“For King and Country” Residents and those born on the New South Wales Central Coast in the

Australian Imperial Forces during World War One

Part One Introduction

and Surnames Absalom to Curtis

Researched and Compiled by Dr Richard G. Van Wirdum

For Gosford City Library Service

2014

Gosford City Council gratefully acknowledges

the voluntary effort of

Dr Richard G. Van Wirdum

in researching and compiling this resource

Content advisory: This file may potentially contain disturbing accounts of service-related injury and death, disease and family grief. Adult supervision is recommended for children

using these resources. Individual files should be viewed within the context

provided by wider research on service conditions in the 1st AIF and that period of

Australian history.

This resource is presented by

Gosford City Council for research purposes only.

© Gosford City Council, 2015

Those who died in service are marked as;

* Killed in Action

^ Died of Wounds

# Died of Illness

It is the soldier, not the Minister, who has given us freedom of religion.

It is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the soldier, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the soldier, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote.

It is the soldier who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag and whose coffin is

draped by the flag, who allows the protester to burn the flag.

Charles M. Province.

i

Acknowledgements A source of information given in this research project came from The Gosford Times,

a local paper during the war years that gave the names and background of those

who joined to go to war. These papers are available on microfilm at the Local History

section of the Gosford City Council Library. For that I thank Mr Geoff Potter, Local

Studies Officer of the library, and a very knowledgeable person on the local history

scene. I have so far never found a question on local history that Geoff did not have a

ready answer for. None of this project could be done without his assistance and

knowledge.

Of course Geoff must rely on the staff of the library to assist him in his work and as

such they assisted me whenever it was needed, so to them I say thank you for all the

help they have given me in this and other research projects that I have done. Then

there are the other volunteers that Geoff relies on. In particular I would like to

express my thanks to Bennie Campbell, Vivian Tranter and Sue Dibley whose

project on the death of those residents of the Central Coast in World War I, which will

be available on the Gosford Library website on completion and for the information

that I incorporated into my project.

This project is not complete because of the fact that in the chauvinistic world that

existed at the time there were no mention of the names of the women such as

nursing staff and sisters that went to war to perform their Nightingale duties. Further

research is required to determine who these fine ladies were that travelled to the

battlefront to care and bring comfort to the wounded and in many cases to be with

them when they died. It is possible that residents and ex-residents may have

travelled to other states because they were unable to enlist in N.S.W. as shown in

the introduction to this project that some went to England and enlisted in the British

Army.

Those who died in service are marked as;

* Killed in Action

^ Died of wounds

# Died of Illness

ii

Introduction In August, 2014 Australians will celebrate the centenary of World War I. On Anzac

Day, April 25, 2015 will be a hundred years since the landing at Gallipoli. Thousands

of residents will be at war memorials up and down the Central Coast being a part of

the memorial services. Many will participate for the first time. As they look on the

memorial they will see the names of those who paid the supreme sacrifice for their

King and Country. The two questions that should be asked are what about the

thousands of men and boys who volunteered to go to war and survived to come

home again? And who were these men and boys that did so?

In his book Every Mothers Son by Michael Rooksberry, he wrote that Australia with a

then population of five million people some 330,000, one third of all males aged 18 to

44 enlisted to go to World War I. He wrote that nearly seventy per cent of those

enlisted men were either killed or wounded. In his book he recorded the names of

nearly four hundred men and boys from the Central Coast who paid the supreme

sacrifice in the service of their country.1 Those names are included here, but the

objective of this research was to track down all those from the Central Coast who

served in the military for their King and country in that war.

However, research has shown that some of the names that appear on the memorials

on the Central Coast show names of those killed or died of wounds or from illness

were not from the Central Coast. Their parents or family wanted them to appear on

the memorials in their district so they could pay homage to their memory. In The

Gosford Times there are names mentioned as having served in the war and were

sons of local residents. At the present time due to the time that has passed it would

be extremely difficult to determine if they had resided on the Central Coast except for

those whose names are recorded in army records as being born or give an address

on the Central Coast, which the vast majority do.

The purpose of this project was to record not just their military records as that can be

found in the National Archives in Canberra, but rather who they were as a person,

their family and their connection to their local community. The information that is

1 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, Every Mothers Son, Tracing the History of Those from the Central Coast Who Answered Their Country’s Call and the Tributes Created In Their Memory, Gosford City Library

iii

used in this project is found in attestation papers which give their name, service

number, unit, age, marital status, occupation, next of kin and previous military

service. Embarkation rolls which gives the name of the ship they left Sydney or

elsewhere and the date and Red Cross wounded and missing files which records

those who were wounded and how they sustained their injuries or illnesses and

those who were killed in action and how they were killed. They also record those

who were prisoners of war and those repatriated back to Australia. While we must

always recognise the deeds and pay homage to those who died in wars, we must

also recognise and pay homage to those who went and survive the horrors of war

and returned home, before their names are forgotten by us and disappear for ever in

the pages of history.

Bryce Courtenay in his introduction to the book An Anzac’s Story wrote that when

Britain declared war on Germany the enthusiasm for war among the population of

Australia was overwhelming. Men and boys rushed to get to the recruiting booths.

He wrote that shearers in distant outback sheds put down their shears, washed their

arms almost up to the elbows, rolled up their swags and headed for the nearest

recruiting station. Butcher boys in the cities and the small towns wrapped up their

last parcels of mutton chops, made change from a shilling, removed their aprons and

headed in the same direction. Drapers rolled up their tape measures and headed for

the footpaths. Bank clerks completed their ledgers, carefully blotted the ink and

reached for their jackets. Boot-makers did a roaring trade adding half an inch to the

heels of young men’s boot because they fell short of the five feet six inches minimum

height required by the army.2

These men and boys had gone off to what would become the worst tragedy in this

country’s history and they did so in a curious way. There was a rush to enlist and this

meant that not only Australia’s promise of providing 20,000 men to the British

Government made before the war, but surpassed it. The enlistment rate was

averaging 8,000 per months for the first four months of 1915. With the Gallipoli

campaign the Australian Government imposed a censorship on the release of

matters pertaining to Gallipoli. This meant that the Australian newspapers in the

2 Kyle Roy, 2003, An Anzac’s Story, Penguin Group (Australia)

iv

weeks after the landing made Gallipoli sound more like an adventure and so

enlistment soared. In July and August when Gallipoli was the dominant story in the

press, enlistment rose to 36,575 and 25,714 respectively. By the time the battle of

Pozieres opened up and the causality lists were printed in the newspapers,

enlistment had dropped around 6,000 a month.3

The question that is needed here is the reason or reasons for this enthusiasm to

enlist and go to war. One of these reasons was that the first Anzac’s quickly won the

nickname of six-bob-a-day-tourist. At this period in time two pounds two shillings a

week, plus food, lodgings and clothing, was no small attraction. In fact it was two

shillings a day higher than the basic wage. Times were hard on the land and many of

the men volunteering saw the army as a way out from rural unemployment and

consequent subsistence. As their nickname suggested, a life in the Australian

Imperial Force (A. I. F.) also offered a chance to see a bit of the world.4

Another reason given for enlisting was that many were more scared of missing out

on the war than fighting in it. Most thought the British Empire would destroy the

German/Austrian Empire within six months. People lined the streets to cheer the

volunteers parading through the capital streets. Thousands of Union Jacks fluttered

among the crowd at Federal Parliament House in Melbourne. Volunteers received

civic send-offs in country towns. It was as if Australia had been waiting for the

opportunity to present itself on the world stage. The Sydney Morning Herald declared

that “it was our baptism of fire.”5

Another reason was of cause patriotism. Australians saw England as their spiritual

home and regarded themselves as the sons and daughters of England and were

willing to die for a King they had never seen in person and a country that they had

never visited.6 Germans living in Australia were spat upon and locked up. The St.

3 Carlyon, Les. 2008, The Great War, Pan Macmillian Pty Ltd, Market St, Sydney 4 Williams, John F., 2003, German Anzacs, First World War, University of New South Wales Press Ltd, Sydney 5 Carlyon Patrick, 2003, The Gallipoli Story, Penguin Group (Australia) 6 Kyle Roy, 2003, An Anzac’s Story, Penguin Group (Australia)

v

Kilda Football Club, in Melbourne changed its colours when it was noticed they

matched those of the Imperial German flag.7

The desire to join was very strong among those who enlisted. Many who were

rejected in the capital cities of one State made the long journey to another so he

could enlist. One young man was refused four times in Melbourne, went to Sydney

and was accepted. Another man rode 460 miles and travelled still further by rail in

order to join the Australian Light Horse in Adelaide. On finding the ranks full he

sailed to Tasmania and finally enlisted in Sydney. Many who failed in Australia

travelled to England and enlisted in British Regiments. Those who during the first few

days crowded the recruiting stations came mostly from the big cities. But within the

first year many farming districts had been deserted by almost all their young men. In

some cases they locked their houses and left their paddocks untended during the

war.8

Much has been written about the slovenly attitude to military discipline by the

Australian soldier and calling their officers by their first name. These soldiers were

citizen soldiers and “parade bashers” they were not. They were trained as quickly as

possible to fight and their attitude was to treat a person by who they were and not

what they were or what title they had.

Peace was not signed between Germany and the Allies until 1919 and many soldiers

wanted to go home to their families and farms and so they deserted. Military

authorities after peace was signed informed police that no charges would be brought

against those who deserted. So all the soldiers returned to their civilian lives in the

belief that they had fought the Great War, the war to end all wars and that man

would forever more live peacefully with one another.

These were the men and boys who went to war from the N.S.W. Central Coast and

these were their names.

7 Ibid 8 Bean, C. E. W., 1935, Story Of Anzac, From the outbreak of war to the end of the first phase of the Gallipoli campaign, May 4, 1915, 4th Edition, Angus & Robinson, Sydney

vi

Absalom, David John Private, No. 3057 1st Pioneers Battalion 7th Reinforcements Local connection: Catherine Hill Bay, NSW Private Absalom was from Catherine Hill Bay. He was a 35 year old married Miner

when he enlisted on May 27, 1916. His next of kin was his wife Jane Ann Absalom of

Catherine Hill Bay. He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A30 “Borda” on October 17,

1916. 1 He returned to Australia on October 17, 1916. He died on February 24,

1934.2

Acland, Elson Robert* Private, No.6216 D Company 4th Battalion 20th Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW According to Michael Rooksberry’s book Every Mothers’ Son, Private Acland is

recorded as living in Gosford.3 He was a Carpenter by trade and was single. He was

born in Katoomba, NSW.4 He enlisted on January 25, 1916 at Liverpool in Sydney5

and was 21 years of age at embarkation from Sydney on board HMAT A14

“Euripides” on September 9, 1916.6 His next of kin was his father Alfred Albert

Acland, a railway ganger of Hill St in Gosford. Private Acland had previous military

experience when he served for seven years in the senior cadets (compulsory training

scheme) and in the 41st Infantry, Citizen Military Forces (C.M.F.). He enlisted on

January 25, 1916. He was killed in a trench by shell fire on May 6, 1917 at Bullecourt

in France.7/8 He has no grave and his name is recorded at the Australian National

Memorial, Villers-Bretonneux in France

1 National Archives, 2013, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records 2 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 3 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, op cit.. 4 National Archives, 2014 5 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 6 Gosford Library, 2013, Local History, www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/library/local_history 7 Ibid 8 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, May, 31. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

1

Acland, Roy Private, No.96258 Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Roy Acland was a 20 year old single Draper when he enlisted on November

4, 1918. He was one of the last to enlist and was discharged before leaving

Australia. His next of kin was his father Alfred Albert Acland of Hill St in Gosford. He

previously served as a 1st Lieutenant of cadets.9

Adams, Gilbert Warren Private, No.3561, 53rd Battalion, 11th Reinforcements Local connection: Empire Bay, NSW Private Adams was 21 years of age and was born at Norfolk Island. He was a

Farmer from Empire Bay when he enlisted on July 25, 1915. His next of kin was his

father John Adams of Norfolk Island. He embarked on November 2, 1915 on HMAT

A14 “Euripides. On August 2, 1919, he was discharged as being medically unfit

suffering from epilepsy.10

Adams, Reginald John Private, No.6459 Depot Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Adams was a 26 year old single, Labourer from Wyong when he enlisted on

May 22, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Sarah Adams of Luddenham. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on October 7, 1916.11 He

returned home from the war on April 19, 1919.12

9 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 10 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 11 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 12 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

2

Aggett, Albert Harold Private, 2 MD Local connections: Gosford and Woy Woy, NSW Private Aggett was born at Gosford and lived at Woy Woy. He was 21 years old and

a clerk when he enlisted on 9 September, 1914. His next of kin was his mother Clara

Blanche Aggett of “Louisville” in Woy Woy. He was discharged as medically unfit on

October 3, 1915.

Aggett, Reginald Joseph Pretoria Private, No.7681 34th Battalion Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Aggett was born in Gosford. He was an 18 year old Apprentice Telephone

Mechanic when he enlisted on August 1, 1917. His next of kin was his mother Ethel

Aggett of 85 Davidville Rd at Marrickville in Sydney. He embarked from Melbourne

on board HMAT A71 “Nestor” on February 28, 1918.13 He returned to Sydney on

September 15 1918.14

Agst, David Arno Private, No.2781 13th Battalion Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Agst was a 21 year old Train Shunter for the Department of Railways when

he enlisted on July 25, 1915. His next of kin was his father Carl Frederick Agst of

Wentworthville in Sydney (formerly of Ourimbah). He previously served as Sergeant

Cadet in the school cadets. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8

“Argyllshire on September 30, 1915.15 He returned to Australia on March 31, 1919.16

13 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 14 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit 15National Archives, 2013, op cit.. 16 Australian Imperial Force, 2014 op cit

3

Akers, Charles Alfred* Lance-Corporal, No.2516 35th Battalion, 5th Reinforcements Local connection: Kulnura, NSW Lance-Corporal Akers was from Kulnura. He was a 24 year old single Orchardist

when he enlisted on July 3, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Mary Ellen

Akers of Kulnura. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A11 “Ascanius” on

October 25, 1916. Lance-Corporal Akers was killed as he was leaving Messines to

go up to Passchendaele, France. He was in a shell hole at the time when at about 4

o’clock on the morning of October 13, 1917 he was killed instantly by a shell

explosion.17

The Gosford Times of November 29, 1917 reported that Private Akers who was from

Kulnura was missing.18 Private Akers recently reported as missing was officially

reported to have been killed in action by a shell in France. He was the only son of

Mrs Akers of Kulnura.19 His cousins 3002 Private Joseph AKERS, 7th Battalion was

killed in action on 4 October 1917; 3679 Corporal Mark AKERS, 46th Battalion was

killed in action, 11 June 1917.

Akers, Henry Herbert Private, originally No. 483, 2nd Battalion, E company, later No.36, 36th Battalion Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Akers originally enlisted in Sydney on 24 August, 1914. He embarked on

troop transport A23 “Suffolk” Private Akers was aged 20 years and 9 months on his

first enlistment. His mother Susan Akers of the Royal Hotel at Ourimbah was listed

as his next of kin. Henry received a bullet wound while serving with the 2nd battalion

at Gallipoli, and commenced return to Australia on the “Hororata” once declared

medically unfit.

17 Gosford Library, 2013, Local History, www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/library/local_history 18 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 29. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 19 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, March, 14. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

4

On 21 May 1915, The Gosford Times recorded that Mrs Akers received a telegram

on Wednesday from the Secretary of Defence disclosing the sad news that her son,

Private H. H. Akers had been wounded in action at the Dardanelles.20

His convalescence in Australia was short. Private Akers was a 22 year old Motor

Driver when he reenlisted March 8, 1916. His next of kin on his second enlistment

form was given as his father Thomas Akers of the Royal Hotel in Ourimbah. He

embarked from Sydney on May 13, 1916 on board HMAT A72 “Beltana”.21

In another article it was recorded that Herb Akers, who had returned to the front and

was, then in England did not expect to be sent to the firing line till after Christmas.22

Later in a letter to his father he mentioned that he was now attached to a Mortar

Battery and was getting all round experience.23 He returned to Australia on

December 9, 1918.24

Akhurst, Amos Ambrose Private, No.124 2nd Battalion, Tropical Unit. Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Akhurst was born at Wyong. He was a 19 year old Timber Carrier when he

enlisted on June 10, 1916. His next of kin was his father Frederick Joseph Akhurst of

Wyong. He previously served in the cadets for five years. He embarked from Sydney

on board SS “Eastern” on November 28, 1914.25

The Gosford Times of June 13, 1918 recorded that Private Akhurst resided in

Wyong. He was entertained by the members of the Town Band at a Euchre Party

and Social in the Literary Institute on Wednesday evening the previous week. There

20 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, May, 21. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 21 National Archives, 2013, op cit.. 22 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, September, 29. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 23 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 9. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 24 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 25 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

5

was a large attendance of townspeople and an enjoyable evening passed all too

rapidly. After the euchre tournament, at which Miss H. Wilson and Mr Ray were the

respective winners of the lady’s and gentlemen’s prizes, Mr Lloyd-Jones, on behalf

of the Recruiting Association, presented Private Akhurst with a silver matchbox and

in addition received from his fellow members of the Band a wristlet watch with the

presentation being made by Mr Gersh Baker. He responded suitably. His brief

speech was received with hilarity by the good nature of the audience.26 Records do

not show what happened to him, or when he returned to Australia. He died on

February 9, 1964.27 His death certificate was recorded at Hornsby, NSW.28

Alce, William Henry Private, No.8177 7th Field Company Engineers Local connection: Wisemans Ferry, NSW Private Alce was born at Wiseman’s Ferry. He was a 22 year old single Blacksmith

when he enlisted on January 20, 1916. His next of kin was his father Henry Alce of

Reservoir St at Pymble in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40

“Ceramic” on April 14, 1916.29 He returned to Australia on May 22, 1919.30

Alderton, Charles Private, No.1797 Camel Corps Local connection: Woy Woy, NSW Private Alderton was born at Woy Woy. He was an 18 year old Hammer Driver when

he enlisted on November 9, 1916. His next of kin was his father George Alderton of

Woy Woy. He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A7 “Medic” on December 12,

1916.31 He embarked for return to Australia on HT “Essex” June 15, 1919.32

26 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, June, 13. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 27 State records NSW, Probate packet index http://search.records.nsw.gov.au/items/1109060 28 NSW BDM index http://www.bdm.nsw.gov.au/bdm_fh.html 29 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 30 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit 31 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 32 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit

6

Alderton, Gilbert Acting Sergeant, No.4354 19th Battalion 11th Reinforcements Local Connection: Windsor, NSW Acting Sergeant Alderton was a 21 year old single, Civil Service Messenger from

Dight Street at Windsor when he enlisted on December 1, 1915. His next of kin was

his father J. Alderton of Dight St, Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A71 “Nestor” on April 9, 1916. He was promoted to Sergeant and returned to

Australia on July 23, 1918.33

Alderton, James Austin Private, No.2596 2nd Australian Remount Unit 3rd Reinforcement Local connection: Richmond, NSW Private Alderton was a 26 year old single Carpenter of West Market Street in

Richmond when he enlisted on October 24, 1915. His next of kin was his father

James Alderton of West Market St in Richmond. He embarked from Sydney on

board RMS “Osterley” on January 15, 1916 He was promoted to the rank of Corporal

and returned to Australia on August 3, 1919. He died aged 76 on December 1, 1964

and was cremated at Northern Suburbs Crematorium in Sydney.34

Aldrich, Victor Alexander Private, No.9440 12th Field Ambulance Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Aldrich was born at Wyong. He was a 23 year old single Clerk when he

enlisted on September 29, 1915 in Perth, Western Australia. His next of kin was his

father Francis Aldrich of the Fisheries Department in Bridge St in Sydney. He

embarked from Fremantle on HMAT 38 “Ulysses” on March 1, 1916. 35 He returned

to Australia on June 12, 1919.36

33 Ibid 34 Ibid 35 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 36 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit

7

Alexander, Alexander Norman* Signalman, No.6946 2nd Battalion, 23rd Reinforcement Local connection: Wyee, NSW Signalman Alexander was working for the railways at Wyee at the time of his

enlistment.37 He was a 26 year old Fettler on the railways when he enlisted on July

24, 1916. He embarked on November 9, 1916 on HMAT “Benalla” and was the son

of George and Ellen Alexander of Hurstville NSW.38

The Gosford Times of September 8, 1916 recorded that the residents of Wyee

turned out in force on Saturday night for the purpose of doing honour and making a

presentation to Alexander who enlisted for the front and would soon be leaving

shortly for the firing line. The send off was in the form of a social evening at the late

residence of Mr Thornthwaite when dancing was indulged until 12 o’clock,

refreshments being served in the meantime. During the night Signalman Alexander

was presented with a silver wristlet watch suitably inscribed. The presentation was

made by Mr J. Gavenlock an old resident of Wyee. Prior to enlisting Alexander was

employed in the Permanent Way Branch of the Railway Department at Wyee and

judging by the attendance and spirit shown he carried with him all the good wishes of

all.39

It was reported that Private Alexander, the son of the Wyong Postmaster had been

gassed and this being the third time resulted in him being put out of action.40

Signaller Alexander was killed on the morning of April 17, 1918 at Petit section at

Bois near Hazebrouk. At about 7 a.m. he was standing in the doorway of a farm

house which at the time was Company Headquarters. He had been killed instantly by

a shell explosion which had landed about 40 yards away. Due to the heavy shelling

his body had to remain till night time when a stretcher was brought to carry the body

37 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, op cit.. 38 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 39 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, September, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 40 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, June, 6. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

8

away.41 No known grave has been identified for Alexander. His name is engraved on

the Villers-Bretonneaux memorial in France42

Aley, Albert Sydney^ Private, No.3012 33rd Battalion 7th Reinforcements Local connection: Dora Creek, NSW Private Aley was a 22 year old single Tailor residing at Dora Creek when he enlisted

on December 14, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Ellen Aley of Mary St at

Hunters Hill in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A68 “Anchises”

on January 24, 1917. He died of wounds on October 9, 1917. He is buried in

Lussenthoek Military Cemetery in Belgium.43

Allan, James Private, No.1687 7th Australian Light Horse, 13th Reinforcement Local connections: Terrigal, NSW Private Allan was born in Newcastle.44 He was a 20 year old single Labourer when

he enlisted on November 1, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Maud Mary Allan of

Terrigal. He resided with his mother. He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A60

“Aeneas” December 20, 1915. He returned to Australia on May 1, 1919.45

Allen, Frederick James # Mentioned in Despatches Private, No.4728 1st Battalion 15th Reinforcement Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Allen was born in London, England. He was a 25 year old single, Engine

Driver working for the NSW Railways and lived at the Royal Hotel in Gosford when

41 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 42 Commonwealth War Graves search, http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1457386/ALEXANDER,%20ALEXANDER%20NORMAN 43 Commonwealth War Graves search, http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/430804/ALEY,%20ALBERT%20SYDNEY 44 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 45 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit

9

he enlisted on August 24, 1915. His next of kin was his father J. Allen of Chaplin Rd

at Willesden Green in London, England.

He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A15 “Star of England” on March 8, 1916.

He was taken prisoner on July 19, 1916 by the Germans and was placed in a camp

at Munster in Germany (Westphalia), and escaped on September 11, 1918 and

reached Holland on 17th of the same month, finally reaching England October 5,

1918. He was awarded a Mentioned in Despatches (MID) “For gallant conduct and

determination displayed in escaping, or attempting to escape, from captivity.”

Awarded and promulgated “London Gazette” No. 31759 on January 30, 1920 and

the “Commonwealth Gazette” No. 38 on April 29, 1920. He contacted influenza and

bronchial pneumonia on October 19, 1918, and died at the Town Hall Hospital at

Torquay in Exeter, England on October 26, 1918.46 Frederick is buried in Torquay

Cemetery, Devon, with 134 other WW1 graves.47

Mr G. Bentley, of The Gosford Times staff received a post card from Private Allen

(who prior to enlistment was employed as a cleaner at the Gosford railway station)

which shows that he was a prisoner of war in Germany. Fred stated that he was in

the best of health and jogging along as usual. He sent his kindest regards.48

The Gosford Times of October 17, 1918 recorded that Private Allen, who was a

prisoner of war in Germany, escaped to London. He was captured at Fleurbaix in

July, 1916 and had worked long hours like a slave in the timber mills at Munster and

was also underfed. When making his escape he tramped with an Englishman and a

Canadian for six months in the soaking rain for one hundred miles towards Holland.

During the last few days they were without food and had several close shaves, but

avoided capture. Private Allen said that the Boches used to boast what they would

do to England after their victory. They were now most depressed and resented any

reference to the war, but still believed their submarines were starving England.49

46 Australian War Memorial, 2014, op cit. 47 Commonwealth War Graves Search: http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/350690/ALLEN,%20FREDERICK%20JAMES 48 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November,, 2. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 49 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, October 17, Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

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Allen, Percy Bartholomew^ Private, No.1908 1st Battalion 5th Reinforcements Local connection: Brooklyn, NSW Private Allen was born at Carlingford, NSW. At his time of enlistment he was said to

be from Brooklyn, Hawkesbury River. He was a 31 year old single, Labourer when

he enlisted on January 27, 1915. His next of kin was his father, Bartholomew Allen of

18 City Markets in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A 40

“Ceramic” on June 25, 1915. On August 6, 1915 he suffered a gunshot wound to the

head on Gallipoli and on October 7-8 he was admitted and transferred to base. He

died of wounds on August 11, 1915 on board the hospital ship “Dunluce Castle” and

was buried at sea between Anzac Cove and Malta.50

Allen, William Charles Private, No.5031 13th Battalion 16th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Allen was a 30 year old single, Labourer of Church Street, Windsor when he

enlisted on December 28, 1915. His next of kin was his father W. J. Allen of Church

St at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A16 “Star of Victoria” on

March 31, 1916. He returned to Australia on June 19, 1919.51

Allison, Frank Seaforth# Private, No.2813 1st Pioneer Battalion 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Richmond, NSW Private Allison was a 20 year old single, Engineer of Windsor Street, Richmond

when he enlisted on July 19, 1916. His next of kin was his father Joseph William

Allison and his mother was Jane Ann Allison of Windsor St in Richmond. He

previously served with the cadets for five years and was currently at the time with

41st Infantry, Citizens Military Forces. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT

A30 “Borda” on October 17, 1916. He died on October 5, 1918 from bronchial

50 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 51 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

11

pneumonia and was buried at the Mont Huon Military Cemetery at Le Treport in

France.52

Allison, Leslie Grant Sapper, No.20233 Field Company Engineers, September 1917 Reinforcements Local connection: Richmond, NSW Sapper Allison was a 19 year old Electrical Fitter from Richmond when he enlisted

on August 13, 1917. His next of kin was his father Joseph William Allison of Windsor

St in Richmond. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A71 “Nestor” on

November 21, 1917. He returned to Australia on July 5, 1919.53

Amourous, Leonard Private, No.94 3rd Battalion A Company Local connection: Catherine Hill Bay, NSW Private Amourous was a 35 year old married Engine Driver residing at Catherine Hill

Bay when he enlisted on August 17, 1914. His next of kin was his wife Mary Agnes

Amourous of Catherine Hill Bay. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A14

“Euripides” on October 19, 1914. He received a gunshot wound to the shoulder at

the Dardanelles. He returned to Australia on March 17, 1916.54

Anderson, Alick Tonkin 2nd Lieutenant, 3rd Battalion 23rd Reinforcements Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Lieutenant Anderson was from Ourimbah and served throughout the Boer War.55 He

was born on August 10, 1881 and was a 34 year old married Farmer when he

enlisted on May 31, 1916. His next of kin was his wife Mrs S. E. Anderson of

52 Ibid 53 Ibid 54 Ibid 55 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 9. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

12

Ourimbah. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on October

31, 1917. He returned to Australia on October 18, 1919.56

Anderson, Harold John Private, No.6211 6th Battalion 20th Reinforcements Local connection: Yarramalong, NSW Private Anderson was an 18 year old single Clerk when he enlisted on May 29,

1916. His next of kin was his mother Mrs J. Anderson of Trawalla in Victoria. He

embarked from Melbourne on board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on September 11, 1916.

He returned to Australia on September 8, 1919.

The Gosford Times of May 3, 1917 reported that Private Anderson was the eldest

son of Yarramalong’s teacher when he enlisted.57 The Gosford Times of June 14,

1917 further reported that a send-off to Private Anderson took place on Friday night

in Yarramalong and was well attended. He was presented with a wristlet watch.58

Anderson, Harold Private, New Zealand Forces Local connection: Gosford, NSW The Gosford Times of September 6, 1917 reported that Mr Neil Anderson received

word that his only son died at sea on July 28, 1917. The deceased was the eldest of

the family and enlisted with the New Zealand forces from Auckland. He was 38 years

of age and was born at Sydney. Spending his boyhood days in Gosford, Private

Anderson went to West Australia in the gold boom days and stayed there for five

years. Returning home he subsequently decided to go to New Zealand where he

remained for about fourteen years prior to enlisting. His respected father had been a

resident of Gosford for forty-one years.59

56 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 57 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, May, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 58 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, June, 14. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 59 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, September, 6. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

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Anderson, Lawrence Albert Private, No.3719 Pioneers Local connection: Gosford, NSW. Private Anderson was born at Gosford. He was a 31 year old single, Iron Moulder

when he enlisted on June 2, 1917. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Anderson of

21 Commonwealth St in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A28

“Miltiades” on August 2, 1917.60 He returned to Australia on January 10, 1918.61

Anderson, William Andrew* Private, No.701 36th Battalion, C Company Local connection: Erina, NSW. Private Anderson was from Erina.62 He was a 37 year old married Horse Driver when

he enlisted on January 30, 1916. His next of kin was his wife Ellen M. Anderson of

“Edith” in Victoria Parade at Granville in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A72 “Beltana” on May 13, 1916. On June 14, 1917, he suffered a

gunshot wound to his right leg in Belgium. On August 16, 1917, he re-joined his

Battalion. On October 13, 1917 he was reported as missing in action in Belgium. He

was recorded as being killed in action on October 12, 1917. His name is recorded on

Menin Gate in Belgium. Private Anderson was at Passchendaele at about 9.30 a.m.,

when he and some others took shelter in a German shell hole when a shell landed in

the hole. Another man went over to see if there was any wounded but he reported

that there were no bodies to be seen.63

The Gosford Times of April 4, 1918 recorded that: during the week Mrs J. J. Parry of

Erina received word that her brother, Private Will Anderson of the 36th Battalion had

been killed in action. He was reported missing on October 12, 1917. Private

Anderson left Sydney on May 13, 1916 with Carmichael’s Battalion. He left a wife

and four little children.64

60 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 61 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 62 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, op cit. 63 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 64 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, April, 4. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

14

The Gosford Times of October 18, 1917 reported that: A cable was received on the

Saturday announcing that Private Anderson from Gosford had been killed in action in

France. A fine manly young fellow and everyone liked him.65 In the same issue it was

stated that he was 37 years and four months old when he enlisted.66 It was later

corrected that he had not been killed on September 3, 1917. Letters had just been

received from him dated from September 11-1567 and his memorial photo was on

view in a local shop window for months.68 The date of his death officially is given as

October 12, 1917.

