Showing 114 items
matching bravery awards
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Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Photograph - Ship Crew, 1889-1892
... . The Letter accompanying the Medal for Bravery awarded to Peter ...This black and white photograph shows the crew of the barque Newfield. They are pictured seated on a grassy slope and rock, a lifebuoy from the Newfield, Liverpool, resting on the men in the front row. The men are formally dressed, some with bowler hats, a bow tie and pipe, rather than in their sailing uniforms. ABOUT THE NEWFIELD The Newfield left Sharpness, Scotland, on 28th May 1892 with a crew of 25 under the command of Captain George Scott and on 1st June left Liverpool. She was bound for Brisbane, Australia, with a cargo of 1850 tons of fine rock salt, the main export product of Sharpness. At about 9pm on 28th August 1892, in heavy weather, Captain Scott sighted, between heavy squalls, the Cape Otway light on the mainland of Victoria but, due to a navigational error (the ship’s chronometers were wrong), he assumed it to be the Cape Wickham light on King Island, some 40 miles south. He altered his course to the north, expecting to enter Bass Strait. The ship was now heading straight for the south west Victorian coast. At about 1:30am the Newfield ran aground on a reef about 100 yards from shore and one mile east of Curdie’s Inlet, Peterborough. The ship struck heavily three times before grounding on an inner shoal with 6 feet of water in the holds. Rough sea made the job of launching lifeboats very difficult. The first two lifeboats launched by the crew were smashed against the side of the ship and some men were crushed or swept away. The third lifeboat brought eight men to shore. It capsized when the crew tried to return it to the ship for further rescue The rescue was a difficult operation. The Port Campbell Rocket Crew arrived and fired four rocket lines, none of which connected with the ship. Peter Carmody, a local man, volunteered to swim about one mile off shore to the ship with a line to guide the fourth and final lifeboat safely to shore. He was assisted by James McKenzie and Gerard Irvine. Seventeen men survived the shipwreck but the captain and eight of his crew perished. The Newfield remained upright on the reef with sails set for a considerable time as the wind slowly ripped the canvas to shreds and the sea battered the hull to pieces. The Marine Board inquiry found the wreck was caused by a "one man style of navigation" and that the Captain had not heeded the advice of his crew. According to Jack Loney ‘… when the drama was over . . the Newfield was deserted except for the Captain’s dog and two pigs.’ Peter Carmody was awarded the Bramley Moore medal by the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society for Saving Life at Ssea, which he received by mail on January 21st 1893. Flagstaff Hill’s collection of artefacts from the Newfield is significant for its association with the shipwreck Newfield, which is listed on the Victorian Heritage Registry. The collection is significant because of the relationship between the objects. The Newfield collection is archaeologically significant as the remains of an international cargo ship. The Newfield collection is historically significant for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and its association with the shipwreck. The Letter accompanying the Medal for Bravery awarded to Peter Carmody is significant because the attempt to save lives is associated with the shipwreck Newfield. Black and white photograph of the crew of the sailing ship “Newfield”. The men in formal dress are seated on rocky slope with the ship’s lifebuoy showing the name “NEWFIELD, LIVERPOOL”. Photograph taken 1889-1892 flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, newfield, photograph, crew of the newfield, 19th century sailing ship, peterborough, cape otway, medal for bravery -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Award - Medal, ca. 07-11-1856
The medal was presented to Captain Thos. Smith (Thomas Smith) for his assistance in saving the crew of the wrecked barque, the Eleanor Lancaster, at Newcastle in N.N.S.W. (New South Wales). The ship was wrecked during a storm on November 7th, 1856. This medal is significant as a form of recognition of the bravery of Captain Thos Smith.Medal; round, silver, with silver rope border, anchor and rope decoration on top and central inscription on the front, plain back. Black leather-covered case with blue velvet-covered insert and white silk-lined lid. The medal was hand engraved and later presented to Captain Thomas Smith."Presented to CAPT THOs SMITH As a public testimonial of his successful exertions in assisting to save the crew of the Barque ELEANOR LANCASTER during the storm of the 7th Novr" "NEWCASTLE" "N.S.W." "1856"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, medallion, shipwreck eleanor lancaster, captain thomas smith, shipwreck newcastle november 7th 1856, eleanor lancaster, newcastle, thos smith, storm, thomas smith, 7th november 1856, n.s.w. shipwreck, newcastle shipwreck, silver medal, hand engraved, life saving, australian award -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Award - Medal, Stokes, c 1882
