MEMBERSHIP BULLETINS & MEDIA REL

The Christmas Broadcast 2007

One of the features of growing old is a heightened awareness of change. To remember what happened 50 years ago means that it is possible to appreciate what has changed in the meantime. It also makes you aware of what has remained constant.

In my experience, the positive value of a happy family is one of the factors of human existence that has not changed. The immediate family of grandparents, parents and children, together with their extended family, is still the core of a thriving community.

When Prince Philip and I celebrated our Diamond Wedding last month, we were much aware of the affection and support of our own family as they gathered round us for the occasion.

Now today, of course, marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Among other things, it is a reminder that it is the story of a family; but of a family in very distressed circumstances. Mary and Joseph found no room at the inn; they had to make do in a stable, and the new-born Jesus had to be laid in a manger. This was a family which had been shut out.

Perhaps it was because of this early experience that, throughout his ministry, Jesus of Nazareth reached out and made friends with people whom others ignored or despised. It was in this way that he proclaimed his belief that, in the end, we are all brothers and sisters in one human family.

The Christmas story also draws attention to all those people who are on the edge of society - people who feel cut off and disadvantaged; people who, for one reason or another, are not able to enjoy the full benefits of living in a civilised and law-abiding community. For these people the modern world can seem a distant and hostile place.

It is all too easy to 'turn a blind eye', 'to pass by on the other side', and leave it to experts and professionals. All the great religious teachings of the world press home the message that everyone has a responsibility to care for the vulnerable. Fortunately, there are many groups and individuals, often unsung and unrewarded, who are dedicated to ensuring that the 'outsiders' are given a chance to be recognised and respected. However, each one of us can also help by offering a little time, a talent or a possession, and taking a share in the responsibility for the well-being of those who feel excluded.

And also today I want to draw attention to another group of people who deserve our thoughts this Christmas. We have all been conscious of those who have given their lives, or who have been severely wounded, while serving with the Armed Forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. The dedication of the National Armed Forces Memorial was also an occasion to remember those who have suffered while serving in these and every other place of unrest since the end of the Second World War.

For their families, Christmas will bring back sad memories, and I pray that all of you, who are missing those who are dear to you, will find strength and comfort in your families and friends.

A familiar introduction to an annual Christmas Carol Service contains the words: 'Because this would most rejoice his heart, let us remember, in his name, the poor and the helpless, the cold, the hungry, and the oppressed; the sick and those who mourn, the lonely and the unloved.'

Wherever these words find you, and in whatever circumstances, I want to wish you all a blessed Christmas.

(COPIED FROM ROYAL.GOV.UK)

Australia ended the year, 2007, in a pretty bad state as far as the cause of Constitutional Monarchy is concerned.

The year saw republican governments ensconced in Canberra and in all six states. Although it was encouraging to see Dr. Brendan Nelson, a supporter, elected as Federal Coalition Leader, several State Liberal Opposition leaders declared their own support for a republic. The bitter pill was to see republicans appointed to the office of State Governor, a distinct anomaly since they are The Queen’s representatives! We sincerely hope that this retrograde step is not repeated when Governor-General Michael Jeffery retires this year. Further comment in this regard together with a note I have prepared on plans for a plebiscite have been incorporated into the new-format newsletter ‘Liberty’ which is enclosed with this letter.

Very regrettably, the League likewise ended the year in rather a sorry state with several financial supporters passing away and with a number of other members not renewing, thus drastically reducing our income at a time when there is so much more that must be done to safeguard our constitutional freedoms. The bitter pill was to learn that former Lord Mayor, Clem Jones, had made provision in his will for his hundred plus millions to be used in pursuit of his vision of a republic with a president directly elected by the people.

The period since the referendum of eight years ago has, I am afraid, seen the League becoming tired and reactionary instead of pro-active as we must now be. It is therefore important that, as we commence 2008, we all become imbued with a distinct sense of duty and obligation, for the time has come for us to renew ourselves and to expand our membership and above all to increase the participation of members in the administration of the League in all states. During the course of the year, I will be visiting each State to meet with members to inform and to be informed.

Due to frailty of our active support, it makes sense for the internet to be the major pro-active process with which we will educate, engage and expand, but the cost of necessary professional expertise will amount to many thousands of dollars. Accordingly, I strongly appeal to all those who are able, to contribute towards this vital need which is so very indispensable to our campaign. A form for this purpose can be found on the back page of the enclosed newsletter ‘Liberty’.

