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Kew Historical Society Inc
Book, Brown, Prior, Anderson Pty Ltd, The Australian Soldiers' Pocket Book : Containing useful information for Australian soldiers, 1940
Booklet produced in 1940 for members of the 2nd AIF by the Australian Comforts Fund Victorian Division. The 128-page pocket-sized book could be carried everywhere and provided Australian soldiers with a wide range of useful information about the requirements of war service and many other important details such as: The Laws and Customs of War - including Geneva Convention guidelines, notes on spies and insignia of rank; Things a Soldier should Know - including over 60 points; Signaling - including flags, morse code, shipboard bell times and time zone; Decorations Awarded to Australians in the Great War; Arabic and Japanese words; First Aid for gas injuries etc.; Australian Historical Events, facts and figures etc.; and Conduct Overseas - including expectations of behaviour when representing Australia. non-fictionaustralian comforts fund (victoria), second world war 1939-1945, hugh george ferguson -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Badge - Identification Badge, Mrs HG Ferguson, Mayoress, City of Kew 1959-60, 1959
Hugh George Ferguson was born in June 1900 in Williamstown. After his family moved to Kew, they lived in Fernhurst Grove while his future wife’s family lived in Fellows Street. He married in 1940 and subsequently joined the Second AIF. In 1945, he was reported to be the ACF (Australian Comforts Fund) Commissioner in Borneo [Kalimantan]. After the Second World War, he worked as a Billeting Affairs Organiser for the Dutch Government, resettling migrants in Australia. He also worked in advertising as an account manager, and as campaign director for Arthur Rylah in Victorian politics. He directed the first major trade fairs at the Royal Exhibition Buildings after the Second World War, including ‘Australia Makes It Exhibition’ in 1947, the ‘Australian Industrial Fair’ in 1949 and 1950, the ‘Modern Home Exhibition’ in 1949, and ‘Made in Australia’ in 1952. The funds raised during the latter were earmarked for a ‘bankrupt’ Queen Victoria Hospital. He built a home in Brougham Street and represented North Ward on Kew Council from 1952 to 1968. He was elected Mayor in 1959. Hugh Ferguson died in 1975, aged 75. He was buried on 2 September in Grave 201, Special (Non- Denominational) Compartment A, Boroondara General Cemetery.A gold plated bar brooch with suspended medallion having a blue enamelled ring surrounding the City of Kew crest in reliefFront: City of Kew, above the city of Kew crest with Council below Rear: Mrs H. G. Ferguson, Mayoress, 1959-60city of kew, mayoresses - kew (vic), mrs hg ferguson -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Badge - Identification Badge, Stoke, Cr HG Ferguson, City of Kew, 1955, 1955
Hugh George Ferguson was born in June 1900 in Williamstown. After his family moved to Kew, they lived in Fernhurst Grove while his future wife’s family lived in Fellows Street. He married in 1940 and subsequently joined the Second AIF. In 1945, he was reported to be the ACF (Australian Comforts Fund) Commissioner in Borneo [Kalimantan]. After the Second World War, he worked as a Billeting Affairs Organiser for the Dutch Government, resettling migrants in Australia. He also worked in advertising as an account manager, and as campaign director for Arthur Rylah in Victorian politics. He directed the first major trade fairs at the Royal Exhibition Buildings after the Second World War, including ‘Australia Makes It Exhibition’ in 1947, the ‘Australian Industrial Fair’ in 1949 and 1950, the ‘Modern Home Exhibition’ in 1949, and ‘Made in Australia’ in 1952. The funds raised during the latter were earmarked for a ‘bankrupt’ Queen Victoria Hospital. He built a home in Brougham Street and represented North Ward on Kew Council from 1952 to 1968. He was elected Mayor in 1959. Hugh Ferguson died in 1975, aged 75. He was buried on 2 September in Grave 201, Special (Non- Denominational) Compartment A, Boroondara General Cemetery.City of Kew identification badge issued to sitting councillors. The City of Kew cost is surrounded by a blue enamel band with City of Kew Council picked out in gold cloisonné.Front: City of Kew to top, Crest in middle with Council below Rear: Cr H. G. Ferguson 27-8-1955mayors of kew - cr hg ferguson, kew council, city of kew -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Clothing - Child's silk smocked dress, c.1910
The child's silk smocked dress with feather stitching is believed to have been worn by Mary Hodgetts, sister of the donor's mother. The dress is estimated to have been made in c.1919, but from its style it may date from the 1900s. This would not be uncommon as children's clothing was often 'passed-on' or reconfigured to fit a new wearer. Mary Hodgetts grew up in Kensington Park, Adelaide. As an adult, Mary enlisted in 1941 to the 1st AWAS camp. After six months she volunteers for the 58th AASL (Anti Aircraft Searchlight Battery). She was sent to Sydney where she attended Training School with 33 males and one other female. Mary was the first AWAS to receive a Commission in the RAA (Royal Australian Artillery). Mary Downer was one of many under Mary's command on returning to Adelaide. After a March through the streets of Adelaide, most of the unit transferred to Western Australia (Fremantle area) in 1943 and were scattered amongst the 55th and 65th AASL Batteries. At the conclusion of WW2, Mary travelled to Melbourne to be with her sister and studied Accountancy. She first lived in Mary Street, Hawthorn, and then bought a unit in Harcourt Street, East Hawthorn. During this period she worked as Bursar to St Catherine's Girls' School. On retirement, she purchased a house in Edgecombe Street, Kew, and lived there happily for many years. During this time she was active with the Kew Meals on Wheels, receiving her 10-years of service certificate. Mary Hodgetts died in 2018.Child's clothing associated with the history of a significant Australian woman who served with the 2nd AIFChild's silk smocked dress Shoulder width 26 cm / Length 52 cmmary hodgetts, 58th aasl (anti aircraft searchlight battery), children's clothing, women- ww2 -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Clothing - Black lace evening dress, 1930s
