By KATIE DE VERTEUIL
IF ANYONE knows about the history of Cooroy’s servicemen and women, it’s Ron and Betty Sutton.
Indeed they have spent years working to research the details of those who fought for our country, ensuring that they may be remembered for generations to come.
Betty is an historian for the Cooroy-Noosa Genealogical and Historical Research Group Inc. while Ron is heavily involved in Cooroy-Pomona RSL Sub-branch.
He was awarded life membership of the sub-branch last year, for 40 years of service.
Over the last 10 years the delightful couple have been delving into the local history of Cooroy, with particular focus on both pioneers and the servicemen and women of World War I and transcribing the RSL’s honour boards.
Betty also assists with the Adopt-a-Digger program.
“I have always been interested in local history since my dad and grandparents told stories of the past,” Betty said.
“The research began back in 1997 when Betty looked into the history of Cooroy RSL for the sub-branch 75th anniversary and it went from there. “When I discovered that there was little written of the history of Cooroy, I wanted to change this.”
Betty said that the research of servicemen and women was particularly important to keep their names alive. “As they say ‘Lest we forget’,” she said.
Although always interesting, the research challenge Ron and Betty have taken on is colossal and the pair are grateful to advances in technology which have eased the task.
“Early on in the research we had to go to Brisbane and it was a day spent peering at a microfilm reader,” Ron said.
“It’s much easier now as you can find so much online.
“It really is amazing what you can discover through the various websites.”
While Ron helps his wife with research, his real interest lies with the restoration of World War II military vehicles, of which he now has three Dodge half-ton models and one of the ubiquitous jeeps, which go out on special occasions such as Anzac Day and other parades and shows.
As soon as one begins to bring up the topic, his eyes light up and you know you’ll be on for a long chat.
“If anyone wants to know anything about World War II military vehicles, Ron is your man,” Betty said affectionately.
Having both grown up during World War II, Betty and Ron saw first-hand the effects of war and it is perhaps also for this reason that they are so interested in the history.
“We research for breakfast, lunch and dinner,” Ron said.
“Come on, don’t exaggerate,” Betty laughed, looking over at her husband.
“It never stops though, there is always something that comes up to research,” she agreed.
With Anzac Day fast approaching, Betty and Ron are busier than ever, the two retirees excited for the upcoming commemorations.
