The 17th Australian Infantry Brigade was an infantry brigade in the Australian Army. First formed in 1917 during World War I, it did not see any action. Reformed during World War II, before being disbanded in 1946. Today, its name is perpetuated by the 17th Combat Service Support Brigade, which was raised as a logistics formation in May 2006. The 17th Brigade was reformed on 13 October 1939, again as part of the 6th Division, recruited from Victoria. The 17th Brigade fought in the Western Desert Campaign in Libya, the Battle of Greece, the Battle of Wau, the Salamaua-Lae campaign in Papua, and in the Aitape-Wewak campaign in New Guinea. The photographs are of national significance as they may reflect the only known photographs of individuals from WW2.4 page newspaper pictures of 17th Brigade, Second AIFThe Argus 17th Australian Infantry Brigade, Second AIF, Souvenir Supplement, Thursday, February 22, 1940 Page 1 2/5th Battalion - Picture 1 Officers of the 2/5th Battalion; Picture 2 Senior NCO's of the 2/5th Battalion; Picture 3 A Company 2/5th Battalion Page 2 B Company 2/5th Battalion; C Company 2/5th Battalion; D Company 2/5th Battalion Page 3 Headquarters 2/2nd Field Regiment 6th Divisional Artillery; 3rd Battery 2/2nd Field Regiment 6th Divisional Artillery Page 4 Officers, NCO's and men of 2/2nd Field Company, 6th Divisional Engineers; Officers NCO's and men 2/2nd Field Ambulance and 2/2nd Australian General Hospital 6th Divisional Australian Army Medical Corpsaif, army, 17th brigade, second aif, 2/5th battalion, australian army, australian infantry brigade, 2/2nd field aumbulance, 2/2nd australian general hospital, 6th divisional australian army medical corps, 6th divisional engineers

The 67th Battalion was raised in mid 1912 as a local militia training battalion in Bendigo. During World War One, many of its members enlisted in the newly formed 38th Battalion which was raised in Bendigo in 1916. At one point it was a garrison battalion stationed at Queenscliff. It was disbanded in 1918 and became the area 38th Battalion. The colours were laid up in St Paul's Cathedral in Bendigo on October 25th 1929. In 2006, with the cathedral needing to carry out repairs and alterations, the colours were offered to Bendigo's Soldiers Memorial Institute Military Museum. On 17th April, 2007 under direction from RSM Ceremonial, the colours were re-laid up in the museum in a ceremony conducted by the Reverend Peta Sherlock and witnessed by church and RSL members after 12 months of planning and putting together..1) Middle banner in the photograph. Rectangular banner representing the colours of the 67th Battalion on an olive green background. In the centre is a circular red medallion featuring an embroidered battalion badge. A purple circular border with 'Bendigo Infantry' on it surrounds the red medallion. All are surrounded by a gold and silver wreath depicting the flowers and leaves of the golden wattle. '67' is embroidered on the top right hand corner. The banner is fringed on three sides in gold. Two cords with gold and olive tassels are attached to the top right hand corner. A sewn sleeve for the pike is on the right hand side. .2) Wooden pike with metal spear head on end. A metal ring encircles the handle of the pike.battalion colours, 67th battalion, military banners, unit badges

Newspaper Special Supplement printed by The Argus. A photographic record of all the battalions in the 17th Australian Infantry Brigade 2nd AIF. Photos are black & white, paper is very yellowed, 16 pages.documents - newspapers, military history - army, argus

2246 Pte, Clive Terril Rowe Born Melbourne. Enlisted 17th March 1916 in Sale Victoria, aged 18 years 5 months Pte. Rowe went from the 19th Depot Battalion to the 46th Battalion AIF. Departed Australia 16th August 1916 and returned to Australia 8th April 1919. He was discharged 15th June 1919. While overseas Pte. Rowe suffered trench feet, was wounded (shellshock) and chronic eczema. Pte. Rowe was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.British War Medal 1914-1920 Instituted by King George V in 1919 to mark the end of WW1 and record the service given.The circular medal is made of cupro nickel with the effigy of George V on the obverse. Around this are the words GEORGIVS V BRITT. OMN:REX ET IND:IMP: The reverse image has St. George on horseback trampling underfoot the eagle shield of the Central Powers and a skull and crossbones, the emblem of death. Above this is the risen sun of victory. The years 1914 and 1918 are contained on the outside edge of the medal. The ribbon has a wide central watered stripe of orange, flanked by two narrow white stripes which are in turn flanked by two black pinstripes, flanked by two outer stripes of blue. The colours have no particular significance. Along the rim of the medal is stamped 2245 PTE.C.T. ROWE. 46-BN. A.I.F.