Doris Mercy Willmott was born in May 1896 in Stamford Hill, London, the eldest of three daughters of Albert and Minnie Willmott. The family lived in various parts of north London until the beginning of the First World War, when they moved to Redhill in Surrey. It was in Redhill that Doris met her future husband, Frederick John (Jack) Bennett. Jack had met Eric Mercy, a cousin of Minnie’s, in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and visited the Wilmotts with him whilst on leave from France. Although Jack Bennett returned to Melbourne in March 1919, he and Doris continued to correspond and they were engaged in March 1923. She came to Melbourne on her own, and was married in the Congregational Church in Canterbury on 23 December 1923. By 1931 Doris and Jack and their three sons - John Willmott, Winfield Robert Curtis and Peter Reginald Dane - moved to 21 Tooronga Road, Hawthorn but moved back to his father’s home, Therapia, 2 (now 6) Hepburn Street, Auburn, shortly before his father’s death. In 1937, the Bennett family moved back to the United Kingdom, spending the war years in Uxbridge and Torquay. The family returned to Melbourne in October 1946, after the deaths of Doris’ parents. The family lived at 12 Stanhope Grove, Camberwell and 51 The Ridge, Canterbury before Jack died in February 1952. After this Doris moved to 12 Stanley Grove, Canterbury, her home until c. 1970 when she moved to 25 Corhampton Road, North Balwyn. She died in May 1980 in Princeton Nursing Home, 3 Bellett Street, Camberwell. (Adapted from notes provided by Sue Barnett, the donor).The collection of evening clothes owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett, of which this item is one, date from the 1930s and may have been purchased in Australia or in the United Kingdom. Each of the items, apart from the evening dress, which has a few minor tears in the lace, is of fine quality and evidences Doris Bennett’s love of glamour and style. While the evening dress and the mantilla are of the same fabric, the two capes might have been worn with the dress as alternative fashion accessories. None of the items has a maker’s mark, however each displays evidence of fine dressmaking skills. It is however probable that the two fitted capes were commercially made.Long black lace, floor-length evening dress extending to a short train at the back. The dress has a belt at the waist that is joined by two white metal clasps studded with diamentes. With the dress there is also a matching lace square (2017.00921) that might have been used as a mantilla or as a shawl. The dress was owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett (nee Willmott) [1896-1980], and donated to the Society by her grandaughter. women's clothing, evening wear, evening dresses, doris bennett (nee wilmott) -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Clothing - Evening Wear, Black Lace Shawl, circa 1930s, 1930s
Doris Mercy Willmott was born in May 1896 in Stamford Hill, London, the eldest of three daughters of Albert and Minnie Willmott. The family lived in various parts of north London until the beginning of the First World War, when they moved to Redhill in Surrey. It was in Redhill that Doris met her future husband, Frederick John (Jack) Bennett. Jack had met Eric Mercy, a cousin of Minnie’s, in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and visited the Wilmotts with him whilst on leave from France. Although Jack Bennett returned to Melbourne in March 1919, he and Doris continued to correspond and they were engaged in March 1923. She came to Melbourne on her own, and was married in the Congregational Church in Canterbury on 23 December 1923. By 1931 Doris and Jack and their three sons - John Willmott, Winfield Robert Curtis and Peter Reginald Dane - moved to 21 Tooronga Road, Hawthorn but moved back to his father’s home, Therapia, 2 (now 6) Hepburn Street, Auburn, shortly before his father’s death. In 1937, the Bennett family moved back to the United Kingdom, spending the war years in Uxbridge and Torquay. The family returned to Melbourne in October 1946, after the deaths of Doris’ parents. The family lived at 12 Stanhope Grove, Camberwell and 51 The Ridge, Canterbury before Jack died in February 1952. After this Doris moved to 12 Stanley Grove, Canterbury, her home until c. 1970 when she moved to 25 Corhampton Road, North Balwyn. She died in May 1980 in Princeton Nursing Home, 3 Bellett Street, Camberwell. (Adapted from notes provided by Sue Barnett, the donor).The collection of evening clothes owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett, of which this item is one, date from the 1930s and may have been purchased in Australia or in the United Kingdom. Each of the items, apart from the evening dress, which has a few minor tears in the lace, is of fine quality and evidences Doris Bennett’s love of glamour and style. While the evening dress and the mantilla are of the same fabric, the two capes might have been worn with the dress as alternative fashion accessories. None of the items has a maker’s mark, however each displays evidence of fine dressmaking skills. It is however probable that the two fitted capes were commercially made.With the black lace evening dress (2917.0093.1) there is also a matching lace square with long lace ties (2017.0093.2) that might have been used as a mantilla or as a shawl. The outfit was owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett (nee Willmott) [1896-1980], and donated to the Society by her grandaughter. women's clothing, evening wear, shawls, lace, doris bennet (nee willmott) -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Clothing - Evening Wear, Black and Silver Sequin Capelet, 1930s, 1930s
Doris Mercy Willmott was born in May 1896 in Stamford Hill, London, the eldest of three daughters of Albert and Minnie Willmott. The family lived in various parts of north London until the beginning of the First World War, when they moved to Redhill in Surrey. It was in Redhill that Doris met her future husband, Frederick John (Jack) Bennett. Jack had met Eric Mercy, a cousin of Minnie’s, in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and visited the Wilmotts with him whilst on leave from France. Although Jack Bennett returned to Melbourne in March 1919, he and Doris continued to correspond and they were engaged in March 1923. She came to Melbourne on her own, and was married in the Congregational Church in Canterbury on 23 December 1923. By 1931 Doris and Jack and their three sons - John Willmott, Winfield Robert Curtis and Peter Reginald Dane - moved to 21 Tooronga Road, Hawthorn but moved back to his father’s home, Therapia, 2 (now 6) Hepburn Street, Auburn, shortly before his father’s death. In 1937, the Bennett family moved back to the United Kingdom, spending