Feature Profiles
9 January, 2026
SUMMER READING Our forgotten local hero
No medal, no statue - our forgotten war hero. Colin Cameron, the soldier who could stand beside Jacka and Borella, writes Geoff Arnott
Colin Cameron, the soldier who could stand beside Jacka and Borella, writes Geoff Arnott
WEDDERBURN is the home of Jacka and Borella; two World War One heroes.
In Soldiers’ Park they are now in bronze and stand shoulder to shoulder Winners of the Victoria Cross they are honoured by everyone who visits the park.
But there was another local hero with neither a medal or in bronze at Soldiers’ Park
His name was Sgt Ian Cameron, a commando in World War Two. With his Z Force Unit, they were to sink enemy ships in operation Rimau.
Access to Singapore harbour was by motorised semi-submersible canoes The training team included Ronnie Webb a patriot through and through.
Before reaching the harbour 13 commandos fought for their lives. Fierce battles were fought on the islands with all killed and none survived.
Worthy of a Victoria Cross were Colin Cameron and Gregor Riggs. Knowledge of their heroism against the enemy has only gained some traction. They alone fought an enemy platoon so their comrades could escape capture.
Cameron and Riggs fought on while critically wounded until their last breath.
They were seen by the enemy as the “way of the warrior” who did not fear death. With words spoken of their valour they were buried with dignity and respect.
Operation Rimau was a military disaster with no ships sunk in Singapore harbour. Enemy forces were aware of the commandos well before the harbour attack.
All 23 commandos were either killed in action or executed; many by decapitation.
In 1992 the remains of Cameron and Riggs were taken from that lonely island place. Reburied alongside the other commandos they were now interred in a sacred space
It was the Kranji war cemetery for those who fought for Australia with enormous grace. Sergeant Colin Cameron from Wedderburn and Sub Lieutenant Gregor Riggs from England.