This medal was presented by the Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners' Royal Benevolent Society and was posthumously awarded to Captain John Coffey’s family for his efforts at saving life at sea, in 1882. Captain Coffey lost his life in this attempt. The shipwreck occurred between Australia and England. The included letter was written by the donor, who is the grandson of John Coffey. It is interesting that the medal and note were packaged in a small tin whose original purpose was to present a wedding cake gift to guests. The container is decorated with wedding bells pressed into the lid. Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners’ Royal Benevolent Society: - The Shipwrecked Mariners (Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners’ Royal Benevolent Society) is a national charity established in 1839. It is run by a network of volunteers in the UK and Ireland. The organisation assists former mariners, their dependants and their families. John Rye and his servant Charles-Gee Jones, of Bath, UK, encouraged its formation after a severe storm caused the loss of life from the ‘Clovelly’ fishing fleet in November 1838. The Society was incorporated by an Act of Parliament in 1850. The Society’s flag is the St George’s Cross, a red cross on a white background and a gold crown in the centre, with the letters S F M S displayed, one in each quadrant. Nominations are made by members each year of those who have performed outstanding acts of bravery in helping those in peril in the sea. The inscription on the reverse "PRESENTED FOR HEROIC EXERTIONS IN SAVING LIFE FROM DROWNING / JOB XXIX 13" refers to a verse in the Bible, which in the King James version reads "The blessing of him that was ready to perish came upon me; and I caused the widow's eart to sing for joy."This is the only medal in our collection awarded from the Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners' Royal Benevolent Society. Medal, silver with blue ribbon. The obverse of the medal has images of the British flag, a crown flag with "S.F.", a portrait of a man, a shipwreck, a cannon and anchor, a man with a telescope, and two people attending a body on the shore. The reverse of the medal has text. The medal clasp depicts a fleur de lies between two fish. The medal maker is Stokes. The metal was donated in a tin container and included a letter. The medal was presented posthumously to the family of Captain John Coffey for his efforts at saving life at sea, in 1882. It has an accompanying letter and container.On rim "CAPTAIN JOHN COFFEY - 1882" Obverse "SHIPWRECKED FISHERMEN AND MARINERS ROYAL BENEVOLENT SOCIETY" and "ESTAB AD 1839 INCOd BY ACT OF PARLt 1850" Reverse "PRESENTED FOR HEROIC EXERTIONS IN SAVING LIFE FROM DROWNING / JOB XXIX 13" and "ENGLAND EXPECTS EVERY MAN WILL DO HIS DUTY" The tin box has "MEDAL" handwritten in black.flagstaff hill, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, great ocean road, shipwreck coast, medal, captain john coffey, john coffey, numismatics, hero, saving lives, shipwrecked fishermen and mariners’ royal benevolent society, sfms, shipwrecked mariners' society -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Award - Medal, James Patten, 18-041890
The Bronze Medal and Certificate of Merit of the Royal Humane Society of Australasia were awarded to James Patten for the bravery he displayed on 18th April 1890, and presented to him on 21st May 1890. The Royal Humane Society of Australasia was founded in 1874 with the aim to recognise those who risked their lives to save others and to assist those whose acts of bravery caused them or their surviving dependants to be disadvantaged in some way. Details of the incident were published in the Argus, Saturday 19 April 1890, page 11 - "FATAL BOATING ACCIDENT, (BY TELEGRAPH FROM OUR CORRESPONDENT.), WARRNAMBOOL, FRIDAY A fatal boating disaster occurred in Lady Bay this morning, the victim being Joseph Lowe, licensee of the Bay View Hotel, South Warrnambool. The deceased, in company with two lads named James Ferrier and James Patten, went out in a small dingy to shoot musk ducks. The water was perfectly smooth, and the party were tempted to proceed as far as the mouth of the Hopkins River. In their eagerness they neglected to keep clear of the breakers, and were presently carried in on the crest of a large wave, and the boat cap sized within a cable's length of the shore, precipitating the occupants into the water. Patten and Lowe stuck to the overturned boat, Ferrier striking out for the shore, which he reached in an exhausted state. In the meantime his companions had been washed off