the war years in Uxbridge and Torquay. The family returned to Melbourne in October 1946, after the deaths of Doris’ parents. The family lived at 12 Stanhope Grove, Camberwell and 51 The Ridge, Canterbury before Jack died in February 1952. After this Doris moved to 12 Stanley Grove, Canterbury, her home until c. 1970 when she moved to 25 Corhampton Road, North Balwyn. She died in May 1980 in Princeton Nursing Home, 3 Bellett Street, Camberwell. (Adapted from notes provided by Sue Barnett, the donor).The collection of evening clothes owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett, of which this item is one, date from the 1930s and may have been purchased in Australia or in the United Kingdom. Each of the items, apart from the evening dress, which has a few minor tears in the lace, is of fine quality and evidences Doris Bennett’s love of glamour and style. While the evening dress and the mantilla are of the same fabric, the two capes might have been worn with the dress as alternative fashion accessories. None of the items has a maker’s mark, however each displays evidence of fine dressmaking skills. It is however probable that the two fitted capes were commercially made.Black silk chiffon or georgette fitted evening cape,let entirely covered in silver metal rectangles and black sequins. The cape gives the appearance of being joined at the front, however it is made in one piece. The cape has open scalloped sections bordering the lower band of silver metal rectangles. The cape was owned and worn by Doris Mercy Bennett (nee Willmott) [1896-1980], and donated to the Society by her grandaughter. evening wear, capelets, doris bennett (nee wilmott), women's clothing -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Clothing - Shawl, Manton de Manila, 1930s
Doris Mercy Willmott was born in May 1896 in Stamford Hill, London, the eldest of three daughters of Albert and Minnie Willmott. The family lived in various parts of north London until the beginning of the First World War, when they moved to Redhill in Surrey. It was in Redhill that Doris met her future husband, Frederick John (Jack) Bennett. Jack had met Eric Mercy, a cousin of Minnie’s, in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and visited the Wilmotts with him whilst on leave from France. Although Jack Bennett returned to Melbourne in March 1919, he and Doris continued to correspond and they were engaged in March 1923. She came to Melbourne on her own, and was married in the Congregational Church in Canterbury on 23 December 1923. By 1931 Doris and Jack and their three sons - John Willmott, Winfield Robert Curtis and Peter Reginald Dane - moved to 21 Tooronga Road, Hawthorn but moved back to his father’s home, Therapia, 2 (now 6) Hepburn Street, Auburn, shortly before his father’s death. In 1937, the Bennett family moved back to the United Kingdom, spending the war years in Uxbridge and Torquay. The family returned to Melbourne in October 1946, after the deaths of Doris’ parents. The family lived at 12 Stanhope Grove, Camberwell and 51 The Ridge, Canterbury before Jack died in February 1952. After this Doris moved to 12 Stanley Grove, Canterbury, her home until c. 1970 when she moved to 25 Corhampton Road, North Balwyn. She died in May 1980 in Princeton Nursing Home, 3 Bellett Street, Camberwell. (Adapted from notes provided by Sue Barnett, the donor).Black silk, with multi-coloured embroiderery Manton de Manila shawl. The shawl was owned and once worn by Doris Mercy Bennett (nee Willmott) [1896-1980], and donated to the Society by her grandaughter. It probably dates from the 1930s.evening wear, piano shawl, manton de manila, doris bennett (nee wilmot), women's clothing -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Document - Mounted Commemorative Scroll and Letters, Letters & Scroll, Pte Charles F. Richardson 6 Bn AIF, 1916
Pte Charles F. Richardson 6 Bn AIF was wounded at Gallipoli, and sent to Alexandria where he died in a hospital of his wounds. The certificates were held by the Rogers family. Pte Richardson's sister was the historian Dorothy Rogers.This work forms part of the collection assembled by the historian Dorothy Rogers, that was donated to the Kew Historical Society by her son John Rogers in 2015. The manuscripts, photographs, maps, and documents were sourced by her from both family and local collections or produced as references for her print publications. Many were directly used by Rogers in writing ‘Lovely Old Homes of Kew’ (1961) and 'A History of Kew' (1973), or the numerous articles on local history that she produced for suburban newspapers. Most of the photographs in the collection include detailed annotations in her hand. The Rogers Collection provides a comprehensive insight into the working habits of a historian in the 1960s and 1970s. Together it forms the largest privately-donated collection within the archives of the Kew Historical Society.Three mounted letters, two identical paying tribute to the sacrifice of Pte Charles F. Richardson 6 Bn AIF in World War I. Each certificate is set within a thin plywood open frame. [Charles Richardson was the brother of the historian Dorothy Rogers]Nilcharles f richardson, dorothy rogers, first world war (1914-18) -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Weapon - Gun sight, 1916 circa
This gun sight was brought home from WWI (1914-1918) by members of the 13th Battery 5th Field Artillery Brigade (Albury Battery) as a souvenir of its action in the first battle of Bullecourt April 1917. On one occasion during the battle the Battery was surrounded by a German counter attack. They dragged their guns out of the gun pits and continued firing to the flanks and rear and supported the Australian counter penetration attack which restored the situation. After the war a recreational reserve in Albury NSW was named Noreuil Park after the French village near where the action occurred.A rare object with significant connection to Albury NSW and its citizen soldiers who served with the AIF in WWI (1914-1918). The engraving gives it close association with the recreational park in Albury named after the French village of Noreuil and honouring the soldiers who fought there with great courage. Range drum portion of the sighting mechanism from an 18 Pounder field gun made of brass and other metals. The object is engraved with the word NOREUIL and the date 2.4.17.Serial No 5459; and NOREUIL 2.4.17gun sight, noreuil, albury, 13th battery -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Book, Under Furred Hats (6th Light Horse Regiment), 1919