Above all, we must look upon 2008 as the year in which we replenish our vigour. As well as defending that which makes us free, we must bring into our councils new people of ability who will be able to take on the baton of leadership. That is our onerous task which, if successful, will ensure our own survival and, pray God, that of our constitutional security, well into the future. As always, we take encouragement from Winston Churchill who, in a 1941radio broadcast, said: “We shall not fail or falter; we shall not weaken or tire. Give us the tools and we will finish the job.”

I have been meaning to write to you for some time now. since there are a number of issues which I believe you should know about and to which I hope you will respond. We are now entering a dangerous phase in our fight against republicanism by stealth, and perhaps even more overt attempts by the enemies within the gates to overthrow our Constitutional Monarchy.

The first is the need for additional funds. Far too often Philip Benwell has had to use his own money to carry us through a mailing or some other necessary expense. This must end. Some members have forgotten to renew their subscription; to those I ask that you quickly bring your membership up-to date. However. we also need to increase our funds beyond those available from members' subscriptions. I now make an urgent request that you will all consider making an additional contribution to the funds of the League. Sit down now and write a cheque or ring the National Office and make a payment by credit card or enquire about other forms of payment. You might also consider making a regular payment on top of your subscription. If every member made a yearly contribution of what they might spend on a restaurant meal or a night's entertainment in addition to their annual subscription it would make it a lot easier for us to manage the League's cash flow.

Secondly, we need new members. If every member could bring in one new member it would be an enormous advance for us. May be every member cannot introduce a new member but if everyone tries we will surely significantly increase our membership base.

Concomitant with that, is the need for members to become more involved in the activities of the League. Please consider volunteering for membership of a committee, to serve on a State Committee. or to help with the many jobs that need doing at Head Office or when special activities are taking place.

Speaking of State Committees, I have become increasingly aware of the need for committees themselves to become more active and involve members in meetings and other activities. Further. it is imperative that all Branches raise funds, not only for their own activities but for the general funds of the League.

Recently, more and more has had to bc done by Philip Benwell alone; this is not fair and cannot be allowed to continue. Please consider how you can best help to take some of the load from his shoulders.

During the ANZAC weekend, a soldier who had spent time in Changi and on the infamous Thai-Burma Railway was asked what he longed for during those terrible years. He replied: “The freedom we had in Australia.”

We must always remember that this is what we ourselves are fighting for. Those wise men who drafted our Constitution, over a hundred years ago, ensured that at its heart would be The Crown, always protective of the interests of the people as a whole as opposed to the varying allegiances of our elected politicians.

For some months, I have been warning that those very freedoms will soon again be under attack and that we must prepare now for the next republican campaign. Some members complained that I was paranoid, that we can trust Kevin Rudd and even that I should make way for younger and less adversarial people to lead us.

Even following Prime Minister Rudd’s declaration, prior to his meeting with The Queen, that he is a republican, that his Government is republican and that there will be a debate on a republic—which he welcomes. Some members are also quick to point out that Mr Rudd had emphasized that a republic is not a high priority.

However, following the 20/20 Summit, which had been stacked with socialists and republicans—including 118 from one left wing group—all indications are that there will be several plebiscite questions to be put to voters at the next Federal Election in 2010. The major one, of course, being on implementing a republic.

The fact is, that despite whatever placatory words the Prime Minister may use to absolve his intentions, we can clearly expect a vigorous republican campaign over the next two years. Furthermore, it is not anticipated that any whatsoever funding will be provided to the NO case.

Never forget that, whatever the overwhelming forces that may be arraigned against us, and however the

general public may appear to be influenced by misleading questions and a biased media blitz of Misinformation, the majority of voters will back away, once they see the enormity of change at the referendum stage.

It is for the purpose of properly facing what is to come that we have been restructuring the League. We are now incorporated as an Association in New South Wales. Our new website should be up and running this month and ‘The Australian Monarchist Foundation’ has been legally established with an independent Board of reputable businessmen and professionals as Trustees. The Trust will oversee a bequest programme and will administer large donations. The Trustees are preparing a brochure which will be forwarded to all members. In the meanwhile, information can be obtained from Mr Paul Webster, Solicitor, care of the above address.

Our branches are already seeing an influx of new and young members, some of whom are now actively participating in our State Committees. The intention is that I will start to move into the background in an administrative, supervisory and training capacity with younger members becoming our public face, particularly in the media.

Much has been done and much needs to be done, but nothing can be achieved without your support and that of our other members, for you are all the lifeblood which sustains our cause of Liberty and Freedom under The Crown.