In this Legacy Interview, Australian Army veteran Trevor Tonking reflects on his military service and the experiences that shaped his life during and after his time in the Army.

Trevor served as a Lance Corporal with the Infantry, 2 Platoon, 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR) from September 1966 to September 1968. In this conversation he shares memories from his time in service and reflects on the discipline, resilience and strong bonds of mateship formed between soldiers.

He also speaks about the importance of the Camberwell Pompey Elliott RSL, where veterans and members come together to maintain friendships, honour service and support one another within the community. For many veterans, the RSL remains a place where the ANZAC spirit and camaraderie continue long after active service ends.

This interview forms part of the Camberwell Pompey Elliott RSL Legacy Interview Series, preserving the stories of Australian veterans so their experiences, service and perspectives can be remembered by future generations.

• Interviewee: Trevor Tonking
• Rank: Lance Corporal
• Unit: 2 Platoon, 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR)
• Service Period: September 1966 – September 1968
• Recorded: 2025
• Location: Camberwell Pompey Elliott RSL – Melbourne, Australia

About the Legacy Interview Series

The Camberwell Pompey Elliott RSL Legacy Interviews capture the personal stories of veterans and members connected to the RSL community. These conversations preserve firsthand accounts of military service, life after the forces and the friendships that continue to bind veterans together.