6th Light Horse Regiment was raised in New South Wales in 1914 and served at Gallipoli, Sinai, Palestine and Syria. The regiment wore wallaby skin hat bands instead of cloth puggarees, hence the reference to furred hats.A rare first edition of a regimental history. It was told and published immediately after the war so gives an authentic and unvarnished account of the experience of a relatively small group of young men from New South Wales during their four years at war.Hardback book; 1st edition. Written by Lieutenant G L Berrie 6th Light Horse Regiment AIF. Published by W C Penfold and Company Ltdbook, light horse -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Headwear - Helmet - AIF, WWI, circa 1916
Regimental 543 Trooper Geoff Gilbert of Northcote Victoria enlisted in the 13th Light Horse Regiment AIF aged 21. He served at Gallipoli and Egypt before the regiment moved to the Western Front in March 1916 as Corps cavalry. Steel helmets and gas masks became regular equipment as the regiment engaged in all the major actions involving the Australians. Gilbert brought his helmet home after the war as a souvenir.Rare souvenir of headwear worn by an Australian light horseman of World War 1 (1914-18). Steel helmet worn on the Western Front by Lance Corporal Geoff Gilbert 13th Australian Light Horse during World War 1 (1914-1918).helmet, 13th light horse, wwi, world war one, the great war, first world war, gallipoli, australian imperial forces, aif -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Trophy, McClure Cup
Battery Quartermaster Sergeant Harold Bauerle served with the Albury Battery in the 1920s and 1030s. Shortly following Federation the military unit in Albury was redesignated No 4 New South Wales Battery Australian Field Artillery (AFA). It was under the command of Major John Wilkinson, an Albury solicitor and comprised about 100 citizen soldiers, 4 guns and about 40 horses. Training centred on the Albury Drill Hall located in Victoria Street. A reorganisation in 1912 resulted in the Battery being named No 17 Battery AFA. When war broke out in 1914 the Battery then under the command of Major Joseph Shellshear, and Albury doctor, offered its services as a trained artillery battery to the Australian Imperial Force (AIF). The Battery cooled its heels and continued to train till July 1915 when a second division was raised in the AIF and trained artillery was needed. When the call came 150 officers and men of the 17th Battery went into the AIF, many to the 13th Battery with Major Shellshear in command and others to other AIF batteries of the 4th and 5th Artillery Brigades. The 13th Battery was adopted immediately by the townsfolk of Albury as the Albury Battery. The Battery served in France and Belgium and was involved in all the major battles fought by the Australians perhaps most notably at Noreuil where the Battery found itself surrounded but continued to fight till eventually the enemy was driven back. Following the war members of the Battery nominated this battle as their most significant achievement and consequently a newly developed recreational reserve on the Murray River foreshore was named Noreuil Park. In 1919 the Battery resumed training as part of the Citizen Military Forces or Militia. Changes of title were frequent, first 27th Battery, then 60th Battery and finally 40th Battery AFA. Battery commanders included Captain Leslie Colquhoun, an Albury real estate agent, Captain Roy Collings, Albury town clerk and Captain Clifton Mott a newspaper editor. The Depression of the early 1930s almost brought about the closure of the Albury Battery but it survived through the intervention of the mayor, Alderman Alfred Waugh, who made direct representation to the Minister for Defence. When the Second World War erupted in 1939, the Battery was at full strength and a rich source of officers and trained men for the second AIF. Militia training of the few remaining officers and Albury adopted the 2/23rd Infantry Battalion which had been raised at the Showground. Following WWII, CMF soldiering recommenced in the form of an armoured regiment, the 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles. After nearly a half a century of service in war and peace the Albury Battery has faded and exists now in this collection of objects and images. This trophy is representative of community support for a Citizen Military Forces unit drawn from a regional NSW Town in the period between the World Wars.Silver cup with two handles mounted on Bakelite base being the McClure Cup for most efficient NCO in Albury Battery 1935-36 . inscription on side of cup."McClure Cup / for / Most efficient NCO / 1935-36 / won by / BQMS H.C. Bauerle"bauerle h c bqms, albury battery, mcclure cup -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Photograph - Photograph (Copy), Charles Leslie Mitton, pharmacist, c1940
REF: SHNN article Oct/Nov 1991: Pharmacy was purchased from Mr Nye by C L Mitton in 1933; later moved to 139 Union Road. Research: Stanley Morris Nye (born Ballarat in 1889, son of a Methodist minister; served AIF in WW1) moved to Surrey Hills from Auburn after 1922. He was the first occupant of 131 Union Road which was built in 1924. He is listed in the 1924,1927 and 1931 electoral rolls at 86 Canterbury Road, Surrey Hills. He died aged 44 years in December 1933 and Charles Leslie Mitton took over the business. Charles Leslie Mitton was practising in Newmarket prior to taking over the pharmacy in 1933, the year he also married Ethel Sylvia Stevenson. They lived at 65 Union Road until c1940 when they moved to Kenmare Street, Box Hill North. The pharmacy passed to his son John and daughter Rosalind Lorraine (1937-1997)Black & white head and shoulders portrait photo of a man in a pin-striped jacket. mitton's pharmacy, businesses, pharmacies, pharmacists, union road shops, mr charles leslie mitton, mr stanley morris nye -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Work on paper - Black and White Photograph, Dr Norman Rose
