Vietnam Veterans’ Widows’ High Tea 2026

Held in the beautiful Ballroom at the Hotel Windsor, the afternoon provided an opportunity for Vietnam Veterans’ widows to come together and acknowledge a significant and difficult period in Australian history.

For many families, the return of their husbands and fathers from Vietnam brought experiences and challenges that were not always easily understood by those around them. The impact of war could continue long after a soldier returned home, affecting both veterans and their families in many different ways.

Legatee and Vice President Kerry Jenke was the MC for the afternoon, guiding the gathering with warmth and sensitivity. Co-MC, Legatee Hugh Robertson spoke about the Battle of Long Tan, marking its 60th anniversary this year and reminding guests of the courage and sacrifice of those who served.

A particularly poignant part of the afternoon was hearing from John Schumann of Redgum, who spoke about his connection to the Vietnam War experience and the creation of his song, ‘I was only 19’.

While he was still at school at the start of the war, the conflict became real for him when a former student of his school was killed. It was no longer just something that happened on telly, as his school community felt the loss and rallied around the student’s family.

He mentioned that getting access to the veterans’ experience was difficult until his brother-in-law-to-be, Mick, was brave and trusting enough to open up to him. The mine experiences in the story pertain to an incident during Operation Mundingburra on 21 July 1969, which Mick experienced.

John is an accomplished speaker and has spoken on the creation of his song before. He said this time it was an honour and a privilege to perform to an audience who had such lived experience of the impacts of the war.  He then performed his much-loved song. For many of the widows, the familiar words and haunting melody brought back memories of a time that had shaped so much of their lives.

The Hotel Windsor Ballroom again provided a stunning venue, with elegant table settings and beautiful gold Tiffany chairs. Attentive staff ensured everyone felt welcome, while guests enjoyed an individual High Tea accompanied by a choice of 11 different teas. Many of our ladies travelled a long way to attend, such as those from Yarrawonga, Mansfield and Bendigo.

Of course, an afternoon such as this is about much more than the food and beautiful surroundings. It is about friendship, shared memories and the comfort of being among women who understand. The widows enjoyed catching up with old friends, meeting others and taking time together to acknowledge the past.