the boat, and were struggling in the breakers. Lowe was unable to swim, and Patten kept him afloat, at the same time making gallant attempts to get him ashore, but finally had to leave him to his fate. Ferrier, seeing Lowe's danger, undressed and swam out, but became exhausted. Ferrier and Patten were both found in a fainting condition by persons who saw the catastrophe from the jetty, and ran along the beach to render assistance. Attempts were subsequently made to rescue Lowe's body, which could be seen washing abort in the surf. These proved unsuccessful, and no hope is now entertained of recovering it. Lowe was a smart young man, 28 years of age, and unmarried. He was formerly bar-man at the Commercial Hotel here, having been engaged in Melbourne ..." This medal recognises the bravery of James Patten, a local citizen who risked his life to save the life of his friend Joseph Lowe whilst at sea and was recognised for this act by the Royal Humane Society of Australasia.Medal awarded to James Patten by the Royal Humane Society of Australasia for his bravery on18 April 1890 and presented to him on 21 May 1890. Bronze medal in hard black rectangular case. Lid and base have centre hinge and brass spring button catch. Case is padded and lined with blue silk and has a fitted hook. The round medal has a bronze bar with pin closure, dark blue, braided ribbon with brass swivel mount. The case has a gold embossed rectangular border on the lid and base. Embossed inscription on lid. The obverse shows a woman on the left in long robe placing a wreath on the head of a kneeling man at right, with the five stars of the Southern Cross constellation above his head. A motto is inscribed around the edge. The reverse has inscriptions around the edge, a wreath of two overlapping olive branches, and engraved text.OBVERSE: Embossed around "VIRTUTE PARATUM" REVERSE: Embossed on the medal around the edge "ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY OF AUSTRALASIA INSTD. A.D. 1874", in the centre "AWARDED TO" Engraved in the centre "James Patten/ 18th April / 1890" CASE LID: "PRESENTED BY / THE ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY / OF AUSTRALASIA / TO / JAS. PATTEN. / 21ST MAY 1890."flagstaff hill, warrnambool, flagstaff-hill, maritime museum, maritime village, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum & village, bronze medal 1890, royal humane society of australasia, james patten, medal, australian award medal, commemorative medal, numismatics, life saving, lifesaving, rescue, bravery, drowning, joseph lowe, james ferrier, lady bay, hopkins river, boating accident, certificate of merit, north eastern bight -
Federation University Historical Collection
Photograph (black & White), General Sir Redvers Buller V.C. - South Africa
General Sir Redvers Henry Buller served in South Africa during the 9th Cape Frontier War in 1878 and the Anglo-Zulu War in 1879. In the Zulu War he commanded the mounted infantry under Sir Evelyn Wood. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery under fire at the Battle of Hlobane. He served in the First Boer War and was Commander-in-Chief of British Forces in South Africa during the Second Boer War. Other awards he received were Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath and Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George. He also received the Honorary Freedom of the Borough of Plymouth in 1901.Individual image from photographed poster of tobacco and cigarette cardsredvers henry buller, general, south africa, 9th cape frontier war, anglo-zulu war, victoria cross, battle of hlobane, first boer war, commander-in-chief, second boer war, knight grand cross of the order of st michael and st george, knight grand cross of the order of the bath, plymouth -
City of Moorabbin Historical Society (Operating the Box Cottage Museum)
Book, Victorian Government, Victoria's World War One Legacy : Recipients of the Victoria Cross : ANZAC centenary, 2014-2018 sharing Victoria's stories & making connections, 2014
... for bravery in wartime, and now Australia’s pre-eminent award ...The following 26 stories are about outstanding valour on the battlefields of the Great War. They tell the story of men who were recipients of the Victoria Cross, the British Empire’s highest award for bravery in wartime, and now Australia’s pre-eminent award for conspicuous gallantry in combat. Inside cover.31 pages : portraits Includes bibliographical references.non-fictionThe following 26 stories are about outstanding valour on the battlefields of the Great War. They tell the story of men who were recipients of the Victoria Cross, the British Empire’s highest award for bravery in wartime, and now Australia’s pre-eminent award for conspicuous gallantry in combat. Inside cover.australian army, soldiers, world war one, victoria cross, military decorations -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Photograph - William Ferrier, Henna Street Picture Framers, 2005