Anderson, William Howard* Private, No.4548 1st Battalion 14th Reinforcements Local connection: Richmond, NSW Private Anderson was a 21 year old single, Railway Employee from Richmond, NSW

when he enlisted on August 8, 1915. His next of kin was his father c/o Police Station

at Gundagai in New South Wales. He embarked from Sydney on board RMS

“Osterley” on January 15, 1916. He was killed in action on August 9, 1916 He was

killed by a shell instantly late at night when he and others had come out into the

reserve trenches when a shell landed and killed him and four others who were buried

by the shell. He was buried at Pozieres British Cemetery at Ovillers-La-Boisselle in

France.69

65 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, October, 18. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 66 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 67 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, December, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 68 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, May, 23. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 69 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

15

Anderson, William John Private, No.546 4th Machine Gun Company 9th Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Anderson was from Gosford. He was a 27 year old single Labourer when he

enlisted on August 28, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mary Anderson of

Gosford. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A67 “Orsova” on December 6,

1916. He served on the Western Front. He returned to Australian on June 15,

1919.70

The Gosford Times of February 7, 1917 recorded that he was incorrectly reported as

having been killed in action some months earlier wrote to Mr Jack May saying, “I

have met some of the Gosford boys including, Ern White, Jack Gibson, Harry

Williams, J. Edwards and your own boy Harold.”71

Angelo, Thomas Robert Nicholas Private, No.1889 19th Battalion 3rd Reinforcements Local connection: Brooklyn, NSW Private Angelo was a 22 year old Electrical Mechanic c/o of the Brooklyn Post Office

at Hawkesbury River when he enlisted on June 25, 1915. His next of kin was his

mother R. Angelo of the Brooklyn Post Office at Hawkesbury River. He embarked

from Sydney on board HMAT A54 “Runic” on August 9, 1915. He returned to

Australia on June 30, 1918.72

Anson, Henry (Distinguished Conduct Medal & Croix de Guerre (Belgium)) Private, No.1701 3rd Battalion 4th Reinforcements Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Anson was a 22 year old single, Bushman when he enlisted on January 4,

1915. His next of kin is unknown. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A9

70 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 71 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, February, 7. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 72 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

16

“Shropshire” on March 17, 1915.73 Sergeant Anson was from Ourimbah. It was

reported that he had been seriously wounded for the third time and was in one of the

soldier’s hospital.74 He was admitted to 3rd Light Horse Field Ambulance, Gallipoli,

June 30, 1915; transferred to Base, July 7, 1915; to St Andrew’s Hospital, Malta, July

14, 1915; to All Saints Convalescent Camp, Malta, July 31, 1915 with enteric fever

then to the Convalescent Camp at Fort Chambray in Malta on October 28, 1915; and

was discharged to duty on November 2, 1915. He disembarked from Alexandria on

December 4, 1915.

He was admitted to No 2 General Hospital at Ghezireh in Egypt on December 23,

1915 with heart strain then transferred to the Convalescent Camp at Ras el Tin on

January 15, 1916 then discharged to duty on January 21, 1916. He was transferred

to 55th Battalion at Tel el Kebir on February 13, 1916. Detached to School of

Instruction at Zeitoun on April 1, 1916; re-joined his Battalion on April 12, 1916.

Admitted to 14th Field Ambulance at Ferry Post on May 22 1916 with scarlet fever

then transferred the same to day to Australian Casualty Clearing Station. Henry Re-

joined his unit on May 27, 1916 and was promoted to Corporal, May 31, 1916.

Embarked Alexandria to join the British Expeditionary Force, June 19, 1916;

disembarked Marseilles, France, June 29, 1916. Promoted to Sergeant, July 24,

1916. On leave to England, September 27, 1916; re-joined unit from leave, October

2, 1916 .Admitted to 1/1 South Midland Casualty Clearing Station, March 16, 1917

(pleurisy); transferred to 6th General Hospital, Rouen, March 20, 1917; to England,

March 30, 1917, and admitted to 5th Southern General Hospital, Plymouth, March

31, 1917. He was discharged on furlough, May 7, 1917, to report to No 4 Command

Depot, Wareham, May 22, 1917. Henry re-joined his unit in the field, July 24, 1917.

Admitted to 14th Field Ambulance, September 9, 1917 (pyrexia unknown origin);

discharged to unit, September 11,1917; re-joined unit, September 12, 1917.

Promoted Company Sergeant Major, November 30, 1917. On leave, March 11,

1918; re-joined unit from leave, April 4, 1918.

He was awarded for the Distinguish Conduct medal on December 21, 1917 for:

73 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 74 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, May, 3.. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

17

gallantry and devotion to duty during the period 25 February to 16 September 1918. In February and March in the Wyschaete sector, he patrolled "No Man's Land" and on two occasions defeated enemy reconnoitring patrols. It was owing to the information gained by him that the enemy raid on our lines on 21 March was so easily repulsed with heavy losses to the enemy. Again, on the Villers Bretonneux plateau, in April and May, he obtained most valuable information. His success on all occasions has been due to his excellent leadership and courage under heavy fire. Commonwealth Gazette No. 135, December 11, 1919.

Marched out for return to Australia, December 28, 1918; marched into No 4

Command Depot, Wareham, January 3, 1919. Commenced return to Australia from

Devonport on board HMT Armagh, April 5, 1919; disembarked, Sydney, May 20,

1919; discharged, Sydney, July 19, 1919. Date of death August 3, 1963 Gladstone

Cemetery, Queensland [Headstone incorrectly states awarded 3 Bars to DCM].75

Anson, John. Mentioned in despatches. Military Medal Private, No.2517 34th Battalion 5th Reinforcements Local connection: Mandalong, NSW Private Anson was a 25 year old single, Labourer when he enlisted on September

27, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Maggie Anson of Mandalong via Morisset.

He embarked from Sydney on board SS “Napier” on November 17, 1916.76 He was

awarded the Military Medal (MM) for as cited:

During the attack on Polygon Wood on 20th September, 1917, Pte. ANSON while carrying out his duties as runner displayed conspicuous gallantry. During the early stages of the advance it was necessary to send important despatches forward to Battalion Headquarters. Although a very heavy enemy barrage was being put down to the rear of Battalion Headquarters, Pte. ANSON immediately volunteered and took the despatch forward, on returning later, although exhausted, Pte. ANSON volunteered to carry a second message through the barrage. He did very valuable work throughout the operation.

75 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 76 National Archives, 2013, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records

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Commonwealth Gazette No. 31, March 7, 1918. He served on the Western Front

and returned to Australia on March 10, 1918.77

In The Gosford Times of November 9, 1916 it was reported that Private Anson was

from Mandalong and at a gathering of residents to wish God speed to Jack who was

to shortly leave for the front; an advantage was taken of the occasion to present him

with a wristlet watch. At the conclusion of an appropriate speech by Mr P. Kelly, the

presentation was made by Miss Chapman. Private Anson was the younger son of Mr

T. Anson of Mandalong. The other son was already in the firing line.78

Archibald, Alexander Private, No. 3452 14th Machine Gun Battalion Local connections: Wamberal and Erina, NSW Private Archibald was born at Wamberal79 and lived at Erina.80 He was a 22 year

old single Labourer when he enlisted on October 19, 1915. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A35 “Berrima” on December 12, 1915.81 His brothers were

George and William Archibald. Private Archibald, son of Mr and Mrs William

Archibald was wounded in action.82 His mother received a cable stating that her son

Private Archibald had contacted trench fever.83 He served in Egypt and the Western

Front and returned to Australia on March 28, 1919.84

77 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, , op cit 78 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 9. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 79 Ibid 80 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, op cit. 81 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 82 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, August, 25. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 83 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, May, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 84 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, , op cit

19

Archibald, George Private, No.3453 14th Machine Gun Battalion Local connection: Erina, NSW Private Archibald was an 18 year old single, Orchardist when he enlisted on October

18, 1915. His next of kin was his father W. Archibald. He embarked from Sydney on

HMAT A35 “Berrima” on December 12, 1915.85 Sergeant George Archibald was from

Erina. His brother was Alexexander Archibald. George was promoted to Sergeant

and was reported that he had been wounded. It was later reported that he had been

dangerously wounded in the arm and thigh.86 He served in Egypt and the Western

Front and returned to Australia on May 12, 1928.87

The Gosford Times of February 7, 1918 recorded that Mrs W. Archibald of Erina

received two letters from a nurse in France, one dated November 12, 1917, saying

that her son was wounded in the right arm and thigh. His arm was so severely

wounded that it had to be amputated on November 9. His condition at that time was

poor. The other letter, quoted in the same edition of The Gosford Times and dated

November 19, 1918 stated that he was improving.88 Early in September with some

other men he was temporarily attached to the miners at Ypres. They had been

combined with some Canadians to form a sapping party. Archibald was the Sergeant

and Canadian officers were in charge. He was working on a windlass at one of the

saps. At dinner time he was getting into his dug-out, legs foremost with his Dixie to

have his dinner when a German mortar was thrown from a trench mortar and burst in

his trench and Sergeant Archibald was hit with fragments.89

The Gosford Times of July 18, 1918 recorded that one of the most successful

functions organised by the lady members of the Erina Branch of the Red Cross was

held on Friday night when a welcome home social was tendered to Lance-Corporal

George Archibald. He was wounded in battle on the western front in France,

resulting in the loss of his right arm. Erina Hall was nicely decorated for the occasion

85 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 86 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, December, 13. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 87 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, , op cit 88 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, February, 7. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 89 National Archives, 2013, op cit..

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with flags, bunting and so on. Banquet tables were tastefully set out and so large

was the attendance of those who gathered to do honour to the returned soldier that

the tables had to be set twice.

Rev. A. Renwick acted as chairman and after a verse of the National Anthem had

been sung, Mr J. M. McDonald proposed “Our Gallant Allies.” The speaker said it

was an honour to have the privilege of proposing so important a toast. The Allies

were notably playing their part in the unflinching determination to stand shoulder to

shoulder till victory was reached and Prussianism was crushed forever. It was

because of Germany’s preparedness that she had been able to stand out for so long,

but there were unmistakable signs now that her power was waning. The glorious

achievements of the Italians, and the transport of a million Americans on the western

front, had altered the military situation and we had every reason to feel confident he

said that, with the help of God victory would rest with the Allies.

Rev. A. Renwick then proposed the health of the guest of the evening. In doing so,

he complimented the Erina people upon the splendid way they did things, upon the

harmony and unity that always characterised social reunions of the kind shown and

in his opinion the way of Erina might well be studied, learned and copied by those

living in other parts of the district. They all got together that night he said on the one

footing to welcome home a brave lad who with God’s blessing had returned from the

war. ”Blessed is the man whom the King delighteth to honour,” so the old saying

went, but blessed indeed was the man whom the people delighted in honouring.

Rev. Renwick then presented on behalf of the residents with an inscribed gold

medallion and in doing so said that everyone was proud of him and appreciated his

noble actions in going forth to fight for King and Country. Mr J. M. McDonald

responded on behalf of Lance-Corporal Archibald. Mr A. M. Davis proposed “The

Parents of Our Gallant Soldier.” Mr W. Archibald had three sons at the front. One

had returned wounded and word was received the day before that another son

Private W. Archibald had also been wounded.

It was the parents who were responsible for the glorious name that Australians had

made on the other side. Mr W. Archibald in responding thanked the residents for

21

their kindness and particularly referred to the splendid work done by the ladies of the

Red Cross, who not only attended to affairs in connection with local send-off and in

welcome home, but never tired of sending parcels to the boys at the front. “The

Visitors” was proposed by Mr W. H. Weiss and acknowledged by Sergeant Forrest,

Gunner Hugh Kennedy and Mr S. Dwyer. Mr R. J. Baker proposed “Our Boys at the

Front,” and Mr H. L. Whittell “The Ladies.”90

Archibald, William Private, No.7440 2nd Battalion, 25th Reinforcements Local connection: Wamberal, NSW Private Archibald was a 30 year old married Orchardist. His next of kin was his wife

Lilian May Archibald of Wamberal.91 He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A20

“Hororata” on June 14, 1917. In a letter published in The Gosford Times of October

4, 1917, Private Archibald from Wamberal wrote to say that they had arrived in

England and had a good time at Durban, South Africa, a port of call.92

The Gosford Times of November 29, 1917 recorded that William said that he was

suffering from rheumatics and at the time was in hospital. He said he expected to get

back to camp soon and to remember him to all his old friends at Wamberal and

thanked all those who helped to put his orchard in order.93 He later stated in early

1918 that he was nearly as well as ever and hoped to be soon back in the firing

line.94 In The Gosford Times of April 11, 1918 it was reported that Private Archibald

had joined up with his Battalion in France.95

The Gosford Times of July 25, 1918 reported that Mr W. Archibald was informed that

his son had been severely wounded. Three of his sons went to war and had been in

90 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, July, 18. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 91 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 92 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, October, 4. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 93 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 29. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 94 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, April, 18. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 95 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, April, 11. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

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the firing line. One had returned without an arm and one was still fighting on in

France.96 He was the brother-in-law of Private William Redgate.97 The Gosford

Times of October 10, 1918 recorded that Private Archibald was on the convalescent

list.98 He served at the Western Front and returned to Australia on October 20,

1918.99

The Gosford Times of January 19, 1919 recorded that a welcome home social was

tendered to Private Archibald, who had returned home wounded. A most enjoyable

evening was spent with Mr W. H. Weiss in the chair. Mr M. Ward J. P., on behalf of

the residents presented him with an inscribed pendant, which Mrs E. T. Andrew

pinned on to his breast amid much applause. Among the speakers was Mr C. J.

Loxton, K.C., whose sincerity and earnest was always so impressive. Private

Archibald then responded.100

Archbold, Gerald Private, No.20006 Army Medical Corps, 4th Brigade Local connection: Narara, NSW Private Archbold was from Narara. He was a 20 year old Orchardist. His next of kin

was his father Frederick Richard Archbold of “Baroona” in Narara. He embarked

from Sydney on board SS “Port Lyttleton” on June 24, 1918.101

The Gosford Times of November 1, 1917 recorded that Private Archbold had

enlisted and was in camp. He underwent two operations to become medically fit.102

While he was extremely grateful to all his friends and well-wishes at Narara, he

requested that no person contribute to the proposed send-off to him as he would not

96 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, July, 25. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 97 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, July, 25. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 98 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, October, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 99 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit 100 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1919, January, 16. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 101 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 102 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 1. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

23

be present. He said “England expects that every man will do his duty.”103 The

Gosford Times of June 20, 1918 reported that Gerald was the son of Mr F. R.

Archbold, Erina Shire President and sailed from Sydney to the war on June 24,

1918.104

On Saturday Mr F. R. Archbold received a cable stating that his son had been

admitted to 47th Stationary Hospital in Egypt suffering from severe dysentery.105 At a

later date Mr Archbold received a cable stating that his son, Acting Corporal

Archbold, recently reported seriously ill in hospital was progressing favourably. He

returned to Australian on January 28, 1919.106

Archbold, William James* Private No.3257 41st Battalion Local connection: Wamberal, NSW Private Archbold was an 18 year old Farmer when he enlisted on February 21, 1916.

His next of kin was his father James and Mary Archbold of Newberry Junction,

Mackay in Queensland. He embarked from Sydney on December 23, 1916 on board

HMAT A64 “Demosthenes”.107

The Gosford Times of February 1, 1917 reported that a social send-off was given to

Private Archbold at Mr Cashin’s Hall in Wamberal, on Friday night, January 19,

1917. Over one hundred friends and well-wishers were present. Mr Manassah Ward

was in the chair. Proceedings were opened by Mr Cashin rendering “God Save the

King”, “Rule Britannia” and “The Marsellaise” on his modern phonograph, with the

audience joining in the “National Anthem”. Several songs and recitation were then

given, the popular Mr Coulson rendering exceptionally good items. Bob Buckingham

103 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 15. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 104 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, June, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 105 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, September, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 106 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, September, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 107 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

24

was encored for his recitation, “The Kaiser’s Dream,” which greatly amused the

audience with “Bob Brown, You’re Spotted.”

The Chairman then in a few words introduced Private Archbold, his wife and mother

saying they deserved the praise of everyone. Private Archbold enlisted because he

felt it his duty to do so, although he already had two brothers at the front with one

wounded. His wife also had three brothers wearing khaki, one being severely

wounded and at present in the hospital at Randwick and another wounded in France.

Mr Loxton, K.C. gave a most instructive and vigorous recruiting speech. He said that

Private Archbold was to be applauded for his sacrifice to duty, especially as being

the owner of a splendid orchard, which he had established by his own energies and

having a wife and child besides his parents, he might easily had been excused

without being called “a striker”, considering the great number without ties who could

enlist, but would not, many of whom were to be seen daily fishing, shooting, at race

meetings and so on, otherwise enjoying themselves. He wished Private Archbold

bon voyage, a safe return to his love ones and hoped his enlisting would be the

means of other recruits from the district coming forward.

Mr E. Robson, Mr C. Redgate, Mr E. Ruff and Mr Rosamond also spoke in the very

highest terms as to Private Archbold’s excellent character and wished him good luck.

The Chairman then called upon Mr Archie Campbell to make the presentation, which

he did in a very neat and appropriate manner. The gifts from the people of Wamberal

were a wristlet watch, patent safety razor and a pair of military brushes; from his

parents a combination knife, fork and spoon, also a money belt; from his sister, Mrs

A. Brown a dozen khaki handkerchiefs; from his sister Mrs W. Brown, a testament

and from the Tumbi Umbi Red Cross League, a parcel of socks and other comforts.

Private Archbold thanked them all for their very great kindness and said he valued

the gifts because he felt that he had the love and good-will of his very good friends

present. The proceedings ended by singing “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow” and three

cheers for “Billy”, three more for his wife and three once again for his parents. After

partaking of the good things provided by the ladies, the Hall was cleared and

dancing indulged in until the small hours, the dance music being provided by the

25

Tumbi Umbi Band. Thanks were given to Miss Agnes Wilson of Terrigal for her very

great help as accompanist on the piano throughout, also to Mrs Cashin and other

including Mrs Morling, who kindly lent her piano for the occasion.108 Private Archbold

was Killed in Action on May 26, 1918 at Villers-Bretonneux.109 He is buried in the

Adelaide Cemetery in Villers-Bretonneaux.110

Argaet, Charles Ward Private, No.21015 Hospital Transport Corp, No.1 Australian Hospital Ship

Local connection: Tuggerah, NSW Private Argaet was from Tuggerah. He was a 39 year old married Farmer when he

enlisted on May 10, 1918. His wife was Florence May Argaet of Tuggerah. He

previously served for eighteen months in the New South Wales Mounted Rifles. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT “No. 1 Hospital Ship” on September 18,

1918.111

He also embarked on a number of ships as his duties were required, the ships were

from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A67 “Orsova” on July 14, 1915;

from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A67 “Orsova” on July17, 1915; from

Melbourne, Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on December 18, 1915;

embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board No 1 Hospital

Ship “Karoola” on May 20, 1916; embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board No 1

Hospital Ship “Karoola” on May 27, 1916; embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on

board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on August 19. 1916.

He embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital

Ship “Karoola” on December 9, 1916; embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board

No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on April 25, 1917; embarked from Sydney, New South

Wales, on board No1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on September 10, 1917; embarked

from Melbourne, Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola “on September 12,

108 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, February, 1. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 109 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit 110 CWGC search http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/25616/ARCHBOLD,%20WILLIAM%20JAMES 111 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit

26

1917; embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on

January 23, 1918; embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital

Ship “Karoola” on March 23, 1918; embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board No

1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on June 12, 1918; embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on

board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on September 18, 1918 and embarked from

Melbourne, Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on February 26, 1919.

Records do not show what happened to him or when he returned to Australia.112

Armitage, Claude Private, No.16078 1st Field Squadron Engineers Special Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Armitage was born at Wyong. He was a 21 year old single Fencer when he

enlisted on August 6, 1916. His next of kin was his father William John Armitage of

Maitland. He embarked from Adelaide on board HMAT A41 “Bakara” on November

4, 1916.113 He returned to Australia on June 27, 1919.114

Armitage, William James Eric Private, No.2939 3rd Battalion, 9th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyee, NSW Private Armitage was born in Wyee. He was an 18 year old single, junior Draftsman

when he enlisted on June 26, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Clara Armitage of

Maitland Rd, Islington in Newcastle. He previously served in the cadets and the

Australian Garrison Artillery. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8

“Argyllshire” on September 30, 1915.115 He returned to Australia on June 16, 1919.

112 Ibid 113 Ibid 114 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit 115 National Archives, 2014, op cit.

27

Armour, Edgar William* Private, No.4956 1st Pioneer Battalion 14th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Armour was an 18 year old single, Painter from George St, at Windsor when

he enlisted on September 28, 1917. His next of kin was his mother Rose May

Armour of George St at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A38

“Ulysses” on December 19, 1917. He was killed in action and was buried at Villers-

Bretonneux Military Cemetery in Fouilloy, France.116 A witness to the incident said

he was a sign writer in civil life and was killed at Hamel on the night of July 4, 1918.

At 9 p.m. he was in a party of seven going to dig a trench on the right of Hamel when

a shell landed on them and he along with two others were killed. No trace of him

could be found and it was tried again the next morning but failed to find him.117

Artup, Edward Harold Victor Sapper, No.6458 13th Battalion 21st Reinforcements Local connection: Tuggerah, NSW Sapper Artup was from Tuggerah. He was a 22 year old married Clerk when he

enlisted on May 10, 1916. His wife was Gladys Artup of Tuggerah. He previously

served in the 18th Infantry Militia. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40

“Ceramic” on October 7, 1916. He received a gunshot wound in France.118 He

returned to Australia on March 25, 1919.119

116 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 117Australian War Memorial, 2014, op cit. 118 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, April, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 119 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au

28

Ashdown, Stanley Alfred Private, No.126 3rd Australian General Hospital Local connection: Morisset, NSW Private Ashdown was from Morisset.120 He was a 23 year old single, Hospital

Attendant when he enlisted on September 19, 1914. His next of kin was his father

Thomas Ashdown of 11 Warnley St in Gravesend. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on October 20, 1914.121

He was wounded in action on July 20, 1916 with a gun shot wound, left ring finger

and admitted to No. 2 Australian Casualty Clearing Station, and then by Ambulance

Train. He was transferred to No. 3 Canadian General Hospital from Boulogne to

England on July 22, 1916, and admitted to St John's Hospital at Hastings in England

which was affiliated with Pavilion Hospital at Brighton He transferred to No. 1

Australian Auxiliary Hospital at Harefield on September 21, 1916 and was

discharged on September 23, 1916. He was granted furlough on September 26,

1916.

He marched in to No. 3 Command Depot at Bovington Camp on October 13, 1916.

Then marched in to No. 2 Command Depot at Weymouth on November 24, 1916.

Then proceeded overseas to France on May 22, 1917. He rejoined 55th Battalion, in

the field on June 12, 1917. He was promoted to Corporal on July 23, 1917. Then

detached to 1st Anzac Infantry School on August 25, 1917. He re-joined his Battalion,

in the field on September 30, 1917. He was detached to 5th Division Headquarters

(Officers' Club) on February 3, 1918 and re-joined his Battalion on February 16,

1918.

He was on leave on March 4, 1918, then re-joined his Battalion from leave on March

22, 1918. He was detached to Brigade School on June 16, 1918. He was admitted to

15th Australian Field Ambulance while at the school on July 7, 1918, and transferred

to 12th Casualty Clearing Station, then transferred to Ambulance Train on July 11,

1918. Admitted to 39th General Hospital in Havre in France on July 16, 1918.

120 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, November, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 121 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

29

Discharged to Base Depot in Havre on August 16, 1918 suffering from balanitis. He

re-joined his Battalion in the field on August 27, 1918.

He commenced his return to Australia (special 12914 leave) from Southampton on

board HMAT “Durham” on October 23, 1918. Disembarked at Melbourne for onward

travel to Sydney on December 24, 1918. He was discharged as medically unfit in

Sydney on February 22, 1919. He served in Egypt, Gallipoli and the Western

Front.122

Ashwell, James Raymond Private, No.1869 45th Battalion 3rd Reinforcements Local connection: Richmond, NSW Private Ashwell was a 30 year old single, Orchardist from Richmond when he

enlisted on February 21, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Emily Ashwell of “Mt

Royal” in Macleay St, at Potts Point in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A69 “Warilda” on May 22, 1916. He returned to Australia on October 20,

1918.123

Atkins, Alfred Stanley# Private, No.5970A 3rd Battalion 19th Reinforcements Local connections: Wyong and Tuggerah, NSW Private Atkins was residing in Tuggerah.124 He was born in Wyong and enlisted on

January 3, 1916 as a 24 year old single Labourer. His next of kin was his brother J.

Atkins of Urunga in New South Wales. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT

A18 “Wiltshire” on August 22, 1916.125 He died of broncho pneumonia on December

27, 1916.126 Alfred is buried in Durrington cemetery, Wiltshire, England.127

122 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 123 Ibid 124 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, Every Mothers Son, Tracing the History of Those from the Central Coast Who Answered Their Country’s Call and the Tributes Created In Their Memory, Gosford City Library 125 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 126 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 127 CWGC Search http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/405281/ATKINS,%20ALFRED%20STANLEY

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Atkins, Arthur Shoobridge* Corporal, No.2763 40th Battalion 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong, NSW Corporal Atkins was from Wyong and enlisted on June 9, 1916. He was 38 years old

married Orchardist when he enlisted. His next of kin was his wife Annie Scott Atkins

c/o C. J. Atkins of Audley St, North Hobart. He embarked from Melbourne on board

the “Orsova” on December 6, 1916 and arrived in Plymouth on February 17, 1917.

He previously served for two years in the Southern Rhodesian Volunteers. He was

killed in action instantly by a shell on October 6, 1917 in Ypres in Belgium. He served

in the Western Front.128 The Red Cross files held by the Australian War Memorial do

not give any details of his death. Arthur is buried in the Tyne Cot cemetery, West-

Vlaanderen, Belgium.129

Atkins, Frank Rowland Lance-Corporal, No.4431 2nd Battalion, 14th Reinforcements Local connection: Erina, NSW Private Atkins was an 18 year old single, Timber Cutter from Erina when he enlisted

on October 5, 1915. His next of kin was his father William Alfred Atkins of Erina. He

embarked from Sydney on board RMS “Osterley” on January 15, 1916.130

Lance-Corporal Atkins was the son of Mr and Mrs W. A. Atkins of Woodport. It had

been reported that he had been missing. It had been found that he was slightly

wounded in the first attack at Pozieres on the night of July 22-23, 1916 by a bullet

wound in the shoulder. He was, it was reported, to be doing well at the detail camp at

Etaples.131 He returned to Australia on May 12, 1919. His brother Private Horace

Atkins had died of disease on January 27, 1917.132

128 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 129 CWGC Search http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/461777/ATKINS,%20ARTHUR%20SHOOBRIDGE 130 National Archives, op cit. 131 Ibid 132 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

31

Atkins, Horace # Private, No. 4426 47th Battalion Local connection: Erina, NSW Private Atkins was from Woodport, Erina. He was a 34 year old single, Labourer

when he enlisted on September 10, 1915. His next of kin was his father W. A. Atkins

of Gosford. He embarked from Brisbane on board HMAT A62 “Wandilla” on January

31, 1916.133 He died suddenly of heart failure in Mametz-Albert in France on January

27, 1917.134 His brother Lance-Corporal Frank Rowland Atkins as above also served

in the Australian Imperial Forces.