This type of bayonet was used by infantry Rifle Regiments of the British Army and by Infantry Battalions of the Australian State Defence Forces in the 1890's; then by some infantry battalions of the Australian Army especially in a ceremonial roleThere is no record found of this type bayonet frog in use by 4th/17th/19th Light Horse Regiments. Use by VMR (the colonial predecessor to 4th/17th/19th Light Horse Regiments) is unlikely. Bayonet, Scabbard and Pattern 1892 Bayonet Frog on Sam Brown Belt on Jack's mannequin. Bayonet frog made of 'buff' leather, and stained brown on the front. Hand stitched with reinforcing tin plated copper rivetsold hand writing illegiblebayonet frog 1892 1888 buff leather, bayonet and scabbard of usual materials,

This letter was sent to Mr. Frank Tickle Esquire in Warracknabeal, in Victoria, to inform him that his son Lieutenant Frank William Tickle,M.C. 8th Battaslion, had been awarded the Military Cross. With reference to the award conferred as announced in the London Gazette dated 26th November, 1917. "For conpicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in an attack. He led his company throughout with such fearless disregard of danger as to inspire his men to great effort. When they came under heavy shell fire he halted his men in shell holes, and went out to a flank and engaged the enemy with a machine gun. During the fight for the final objective he was again heavily opposed by a machine gun. He led his men forward with great gallantry and personally killed the entire gun crew and successfully captured the position. He set a splendid example of courage and determination."Letter in brown wooden frame with the Battalion colour patch attached to wooden surround under the glass.The letter has the Commonwealth of Australia emblem on the top of the page and was issued by the Department of Defence on the 17th September 1918, to notify Lieutenant F.W. Tickle's father the he had been awarded the Military Cross. It also has the citation for which the Military Cross was awarded. The paper backing on the frame is detiorating.world war one, letter, citation, military cross, lieutenant frank william tickle, m c, 30th august 1918, commonwealth of, australia, department of defence, frank tickle esquire, commonwealth of australia gazette, no 137, london gazette 26th november, 1917

Born 5th October 1895 in Adavoyle, United Kindom Occupation Grocer and later horticulturalist Married after WW1- Wife - Daisy Florence Barclay World War One Staff Sergeant Regimental Number 2139 Enlisted AIF in Melbourne 29th December 1914, having previously served 3 months with the Ulster Volunteers and to camp Broadmeadows, to depot Battalion 29th December 1914. Embarked from Melbourne for the middle East with 3rd reinforcement group for the 5th Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 1st Division, 25th February 1915 per transport 'Runic'. Disembarked Alexandria and to camp Heliopolis, Egypt. Operation Gallipoli from 5th May 1915 with 5th Battalion. Sick with dental problems 2nd Field Ambulance 17th September 1915. To hospital Lemnos 20th December 1915. To Alexandria hospital with pluerisy 12th January 1916. Returned to Australia with enteric per 'Nestor' 9th February 1916.To duty Broadmeadows 4th April 1916. Wmbarked with 4th reinforcements group for the 58th Battalion, 15th Brigade per transport 'Themistocles' 1st August 1916 Returned to England 14th September 1916. Operations France and Flanders from 6th December 1916. To 59th Battalion 29th December 1916. To 5th Division Infantry School 18th February to 28th March 1917 as Lance Corporal. Corporal 7th April 1917. Sergeant 2nd May 1917. To 3rd Southern General Hospital Oxford 4th October 1917. Returned to Melbourne per Transport 'Persic' 12th February 1918. Discharged 14th March 1918. Second World War. Regimental Number V5571 Emlisted in the Australian Military Forces in Royal Park, Melbourne 22nd August 1940 and to 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, Fyansford. Staff Sergeant 24th August 1940. To 2/14th Training Battalion Wangaratta 11th October 1940. To 2/23rd Training Battalion, Wangaratta 18th October, 1940.To Southern Command Training School 26th May 1941.to Camp Bonegilla 15th May 1942. To Camp Caulfield 11th November 1942. Discharged to Reserve Occupation 19th November 1942. Remarks. Awarded 1915-15 Star, British War Medal, and Victory Medal 1914-1919 Awarded Distinguished Conduct Medal as Lance Corporal vide London Gazette 30111 of 31st July 1918. Citation for action on 9th July 1917 during the third Battle of Ypres reads- " For conspicous gallantry and devotion to duty. He rendered invaluable service during operation in carrying important messsages through heavy fire" Awarded War Medal and Australian Service Medal 1939-45 in 1951. Described as 71.5inches tall, medium complexion, blue eyes and brown hair. He died 11th September 1962.WW1 - Distinguished Conduct Medal 1914/15 Star 1914/18 British War Medal Victory Medal WW11 - 1939/45 British War Medal Australian Service Medal 1939/45 All medals with associated coloured ribbons. These are replica medals made in the exact metals as the originals. Also in display is a record of War Service which can be found in the narrative. Noneservice, medal, 1918, citation, ww1, military, gazette, london, ww11, medals, 30111, 31st, july, ypres, distinguished