The photograph of William Ferrier was given to Avis Quarrell by Lewis Ferrier, 3rd youngest son of William during the centenary of the wreck of the La Bella. The photograph was framed by the Henna Street Picture Framers, Warrnambool in 2005. The photograph is of William Ferrier, the 25-year-old fisherman from South Warrnambool, whose rescue of two sailors from the wrecked La Bella made him an overnight national hero. The La Bella was wrecked on 10th November 1905,and the remains of the vessel now lie on her port side in 13 metres of sheltered water inside the reef she struck. The bow section is relatively intact and part of the stern has drifted north-easterly towards the mouth of the Hopkins River. The reef the La Bella struck now bears its name. Several attempts were made by the Warrnambool lifeboat crew to rescue the stricken sailors on the La Bella, but the rough conditions made this difficult for the boat to get close enough to the ship and the lifeboat had to return to shore. A another rescue attempt was made by Ferrier who rowed a small dingy through the heavy seas and managed to rescue the Captain George Mylius, whom he landed on the breakwater. Ferrier then returned to the ship to attempt a final rescue, losing his oars and rowlocks into the high sea. Using just a spare paddle he swam towards the La Bella, reaching her stern in time to cut loose the lone surviving sailor, Payne, from the ropes and debris that held him to the ship; the terrified sailor dropped from the ship and into the dingy. Shortly after the last man was rescued, the La Bella was lifted by a huge wave and crashed back down on the reef; she broke up and sank. The survivors were taken to the nearby Bay View Hotel and gratefully received warm food and clothing, medical attention and a place to sleep. William Ferrier became a national hero as news of the daring rescue spread. In recognition of his bravery in the two daring rescues, he was awarded the Silver Medal for Bravery by the Royal Humane Society and was honoured in the letter from the Prime Minister and the Parliament of the Commonwealth, telegrams and a cheque for £20 from the Governor-General, over £150 subscribed by the public, including Warrnambool and district and readers of The Argus, and a gold medal from the Glenelg Dinghy Club of South Australia. Ferrier’s rescue efforts are one of the most heroic in Victoria’s shipwreck history.This photograph is significant at both a local and state level. Its connection to the La Bella shipwreck and the rescue of survivors highlights the dangers of Victoria’s Shipwreck Coast and demonstrates the bravery of ordinary Australians like William Ferrier who risked their lives to save victims of shipwrecks along the coast. Moreover, the photograph has an association with the sailing ship ‘La Bella’, as it is one of the only two shipwrecks discovered in Lady Bay, Warrnambool, out of the 15-17 shipwrecks known to have been wrecked in the bay.Framed sepia photograph, mounted behind glass. Portrait of a man seated on a log. He is wearing a brimmed hat, dark coloured jacket and trousers, and a light coloured collarless shirt with buttons. The figure in the photograph is William Ferrier.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, la bella, william ferrier, rescue, hero william ferrier -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Poster - Poster, Information Board, 5 RAR 1966 - 1967 (1st Tour)
An Poster, Information Board of 5 RAR 1966 to 1967 (tst Tour). The 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment ("Battalion") were the leading element of the First Australian Task Force (1 ATF) and stationed in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967. The Battalion's task was to break Viet Cong control over the central region of Phuoc Tuy Province - an area that communists had freely operated in since 1945. Commencing of the 24th May 1966, the Battalion conducted its first operation codenamed "Hardihood". Their objective was to sweep and clear areas to the north and east of Nui Dat to a distance of 5000 meters, then create a defensive position to enable 1 ATF to establish an operation base. The Battalion conducted eighteen full-lenght operations as well as numerous day and night cordon and search, search and destroy, ambush and clearing patrols conducted at company, platoon and section levels. the Battalion achieved considerable success during Operations Canberra and Queanbeyan in October 1966 when it swept and cleared the Nui Thi Vai mountain. A Viet Cong base consisting of training facilities, a hospital, booby trap factory and several tonnes of rice was located and destroyed. during phase two (Operation Queanbeyan) the battalion discovered complex cave and tunnel systems along with other fixed installations that were vigorously fought for and destroyed by the battalion. Not only di the caves contain large quantities of weapons, equipment and documents but the 