Dr Rose was a member of the Surrey Hills Medical Centre for approximately 50 years. Norman was the son of Maurice Rose (1889-1963) and Gertrude nee Gordon (1891-1972) and was born in Birkenhead, Cheshire, UK, on 15 September 1916. Norman had an older sister, Irene. As with many migrant families, Maurice departed from London for Melbourne on 27 October 1927 on the ‘Ballarat’ ahead of his family, who sailed on the ‘Bendigo’ on 8 May, 1928. Norman was 12 years old. The family lived in a number of locations including St Kilda, Balaclava and later Elwood. Norman attended Wesley College, following which he enrolled at the University of Melbourne, where he studied medicine, graduating MB BS in 1939. For unknown reasons, post-graduation Norman moved to Perth in March 1940. It was at the Fremantle General Hospital that he met his future wife, Helen Beatrice (Betty) Mackie, and began training in anaesthetics. When World War 2 was declared, Norman enlisted in the army. He was attached to the 2/13th Field Ambulance (AIF). He served in the Middle East and Borneo. Upon their return to Melbourne after the end of the war, Norman completed hospital rotations as a Resident Medical Officer at the Alfred Hospital (1946-1947) and at the Royal Women’s Hospital in 1948. Norman was a close friend of Dr Bill Vorrath, which probably explains how he came to join the Surrey Hills Medical Centre in either 1948 or 1949. Although technically a General Practitioner, Dr Rose focused on Anaesthetics. He was often on call for the Emergency Department at Box Hill Hospital and he also taught many students how to administer an epidural. In 1972, under the so-called ‘Grandfather Clause’, he was registered as a Specialist Practitioner in Anaesthesia. Dr Rose’s long service to Box Hill Hospital was recognised with the award of Life Governorship of the Hospital in 1978. Dr Rose married for a second time after his first wife Betty died in 1997. He retired in 1998 or 1999 and died in 2010 in his 94th year. Dr Norman Rose worked at Surrey Hills Medical Centre as a General Practitioner / Anaesthetist for 50 years, and thus had a significant role in and influence on this community.A formal head and shoulders portrait photo of a man with greying hair, wearing glasses and jacket and striped tie.norman rose, general practitioner, doctor, anaesthetist, surrey hills medical centre, box hill hospital, fremantle general hospital, 2/13th field ambulance aif, alfred hospital, royal women's hospital, bill vorrath, helen beatrice mackie, betty mackie, betty rose -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Photograph - Photograph (Copy), Charles Leslie Mitton's Surrey Hills pharmacy, c1933
REF: SHNN article Oct/Nov 1991: Pharmacy was purchased from Mr Nye by C L Mitton in 1933; later moved to 139 Union Road. Research: Stanley Morris Nye (born Ballarat in 1889, son of a Methodist minister; served AIF in WW1) moved to Surrey Hills from Auburn after 1922. He was the first occupant of 131 Union Road which was built in 1924. He is listed in the 1924,1927 and 1931 electoral rolls at 86 Canterbury Road, Surrey Hills. He died aged 44 years in December 1933 and Charles Leslie Mitton took over the business. Charles Leslie Mitton was practising in Newmarket prior to taking over the pharmacy in 1933, the year he also married Ethel Sylvia Stevenson. They lived at 65 Union Road until c1940 when they moved to Kenmare Street, Box Hill North. The pharmacy passed to his son John and daughter Rosalind Lorraine (1937-1997)Black & white photo of a man in a white coat, identified as Charles Leslie Mitton, standing outside his pharmacy in Union Road, Surrey Hills. There is a step up to a central door with glass panels in the top half. The display windows are angled to either side of the door. Within these are shelves displaying many products. The surrounds of the windows are tiled.Note sign for Ipana toothpaste.mitton's pharmacy, businesses, pharmacies, pharmacists, union road shops, mr charles leslie mitton, mr stanley morris nye -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Vertical file, Frederick WiIliam Mawson of Surrey Hills, his family and descendants
Frederick William Mawson and his wife Mary (nee Mullard) and baby daughter, Beatrice Mary migrated to Victoria as steerage passengers, arriving in Melbourne on 1 July 1882 on the sailing ship the ‘Holmsdale’. They settled in Bona Vista Avenue, Surrey Hills (house demolished) and he established a jam factory in Boundary (Warrigal) Road. Further children of the family were Harriett, Muriel, Ethel, Winifred, John and Frederick William (Jnr). The later died in WW1 and there is a transcript of his diary in this collection. Four of the daughters became nurses, three serving in WW1. The other son John became a local builder, who after the war built 'Holmsdale' in Union Road as a convalescent home to be run by his sisters. After the death of his first wife Frederick (Snr) married Catherine Small, a widow with children of her own.The family were early settlers in Surrey Hills and their story in relation to the service of local men and women during WW1 is well documented.Vertical file of information related to the Mawson family which includes: 1. Notes and documents that came from John Howden via G Randy Johnston, his tenant at 257 Union Road, Surrey Hills. (6 pages in total): a. The Misses Mawson family history, written by John Howden (2 pages), b Note from G Randy Johnston, c. Passengers’ contract ticket for Fred, Mary & Beatrice Mawson on the ‘Holmsdale’, 1882, d. Photocopies of 2 photos of the ‘Holmsdale’, e. Invitation (blank photocopy) to the opening of ‘Holmsdale’ Convalescent Home, 257 Union Road, Surrey Hills, 14.3.1936. 2. Advertising brochure for ‘Holmsdale’ Convalescent Home (undated) (3 pages: original and photocopy x 2). 3. English family documents (8 pages): a. John Spensley Barnsdall bapt Mar 1818, b. John Spensley Barnsdall marriage registration, c. Census 1861 for John Mawson, Betsy Bradbury Mawson, Frederick William Mawson and George Barnesdale Mawson, d. Census 1871 for John Mawson, Betsy B. Mawson, Frederick W. Mawson and George B. Mawson and Arthur Mawson, e. Census 1881 for John Mawson, Betsy B. Mawson, Arthur Mawson and George Mawson, f. Census 1881 for Fredk W Mawson and Mary Mawson. 4. PROV Unassisted passenger list information for Mary Mawson 1882 (1 page). 5. Mawson family members notes compiled by Sue Barnett (2 pages). 6. Harriet Godden Mawson details including WW1 service details, Royal Military College of Australia certificate of service certificate, references from Duntroon and Gresswell Sanatorium (11 pages). 7. Beatrice Mawson details including WW1 service on the ‘Mongolia’ – Argus article 28 June 1917 and her account of the sinking of the ‘Mongolia’ published in Castlemaine newspaper, 18 August 1917 (4 pages). 8. Muriel Mawson details including WW1 service and evidence of her training at Castlemaine Hospital (5 pages). 9. F.W. Mawson Jr details including WW1 service including Red Cross Wounded and Missing Enquiry Bureau file and Dasey (misnamed photo of him) (8 pages, incl photo). 10. F.W. Mawson Snr details incl birth registration, 1871, marriage to Catherine Small, death registration, cemetery index (5 pages). 