Atkinson, George Edward Private, No.3756 55th Battalion 9th Reinforcement Local connections: Wyoming/Lisarow/Mount Elliott, NSW Private Atkinson was a 23 year old Orchardist when he enlisted on September 9,

1915. His next of kin was his mother Caroline Atkinson of Cardiff in Newcastle, who

listed her subsequent address as “Kia-ora”, Gosford, NSW. This property was in the

Mount Elliott area, and appears in a series of photographs dated as 1919, held in

Gosford Library identified as “Hillaroo”. George also appears in these

photographs.135 George embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A54 “Runic” on

January 20, 1916.136 He returned to Australia on December 20, 1918.137

Atkinson, Herbert Sydney Charles Private, No.927 1st Australian Light Horse 5th Reinforcements Local connection: Brooklyn, NSW Private Atkinson was a 31 year old married Farmer residing at Brooklyn on the

Hawkesbury River when he enlisted on January 6, 1915. His next of kin was his wife

Latta May Atkinson, c/o R. M. Atkinson of Brooklyn on the Hawkesbury River. He

133 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 134 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 135 Information from Geoff Potter, Local Studies Librarian, Gosford City Library, January 2015 136 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 137 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au

32

embarked from Newcastle in New South Wales on board HMAT A41 “Bakara” on

May 22, 1915. He returned to Australia on November 21, 1915.138

Austin, Arthur Thomas Private, No.4428 1st Pioneers Local connection: Lisarow, NSW Private Austin was from Woodstock near Bathurst, NSW. He was a 24 year old

single, Railway employee when he enlisted on October 5, 1915. His next of kin was

his sister Eileen Elizabeth Herring of Lisarow. He embarked from Sydney on board

RMS “Osterley” on January 15, 1916.139 He served on the Western Front and

returned to Australia on May 12, 1919.140

Aylward, Thomas William Private, No.1875 30th Battalion 2nd Reinforcement Local connection: Morisset, NSW Private Aylward was a 25 year old single, Labourer for the Hospital for the Insane at

Morisset when he enlisted on July 16, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Sophia

Aylward, c/o R Aylward of 28 Abbott Street in North Sydney. He embarked form

Sydney on board HMAT A35 “Berrima” on December 17, 1915. He was

recommended for the Military Medal (MM) on October 16, 1917. A man of the same

name died in 1954 at Parramatta, NSW.141 It should be noted that a Queensland

man named Thomas William Aylward, who does not appear to have been the same

person, had the WW1 Service number 20186 and joined the Australian Flying Corps. 142

138 Ibid 139 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 140 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 141 NSW BDM Index search 142 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

33

Ayrton, Eric Guyong (Eric Gregory) Private, No.6030 20th Battalion Local connection: Hawkesbury River Railway Bridge Guard, Brooklyn, NSW Private Ayrton was a 19 year old single, Cleaner when he enlisted on August 18,

1916. His next of kin was his father Pelhan Ayrton of Woodstock St, Waverton in

New South Wales He embarked form Sydney on board HMAT A11 “Ascanius” on

October 25, 1916.143

The Gosford Times of September 8, 1916 recorded that Private Ayrton previously of

the Hawkesbury River Bridge Guards was farewelled at the Convent of Mercy Hall in

Brooklyn. The function was organised by Sergeants S. Sheehan and Gillard of the

Guards. Lieutenant H. E. Naughten presented Ayrton with a wristlet watch on behalf

of his comrades and while Master Vincent Kelly presented a silver boomerang and

cigarette case (his own gift).144 Private Ayrton returned to Australia on January 2,

1919.145

Bailey, Albert Lyall^ Private, No.6947 15th Battalion, 23rd Reinforcements Local connection: St. Albans, NSW Private Bailey was born at St. Albans, NSW. He was a 23 year old single, Stockman

when he enlisted at Rockhampton, QLD on October 12, 1916. His next of kin was his

father A. J. Bailey of St. Albans. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A72

“Beltana” on November 25, 1916. He suffered a gunshot wound to the head on July

10, 1917 and died that day at No. 2 Australian Casualty Clearing Station in

Belgium.146 He served on the Western Front and was buried at the Trois-Arbres

Cemetery at Steenwerck in France.147

143 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, November, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 144 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, September, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 145 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 146 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 147 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

34

The Gosford Times of August 2, 1917 recorded that news had been received by his

parents of the death of their son somewhere in France. Private Bailey was a big

strong young man and one who would inspire his mates with courage. It was a great

pity that such a fine type of soldier, a man of such splendid physique with the iron

constitution that he possessed, should have fallen so soon. No wonder the enemy

have a wholesome dread of Australians such as he was. The only particulars at hand

at the time were that he was hit in the head by a bullet and died the day after. He

was the son of Mr and Mrs A. J. Bailey of St. Albans. Rev. A. P. Hannington held a

memorial service on Sunday last.148

Bailey, Arthur Manasseh Gunner, No. 38783 Field Artillery Brigade, Reinforcement 33 Local connections: Yarramalong and Ourimbah, NSW Gunner Bailey was born at Yarramalong, NSW. He was a 31 year old married,

Orchardist when he enlisted at Show Ground Camp, Sydney on November 24, 1916.

His next of kin was his wife Isabella Alice Elizabeth Bailey, resident of Ivy Cottage,

Ourimbah NSW. He embarked on HMAT A38 “Ulysses” on December 19, 1917. He

returned to Australia on the “Orita” on August 9, 1919.149

Bailey, Cecil Henry^ Private, No.6 13th Battalion, A Company Local connection: Laughtondale, Lower Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Bailey apparently had family links to Laughtondale on the Lower Hawkesbury

River, NSW, and is remembered on an Honour Roll board at Wisemans Ferry

Bowling Club.150 He was a 20 years old single Electrician when he enlisted at

Rosebery Park Camp on September 9, 1914. His next of kin was Mrs Ethel Bailey of

the District Hospital at Narrandera in New South Wales. He embarked from

Melbourne on board HMAT A38 “Ulysses” on December 22, 1914. He embarked at

Alexandria to join the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force in Gallipoli on April 12,

148 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, August, 2. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 149 NAA: B2455, Bailey, A. M. 150 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, op cit..

35

1915. He was wounded in action at Gallipoli on May 3, 1915 with a perforating

wound to the abdomen.151 He died of his wounds on May 7, 1915 in No. 17 General

Hospital in Alexandria, Egypt. He was buried at the Chatby Memorial Cemetery in

Egypt.152

Bailey, Clarence John Private, No.58997 Machine Gun Battalion Local connection: Yarramalong, NSW Private Bailey was born at Yarramalong. He was a 19 year old single, Orchardist

when he enlisted on May 27, 1918. His next of kin was his mother Victoria Sofia

Bailey of “Ronkana”, Ourimbah. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A30

“Borda” on July 17, 1918.153

The Gosford Times of June 20, 1918 noted that on Saturday night last he and four

others were entertained at a farewell social in the Ourimbah School of Arts, the

attendances being exceptionally large and thoroughly representative. The organisers

were Mrs S. Bridges, Mrs W. H. Foott, Mrs W. M. Reid, Mrs Coghlan, Mrs C. Ingram,

Mrs Eaton and Miss Murphy. Mrs Read was the Secretary and Mrs Ingram was the

Treasurer. In a neat speech Mrs Bridges made a presentation to each recruit from

the ladies of an air cushion and mirror and on behalf of Mrs Luxford a pair of socks.

The purport of Mrs Bridge’s speech was most appropriate and timely and will

doubtless long be remembered by the recipients and all present.

The Gosford Times further reported that on behalf of Mr A. S. Jaques, Mr F. D.

Burns read an address which contained sound and useful advice to the recruits and

presented each of them with a gold ring. The gallant young men also received other

presents from friends at Gosford, Tuggerah and Wyong. Mr F. R. Archbold, Shire

President, spoke highly of the recruits for their noble resolution and earnestly pointed

out the necessity for more recruits in the present struggle for right, freedom and

151 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 152 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 153 National Archives, 2013, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records

36

justice, as opposed to the arrogant claim of the semi-demented Kaiser to rule the

world by the sword.

Private Anthony of Tuggerah, a returned soldier also addressed the meeting in

suitable terms. Private Bailey responded for the presentation made by Mrs Bridges.

Mr W. M. Reid responded on behalf of the recruits for Mr Jacques presents. The

National Anthem having been sung in the good old loyal manner, the assemblage

engaged in dancing to excellent music by the piano by Mrs Eaton, while the others

looked on at the bright merry gathering and no doubt talked of the good old times.

During the evening several musical items were rendered by friends. The hall was

beautifully decorated by many willing hands and there was no lack of cordial help for

the organisers when refreshments were heralded. Shortly before midnight the

assemblage sang in the orthodox style the good old Scottish favourite “Auld Lang

Syne.” The boys had a hearty send-off on Sunday evening by their many friends

when they left by train to resume their duties at camp.154 Private Clarence Bailey

returned to Australia on July 22, 1919.155

Baines, Arthur Private, No.2114 1st Battalion 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Mangrove Mountain, NSW Private Baines was from “Ironbark”, Mangrove Mountain. He was a 23 year old

single, Farmer when he enlisted on April 4, 1915. His next of kin was his father

George Baines of Manor Farm, Hampstead in Birmingham, England. He embarked

from Sydney on board HMAT A63 “Karoola” on June 16, 1915.156 He returned to

Australia on May 16, 1917.157

154 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, June, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 155 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 156 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 157 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

37

Baker, Arthur Private, No.1151 5th Australian Light Horse 8th Reinforcements Local connection: Richmond, NSW Private Baker was a 44 year old single, Labourer from Lennox St at Richmond when

he enlisted on March 4, 1915. His next of kin was his sister Mary Ann Drayton of

Lennox St in Richmond. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A55 “Kyarra” on

August 10, 1915. He returned to Australia on May 23, 1917.158

Baker, Arthur Edward^ Private, No.46 19th Battalion C Company Local connection: Catherine Hill Bay, NSW Private Baker was a 21 year old single, Colliery Engineer residing at Catherine Hill

Bay and attended Catherine Hill Public School. He enlisted on February 20, 1915.

His next of kin was his mother Mary Jane Baker and his father was William E. Baker

of Catherine Hill Bay. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on

June 25, 1915. He died of wounds from a compound fracture of the femur from a

bomb on November 10, 1915 at Lone Pine in Gallipoli and was buried at Shrapnel

Valley Cemetery in Gallipoli.159

Baker, Joseph James Private, No.66147 21st New South Wales Reinforcements Local connection: Brooklyn, Hawkesbury River NSW Private Baker was an 18 year old single, Grocer residing at Brooklyn on the

Hawkesbury River when he enlisted on July 8, 1918. His next of kin was his father J.

Baker of Brooklyn on the Hawkesbury River. He embarked from Adelaide in South

Australia on board HMAT A36 “Boonah” on October 22, 1918. It appears that he

returned to Australia on the same vessel in early February 1919.160

158 Ibid 159 Ibid 160 Ibid

38

Baker, Robert Earsman Baker Private, No.5040 1st Battalion 16th Reinforcements Local connection: Catherine Hill Bay, NSW Private Baker was a 20 year old single student residing at Catherine Hill Bay when

he enlisted on August 17, 1915. His next of kin was his Mother Mrs H. J. Baker Snr

of Catherine Hill Bay. He embarked from Sydney on board SS “Makarini” on April I,

1916. He returned to Australia on April 5, 1919.161

Bale, Harold* Private, No.1237 8th Battalion, 2nd Reinforcements Local connection: Yarramalong, NSW Private Bale had connections with Yarramalong. He is remembered on an Honour

Roll Board at Yarramalong School of Arts Hall, and on the Wyong War Memorial.162

He was a 21 year old single, Electrician when he enlisted on September 9, 1914. His

next of kin was his father S. H. Bale of Gundagai in New South Wales He embarked

from Melbourne on board HMAT A46 “Clan McGillivray” on February 2, 1915. He

was killed in action on August 27, 1915 at Gallipoli.163

Ballinger, Arthur Percival^ Private, No.2108 3rd Battalion 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Ballinger was from Ourimbah. He was a 26 year old Orchardist when he

enlisted on May 10, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Emily Ballinger of Folly

House, Coleford, Gloucestershire in England. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A63 “Karoola” on June 16, 1915. On August 6, 1915 he suffered a gunshot

wound to his chest at Lone Pine and was transferred to England on September 20,

1915. On October 5, 1915 he suffered a gunshot wound to the left thorax and

fractured ribs. He was discharged on October 28, 1915 and was invalided to

161 Ibid 162 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, Every Mothers Son, Tracing the History of Those from the Central Coast Who Answered Their Country’s Call and the Tributes Created In Their Memory, Gosford City Library 163 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.

39

Australia on board “Themistocles” on May 8, 1916 and was discharged from the

army permanently as medically unfit with a gunshot wound to his chest. He died on

February 28, 1918.164 His death was registered at Katoomba, NSW.165

Banks, Arthur Thomas* Private, No.5331 56th Battalion Local connection: Matcham, NSW Arthur Thomas Banks was born at Milton, near Brisbane, QLD. He was a 24 year old

cabinet-maker at the time of his enlistment on January 27, 1916. His next-of-kin was

listed as Mr. Robert Banks, of Oak Road, Matcham near Gosford, NSW. He

embarked from Sydney on HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on April 14, 1916. Following a bout

of sickness, he rejoined his battalion before being killed in action on November 1,

1916.166

The Gosford Times of December 7, 1916 recorded that Mr R. Banks of Matcham

was informed on Saturday morning, that his son Private Arthur Thomas Banks had

been killed in action in France on November 1, 1916. He was 25 year old and was

born at Brisbane and when he was a baby his parents moved to Parramatta where

he lived until 1910 leaving the historic old town for Matcham. He was a cabinet-

maker by trade and was a member of the staff of Toogood and Jones of Parramatta

when he enlisted as a private in the 4th Battalion, 17th Reinforcements the previous

December. He frequently came to Matcham and became well known and respected

as the type of young Australian. His death was sincerely regretted. The cable

announcing his death was received by Rev. A. Renwick, Rector of Christ Church in

Gosford.167 Private Banks’ name is recorded on the Villers-Bretoneaux memorial on

the Somme in France.168

164 Ibid 165 NSWBDM Index Certificate 1224/1918 166 NAA: B245, Banks, A.T. 167 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, December, 7. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 168 CWGC Search http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1457748/BANKS,%20ARTHUR%20THOMAS

40

Barnes, Basil Edward Private, No.191 1st Field Ambulance C Squadron Local connection: Hawkesbury Agricultural College, Richmond, NSW Private Barnes was a 22 year old single, Student of the Hawkesbury College at

Richmond when he enlisted on August 24, 1914. His next of kin was his father John

Barnes of Kingsclive at Newbery, Hampshire in England. He embarked from Sydney

on board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on October 20, 1914. He returned to Australia on

March 17, 1919.169

Barnes, Charles Ernest Private, No.11499 3rd Field Bakery Local connection: Warnervale, NSW Private Barnes was a 44 year old married Baker from Warnervale when he enlisted

on May 2, 1916. His next of kin was his wife E. B. Barnes c/o Warnervale Post

Office. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A64 “Demosthenes” on May 18,

1916. Apparently suffering from trachoma, he was discharged and returned to

Australia on HMAT “Benalla” on February 13, 1917.170

Barnes, Reginald Frederick* Private, No.1314 9th Battalion, 2nd Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong district, NSW Private Barnes was believed to have been known in the Wyong District. He was 20

year old single Labourer when he enlisted on December 8, 1914. His next of kin was

his mother Mrs S. Barnes of Hermitage Rd, Finsbury Park in London, England. He

embarked from Brisbane on board HMAT A48 “Seang Bee” on February 13, 1915.

He was wounded by a shell to his right wrist in Gallipoli on July 7, 1915. He then

went to France where he was killed in action on April 15, 1917 at Noreuil.171

169 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 170 Ibid 171 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit..

41

Barnes, Samuel* Private, No.5311 17th Battalion 14th Reinforcements Local connection: Kanwal, NSW Private Barnes was from Kanwal.172 He was a 42 year old married Pipe machine

Fitter when he enlisted on March 6, 1915. His wife was Mary Ann Barnes of 12 Bank

Avenue, Daceyville in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A18

“Wiltshire” on August 22, 1916.173 He was killed in action on April 14, 1917 at

Lagnicourt. He had been shot in the head just as the men were ordered back to the

trenches from the open when the Germans were advancing. He was buried in a

support trench.174

Barron, William John Private, No.59228 18th Battalion 12th Reinforcements Local connection: Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Barron was born at Hawkesbury River. He was a 38 year old married

Veterinary Surgeon when he enlisted on June 6, 1918. His wife was L. Barron of

Darlinghurst in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A30 “Borda” July 17,

1918.175 He returned to Australia on July 13, 1919.176

Bartle, Thomas Private, No.6163 18th Battalion 17th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Bartle was a 19 year old single, Labourer from Catherine St, Windsor when

he enlisted on December 18, 1915. His next of kin was his father William Bartle of

Catherine St at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A11 “Ascanius”

on October 25, 1916. He returned to Australia on December 9, 1918.177

172 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, December, 13. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 173 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 174 Australian War Memorial, 2014, www.awm.gov.au/research/people/wounded_and_missing 175 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 176 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 177 Ibid

42

Bartlett, Harold Private, No.5045 4th Battalion 16th Reinforcements Local connection: Woy Woy, NSW Private Bartlett was a 22 year old single Labourer residing at Woy Woy when he

enlisted on January 11, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Hannah Bartlett of Woy

Woy. He embarked from Sydney on board SS “Makarini” on April 1, 1916. He

returned to Australia on July 9, 1919.178

Bass, Oliver William Private, No.11496 3rd Field Bakery Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Bass was a 22 year old single, Labourer from Bridge St, at Windsor when he

enlisted on February 23, 1916. His next of kin was his grandparent Mrs M. Bass of

Bridge St, at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A64

“Demosthenes” on May 18, 1916. He returned to Australia on March 5, 1919.179

Bateup, John* Private, No.2531 34th Battalion, 5th Reinforcement Local connection: Wyee, NSW Private Bateup was a 20 year old single, Labourer, whose address was at the Wyee

Post Office when he enlisted on September 19, 1916. His next of kin was his father

Alfred Bateup of Wyee in New South Wales. His previous military training was with

the 42nd Infantry in the Compulsory Military Training scheme. He embarked from

Sydney on board SS “Napier” on November 17, 1916. He was killed in action when

he and others went over the top and was killed by high explosive at Messines in

France on June 8, 1917.180 He served on the Western Front and has no known

grave and his name appears on Menin Gate.181

178 Ibid 179 Ibid 180 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 181 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

43

Batey, Blakeston Private, No.726 3rd Mobile Veterinary Section Local connection: Matcham, NSW Private Batey was a 26 year old married Groom residing at Matcham Estate when he

enlisted on February 21, 1916. His next of kin was his wife Mrs Mary Batey of

Matcham Estate, near Gosford, NSW. He embarked from Melbourne in Victoria on

board HMAT A58 “Kabinga” on May 8, 1916. He returned to Australia on July 1,

1919.182

Bayliss, Edward Oscar Private, No.4439 54th Battalion Local connection: Ettalong Beach, NSW Private Bayliss was listed in Michael Rooksberry’s book Every Mothers’ Son as

being from the Woy Woy Peninsula.183 As it sometimes happens, Private Bayliss is

mistakenly listed as having died in WW1. This was not the case... he was living at

Ettalong Beach NSW in the 1940s, as evidenced in a letter to Defence.184 He was a

37 year old married Tram Driver when he enlisted on August 12, 1915. His wife was

Alice Maud Bayliss of 29 Fitzroy St at Summer Hill in Sydney. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A70 “Ballarat” on December 16, 1916.185 He returned to

Australia on October 17, 1916.186

Bean, Albert Henry* Private, No 5986 13th Battalion, 19th Reinforcements Local connection: Wamberal, NSW Private Bean was a 21 year old single Market Gardener when he enlisted on March

6, 1916. His parents were Albert Arthur and Amelia Bean of Queanbeyan in New

South Wales. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A18 “Wiltshire on August

182 Ibid 183 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, op cit. 184 NAA: B2455, BAYLISS E O 185 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 186 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

44

22, 1916.187 He was killed in action on April 11, 1917. The Battalion was in action at

Bullecourt and they went over the top at 5 a.m. and about a quarter of an hour later

he was seriously wounded in the arm. He said to another soldier that he was going

back and he was able to walk. He was reported missing and later a Court of Enquiry

held in June found that he was killed in action188 He was buried at Queant Road

Cemetery at Buissy in France. He served in the Western Front. The Gosford Times

of July 26, 1917 recorded that Private Bean was from Wamberal. He was for some

years in the employ of Mr Forbes Campbell as a market gardener and was popular

with everybody.189

Beattie, Charles Private, No.6466 4th Battalion, 21st Reinforcements Local connections: Tuggerah and Gosford, NSW Private Beattie was born near Gosford, and had connections to Tuggerah. He was a

20 year old single Labourer when he enlisted on March 3, 1915. His next of kin was

Mrs Maydeline Beattie of Gosford. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A60

“Aeneas” on October 30, 1916. Private Beattie was reported as having been taken a

Prisoner of War, being held at Limburg, A/Lahn, Germany. He returned to Australia

on July 26, 1919. He had served on the Western Front.190

Beattie, Ernest Private, No.2292 17th Battalion 4th Reinforcements Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Beattie was born at Ourimbah. He was an 18 year old single, Baker when he

enlisted on July 15, 1915. His next of kin was his father John Arnold Beattie of Mann

St in Gosford. He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A8 “Argyllshire” on September

30, 1915.191 He returned to Australia on December 12, 1918.192

187 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 188 Australian War Memorial, 2014, op cit. 189 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, July, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 190 NAA: B2455, BEATTIE C 191 Ibid 192 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

45

Beavan, Amos Reynolds Private, Depot Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Private Beavan was born at Wollombi. He was a 25 year old married Police

Constable when he attempted to enlist in August 1918. His wife was Verlie Beavan

of 9 Young St, Neutral Bay in Sydney.193 Records suggest that he was unable to

enlist owing to a medical condition.194

Beavan, George Private, Depot Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Private Beavan was born at Wollombi. He was a 21 year old single, Shop Assistant

when he enlisted on May 15, 1916. His next of kin was his father John Beavan of

Dumaresqe St in Cooks Hill in New South Wales He previously served six months in

16th Infantry Militia. 195 Records do not show what happened to him or when he

returned to Australia, although he was discharged from the military at his parents’

request, as he was said to have been at enlistment.

Beckingham, Stephen Henry Private, No. 7201 4th Battalion Local connection: Tumbi Umbi, NSW Private Beckingham was a 27 year old Orchardist when he enlisted on March 14,

1917. His next of kin was his father E. Beckingham of Tumbi Umbi.196

The Gosford Times of April 5, 1917 recorded that Private Beckingham was from

Tumbi Umbi and was entertained at a send-off. A goodly number of residents were

present to wish him a safe return. Speeches were made by Mr E. Robson, Mr P.

Nolan and Mr Sullivan. Mr C. Redgate responded on Private Beckingham’s behalf. A

most enjoyable and social evening was spent concluding with the National

193 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 194 NAA; B2455, BEAVAN A R 195 Ibid 196 Ibid

46

Anthem.197 Private Beckingham, writing home said it fell to his sad task to bury Bill

Redgate and said that they put a wooden cross over his grave.198 Records do not

show what happened to him or when he returned to Australia, however he was

deceased by 1938.

Bell, Darcy Private, No. 3507 4th Battalion 11th Reinforcements Local connection: Hawkesbury River railway tunnel, NSW Private Darcy was originally from Woodstock, NSW. He was a 28 year old Labourer

when he enlisted on August 5, 1915. His next of kin was his father Jack Bell of

Woodstock in New South Wales He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A17

“Port Lincoln” on October 13, 1915.199 He was 29 years of age when he was

discharged as medically unfit. He was struck by a Sydney train in the Woy Woy

tunnel while working as a railway patrol man and died in November 1917.200

Bellia, Francis Signaller, No.7209 1st Battalion, 24th Reinforcement Local connection: Tuggerah, NSW Private Bellia appears to have had connections with Tuggerah. He was a 27 year old

married Driver when he enlisted on January 23, 1917. His wife was S. H. Bellia of

“Meroo” in Tavistock Rd at Flemington in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on

board RMS “Osterley” on February 10, 1917. On February 13, 1918 he suffered from

scabies. He was acting signaller at headquarters at the time of his death when he

was killed in action on April 17, 1918 in France by a shell explosion near Strazeele.

A farm house was being used as headquarters when it was heavily shelled and

Private Bellia was doing duty there and was ordered to occupy a trench near there

for safety but it was hit by a high explosive shell and he was killed instantly201 leaving

197 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, April, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 198 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, June, 27. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 199 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 200 Gosford Library, 2013, Local History, www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/library/local_history 201 Ibid

47

behind three little children and was the brother-in-law of Mrs J. J. Parry of Erina.202

He was buried at Meteren Military Cemetery in France. He served at the Western

Front.203

Bennett, Athol Rupert* Private, No.2531 39th Battalion 5th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Bennett attended Ebenezer and Windsor Public School and Windsor

Grammar. He was a 22 year old single, Farmer when he enlisted on September 26,

1916. His next of kin was his father John Bennett of Ebenezer via Windsor.204 He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A24 “Benalla” on November 9, 1916.205

The Gosford Times of October 1, 1915 recorded that Private Athol Bennett of

Ebenezer was accorded a send-off by the settlers on the Hawkesbury River in the

School of Arts, Lower Portland before his departure on active service. Private

Bennett was presented with a gold mounted fountain pen.206 He was killed in action

instantly from a bursting shell on October 12, 1917 in Belgium he was carried back to

the lines and was buried at Agustus Wood in Belgium.207

Bennett, Frank William Private, No.2785 5th Field Ambulance C Section Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Bennett was a 25 year old single, Leading Porter from Windsor St, at

Richmond when he enlisted on February 24, 1915. His next of kin was his mother

Elizabeth Bennett of Windsor St, at Richmond. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A31 “Ajana” on May 31, 1915. He was promoted to the rank of Corporal on

202 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, May, 16. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 203 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 204 Ibid 205 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 206 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 16. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 207 www. awm.gov.au/people/roll-search/wounded_and missing_

48

March 23, 1917 then to Lance-Sergeant on January 5, 1919 and returned to

Australia on March 23, 1919.208

Bennett, Leslie Norman Private, No.66184 57th Battalion Local connection: Brooklyn, NSW Private Bennett was born at Brooklyn. He was a 20 year old single, Motor Mechanic

when he enlisted on May 17, 1918. His next of kin was his mother Esther Bennett of

125 Rose St, Darlington in Sydney. He embarked from Melbourne on board SS

“Zealandic” on October 5, 1918. He returned to Australia on the “Friedrichsruh”

which sailed on January 23, 1920. 209

Bennett, Roy Benson Distinguished Conduct Medal Sergeant, No.19243 7th Field Artillery Brigade Brigade Ammunition Column Local connection: Windsor, NSW Sergeant Bennett was a 24 year old single, Carpenter from Windsor St, from

Richmond when he enlisted on January 17, 1916. His next of kin was his father A. G.

Bennett of Windsor St at Richmond. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8

“Argyllshire” on May 11, 1916. He was awarded the Distinguish Conduct Medal

(DCM) for conspicuous bravery at Pleogsteert in Belgium by, as cited,

At Ploegsteert, Belgium on the nights, 4/5, 5/6 and 6/7 June 1917 this non-commissioned officer was in charge of the working party at the gun ammunition dump at Ploegsteert siding. The dump was shelled continually during three consecutive nights with gas and other shells and this non-commissioned officer by his coolness under fire, his disregard of danger, and his personal example, succeeded in imparting confidence to the gunners working under him, and enabled the issue of ammunition to proceed almost without interruption. The dump was eventually set on fire, and it was impossible to issue any more ammunition from it. “Commonwealth Gazette” No. 219, December 20, 1917.

208 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 209 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

49

He returned to Australian on April 30, 1919.210

Bennett, William Henry Private, No.3240 2nd Battalion 11th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Bennett was a 19 year old single, Farmer from Wilberforce Rd, at Windsor

when he enlisted on July 11, 1915. His next of kin was his mother S. Herbert of

Wilberforce Rd at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A14

“Euripides” on November 2, 1915. He returned to Australia on May 15, 1919.211

Bentley, Ernest Richard Private, No.3708 13th Battalion, 12th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Bentley was a 25 year old single Law Clerk when he enlisted on August 11,

1915. His next of kin was his father G. W. Bentley of “Dyrabba” of Addison Rd

Marrickville in Sydney. He previously served four years as a senior cadet in

Tenterfield and was a member of a rifle club for twelve months. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A29 “Suevic” on December 20, 1915 and was a brother of

Lionel Bentley who also served.212 He returned to Australia on August 31, 1916.213

The Gosford Times of June 7, 1916 recorded that Private Bentley, who returned from

the war some time earlier died in Randwick Hospital on Thursday aged 27 years.

Before enlisting he was employed in the Wyong office of Mr R Harris, solicitor.214 He

was interred at Rookwood Cemetery, Lidcombe. He enlisted with the Australian

Imperial Forces but he was invalided home suffering from diabetes.215

210 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 211 Ibid 212 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 213 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 214 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, June, 14. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 215 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, June, 7. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

50

Bentley, Harold Ernest Henry Private, No.4983 18th Battalion 13th Reinforcements Local connections: Tuggerah and Wyong, NSW Private Bentley was from Tuggerah (more specifically Wyong).216 He was a 19 year

old single Mill Hand when he enlisted on January 24, 1916 His next of kin was his

mother Mrs E. M. Berger of Panonia Rd at Wyong. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A55 “Kyarra” on June 5, 1916. He was wounded on June 7, 1917. He

served on the Western Front and returned to Australia on October 20, 1918. He died

on April 29, 1921 and was buried at Jilliby Cemetery.217

Bentley, Lionel Samuel^ Lance-Corporal, No.1779 18th Battalion 2nd Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Bentley was from the Wyong district.218 He was a 20 year old single,

Labourer when he enlisted on June 11, 1915. His next of kin was his father G. W.

Bentley of “Dyrabba” in Addison Rd, Marrickville in Sydney. He previously served as

a cadet in the Compulsory Military Training. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A61 “Kanowna” on June 19, 1915. He suffered a gunshot wound to the

abdomen and died at the 16th Casualty Clearing Station on August 28, 1915 at Hill

60 in Gallipoli. His brother was Ernest Richard Bentley who also served.219

The Gosford Times of October 1, 1915 recorded that on Tuesday morning Mr G. W.