274 VC Regiments deputy commanders radio complex. For bravery and leadership, three Military Crosses, one Military Medal and one Mentioned in Dispatches were awarded. The last was awarded posthumously. However, at the completion of the battalion's first tour, the 274 and 275 Viet Cong Regiments remained functional. While the enemy retained the capacity to inflict serious casualities on smaller allied forces, the Battalion and other elements of the 1 AFt were successful in denying the enemy their previous gains. This enabled the South Vietnamese Government to re-establish control of over 96 per cent of the Phuoc Tuy Province during Australia's involvement. Source O'Neill, RJ Vietnam Task, the 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment 1966/67, Melbourne. Cassell Australia Ltd, 19685 rar, 1st tour 1966 - 1967, operation hardihood, 1st atf base, poster, information board, nui dat, nui thai vai mountains, operation canberra, operation queanbeyan, viet cong, 274 vc regiments -
Port Melbourne Historical & Preservation Society
Document - Military record, Private George Williams, WWI, Australian Archives
George's medals were kept by his daughter Marjorie Williams, and donated to the Society by herself and her daughter. These documents were obtained when PMH&PS applied to Canberra for information on the MM citation.Australian Archives folder containing WWI personnel records for Private George Williams of 1st Australian Imperial Forces, who was awarded the Military Medal 'For bravery in the field' Ref 813.01 for medals mounted with photo..Cream and brown, contains 48 pages including letter, notes, official sheets and photocopies of letters, war and medical recordswar - world war i, armed services - army, valerie williams morris, marjorie williams, george willaims -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Gerald Gliddon, VCs of the First World War: road to victory 1918, 2000
... Zealand: some never lived to know that they had been awarded ...By August 1918 fortune was on the side of the Allies: America was increasing its contribution of troops and equipment substantially; the morale of the German Army was sinking as it failed to deliver the desired 'knock out blow'; and Haig found a new confidence, firmly believing that the Allies could at last push the Germans out of France and Belgium. This volume of the best-selling 'VCs of the First World War' series covers the fifty days of the Allied advance from 8 August to 26 September 1918. Arranged chronologically, it tells the story of the 64 VC winners during this period. The recipients came from any countries including Britain, Canada, Australia and New Zealand: some never lived to know that they had been awarded to their extraordinary bravery, while others returned home to face an uncertain future. This is their story.index, bibliography, ill, maps, p.210non-fictionBy August 1918 fortune was on the side of the Allies: America was increasing its contribution of troops and equipment substantially; the morale of the German Army was sinking as it failed to deliver the desired 'knock out blow'; and Haig found a new confidence, firmly believing that the Allies could at last push the Germans out of France and Belgium. This volume of the best-selling 'VCs of the First World War' series covers the fifty days of the Allied advance from 8 August to 26 September 1918. Arranged chronologically, it tells the story of the 64 VC winners during this period. The recipients came from any countries including Britain, Canada, Australia and New Zealand: some never lived to know that they had been awarded to their extraordinary bravery, while others returned home to face an uncertain future. This is their story.world war 1914-1918 - personal narratives, world war 1914-1918 - victoria cross -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, ABC Books for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Payne VC : the story of Australia's most decorated soldier of the Vietnam War, 2009
The dramatic story of an Australian soldier who was awarded the VC for his extraordinary bravery in Vietnam, only to return home to spend years struggling with depression, alcohol and prescription drugs, before turning his life aroundIndex, ill, p.244.non-fictionThe dramatic story of an Australian soldier who was awarded the VC for his extraordinary bravery in Vietnam, only to return home to spend years struggling with depression, alcohol and prescription drugs, before turning his life aroundvietnam conflict - australian involvement, vietnam conflict 1961-1975 - personal recollections -
Myrtleford and District Historical Society
Portrait of V.C. Soldier, A.D. Lowerson V.C