11. Betsy Bradbury Mawson death & burial details (2 pages). 12. John Mawson family: John Mawson probate notice, 24 Sept 1941; marriage of son Ivan to Joan Manning, 29/9/1945 (2 pages). 13. Arthur David Mawson details - extract from Ancestry.com family tree notated by Sue Barnett; death notice from The Argus, 24 oct 1939 (2 pages). 14. Holmsdale and the Mawson family - Presentation to Surrey Hills Historical Society: 21 March 2012 by Sue Barnett, 25 pages including photos. 15. Letter from John Howden to Sue Barnett, 1 April 2012. 16. Information re Dr James Moore Andrew of Yallourn.(mr) frederick william mawson, (mr) john howden, (mr) frederick william mawson jnr, aif, (miss) beatrice mary mawson, (miss) harriet godden mawson, (miss) muriel mawson, (mr) john mawson, (miss) ethel mawson, (miss) winifred sarah mawson, (mr) lyell mcalister howden, (miss) olive mabel garrett, (mrs) olive mabel mawson, garrett and mawson, 'holmsdale', holmsdale convalesent and rest home, 257 union road, 'erskine', 5a barloa road, 'carbethon', 50 churchill street, (mrs) mary mawson, box hill cemetery, (mrs) catherine small, (mrs) catherine mawson, 14 bona vista avenue, (mr) arthur david mawson, (mrs) betsy bradbury mawson, world war one, nurses, builders -
Brighton Historical Society
Uniform, Army jacket, circa 1914-19
First World War Army jacket belonging to Lieutenant Sydney Matthew Callaghan (1892-1976), who served in the Australian Engineers, AIF Canteens Section and the Australian Flying Corps during WWI. Sydney and his family lived at 34 Normanby Street from 1932. His parents lived in Bay Road, Sandringham.First World War Army jacket, khaki with four front pockets. Winged Australian Flying Corps patch above left breast pocket. Lieutenant's insignia on epaulets: two diamond-shaped metal 'pips' and a curving band with the word "AUSTRALIA". Flying Corps colour patch on each shoulder: a pale blue triangle with two small red stripes and a large central darker blue stripe. Metal belt hooks on either side of the waist. The garment has been widened, with a strip of khaki fabric inserted in the centre back.sydney matthew callaghan, australian flying corps, military uniform, first world war -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Photograph, Joseph W Cairnduff, 1914, 1914
Joseph William Cairnduff (1876-1929) was born in Hobart, Tasmania. He married Ann Walker in 1900. When he enlisted on 19 August 1914 he was given SERN 4. At the time he was living at 'Tyne', 96 Guildford Road, Surrey Hills. He was 5'5", 38 years old and employed as a civil servant. He had served for 5 years in the Senior Cadets and 3 years in the Australian Signallers. He was given the rank of sergeant in the Divisional Signal Company 1 and embarked for Egypt from Melbourne on board HMAT A10 Karroo on 20 October 1914. Surviving service on Gallipoli and the Western Front, he returned to Melbourne leaving on board HT 'Wiltshire', 12 November 1916. He was discharged medically unfit. Joseph and Ann had a large family before he left for WW1: Ann Mary b.1901; James William Cotter b. 1903; Mathew Norman Banks b. 1904; Doris Jean b.1906; Claude James b, 1908; Elsie Edna b. 1910; Clive Bruce b. 1912 and Gladys Janet b. 1914. After his return he and Ann had more 2 daughters - Sylvia McLaren b. 1917 and Mavis Morley b. 1918, who commenced at Chatham Primary School in 1927 and 1928 respectively. Joseph and Ann are buried in Box Hill Cemetery (M-NS-0492). Joseph's twin brother, James Banks Cairnduff (SERN 571) also served in the AIF and is also buried in Box Hill Cemetery (M-NS-0003). A studio portrait of a soldier in AIF uniform and a peaked cap. He is short and is standing with one arm straight and the other bend. He is holding what looks like a whip in the hand of the bent arm.In the hand of the donor: "1914" in ink in top RH corner. The centre: "Joseph W. Cairnduff / Before leaving for overseas / in 1914, firstly to Egypt / then Gallipoli, then Western / Front."joseph william cairnduff, first world war, signals company, guildford road, 'tyne', (miss) ann walker, (mrs) ann cairnduff, (mrs) mavis good -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Photograph, Joseph W Cairnduff in Egypt, 1916, 1916
Joseph William Cairnduff (1876-1929) was born in Hobart, Tasmania. He married Ann Walker in 1900. When he enlisted on 19 August 1914 he was given SERN 4. At the time he was living at 'Tyne', 96 Guildford Road, Surrey Hills. He was 5'5", 38 years old and employed as a civil servant. He had served for 5 years in the Senior Cadets and 3 years in the Australian Signallers. He was given the rank of sergeant in the Divisional Signal Company 1 and embarked for Egypt from Melbourne on board HMAT A10 Karroo on 20 October 1914. Joseph was in Egypt from 24/10/1915 to 17/6/1916, but only in Giza from 21/02/1916 to 6/03/1916. Surviving service on Gallipoli and the Western Front, he returned to Melbourne leaving on board HT 'Wiltshire', 12 November 1916. He was discharged medically unfit. Joseph and Ann had a large family before he left for WW1: Ann Mary b.1901; James William Cotter b. 1903; Mathew Norman Banks b. 1904; Doris Jean b.1906; Claude James b, 1908; Elsie Edna b. 1910; Clive Bruce b. 1912 and Gladys Janet b. 1914. After his return he and Ann had more 2 daughters - Sylvia McLaren b. 1917 and Mavis Morley b. 1918, who commenced at Chatham Primary School in 1927 and 1928 respectively. Joseph and Ann are buried in Box Hill Cemetery (M-NS-0492). Joseph's twin brother, James Banks Cairnduff (SERN 571) also served in the AIF and is also buried in Box Hill Cemetery (M-NS-0003). A black and white photo of a group of 7 Australian soldiers and 2 Egyptians gathered around a pole. The context is not able to be discerned. One of the soldiers is marked with an 'X' and is smoking a pipe. He has a cap-like object on his head. The other soldiers are wearing slouch hats. The Egyptians are dressed in long white garments and are wearing turbans.On the rear in the hand of the donor: "Dad had written on the original (photo) / "The 1st and only Telegraph ffice / erected on the top of the Pyramids, / it was erected by me during our / sojourn in Egypt"joseph william cairnduff, first world war, egypt, signals company, telegraph office, pyramids -
Surrey Hills Historical Society Collection
Photograph, Joseph W Cairnduff in trenches on Gallipoli, 1915, 1915
