Scotch College

Bob O'Neil entertains at 150 Celebration Luncheon

The large acceptance of one hundred and ninety in attendance at the 150 Year Celebration Monthly Luncheon, caused the venue to be shifted to the Camberwell Civic Centre. Those attending were well pleased with the Guest Speaker, Professor Bob O'Neill's presentation on the international scene as it related to Defence, and Australia's role in its own preservation. It was an outstanding and illuminating summation of the problems and our needs.

He acknowledged the huge influence which his former Masters at Scotch had on him, and which introduced him to the global perspective. It was this which stimulated him to pursue the study of international affairs and defence.

He outlined the changes in warfare which had come about since Bismarck began the Franco-Prussian war, the tremendous losses of World War I and the rise of the ineffectual League of Nations had brought a realisation that aggression no longer guaranteed a successful outcome. The decimation of the Axis powers and the enormous losses that occurred following the Second World War, together with the formation of the United Nations had very greatly stemmed the aspirations of potential aggressors. Certainly the Korean War presented an example of the forces which could be rallied against a country with expansionist ideas.

Beyond this realisation he pointed out that a broader education and improved communications, together with the influence of trade and financial exchanges between countries, has lead to a greater understanding of each other's position. The democratic process, the strength of the United Nations and above all the needs of modern armies for a continual supply of oil have all contributed to reducing the likelihood of a major conflict.

Since WWII there have been many localised clashes, but the consequences of greater conflict have been recognised. The stabilising effect of the United States has also been a factor in the latter part of the 20th century.

It is these regional wars that present the greatest threat to peace. We too must be aware that there are a host of minor, and hopefully localised, disturbances that have the potential to break out.

Australia's defence forces face a huge challenge despite our island advantage. Keeping up with the growth of technical warfare will come at a great cost and require considerable political courage to provide the necessary funding. Mobility of units and particularly the development skills will be the prime necessity for the Forces to provide adequate defence.

His answers to a varied range of questions underlined his great depth of knowledge on the topics raised. It was a thought provoking address and one that was much appreciated by the large number in attendance.