The portrait depicts Sgt. A.D. Lowerson V.C. after receipt of his award at Buckingham Palace on March 1, 1919. It links the town and the Lowerson family to events in World War 1. A.D. Lowerson was awarded the Victoria Cross as the result of bravery and leadership in the capture of Mont St. Quentin on September 1, 1918, particularly for his bombing of a German strongpoint. He refused to leave his post, despite wounds, for two days. He is the only winner of the V.C. in north east Victoria, beyond Euroa. Lowerson's name has been memorialized in a street name, the local swimming pool and Soldiers Memorial Square and with others on church and state school honour boards. Monochrome portrait of Sergeant Albert David Lowerson, Victoria Cross (1896-1945), standing, in gold frame.a.d. lowerson, v.c. mont st. quentin -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Booklet, Australian Victoria Cross Recipients from Vietnam
A folder of Photograph and histories of soldiers awarded the Victoria Cross for Bravery in Vietnamvictoria cross, photograph, history -- military -- vietnam war -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book - Too Bold To Die: The Making of Australian War Heroes, McPhedran, Ian, 2013
... Newhaven phillip-island-and-the-bass-coast Bravery Medals Heroes ...Award-winning journalist and bestselling author Ian McPhedran uncovers compelling stories of extreme bravery in action from WW2 to today.non-fictionAward-winning journalist and bestselling author Ian McPhedran uncovers compelling stories of extreme bravery in action from WW2 to today.bravery, medals, heroes -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Medal - Framed Photograph and Medals, L.Cpl. Harold Prest M.M
... A.I.F Awarded Military Medal for Bravery Ypres, Belgium 4th.... Battalion A.I.F Enlisted 24th March 1916 Awarded Military Medal... A.I.F Awarded Military Medal for Bravery Ypres, Belgium 4th ...Photograph of L.Cpl. Harold Pearson Prest M.M. Service Number: 1334 Enlisted Wangaratta 24/3/1916 Embarked on 3/6/1916 on board "Persic" Returned on 20/12/1917 37th. Battalion A.I.F Awarded Military Medal for Bravery Ypres, Belgium 4th of October 1917 Harold's brother George PREST 1333 served with the 38th Battalion Brown timber frame with maroon felt mount containing photograph,three medals with ribbons and metal plaqueL.Cpl. Harold P. Prest M.M. Service Number: 1334 37th. Battalion A.I.F Enlisted 24th March 1916 Awarded Military Medal for Bravery Ypres, Belguim 4th of October 1917 harold prest, 37th battalion aif, ww1, military medal -
City of Ballarat
Artwork, other - Public Artwork, William Dunstan VC Memorial, 1995
The Dunstan Memorial is a minimal form of rough-cut bluestone and sheet granite in memory of Ballarat born soldier, William Dunstan, who served with honour in Gallipoli, WWI. His unit successfully defended a post despite being seriously wounded. He and one mate were the only survivors of the 10 men defending the trench and all were awarded the Victoria Cross. Following the war Dunstan worked as manager and director of the Herald and Weekly Times.The memorial is of historical significance to the people BallaratThis is a minimal form of rough-cut bluestone and sheet granite in memory of Ballarat born soldier who served with honor in Gallipoli. His unit successfully defended a post despite being seriously wounded. He and one mate were the only survivors of the 10 men defending the trench and all were awarded the Victoria Cross. In honour of William Dunstan, VC 1895-1957. William Dunstan was born in Ballarat East and educated at Golden Point State School. Shortly after the outbreak of the First World War, 19 year old Dunstan enlisted in the 7th Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 1st Division of the Australian Imperial Forces. Within 3 weeks he was posted to Gallipoli and was immediately embroiled in the Battle of Lone Pine. Early on the morning of 9th August, 1915, Dunstan and 10 other men were defending a trench captured from the Turks. The enemy launched repeated counter attacks and suffered heavy casualties. Only 3 surviving Australians remained and were rebuilding the blown-up barricade of sandbags when the Turks launched a final vicious assault to regain the trench. Struggling to defend their position, the three Australians resorted to catching the Turkish hand bombs and throwing them back at the enemy or smothering those that landed with Turkish great-coats. Hand bombs killed a 10th defender and wounded both Dunstan and his only remaining companion. Again the Turks were driven back and this time the two wounded Australians were left alone until later relieved and hospitalised. As a result of the intensity of the fighting and the tenacity of the 3 defenders, each was awarded Victoria Crosses for their most conspicuous bravery. Following the war, Dunstan enjoyed a successful career to become the Managing Director of the Herald and Weekly Times. He died in Melbourne aged 62 and is remembered with respect by the citizens of Ballarat.first world war, wwi, william dunstan, conflict, war -
City of Ballarat
Artwork, other - Public Artwork, George Treloar Memorial by Lis Johnson, 2019
