Wombat Justice 2005 Wombat Preparations

VALE Robert Winston (Win)  Keightley  8.3.40 – 2.11.10

Win joined RASigs in 1961 and after completing an Operator’s Wireless and Line (OWL’s) course he was posted to Combat Operations Squadron - 1 Sig Regt at Ingleburn.

Unfortunately his career in the army was cut short by health issues and he always felt cheated that he was denied the opportunity to serve his country longer than approx 3.5 years.

In 1986 Win and a couple of  his ex Sigs mates Bert Lane and Pat Buckley hired a houseboat and spent a leisurely few days on the River Murray.

This trip proved to be the forerunner to Operation Wombat – A series of Army Signals Reunions that occurred from 1996 – 2005. The holidays whilst relaxing, were run with military precision including formal dinners.

As part of Certa Cito 75 in 2000 eighteen houseboats with 137 persons onboard enjoyed a great celebration of the Corps 75^th birthday as part of the cruise.

The success of the Wombat Houseboat Trips was largely due to Win’s detailed planning and his organizational skills.

Win may have only had a short career in the army but his commitment to the Royal Australian Corps of Signals in the years of the Wombat Reunions was outstanding and had an enormous effect on maintaining esprit de corps within the ex serving members.

But there was much more to it. Win’s passion for the Murray River and the Riverland always shone through. He was happiest when boating, fishing or camping in the region. The Wombat Reunions enabled him to share this passion with the visitors. Wineries, local businesses and the region benefited financially by Win’s ability in getting (400) of his ex Signals mates to come for a holiday over 10 years.

Win’s standing and commitment to his local community in Loxton was acknowledged warmly by over 110 people attending his funeral on 9^th of November 10.

His coffin was draped with the Australian flag, the Corps flag and a small Wombat Banner. All things that were close to his heart.

He will be remembered fondly by Wombateers everywhere especially when they eat stew.

Win was a good man who loved his family, Jazz music and the simple pleasures of life.

Sincere condolences to his son Robert, daughter Andrea and their respective families.

Rest in peace Old Cobber                                   

                                                                                                        Brian Melville