Bentley, a member of the staff of The Gosford Times received word that his brother

Lance-Corporal Lionel S. Bentley had died from wounds received in action at the

Dardanelles. As this was the first intimation that Mr Bentley had received from his

brother had been wounded it naturally came as a great shock. Lionel was only 16

years of age when he sailed.220 Yet the official records show that his age at the time

216 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 217 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 218 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, Every Mothers Son, Tracing the History of Those from the Central Coast Who Answered Their Country’s Call and the Tributes Created In Their Memory, Gosford City Library 219 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 220 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, October, 1. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

51

of death was 17 years and 9 months but the cemetery records and gravestone at

Embarkation Pier Cemetery, a special memorial at Gallipoli says he was 19 years of

age.221

Benton, Sydney Thomas Private, No.60176 1st Battalion 16th Reinforcements Local connection: Catherine Hill Bay, NSW Private Benton was a 39 year old married miner residing at Catherine Hill Bay when

he enlisted on May 25, 1918. His next of kin was his wife M A Benton of the Mine

Camp at Catherine Hill Bay. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A41

“Bakara” on September 4, 1918. He returned to Australia on March 31, 1919.222

Benzing, Christian William Private, No.1118 3rd Battalion F Company Local connection: Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Benzing was possibly born at Hawkesbury River, near Gosford. Other

records suggest that he may have been born in the Rockdale area of Sydney. He

was a 19 year old single, Drapery Salesman when he enlisted on September 25,

1914. His next of kin was Susannah Miriam Benzing of Dinmore St at Rockdale in

Sydney. He previously served in the militia. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A14 “Euripides” on October 20, 1914.223 He returned to Australia on

November 4, 1915.224

Beresford, John James Private, No.6473 13th Battalion 21st Reinforcements Local connections: Blackwall and Woy Woy, NSW Private Beresford was a 22 year old single, Labourer when he enlisted on May 1,

1916. His next of kin was his brother Ernest Beresford of 29 Francis St at Leichardt

221 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 222 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 223 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 224 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

52

in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on October 7,

1916.225

The Gosford Times of April 19, 1917 recorded that a private cable the previous week

by the parents of Private Beresford reported that he was quite well under date of

April 3, 1917.226 The paper also stated that he was from Blackwall where he lived for

the previous nine years. His battalion expected to leave for England soon for further

training. Jack’s many Woy Woy friends remembered him as a devotee of the dance

and rarely did the late “Ginty” Murphy steer his launch to Gosford with passengers

for any social function, but Jack was among them. He attained his 25th birthday while

in Cootamundra Camp and received many useful presents, included knitted socks

from young lady friends at Blackwall. He was employed at the late Rock Davis ship

yards and was popular for his many good qualities.227 He returned to Australia on

May 1, 1919.228

Berry, Herbert Vincent. Mentioned in despatches. Military Medal Private, No.6611 8th Field Ambulance Section A Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Berry was born at Wyong. He was a 23 year old single, Carpenter when he

enlisted on June 14, 1915. His next of kin was his father William A. Berry of Neutral

Bay in Sydney. He embarked from Melbourne on board HMAT A11 “Ascanius” on

November 10, 1915.229 He was awarded the Military Medal (MM) as cited:

On 21.9.17 while stationed at right R.A.P. near WESTHOEK during heavy enemy shelling, in which some of the Regimental stretcher bearers were killed and wounded, word was brought in that a man had been hit. This N.C.O. with two others dashed out through the barrage and succeeded in bringing the wounded man in, undoubtedly saving his life. While carrying out this act of

225 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 226 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, April, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 227 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, July, 21. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 228 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 229 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, July, 21. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

53

gallantry, Lance Corporal Berry was severely wounded and was dressed and carried in under heavy shell fire. This N.C.O. was previously mentioned in dispatches on 8.12.16 for special good work.

Commonwealth Gazette' No. 76, May 23, 1918. He returned to Australia on January

18, 1919.230 He returned to Australia 18 January 1919. 231

Betts, Archibald Winter Private, No.3683 2nd Div. Machine Gun Coy Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Betts was born at Wyong. He was a 23 year old single, Farmer when he

enlisted on April 4, 1916. His next of kin was his father M. N. W. Betts of Mudgee in

New South Wales 232 He embarked from Melbourne on HMAT A73 “Commonwealth”

on September 19, 1916. He served on the Western Front and returned to Australia

on July 7, 1919. His brother was Private Percy William Betts No.3163.233

Betts, Percy William Private, No.3163 4th Divisional Headquarters Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Betts was born at Gosford. He was a 29 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on August 2, 1915. His next of kin was his father William Betts of Mudgee in

New South Wales. In 1907 he served with the 2nd Light Horse. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A70 “Ballarat” on September 6, 1915234 He returned to

Australia on July 7, 1919. His brother was Archibald Winter Betts No.3683.235

230 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 231 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 232 Ibid 233 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 234 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 235 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

54

Beveridge, Albert Kennedy Private, No.92387 Depot Private Beveridge was born at Gosford. He was a 20 year old single, man when he

enlisted on August 8, 1918. His next of kin was his father Henry Sidney Beveridge of

Wallace St Balmoral in Sydney. He previously served three years in the senior

cadets and militia (Sydney University).236 Records do not show what happened to

him or when he returned to Australia. It is possible that Albert served in Australia.

Beveridge, Arthur Robert Engineer, No.17030 2nd Battalion 17th Reinforcements Local connection: Erina, NSW Private Beveridge was a 24 year old Telephone Mechanic when he enlisted on

March 27, 1916. His next of kin was his father Mr W. Beveridge J.P., from Erina. He

later married and his next of kin was his wife Mrs B. J. Beveridge of “Brooklyn” of

Burwood Rd in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A9 “Shropshire”

on May 11, 1917.237 He returned to Australia on June 20, 1919.238

Black, Frank Edward# Private, No. 528 12th Australian Light Horse C Squadron Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Black was a 32 year old married Butcher residing c/o J R Baker at Gosford

when he enlisted on January 19, 1915. His next of kin was his wife Jurine Black c/o

Miss Black Milroy-Hon at Kensington in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A29 “Suevic” on June 13, 1915. He died of disease on December 26,

1915 and was buried at the Greenwich Cemetery in London, England. His parents

were George and Jane Black. He served at Egypt and Gallipoli.239

236 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 237 Ibid 238 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 239 Ibid

55

Black, James Private, No.2767 35th Battalion 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Morisset, NSW Private Black was a 23 year old single Grocer from Morisset Hospital when he

enlisted on October 25, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Sarah Black of

“Beechworth” at Brompton St, in Marrickville in Sydney. He was previously rejected

for military service due to his eyesight. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT

A72 “Beltana” on November 25, 1916. He was admitted to 11th Australian Field

Ambulance on January 10, 1918 with defective vision and re-joined his unit on

January 12, 1918.

He was admitted to 9th Australian Field Ambulance on February 7, 1918 and was

discharged to Base Depot on April 10, 1918. Total period of treatment was sixty-

three days. He rejoined his unit on June 3, 1918. He was admitted to 10th Australian

Field Ambulance on July 18, 1918 with defective vision and re-joined his unit, July

20, 1918. He was marched out to England for return to Australia on April 21, 1919

and commenced his return to Australia on board HT “Themistocles” on June 12,

1919 and disembarked at Sydney on August 10, 1919 then discharged on

September 18, 1919.240

Blackhall, Walter George Henry Hampshire Private, No.4745 30th Battalion 13th Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Blackhall was an 18 year old single, Shipwright living at Gosford when he

enlisted on November 15, 1916. His next of kin was his mother M. G. Hampshire of

“Gowan Brae on Abbotsford Road at Homebush in Sydney. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A68 “Anchises” on January 24, 1917. He returned to

Australia on June 7, 1918.241

240 Ibid 241 Ibid

56

Blair, Stewart Alexander Private, No.2527 39th Battalion 20th New South Wales Local connection: Tuggerah, NSW Private Blair was an 18 year old single, Clerk from Tuggerah when he enlisted on

August 10, 1916. His next of kin was his father S, Blair of Tuggerah Public School.

He embarked from Melbourne in Victoria on board SS “Zealandic” on October 5,

1918. He returned to Australia on February 19, 1919.242

Blakeley, William Leslie* Lance-Corporal, No.4778 18th Battalion 12th Reinforcements Local connection: Noraville, NSW Lance Corporal Blakeley was from Noraville. He was a 25 year old married Tent and

Tarpaulin maker.243 His enlisted on December 20, 1915 and his next of kin was his

wife Mrs R. Blakeley c/o J. Walton of 67 Styles Terrace on Burwood Rd at Burwood

in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on April 13,

1916. At about 9.30 a.m. he was going over the top from a support trench to support

17th Battalion when a machine gun bullet struck him in the chest going down towards

his stomach. He stayed there until stretcher bearers carried him to the dressing

station at about 10.30 a.m. where he died. He was buried at the Vignacourt

Cemetery in France.244 He served on the Western Front.245

Blundell, Roy Bronsdon Sapper, No.21626 Divisional Signal Companies and Signallers General Local connection: Brooklyn, Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Blundell was born at Brooklyn on the Hawkesbury River. He was an 18 year

old Telephonist when he enlisted on June 16, 1917. His next of kin was his mother

Louis Blundell of Brooklyn. He was still serving in the 19th Infantry Militia and had

242 Ibid 243 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 244 Australian Red Cross 1914, www. awm.gov.au/people/roll-search/wounded_and missing_ 245 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

57

been for twelve months. He embarked from Sydney on board SS “Port Darwin” on

April 30, 1918.246 He returned to Australia on September 22, 1919.247

Boden, William Frank Private, No.40 1st Australian Light Horse Field Ambulance A Squadron Local connection: Hawkesbury Agricultural College, Richmond, NSW Private Boden was a 22 year old single, Motor Mechanic of the Hawkesbury College

at Richmond when he enlisted on August 25, 1914. His next of kin was Ellen Boden

of 179 Inkerman St at Vauxhall, Birmingham in England. He embarked from Sydney

on board HMAT A27 “Southern” on September 23, 1914. He returned to Australia on

October 8, 1918.248

Boekenstein, William Avila Private, No.452 4th Machine Gun Coy 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Catherine Hill Bay, NSW Private Boekenstein was born at Catherine Hill Bay. He was a 21 year old single

Architect when he enlisted on June 19, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Cordelia

Boekenstein of Lambton Rd at New Lambton in Newcastle. He embarked from

Melbourne on HMAT A34 “Persic” on December 22, 1916.249 He returned to

Australia on March 12, 1918.250

Bohringer, Henry Edward^ Private, No. 62693 New Zealand Forces Local connection: Tumbi Umbi, NSW

The Gosford Times of January 19, 1919 reported that: Private Bohringer was from Tumbi Umbi. He was the son of Mr and Mrs P. Bohringer and died from wounds received in active service. He enlisted some months ago with the Canterbury Regiment of the New Zealand forces and was gassed last

246 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 247 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 248 Ibid 249 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 250 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

58

October. On recovering he went back into the firing line and received wounds from which he died on November 12, 1918.251 He is buried in Mont Huon Military Cemetery, Le Treport, Seine-Maritime, France.252

Boorn, William Thomas* Gunner, No.19040 11th Field Artillery Battalion Local connection: Mt Penang [Kariong area], NSW Private Boorn was from Mt. Penang. He was a 19 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted in September 6, 1915. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8

“Argyllshire” on May 11, 1916. On October 22, 1918 he was gassed then he was

killed in action at St. Souplet in France on October 22, 1918 while repairing

telephone lines about ¾ mile from St Souplet at 4 p.m. He was hit in the heart and

died instantly.253 He was buried at the St. Souplet British Cemetery in France.254

Booth, Mart Driver, No.330 7th Australian Light Horse 27th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong, NSW Driver Booth was born at Wyong. He was a 41 year old married Labourer when he

enlisted on March 3, 1917.255 His next of kin was his wife Mrs M. M. Booth of Terera

near Nowra in New South Wales where her husband resided. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A15 “Port Sydney” on May 6, 1917. He returned to Australia

on November 15, 1918.256 Driver Booth deserted from the A. I. F. from the

Holsworthy Camp. He was born at Wyong and was described as being 40 years of

age, 5 feet 5 inches tall, dark complexion, grey hair and hazel eyes and bushman by

trade.257 He died on April 12, 1934 and was buried at Wallsend Cemetery in

Newcastle.258

251 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1919, January, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 252 http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/468564/BOHRINGER,%20HENRY%20EDWARD 253 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 254 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 255 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 256 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 257 Gullick, William Applegate, 1916, Police Gazette, January, 5, p.13, Government Printer of the State of New South Wales, Phillip Street, Sydney 258 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

59

Booth Walter* Private, No.1139 17th Battalion, D Coy Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Booth was a 33 year old residing in Wyong.259 He was a 25 year old single

Engineer when he enlisted on March 3, 1915. His next of kin was his father William

Thomas Booth and his mother was Elizabeth Booth of Wollongong Rd, Arncliffe in

Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A32 “Themistocles” on May 12,

1915. He was killed in action at Hangard Wood in France on April 18, 1918 and was

buried at Bouchoir New British Cemetery in France.260

The following witnesses’ accounts stated that Private Booth was the Company cook.

He was instantly killed by a shell on April 18, 1918 while at work in reserves while

trying to save some dixies [food containers] at about midday at Villers-Bretoneux in

France. He was buried about two yards behind the kitchen alongside an

embankment and a cross was erected. He was described as being 5 feet 11 inches

tall, good looking and clean shaven He was 25 years old and was called Wally.

The following report was written by a Captain of the Battalion stating,

“Killed in Action 18-4-18”

Regarding the late 1139. Pte. Booth. W. of 17th Battn. On the

afternoon of 16th April he was attending to his duties in a

somewhat exposed place a little way about two miles behind

the line, when the enemy commenced shelling the locality and

a piece of shell killed him outright. We buried him in a grave

near where he fell and marked the spot with a cross. Our

Regimental Chaplain Tugwell has the particulars of the exact

locality which is still inside our lines and though it is impossible

for me to procure them at present will do so at the first

opportunity. As to his description. He was of medium height,

light hair and blue eyes and slim build, but I know no other

marks or peculiarities, that may help identify him.

259 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 260 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

60

Boston, William Gunner, No.285 Siege Artillery Brigade Local connection: East Gosford, NSW Gunner Boston was born at East Gosford. He was a 31 year old married Butcher

when he enlisted on June 5, 1915. His wife was W. Boston of 7 Short St at

Darlinghurst in Sydney. On October 10, 1906 he joined the Royal Australian

Garrison Artillery and was still serving when enlisting. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A67 “Orsova” on July 17, 1915.261 He returned to Australia on May 8,

1916.262

Bourne, Austin Claude Private, No. 2070 1st Pioneers, 3rd Reinforcements Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Private Bourne was born at Wollombi. He was a 27 year old married Wheeler when

he enlisted on March 10, 1916. His wife was Margaret Ann Bourne of O’Brien’s

Estate in Cessnock in New South Wales He previously served six months in the

Australian Light Horse before leaving the district. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A46 “Clan McGillivray” on May 3, 1916.263 He served on the Western

Front. He died on May 3, 1918 and is buried at Caestre Military Cemetery.264

Bourne, Oliver Gabriel* Private, No.4735 15th Battalion, 15th Reinforcements, A Coy. Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Private Bourne was born at Wollombi.265 He was a 19 year old single Porter for the

Queensland Government Railways when he enlisted on September 18, 1915. His

next of kin was his sister Kathleen Bourne of Racecourse Rd, Tram Terminus at

Ascot in Brisbane. He embarked from Brisbane on board HMAT A23

261 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 262 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 263 National Archives, 2014, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records 264 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 265 National Archives, 2014, op cit.

61

“Commonwealth” on March 28, 1916.266 He was declared missing on April 11, 1917.

A soldier stated that he saw Private Bourne killed at Bullecourt on the Somme by a

shell. He was advancing with others at the time when he passed the soldier and part

of the same shell hit him. The soldier said he could not tell if Private Bourne was

buried and that Bourne was in A Company.267 His name is recorded on the Villers-

Bretonneux memorial on the Somme in France.268

Bowcock, James Edgar Private, No.1533 Anzac Police Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Private Bowcock was born at Wollombi. He was a 21 year old single, Labourer when

he enlisted on August 3, 1915. His next of kin was his father Timothy Bowcock of

Kincumber. He embarked from Sydney on board SS “Hawkes Bay” on October 23,

1915.269 He returned to Australia on August 2, 1919. His brother was William

Thomas Bowcock.270

Bowcock William Thomas Private, No.1532 1st Australian Light Horse 12th Reinforcements Local connection: Kincumber, NSW Private Bowcock was an 18 year old single, Labourer residing at Kincumber when he

enlisted on August 22, 1915. His next of kin was his brother Robert Bowcock of

Kincumber. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT SS “Hawkes Bay” on

October 23, 1915. He returned to Australia on May 15, 1919. His brother was James

Edgar Bowcock.271

266 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 267 Australian War Memorial, 2014, op cit. 268 http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1458268/BOURNE,%20OLIVER%20GABRIEL 269 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 270 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 271 Ibid

62

Bowen Patrick William Private, No.5338 4th Battalion 17th Reinforcements Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Private Bowen was a 44 year old married Telegraph Linesman from Wollombi when

he enlisted on January 4, 1915. His next of kin was his friend Mrs R. Docherty from

Wollombi. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on April 14,

1916. He returned to Australia on May 4, 1917.272

Bowles, William James Private, No.2840 5th Pioneers 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Bowles was born at Hawkesbury River. He was a 34 year old Engine Driver

when he enlisted on June 19, 1916. His wife was Rose Bowles of Marmion St,

Cottesloe in West Australia. He previously served for two years in the volunteers. He

embarked from Fremantle on board HMAT A16 “Port Melbourne” on October 30,

1916.273 He returned to Australia on December 9, 1918.274 Bowman, Oscar Private, No.6960 2nd Battalion Local connection: Tacoma near Wyong, NSW Private Bowman was a 20 year old single Fisherman residing at Tacoma via Wyong

when he enlisted on November 1, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mrs J.

Newman of Tacoma. He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A24 “Benalla’ on

November 9, 1916. He returned to Australia on November 8, 1918.275

272 Ibid 273 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 274 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 275 Ibid

63

Bowman, William John Christopher Private, No.4069 20th Battalion 10th Reinforcements Local connection: Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Bowman was a 45 year old single, Bush Worker when he enlisted on

November 15, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Mrs M. C. Bowman of Courangra

on the Hawkesbury River. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A67 “Orsova”

on March 11, 1916. He returned to Australia on February 17, 1916.276 The Gosford

Times of November 23, 1916 recorded that there was a fear at the time that Private

Bowman may lose the use of his left arm because of a gunshot wound in the wrist.277

Boyd, Alexander James Private, No.1406 36th Battalion Headquarters Local connection: Catherine Hill Bay, NSW Private Boyd was a 20 year old single Fireman [possibly on colliery boilers] residing

at Catherine Hill Bay when he enlisted on January 6, 1916. His next of kin was his

father Arthur Fullerton Boyd of Catherine Hill Bay. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A72 “Beltana” on May 13, 1916. He was promoted to Sergeant and

records show he was still overseas.278

Boyd, Robert Milroy Walker Trooper, No.6303 1st Australian Light Horse Local connection: Wyong Creek, NSW Private Boyd was born at Wyong Creek. He was a 24 year old single, Horse Trainer

when he enlisted on July 11, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Catherine

Robertson Boyd of Wyong Creek. He was discharged from the army prior to leaving

Australia.279

276 Ibid 277 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 23. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 278 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 279 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

64

Boyd, Samuel Private, No.6799 1st Battalion 22nd Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong Creek, NSW He was a 36 year old Labourer when he enlisted on October 13, 1916. His next of

kin was his father Alexander Boyd from Wyong Creek. He embarked from Sydney on

board “SS Port Nicholson” on November 8, 1916.280 He returned to Australia on

October 31, 1917. The Gosford Times of January 17, 1918 recorded that Private

Boyd was from Yarramalong and a public welcome was given to him when he

returned home from the war.281 The function was held at Trigg’s Hall on Saturday

January 26, 1918, where he was presented with a gold medal inscribed as a token of

esteem from friends and well-wishes.282

Boyd, William John* Private, No.649 Cyclist Battalion, 4th Battalion, 5th Reinforcement, D Company Local connection: Wyong Creek, NSW Private Boyd was born at Wyong Creek and resided at Railway St in Wyong Creek.

He was a 27 year old married Sawmiller when he enlisted on June 2, 1916. His next

of kin was his wife E. M. Boyd of Gowie St at Newtown in Sydney. He embarked

from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic on October 7, 1916. On October 13,

1916 he suffered from mumps. He was killed in action on May 5, 1917 at Bullecourt

in France. He was on a bombing post with ten others when at about 8 o’clock that

night a shell landed right in the post and only two of them survived the others were

killed outright.283

The Gosford Times of January 17, 1918 recorded that twelve months earlier he went

up to enlist, but developed appendicitis and had to undergo an operation in St.

George’s Hospital. William Boyd was one of the Wyong district’s best known sports.

280 Ibid 281 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, January, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 282 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, January, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 283 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.

65

He was the owner of “Ladysmith” and in nine starts won six races, second twice and

third once. In the show ring the mare won five firsts and one second prize.284

Bradley Jock (enlisted under name Smith J.) Private, possibly Smith, James No. 2217 1st Battalion Local connection: Terrigal, NSW According to The Gosford Times of December 17, 1915, Jock Bradley was working

at Terrigal and died of pneumonia on November 1, 1915.285 The article stated: Soon

after the war broke out, Jock Bradley was in the employ of Mr Jack Smith of Terrigal.

He enlisted and went to Egypt and later took part in the landing at Gallipoli where

was wounded, being shot through the muscles of the arm. He was sent to the

hospital and Mr Smith had just received a letter from the military chaplain stating that

Jock (who enlisted under the name of J. Smith), died from pneumonia on November

1, 1915.286 No record of a J. Smith who died on November 1, 1915 has been

located, but Private J. Smith, No. 2217, died on October 29, 1915 at Heliopolis

Military Hospital in Cairo, Egypt of Lobar (on some records given as double)

pneumonia. His AIF record states that he had been previously wounded at Gallipoli

(a bomb wound to the leg) in August 1915.287

If this soldier was Jock Bradley, as J. Smith, at enlistment on April 19, 1915 he was

single, aged 29 years and 6 months, and gave his birthplace as being Belfast,

Antrim, Ireland. His next of kin was listed as Miss Lena Hanlon, of various addresses

in Paddington, NSW. He embarked on HMAT A63 “Karoola” on June 16, 1915. He

was wounded at Gallipoli between August 6-9, 1915 and transferred to Egypt for

hospital care in September. The official AIF record of this soldier is large. Much

correspondence is included which seems to be trying to establish the whereabouts of

Miss Lena Hanlon, and little information about Smith is certain. His official file also

contains several photographs of his grave in Cairo. No next of kin was located and

284 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, October, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 285 Gosford Library, 2013, Local History, www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/library/local_history 286 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, December, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 287 NAA; B2455, SMITH, J

66

medals and memorial plaques unclaimed. 288 If Jock Bradley is J. Smith, who died in

Egypt in October, 1915, he is buried in Cairo War Memorial cemetery.

Bragg, Edmund Allen* Private No.1512 4th Battalion 3rd Reinforcements Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Bragg was a 28 year old widower, Farmer when he enlisted on December

15, 1914. His next of kin was his father W. J. Bragg of Dunil [possibly Dural?] Post

Office near Parramatta in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A49

“Seang Choon” on February 11, 1915.289 He was given twenty-eight days detention

for refusing to obey orders on May 1, 1915 and was killed in action at Gallipoli on

May 19, 1915.290 The Gosford Times of July 2, 1915, under an article titled

“Ourimbah” recorded that Private Edmund A. (Ned) Bragg a well-known local had

been officially reported killed in action at Gallipoli.291 He is buried at the 4th Battalion

parade ground cemetery, Anzac Cove, Turkey.292

Brand, Arthur Welwyn Bombardier, No.25678 5th Divisional Ammunition Column, 4th Reinforcements Local connection: Point Clare, NSW Bombardier Brand was a 20 year old single Boarding-house Keeper of “Welwyn” in

Point Clare when he enlisted on February 1, 1916. His next of kin was his father

William George Brand of “Welwyn” in Point Clare. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A67 “Orsova” on July 29, 1916. He previously served for two years in

the senior cadets.293

The Gosford Times of January 18, 1917 recorded that Corporal Brand wrote to his

parents, Mr and Mrs George Brand of Point Clare from Salisbury Plains in England

288 Ibid 289 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 290 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 291 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, July, 2. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of N.S.W 292 http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/606667/BRAGG,%20EDMUND 293 National Archives, 2013, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records

67

saying that he was well in health and expected to be in the trenches in France before

the letter reached home.294 His brother was Richard Brand.

Mr G. Brand of Leichhardt, late of Point Clare, received word that his son had been

gassed and wounded over in France. A few hours previous to the bad news, Mr

Brand received a cable from London stating that his son was on furlough and in the

best of health.295 He returned to Australia on January 16, 1919.296

Brebner, Charles Walter 2nd Lieutenant, 53rd Battalion 5th Reinforcements Local connection: Richmond, NSW 2nd Lieutenant Brebner was a 33 year old married Electrical and Mechanical

Engineer from Richmond when he enlisted on October 1, 1915. His next of kin was

his wife Viola Edna Brebner of “Winchester” at Kingswood Avenue in Willoughby in

Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A47 “Mashobra” on September

14, 1916. He returned to Australia on July 16, 1917.297

Bremmell, Andrew Private 23, 1st Australian Light Horse A Squadron Local connection: Richmond, NSW Private Bremmell was a 26 year old single Miner from Moray St at Richmond when

he enlisted on August 24, 1914. His next of kin was his brother S. P. Bremmell of

Moray St at Richmond. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A27 “Southern”

on September 23, 1914. He returned to Australian on April 13, 1919.298

294 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, January, 18. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 295 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, June, 13. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 296 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 297 Ibid 298 Ibid

68

Brennan, John Vivian Gunner, No.612 36th Heavy Artillery Brigade Local connection: Brooklyn, Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Brennan was a 21 year old married Fireman residing at Brooklands

[Brooklyn] on the Hawkesbury River. His next of kin was his wife Elsie of Brooklyn on

the Hawkesbury River. He previously served with the Royal Australian Garrison

Artillery. He embarked from Sydney on board RMS “Osterley” on January 15, 1916.

He returned to Australia on June 12, 1919.299

Brennan, Robert Joseph^ Private, No.3191 30th Battalion 7th Reinforcements Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Private Brennan was a 41 year old single Farrier from Wollombi when he enlisted on

September 5, 1915. His next of kin was Mrs Lucy Roberts from Wollombi. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A20 “Horoata” on May 2, 1916. He died of

wounds on April 13, 1917 and was was buried at the St. Sever Cemetery Extension

in France.300

Brett, George Neville Driver, No.46 1st Australian Light Horse Field Ambulance A Squadron Local connection: Hawkesbury Agricultural College, Richmond, NSW Driver Brett was a 20 year old single, Student of the Hawkesbury College at

Richmond

when he enlisted on August 24, 1914. His next of kin was George Brett of

Normanton in Queensland. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A27

“Southern” September 23, 1914. He returned to Australia on November 15, 1918.301

299 Ibid 300 Ibid 301 Ibid

69

Bridge, Archibald Private, No.89473 Depot Local connection: Dooralong, NSW Private Bridge was born at Dooralong. He was a 19 year old Set Worker when he

enlisted. His next of kin was his father George Bridge of Dooralong. His attestation

paper was cancelled because he was aged 17 years and 8 months and was

underage.302

Bridge, Benjamin Thomas Private, No.2339 2nd Machine Gun Battalion Local connections: Wyong and Yarramalong, NSW Private Bridge was born at Wyong. He was a 22 year old single, Fireman when he

enlisted on July 19, 1915. His next of kin was his father Benjamin Henry Bridge of

Yarramalong. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A32 “Themistocles” on

October 5, 1915.303 He returned to Australia on April 13, 1919.304

Bridge Clarence Private, No.6962 4th Battalion 23rd Reinforcements Local connections: Wyong and Yarramalong, NSW Private Bridge was born at Yarramalong. He was a 27 year old single, Bushman

when he enlisted on October 3, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Catherine

Bridge of Dooralong. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A29 “Suevic” on

November 11, 1916.305

The Gosford Times of November 2, 1916 recorded that Private Bridge was from

Dooralong and enlisted a short time earlier and was home on his final leave. He was

at Broadmeadow Camp for a few days then into Liverpool Encampment during the

302 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 303 Ibid 304 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 305 National Archives, 2014, op cit.

70

week. He was to receive a send-off at the local hall.306 The Gosford Times of

October 25, 1917 reported that Mr George Bridge was notified the previous week

that his son was wounded in action in France and was sent to hospital in England.

He had enlisted twelve months previously.307 In the Gosford times of January 24,

1918, it was stated that Mr Bridge he had also received word the previous week that

his son had been invalided home. In a letter received by his mother only a few weeks

previously, he mentioned that he was discharged from the hospital and expected

soon to return to France.308

The Gosford Times of February 21, 1918 recorded that Private Bridge arrived home

on Friday December 20, 1917. He was wounded in action in France some months

ago and was sent to hospital in England.309 The Gosford Times of March 7, 1918

reported that a meeting was held at the local hall in Dooralong on Thursday the

previous week and decided to arrange for a welcome home for Private Bridge, who

was still in hospital in Sydney. It was understood that the welcome home was to take

place on the coming Friday night at the local hall if Private Bridge was well enough to

be present on the occasion.310

The Gosford Times of March 14, 1918 reported that: The welcome home took place

on Saturday night. It had previously been arranged to take place on a Friday night,

so as to permit, at the request of the young men, of an all-night dance. Presuming

that the announcement of its being held on the Friday night was correct, some young

lady visitors over the mountain from Yarramalong in the evening, only to find

themselves disappointed. They didn’t forget to hurl reproaches at the newspaper for

its stupidity in saying Friday instead of Saturday, but hoped for their forgiveness

when they read the explanation. It appeared that Private Bridge who was in hospital

306 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 2. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 307 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, October, 25. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 308 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, January, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 309 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, February, 21. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 310 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, March, 7. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

71

could only get leave for Saturday night and it was not known till pretty late in the

week that he could not come till Saturday.

A large crowd, perhaps the very largest that ever assembled at the Dooralong Hall

was there on Saturday night to honour Private Clarence Bridge. Dancing was

commenced at an early hour and was continued till 10 o’clock, when refreshments

were served on a truly lavish scale. After luncheon, Mr MacKimm delivered an

address. It was later noted by Mr Frank Hall that it was the best address ever

delivered in the hall and the finest that he had ever listen to. Later on dancing was

resumed and during the interval between dances, songs were interspersed.

