LEST WE FORGET They went with songs to the battle they were young.Straight of limbtrue of eyes, steady and aglow They were staunch to the end against odds uncountedThey fell with their faces to the foe They shall grow not oldas we that are left grow oldAge shall not weary themnor the years condemn At the going down of the sun and in the morningWe will remember them They mingle not with their laughing comrades againThey sit no more at familiar tables of homeThey have no lot in our labour of the day-timeThey sleep beyond England's foam Lest We Forget Photo: First Returned Services League 1915 (First ANZAC DAY) The Corso Manly

THE ANZAC ON THE WALL I wandered thru a country town, 'cos I had some time to spare, And went into an antique shop to see what was in there. Old Bikes and pumps and kero lamps, but hidden by it all, A photo of a soldier boy – an Anzac on the Wall. 'The Anzac have a name?' I asked. The old man answered 'No'. The ones who could have told me mate, have passed on long ago. The old man kept on talking and, according to his tale, The photo was unwanted junk bought from a clearance sale. 'I asked around', the old man said, 'but no-one knows his face, He's been on that wall twenty years... Deserves a better place. For some-one must have loved him, so it seems a shame somehow.' I nodded in agreement and then said, 'I'll take him now.' My nameless digger's photo, well it was a sorry sight A cracked glass pane and a broken frame - I had to make it right To prise the photo from its frame I took care just in case, Cause only sticky paper held the cardboard back in place. I peeled away the faded screed and much to my surprise, Two letters and a telegram appeared before my eyes The first reveals my Anzac's name, and regiment of course John Mathew Francis Stuart - of Australia's own Light Horse. This letter written from the front... My interest now was keen This note was dated August seventh 1917 'Dear Mum, I'm at Khalasa Springs not far from the Red Sea They say it's in the Bible - looks like a Billabong to me. 'My Kathy wrote I'm in her prayers... she's still my bride to be I just can't wait to see you both, you're all the world to me. And Mum you'll soon meet Bluey, last month they shipped him out I told him to call on you when he's up and about.' 'That bluey is a larrikin, and we all thought it funny He lobbed a Turkish hand grenade into the CO's dunny. I told you how he dragged me wounded, in from no man's land He stopped the bleeding, closed the wound, with only his bare hand.' 'Then he copped it at the front from some stray shrapnel blast It was my turn to drag him in and I thought he wouldn't last. He woke up in hospital, and nearly lost his mind Cause out there on the battlefield he'd left one leg behind.' 'He's been in a bad way Mum, he knows he'll ride no more Like me he loves a horse's back, he was a champ before. So Please Mum can you take him in, he's been like my own brother Raised in a Queensland orphanage he' s never known a mother.' But Struth, I miss Australia Mum, and in my mind each day I am a mountain cattleman on high plains far away. I'm mustering white-faced cattle, with no camel's hump in sight And I waltz my Matilda by a campfire every night I wonder who rides Billy, I heard the pub burnt down I'll always love you and please say hooroo to all in town'. The second letter I could see, was in a lady's hand An answer to her soldier son there in a foreign land. Her copperplate was perfect, the pages neat and clean It bore the date, November 3rd 1917. 'T'was hard enough to lose your Dad, without you at the war I'd hoped you would be home by now - each day I miss you more' 'Your Kathy calls around a lot since you have been away To share with me her hopes and dreams about your wedding day. And Bluey has arrived - and what a godsend he has been We talked and laughed for days about the things you've done and seen' 'He really is a comfort, and works hard around the farm, I read the same hope in his eyes that you won't come to harm. McConnell's kids rode Billy, but suddenly that changed. We had a violent lightning storm, and it was really strange.' 'Last Wednesday, just on midnight, not a single cloud in sight, It raged for several minutes, it gave us all a fright. It really spooked your Billy - and he screamed and bucked and reared And then he rushed the sliprail fence, which by a foot he cleared' 'They brought him back next afternoon, but something's changed I fear It's like the day you brought him home, for no one can get near. Remember when you caught him with his black and flowing mane? Now Horse breakers fear the beast that only you can tame,' 'That's why we need you home son' - then the flow of ink went dry- This letter was unfinished, and I couldn't work out why. Until I started reading, the letter number three A yellow telegram delivered news of tragedy, Her son killed in action - oh - what pain that must have been The same date as her letter - 3rd November 1917 This letter which was never sent, became then one of three She sealed behind the photo's face - the face she longed to see. And John's home town's old timers - children when he went to war Would say no greater cattleman had left the town before. They knew his widowed mother well - and with respect did tell How when she lost her only boy she lost her mind as well. She could not face the awful truth, to strangers she would speak 'My Johnny's at the war you know, he's coming home next week.' They all remembered Bluey he stayed on to the end. A younger man with wooden leg became her closest friend. And he would go and find her when she wandered old and weak And always softly say 'yes dear - John will be home next week.' Then when she died Bluey moved on, to Queensland some did say. I tried to find out where he went, but don't know to this day. And Kathy never wed - a lonely spinster some found odd. She wouldn't set foot in a church - she'd turned her back on God. John's mother left no Will I learned on my detective trail. This explains my photo's journey, of that clearance sale. So I continued digging, cause I wanted to know more. I found John's name with thousands, in the records of the war. His last ride proved his courage - a ride you will acclaim The Light Horse Charge at Beersheba of everlasting fame. That last day in October, back in 1917 At 4pm our brave boys fell - that sad fact I did glean. That's when John's life was sacrificed, the record's crystal clear But 4pm in Beersheba is midnight over here...... So as John's gallant spirit rose to cross the great divide, Were lightning bolts back home, a signal from the other side? Is that why Billy bolted and went racing as in pain? Because he'd never feel his master on his back again? Was it coincidental? same time - same day - same date? Some proof of numerology, or just a quirk of fate? I think it's more than that you know, as I've heard wiser men, Acknowledge there are many things that go beyond our ken Where craggy peaks guard secrets 'neath dark skies torn asunder, Where hoof-beats are companions to the rolling waves of thunder Where lightning cracks like 303's and ricochets again Where howling moaning gusts of wind sound just like dying men. Some Mountain cattlemen have sworn on lonely alpine track, They've glimpsed a huge black stallion - Light Horseman on his back. Yes Sceptics say, it's swirling clouds just forming apparitions Oh no, my friend you can't dismiss all this as superstition. The desert of Beersheba - or windswept Aussie range, John Stuart rides on forever there - Now I don't find that strange. Now some gaze upon this photo, and they often question me And I tell them a small white lie, and say he's family. 'You must be proud of him.' they say - I tell them, one and all, That's why he takes - the pride of place - my Anzac on the Wall. By Jim Brown