One white sheet of folded paper with the title, '17th Brigade & 3/38 Infantry Battalion. Senior Cadets' Championship Sports Official Programme 3d. Upper Reserve Tuesday, 30th March, 1920. at 1 pm.' A. & A. Brockley Print, Bendigo.program, sporting event, 17th brigade & 3/38th infantry batt, lydia chancellor, collection, athletics, sports, army, event, programme, program, championships

Leo Charles Roy Pallamountagne was born at Moyhu, Vic, Aus. and at the time of WW 1 was employed as a farm hand on the property of Mrs Ellen McCormack (nee Power) at Ovens Vale, Victoria, Australia. Ellen's husband, John McCormack, had deceased 1916. Leo was born at Moyhu, Vic. 1899. He enlisted for service abroad on 30/8/1916 and was posted to the 21st Battalion, Serial No. 6829. Leo's next of kin was nominated as Clara Pallamountagne of Benalla, Victoria. Leo's father was listed as "whereabouts unknown" at the time of Leo's enlistment. Leo was wounded in action in France, Oct 1917. Leo returned to Australia on 10th March 1919 and was discharged on 17th April the same year. Leo (or Leon) married Evelyn Mary Paxman in 1922, they had seven children. Leo died on 23rd April, 1941 at the Military Hospital, Caulfield. Address in 1931 was Pier Street, Dromana. Occupation, Civil Servant Address in 1936 was Tresco, Victoria, Occupation, OrchardistMemorabilia of Leo Pallamountagne War Service on Western Front, France, 1917. Postcard of card and light gauze cloth upon which is embroided six flags in national colours flanking a rising sun plus wording in red on a blue ribbon flourish "For Liberty and Justice 1917"Hand written in pencil Addressed to Mrs J McCormack, Ovens Vale, Victoria, Australia. "France Sept 1917 To the Company just a few lines hoping you are all well as it leaves me at present There is not news here at present but will write again, Your true Friend Leo, Pallamountagnepallamountagne. western front. postcard.

Discharge certificate dated 18.5.1919 belonging to Private Ernest LUCAS 88399 Royal Defence Corps Middlesex Regiment who enlisted in London on 7.6.1907Off white coloured cardboard document with black and red printing88379 Private Ernest LUCAS Dept Royal Defence Corps - Middlesex Regiment. Enlisted London on 17th of June 1907 and discharged on 18th of May 1919.ernest lucas, 6th battalion middlesex regiment

