RSL Stalwarts Opt For Tree Change
Peter and Bobbie enjoy a farewell drink at the RSL
By Ross Carruthers
Peter Gilfoyle had a 20-year career in the Australian Army and has been a committed volunteer at the Tin Can Bay RSL for the past six years, including stints as President and his current role, Vice President.
Peter and his partner Bobbie are moving to Gayndah shortly to buy their first house together. I caught up with Peter for a chat at the RSL on Vietnam Veterans Day, a day dear to Peter, himself a Vietnam Veteran.
I asked Peter about his career in the army and in particular about his 12 month tour of Vietnam.
“I was in the army for just over 20 years and retired as a Warrant Officer Class 2,” said Peter. “My key role in Vietnam was management of controlled stores based in Vung Tai and Saigon. I arrived in Vietnam as a corporal and was then promoted to Sergeant and Acting Warrant Officer.
“Vietnam was just another army posting to me – I did my job to the best of my ability. I met a lot of great local Vietnamese people and was often invited to dinner at their homes.
“The hardest part of Vietnam was coming home – the reception we received from the Australian people was appalling and very disappointing. We were just doing our jobs and following orders and didn’t deserve that sort of treatment.”
Peter has really enjoyed his time in Tin Can Bay, especially meeting Bobbie, and his time volunteering with the RSL.
“Volunteering in Tin Can Bay has been very rewarding – in particular the people you meet and friends you make. It’s been a struggle for the RSL over COVID, but things are now looking up.”
Bobbie has lived in Tin Can Bay for 30 years and spent much of that time working at the Sleepy Lagoon Hotel, Country Club and more recently the RSL.
Peter and Bobbie are buying their first house together in Gayndah, after the housing market in Tin Can Bay became too hot.
“We’ve loved our time in Tin Can Bay, especially the people and the friendly small-town atmosphere. We’re really looking forward to our tree-change move to Gayndah, but will always have a soft spot in our hearts for Tin Can Bay.”
Well, we’re going to miss you too Peter and Bobbie. Thank you for your service!