Joseph William Cairnduff (1876-1929) was born in Hobart, Tasmania. He married Ann Walker in 1900. When he enlisted on 19 August 1914 he was given SERN 4. At the time he was living at 'Tyne', 96 Guildford Road, Surrey Hills. He was 5'5", 38 years old and employed as a civil servant. He had served for 5 years in the Senior Cadets and 3 years in the Australian Signallers. He was given the rank of sergeant in the Divisional Signal Company 1 and embarked for Egypt from Melbourne on board HMAT A10 Karroo on 20 October 1914. Joseph was on Gallipoli from 5/4/1915; he proceeded from there to Alexandria on 24/10/1915. Surviving service on Gallipoli and the Western Front, he returned to Melbourne leaving on board HT 'Wiltshire', 12 November 1916. He was discharged medically unfit. Joseph and Ann had a large family before he left for WW1: Ann Mary b.1901; James William Cotter b. 1903; Mathew Norman Banks b. 1904; Doris Jean b.1906; Claude James b, 1908; Elsie Edna b. 1910; Clive Bruce b. 1912 and Gladys Janet b. 1914. After his return he and Ann had more 2 daughters - Sylvia McLaren b. 1917 and Mavis Morley b. 1918, who commenced at Chatham Primary School in 1927 and 1928 respectively. Joseph and Ann are buried in Box Hill Cemetery (M-NS-0492). Joseph's twin brother, James Banks Cairnduff (SERN 571) also served in the AIF and is also buried in Box Hill Cemetery (M-NS-0003). A black and white photo of a group of 2 Australian soldiers sitting on wooden boxes under a slatted wooden low roof. They are at work on equipment of some kind. In the background are shelves with stores including a roll of cording and other materials in tins and boxes.On the rear in the hand of the donor: ""Repairing telephones / in Gallipoli" (in trench) / Dad on the left"joseph william cairnduff, first world war, signals company, guildford road, 'tyne', (miss) ann walker,, (mrs) ann walker, (mrs) mavis good, gallipoli, trenches -
Royal District Nursing Service (now known as Bolton Clarke)
Photograph - Photograph, black and white:, 1948
These are the first two Malayan nurse recipients of an Australian Imperial Force Scholarship. This entitled them to spend three months with the Melbourne District Nursing SocietyNurses from Malaya came to Australia under the Australian Imperial Force (A.I.F) scholarship program.Black and white photograph of Malayan nurses, Miss Alice Chia and Miss Ooi Soh Im. Both Malayan nurses have dark short hair and are wearing glasses. They are wearing long grey coats which have collars and a belt, and dark brimmed hats. The nurse on the left is carrying an oblong case in her right hand and the one on the right has a white folded document in her left hand. They are standing on a path. Part of a brick building is to their left and rear, and a set of stairs is to the right rear. Part of a window can be seen to the left and some low bushes in front of the building. melbourne district nursing society (1885-1957), rdns, royal district nursing service, aif scholarship program, miss ooi soh im, miss alice chia -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Work on paper - Award of Distinguished Conduct Medal No 168 Company Sergenant Major F.T. Brent
Telegram notififying NOK of award of distingushed conduct medalTelegram to NOK notifying of the award of distigusihed conduct medal. This item provideds provinance to related itemsFramed Telegram, black frame with gold pearling on the inside edge. Telegram from the commonwealth of Australia Department of Defence Base records section dated 10 July 1919. " Dear Madam, I have much pleasure in forwarding hereunfer London Gazette dated 5 Febuary 1918, relating to the conspicuous services rendered by your husband , No. 168, Company Sergeant Major F.T. Brent, 6th Battalion." x x x x Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal " With reference to the award of the Distingusished Conduct Medal inferred as announced in the London Gazette, of service for which the decoration was conferred :- No 168 Company Sergeant Major F.T. BRENT. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in an attack. He took strong command of a party , and attacked an enemy strong point , capturing twenty prisoners and two machine guns . He also rendered valuable assistance in consolodating the captured position, and set a splendid example to his men. x x x x The above has been promulgated in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette, No 95 dated 27th June, 1918. Yours faithfully , Major Office i/c Base Records. Mrs. A.I.N. Brent Post Office, SPRING VALE Victoria5/6 rvr, first world war, 6 battalion aif, distinguished conduct medal -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Equipment - Water bottle, First Warld War- German, 1916
This item is representive of the equiment used by the enemy of members of the AIF in France and Belguim during the First World War Black, metal tear drop shaped water bottle with leather strap ( broken) around the neck of the bottle. The lid and cover for this water bottle are missing. There is a small dint at the lower front of the bottle -
Melbourne Legacy
Letter, Actions of the AIF in Greece and Crete told by SG Savige 1941, 1941
A typed letter designed to be copied and circulated to members of Stan Savige's 'old mob' recounting events in Greece and Crete in 1941. Legatee Savige was deployed in Greece and this letter recounts the withdrawal of his company and those of Walker and Wrigley. He mentions Thermopylae, Kalamai, and evacuation via the ship Costa Rica, which was bombed by German planes and sunk, which resulted in Walker's mob being lost. It starts addressed to Dear Guthridge, who has not been identified.A first hand account of the campaign in Greece during 1941, and an important link to Legatee Stan Savige, the founder of Legacy.Cream foolscap paper x 4 pages with black type transcription of a letter by Stan Savige in 1941.stan savige, world war two, crete, greece -
Melbourne Legacy
Letter, Actions of the AIF in Greece and Crete told by SG Savige 12 June 1941, 1941
A typed letter designed to be copied and circulated to members of Stan Savige's 'old mob' recounting events in Greece and Crete in 1941. Legatee Savige was deployed in Greece and this letter recounts the withdrawal of his company and those of Walker and Wrigley. He mentions Thermopylae, Kalamai, and evacuation via the ship Costa Rica, which was bombed by German planes and sunk. The name Aaron (or Adrian) Beattie is handwritten on the first page so perhaps it is his copy of the letter.A first hand account of the campaign in Greece during 1941, and an important link to Legatee Stan Savige, the founder of Legacy.Cream foolscap paper x 4 pages with black type transcription of a letter by Stan Savige in 1941.Handwritten in blue pen on centre top of first page "Aaron Beattie".stan savige, world war two, crete, greece -