Photograph of soldiers taken circa 11 October 1914 All enlisted on the 17th of August, 1914 at Wangaratta unless stated otherwise, assigned to the 7th Battalion C Company and identified as follows:- Colour Sergeant William Baker 290 - Prior to enlistment at Essendon was serving with the 58th Battalion. He embarked Australia on the 21/10/14. Brothers Charles POWLEY 347 and John Hall POWLEY 348 from Boweya - Embarked 19/10/14 on HMAT Hororata. Charles aged 21 years KIA 25/4/15 at Gallipoli and John returned to Australia on 31/10/15. Charles attended Wangaratta High School. John Crocker 346 was born at Clunes and enlisted at Broadmeadows. He was 36 years old, a butcher by trade and served with the 2nd Scottish Horse in the Boer War. His mother was listed as next of kin residing in Bracknell Tasmania He was wounded at Gallipoli and discharged on 19/1/1917 Nelson Albert Hardy 363 Born in England and a butcher by trade .KIA 23/8/1915 at Gallipoli aged 22 Edward Fahey 364 Ovens Street Wangaratta, Aged 29 years, a Painter by trade. He returned to Australia in December 1915 and appointed a Recruiting Sergeant. He resigned from this position on 8/5/1916, went AWOL and on 21/7/1920 discharged due to desertion. Joseph Cowham 360 enlisted at Broadmeadows on 19/8/1914. Thomas Peter Williams 404 - Aged 24 and a Blacksmith. He received a gunshot wound to the wrist on 26/5/1915 and returned to Australia. Joseph Nathaniel O'Brien 376 or John William O'Brien 365 both of Rowan Street Wangaratta Handwritten on rear “Wangaratta Boys C Company 7th Battalion October 11th 1914 From Private John Crocker 346”Sepia photograph of 11 men six standing and five kneeling dressed in military uniform wearing forage cap with row of pine trees in background. Photograph is mounted on brown cardboard with handwriting across top border.Rear - Wangaratta Boys C Company 7th Battalion October 11th 1914 From Private John Crocker 346 Front - list of names handwritten in ink J Powly, Col Serg Baker? Corp Naldress?, Private Couham?, C Powly, L Williams N Hardy J Crocker, E Lahy?, J?? K Jarrot? wangaratta, c company, joseph cowham 360, nelson hardy 363, john crocker 346, charles powley 347, john powley 348, hororata, gallipoli, edward fahey 364, thomas peter williams 404, william baker 290, joseph nathaniel o'brien 376, john william o'brien 365, ww1, 7th battalion

W.W.I. Star Medal awarded to Private Frederick Turner.|From the Returned Services League, Mitcham Sub - Branch located at 26 McDowall Street Mitcham, cnr Harrison Street. Branch closed early 2014.1914-15 Star Medal with attached ribbon sitting on a red felt square with information as follows:|'Private Frederick Turner; No. 265 22nd Battalion AIF Enlisted 8th February 1915; Killed in Action aged 34; 17th November 1916.|'Remembered with Honour at the A.I.F. Burial Ground, Flers, Somme, France.|'Born in Collingwood, he was living at 62 Pelham Street, Carlton prior to enlisting..as abovemilitary history, army, numismatics, medals - military

Henry William Frisch was born at Warrnambool to H.W. and Sarah Frisch. He iniitally served with the 8th Battallion, was transferred to the 59th Battalion on 26 February 1916, then to the 58th Battalion on 15 May 1916 served with the 59th Battalion during World War One. He had the regimental number 3054. At the time of his enlistment on 8 June 1915 he had worked as a butter box maker at MvcGennan's of Warrmabool. On 26 February 1916 he was at Tel-el-Kebir, Egypt. On 17 June 1916 he embarked on the H.T. Translyvania from Alexandria and disembarked at Marseilles on 23 June 1916. On 14 September 1917 he was furloughed to England, rejoining his battalion on 05 October 1917. On 16 October 1917 Henry Frisch was wounded in the field with shrapnel wounds to the back and neck and multiple shrapnel wounds penetrating the abdomen. He died of wounds received on 17 October 1917 aged 23 yeard. He was buried at Lyssenthoek Military Cemetery (Plot 21. Row H. Grave 19A). The ceetery is south west Poperinghe, Begium. "IN MEMORIAM. ON ACTIVE SERVICE. FRISCH —In loving memory of our dear, son, Private H. W. Frisch, who died of wounds on 17th Oct., 1917, at the 17th Casualty Clearing, Station, France. No one knows how much we miss him, Friends may think the wound is healed; But they cannot see the sorrow, Deep within our hearts concealed. Just when life was brightest, Just when his hopes were best; His country called—he answered, Nows in God's home he rests. (Inserted by his loving parents, West Reserve, Warrnambool, his sisters and Stanley). FRISCH—In loving memory of my dear brother, Pte. H. W. Frisch, who died of wounds on 17th Oct., 1917, at the 17th Casualty Clear-ng Station, France. My hero brother. Sadly a sister is thinking, Of her soldier brother, so brave; Who fought for the cause of freedom, Who lies in a hero's grave. I seem, to see your face, dear Henry, Through a mist of anxious tears; And a sister's heart is broken, For many and many a year. One of Australia's dearest and best. Sadly missed by all. (Inserted by his loving sister, Ethel, East Melbourne). FRISCH—In loving memory of our dear brother, Henry William, who died of wounds in France, on 17th October, 1917. Not for the love of battle, Did he leave his dear homeland; He heard the call of duty, And responded like a man. —(Inserted by his loving sister and brother-in-law, France and Steve Ferrier) . FRISCH—In fond and loving memory of Private Henry Frisch, who died of wounds on active service 17th Oct., 1917. —(Fondly remembered by Mrs. Henry and family). (Warrnambool Standard, Thursday 17 October 1918.)Cut down photographic post card of Henry Wiliam Frisch. The photographer was located at 175 Collins St, Melbourne. Verso "Keith's uncle Henry Frisch killed WW1"world war one, henry frisch, belgium, warrnambool