Little Miss Boyd, niece of Mrs Labe Bridge, rendered one or two songs creditably for

a child of her years. A noticeable feature of the gathering was the preponderating

number of young men present and it was pleasing to reflect that it was not the

magnetic attraction of a dancer, but the desire to honour Private Bridge that brought

them there. Mr Walter Martin carried out the duties of Master of Ceremony to the

satisfaction of all and Miss Brown, of Jilliby, was the pianist. At about 12 o’clock the

National Anthem was rendered. It remained to say that the hall was tastefully

decorated with palms, a work carried out; it was understood, under the directions of

Mr Hitchcock. Private Bridge spent Sunday evening with Mr J. Edwards and family

and on Monday morning took his departure for Sydney.311 The Gosford Times of

April 4, 1918 recorded that: He came home for the Easter holidays and was getting

his discharge papers soon.312

Bridge, Joseph Trooper, No.1596 1st Australian Light Horse, 12th Reinforcement Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Trooper Bridge was born at Wollombi. He was a 25 year old single, Labourer when

he enlisted on August 14, 1915. His next of kin was his cousin Mrs Violet White of

Maitland. He was fined five shillings (5/-) and forfeited one day’s pay for being

311 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, March, 14. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 312 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, April, 4. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

72

absent from duty on January 21, 1916. He was also fined one pound (£1) and given

fifteen minutes drill after each parade for a week for disobedience.313

The Police Gazette record that Trooper Bridge was born at Wollombi. He deserted

the Australian Imperial Forces in 1916 and was described as being 25 years of age,

5 feet 10 inches tall, dark complexion, brown hair and eyes, with a scar around the

neck.314

Bridgett, Cecil Edwin Private, No.2808 7th Australian Light Horse 19th Reinforcements Local connection: Dora Creek, NSW Private Bridgett was a 22 year old single, Commercial Traveller residing at Dora

Creek when he enlisted on August 25, 1915. His next of kin was his father Irwin

George Bridgett of 52 Bayswater Rd at Darlinghurst in Sydney. He embarked from

Sydney on board RMS “Mongolia” July 8, 1916. He returned to Australia on July 26,

1919.315

Briscoe, Alfred Edward. Mentioned in Despatches Private, No.4370 20th Battalion 11th Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Briscoe was a 28 year old married Miner residing at Holden St, in Gosford

when he enlisted on October 30, 1915. His next of kin was his wife C. T. B. Briscoe

of Holden St in Gosford. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A71 “Nestor” on

April 9, 1916. He was awarded a Mentioned in Dispatches (MID) as per

“Commonwealth Gazette” No. 61, May 23, 1919. He returned to Australia July 1,

1919.316

313 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 314 Gullick, William Applegate, 1916, Police Gazette, August, 30, p.435, Government Printer of the State of New South Wales, Phillip Street, Sydney 315 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit 316 Ibid

73

Britten, Charles Roy. Mentioned in Despatches. Private, No.2874 56th Battalion 7th Reinforcements Local connection: Hawkesbury, NSW Private Britten was born at Hawkesbury. He was an 18 year old single, Student when

he enlisted on May 24, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mary Ann Britten of

Mudgee in New South Wales He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A11

“Ascanius” on October 25, 1916.317 He returned to Australia on February 19,

1919.318 He was awarded a Mention in Despatched (MID) as per “Commonwealth

Gazette” No.61, May 23, 1919. He returned to Australia on July 1, 1919. He served

on the Western Front.319

Broad, George Henry Private No.5660 4th Battalion 18th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Broad was a 19 year old Hotel Useful at Windsor when he enlisted on

February 6, 1916. His next of kin was his father H. Broad of Kooringaburra in South

Australia. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A55 “Kyarra” on June 3, 1916.

He returned to Australia on March 16, 1919.320

Bromley, Cecil George Private, No.94769 Depot Local connection: Erina, NSW Private Bromley was born at Erina. He was an 18 year old single, Orchardist when

he enlisted on September 23, 1918 and was discharged on October 8, 1918. His

next of kin was his father Andrew Bromley of Erina. He previously served four years

in the cadets. He was discharged on December 31, 1918, at the end of his period of

enlistment.321

317 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 318 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 319 Ibid 320 Ibid 321 National Archives, 2014, op cit.

74

Bromley, Frederick Ernest Private, No.3259 4th Battalion, 13th Reinforcements Local connections: Gosford and Erina, NSW Private Bromley was born at Gosford. He was a 23 year old single, Bushman when

he enlisted on August 24, 1915. His next of kin was his father Andrew Bromley and

his mother was Amy Bromley both of Erina. He resided with his parents322 He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A60 “Aeneas” on December 20, 1915.323 He

returned to Australia on March 28, 1919.324

Brooker, Milton Amos Private, No.60179 1st Battalion 16th Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Brooker was a 19 year old single, Auctioneer residing at Gosford when he

enlisted on April 8, 1918. His next of kin was his father S. A. Brooker of Gosford. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A41 “Bakara” on September 4, 1918. He

returned to Australia on July 23, 1919.325

Brooks, Charles# Private, No.2279 34th Battalion 4th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyee, NSW Private Brooks was a 32 year old single, Fettler from Wyee when he enlisted on July

19, 1916. His next of kin was his father Edward Brooks and his mother was Margaret

Brooks of 51 Westley Street at Princes Park, Liverpool in England. He embarked

from Sydney on board HMAT A30 “Borda” on October 17, 1916. He died of disease

on February 7, 1917 and was buried at Allerton Cemetery at Lancashire in

England.326 The Gosford Times of September 8, 1916 recorded that prior to enlisting

322 Ibid 323 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 324 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 325 Ibid 326 Ibid

75

Brooks was employed in the Permanent Way Branch of the Railway Department at

Wyee.327

Brooks, Edwin Private, No.1379 Australian Light Horse 6th Regiment 11th Reinforcement Local connection: Point Clare, NSW Private Brooks was a 22 year old single, Farmer when he enlisted on September 7,

1915. His next of kin was his mother Barbara Brooks of 37 Brighton St at Petersham

in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board SS “Hawkes Bay” on October 23,

1915.328

The Gosford Times of October 22, 1915 recorded that Private Brooks from Point

Clare was farewelled and was presented with a sheep skin vest, which was

subsequently forwarded to him at camp.329 He returned to Australia on April 21,

1918.330

With regard to Private Brooks’ return to the district, The Gosford Times of June 20,

1918 reported: On the Monday evening he was entertained along with other returned

soldiers at a social at the School of Arts. The social was organised by the Girls’

Patriotic Society and the hall was crowded to the doors, many being unable to obtain

admission and when they did a good number had to stand, all the seating

accommodation being monopolised. The chair was occupied by Mr F. A. Stayner in

the absence of the Shire President, Mr F. R. Archbold, who had met with an accident

that morning.

Proceedings commenced with the National Anthem, after which a musical

programme was rendered, contributed to by Mrs F. Cohen, Mrs F. Wheeler, Mrs E.

K. White, Miss Zoe Mason, Miss Dawes, Mr A. Harvey, Mr Greaves and Baby

Dawes. The Chairman congratulated the returned lads upon the safe arrival and

welcomed them on behalf of the townspeople and residents of the district. He

327 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, September, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 328 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 329 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, October, 22. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 330 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

76

sincerely hoped that the returned lads would live long enough to enjoy what a

grateful country was duty bound to give them.

After the war he said the most pitiful man in the community would be the eligible man

who had lost his opportunity to try and find an excuse to satisfy his conscience, the

conscience that made cowards of us all, why he had failed to respond to his

country’s call. Mr H. L. Whittell hoped that the time was not far distant when the

sword would be turned into plough shares. That was what these returned boys had

been fighting for and what other eligible men should be doing also. He thanked the

returned heroes for what they had done for their King and country, deeds that would

not be forgotten.

Rev. S. Wedge, in the name of the Methodist Church, welcomed the boys home and

hoped that having played their part in the world’s fearful drama they would live long

to enjoy the respect of the community and the gratitude of the people they had

fought for. Mr C. Peck, former master at Gosford Public School, said he came there

especially that night to pay homage to the soldier lads who had returned from the

war. They had gone voluntarily when the Empire called and the country was proud of

them, thousands of other men should and would have gone if the woman folks had

refused to allow eligible men to become shirkers.

He was proud that another Gosford lad had won military distinction, nevertheless

every man who said to his Government, “Take me,” was equally a hero even though

he never reached the firing line. Mr Peck concluded his remarks by complimenting

the ladies of Gosford upon the fine decorations and splendid manner in which the

arrangements for the evening had been carried out. Bombardier Guerin responded

on behalf of his comrades. He thanked the citizens for their royal welcome and for

the medals presented to them. He thanked the Girls’ Patriotic Society and Red Cross

for their parcels and cheery letters which had been a wonderful comfort to the boys

over yonder.

Like his comrades he was pleased to be back in Australia. They had travelled far

during the past few years, but there was no place like home. Australia, the finest

country in the world, with the finest people and the finest girls he said. Private

77

Anthony, a returned man, also addressed the people and appealed to the eligible

men to enlist. He had attended a send-off at Ourimbah on Saturday night, where the

recruits were mere lads. They did not want boys. It was men who were able to carry

a ninety-six pound pack that was needed.

Reinforcements were wanted now more than ever, men who would voluntarily offer

to go over to France to help their brother Australians who were sorely in need of a

spell. He had two and a half years’ service, but was going back to help his mates

because they were dinkums. There were thousands of dinkums still in Australia if

only they would here the call. Cheers were given for the returned lads and the boys

at the front after which Auld Lang Syne and the National Anthem were sung. Then

refreshments were served and a dance was held until midnight.331

Broue, Adalbert Gurwood Gunner, No.1467 36th Heavy Artillery Group 19th Reinforcements Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Gunner Broue was an 18 year old single, Soldier from Ourimbah when he enlisted

on May 14, 1918. His next of kin was his father A. E. Broue of the “Civic Club” at Pitt

St in Sydney. He previously served with the Royal Australian Garrison Artillery. He

embarked form Sydney on board HMAT A30 “Borda” on July 17, 1918. He returned

to Australia on July 22, 1919.332

Brown, Alfred* Private, No.2765 19th Battalion 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Brown was born at Wyong. He was a 20 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on April 18, 1915. His next of kin was his father Charles Brown of 53 Pine St

331 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, June, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 332 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

78

in Sydney. He previously served two years in 16th Infantry Militia. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on November 2, 1915.333

On July 27, 1916, Private Brown was killed in the trenches by a shell at Pozieres. A

piece struck him in the face and another piece in the side. He was killed outright.

Another soldier went to apply a dressing to his wound and found that he had died.

He was described as being 21-22 years of age, fairly tall and dark. Another report

stated that his body was never found. He has no known grave.334 Private Alfred

Brown is commemorated on the Villers-Bretonneaux Memorial on The Somme in

France.335

Brown, Charles Clarence Private, No.3705 3rd Battalion 12th Reinforcements Local connection: Lisarow, NSW Private Brown was a 20 year old single, Driver residing at Lisarow when he enlisted

on August 23, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Mrs E. Brown of Lisarow. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A7 “Medic” on December 30, 1915. He

served on the Western Front and returned to Australia on April 5, 1917.336

Brown, Charles Frederick Private, No.4135 5th Pioneer Regiment Local connection: Gosford and Brooklyn, Hawkesbury River NSW Private Brown was born at Gosford. He was a 21 year old single, Motor Mechanic

when he enlisted on September 11, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Caroline

Brown of the Brooklyn Post Office at Hawkesbury River. He previously served two

years in the Australian Riffles Regiment (A.R.R.) militia. He embarked from Sydney

on board HMAT A60 “Aeneas” on December 20, 1915.337

333 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 334 Australian War Memorial, 2014, op cit. 335 http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1458474/BROWN,%20ALFRED 336 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 337 National Archives, 2014, op cit.

79

The Gosford Times of June 6, 1918 recorded that: quite an eager crowd awaited the

arrival of the 9.20 train on Saturday night as Private Brown; the first of the Lisarow

boys to return from the front was expected by that train. As Private Brown stepped

from the carriage he was greeted with hearty cheers and the singing of “For He’s a

Jolly Good Fellow.” He would have been well pleased with the warmth of the

reception he received. Private Brown, who it was said was a fine type of young

Australian, had been away from Lisarow for two years. He was eighteen months in

the firing line and received several bullet wounds.

Being advised by the doctor to have his arm amputated, he said he was not

prepared to part with it, for which he was thankful as he had good hopes of being

able to regain the use of it. Private Brown spoke in the highest terms of the treatment

he received in the hospitals, both in England and France and expressed his

satisfaction at being back in Lisarow. A public welcome was to be tendered to him by

the residents of Lisarow on June 15.338

In an another article published in The Gosford Times of June 20, 1918, a very

pleasant function was held on Saturday afternoon last in Mr Howard’s packing shed

when a welcome home tea was tendered to Private Brown, who recently returned

from the front. The building was nicely decorated with flags and so on, the work of

the ladies and members of the Progress Association. Rev. E. H. Walker, who was

also a returned soldier, occupied the chair and proceedings opened with the National

Anthem. After grace had been said, the good things provided were enjoyed by all. Mr

Walker said he was always glad to welcome a soldier home, for he knew what it was

like on the other side.

Private Brown had been away for two and half years and had some strenuous

experiences, so he would appreciate being back in Australia again. Mr A. Eden

M.L.A. said he was proud to be able to join in honouring the returned soldier. His

speech was brief as he had to attend a similar function in Toronto that night. The

chairman had spoken of home and country. Only those who were far from the land of

their birth fully realised how much the words meant. He loved his home and he loved

338 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, June, 6. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

80

his country. Even the sands of the hills were dear to him. How he longed to see the

old home and but for the war might have been able to visit it. The word home

brought back memories of a mother’s love and care and boyhood scrapes, and he

always managed to get into plenty.

Mr Eden, than asked Private Brown to step forward and on the behalf of the

residents of Lisarow presented him with an inscribed gold medal. Private Brown, in a

few heartfelt words, thanked the people of Lisarow for their welcome and good

wishes. Mr Archbold then made a stirring appeal for generous treatment for returned

men. That day he had received a letter from Mr Orchard, Minister for Recruiting,

thanking him for the number of recruits the Erina Shire had produced and asking him

to put forward still greater efforts. He was proud to welcome Private Brown and

thanked him in the name of King and country. Miss Ida Clifton effectively rendered a

recitation of “The Good Old Flag.”

The Chairman then called upon Sergeant Forrest to speak. The Sergeant referred to

his experiences in Gallipoli and France. He said it was only when he went away and

saw other lands that we could appreciate Australia first. Australia he said was the

finest country on God’s earth and he realised it best when he sailed into Sydney

harbour at sunrise upon his return to Sydney. He made a strong appeal to any man

who could go to do so at the earliest moment. He had seen sights in France and

Belgium and he knew Private Brown had seen the same, which could not be told to a

mixed audience.

If the Germans got to Australia our wives, mothers and sisters would be better dead.

He said he did not know if there were any there that afternoon who were eligible, but

their conscience would tell them whether their place was here or at the front. Great

praise was due to the ladies who carried out all arrangements so admirably. A vote

of thanks to the chairman was carried by acclamation. Cheers for Private Brown and

the boys at the front brought a pleasant evening to a close.339

339 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, June, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W

81

In The Gosford Times of August 15, 1918, word was received that Private Brown,

who was under special treatment for his wounded arm, was making good progress

and had every prospect of recovering almost the full use of it again.340 Private Brown

returned to Australia on the HMAT “Port Sydney” on November 13, 1919.341

Brown, Edwin James Harold Private, No.1512 33rd Battalion Headquarters Local connection: Martinsville, NSW Private Brown was a 19 year old single, Miner when he enlisted on February 1,

1916. His next of kin was James A. Brown of Gilgai Rd at Inverell in New South

Wales. He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A74 “Marathon” on May 4, 1916.342

The Gosford Times of November 9, 1916 recorded that Private Brown was from

Martinsville and a send-off for him was given in the local hall on Wednesday night.

He was on his final leave prior to his departure for the front. Dancing was indulged in

until the break of day. After supper, Mr Charles Pointer (President) spoke of his

departure and called upon Mrs Patrick Martin who, on behalf of the ladies, presented

him with a safety razor. Mr F. W. Kidd, who also presented him with a combination

jack knife and tin opener, hoped that good use of the presents and that he would

have a better reception on his return home and that peace would soon be declared.

The gathering was representative of the whole district.343 He returned to Australia on

June 12, 1919.344

340 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, August, 15. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 341 NAA; B2455, BROWN, C F 342 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 343 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 9. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 344 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

82

Brown, Ernest Albert Private, No.2274 31st Battalion 4th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyee, NSW Private Brown was born at Wyee. He was a 19 year old single, Clerk when he

enlisted on December 4, 1915. His next of kin was his father William Brown of

“Bungalow” in Tudor St, Hamilton in New South Wales. He previously served twelve

months in the 16th Infantry Militia in Newcastle. He embarked from Melbourne on

HMAT A68 “Anchises” on March 14, 1916.345 Private Brown returned to Australia on

HMAT “Balmoral Castle” on March 28, 1918.

Brown, Garnet Wollesley* 2nd Lieutenant 2nd Battalion G Company Local connection: Gosford, NSW Lieutenant Brown was a 24 year old single, Accountant at the City Bank of Sydney

and residing at Pollock Avenue at Gosford when he enlisted on August 25., 1914.

His next of kin was his father W. D. Brown and his mother was Emily Brown of

“Claroma” at Pine Street, Randwick in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A23 “Suffolk” on October 18, 1914. He was killed in action at Gallipoli on

August 6-8, 1915. He has no known grave and is commemorated at the Lone Pine

Cemetery at Gallipoli.346

Brown, Harold Henry* Private, No.425 20th Battalion 14th Reinforcements Local connection: Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Brown was a 19 year old single, Engineer residing at Hawkesbury River

when he enlisted on May 7, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Caroline Brown of

the Hawkesbury River. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A18 “Wiltshire”

on August 22, 1916.

345 National Archives, 2013, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records 346 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

83

The Gosford Times of July 14, 1916 recorded that at a social tendered at the time of

his departure for the second time to the front on Friday night was well attended

although the usual prices were charged for admission. At 10 p.m. the hero was

presented with a gold wristlet watch and a set of pipes by Mr W. H. Wood who also

acted as the chairman of the arranging committee on behalf of the citizens of

Brooklyn. The presentation was supported by Mr J. Shea, Mr W. Matthews and Mr

W. J. Johnson. The ladies had a supply of scones, tea, cakes and coffee on hand

and the gathering did more than sample the collection. Dancing was indulged in until

the wee small hours of the morning.347 After returning to Europe Private Brown was

killed in action on October 4, 1917 at Zonnebeke and is buried at Aeroplane

Cemetery, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.348

Brown, Marshall Private, No.7844 3rd Battalion 26th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Brown was a 29 year old single, Farmer from Windsor when he enlisted on

December 1, 1917. His next of kin was his father C. J. Brown of Cornwallis at

Windsor. He embarked from Melbourne in Victoria on board HMAT A71 “Nestor” on

February 28, 1918. He returned to Australia on December 12, 1918.349

Browne, Wallace James Signaller, No.1060 34th Battalion D Company Local connection: Woy Woy, NSW Private Browne was a 21 year old married Labourer when he enlisted on January 3,

1916. His next of kin was his wife Lily May Browne of Dusodie via Dungog. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A20 “Hororata” on May 2, 1916.350

347 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, July, 14. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 348 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 349 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 350 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

84

The Gosford Times of July 26, 1917 recorded that Signaller Browne was from Woy

Woy and the only son of Mr and Mrs W. J. Browne of “Patonga” [Guesthouse] in

Woy Woy. He was shot through the neck and also contacted pleurisy, but a cable

was sent saying that he was improving.351 He was later promoted to the rank of an

officer in the Flying Corps.352 He returned to Australia on May 6, 1919.353

Bryant, Frederick John Private, No.3214 17th Battalion 7th Reinforcements Local connection: Lisarow, NSW Private Bryant was a 26 year old Tram Conductor from Lisarow when he enlisted on

August 19, 1915 His next of kin was his wife L. F. Bryant from Lisarow. He embarked

from Sydney on board HMAT A29 “Suevic” on December 20, 1915. He returned to

Australia on HMAT “Argyllshire” on December 9, 1918.354

Buckley, Albert Vincent Private, No.2441 Divisional Ammunition Column Section 1 Local connection: Dora Creek, NSW Private Buckley was born at Dora Creek. He was a 35 year old railway Night Officer

when he enlisted on August 27, 1914. His next of kin was his mother Mrs John

Buckley of Fitzroy St at Carrington St in Newcastle. Then she moved to c/o of Mrs

Law of “Lynhurst” 10 John St at Leichardt in Sydney. He previously served in the 6th

Australian Rifle Regiment (A.A.R.) and 1st Kitchener’s Horse in South Australia and

time expired and 3rd Mounted Rifles time expired. He embarked from Melbourne on

HMAT A8 “Argyllshire” on October 18, 1914.355 He returned to Australia on

September 15, 1918.356

351 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, July, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 352 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, December, 13. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 353 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 354 Ibid 355 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 356 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

85

Buckley, John Joseph (Jack)* Private, No.3122 53rd Battalion 8th Reinforcement Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Jack Buckley, the eldest son of Mr J. Buckley, Gosford’s Postmaster

enlisted.357 He was an 18 year old single, Postal Worker when he enlisted on

September 18, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Mary Ann Buckley of

Gosford Post Office. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A29 “Suevic” on

November 11, 1916. He was killed in action by a machine gun burst to the head on

September 1, 1918 at Peronne in France.358 He was buried in the Peronne

Communal Cemetery. He served at the Western Front.359

The Gosford Times of October3, 1918 recorded that feelings of deep sympathy were

expressed to Mr and Mrs John Buckley and family of Gosford Post Office on the sad

news conveyed to them by Rev. Father Kelly on Friday evening last that their son

and brother, Private Buckley had been killed in action on September 1, 1918. The

deceased soldier had just attained his 20th birthday. He was born at Parkes and

educated by the Marist Brothers, West Maitland, joining the Postal Department five

years earlier. Enlisting in September, 1916, he sailed for the war in November and

was transferred to France about seventeen months earlier where he remained on

active service up to the time of his death. A fine athlete and crack rifle shot, he was

selected for the dangerous post of sniper and also served as a scout. No particulars

at the time were on hand as to the manner of his death, the cable simply advising

that he had been killed in action.

Jack was a splendid young man, a loving and dutiful son, a fond and affectionate

brother, according to the local paper. In his letters home, he told of the fearfulness of

the battlefield, how hundreds of times he had escaped while death grasped its

victims all around and expressed the firm conviction that he would never again see

Australia or the faces of those at home whom he loved, a prophesy that was only too

sadly fulfilled. Prior to going to the war the deceased soldier lad acted on the

357 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, September, 29. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 358 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 359 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

86

relieving staff at Morpeth, Gosford, Wyong, Wiseman’s Ferry and Stockton and was

attached to Nymagee Post Office as postal assistance.360

Buckton, Richard George* Private, No.6954 4th Battalion, 23rd Reinforcement Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Buckton was born at Wyong. He was a 24 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on October 7, 1916 His next of kin was his mother Mrs M. E. Buckton of

Wyong. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A29 “Seuvic” on November 11,

1916. He was killed in action on October 4, 1917 and has no known grave. His name

appears on the Menin Gate memorial.361

Burdon, William Private, No.6615 8th Field Ambulance Section A Local connection: Rabbit Island hospital, Lower Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Burdon was a 25 year old Hospital Attendant residing at Rabbit Island on the

Hawkesbury River when he enlisted on May 25, 1915. His next of kin was his sister

Sage Burdon, c/o Mrs Leslie Mason of Rural Route No 1 at Agincourt Post Office in

Ontario, Canada. Records were unable to determine where or when he embarked

from. He returned to Australia on HMAT “Karoola” as nursing staff on May 6,

1919.362

Burns, Alfred Thomas Private, No.14017 24th Army Service Corps Reinforcements Local connection: Brooklyn, Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Burns was a 23 year old single, Baker a resident at Brooklyn on the

Hawkesbury River when he enlisted on October 18, 1916. His next of kin was his

brother William Richard Burns of Marine St at Tamworth in New South Wales. He

360 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, October 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 361 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 362 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

87

embarked from Melbourne in Victoria on board HMAT A9 “Shropshire” on May 11,

1917. He returned to Australia on July 8, 1919.363

Burns, John James Private, No.6001 11th Battalion, 19th Reinforcements Local connections: Gosford and Kincumber, NSW Private Burns was born at Gosford. He was a 39 year old single, Sleeper Cutter

when he enlisted March 10, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Elizabeth Burns of

Kincumber. He embarked from Fremantle on board HMAT A28 “Miltiades” on August

7, 1916.364

A report from a Lance-Corporal stated that while they were holding a trench in the

Hindenburg line he saw Private Burns killed on the spot by a bullet. It hit him in the

chest. When they were relieved his body was still there of cause. It was very hot at

the time and one could do nothing. Private Burns was a 19th Reinforcement. He was

described as being short and thick set and had grey hair.

Private Burns was declared missing on April 16, 1917 than it became known that he

had become a prisoner of war and was interned at Wahn, Limburg in Germany. In a

postcard he had sent to a friend on June 10, 1917 he said “Hoping this finds you in

good health as it leaves me at present.” From another prison of war camp at

Friedrichfeld in Germany an extract from a postcard received on April 4, 1918 he

said “I have not received any parcels for three months now. Have only received six

parcels all told, but they may come along some day. I am quite well.” He was

repatriated to Dover, England arriving on March, 18, 1918.365 He returned to

Australia on March 5, 1919.366

363 Ibid 364 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 365 Australian War Memorial, 2014, op cit. 366 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au

88

Burns, Ralph Whitely* Private, No.5343 13th Battalion 17th Reinforcements Local connection: Mangrove Mountain, NSW Private Burns was from Mangrove Mountain. He was an 18 year old single, Farm

Hand and he was with the “Kangaroo” route march when he enlisted on December 8,

1915. His next of kin was his mother Mrs M. Burns of “Glenbrae at Moruya in New

South Wales. Later her address was recorded as “Yarula”, PO Box 7, Mangrove

Mountain, Gosford NSW. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A71 “Nestor”

on April 9. 1915. He was killed in action at Pozieres in France on July 8, 1916 and

has no known grave367 His name is recorded on the Villers-Bretonneaux memorial

on the Somme in France. 368

Burrows, Arthur Edward Private, No.6235 3rd Battalion 30th Reinforcements Local connection: Lisarow, NSW Private Burrows was a 29 year old married Assistant Surveyor from Lisarow when he

enlisted on March 13, 1916. His next of kin was his wife M. F. Burrows from Lisarow.

He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on September 9, 1916.

He returned to Australia on May 3, 1919.

Burt, George Patterson Private, No.3944 1st Pioneer Battalion 10th Reinforcements Private Burt was a 30 year old single, [railway] Fettler residing on the Hawkesbury

River when he enlisted on November 22, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Sarah

Amy Burt of Yokes St at Brookstown in Wallsend, New South Wales. He embarked

from Sydney on board HMAT A68 “Anchises” on January 24, 1917.369 He returned to

Australia on HMAT “Nestor” on May 25, 1919.

367 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 368 http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1458666/BURNS,%20RALPH%20WHITELEY 369 Ibid

89

Burton, Charles Hector Private, No.2344 17th Battalion 5th Reinforcements Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Private Burton was born at Wollombi. He was a 22 year old single, Labourer when

he enlisted on July 21, 1915 and resided at Yaco Creek via Wollombi, His next of kin

was his aunt Mrs Annie Gibson of Hamilton in Newcastle. He embarked from Sydney

on board HMAT A32 “Themistocles” on October 5, 1915. He returned to Australia on

HMAT “Port Macquarie” on March 26, 1919.370

Busch, Jules Adolph Private, No.3511 30th Battalion 8th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Busch was a 19 year old single, Coach Driver from Macquarie St, at Windsor

when he enlisted on March 25, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Sarah Elizabeth

Busch of Macquarie St, at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A70

“Ballarat. He returned to Australia on January 15, 1919.371

Bushell, Archibald Ernest* Sergeant-Major, No. 2526 36th Battalion, 4th Reinforcements Local connection: Peats Ridge, NSW Sergeant-Major Bushell was from Popran Park via Peats Ridge. He was a 26 year

old Engineer when he enlisted on April 26, 1916. His parents were Jacob and Maria

Bushell of Popran Park via Peats Ridge. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT

A24 “Benalla” on November 9, 1916.372

He was killed in action on June 11, 1917. The Battalion was holding the line at

Messines and sometime during the day while he was at a Lewis gun he was killed

outright by shell fire. A witness stated that he was about five yards away in the next

bay of the trench and saw the explosion and immediately afterwards seeing where

370 Ibid 371 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, , op cit. 372 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit..

90

Sergeant-Major Bushell had fallen. The Battalion came out of the trench soon

afterwards and Bushell was left for the time being where he had fallen. He was

described as being about 5 feet 9-10 inches tall, heavy build, rather red hair and was

about 24 years old.

The Gosford Times of July 12, 1917 recorded that the sad news was received on

Friday that Sergeant-Major Bushell had been killed in action June 11, 1917. The

news came as a shock seeing that this gallant young son of Mangrove Mountain had

only recently gone into the firing line after having been instructing at Salisbury Plains

in England for some time and having gained some commendation for success and

practice. He was the second son of Councillor Jacob Bushell of “Propran Park”,

Gosford and was 26 years of age. The Late Sergeant-Major Bushell received his first

training in military evolutions under Major Cowlishaw and Lieutenant Winterbottom in

the Mangrove Mountain Volunteer Corps, of which fifty per cent enlisted.