I stand alone in the twilightWith a letter in my hand;A letter and a sprig of wattlefrom Australia, in my hand.Only a sprig of wattleBut how it thrills me through.With pain and pleasure mingledas my thoughts fly back to you.To you, and the days of my childhoodWhen together we rambled the plainGathered wattle by the armful –Oh for those days again.For an hour in the yellow branchesTo watch the showers of goldAs the blossoms glisten in the sunshineAnd the beauties of God unfold.Here I stand in a foreign countryBut my spirit’s with you at homeFor your little sprig of wattlehas linked us over the foam.   For ANZAC Day - 25 April 2014The Thoughts of an Aussie Soldier -Eric's Poem written byEric Stanley Eggins (aged 21) in the A.I.F. 42nd Battalion in France 1917, WW1. This poem was sent to us by Eric’s granddaughter, Barbara Armstrong(24 April 2014). Barbara writes:I thank him and all other Australians who have and still are, serving this great country of Australia. My grandfather and stepfather were some of the 'lucky ones' who returned home from many theatres of war, though 'lucky' may not be the right word for what happens in war 1,000s of miles away that doesn't stay there when they leave. We are the 'lucky' ones. Thank you Grandad Eggins and Phil Prentis and all those brave Aussie Diggers for the freedom we enjoy.   Photo in this post Sutton son, Edward or Jack....WW1 date unknown

The Drover  Away out west where the soil is red and the fences far betweenThere has been a drought for over a year and the cattle are poor and leanThe drover is slouched in his saddle, as he moves the herd alongFor he knows if he were to hurry, it surely would be wrongHe must head for greener pastures 'ere the cattle fall and dieAnd the look on his face is worried as he searches the cloudless skyFor the sun shines down so fiercely with a burning blistering heatThat you only find in the outback where the plains and desert meetHis thoughts went back to the years gone by, and of trips he had made beforeThe one that stood out stark and clear was in the drought of thirty fourWhen the ground was bare, the water scarce, and the sand began to creepTill they covered the land for a hundred miles and were over ankle deep It was there he learned in this big vast land if you wish to stay aliveYou must have the strength of a dozen men and the willpower to surviveThe strong would live; the weak must die for the law of the land was soAnd the white bones bleached in the desert sands were the proof that it could be so So he gazed ahead with his grey green eyes and knew what he must doHe moved the herd at a steady pace till he reached the river BarcooThere he sat and watched ‘till they’d had their fill and grazed on the lush green grassThen felt the joy of a job well done and a haven reached at lastFred Clausen (1934)

