Doug Phillips: 23 years an Army Cook
Posted on: Mon 27 Nov 2017
Doug’s 23 year career in the Australian Army Catering Corps began in 1972, so you can well imagine the unique insight we get as we accompany Doug through his many postings and the experiences that went with them.
Produced by Helen Meyer
Image source: Courtesy of Australian War Memorial https://www.awm.gov.au/index.php/collection/C211090 Copyright expired
Description: Katherine, NT 22.09.1943 Sgt NW Cook of the 1st Aust Farm Company, Australian Army Service Corps, watering 4 week old chickens on the unit’s farm.
Why did the Army decide to set up farms in the Northern Territory? Firstly, these areas were known for deficiency diseases caused by inadequate vitamin intake and there were concerns for the health of troops. During May 1939, the Chief Medical Officer advised that up to 25% of personnel at the Northern Territory garrisons had been on sick parade on one day. Dengue fever was also rife. It was recommended that fresh fruit and vegetables could assist in reducing the occurrence of these diseases. Reference https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/the-australian-army-and-farming-in-the-northern-territory
Photos provided by and used with permission of Doug Phillips 2017
1: Doug Phillips and Army friends fishing for baramundi circa 1970s
2: Doug during Army service in North Qld at Possession Island.
3: Doug Phillips circa 1970s
