Darwin Hop-In Centre renaming Ceremony.

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At 9:45am on Friday 23rd October, 2009, invited guests gathered for the history making ceremony to take place.  Brigade Commander, Brigadier Michael Krause ADC attended, along with Brigade RSM, WO1 Don Spinks OAM.  CO’s and RSM’s from all units were invited to attend, along with 3 junior rank soldiers from their individual units.  Also attending was Major John Freind, Regional Officer of The Salvation Army, Northern Territory Region, and Brigade Chaplains.   It was intended that these representatives would experience all that the centre has to offer, and then go back and spread the news to those under their influence.

 

The ceremony commenced at 10am with RSDS Commissioner, Major Henry May OAM welcoming the guests.  In his introductory remarks, Henry told of the history of the early beginning of the RSDS, and how it has developed over the years, and how the Red Shield symbol was designed to represent The Salvation Army’s military service.  He went on to explain how the idea to name the building grew from observing how each building on Robertson Barracks had a name. Such a name gave the building an identity which serves, not only to locate the site, but also to remember those who have served before. In this case, the building would bear the name of one of the first philanthropic representatives to serve the military with a mobile ‘hop in’, and it would also mean that any future philanthropic organisation given the responsibility as custodian of the centre could do so without having to change the name of the centre.  The name chosen for this hop in is The Albert Moore Recreation Centre.   (Display boards showing Albert Moore and historic photos from the past and present were displayed around the centre at the time of this ceremony.) Adjutant Moore is known for his work in Papua New Guinea and pictured below is the mobile hop in he set up in the jungle of New Guinea, and (on right) lighting a cigarette for Lieutenant Valentine Gardener, 2/14th Battalion, on the Kokoda Track, October 1942.

 

RSDS Representative, Major Sue May read a message of congratulations and thanks from the Chief Commissioner, RSDS—National, Major Barry Nancarrow. Captain Andrew McNeill, Chaplain 1CSSB, prayed a prayer of dedication and blessing over the centre as the guests gathered round.  A wonderful morning tea was supplied by the brigade caterers and enjoyed by all as they mingled together.  Many took the opportunity to have a look at the facilities and were impressed by what was available for the troops to enjoy.