The Club held it's ANZAC Commemoration in May this year and we were privileged to have 1956 Olympian and Club Member Bob Duncan speak about his father's experiences in both WWI and WWII. More importantly, the recovery from horrible war time experiences through rowing club life is a continuing message still relevant today. It was a memnorable speech appreciated by those present. To provide a flavour of his speech, the following is a tribute to his father extracted from Bob's own book, "Small Boat Rowers of the Fifties".

Harry served with distinction in both world wars. Between these two conflicts he was a senior oarsman and then a successful coach. His then highlight was coaching the Albert Park Senior Eight (stroke Alex McLeish) for the 1930 Victorian Championship - winning by a healthy 3½ lengths in the 6 crew race. 

He was back at the lake after World War 2 to help re-establish the club after its "wipe-out" by fire in 1945. The grand old shed and complete fleet had been reduced to ashes. In August 1949 I finally responded to his many months of encouragement to come along and "try-out". I'm so glad I finally did! 

Harry passed away in 1972 and it was only later our family discovered 72 foolscap pages of his "memoirs". One finger typing detailed his long rowing history and his "never previously mentioned" eventful times at war. Four years of horror followed his WWI enlistment at just 17. Two months at Gallipoli and later the victorious lighthorse charge at Beershebia in Palestine were part of his youth. He was "blown-up" twice but recovered each time after lengthy hospital stays. 

Best of all. .. and lucky for me ... he survived. Being a father/coach, his influence on the outcome of my eventful life was profound. I just wish I had known of his "war stuff" before his passing and been able to acknowledge all his lifetime contributions. His recognition was never adequate.