen Soccer Club to farewell Mike Izzard and his wife Trish, who died within weeks of each other. Four of the Class of 1972 were there to represent the class, along with a couple from his Class of 1973 and quite a few from his Scheyville cohort.

Their son Chris is a Warrant Officer in RASIGS.

Mike’s Record of Service has been added to his section on the In Memoriam page.

Fifteen classmates met at the Arboretum on Thursday 29 January to celebrate the life of Nev White. A summary of that gathering is now on our In Memoriam page at https://duntroonclassof1972.com/in-memorium/

Congratulations to Bob Cramp (1973) in being awarded an OAM in this year’s Australia Day Honours List. Bob has been recognised for his service to the sport of shooting and to the community.

All Classmates who are available are invited to a gathering to celebrate the life of Nev White, who passed on 15 December 2025. We will meet at the Arboretum at 10 am on Thursday 29 January 2026. The Engineers will say a few words and then reflect with coffee etc. These will be purchased individually from the Cafe. No members of the White family will be present.

We hope that you are able to join us.