A century after the Battle of Aubers Ridge, the Manly-Lota RSL Hall became the backdrop for a story that connected one family’s past with today. The venue was filled with quiet reflection and warm conversation as community members gathered to hear Paul Dobbyn talk about the book that started with a painting and ended with a powerful family revelation.
The launch of War Spoils opened a conversation about memory, war, and the lasting imprint of both on one Brisbane family. The event took place on 9 May, a date chosen with care. It marks the day Mr Dobbyn’s grandfather survived serious wounds at the Battle of Aubers Ridge in 1915. It’s also the date his uncle was killed in 1944 while flying with the Pathfinder Force during World War II.

An Afternoon of Reflection in Manly
The program began with a tribute to the men and women who served, setting the tone for what was more than just a book launch. Local poet John-Francis Thomas read “Australian Soil,” a piece written to honour Australians buried far from home. As the words settled over the room, Mr Dobbyn shared why that poem in particular struck such a chord for him.

He then spoke about how a forgotten painting from his childhood, found in an old shoebox, sparked the journey that became “War Spoils.” Piece by piece, he traced the stories behind it, diving into letters, photographs, and official war records. The result is a book that ties together the lives of his grandfather, father, and uncle in the shadow of two world wars.
Stories That Belong to All of Us
Those gathered at the hall listened as Mr Dobbyn read his poem “War Spoils” accompanied by a visual presentation handled by his step-granddaughter Abby van Rooyen. Afterward, he took a moment to thank the people who helped him bring the project to life: friends, family, and members of the Manly-Lota RSL community, including hall convenor Peter and Sub-Branch president Harry, whose support helped make the launch possible.
There was space, too, for questions from the audience. Some wanted to know more about the research. Others were simply moved and wanted to say so.
As the afternoon closed, guests shared a cup of tea and conversation. Mr Dobbyn signed books, pausing to speak with neighbours and friends who had come to support him. A portion of proceeds from each book ($5) is being donated to the Manly-Lota RSL Welfare Group to assist local veterans.
What’s Next
Mr Dobbyn is considering a weekend launch for those who couldn’t make it to the weekday event. He’ll also be interviewed on BayFM in the coming weeks to talk more about the book and what it’s meant to reconnect with his family’s past in such a meaningful way.
Published 15-May-2025