Lest We Forget

On ANZAC Day, we take this time to remember all who have served for our country. While those who participated in active service were heavily impacted by the sights of war, often the effects were felt by family members as well.

Burpengary Manor resident, Gloria, reflects on her wartime experience, during the second world war. At the age of 18, Gloria worked for the Army Canteen Service in Brisbane. This provided support for the defence members, allowing them to purchase items including cigarettes, soft drinks, food and other goods. Gloria tells us that during this time of working for the Army Canteen Service, she did not have a rank or a uniform; however, her husband, Noel, was a stoker on the HMAS Kanimbla1945-1949.

Gloria’s role as a Ledger Machine Operator involved typing accounts on the ledger machine. She recalls that she learned to be a fast typist and efficient in mathematics. She also delivered supplies to other army canteens around the Brisbane area.

During her time with the Army Canteen Service, Gloria was asked to go and work in Japan, but her father firmly said, ‘NO’.

Gloria’s daughter, recalls her saying, ‘We had to keep the end of the war a secret. We were told first in the morning and weren't allowed to tell anyone. When it was made public, I remember everyone dancing in the streets.'