Nasho Fair Go seeking members ahead of milestone anniversary
A message from Nasho Fair Go
As it approaches its fifth anniversary, Nasho Fair Go Ltd (NFG), the only Australia‑wide association exclusively representing servicemen conscripted between 1965 and 1972 who did not serve in the Vietnam War, is putting out the call for more members.
Established by Victorian Nasho Geoff Parkes in 2022, NFG has grown quickly, clearly tapping into a need for mateship, camaraderie and social support for the remaining men who were called up for National Service and are now aged between 74 and 81.
‘63,000 of us were conscripted back then – only around a quarter of us saw direct combat in Vietnam, but we were still compelled to serve 2 years of military training and service – in Australia, Borneo, Singapore, Papua New Guinea and Malaysia,’ Mr Parkes said.
‘So, while most of us did not see direct, active military service, our training was identical to Australia’s regular soldiers – we were trained for war.
‘Now, some 50 years on, we think there are about 30,000 living Nasho veterans, and we want to bring them together because we are finding that reuniting old friends, reminiscing and reflecting on years gone by is so important.’
Mr Parkes said another key function of NFG was to keep members up to date with the various medical benefits and entitlements they are able to access in their senior years.
‘We don’t have time on our side anymore,’ Mr Parkes said. ‘Our average age is approaching 80 and our numbers are dwindling year-by-year.
‘Having an association like NFG, which is able to support members to access health care, lodge a claim and get the most out of the White Card provided by the DVA has been very well received.
‘Just like our training days, I really feel we have an obligation to help each other. That’s what NFG is all about.’
NFG is aiming to reach the 5,000 member mark before the end of 2026. To find out more and join up visit www.nashofairgo.com.au/nasho-registration-page.