The origins of motorcycle clubs can be traced back to returned servicemen and evolved from a common bond of brotherhood. Men and women serving their country to protect a way of life against tyrannical enemies. Patriotic and passionate defenders of our freedoms. Within the M/C you’ll find like minded individuals

Fighting for a common cause, even though the risks are so high, is an honourable personality trait that not all possess. To believe so strongly and to have the instinct to defend isn’t completely natural to many and there are many detractors who will rally against the efforts of those dedicated to the cause.

Occupying a place of extreme conflict and not having the luxury to ignore it is what military personnel do. There’s often a stagnant, drawn-out period where training and conditioning, routine and repetition are a constant until called upon to perform their duty…a ‘hurry up and wait’ portion of time. But we can be thankful that this preparation exists so that when they go to work, our way of life and the freedoms we take for granted are defended.

As a result of highly charged, dangerous activities, many returned personnel can have difficulty integrating back into ‘normal’ society. With PTSD, public opinion and the change in lifestyle away from the military, many seek a place where they are understood without having to explain themselves. A place where brotherhood and camaraderie are ever present. A place where they can have some order. A place where they can still serve. A place to retreat that is safe. This is where motorcycle clubs come in.

Motorcycle clubs have always been misunderstood due to bad press and stigma. In past conflicts, returned military personnel have suffered similarly. When under attack, there’s often safety in numbers, especially if those numbers support and understand what you’re going through, hence the correlation of M/C and military personnel.

Combine the haven of a motorcycle club that understands the psyche of returned military personnel with the exhilaration you get from riding a motorcycle, with a community minded constitution and you have the perfect mix that is the Veterans M/C.

August 18^th is Vietnam Veterans Day, held on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, a brutal encounter with the enemy for Australian and Kiwi soldiers. A memorial service was held at FSB Pearlbrook, location of the Veterans clubhouse just out of Murrurundi, on the 17^th of August 2024 to honour those that served and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Attended by a number of clubs and other riders, the sun and air temperature indicating an early start to spring assured a good roll up on the day. Rain during the week soaked the grounds of the property, creating a bit of a challenge for those camping. Scotts creek was flowing pretty well after an overnight downpour, stranding a couple of punters on the opposite side to where all the food was! Some chose to stay in Murrurundi in the comfort of hotels and motels, but with a couple of the venues having their own courtesy bus, access to the service and the after party was a short 10-15 minutes away and a perfect ‘plan B’.

The service got under way around 3.30 and everyone gathered in silence to hear tributes and to pay respects to those who served both living and those who had passed on. Flowers and wreaths were laid at the memorial wall, flags lowered to half-mast and prayers were spoken. In true ANZAC spirit, members of Native Sons M/C performed the Haka in honour of Veterans from across the Tasman.

A brief history of the origins of Veterans M/C and it’s struggle to come into existence, outlining the trials and tribulations of establishing the club, whilst navigating the politics of other motorcycle clubs, community and government was delivered by one of the original founders of Veterans M/C Gary Vale, a Murrurundi local and returned veteran himself.

As mentioned earlier, the inbuilt need to serve is strong among the motorcycle community and with a double dose of M/C and military that the Veterans M/C has, it was only natural they presented donations to various local community organisations including RFS and the Murrurundi Hospital.

Smoke flairs and fireworks were set off whilst some original radio communications played over the PA to simulate battleground conditions. Proceedings were completed with the Lords Prayer and the playing of the Last Post.

There’s a kind of intuitive communication that motorcyclists share, an unspoken understanding of what it’s all about. If you know, you know. I imagine it’s the same for those that have (and do) serve in the military. It’s something you have to experience in order to understand it. I don’t profess to know what this unspoken meaning is for military personnel because I haven’t served, but I’m certain I saw it in the eyes of many that day at Pearlbrook. Rightfully proud, but equally affected by their experiences, this is the invisible glue that creates brotherhood.

Many attendees wearing medals gained through their service in the various branches of the military were scattered through the crowd paying homage to their comrades. Patriotism, community spirit and solidarity filled the air, a true display of brotherhood.

Below is a link to the gallery of images captured on the day...enjoy!

https://www.elegantglamourboudoir.com.au/proofing/veterans-memorial-pearlbrook?bec=1