He was a fine type of young Australian, a worthy son of worthy parents and his

ultimate end was sincerely regretted. The news was broken to the family on Friday

evening by Canon McDonnell and on Sunday the Cannon held service with the

family. A number of neighbours called to express their sympathy to the bereaved,

Rev. C. B. Elwin being among them. Mrs Bushell was away in Brisbane with family

and friends endeavouring to recuperate failing health and the shock will be a severe

one to the mother who idolised her soldier son.373

Butler, Geoffrey Ernest Albert Private, No.3354 1st Australian Light Horse 28th Reinforcements Local connection: Wisemans Ferry, NSW Private Butler was born at Wiseman’s Ferry. He was a 44 year old married Storeman

when he enlisted on April 4, 1917. His wife was Cecilia Butler of Young St at Neutral

Bay in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A17 “Port Lincoln” on

June 11, 1917.374 He returned to Australia on February 18, 1919.375

373 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, July, 12. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 374 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

91

Butler, Victor George^ Private, No.1976 53rd Battalion Local connection: Wisemans Ferry, NSW Private Butler was born at Wiseman’s Ferry He was a 35 year old single, Jackaroo

when he enlisted on March 1, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Butler of

Moree in New South Wales. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A15 “Port

Sydney” on September 4, 1916.376 He served on the Western Front and died of

wounds April 27, 1918. He is buried at the St Sever Cemetery Extension at Rouen in

France.377

Buttsworth, John Edmund^ Sergeant, No.19629 30th Battalion 9th Reinforcements Local connection: Hawkesbury, NSW Sergeant Buttsworth was a 23 year old single, Clerk when he enlisted on November

10, 1915. His next of kin were his parents Ebenezer Ernest and Fanny Buttsworth of

Jones’ Island Public School, Manning River in New South Wales. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A68 “Anchises” on August 24, 1916.378

Sergeant Buttsworth was from Hawkesbury. He suffered a gunshot wound to the

abdomen at 7.30 a.m. on April 8, 1918. In another report it stated that on the day

between Cashy and Glisy he was in reserves.379 Early in the morning he was going

with a ration of rum for his platoon and while doing so he was hit by a shell splinter to

his left side. He was badly wounded and unconscious and did not regain

consciousness. He was taken to the Battalion R.A.P. and died there. This was

behind Villers-Bretonneux about three miles from the front line in the reserve

trench.380 He was buried at St Pierre Cemetery at Amiens in France.381

375 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 376 Ibid 377 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 378 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 379 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 380 Australian War Memorial, 2014, www.awm.gov.au/research/people/wounded_and_missing 381 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au

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Byrnes, Frank Gabriel (George) ^ Private, No.1062 33rd Battalion, D Company Local connection: Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Byrnes was from Sentry Box, Courangra. He was a 19 year old single,

Farmer when he enlisted on January 14, 1916. His next of kin was his father James

Thomas Catherine Byrnes of Moss Vale in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A74 “Marathon” on May 4, 1916. He was wounded about a mile from

Ploagsteert Wood on June 7, 1917. He was looking over the parapet when a high

explosive shell burst near. A piece of shell pierced his helmet and penetrated his

brain. He died of wounds on June 11, 1917 at the 2nd Casualty Clearing Station382

He served at the Western Front and was buried at Trois-Arbres Cemetery at

Steenwerck in France.383

Byrnes, Norbert Joseph Private, No.2966A 47th Battalion, 7th Reinforcements Local connection: Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Byrnes was born at Hawkesbury River. He was a 38 year old single,

Labourer when he enlisted on October 7, 1916. Both his parents were deceased and

his eldest brother was Arthur James Byrnes of Bank St, Wollongong in New South

Wales. Private Byrnes lived in Brisbane.384 Official records show that Private Byrnes

was killed in action at Wytschaste, Flanders on August 9, 1917.385 His name is

recorded on the Ypres Menin Gate memorial.386

Caban, Albert William Private, No.5053 1st Division Machine Gun Coy. Local connection: Wollombi, NSW Private Caban was born at Wollombi. He was a 35 year old single, Railway Labourer

when he enlisted on January 4, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Jane Caban of

382 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 383 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 384 Ibid 385 NAA; B2455, BYRNES N J 386 http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1598088/BYRNES,%20NORBERT%20JOSEPH

93

468 Victoria Rd Marrickville in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board SS

“Makarini” on April 1, 1916.387 He returned to Australia on April 18, 1918.388

Cain, Sydney Alexander ^ Private, No.385 2nd Battalion, D Company Local connection: Brooklyn, Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Cain was from Brooklyn. He was a 35 year old single, Fisherman when he

enlisted on August 25, 1914. His next of kin was his brother Herbert Cain of 76 Pearl

St, Newtown in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board Transport A23 “Suffolk”

on October 18, 1914. He died of wounds on July 10, 1915 at Gallipoli.389 He was

buried at sea and his name is recorded at Lone Pine Memorial.390

Caldecott, John Vincent Gunner, No.1964, 1st Australian Light Horse, 13th Reinforcement Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Gunner Caldecott was from Ourimbah. He was an 18 year old Station Hand when he

enlisted on October 16, 1915. His next of kin was his father Edward Caldecott of

Ourimbah. He embarked from Sydney on December 20, 1915 on board HMAT A60

“Aeneas”. He suffered shrapnel wound to the jaw on November 2, 1916 and required

dental care on October 31, 1917 and had a bullet wound to his right thigh and

suffered a fractured femur which had to be amputated. He returned home to Sydney

on board HMAT D14 “Kanowna” from England and was discharged. On December

10, 1918 he drowned at about 4 p.m. at Palm Beach in Sydney.391

387 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 388 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 389 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 390 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 391 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.

94

Callaghan, Percival Clive, Mentioned in Despatches Gunner, No.18845 7th Field Artillery Brigade 27th Battery Local connection: Windsor, NSW Gunner Callaghan was a 35 year old single, Clerk from Thompson Square at

Windsor when he enlisted on December 13, 1915. His next of kin was his father Dr J

Callaghan of Thompson Square at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A8 “Argyllshire” on May 11, 1916. He was awarded a Mention in Despatches

(MID) as per “Commonwealth Gazette’ No.44, April 6, 1916. He returned to Australia

on March 31, 1919.392 His brother was Reginald Callaghan.

Callaghan, Reginald Gunner No.18844 7th Field Artillery Brigade 27th Battery Local connection: Windsor, NSW Gunner Callaghan was a 39 year old single Clerk from Thompson Square at Windsor

when he enlisted on November 30, 1915. His next of kin was his father Dr J

Callaghan of Thompson Square at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A8 “Argyllshire” May 11, 1916. He returned to Australia on November 16,

1918. His brother was Percival Clive Callaghan.393

Cambridge, Keith Russell Private, No.3743 2nd Battalion 12th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Cambridge was a 19 year old single, Farmer from George St at Windsor

when he enlisted on August 30, 1915. His next of kin was his father T. W. Cambridge

of George St, at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A7 “Medic” on

December 30, 1915. He returned to Australia on July 3, 1917.394

392 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 393 Ibid 394 Ibid

95

Cambridge, Thomas James Gunner, No.18846 7th Field Artillery Brigade 27th Battery Local connection: Windsor, NSW Gunner Cambridge was a 23 year old single, Mercer from George St at Windsor

when he enlisted on November 23, 1915. His next of kin was his mother A. A.

Cambridge of George St, at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8

“Argyllshire” on May 11, 1916. He returned to Australia on January 25, 1919.395

Camden, Hugh Allison Distinguished Conduct Medal Sergeant, No. 503 19th Battalion B Company Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Camden was a 23 year old single, Foreman Labourer when he enlisted on

March 1, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Camden of East Kempsey in New

South Wales. He previously served for two years in the Australian Rifle Regiment

(A.R.R.) militia. He embarked from Melbourne on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on

June 25, 1915.396 Sergeant Camden, at one time employed at Wilkinson Bros., store

in Wyong was awarded the Distinguish Conduct Medal for conspicuous bravery.397

He returned to Australia on March 17, 1918.

Campbell, Albert Henry* Private No.2082 17th Battalion 15th Reinforcements Local connections: Gosford and Narara, NSW Private Campbell was born at Gosford and attended Narara Public School. He was a

33 year old married Stockman when he enlisted on February 16, 1916. His wife was

born in Gosford and was Gertrude Amelia Campbell of Maitland Rd in Narara. His

parents were Hugh and Rebecca Campbell He previously served two years in the

Australian Bushman and served in the Boar War. He embarked from Sydney on

board the HMAT A46 “Clan MacGillvray” on May 3, 1916.

395 Ibid 396 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 397 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 2. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

96

Private Campbell died of wounds on November 9, 1917 at West Howick this side of

Passchendaele in Belgium. His name is recorded on Menin Gate. He was in a rest

camp and he and another man went up to the line to find a comrade and bury him.

He was killed on the way up by a shell instantaneously.398

The Gosford Times of February 14, 1918 reported that: Mr C. Hills, Manager of the

Commercial Bank had completed a memorial tablet to be presented to the Narara

Soldiers Recognition Association to the relative of Private Campbell who was killed

in action. The tablet was an excellent likeness of the deceased soldier. The design

which was executed in water colour represented the typical Anzac in uniform bearing

the Australian ensign with a trumpeter seen in the outline against the dawn sounding

the “Last Post.”399

Campbell, Allan Hynd Private, No.6720 13th Battalion 22nd Reinforcements Local connection: Wamberal, NSW Private Campbell was born at Wamberal. He was an 18 year old single, Farm Hand

when he enlisted on August 17, 1916. His next of kin was his father Archibald

Campbell of Wamberal. He embarked from Sydney on board SS “Port Nicholson” on

November 8, 1916.400 He served at the Western Front and returned to Australia on

August 1, 1919.

Campbell, Colin Sapper, No.17961 Engineers Training Unit Local connections: Gosford and Wamberal, NSW Sapper Campbell was born at Gosford. He was a 36 year old married Police

Constable when he enlisted on March 30, 1917. His wife was Margaret Lilia

398 Australian War Memorial, 2014, op cit. 399 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, February, 14. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 400 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

97

Campbell of “Glenbrook” in Baulkham Hills in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A15 “Port Sydney” on May 9, 1917.401

Private Campbell was from Wamberal.402 The Gosford Times of May 23, 1918

recorded that on Saturday evening a second social under the auspices of the Girls’

Patriotic Society was held at the School of Arts to farewell Private Campbell.403

The Gosford Times of May 30, 1918 recorded that: The School of Arts hall was

crowded on the Monday night. Shire President Mr Archbold occupied the chair and,

after the National Anthem, a programme of songs and recitations was rendered,

contributed by Mrs Fred Cohen, Mrs Fred Wheeler, Miss Guerin, Mr A. Harvey, Mr J.

Corbett, Mr C. Horne and Sergeant Forrest. President Archbold referred to the fact

that during the past few weeks some fifty recruits had volunteered in the Erina Shire,

of whom thirty-nine had been accepted for service. The enthusiasm shown in local

recruiting was largely due to the good work put in and tact displayed by the local

officer, Sergeant Forrest, who as a returned man knew how to put the case to those

eligible who was needed on the other side to help Australia’s brave lads.404 He

returned to Australia on July 26, 1919.405

Campbell, Colin Elks Private, No.90468 Depot Local connection: Terrigal, NSW Private Campbell was a 19 year old single, Coach Driver when he enlisted on May 2,

1918. His next of kin was his father Robert McGregor Campbell of Terrigal. Private

Campbell also resided at Terrigal.406 Records do not show what happened to him or

when he returned to Australia.

401 Ibid 402 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, July, 12. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 403 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, May, 23. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 404 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, May, 30. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 405 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 406 National Archives, 2014, op cit.

98

Campbell, Hugh Trooper, No.3530 1st Australian Light Horse 31st Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Trooper Campbell was born at Gosford. He was an 18 year old single, Printer for

The Gosford Times when he enlisted on May 28, 1917. His next of kin was his father

Thomas James Campbell of Gosford. He previously served in the militia.407 He

embarked from Melbourne in Victoria on board HMAT A73 “Commonwealth” on

November 2, 1917. He returned to Australia on April 7, 1919.408

Campbell, Hugh Stanley Trooper, No.551 1st Australian Light Horse Regiment B Squadron Local connection: Narara, NSW Trooper Campbell was a 28 year old single Mounted Police Officer when he enlisted

on September 2, 1914. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Campbell of Galston via

Hornsby in New South Wales. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A16 “Star

of Victoria” on October 20, 1916.409

The Gosford Times of June 28, 1917 recorded that on Saturday evening locals met

in the Narara Hall to do honour to Hugh Campbell. Mr R. Hill occupied the chair and

after a musical programme had been rendered he was presented with a pocket

wallet as well as knife, fork and spoon on behalf of the residents of Narara. Hugh

Campbell returned thanks on himself and his mates. Mrs Walsh, Miss Harvey and Mr

Ralph Teeson contributed to the evening’s enjoyment and Miss Coull presided at the

piano in her usual able manner. Sergeant Colman, Recruiting Officer for the district

gave a humorous recitation, which was much appreciated.410 He was discharged on

August 11, 1919 and died on February 27, 1960 at 74 years of age. He was

cremated at Macquarie Park Cemetery, North Ryde, Sydney.411

407 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 408 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 409 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 410 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, June, 28. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 411 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

99

Campbell, Irvine Fleming^ Captain, 2nd Battalion Local connection: Gosford, NSW Lieutenant Campbell was born at Gosford. He was a 37 year old married Shire Clerk

when he enlisted on August 17, 1914. His wife was Gertrude Ellen Campbell of

“Avoca” in St Aubins St, Scone in New South Wales He previously served in 14th

Infantry militia. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A23 “Suffolk” on October

18, 1914.412

The Gosford Times of June 18, 1915 reported: Captain Campbell whose death was

reported in June, 1915 having succumbed to wounds received in action at the

Dardanelles, was the fourth son of Mr and Mrs Campbell of “Wyoming” Gosford, one

of the oldest and best known families in the Brisbane Water district. Word was

received on that Friday that he had been wounded and a few days later a cable

conveyed the sad intelligence that he was to be the first Gosford victim to give his life

for King and country in this war.

Captain Campbell was born at Gosford in 1877 and apparently came from military

stock, for at an early stage after being educated at Newington College he became a

drill instructor. When the Boar War broke out he enlisted and went to South Africa

and in the following year was invalided home. Having recovered he married at Manly

Miss Gertrude Wand, daughter of Mr and Mrs A. J. Wand, also old residents of

Gosford. Later on he returned to South Africa and holding the rank of Quartermaster

Sergeant he served until peace was declared.

Returning to Gosford he continued his duties as drill instructor and eight years later

left for Scone to take up the position of Shire Clerk. In his new location he was

appointed Captain and continued military duties as instructor for the districts of

Scone, Muswellbrook and Murrurundi. Captain Campbell’s death came as a great

shock to the family and friends. He left a widow and three sons, the eldest being ten

years of age and two twins about twelve months old.413

412 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 413 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, June, 18. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

100

Campbell, Isaac Arthur Private, No.594 14th Machine Gun Company 10th Reinforcements Local connections: Gosford and Narara, NSW Private Campbell was born at Gosford. He was a 22 year old single, Drover when he

enlisted on March 14, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Florence H. Campbell of

Narara. He previously served in the 16th Infantry militia. He embarked from

Melbourne on board RMS “Osterley” on February 14, 1917.414 He served on the

Western Front and returned to Australia on May 11, 1919. He died on February 7,

1941 and was buried at Botany Cemetery in Sydney.415

Campbell, Matthew Thomas Private, No.5685 17th Battalion C Company 15th Reinforcements Local connections: Wyong and Gosford, NSW Private Campbell was born at Wyong and resided in Mann St, Gosford. He was a 22

year old single, Grocer when he enlisted on September 17, 1916. His next of kin was

his mother Elizabeth Campbell of Donnison St in Gosford. He embarked from

Sydney on HMAT A14 “Euripides” on September 9, 1916.416 He served on the

Western Front and returned to Australia on September 10, 1917.417

The Gosford Times of November 15, 1917 reported that Private Campbell had

returned home from the war.418 The Gosford Times of November 15, 1917 recorded

that aa welcome home under the auspices of the Gosford Patriotic Society was held

in the School of Arts on Monday evening.419 The function [reported in The Gosford

Times of December 20, 1917] was under the auspices of the Gosford Patriotic

Society. Mr F. R. Archbold acted as chairman and after speeches by Mr Stayner and

Mr Kirkness, presentations were made by Rev. A. Renwick. Private King responded.

414 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 415 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 416 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 417 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 418 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 15. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 419 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, December, 13. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

101

During the evening songs and recitations and musical items were rendered by Mrs

Cohen, Mrs White, Mrs Wheeler, Miss Guerin, Miss Friedman and Mr Harvey.

Musical selections in front of the hall were played by the Band.

Gifts for despatch to the soldiers included 5 tins fruit, 152 packets and 3 tins of

cigarettes, I tin of groats, 1 packet of playing cards, 1 tin of pork beans, 6 tooth

brushes, 3 combs, 2 pair of socks, 4 chewing gum, 1 stick shaving soap, 14 writing

wallets, 2 books gum-nut babies and blossoms, 2 handkerchiefs, 2 towels, 9 packets

envelopes, 4 tins and 1 packet tobacco, 2 tins sardines, 4 cakes and 1 box soap, 1

tin jam, 1 pair slippers, 1 writing tablet and 38 shillings and 6 pence in cash.420

Campbell, Thomas James Private, No.1574 2nd Remount Unit Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Campbell was born and resided at Gosford. He was a 47 year old married

Labourer when he enlisted on September 27, 1915. His wife was Florence Hannah

Campbell of Gosford. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A67 “Orsova” on

November 10, 1915. He served in Egypt and returned to Australia on April 29,

1916.421

Campbell, William John Private, No.3079 1st Pioneer Battalion 7th Reinforcements Local connection: Catherine Hill Bay, NSW Private Campbell was a 41 year old married miner residing at Catherine Hill Bay

when he enlisted on May 16, 1916. His next of kin was his wife Matilda Sophia

Campbell of the Mine Camp at Catherine Hill Bay. He embarked from Sydney on

420 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, December, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 421 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, November, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

102

board HMAT A30 “Borda” on October 17, 1916. Records do not show what

happened to him or when he returned to Australia.422

Campton, Sidney Clyde Private, No.2368 Imperial Camel Corps February 17th Reinforcements Local connection: Kanwal, NSW Private Campton was a 19 year old single, Slaughterman residing at Kanwal when

he enlisted on February 5, 1917. His next of kin was his father John Campton of

Kanwal. He embarked from Sydney on board RMS “Morea” on February 17, 1917.

He returned to Australia on April 23, 1919.423

Cant, Robert* Private, No.1366 2nd Battalion 2nd Reinforcements Local connection: Morisset, NSW Private Cant was from Morisset.424 He was a 19 year old single, Farm Labourer

when he enlisted on November 27, 1914. His next of kin was his father Alexander

Cant and his mother was Margaret Cant at Oak Vale in Morisset in New South

Wales. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A48 “Seang Bee” on February

11, 1915.425 He was killed in action on April 27, 1915 at Gallipoli and has no known

grave. His name appears on the Lone Pine Memorial.426

Capper, Stanley Vivian Walker Private, No.8735 1st Field Ambulance 14th Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Capper was born at Gosford. He was a 22 year old single, Clerk when he

enlisted on July 18, 1915. His sister was Australia Alberta Martin of Dungog St in

422 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 423 Ibid 424 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, November, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 425 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 426 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

103

Hamilton. He embarked from Sydney on board RMS “Osterley” on January 15,

1916.427 He returned to Australia on July 12, 1919.

Carey, Thomas* Private, No.1111 9th Battalion 1st Reinforcements Local connection: Sackville Reach, Windsor, NSW Private Carey was a 28 year old single, Labourer c/o Mrs N. Hall of Sackville Reach

via Windsor when he enlisted on October 9, 1914. His next of kin was his sister Miss

Mary Carey c/o Mrs N. Hall of Sackville Reach. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A32 “Themistocles” December 22, 1914. He was promoted to Lance-Corporal

and was killed in action on April 25, 1915 at Gallipoli. He has no known grave and is

commemorated at the Lone Pine Cemetery at Gallipoli.428

Cardell, Garrett Patrick Francis Victor Private, No.2625 45th Battalion 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Cardell was a 43 year old single, Clerk residing in Wyong when he enlisted

on June 5, 1916. His next of kin was his father John Cardell of Wyong Creek. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on October 7, 1916. He

returned to Australia on January 9, 1920 and was discharged on April 23, 1920.429

Carter, Joseph Ernest Private, No.2889 57th Battalion 7th Reinforcements Local connection: Warnervale, NSW Private Carter was a 27 year old single, Labourer from Warnervale when he enlisted

on August 30, 1916. His next of kin was his uncle Patrick Soherly, c/o John Newart

at Murrobo, Blayney in New South Wales.. He embarked from Sydney on board

427 Ibid 428 Ibid 429 Ibid

104

HMAT A19 “Afric” on November 3, 1916.430 He served at the Western Front and

returned to Australia on July 22, 1917.431

Casey, Oswald Private, No.58549 55th Battalion Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Casey was born at Wyong. He was a 22 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on May 21, 1918. His next of kin was his mother Elizabeth Casey. He

previously served in the Royal Australian Navy for eleven months on board H.M.A.S.

“Encounter”. He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on December 22,

1914. He later embarked from Sydney on HMAT A18 “Wiltshire” on June 19, 1918

and again on SS “Field Marshall” on June 19, 1918. He returned to Australia on

January 14, 1919.432

Cassell, Howard Leslie Private, No. 2256 13th Battalion 6th Reinforcements Private Cassell was born at Ourimbah. He was an 18 year old single, Blacksmith

when he enlisted on May 28, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Janet Lucy

Cassell of Ourimbah. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A62 “Wandilla” on

May 3, 1916 433

The Gosford Times of May 17, 1917 recorded that Private Cassell was from

Ourimbah, and he wrote from the trenches under date February 28, 1917, he said

that he had met Fred Gibson, Charlie Brown and other Erina boys. He also said that

he received a parcel of biscuits all the way from Ourimbah and they were in excellent

condition. He also said he thought that a lot of the boys letters had been sunk at sea

lately he was told.434 He returned to Australia on June 2, 1919.435

430 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 431 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 432 Ibid 433 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 434 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, May, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 435 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

105

Cassell, John

Private Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Cassell was a 44 year old married Blacksmith when he enlisted on May 25,

1916. His wife was H. L. Cassell of Ourimbah. He was discharged from the

Australian Imperial Forces before leaving Australia.436

Cater, Claude Anthony Private, No.89058 Depot Local connection: Jilliby, NSW Private Cater was born at Jilliby. He was an 18 year old single, Teamster when he

enlisted on October 3, 1918. His next of kin was his father George James Cater of

Jilliby.437 Records do not show what happened to him or when he returned to

Australia.

Cathels, James. Mentioned in despatches. Military Medal Private No.6784 7th Battalion, 20th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Cathels was an 18 year old single, Carter residing at Wyong when he

enlisted on June 5, 1917. His sister was Agnes Cathels of a private hospital in

Darlinghurst Rd, Darlinghurst in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT

A72 “Beltana” on June 16, 1917.438 He was awarded the Military Medal (MM) for his

work at Mons St Quentin on August 31, 1918 as cited,

This runner is a fearless boy who continuously carried messages to the front line through heavy barrages, and, further on, direct machine gun fire, during the operation at MONT ST. QUENTIN near PERONNE, on 31st August 1918. When requested by an artillery officer to accompany him with the object of putting out of action a machine gun and party of 16 enemy who had worked into a position near Battalion Headquarters he readily complied, despite the odds. They were successful, the enemy retreating, and

436 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 437 Ibid 438 National Archives, 2014, op cit.

106

the gun was captured.

“Commonwealth Gazette “No. 115 October 10, 1919

He returned to Australia on March 5, 1919. He died on August 1, 1955 at 55 years of

age. 439

Cato, Vincent Arthur* Corporal, No.23 D Company, 2nd Battalion, 11th Infantry Local connection: Niagara Park, NSW He was a 36 year old widower Engine Driver when he enlisted on August 22, 1914.

His next of kin was his son Cecil Victor Cato of Niagara Park. He previously served

in the Royal Navy. He was killed in action on May 2, 1915 at Gallipoli and has no

known grave. 440 He went out on patrol from a spot later called Quinn’s Post with

three others and he never returned. One of the three returned and stated that he and

Cato were on a ridge at Schrapnel Valley and they were in a bad way. He managed

to get away but Cato did not and must have been killed.441

The Gosford Times of June 18, 1915 recorded that Private Cato who enlisted with

the first contingent was reported missing at Gallipoli. A telegram to that effect was

received on that Tuesday.442 He was later promoted to Corporal and he was serving

with the Expeditionary Forces when he sent sent The Gosford Times the following

typed “Soldier’s Don’ts”, published on April 9, 1915, a copy of which had been

supplied to each soldier and they were:

Don’t show the white flag unless your officer orders you.

Don’t stop firing or advancing because the enemy shows a white flag till your officer

orders you to

Don’t, however, fire deliberately at the man showing the flag.

Don’t have any friendly chat with the enemy; he is just as likely to be treacherous as

not.

439 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 440 Gosford Library, 2013, Local History, www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/library/local_history 441 www. awm.gov.au/people/roll-search/wounded_and missing_ 442 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, June, 18. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

107

Don’t kill a man who has thrown down his arms as a sign that he has cease to resist.

Don’t be heartbroken if you kill such a one by mistake. It is his fault for having

resisted up till too late.

Don’t fail to shoot a wounded man who continues to fight; he is quite right to do so,

but you cannot be expected to treat him differently from a hale man.

Don’t hide your weapons, or your uniform.

Don’t spare an enemy who does the same; haul him to your officer and let him deal

with him.

Don’t rub or file your bullets; if you are caught with such bullets on you, you will be

shot and serve you right.

Don’t shoot a spy off hand; he is doing a very plucky thing and deserves a trial; all

the same.

Don’t let him off and

Don’t give him time to make up a story.

Don’t become a prisoner of war if you can help it. They will be getting short rations

by June, but if caught.

Don’t resist your guard.

Don’t refuse to work; you have no right to jib work except such is connected with the

fighting actually in progress.

Don’t refuse to give your name and regiment; it doesn’t do any good and your people

won’t know what has become of you.

Don’t fail to escape if you get a chance.

Don’t maltreat prisoners of war, when first captured, or take their private property.

Don’t fail to shoot a prisoner of war who tries to escape.

Don’t fail to shoot a prisoner of war trying to assist the enemy.

Don’t fail to shoot a prisoner of war who assaults you viciously.

Don’t fail to down a prisoner of war who resists you in any other way.

Don’t torture a prisoner for information.

Don’t give parole except through your officer.

Don’t act treacherously, or in any way which has a hint of meanness in it.

Don’t let yourself be caught by the others acting treacherously.

Don’t be a brute because the enemy is one. If he breaks the laws you may be sure

that some suitable punishment will be thought out and inflicted; but as for yourself.

108

Don’t go beyond your rights and do as you would be done by.443

Cawthon, George Andrew Joshua Driver, No.615 1 Divisional Train (1 to 4 Coys Army Service Corps) October, 1914 Local connection: Windsor, NSW Driver Cawthon was a single man from 4 Thomas St at Windsor when he enlisted on

August 28, 1914. His next of kin was his father G. H. L. Cawthon of 4 Thomas St at

Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A19 “Afric” on October 18,

1914. He returned to Australia on May 12, 1918.444

Chalk, Wilbie Frederick Gunner, No.28952 Medium Trench Mortar Battery Local connection: Morisset, NSW Gunner Chalk was born at Morisset. He was a 32 year old married Hospital

Attendant when he enlisted on June 9, 1916. His next of kin was his wife Edith Chalk

of Cooranbong Rd in Morisset. He previously served four years in the 4th Queen’s

West Surrey Regiment and four years in Sussex Imperial Yeomanry. He embarked

from Sydney on board HMAT A30 “Borda” on October 17, 1916.445 He returned to

Australia on August 8, 1919.446

Chandler, Harold Ebenezer Private, No.54645 5th A.M.T. Local connection: Wyong Creek, NSW Private Chandler was a 19 year old single, Orchardist when he enlisted on April 24,

1918. His next of kin was his father Albert Frank Chandler of “Ferndale” at Wyong

443 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, April, 9. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 444 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 445 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 446 Ibid

109

Creek. He embarked from Sydney on board SS “Field Marshall” on June 19, 1918.

His brothers were Leslie Campbell Chandler and Robert William Chandler447

The Gosford Times of April 25, 1918 recorded that Private Chandler was from

Wyong Creek and enlisted. He passed the medical examination as being fit and went

into camp to swell the “Carmichael Thousand.” He was the third son Mr and Mrs

Chandler had given to fight for the Empire. The latest recruit was a fine stamp of an

Australian, 6 feet tall, well set up, a good shot, and a splendid horseman. He offered

his services on his nineteenth birthday.448 His records state that he was still

overseas.449

Chandler, Leslie Campbell Driver, No.19257 7th Field Artillery Brigade Local connection: Wyong Creek, NSW Driver Chandler was a 23 year old single, Teamster when he enlisted on November

29, 1915. His next of kin was his father Albert Chandler of “Ferndale” Wyong Creek.

He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8 “Argyllshire” on May 11, 1916. His

brothers were Harold Ebenezer Chandler and Robert William Chandler450

The Gosford Times of March 14, 1918 recorded that Driver Chandler was from

Wyong Creek and in writing to his mother he said he had just spent two weeks in

Scotland and had a very good time. Everywhere he went Australia’s sons were made

welcome. After his return to France he met Sid Goldsmith, Albert Sharp. W. Earl, E.

