31st March 2021

Golden Fleece Swap cards

In the 1960s Golden Fleece petrol stations issued swap cards and introduced family restaurants to entice drivers to stop and refresh. In 1964 there was a series of 36 cards displaying Australian uniforms. Many of these uniforms have already been featured in posts. The text is quoted from that on the cards back.

From the back of the card: “When British regular troops were withdrawn from Western Australia in 1863 there were only three volunteer units in existence. But from that time the volunteer movement was to grow steadily. In 1899 Western Australia sent troops to South Africa to fight in the Boer War. The officer illustrated is in full dress uniform.’

From the back of the card: While serving in the Boer War and World Wars I and II, many brave nurses sacrificed their lives in the course of their duty. They have truly earned every serviceman’s deep respect and heartfelt thanks. This wonderful service is carried on today under the title of the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps.’ See also  http://www.austbuttonhistory.com/defence-forces-uniform-buttons/post-world-war-2/#ROYAL_AUSTRALIAN_ARMY_NURSING_CORPS

From the back of the card: ‘In June, 1941, there were only 22 women in this service, but at the outbreak of war with Japan in the December, (sic) the number had risen to the thousands. The service is still maintained by the R.A.N. and its duties are carried out in the traditions of the Women’s Royal Naval Service, which had its beginning in 1917.’