An excellent Keast extract

Life in Wartime: Stories of Resilience and Humor

The letters shared by Brian Keast of Minnamurra and Pamela Kerr of Moonta Bay offer a glimpse into the resilience and humor that defined life during challenging times. Brian reflects on the differences in wartime experiences between his wife’s life in Holland and his own in Australia. While his wife endured the horrors of bombs dropping in her street during World War II, Brian humorously recalls how soldiers were prioritized for Vegemite, a beloved Australian breakfast spread. This meant that, for years, he was denied the chance to enjoy it himself. Despite the hardships, Brian and his wife continue to discuss “serious issues” into their 80s, showing how shared experiences and humor can help navigate even the toughest of times.

Pamela Kerr, on the other hand, shares a story that blends memories of her past with a modern-day reflection. She recently rediscovered her autograph book, which included a now-cringeworthy ditty with the “n word.” Recognizing the sensitivity of the content, Pamela tore out the page, effectively re-writing history in her personal archive. Alongside this, she found autographs from famous figures like Col Joye, Peter Allen, and Lana Cantrell, all regulars on the popular Australian music show Bandstand. Her story highlights how our perceptions of the past evolve over time and how we choose to engage with memories that no longer align with our values.

A Century of Thoughts: The Timelessness of Human Wishes

Gail Ross of Newington shares a charming story about her aunt’s autograph book, which dates back to 1915. One particular entry, written by Maisie Doyle on September 23, 1915, stands out: “May you live as long as you want – And not want as long as you live.” This phrase, with its timeless wisdom, reminds us that certain hopes and wishes remain constant across generations. Gail also adds a playful touch, noting that Maisie didn’t look a day over 35 in a recent episode of Quantico her grandmother was watching. This anecdote bridges the past and present, showing how the thoughts and wishes expressed by our ancestors continue to resonate with us today.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Memories and the Enduring Spirit of Youth

Gara Baldwin of Randwick takes readers on a trip down memory lane, recalling her youth in Brisbane during the rock ‘n’ roll era. She remembers George, a local figure who would cruise up and down Queen Street in his iconic FX Holden every evening. While George may no longer be around, his car has found a permanent home in the Queensland Museum, preserving a piece of Brisbane’s cultural history for future generations. This story captures the essence of youth and the ways in which personal memories can become intertwined with the broader cultural fabric of a place.

Humor and Satire: Tarif