The “TS Vindicatrix” was a training ship berthed in a canal at Sharpness, Gloucester at which over 70,000 (Vindi) boys were trained from 1939 to 1966 in the craft of seamanship and catering in the British Merchant Navy. The Vindicatrix being just one of the many sea training schools at that time and mandatory for young men in joining the merchant navy.

THE SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND Branch was formed on the 31st July 2013 at the Palm Beach Currumbin Sports Club. At the inaugural meeting of eight ex Qld Vindicatrix Boys, it was also decided to open the association up to all ex Merchant Mariners, to bolster numbers.

Current membership fees are set at $10 per year and $5 for social members. An AGM to be held each year in August. All financial members have voting rights and able to stand for office.

There will be monthly meetings on the 3rd Wednesday of the month, alternate meetings are social only and venues may change monthly. The social part could be almost anything, from a beach BBQ, to a visit to a museum or a show or just a seat in a lounge with a couple of ales and swing the lamp.

This association will be based in the Gold Coast area. However the meetings will be shared between north and south areas around Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and an occasional foray into northern NSW. All outings will be subject to the demands/requirements of the members.

Our aim is to perpetuate the memory of all merchant seamen who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country and to meet in harmony and geniality regularly to foster this aim.