Melbourne Legacy
Letter, Actions of the AIF in Greece and Crete told by SG Savige 1941, 1941
A typed letter designed to be copied and circulated to members of Stan Savige's 'old mob' recounting events in Greece and Crete in 1941. Legatee Savige was deployed in Greece and this letter recounts the withdrawal of his company and those of Walker and Wrigley. He mentions Thermopylae, Kalamai, and evacuation via the ship Costa Rica, which was bombed by German planes and sunk, which resulted in Walker's mob being lost. The cover letter is a copy from 1973 when Legatee Stan Poppins donated the letter to Ivan Layton, CEO of Legacy for the Archives.A first hand account of the campaign in Greece during 1941, and an important link to Legatee Stan Savige, the founder of Legacy.Cream foolscap paper x 4 pages with black type transcription of a letter by Stan Savige in 1941 and a cover letter written by Stan Poppins to Ivan Layton in 1973.Handwritten on top of cover letter 'Archives' showing it was intended to be donated to the archives.stan savige, world war two, crete, greece -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Certificate - Captain Kenneth Mortimer, D. W. Paterson Co. Pty. Ltd. Print, 1918
Kenneth Malcolm Mortimer was born in Leneva, Wodonga, Victoria on 9 October 1895. He attended school in Wangaratta before entering the Royal Military College, Duntroon in 1913. Along with the rest of his class, he graduated in June 1915. Mortimer was appointed as a Lieutenant with the 29th Battalion on 1 July 1915. He embarked with Headquarters Staff, 29th Battalion, from Melbourne aboard HMAT Ascanuis (A11) on 10 November 1915. Whilst training in Egypt in February 1916, he was promoted to Captain. He was in command of a company of the 29th Battalion at Fromelles, Armentieres, France in July 1916. and was reported missing, presumed killed in action on 20 July 1916, aged 20 years. Mortimer’s remains were buried along with those of hundreds of others in a mass grave near Pheasant Wood, close to the battlefield. This mass grave was rediscovered in 2008. After extensive research and DNA testing, the remains of Captain Mortimer were finally identified in April 2018. He was buried in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery at Fromelles and his grave rededicated on July 19, 2018, 102 years after his death. A memorial tablet was erected to his memory at St Luke’s Church in Wodonga. Honour Certificates WW1 - From 1915 onwards, recruits in many shires and towns in eastern Australia were honoured by local government authorities. A common form of recognition was the award of honour certificates. The first honour certificates were presented in 1915 and 1916 to men who had yet to leave Australia. The designers and publishing companies solicited business directly from councils. Publishers began to print two different types of certificates: honour certificates to thank soldiers who had survived and memorial certificates to commemorate the dead. D.W. Paterson, a Melbourne publishing firm, claimed they had supplied certificates to over 150 cities and shires in Victoria and New South Wales, including the Shire of Wodonga. Paterson also had the widest range of designs The certificate signified that the officials of the community recognised and shared the family's pride and grief. In the earliest designs, the legend "Australia's sons answered the call" appears below the shield. This was replaced with "For Liberty/ ANZACs/ For Justice". After the United States entered the war in April 1917, the design was reworked to include the US flag. Its presence in this certificate dates its publication as late 1917. The certificate was signed by S. T Parker, Shire President and R. H. Murphy, Council Secretary on 4th August 1918. Kenneth Malcolm Mortimer was born in Leneva, Wodonga and enlisted in the AIF after training at Duntroon. He fought and died at the Battle of Fromelles, France which was the first major engagement of the AIF on the Western Front. Along with hundreds of other Australian soldiers his remains were only identified in 2018, more than 100 years after the battle.Coloured certificate presented to the family of Captain K Mortimer by Wodonga Shire Council.29th battalion, mortimer, leneva, fromelles, aif, wodonga shire, honour certificates ww1 -
Melbourne Legacy
Document - Speech, Commemorative Address - Sir Stanley Savige K.B.E. Federal Conference of Legacy Clubs, Canberra, 10/1954
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 -
Melbourne Legacy
Photograph, Conference in Launceston 1940, 1940
The photo shows a group of Legatees who attended the 13th Annual Legacy Club Conference held in April 1940 in Launceston. The names are not known. The Legacy conference was held periodically, often annually, and allowed Legatees from across Australia to gather together. The aim of the annual conference was an exchange of ideas and methods of carrying out Legacy functions, and to form general policy for cooperation between clubs and groups. From TROVE. Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 - 1954), Monday 25 March 1940, page 6 'There are 20 clubs in Australia, and of these seven will be directly represented and another seven by proxy. Delegates from other clubs. Visitors from Melbourne, Sydney, Bendigo, Newcastle, Geelong, and Hobart, together with a strong representation from the Launceston Club will take part in the conference, which will open in the Anzac Hostel Hall on Saturday. Delegates and observers will arrive in Launceston this week to be present at the ceremony of presenting the Charter of Legacy to the Hobart Club on Wednesday evening. The organisation in Hobart has been functioning for many years as the Remembrance Club, but has now accepted the invitation of Legacy to join up, using as its new name "Remembrance Club (Hobart Legacy)." ' The man second from left on the front row is Frank Wittman, who was the smallest man to have enlisted in the 1st AIF and as such the shortest Legatee. Frank Clifford Wittman was only 4ft 4 inches tall (132 cms). From an article in the bulletin when his medals were sold. He served in both world wars.These men were some of the founders and early members of Legacy throughout Australia and had fought in the first World War. This conference was during the second World War. The 1940 Conference was when the Hobart Remembrance Club joined with Legacy.Black and white photo of a group of Legatees at the 1940 conference in Launceston.Hand-written on reverse: 'Legacy Club Conference / Launceston T. / March 30/1940' in navy ink. legatee event, conference