Henri John ARCHER was born in Brunswick Victoria, Australia, on 27th May 1907, to parents William Thomas and Hetta (née LAWSON) ARCHER. In 1934, Henri married Stella Florence COLLER, and they had 3 children. Living in Balwyn, Victoria, and employed as an Insurance Superintendent, Henri commenced full-time duty as an officer in the Citizen Military Forces from 7th July 1940, until 20th February 1941 (number V7097). His appointment in the rank of Major with the 7th Infantry Battalion was due to him having served part time as an officer in the CMF since 1927. On 21st February 1941, Henri joined the Australian Imperial Force and was appointed as a Major, with the number VX39872. Following the completion of various armoured corps training courses at Puckapunyal, he was taken on strength with the 2nd/8th Armoured Regiment. On 17th April 1943, Henri embarked for service in New Guinea, for a period of 2 months. He again embarked on 3rd September 1943, for service in Rabaul, returning to Australia on 6th February 1944. Following the end of the War, on 8th May 1946, Henri was appointed as a member of the War Crimes Courts with HQ 8MD, and embarked for duty with the War Crimes Trials in Rabaul two days later. Henri returned to Australia on 15th August 1946, and was subsequently transferred to the Reserve of Officers (Armoured Corps) list for the 3rd Military District (Victoria) on 27th November 1946. He was awarded the Efficiency Decoration, as well as the 1939-45 Star, Pacific Star, 1939-45 War Medal and the Australia Service Medal. He was also issued Returned from Active Service Badge number A343705. Henri died in Melbourne on 27th July 1971, aged 64, and his ashes are interred in the Springvale Botanical Cemetery, Banksia Wall ZJ, Niche 01. (Compiled by Karan CAMPBELL-DAVIS from historical records kept by Births, Deaths and Marriages Victoria, the National Archives of Australia, and Find A Grave website. )Photograph mounted with timber frame. Some manuscript inscriptions of reverse.HENRI JOHN ARCHER / VX39872 / B 27 MAY 1907 / ENL 7 JULY 1940 / DISCH 26 NOV 1946 / OC A SQN 2/8 AAR [and] PURCHASED FROM EBAY / MAY 2024 [followed by signature undecipherable]wwii, armour, 2/8 armourned regiment, war crimes, rabaul, cmf

Soldier in Uniform George E Carter 28th Battalion Ascot Camp Belmont W.A. POST CARD to Ruth from Rolleston England. Yours truly, George E Carter W.A. 17th Reinforcements 28th Battn. Belmontsstawell ww1

Photograph of all the original Officers and men of the 11th. Battalion 3rd Brigade AIF. The group of over 685 soldiers are spread out over the side of the Great Pyramid of Khufu Cheops near Mina Camp.Framed colourised version of Original photograph titled ANZAC with inscribed plate describing the Scene. Inscribed Plate reads - "The 11th Battalion, Australian Infantry Force was raised at Black Boy Hill in Western Australia on 17th August 1914. Following a period of training of just two weeks, the Battalion embarked at Freemantle on the HMAT Ascanius on 2nd November 1914. The Ascanius formed part of a convoy of 38 Troopships carrying approximately 35,000 Australian and New Zealand troops and reached the Port of Alexandria Egypt on 2nd December 1914. After arriving in Egypt, the Battalion camped and trained at Mena, ten miles from Cairo, at the foot of the Great Pyramid Cheops. On 10th January 1915, prior to leaving Egypt a photograph of more than 800 original Officers and Men of the Battalion was taken at the Great Pyramid of Cheops on the 28th February 1915."