Choosing Fabric for Logo Printed T-Shirts When it comes to custom logo t-shirt printing, not all fabrics are created equal. Different materials have unique properties that affect how well they print and how they feel on the body. Here are some of the most popular fabric types for custom t-shirts: Choosing the right fabric for your custom logo t-shirt printing needs is crucial for enhancing the appearance, comfort, and durability of your shirts. Whether for personal use, promotional events, or brand merchandise, the fabric you select can significantly influence the final product's look and feel. In this article, we’ll explore various fabrics and their suitability for custom logo printing to help you make the best choice for your next project. Cotton Cotton is a natural fabric that is often regarded as the most comfortable option for t-shirts. It's breathable, soft, and has excellent print quality, making it a top choice for custom designs. However, pure cotton can sometimes be prone to shrinking and wrinkling, so consider opting for a ring-spun cotton or pre-shrunk option for better quality. Polyester Polyester is a synthetic material known for its durability and moisture-wicking properties. It holds its shape well over time and resists wrinkling and shrinking. Polyester is also great for vibrant prints, particularly when using dye-sublimation printing techniques. Ideal for activewear, polyester might not be as soft as cotton but performs well in various conditions. Cotton-Polyester Blends Cotton-polyester blends combine the best of both worlds, offering breathability and comfort alongside durability and wrinkle resistance. This type of fabric is an excellent choice for those looking to have a balance of softness and longevity in their custom t-shirts. A common blend ratio is 60% cotton and 40% polyester, which tends to provide a comfortable fit with modest durability. Factors to Consider When Choosing Fabric Before settling on a fabric for your custom logo t-shirts, consider the following factors to ensure you select the right material for your needs: Intended Use Think about how and when the shirts will be worn. Will they be for casual wear, sports, or promotional events? For example, if you're printing for a sports team, moisture-wicking materials like polyester would be ideal. For more general use, cotton or a cotton blend would shine. Print Quality and Techniques The fabric you select affects the print quality. Some fabrics absorb ink better, leading to sharper, more vivid designs. For screen printing, cotton and cotton-blends work exceptionally well, while polyester is better suited for dye-sublimation. It's essential to choose a fabric that aligns with the printing technique you'll be using. Comfort and Wearability A shirt's comfort can make or break its appeal. If the fabric feels rough or is overly tight, it may not be worn often. Always consider how the material feels against the skin and whether it's suitable for the environment where it will be worn. Exploring Alternative Fabrics While cotton and polyester blends are popular, several alternative fabrics can also be considered for custom t-shirts: Tri-Blends Tri-blend fabrics are made from a mix of cotton, polyester, and rayon. They offer exceptional softness, durability, and a unique vintage look, making them excellent for stylish custom t-shirts. Tri-blends are often more expensive but can justify the cost with their comfort and fashionable appeal. Bamboo and Hemp For eco-conscious consumers, bamboo and hemp fabrics are sustainable alternatives that are both soft and breathable. They are naturally moisture-wicking, perfect for those looking for comfort while being environmentally friendly. Consider these options if your brand emphasizes sustainability. The Importance of Fabric Weight Fabric weight plays a significant role in the overall feel and durability of the t-shirts: Lightweight Fabrics Lightweight t-shirts (usually 3-4 oz) are great for warm weather and are often more comfortable to wear. However, they may be less durable than heavier options and could wear out more quickly with frequent use. Midweight and Heavyweight Fabrics Midweight (4.5-6 oz) fabrics strike a balance between durability and comfort, making them a suitable choice for everyday wear. Heavyweight fabrics (6 oz and above) offer a more structured look and feel great for high-quality merch and branded apparel. Making the Right Choice for Your Custom T-Shirts Selecting the right fabric for your custom logo t-shirt printing is paramount. By understanding the types of fabrics available and considering factors like intended use, print quality, and comfort, you can make informed decisions that enhance the final product. Whether you choose popular options like cotton and polyester or explore alternative materials, ensure that your selection aligns with the vision and purpose of your custom shirts. Remember, the right fabric doesn’t just improve aesthetics; it can also impact brand perception and customer satisfaction. Now that you’re equipped with knowledge, let your creativity flow, and create custom t-shirts that your audience will love to wear! Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Here are some common questions regarding fabric selection for custom logo t-shirts: 1. What is the best fabric for custom logo t-shirts? The best fabric depends on the specific needs of your project. Cotton offers softness and breathability, while polyester provides durability and moisture-wicking properties. Cotton-polyester blends offer a balanced choice of both qualities. 2. Can I use organic fabrics for custom t-shirts? Yes! Organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp are great options that provide comfort and sustainability, making them suitable for eco-friendly custom t-shirt projects. 3. How does fabric weight affect my design? Fabric weight impacts the overall drape, feel, and durability of the t-shirt. Choosing the right weight will enhance both comfort and the desired aesthetic of your design. 4. What printing techniques work best with different fabrics? Cotton works best with screen printing, while polyester is ideal for dye-sublimation. For blends, consider the specific qualities of each fabric to determine the best printing method.

As we step into 2025, Lost Manly is excited to announce a fresh chapter! While we bid farewell to the old, our commitment to preserving local history and its nostalgic charm remains strong.   We're thrilled to unveil an updated selection of products that showcase the beauty of our community. Explore our newly designed merchandise, celebrating local history while embracing vibrant artistry from our talented member artists. Discover the Local Artists making local art collections printed on Canvas Tote Bags and Linen blend Cushion Covers. Each piece is adorned with breathtaking artwork that captures the essence of Sydney and the Northern Beaches—from sunsets at Manly Beach to the vibrant sailing scenes on Sydney Harbour.   Additionally, don’t miss the exquisite Indigenous Dot Paintings by Kim Cameron, depicting the enchanting native flora and fauna of the Northern Beaches, including whales at Long Reef, kookaburras, and Waratahs.   Visit our cozy little shop of homewares and take advantage of our New Year discounts on these unique items—a perfect way to bring a piece of Lost Manly into your home!   Wishing you a happy and prosperous New Year! We look forward to sharing this journey with you.