Gippsland Vietnam Veterans Chapter Memorial Wall
A lasting tribute to fallen brothers, Australian Defence Force
members and the communities that continue to honour their service.
The Journey to Drouin
Members of the Federal Veterans Chapter set out on Friday
20 October and rode approximately 680 kilometres to Drouin,
Victoria.
The purpose of the journey was to attend the dedication of
the Gippsland Chapter Fallen Brothers Memorial Wall on
Saturday 21 October.
Blessed with fine and sunny conditions, the ride carried a
strong sense of purpose. It provided an opportunity to stand
beside fellow chapter members, support the Gippsland Chapter
and honour the fallen brothers whose names are preserved on
the wall.
A Community Effort
A Year of Work and Commitment
The completion of the Memorial Wall was the result of
approximately a year of planning, construction and
cooperation.
Members of the local community donated materials, other
Veterans Motorcycle Club chapters supplied the details of
fallen brothers, and the Gippsland Chapter provided the
funding and labour required to construct the memorial.
The project became more than the construction of a physical
monument. It represented unity between club chapters, local
veterans, Australian Defence Force members and the wider
Gippsland community.
The Memorial Wall Panels
The Memorial Wall consists of six panels recognising fallen
brothers, supporters and Australian Defence Force members.
Vietnam Veterans and Veterans
A panel dedicated to members of the Vietnam Veterans and
Veterans Motorcycle Club who have passed.
Club Supporters
Recognition of Vietnam Veterans and Veterans Motorcycle
Club supporters who contributed to the club and its
community.
ADF Training Losses
A panel honouring Australian Defence Force members who lost
their lives while conducting training activities.
Baw Baw and Surrounding Areas
Two panels recognise Australian Defence Force members from
Baw Baw and the surrounding communities.
who served, supported the club and made the ultimate sacrifice.
An Ongoing Tribute
A Continuing Tradition of Remembrance
It is intended that the Memorial Wall dedication will
become an annual event.
Future commemorations will provide an opportunity for
additional fallen brothers to be honoured and for members,
families and the community to come together in tribute to
those who served.
The Memorial Wall will continue to grow as a place of
reflection, remembrance and connection between generations
of veterans and their communities.
Remembering Chilli Bob and Sumo
The dedication held special significance for the Federal Chapter,
with two of its members named on the Vietnam Veterans and Veterans
Memorial Wall.
Robert Verzeilberg
Known to his brothers as “Chilli Bob”
Remembered as a member of the Federal Chapter and forever
part of the brotherhood.
Daniel Burton
Known to his brothers as “Sumo”
Remembered as a member of the Federal Chapter and forever
part of the brotherhood.
Lest We Forget
Their Service and Brotherhood Will Be Remembered
The Gippsland Chapter Memorial Wall stands as a permanent reminder
of service, sacrifice, friendship and the responsibility we share
to remember those who have gone before us.