Reilly, Tom Maher and Jack Tarrant, all Wyong boys. It was a rare thing to meet so

many friends in one day he said. He had more than two years’ service and was still

going strong.451 He returned to Australia on May 11, 1919.452

447 Ibid 448 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, April, 25. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 449 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 450 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 451 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, March, 14. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 452 Australian Imperial Force, 2014

110

Chandler, Robert William Private, No.4063 1st Pioneer Brigade Local connection: Wyong Creek, NSW Private Chandler was a 21 year old single, Orchardist when he enlisted on February

7, 1917. His next of kin was his mother Frances Rosina Chandler of “Ferndale” in

Wyong Creek. He previously served eighty-nine days in the Remount Corps,

Australian Army Corps. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A72 “Beltana” on

June 16, 1917. His brothers were Harold Ebenezer Chandler and Leslie Campbell

Chandler 453

The Gosford Times of March 14, 1918 recorded that Private Chandler was from

Wyong Creek he had passed as a marksman and wore the cross arms on his

sleeve. He also won a good cash prize at musketry before leaving for England for

the front.454 He later married his wife Florence Chandler c/o Mrs H. Rodgers of

Speed St, Liverpool in Sydney. He returned to Australia on HMAT “Runic” on

November 26, 1918.455 Chapman, Cecil D’oyly Palmer Gunner, No.28073 2nd Divisional Ammunition Column 10th Reinforcements Local connection: Green Point near Gosford, NSW Gunner Chapman was a 33 year old married Miner residing at Green Point when he

enlisted on September 7, 1916. His next of kin was wife C. J. Chapman of Green

Point. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A11 “Ascanius” on October 25,

1916. He returned to Australia on August 1919.456

453 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 454 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, March, 14. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 455 NAA; B2455, Chandler, R W 456 Ibid

111

Chapman, Stanley Private, No.7346 5th Machine Gun Battalion Local connection: Woy Woy, NSW Private Chapman was born at Woy Woy. He was a 28 year old single, Commercial

Traveller when he enlisted on July 4, 1916. His next of kin was his father Mark

Jenkins Chapman of Peppermint Grove in Western Australia. He embarked from

Fremantle, Western Australia on board HMAT A28 “Miltiades” on January 29,

1917.457 He returned to Australia on December 11, 1918.458 Chapman, Victor Private, No.8357 20th Army Service Corps Headquarters Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Chapman was born at Gosford. He was a 22 year old single, Architect when

he enlisted on September 13, 1915. His next of kin was his father John Chapman of

Daniel St, Granville in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A66

“Uganda” on November 27, 1915.459 He was commissioned to 2nd Lieutenant and

was discharged March 16, 1917.460

Chaseling, Clifford Stanley Private, No.6048 19th Battalion 17th Reinforcements Local connection: Tuggerah, NSW Private Chaseling was from Tuggerah. He was an 18 year old single, Rope maker

when he enlisted on December 7, 1915. His next of kin was his father Donald

Chaseling of 44 May St, St. Peters in Sydney. He previously served for two years in

the Citizens Forces. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A11 “Ascanius” on

October 25, 1916.461 He returned to Australia on March 16, 1918.462

457 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 458 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 459 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 460 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 461 National Archives, 2013, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records 462 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

112

Chilcott, John Private, No.95083 Depot Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Chilcott was born at Ourimbah. He was a 39 year old married Miner when he

enlisted on October 5, 1918 and was discharged from the army before leaving

Australia. His wife was Elizabeth Chilcott of 42 Throsby St, Wickham in

Newcastle.463

Chippindall, Herbert. Mentioned in despatches. Military Medal Gunner, No. 18437 25th Battery 7th Field Artillery Brigade Local connection: Gosford, NSW Gunner Chippindall was a 20 year old single Clerk when he enlisted on September

21, 1915. His next of kin was his father Mr Chippindall of Newcastle. He previously

served in the 16th Battalion militia. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8

“Argyllshire” on May 11, 1916.464 He returned to Australia on May 29, 1919. His

brother was Leonard Chippindall465

The Gosford Times of August 20, 1915 recorded that at the Police Court at Gosford,

on Friday last, reference was made by the Chairman of the Bench to the departure of

Mr Chippendall, deposition clerk, to fight for his country. Mr Adrian, Stipendiary

Magistrate who, with Mr Archbold J. P. occupied the Bench, said he desired to

express on behalf of the Bench, their admiration for Mr Chippendall. Personally, he

always felt the utmost admiration for young men who offered their services for their

country. In the present instance their young friend was giving up a good position and

prospects to fight for his King and country in a cause that was absolutely just and all

felt he was doing the right thing in making the sacrifice.

It meant that deliberately he was offering his life for his country’s life and liberty and

what nobler way a man’s life could end. Life was, after all, a short span, but how we

lived and how we died that really mattered. Mr Chippendall had chosen deliberately

463 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 464 Ibid 465 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

113

and knew he was doing right and they all admired him for his choice. At the same

time it must be remembered that it was only a percentage that were wounded and a

still smaller percentage that were killed and they hoped to welcome him back full of

honours and in the hope that he might live to tell his sons and his grandsons that he

was proud to have offered his life and done his part towards saving his country in the

great war of 1915.

Sergeant Morris of the Gosford Police, (who had a son at the front and was later

killed) said that while they were proud to know that another of their young men had

enlisted, they would miss Mr Chippendall at the Gosford office, for he was a most

capable officer. They had no doubt that he would acquit himself with credit along with

the other gallant Australians who had enlisted.

Mr J. W. Lees of the Crown Prosecution Service said that in Mr Chippendall’s

departure they were losing a good officer for a time, but after he had done his part in

the fighting line, where he had no doubt he would do well, they would rejoice to

welcome him back again.

Mr A. J. Chapman, on behalf of the citizens of Gosford, desired to add his

congratulations and to testify to the esteem in which Mr Chippendall was held, and

their admiration for him in disregarding everything to obey his country’s call. It was

only by sacrifice that victory would be achieved and Mr Chippendall had not

hesitated to make that sacrifice.466

The Gosford Times of February 7, 1918 reportetd: Mr H. H. Chippendall, relieving

police magistrate for the State and formerly C. P. S. at Newcastle, was advised that

his son had been awarded the Military Medal (MM). He took charge of a gun sub-

section twice when all the N. C. O.’s had been either killed or wounded. It was for

this that the distinction was conferred on him. His brother was Gunner Leonard

Chippendall467.

466 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, August, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 467 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, February, 7. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

114

Chippindall, Leonard. Mentioned in Despatches. Military Medal Gunner No.18439 25th Battery 7th Field Artillery Brigade Local connection: Gosford, NSW Chippindall was a 20 year old single Clerk when he enlisted on January 12, 1916.

His next of kin was his father H. H. Chippindall of Perkins St, Newcastle in New

South Wales. He had previously served in the 39th Field Company Army Engineers.

He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8 “Argyllshire” on May 11, 1916. He

was awarded the Military Medal (MM) on November 27, 1918 as cited,

On 9th April, near MERICOURT, west of ALBERT the 25th Battery was in the area subjected to a very heavy area shoot, during which a small barn containing ammunition and material, and in which 4 men were sleeping, was hit direct by a 5.9 shell and set on fire. one man was killed, another wounded, and the remainder completely dazed. Gunner CHIPPINDALL rushed to the burning shed, and succeeded in clearing the men from the debris. He then managed to put out the fire, thereby saving a considerable quantity of ammunition and material. During the whole time, shells were falling fast, and this gunner displayed great courage and coolness.

“Commonwealth Gazette” No. 185, November 27, 1918. He served on the Western

Front and

returned to Australia on May 11, 1916. His brother was Bombardier Herbert

Chippindall (MM).468

Chisholm, Ivor Archibald Private, No.667 13th Australian Light Horse Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Chisholm was born at Gosford on February 26, 1895. He was a 19 year old

single, Tailor when he enlisted on October 10, 1914. His next of kin was his mother

Mrs Marshall of 12 Holt St in Stanmore. He previously served two years as a driver

in the 8th A.M.C. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A55 “Kyarra” on

468 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

115

November 28, 1914.469 He served in Egypt and the Western Front and returned to

Australia on April 27, 1919.470 Church, Chester Cecil^ Lance-Sergeant, No.635 30th Battalion, C Company Local connection: Mangrove Mountain, NSW Lance-Sergeant Church was a 24 year old single, Hairdresser when he enlisted on

July 2, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Susannah Louisa Alpin of “St Astle” in

Palmer St, Balmain in Sydney. He previously served in the Royal Militia of Jersey

and resigned on leaving the island. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A72

“Beltana” on November 9, 1915.471

He was killed instantly in action by a shell in France on July 20, 1916 at Fleurbaix in

France. However in various Red Cross reports there is a different story. It was

recorded by witnesses that Lance-Sergeant Church was taken prisoner by the

Germans. Below is a translated copy of a card found in the Machweis Buro in Berlin

and forwarded by Captain Mills on August 14, 1919 that No.835 C. Church, 30th

Battalion did not exist and it obviously refers to above. NAME Church C., RANK Pte

No. of identity disc, 835, DIVISION 30th Battalion, A.I.F., TIME and PLACE of

CAPTURE identity disc handed in by N.O. of A.O.K.O. Lance-Sergeant Church also

appeared on a German death list dated November 4, 1916.472 He has no known

grave and is commemorated at the Australian Cemetery memorial in Fromelles.473

Clancy, Donald Vincent Private Depot Local connection: Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Clancy was born at Hawkesbury River. He was a 27 year old married

Butcher when he enlisted on October 24, 1915. His wife was May Clancy of 15

469 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 470 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 471 Ibid 472 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 473 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

116

Bourne St. Marrickville in Sydney. He previously served for three years in the Irish

Rifles. He was discharged on December 14, 1915 as his services were no longer

required.474

Clarke, Andrew Private, No.4803 19th Battalion, 12th Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Clarke was born at Gosford. He was a 21 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on January 11, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mary Clarke of Leonard

St, Waitara in Newcastle. He previously served in the 19th Infantry militia. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on April 13, 1916.475 He

returned to Australia on September 23, 1918.476

Clarke, Arthur James^ Private, No.1888 55th Battalion, 3rd Reinforcement Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Clarke was a 31 year old single, Labourer when he enlisted on January 18,

1916. His next of kin was his father W. T. Clarke of 76 Cross St, Double Bay in

Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A37 “Barambah” on June 23,

1916. He was killed in action at Passchendaele in Belgium on October 12, 1917. His

name is recorded on Menin Gate.477

The Gosford Times of January 24, 1918 recorded that unofficial information was

received here the previous week of the death in France of Private Clarke, who before

enlisting was on the staff of the local bank in Wyong. He died some months earlier of

wounds received in action.478

474 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 475 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 476 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 477 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 478 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, January, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

117

Clarke, Manfred Private, No.2466 2nd Australian Remount Unit 1st Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Clarke was a 20 year old single Farmer from Windsor when he enlisted on

November 1, 1915. His next of kin was his father Hilton Clarke of Windsor. He

embarked from Sydney on board RMS “Orontes” on November 20, 1915. He

returned to Australia on October 18, 1919.479

Clegg, Herbert John Private, No.1930 3rd Battalion, 5th Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Clegg was born at Gosford. He was a 24 year old single, Fireman on the

railways when he enlisted on January 18, 1915 at Liverpool in Sydney. His next of

kin was his sister Mrs A. E. Crane of Sydney Rd in Goulburn New South Wales He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A55 “Kyarra” on April 13, 1915.480 He

returned to Australia on May 11, 1916 and died on December 31, 1955.481

Clifford, Charles* Private, No.4386 20th Battalion 11th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Clifford was a 23 year old single, Clerk from Mileham St at Windsor when he

enlisted on November 2, 1915. His next of kin was his father C. Clifford of Mileham

St at Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A71 “Nestor” on April 9,

1916. He was killed in action on September 20, 1917 in Belgium. He has no known

grave and was commemorated at Menin Gate. His brother was Oscar Clifford482 He

was hit in the neck by shrapnel and fell into a shell hole which was filled with water.

Others could not get to him in time and he drowned.483

479 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 480 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 481 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 482 Ibid 483 www. awm.gov.au/people/roll-search/wounded_and missing_

118

Clifford, Oscar Private, No.66434 21st New South Wales Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Clifford was a 28 year old married Photographer from Windsor when he

enlisted on July 31, 1918. His next of kin was his wife M. E. Clifford of Mileham St at

Windsor. He embarked from Adelaide in South Australia on board HMAT A36

“Boonah” on October 22, 1918. Records do not show what happened to him or when

he returned to Australia. His brother was Charles Clifford.484

Clout, Leslie Walter Francis* Private, No.4965 4th Battalion 15th Reinforcements Local connection: Windsor, NSW Private Clout was an 18 year old single, Machinist from Windsor. He had attended

Windsor Public School. He enlisted on November 29, 1915. His next of kin was his

mother Mary Jane Clout and his father was William Edward Clout of Catherine St at

Windsor. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A15 “State of England” on

March 8, 1916. He was killed in action July 19, 1916 in France when he went over

the top with others at about 5.10 p.m. and about fifty yards over, a shell exploded

amongst them and Clout was killed. He was buried at V.C. Corner at the Australian

Cemetery Memorial at Fromelles in France.485

Clouten, Abraham^ Private, No. 2421 35th Battalion, 4th Reinforcement Local connections: Dora Creek and Wyong, NSW Private Clouten was from Wyong.486 He was born at Dora Creek and was a 20 year

old single, Fisherman when he enlisted on June 15, 1916. His next of kin was his

father W. J. Clouten of Toronto New South Wales. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A30 “Borda” on October 17, 1916. He was killed in action when he was

484 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 485 Ibid 486 Rooksberry Michael, 1997, Every Mothers Son, Tracing the History of Those from the Central Coast Who Answered Their Country’s Call and the Tributes Created In Their Memory, Gosford City Library

119

hit by a bullet in the stomach at 4.30 p.m. in the open during a counter attack. He

died the same night at the R. A. P. at Villers-Bretonneux in France on April 5,

1918.487 His was the brother of Leslie Clouten

Clouten, Leslie^ Private No.2421 35th Battalion Local connection: Dora Creek, NSW Private Clouten was born at Dora Creek. He was a 20 year old single, Fisherman

when he enlisted on June 29, 1916. His next of kin was his father William John

Clouten of Toronto Fish Company and his mother was Jane. He previously served in

the 16th Infantry Citizens Military Forces (C.M.F.). He embarked from Sydney on

RMS “Orontes” on October 17, 1916.488 At about 4.30 p.m. he was shot in the

stomach while out in the open during a counter attack He was taken to R.A.P. where

he died died of wounds on April 5, 1918 at Villers-Bretonneux in France and is buried

in the Adelaide Cemetery also in Villers-Bretonneux.489 He was the brother of

Abraham Clouten.

Coady, William Vincent* Private, No.6487 13th Battalion, 20th Reinforcements Local connections: Wollombi, NSW Private Coady was born at Wollombi and attended Wollombi Public School. He was

a 33 year old single, School Teacher when he enlisted on May 8, 1916. His next of

kin was his mother Katherine Coady of 20 Pine St Newtown in Sydney. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on October 7, 1917.490

Private Coady was killed in action on April 2, 1918. A soldier in his platoon, of 7th

Platoon, B Company stated that Coady was a bomber in the squad and on the whole

day of May 8, 1918, they were in the front line at Villers-Bretonneux and Coady was

out alone in a small dug-out in front of the trench. The trench was very small and

487 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 488 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 489 www. awm.gov.au/people/roll-search/wounded_and missing_ 490 National Archives, 2014, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records

120

there was no room for all the bombing squad to lie down to sleep. They had only

taken that trench from the Germans the night before and had not had time to enlarge

it. It was very small only having been used by the Germans as a listening post.

Coady had gone further to the front to find a place to sleep and had remained there

the whole day.

He was returning in the dusk of the evening when a machine gun got him in the

throat and legs and killed him. The soldier said that Coady would have felt nothing at

all. As soon as the others saw what had happened for they were watching him come

in, they went over the top and picked him up. They got him behind a bank and

examined him, but he was dead. They took off his equipment and carried him to the

rear where he was buried the same night in a shell hole in the rear of what was then

their reserve line. Their Platoon Officer took procession of Coady’s papers and other

property. Coady was described as being about 5 feet 7 inches tall and on the thin

side, lean and wiry.491 He has no known grave and his name is inscribed on the

Australian National Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux.492

Cobb, Oscar Private, Depot Local connections: Wyong, NSW Private Cobb was from Gosford.493 He was born at Wyong and was a 30 year old

single, Bushman when he enlisted on May 6, 1918. His next of kin was his father

Charles Cobb of Wyong.494 Records do not show what happened to him or when he

returned to Australia.

491 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 492 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 493 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, May, 9. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 494 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

121

Cochrane, James Baird Private, No.6231 1st Battalion 20th Reinforcements Local connections: Tuggerah, NSW Private Cochrane was a 22 year old single Departmental Manager from Tuggerah

when he enlisted on February 27, 1916. His next of kin was his father W Cochrane of

Strathaven at Lanarkshire in Scotland. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT

A14 “Euripides” on September 9, 1916. He returned to Australia on April 10, 1919.495

Cock, Allen Geddes Gunner, No.13036 2 Divisional Ammunition Column 4th Reinforcements Local connections: Wyong, NSW Gunner Cock was born at Wyong. He was a 20 year old single, Carter when he

enlisted on August 17, 1915. His next of kin was his father John Cock of Gunnedah

in New South Wales Private Cock was currently serving in the 13th Infantry. He

embarked from Sydney on HMAT A71 “Nestor” on April 9, 1916.496 He served on the

Western Front and returned to Australia on May 29, 1919.497

Codd John (Jack). Private, No.2597 18th Battalion, 6th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong Creek, NSW Private Codd was a 23 year old single Gardener when he enlisted on August 1,

1915. His next of kin was Patrick Codd in Ireland. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on November 2, 1915.498 The Gosford Times of

October 19, 1916 recorded that Private Codd was from Wyong Creek. News had

been received that Private J. Codd had been wounded and was in hospital in

France.499 Later he was in a Convalescent Camp with a wound in his arm and

495 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 496 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 497 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 498 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 499 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, October, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

122

hand.500 He served in Egypt, Gallipoli and the Western Front and was discharged on

July 26, 1919.501

Collings, Harold J. Corporal No.1993 2nd Australian Light Horse, 14th Reinforcements Local connections: Ourimbah, NSW Corporal Collings had connections to Ourimbah, and his name is listed on several

local honour roll boards. He was a 23 year old married Dairy Farmer when he

enlisted on September 24, 1915. He previously served for eight years with the

Australian Light Horse at Bangalow. His wife was Edith Sarah Collins of Clunes in

New South Wales. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A62 “Wandilla” on

January 31, 1916. He died on January 16, 1917 at the 12th Australian Field

Ambulance Station.502

Cole, Percival David Private, No.4381 19th Battalion 11th Reinforcements Local connections: Gosford, NSW Private Cole was born at Gosford. He was a 24 year old single Grocer when he

enlisted on December 9, 1915. His next of kin was his father W. G. Cole of 5 Young

St, Neutral Bay in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A71 “Nestor”

on April 9, 1916. He returned to Australia on December 22, 1918.503

Colley, Roy Milson Private No.3233 1st Australian Light Horse 26th Reinforcements Local connections: Wyong, NSW Private Colley was a 19 year old single Grocer residing at “Kia Ora” at Hope Street in

Wyong when he enlisted on August 5, 1915. His next of kin was his father Edward

500 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 23. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 501 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 502 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 503 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

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Colley of “Kia Ora at Hope Street in Wyong. He embarked at Sydney on board RMS

“Morea” on February 17, 1919. He served on the Western Front and returned to

Australia on March 13, 1919.504

Colman, Joseph Leonard, MBE. Mentioned in Dispatches. Chevalier, Crown of Romania Captain, No.7241 Army Service Corps Local connection: Mangrove Mountain, NSW 2nd Lieutenant Coleman was a 27 year old Manufacturer Agent when he enlisted on

May 18, 1915. His next of kin was his father George Colman of 25 Dalley St,

Waverley in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A66 “Uganda”

November 27, 1915.505 He was later promoted and The Gosford Times of August 2,

1917 recorded that Captain Coleman was from Mangrove Mountain and was the

younger brother of Roger Coleman. He was awarded a Member of the Order of the

British Empire (MBE) on March 24, 1918. Awarded the Chevalier, Crown of Romania

on January 6, 1919. Awarded a Mention in Despatches (MID) as per Commonwealth

Gazette” No. 124 on October 30, 1919. He returned to Australia on June 12, 1919.506

Colman, Roger. Mentioned in despatches. Military Medal Driver, No.9602 4th Army Service Corps Local connection: Mangrove Mountain, NSW Driver Colman was from Mangrove Mountain and the brother of Joe Coleman. He

was a 29 year old Clerk when he enlisted on September 8, 1915. His next of kin was

his father George Colman of 25 Dalley St, Waverley in Sydney. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A35 “Berrima” on December 17, 1915.507 He was

recommended for the Military Medal (MM) on June 15, 1917 as cited,

These men [COLMAN, 8401 J.C. GLEN, and 101 A.A. BRUNT] were noted on 25th May 1917, when intense enemy fire and an ammunition dump exploding close by, made necessary the

504 Ibid 505 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 506 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, August 2, Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 507 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

124

rapid removal of the horses of the convoy of which they formed part; the example they set on this occasion was a fine one and their coolness of great value in carrying out the work. The convoy was engaged upon road repair work in the vicinity of BUSSCHEMEERSCHEN under direct observation of enemy's balloon with a party of Infantry who immediately left their work and took cover leaving the Drivers to extricate themselves. The road was too narrow to turn vehicles.

“Commonwealth Gazette” No. 219, 20 December 1917. He returned to Australia on

April 19, 1919.508

Compton, Clarence Henry* Sergeant, No.1011 5th Australian Regiment, 1st Australian Division Local connection: Green Point, near Gosford, NSW Private Compton was from Green Point. He was a 40 year old married Farmer when

he enlisted on September 25, 1914. His next of kin was Mrs C. H. Compton of 4

Ventor Avenue in Perth, Western Australia. He previously served for eighteen

months in the West Australian Mounted Infantry. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A39 “Port Macquarie” on December 21, 1914. He was listed as being

killed in action, but his records noted that he committed suicide by shooting himself

at Marakeb in Palestine.509

The Gosford Times of June 11, 1915 recorded that Private C. H. Compton, writing to

his foster mother, Mrs Cuthbert, Green Point, from Egypt under date 8th May, stated

that he had been promoted to the rank of Lance-Corporal and was leaving

immediately for the front.510 In The Gosford Times of September 27, 1917, Mrs

Cuthbert received word that her adopted son was killed in action in Palestine about

September 4. He enlisted as a private and after three years’ active service rose to

the rank of Sergeant.511

508 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 509 Gosford Library, 2013, Local History, www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/library/local_history 510 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, June, 11. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 511 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, September, 27. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

125

In another article, published in The Gosford Times of December 20, 1917, it was

recorded that Mr and Mrs Cuthbert had just received the last letter written home by

Sergeant Compton. In it he complained of being tired to death after three years

continuous service without a break or a holiday. He expressed the hope that Mr

Hughes would send reinforcements to give a rest to those who were left of the 1st

Australian Division. It would make the men at the front more satisfied if they knew

that their mates in Australia were coming to give them a hand, but when they had to

fight on and on for three years at a stretch, it was little wonder that the men (those

who had not been killed or wounded) were despondent and despaired of ever seeing

their homes again.

At the time of writing he said that the British and Australians were pushing on in

Palestine and hoped to be in the holy city of Jerusalem before Christmas. The

advance from the Suez Canal, he wrote, was wonderful. Twelve months ago they

were 175 miles back and during the year they had advanced that distance across the

sand desert, building railways as they went, laying the mains for a water supply and

fighting the Turks the whole of the distance. He was right, the troops reached

Jerusalem before Christmas, but Sergeant Compton occupied a soldier’s grave on

the way, as did many other valiant Australians who went across for their country and

all that it meant to them and to those who remained behind.512 He was buried at

Case War Cemetery in Palestine.513

Compton, Sidney Bertie Private, No.5555 19th Battalion 15th Reinforcements Local connection: Dooralong, NSW Private Compton was a 23 year old single, Engineer residing at Dooralong when he

enlisted on April 29, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Sophia Compton of 12

Bennett Street, Hong Eaton at Nottinghamshire in England. He embarked at Sydney

on board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on September 9, 1916. He returned to Australia on

October 20, 1918.514

512 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, December, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 513 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 514 Ibid

126

Condron F. Private, Liverpool Depot, C Coy Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Condron was born at Gosford. His attestation paper only gives his name.

There was a warrant for his arrest issued on October 26, 1915 for desertion from the

Liverpool Depot. He deserted on September 27, 1915 approximately. He was

described as being 25 years and 10 months old Labourer, 5 feet 8¼ inches tall, dark

complexion, dark hair. He enlisted in Sydney on August 9, 1915.515

Conolly, Eric Richard* Private, No.2337A 3rd Battalion, 7th Reinforcement Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Conolly [in some records and newspaper reports mis-spelled Connelly or

Connolly] had connections to Ourimbah, and was born near Rockdale, Sydney.

Private Conolly [as his name was given at enlistment] was a 21 year old, Assistant

Shire Clerk when he enlisted on May 11, 1915. His next of kin was Mr Octavius B. E.

Conolly of Darlington Point, NSW. Private Conolly embarked on HMAT A67 “Orsova”

on July 14, 1915. He was killed in action on July 26, 1916 at Pozieres, Somme,

France.516 He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Villers-

Bretonneaux Memorial in France.517

The Gosford Times of September 1, 1916 recorded that Mr O. B. E. Connelly, Shire

Clerk at Darlington Point, has received a cable from the military authorities stating

that his son, Eric, had been killed in action in France on July 26. Private Connelly

enlisted in March, 1915 and was four months in Gallipoli and took part in the historic

evacuation. He left with the first of the Anzacs for France. The telegram announcing

the young hero’s death was received by his parents on the eve of his birthday,

August 19, when he would have reached the age of 23 years. “Our one consolation

is that he died fighting for the liberty of his country, but even that does not take the

sting out of our loss” said his father. The late Private Connolly was well known in the

515 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 516 NAA; B2455 Conolly, E R 517 http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1459398/CONOLLY,%20ERIC%20RICHARD

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Gosford district, residing with his parents at Ourimbah. His next of kin was his father

Mr O. B. E. Connolly acted as Shire Councillor for several years and occupied the

position of President, Erina Shire.518

Connelly, William Martin Private, No.4749 30th Battalion, 13th Reinforcements Local connection: Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Connelly was born at Hawkesbury River. He was a 30 year old single,

Labourer when he enlisted on November 11, 1916. His next of kin was his mother

Frances Connelly of 53 Military Rd, Neutral Bay in Sydney. He served just two week

in the Citizens Military Forces (C.M.F.) when he transferred to the Australian Imperial

Forces. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A68 “Anchises” on January 24,

1917.519 He returned to Australia on January 2, 1919.520

Cook, Arthur Private, No.59302 A.B.D. Headquarters Local connection: Webb’s Creek, near Wisemans Ferry, Hawkesbury River, NSW Private Cook was a 19 year old single, Farmer when he enlisted on May 31, 1918.

His next of kin was his brother Albert Cook of Milton Farm at Bombara via

Coonamble in New South Wales. Private Cook resided at Webb’s Creek via

Wiseman’s Ferry. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A30 “Borda” on July

17, 1918.521 He returned to Australia on August 1, 1919.522

518 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, September, 1. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 519 National Archives, 2013, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records 520 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 521 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 522 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

128

Cook, James Private, No.W14314 Tunnellers Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Cook was born at Gosford. He was a 47 year old single, Miner when he

enlisted on May 29, 1917.523 He does not appear to have left Australia, and was

discharged over age on August 10, 1917.

Coombe, Ernest Albert Edward Gunner, No.2701 Divisional Ammunition Column Local connection: Wyong, NSW Gunner Coombe was a 21 year old single, telegraphist when he enlisted on August

29, 1914. His next of kin was John Coombe of Himmers Post Office at Matta Matta in

New Zealand. He embarked from Brisbane on board HMAT A22 “Rangatira” on

September 25, 1914. He was wounded in action on July 22, 1915 at Gallipoli, and

presumably following treatment embarked on HMAT “Ulysses” for return home. He

was medically discharged on March 3, 1916.524

Word had been received by The Gosford Times [published on August 20, 1915] of

the death of Private Ernest Coombe, who was at one time employed at the Wyong

Post Office.525 However, The Gosford Times a short time later [on October 22, 1915]

printed the following article about Private Coombe of Wyong, who recently returned

wounded from the war, paid a visit on Sunday. He was looking well despite his

Gallipoli experiences. He did not know whether it was on account of being wounded,

but the young ladies took after him. He had very soft pillows and the affection shown

was quite sisterly.526

The Gosford Times of November 29, 1915 stated that the Wyong Literary Institute:

was crowded on a Tuesday evening when the local Recruiting Association

entertained Private Coombe, who recently returned home wounded from the

523 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 524 NAA; B2455, Coombe E A E 525 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, August 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 526 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, October, 22. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

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Dardanelles at a conversazione. Councillor Wilkinson presided and had with him on

the platform in addition to the guest of the evening the Rev. Professor Macintyre,

who gave a most eloquent address on the war, Corporal Lawler, Rev. Mr Cowie, Dr

Tomlinson and Mr Street, Mr J. Kay and Mr Ling.

At the conclusion of a short, but enjoyable programme of vocal and instrumental

music and recitations contributed by Miss Susie Kay, Mrs C. Walters, Miss Ruby

Tarrant and Mr A. Richards, Mr Viney, Mr Wilkinson and Mr Colley, a handsome gold

medal was presented to Private Coombe on behalf of the Association by Professor

Macintyre, who congratulated the recipient on his manliness and courage in

responding so early in the conflict to the Empire’s call and he earnestly exhorted the

young men of Wyong to follow the example of the comrade they had assembled to

honour and enlist without delay.

Private Coombe, who walked with the aid of a stick, on rising to return thanks, was

greeted with prolonged applause, but being a typical Australian soldier, his speech

was brief and very modest and he probably faced the audience with less confidence

than he did the deadly fire of the Turks at Gallipoli. However, he too, urged the boys

at home to join their mates in the trenches, where he spent many weeks before

being wounded. At the conclusion of his speech, three ringing cheers were given for

this happy warrior at the instance of Professor Macintyre and on the motion of Rev.

Mr Cowie a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the Rev. Professor himself, for his

finely delivered address.