Wooden plaque with metal details of 2nd/17th Pipes & Drums

After the death of Stan Savige this address was given at the Canberra Conference in October 1954. It is tribute to his life. Sir Stanley Savige KBE : Commemorative Address Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra : October 1954. On the 15th of May this year Legacy learned to its enduring sorrow of the death of its Founder, Lieut. General Stanley George Savige KBE, CB, CBE, DSO, MC, ED, for more than 30 years affectionately known to us all as Legatee Stan Savige. He was the embodiment of all those things for which Legacy stands, and each one of us who knew him and worked with him feels a great and abiding sense of personal loss. It is proper, therefore, that those of us at this Conference, the first after his passing, representative of Legacy throughout the Commonwealth, and comprising so many who were his friends, so many who knew the depth of his love for Legacy, should acknowledge our debt to our Founder and ensure, so far as we may, that the inspiration of his life and work in this Cause shall not be lost to those who follow after. It was not ordained that Stanley George Savige - should enjoy a long life, but it was to prove a life of outstanding service. Born at Morwell in Victoria some 63 years ago, he received with his brothers and sisters such education as was then available to a lad in a mining district. He had no particular opportunities of advancement, but from his early days he cherished a strong ambition to make a success of his life, and with this in view he lost no opportunity of adding to his knowledge. Always a lover of the open country, a good bushman and a fine shot, he became as a young man, a Scoutmaster with a keen following of boys. Even in those early days he attracted youth and showed undoubted promise of the quality of leadership which later was to make him famous. Opportunity came with the first World War, and he took his place as a private soldier in the original 24th Battalion AIF. Followed Gallipoli and Anzac where his marksmanship and bush craft stood him in good stead. Conscious that his early training was not sufficient to secure the promotion he desired, he set himself to enlarge it. Only a man of fine fibre and rare determination could apply himself to study on that war torn Peninsula, where our men, hitherto untested, suffered every known hardship and no man knew, from hour to hour, whether he would survive. But Savige achieved it. Himself then a Corporal he found another Corporal who was a former Schoolmaster and learned from him all that he had to teach. Savige was on his way. He was commissioned on the Field and allotted the heroic task of leading the last party off that desperate coast during the famous evacuation. In France he became the Adjutant of his Battalion and one of the best known officers in the 6th Brigade. He won the Military Cross and was mentioned in despatches. Early in 1918 he received a signal distinction, He was included in a small but distinguished band of Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers from the British and Dominion Forces most carefully selected for individual courage and proved qualities of leadership, and was sent to Persia, under the command of Major-General Dunsterville, Kipling’s famous Stalky, to assist and mobilise the friendly tribes with a view to protecting the road to India, left wide open by the withdrawal of Russia. The story of the Dunsterforce, its suffering and achievements in the face of incredible hardships and difficulties, was later to be told by Savige in his book “Stalky’s Forlorn Hope”. He emerged, finally, unscathed, despite his active participation in several of the bloodiest battles of all time, with the rank of Captain and a DSO and MC to his credit, to say nothing of three mentions in despatches. In later years, further decorations were to be conferred upon him, but I believe he valued none of these so highly as his awards for outstanding personal bravery won in the Field when he was an Officer of comparatively junior rank. Such was the man who in August 1923, at the instance of his former Commander, Major-General Sir John Gellibrand, gathered around him a handful of men who had fought and laughed with him over four well remembered years. This small band adopted the name of “Legacy”, but its purpose then was, in the main, to assist in safeguarding the interests of ex-servicemen in this country. Worthy although the case undoubtedly was, the conception and ideal which was to distinguish Legacy from all kindred post-war movements did not emerge until two years later. The torch had not been lit. Legacy had not yet found its soul. What has been achieved since then is known to you all. The Legacy ideal, unique in its conception, with no known counterpart elsewhere, is now accepted, welcomed and honoured throughout the Commonwealth and abroad. But in those early days the achievements of our Founder in the face of all manner of difficulties and frustrations are worthy of our lasting memory and thankfulness. As the source of every river lies in the hills, so must the inspiration from which stems a great conceptions of service to one’s fellow men be lofty and above reproach. Savige was the embodiment of this new expression of comradeship, as he was the central figure and driving force of the little group that sponsored it. But for his zeal, his faith and determination, it is likely that the flame, newly kindled, might have flickered and died. The idea of men returned from active service pledging for the sake of their former comradeship, their personal assistance to the widows, and above all, to the children of those who had fought beside them and paid the full price of War, was so completely new and unexpected that it was by no means readily accepted. There were no funds, no precedents to guide the new adventurers, only the clear bright flame of an ideal just envisaged, and the conviction that the Cause was unassailable. Nor were there lacking many who said that the community held no place for Legacy, that it was born of sentiment only, and would quickly pass. The scoffers are gone and one since forgotten, but the torch remains and burns brighter than ever. Down the years of Legacy there are many names deserving of honour, men from all States and all stations of life, but no name stands out in such clear and bold relief as does the name of our Founder. By his works you shall know him. He was, in truth, the Soul of Legacy. He sought no office and preferred to work as one of the team. Six years went by before he accepted the Presidency of Melbourne Club, and then only because his fellows would book no further delay. “The Spirit of Legacy is Service” - so runs the Charter, and that was Savige’s Creed. By virtue of his attainments he was called upon to take a leading part in the administration of Legacy, first within his own club and later, as Chairman of the Co-ordinating Council of Legacy in Australia. But always it was the essentially human character of the work which enthralled and upheld him, and the tasks which gave him most joy were those which brought him into close personal contact with the youngsters and their home life. Like their elders they recognised his goodwill and his leadership and responded to it. It was Savige who made possible the first camps held for the boys and girls by Melbourne Club. These were erected on his own seaside property, and were originally conducted under