An Anzac Day Tribute
ANZAC Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.
General Sir John Monash was one of the principal organisers of the annual observance of ANZAC Day, as well as an advocate for Melbourne's Shrine of Remembrance. He was highly regarded as the most effective Australian military leader of World War I and played a prominent role in civil life on his return, advising governments and assisting ex-servicemen and women.
In honour of our 20th anniversary of awarding scholarships, we spoke with Major General Jim Barry AM MBE RFD ED (Retd), one of the founding members of the Foundation and Alison Frame, Secretary of the Department of Veteran's Affairs, supporters of our inaugural scholarship ANZAC Centenary about the legacy of ANZAC Day and the General Sir John Monash Foundation.
Major General Jim Barry AM MBE FD ED (Retd)
In 1951, Major General Jim Barry enrolled in the Citizen Military Forces and rose through the ranks in various artillery and headquarters positions to major general and appointment as Commander 3rd Division in 1985. On relinquishing command in 1987, he was appointed Honorary Colonel of Melbourne University Regiment. He was also appointed Colonel Commandant of Artillery – Victoria from 1992 to 1996.
He was the National President of the Defence Reserves Association between 2005 and 2013 and subsequently an Executive member as Past President. He is also Vice President-Reserves on the Defence Force Welfare Association. He is also a Foundation Member of the General Sir John Monash Foundation, a committee member of the Field Marshal Sir Thomas Blamey Memorial Fund and Deputy Chairman of the Spirit of Australia Foundation.
In this interview, Major General Jim Barry AM MBE RFD ED (Retd) talks about the importance of leadership, trust in community, and the significance of ANZAC Day.
How did you come to join the Army?
I joined the Army to avoid being conscripted.
What primary roles did you perform during your service with the Army?
Mainly command positions at all levels.
What did you find most rewarding about serving in the Army?
The structure of, and people within, the Army.
You are a recipient of a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for your service. How did you feel when you received this honour?
Pleased at being recognised for what I had achieved.
Many people talk about collaborating and building trust. Practically, how can the trust necessary for effective collaboration be achieved?
By communicating with ALL parties with honesty and good humour.
How do you ensure resilience in leadership during challenging times?
Believe in yourself and understand your role.
General Sir John Monash, who was one of the principal organisers of the annual observance of ANZAC Day, as well as an advocate for Melbourne's Shrine of Remembrance. What was your role in the origin of the General Sir John Monash Foundation?
I was one of three people that developed the concept.
For the younger generation John Monash Scholars, what would be your advice to them?
Congratulate them and explain that they are now on another professional journey in life.
What will you be doing this ANZAC day?
I will attend a Dawn Service and host a Luncheon function.
Alison Frame, Secretary of the Department of Veteran's Affairs
“The ANZAC Centenary John Monash Scholarship is a wonderful initiative. It will give veterans the opportunity to gain new skills, confidence and employment. Sir John Monash believed education gave people the chance to not only improve themselves but our broader society. Many who enlist in our armed services carry that desire to contribute to our nation. Through education, this scholarship will provide the opportunity for many veterans to carry that drive beyond service and into their civilian life. I congratulate the John Monash foundation on establishing their inaugural perpetual scholarship and wish all future scholars the best of luck.”