A collection [was made] to augment the funds of the Recruiting Association were

taken up by Mr Cooper and Corporal Lawler and a very pleasant evening concluded

with the singing by all present of Rule Britannia and the National Anthem.527

527 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, November, 29. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

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Cooper, Alice Mary Royal Red Cross 2nd Class Matron for Staff for No.1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” Local connection: Windsor, NSW Nurse Cooper was a 50 year old single nurse from Windsor when he enlisted on

June 12, 1915. His next of kin was her mother M. A. Cooper of “The Boulevard” at

Strathfield in Sydney. She embarked from the following vessels, Sydney on board

HMAT A67 “Orsova” on July 14, 1915. From Melbourne in Victoria on board No 1

Hospital Ship “Karoola” on December 18, 1915. From Sydney on board No 1

Hospital Ship “Karoola” on May 20, 1916. From Melbourne, Victoria, on board No 1

Hospital Ship “Karoola” on May 27, 1916. From Sydney on board No 1 Hospital

Ship “Karoola” on August 10, 1916.

She then embarked on from Melbourne in Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital

Ship “Karoola” on December 9, 1916. From Melbourne, Victoria, on board No 1

Hospital Ship “Karoola” on April 25, 1917. From Sydney on board No1 Hospital

Ship “Karoola” on September 10, 1917. From Melbourne in Victoria, on board No 1

Hospital Ship “Karoola” on September 12, 1917. From Melbourne in Victoria, on

board No 1 Hospital Ship Karoola on 23 January 1918. From Melbourne in Victoria,

on board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on March 23, 1918. From Melbourne in

Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on June 12, 1918. From Melbourne

in Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on September 18, 1918. From

Melbourne in Victoria, on board No 1 Hospital Ship “Karoola” on February 26, 1919.

She was awarded the Royal Red Cross 2nd Class (RRC) medal as per

“Commonwealth Gazette” No.116, July 25, 1917

Cooper, William James Frederick Private, No.6139 3rd Battalion 19th Reinforcements Local connection: Woy Woy Bay, NSW Private Cooper was an 18 year old single, Labourer when he enlisted on February

28, 1916. His next of kin was his father James F. Cooper of Woy Woy. He resided

131

with his father. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A18 “Wiltshire” on August

22, 1916.528

The Gosford Times recorded that Mrs A. Cooper of Woy Woy Bay received

information that her only son was in Alexandria Hospital in Cosham suffering from

severe trench feet.529 In another article Mr and Mrs J. Cooper of Woy Woy Bay have

been officially notified that their only son was in Berrington War Hospital with a

severe gunshot wound in the back received on August 31, 1918.530 He returned to

Australia on January 14, 1919.531

Cork, John Charles Private, No.7219 9th Battalion 24th Reinforcements Local connection: Richmond, NSW Private Cork was a 24 year old single, Plumber from Richmond when he enlisted on

November 17, 1916. His next of kin was his mother I. Cork of Felix St at Charters

Towers in Queensland. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A33 “Ayrshire”

on January 23, 1917. He returned to Australian on November 25, 1917.

Cornwell, Sidney Gordon Private, No.19256 7th Field Artillery Brigade Local connection: Narara, NSW Private Cornwell was employed by the Narara Viticultural Nursery.532 He was a 30

year old single, Clerk when he enlisted on December 13, 1915. His next of kin was

his father John William Cornwell of “Livenside” of 3 Hampden St, Ashfield in Sydney.

528 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 529 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, January, 18. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 530 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, September, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 531 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 532 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, September, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

132

He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8 “Argyllshire” on May 11, 1916.533 He

returned to Australia on May 6, 1919.534

Costello, William Robert Private, No.384 2nd Battalion D Company Local connection: Woy Woy, NSW Private Costello was a 24 year old single Fisherman residing at c/o Mrs Ada

Costello, GPO, Woy Woy. His next of kin was his mother Ada Costello of Woy Woy.

He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A23 “Suffolk” on October 18, 1914. He

returned to Australia on October 23, 1918.535

Cottrill, Arthur William Private, No.7698 13th Battalion, 26th Reinforcements Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Cottrill was born at Ourimbah. He was a 23 year old single, Bushman when

he enlisted on January 7, 1918. His next of kin was his father William Cotterill also of

Ourimbah. He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A54 “Runic” on March 22, 1918.536

He returned to Australia on July 1, 1919.537

Coull, Sydney Archibald* Private, No.2151 13th Battalion B Company Local connection: Narara, NSW Private Coull was from Narara. He was 28 year old single, Railway Night Officer

when he enlisted on February 28, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Mary

Agnes Coull of Narara. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A18 “Wiltshire”

on August 29, 1916. He was killed by a shell while he was in the trench on August

533 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 534 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 535 Ibid 536 National Archives, 2014, op cit.. 537 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

133

29, 1917 at Warneton near Messines Ridge in Belgium and his name is recorded on

Menin Gate.538

The Gosford Times of September 27, 1917 recorded that word was received by Mrs

A. Coull on September 14, through Rev. Father Kelly, that her youngest son was

killed in action on August 29, 1917, in Belgium. He was for many years a relief officer

in the Railway Department, a position he resigned three years earlier to take up the

study of opera singer. His teacher, Mr Alfred Hill, of Sydney, predicted a brilliant

career for the young singer, his voice being a robust tenor. After studying about 18

months, he responded to the call and enlisted in January 1916, sailing on August 22.

He went into action in January and fought in the Somme and Messines battles, after

which he was transferred to the glorious 13th Battalion. With the exception of a few

weeks in hospital suffering from trench fever, the young soldier was in action till

August 29 last, when he was killed in action.539

Coulter, Robert Irvine Lucas (“Bert”) Private, No.1397 36th Battalion, C Company Local connection: Narara, NSW Private Coulter was born at Gosford. He was a 28 year old single, Carpenter when

he enlisted on September 11, 1915. His next of kin was his father Robert Coulter of

Gosford. He previously served four years in the Rifles Reserves. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A72 “Beltana” on May 13, 1916.540 He returned to Australia

on July 31, 1918.541

The Gosford Times of July 5, 1917 reported that Private Coulter was from Gosford

and it was reported that he had been wounded in France.542 In The Gosford Times of

November 19, 1915 Albert Coulter was named in “Roll of Honour list 1915 of names

538 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 539 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, September, 27. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 540 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 541 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 542 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, July, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

134

of those local residents who served.543 The Gosford Times of October 3, 1918

announced that Private Coulter had arrived home from the war on Saturday last.544

The Gosford Times of October 31, 1918 recorded that on Monday evening a

welcome home under the Girl’s Patriotic Society was tendered to Private Coulter. He

looked remarkably well and it must have been gratifying to him to see such a large

attendance present. Proceedings opened with a vocal and musical programme, the

selection of which was in the capable hands of Miss E. Campbell and this young lady

was to be commended for her choice of artists. Individual praise of the contributions

was superfluous as acquitted them in a first-class manner and quite a number had to

respond to encores.

The following contributed; Overture Mrs O. C. Ogden (mandolin), Miss Mason

(piano) and Mr J. Grieves (violin); song, Miss M. Guerin; recitation, Mr C. Hills; violin

solo, Mr J. Grieves; song, Miss Ursula Mason; song. Mrs A. I. Chapman; pianoforte

solo, Mrs F. Cohen; song, Mr A. Harvey; recitation, Mr C. Hills; song, Miss M. Guerin

and a capital violin solo, “Home Sweet Home” by Mr J. Grieves, accompanied by

Miss Mason concluded the programme.

Mr F. R. Archbold occupied the chair and in a brief and pointed speech, explained

the object of the gathering referring to the heroic deeds of the returned hero they had

welcomed that evening. Mr F. C. Stayner, Mr J. J. Fagan, Mr A. J. Davies and Mr C.

Hills also spoke in laudatory terms of the deeds of the returned hero. Rev. A.

Renwick then presented Private Coulter with an inscribed gold medal. An outburst of

applause greeted the guest as he rose to respond. Private Coulter said that he felt it

impossible to adequately convey his feelings and the welcome that had been

extended to him that evening by the good people of Gosford. Life in the trenches he

said had its pleasures and well as its hardships and if given the opportunity nothing

would please him more than to be there again. In conclusion he thanked them for the

presentation and the hearty welcome he received.

543 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, November, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 544 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, October, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W

135

Mr Archbold, during the evening proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies of the

Society, which was carried by acclamation. He also took the opportunity to apologise

for the absence of Mr R. J. Baker, who was representing in New South Wales at the

Adelaide Press Conference. Thanks to the committee were due to the Gosford Band

for their assistance at these functions. The National Anthem and cheers for the boys

at the front terminated one of the best functions of its kind held in Gosford.545

Cox, Clare Austin [Note also spelled in some records as Cocks] Private, No.740 18th Battalion Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Cox was from Gosford. He was a 23 year old single, Stockman when he

enlisted on June 1, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Susannah Cox of Gosford.

He previously served in E Company Australian Rifle Regiment (A.R.R.) militia. He

embarked from Sydney on HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on June 25, 1915. The

embarkation rolls has recorded that the original rolls stated his name as Clair A.

Cocks. On March 21, 1919 he left England for return to Australia on the “Kildonian

Castle”, and was disembarked at Sydney on April 5, 1919. 546

Cox, Edward King Standish# Private, No.164 4th Battalion, E Company Local connection: Wagstaffe Point, NSW Private Cox was from Wagstaffe Point and was the brother of Private Miles Standish

Cox. He was a 29 year old single, Station Hand when he enlisted on August 17,

1914. His next of kin was his father Mr E. S. Cox of Woy Woy. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on October 20, 1914. He died of pneumonia

in Egypt on December 13, 1914.547 His brother was Miles Standish Cox and his

sister was Mary Standish Cox.

545 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, October, 31. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 546 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 547 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.

136

The Gosford Times of February 26, 1915 recorded that thirty-three pounds

seventeen shillings and nine pence (£33/17/9) had been collected to perpetuate the

memory of the Cox brothers of Wagstaffe Point, members of the Expeditionary Force

who recently died in Egypt. The total included; No 1 Box three pounds one shillings

and threepence (£3/1/3). No 2 Box two pounds four shillings (£2/4/-). Lists W.

Hadley, ten pounds (£10), E. F. Cox ten pounds eleven shillings (£10/11/-), W. M.

Kenny four pounds eleven shillings and sixpence (£4/11/6), J. A. Beattie one pound

five shillings and sixpence (£1/5/6), A Davis sixteen shillings and sixpence (16/6), F.

Couche one pound one shilling (£1/1/-), A. Besle seven shillings (7/-). Rev. W. M.

Herford was honorary treasurer to the fund and Mr Hadley and Mr Kenny joint

honorary secretaries. When the new Church of England was erected at Wagstaffe a

memorial tablet was to be placed therein. In the meantime the tablet was erected in

the new Mission Hall in Woy Woy.548

In another article published in the same issue of The Gosford Times it was stated

that: [On] Sunday afternoon Mr J. Murphy kindly placed one of his ferry boats at the

disposal of the residents between Wagstaffe and Woy Woy for those who desired to

attend the memorial service held in the Church of England Mission Hall in Woy Woy.

The service was conducted by Rev. W. M. Herford, when the tablet erected to the

memory of the brothers Edward King and Miles Standish Cox who died in Egypt was

unveiled. There was present a very large attendance of all denominations being

represented while a squad of recruits in their khaki uniforms from Gosford gave the

ceremony a military and imposing effect. Mr Kirkness of Gosford during the service

gave a short inspiring address which was followed by the Rev. Hereford in the

delivery and appropriate sermon.

A full choir assisted and the Dead March was played by the organist, Mr A. M. Booth.

It was announced that half the collection taken up would be devoted to the branch of

the War Fund. The tablet bearing the inscription was a fine piece of workmanship.

This and the excellently conducted service and the large representative congregation

548 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, February, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

137

certainly impressed everyone precent with the prevailing earnestness and

sincerity.549 He was buried at Chatby War Memorial Cemetery in Egypt.550 Cox, Mary Standish Staff Nurse, Australian Army Nursing Service Local connection: Woy Woy, NSW Staff Nurse Cox was a 29 year old single, Trained Nurse residing at Woy Woy when

she enlisted on August 31, 1916. Her next of kin was her father E. S. Cox of Pretty

Beach. Nurse Cox embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A38 “Ulysses” on May 9,

1917. She returned to Australia on April 4, 1919.551 Her brother was Miles Standish

Cox and Edward King Standish Cox.

Cox, Miles Standish# Private, No.165 4th Battalion E Company Local connection: Wagstaffe Point, NSW Private Cox was from Wagstaffe Point and was a 23 year old single, Station Hand

when he enlisted on August 17, 1914. His next of kin was his father Mr E. S. Cox of

Woy Woy. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on October

20, 1914. He died of disease on December 16, 1914, in Egypt.552 Private Cox was

the brother of Private Edward King Standish Cox and his sister was Mary Standish

Cox.

The Gosford Times of February 26, 1915 recorded that Mr E. S. Cox received letters

from the Chaplain and from the Officer in Command of the Battalion of which his two

deceased sons belonged. The letter expressed sincere regret and sympathy for the

loss sustained by the parents and family, also he spoke highly of the popularity and

good conduct of the young soldiers, whom were assured had every possible care

and attention of the doctor and his nursing staff and were also given a military

549 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, February, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 550 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 551 Ibid 552 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.

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funeral, the full Company walking a considerable distance to pay their last respect to

their comrades. The public was also asked to subscribe towards a fund to be utilised

in a suitable manner in perpetuating the brother’s memory.553 He was buried at Cairo

War Memorial Cemetery in Egypt.554

Cox, Rayden Kelso Private, No.1949 1st Australian Light Horse 13th Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Cox was a 27 year old single, Stockman residing at “Cora Lynn” in Gosford

when he enlisted on October 11, 1915. His next of kin was his father Frederick Cox

of “Cora Lynn” in Gosford. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A60 “Aeneas”

on December 20, 1915. He returned to Australia on September 25, 1919.555

Cragg, William* Private, No.2824 33rd Battalion Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Cragg was from Mann St, Gosford. He was a 29 year old married Carpenter

when he enlisted on November 6, 1916. His wife was Mrs Lily Cragg of Mann St,

Gosford and he had previous military experience in England. He embarked from

Sydney on board HMAT A72 “Beltana” on November 25, 1916. He was killed in

action at Passchendaele in Belgium and his name is recorded on Menin Gate.556

The Gosford Times of November 15, 1917 recorded that Mrs Cragg, late of Gosford,

was officially advised that her husband had been killed in action on October 12,

1917. Her address at the time of notification was 17 Swan St, Hamilton N. S. W.557 In

another article published on November 8, 1917, word was received on a Tuesday

553. Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, February, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W 554 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 555 Ibid 556 Gosford Library, 2013, Local History, www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/library/local_history 557 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 15. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

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morning that Private Cragg, who prior to enlisting was in business at Gosford, was

killed in action on October 12, 1917.558 Prior to enlisting he was employed at the

local railway refreshment rooms and subsequently commenced business for himself

as a fruiterer and grocer. He enlisted about 12 months earlier and was sent straight

to France. He left a widow who up to a few months earlier resided in Gosford.559

Crane, George Robert* Private, No.2810 13th Battalion 9th Reinforcement Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Crane was born at Wyong. He was a 21 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on July 19, 1915. His next of kin was his father Philip Crane and his mother

was Eliza of Wyong. Private Crane previously served 2½ years in 16th Infantry militia.

He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8 “Argyllshire” on September 30,

1915.560 He was killed in action on April 11, 1917. He has no known grave and is

buried at the Australian National Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux.561

Crane, Hector Phillip^ Private, No.2339 3rd Battalion 7th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Crane was from Wyong. He was a 23 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on May 10, 1915. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A67 “Orsova”

on June 14, 1915. He was the son of Mr and Mrs P. Crane of McPherson’s estate

and was the brother of George Robert Crane. He was killed in March, 1917 by being

crushed by a shell when it buried him on the Somme in France.562 He was buried at

the Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Extension in France.563

558 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 559 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 560 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 561 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 562 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 563 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

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Crane, John Thomas Private, No.2488 19th Battalion, 5th Reinforcements Local connection: Tuggerah, NSW Private Crane was a 26 year old single, Timber Cutter and resided at Tuggerah

when he enlisted on June 7, 1915. His next of kin was his father William Crane of

Tuggerah. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A32 “Themistocles” on

October 5, 1915.564 He returned to Australia on July 4, 1919.565

Crane Phillip Patrick (Toby) ^ Private, No.7224, 1st Battalion, 24th Reinforcements Local connection: Ourimbah, NSW Private Crane was from Ourimbah. He was a 23 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on January 23, 1917. His next of kin was his father W. Crane of Ourimbah.

He embarked from Sydney on board RMS “Osterley” on February 10, 1917.566 The

Gosford Times of March 15, 1917 reported that Mr W. Crane senior had a letter from

his son at Durban. Toby said he was on his way to the fighting line to help his

brothers.567

The Gosford Times of November 8, 1917 reported that news had been received that

Private Crane had died of wounds somewhere in France, a cable to that effect

having been received by Rev. A. P. Hanington, Rector of Wyong. He was the

youngest son of Mr W. Crane of Ourimbah and sailed from Australia in February

1917.568 On October 13, 1917 he suffered a gunshot wound to the chest at

Passchendaele in Belgium and he died of his wound on October 25, 1917 at the 7th

Canadian General Hospital at Estaples in France.569 In The Gosford Times of

November 8, 1917 it was stated that: Two brothers of Private Crane were still in the

564 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 565 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 566 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 567 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, March, 15. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 568 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 569 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

141

firing line on the western front. “Toby” Crane was very popular in both Ourimbah and

Ourimbah Creek.570 He was buried at Estaples Military Cemetery in France.571

Crane, Robert George* Lance-Corporal, No.2810 4th Machine Gun Battalion Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Crane was from Wyong. He was a 21 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on July 19, 1915. He was the son of Mr and Mrs P. Crane of McPherson’s

Estate in Wyong. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A8 “Argyllshire” on

September 30, 1915. He was killed in action when he was shot through the head on

April 11, 1917 at the Somme in France.572 He was the brother of Hector Crane, who

was killed in March, 1917.573 Mr Crane senior had notification from the military

authorities that his son had been wounded and was also suffering from shell

shock.574 He has no known grave and is name is inscribed at the Australian National

Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux in France.575

Crane, Walter Ramos Private, No.436 20th Battalion A Company Local connection: Wyong, NSW Private Crane was from Wyong.576 He was a 34 year old single Patrol Officer when

he enlisted on April 22, 1915. His next of kin was his father Mr Crane of Wharf Rd, at

Mosman in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A35 “Berrima” on

June 25, 1915.577 He returned to Australia on December 18, 1918.578

570 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 571 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 572 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 573 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, May, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 574 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, September, 29. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 575 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 576 National Archives, 2013, www.naa.gov.au/collection/explore/defence/service-records 577 Ibid 578 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

142

Crane, William James Private, No. 1681 17th Battalion 2nd Reinforcements Local connection: Tuggerah, NSW Private Crane resided in Tuggerah.579 He was a 29 year old single, Sleeper Cutter

when he enlisted on May 31, 1915.He was the son of W. J. Crane of Tuggerah

Lakes. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A23 “Suffolk” on July 28, 1915.580

The Gosford Times of November 2, 1916 reported that Mr Crane senior received a

cable from the military authorities stating that his son, Private W. J. Crane had been

severely wounded in France. He enlisted about fifteen months earlier and was sent

to Egypt. From there he was ordered to Gallipoli with a machine gun detachment and

fought until the evacuation. Later on he was sent to France.581 He returned to

Australia on April 8, 1919.582

Crawford, Edwin Private, No.6301 2nd Machine Gun Battalion Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Crawford was born at Gosford. He was a 29 year old single, Driver when he

enlisted on October 16, 1916. His next of kin was his sister Edith Wilson of “Beryl

Cottage” at Dulwich Hill in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A29

“Suevic” on November 11, 1916.583 He returned to Australia on January 18, 1919.584

579 New South Wales Electoral Rolls 1915-1917 (Commonwealth Division) Seat of Robinson microfiche 580 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 581 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1916, November, 2. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 582 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, www. aif.adfa.edu.au 583 National Archives, 2014, op cit. 584 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

143

Crawford, Reginald Edward* Private, No.2292 34th Battalion 4th Reinforcements Local connection: Warnervale, NSW Private Crawford was from Warnervale. He was a 19 year old single, Labourer when

he enlisted on March 18, 1916. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Lillian Crawford

and his father was Charles of Goulburn St in Sydney. His previous military

experience was with the compulsory cadets. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A30 “Borda” on October 17, 1916. On February 13, 1917 he was admitted to

hospital in England suffering from influenza and on May 26 1917 he was admitted to

hospital with osteoma of the femur and re-joined his unit on August 7, 1917. He was

killed in action on September 18, 1918 in France.585 He was buried at the Jeancourt

Communal Cemetery Extension in France.586

Cross, Frederick John Private, No.7458 2nd Battalion, 25th Reinforcements Local connection: Wisemans Ferry, NSW Private Cross was born at Wiseman’s Ferry. He was a 42 year old married Farmer

when he enlisted on March 24, 1917. His wife was Mary Teresa Cross of 244

Edgewater Rd, Enmore in Sydney. He was previously rejected for deficient teeth.587

He embarked from Sydney on HMAT A20 “Hororata” on June 14, 1917. He returned

to Australia on June 6, 1918.588

Cross, Percy Alfred Private, No.5358 4th Battalion 17th Reinforcements Local connection: Wisemans Ferry, NSW Private Cross was born at Wiseman’s Ferry. He was a 25 year old single, Labourer

when he enlisted on January 23, 1916. His next of kin was his father Charles David

Cross of Wiseman’s Ferry. He was previously rejected because of his teeth. He

585 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 586 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 587 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 588 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

144

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40 “Ceramic” on April 14, 1916.589 He

returned to Australia on April 8, 1917.590

Crowe, Henry Matthew. Militaire Medal (Belgium) Private, No.6237 2nd Battalion 20th Reinforcements Local connection: Wyee, NSW Private Crowe was a 23 year old single Musician from Wyee when he enlisted on

February 7, 1916. His next of kin was his sister Mrs N. Townsend of Market St at

Brighton in England. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A14 “Euripides” on

September 9, 1916. He was awarded the Militaire Medal of Belgium as per

“Commonwealth Gazette” No.135 on December 11, 1919. He returned to Australia

on May 31, 1919.591

Crowley, George Private, No.1983 31st Battalion 3rd Reinforcements Local connection: Richmond, NSW Private Crowley was a 30 year old single, Sleeper Cutter from Richmond when he

enlisted on November 7, 1915. His next of kin was his father George Thomas

Crowley of Richmond. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A70 “Ballarat” on

February 18, 1916. He returned to Australian on April 8, 1919.592

Culla, Aloysius Private, No.3379 56th Battalion 9th Reinforcements Local connection: Morisset, NSW Private Culla was born at Morisset. He was a 33 year old single, Groom when he

enlisted on January 1, 1917. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Margaret Culla of

Maitland Rd, Wickham in Newcastle.593 He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT

589 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 590 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 591 Ibid 592 Ibid 593 National Archives, 2013, op cit.

145

A68 “Anchises” on January 24, 1917. He returned to Australia on December 19,

1918.594

Cullen, Harold Joseph Private, No.39 1st Light Horse Field Ambulance A Squadron Local connection: Hawkesbury Agricultural College, Richmond NSW Private Cullen was a 27 year old single, Motor Mechanic of the Hawkesbury College

at Richmond when he enlisted on August 24, 1914. His next of kin was his mother

Hannah Cullen of 7 Clarendon Mews at Hyde Park Square in London, England. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A27 “Southern” on September 23, 1914. He

returned to Australia on January 11, 1919.595 His brother was Stanley Cullen

Cullen, Stanley Driver, No.38 1st Australian Light Horse A Squadron Local connection: Hawkesbury Agricultural College, Richmond NSW Private Cullen was a 24 year old single, Student of the Hawkesbury College at

Richmond when he enlisted on August 24, 1914. His next of kin was J W Cullen of 7

Clarendon Mews at Hyde Park in London, England. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A27, “Southern” on September 23, 1914. He returned to Australia on

January 26, 1919.596 His brother was Harold Joseph Cullen.

Cullerne, William Edward Gunner, No.11460 5th Field Artillery Brigade 3rd Reinforcements Local connection: Saratoga, NSW Gunner Cullerne was a 21 year old single Railway Porter residing at c/o Miss A

Scazo, Carwok in Saratoga. His next of kin was his father E. T. Cullerne of 13

Portland Road at Mosley Hill, Liverpool in England. He embarked from Sydney on

594 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 595 Ibid 596 Ibid

146

board RMS “Osterley” on January 15, 1916. Records show that he was still

overseas.597

Cunliffe, Alfred James Private, No.9136 6th Broad Gauge Railway Operating Company Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Cunliffe was born at Gosford. He was a 25 year old single, Railway Porter

when he enlisted on September 24, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Mrs J.

Cunliffe of Wamsley. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A61 “Kanowna” on

December 22, 1915.598 He returned to Australia on May 11, 1919.599

Cunningham James* Private, No.6298 1st Field Ambulance Brigade Army Medical Corps Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Cunningham was born at Gosford. He was a 24 year old single, Bank Clerk

when he enlisted on July 2, 1915. He attended the Gosford Public School. His next

of kin was his mother Mrs Elizabeth B. Cunningham of 35 Dalton St, Mosman Bay in

Sydney and his father was James.. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A17

“Port Lincoln” on October 13, 1915. On January 16, 1916 he was admitted to

hospital at Tel-el-ebir suffering from jaundice. On January 20, 1916 he was admitted

to hospital at Ghezireh with jaundice and on Jan 23, 1916 he was admitted to

hospital at 2nd Aux Con Dept. at Heliopolis suffering from influenza. He was killed in

action on August 17, 1916 at Contalmaison, Albert in France.600 He is buried at

Pozieres British Cemetery at Ovillers-La-Boisselle in France.601

597 Ibid 598 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 599 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 600 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit.. 601 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

147

Cunningham, George Private, No.9607 First Field Ambulance, Army Medical Corps Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Cunningham was born at Gosford. He was a 19 year old single, Clerk when

he enlisted on August 3, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Mrs Elizabeth B.

Cunningham of 35 Dalton Rd Mossman in Sydney and his father was Charles. He

embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A15 “Star of England” on March 8, 1916.602

He was a brother of Thomas Cunningham. He served on the Western Front and

returned to Australia on June 12, 1919.603

Cunningham, Thomas Private, Nos 1176 [1], 3620 [2], 85776 [3] 4th Field Ambulance Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Cunningham was born at Gosford. He was a 21 year old single, Carter when

he first enlisted on February 19, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Elizabeth

Cunningham of McPherson St, Mosman in Sydney and his father was Charles.

The Gosford Times of September 24, 1915 reported that Private Cunningham was in

the Heliopolis hospital. He took part in the Gallipoli battle and was wounded in the

right eye, necessitating two operations. A cable received on August 25, however,

stated that he was doing well and was recovering his eyesight.604

Following recovery in Sydney, Thomas reenlisted on April 10, 1917 in the 4th Field

Ambulance. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A74 “Marathon” on May 10,

1917.

On May 17, 1919, during peace time, Thomas Cunningham reenlisted for AIF

Special Service duty. He returned to Australia on HMAT “Ajana” on October 9,

1919.605 His brother was 9607 Private George Cunningham.

602 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 603 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 604 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1915, September 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 605 Ibid

148

Curtin, Leslie Joseph Private, No.1833 1st Pioneer Battalion, 2nd Reinforcements Local connection: Gosford, NSW Private Curtin was born at Gosford. He was a 26 year old married Woodworker when

he enlisted on January 3, 1916. His next of kin was his sister-in-law w Agnes Curtin

of 19 Mount St, Pyrmont in Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A40

“Ceramic” on April 14, 1916. 606 It is unknown when or if he returned to Australia.

Curtin, John Thomas Private, No.2047 36th Battalion 3rd Reinforcements Local connection: Catherine Hill Bay, NSW Private Curtin was a 32 year old married Ship Worker residing at the Mine Camp at

Catherine Hill Bay when he enlisted on April 17, 1916. His next of kin was his wife

Louisa Curtin of 150 Duke St at East Sydney. He embarked from Sydney on board

HMAT A68 “Anchises” on August 24, 1916. He returned to Australia on December

20, 1918.607

Curtis, Arthur Prior^ Sergeant, No.1326 1st Battalion, 2nd Reinforcement Local connection: Narara, NSW Sergeant Curtis was from Narara. He was a 26 year old single, Labourer when he

enlisted on November 18, 1914. His next of kin was his mother Mrs L. Gould of

Howd Green in Heckfield, Winchfield in England. He embarked from Sydney on

board HMAT A48 “Seang Bee” on February 11, 1915. On August 13, 1916 he

suffered a wound to the jaw from a bomb blast and was transferred to Alexandria.

On August 27, 1917 he was admitted to hospital suffering from trench fever and was

returned to his unit on September 10, 1917. On October 20, 1917 he suffered shell

wounds to his back, legs, heel and abdomen and he died of his wounds on October

606 National Archives, 2013, op cit. 607 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit.

149

22, 1917 at the 17th Casualty Clearing Station in Belgium.608 He was buried at the

Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery in Belgium.609

The Gosford Times of February 14, 1918 reported that Mr C. Hills, Manager of the

Commercial Bank had completed a memorial tablet to be presented to the Narara

Soldiers Recognition Association to the relative of Sergeant Curtis killed in action.

The tablet was an excellent likeness of the deceased soldier. The design which was

executed in water colour represented the typical Anzac in uniform bearing the

Australian ensign with a trumpeter seen in the outline against the dawn sounding the

“Last Post.”610 During the week Mrs A. White of Narara, received word that her

nephew Sergeant Curtis had been killed at the front. He enlisted from Narara. His

mother resided in England.611

608 Gosford Library, 2013, op cit. 609 Australian Imperial Force, 2014, op cit. 610 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1918, February, 14. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales 611 Baker Robert James, The Gosford Times, 1917, November, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State of New South Wales

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