his personal direction and largely with the aid of funds he had collected. There was hardly an important post in his own Club that Savige did not at some time occupy and adorn. He was happiest in the company of those men with whom he had served in the field, and cherished always the comradeship born of active service which is of the essence of Legacy. He was a man of strong convictions but attentive always to another’s point of view. As a Legatee he played a leading part in bringing hope and encouragement to many a mother on whom the whole responsibility of a young family had been suddenly and tragically laid; in the attainment of the ambitions of many an orphan child, which not so long since had seemed to him or her to be mere dreams, impossible of realisation. Comfort for the bereaved, new hope for the children’s physical and educational welfare, assistance with the home, aid for the sick, money for the needy and a new courage to face a future that hitherto had held no promise, all these facets of Legacy endeavour combine to present a living and enduring memorial to the man we honour as our Founder today. Between the two World Wars in addition to establishing himself successfully in civilian life and answering the constant calls of Legacy on his energy and time, Savige maintained an active association with the Army. He was convinced that a Second AIF would one day be urgently called upon, and as a Battalion Commander he spared no effort to train the Officers under his charge during the uneasy years of peace for the trial that he felt must come. These men have all subsequently had distinguished military careers, their names are well known and many of the serve in Legacy today. When the second crisis came, Savige himself was one of the first to offer, and although his youth was spent, he proudly carried the number VX13 throughout the terrible years that followed. This time he was to command, first the 17th Australian Infantry Brigade in the first action of the Second AIF against the enemy at Barida, and subsequently at Tobruk and Derna - all famous names now. It was his patrols which gave the warning - unheeded at the time - that Rommel’s reinforcements were reaching North Africa far earlier than was expected. Then followed the grim days of Greece and Crete when the fine qualities of his leadership were put to the utmost test. I have been told by those who were closest to him it was typical of Savige that when his convoys were on the move back and were being blasted from the air by the unopposed Luftwaffe, he should sit by the side of the open road, wearing his red banded cap, to steady the morale of men who had then no chance of hitting back at the enemy. Unorthodox no doubt, but here was a man indeed. Throughout the whole campaign and later when he commended the 3rd division in New Guinea and later still when with the rank of Lieutenant-General he became a Corps Commander in New Guinea and Bouganville, it was at all times characteristic of him that he should see for himself the situation in the forward areas. He dealt personally with his subordinate commanders whenever it was possible to do so. No one says his G.S.O. 1. understood better than he did the importance of front line troops seeing their G.O.C. frequently, and knowing that he was aware of and prepared to share their hardships and dangers. He took many risks that he should not have taken, exhausted himself physically and mentally times without number, and considered himself not at all in order to secure the success of his operations. Finally, in Bouganville, he brought his campaign to a victorious conclusion and accepted the personal surrender of the Japanese Commander. Savige is known as one of Australia’s most human military leaders, but let no one believe that he did not ask and receive the utmost of his men. He trained them in a hard school but he was ever conscious of their needs and observant and thoughtful of their welfare. Fearless and untiring under conditions which brought younger men down, he asked nothing that he was not himself prepared to give and do. The close of the Second World War left him with the same brave heart; but a vitality greatly impaired. He was called up again and again to perform important national tasks, notably that of Co-ordinator of Demobilisation and Dispersal. But his interest in Legacy never flagged it was in fact more personal than ever, for under his command many junior legatees, sons of former comrades had proved themselves worthy of their Fathers in war and in peace. In the bearing and achievements of the young men of the Second A.I.F. he took a particular and justifiable pride. He applied himself to the Extension of Legacy to areas where it had not previously been practicable to operate. His record of service and close personal contact with the men of both wars made him a most welcome pioneer and many new Clubs and Groups resulted from his efforts. He founded, and I doubt whether any one else could have done so, the Club in the great Capital of our Empire. His reputation and obvious sincerity surmounted obstacles that might well have daunted lesser man. Legacy’s debt to him visibly increased. But he was ever a simple man, with a great love and understanding of his fellow men and a true Legatee at heart. Much that he did will never be known or recognised, save by those who benefitted. His service in Legacy ranged from the humble kitchen of cottage and farm to our representation in Westminster Abbey itself. A knighthood set the seal upon an outstanding career. None the less when upon the death of Field Marshall Sir Thomas Blamey, Lieut. General Sir Stanley Savige became the Patron of the Melbourne Club, he retained at his own express desire, the title of Legatee Savige, and when on that final day we bade him farewell, when the Flags he had served so well were lowered and the guns which had formed a grim final salute, it was apparent to all who had eyes to see that this great and simple man had won such a place in the hearts and affection of his fellow country men as is given to few men indeed. From the packed Cathedral, escorted by his fellow Generals, followed by men of his own Units, by Legatees and a great company of others who had cause to honour and esteem him, he made his last journey. But that is not the end. His voice and presence are lost to us but his memory and inspiration must ever remain. As he has bequeathed to the National War Memorial yonder his diaries, records and battle plans, so he has bequeathed to us his fellow Legatees his greatest achievement and his trust, Legacy itself. Never was the Torch passed by worthier hands. Now it is ours to hold it high. Whatever material memorial the future many hold for him, Legacy owes its Founder a livelier recompense. It is within our power to implement what I believe to be his greatest wish, that Legacy and its ideal of comradeship and service shall flourish and endure. Let each one of us then resolve that we shall, within our Clubs, in all tasks to which we are assigned, both great and small, keep in our minds the life and spirit of Stanley George Savige, so that we may be proud at all times to say of Legacy to those who follow after - “If you would see his memorial - Look around you”.The tribute to Stanley Savige shows how greatly he was regarded by the Legatees.Off white quarto paper with black type, address given about Stan Savige to the Canberra Conference, x 12 pages.savige, speech, obituary

Charles Meynell Pitt Withers (aka Bill) was the youngest son of artist Walter Withers and Fanny (nee Flinn). He was born at Eltham 5 February 1902. Tyrrell George Granville Evans was born on 17th August 1892 Enlisted (No. 789) 7 July 1915 as a Private and was assigned to the 31st Battalion. Promoted to Sergeant 1 Nov 1915. Disembarked Suez 7 Feb 1916 Admitted to 32nd Stat. Hospital in France 21 July 1916 with a gunshot wound to the left arm. According to daughter-in-law, Janet Evans, on 19 July 1916, in the battle near Pozieres on the Somme, he was hit by a German high explosive shell and was unconscious and badly wounded. His left arm was shattered, and he had a bullet wound on his leg. Embarked at Boulogne on H.S. Cambria for Middlesex War Hospital, England 24 July 1916. Evans returned to Australia and was discharged medically unfit, 7 April 1917. After months in the Caulfield Hospital his arm could not be saved, and it was amputated 18 July 1917. On July 6, 1918, Tyrrell George Granville Evans married Mary Pitt Withers at Eltham, daughter of artist Walter Herbert Withers (deceased) and wife Fanny (nee Flinn). They had three children, Mary Roberta Evans born February 8, 1921, at Balwyn and twins Shirley and Joyce born June 10, 1922. Mary died 17 days later, June 27, 1922, at Balwyn. Tyrrell had to cope with three children under three years old and a missing left arm. He had been lefthanded before his war injuries. He had help from the family, especially his sister. On August 1, 1924, Tyrrell George Granville Evans married Marian Frances Wilcox and they had two children: Barbara Marian, born 27 July 1925 and Tyrrell Granville, born 3 July 1928. The children were all brought up together in Glen Iris. Tyrrell became renowned as a one-armed golfer and tennis player. He was Senior Vice-President of the Lawn Tennis Association of Victoria and was on the committee of the Metropolitan Golf Club. At the time of his retirement, he was General Manager of the Colonial Meat Company. Tyrrell died September 3, 1962 and was succeeded by sixteen grandchildren. Contributed to by Janet Evans (daughter-in-law), 27 May 2024Many items in this collection have suffered from significant water damage and black mouldjohn withers collection, eltham, tyrrell george granville evans, 1917, bolton steet, scan - 620 format 6x9 negative, southernwood, charles meynell pitt withers