This depiction of Major George Devine Treloar (1884-1980) by artist Lis Johnson was commissioned by the George Devine Treloar Memorial Committee an initiative of Merimna Kynon of Oceania, Central Portian Pontion Association of Melbourne and Victoria Pontiaki Estiaâ and the City of Ballarat. Treloar was appointed as the League of Nations Commissioner for Refugees in Greece in 1922 where he worked to provide food, aid and comfort to what would eventually total over 100,000 refugees from the collapsing Ottoman Empire. This memorial grew from the desire of the descendants of refugees to honour his memory and his humanitarian work. Bronze statue of George Treloar and a child on granite plinthFront: Major George Devine Treloar (Born Ballarat 1884 - Died Dalkeith 1980) Artist: Lis Johnson Commissioned by the George Devine Treloar Memorial Committee an initiative of Merimna Kynon of Oceania, Central Portian Pontion Association of Melbourne and Victoria ‘Pontiaki Estia’ and the City of Ballarat. Unveiled by Ballarat Mayor Councillor Samantha McIntosh on 8 September 2019 His glory lies not in the earth, but in the hearts of men (After Thucydides, 460-395 BCE) Back: Ballarat’s George Devine Treloar – Soldier and Refugee Helper Born in 1884, George Devine Treloar the son of Jane and Thomas Treloar, grew up in Ballarat attending St Patrick’s College. Treloar began his military career by joining the British Army during WWI and transferred to the elite Coldstream Guards where his bravery earnt him the Distinguished Service Order and Military Cross. Treloar was appointed as the League of Nations Commissioner for Refugees in Greece in 1922 where he worked tirelessly – with his wife and family – to provide food, aid and comfort to what would eventually total over 100,000 refugees from the collapsing Ottoman Empire. Based in the town of Komotini and then Thessaloniki, he created new villages to accommodate refugees. For his efforts Treloar would earn the praises of those he had helped. One of the new towns he had helped create was named in his honor – Thrylorion. He was awarded the Greek Gold Cross of the Order of the Redeemer in 1923. This memorial grew from the desire of the descendants of refugees assisted by Major George Devine Treloar in Greece to honor his memory. Without his help their ancestors would not have survived, making their way from across the former Ottoman Empire, from Pontus and Asia Minor to Australia. Here in the town of his birth stands his memorial, dedicated to his memory and good works, created by the people of Ballarat and the descendants of the refugees he saved.treloar, george devine, refugee, asia minor -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Work on paper - Coat of Arms, Rats of Tobruk 1941, 1941
Hand drawn Coat of Arms for the soldiers known as the Rats of Tobruk with signatures of those involved in the engagement between 5th April to the 22nd of October 1941 The drawing is signed by artist John DOWIE AM, SX6087 who served with the 2/43rd Battalion Signatories are: VX42389 Eric Hamilton, 2/32 Battalion; VX30189 F.Baldwin, 2/23 Battalion; VX34544, F.J.Mc.Intosh 2/24 Battalion; VX34554 W.Harrison, 2/24 Battalion; WX7281 P.Bone 2/25 Battalion; VX33719 Duke Goldsmith, 2/24 Battalion; VX41179 Harry Frazer, 2/24 Battalion; VX29652 A.R.Stribley, 2/24 Battalion; SX6367 Jack Foley, 2/43 Battalion; VX48340 Harry Jones, 2/23 Battalion; VX42317 Aub Jarrott, 2/24Battalion; VX28869 Rod Deering 2/24Battalion; VX15719 Ian F. Joss 7th Division AASC; VX19723 Len Dauria, 2/12 Field Regiment; NX35852 R.E (Snowy) Cornelius 2/13 Battalion; VX32559 Jim Gray, 2/24Battalion - James Cyril GRAY Born 6/1/1916 in Orroroo South Australia. Enlisted 28/5/1940 at Mildura. Awarded Military Medal for remarkable coolness, bravery and leadership at Tobruk on 24/4 and 1/5/1941. He was promoted to Sergeant on 14/8/1941, Lieutenant in November 1942 then Captain on 9/4/1945. He was wounded in action on 11/9/1943 and discharged on 20/12/1945. He married and had three children. He died on 10/4/1992 aged 76 and buried at Wangaratta Cemetery.This original drawing is by John DOWIE SX6087 who served with the 2/43rd Battalion during the second world war and is signed by the artist and soldiers from the 2/24th Battalion known as "Wangaratta's Own". John Stuart Dowie AM (15 January 1915 – 19 March 2008) was an Australian painter, sculptor and teacher. He was born in the suburb of Prospect in Adelaide, South Australia, and studied architecture at the University of Adelaide. During World War II, Dowie worked in the Military History Unit of the Australian Imperial Force, and as an assistant to Australia's official war sculptor, Lyndon Dadswell. As a soldier, he was one of the Rats of Tobruk. After studying art in London and Florence, Dowie returned to Australia. His work includes over 50 public sculpture commissions, including the "Three Rivers" fountain in Victoria Square, "Alice" in Rymill Park, the "Victor Richardson Gates" at Adelaide Oval and the "Sir Ross & Sir Keith Smith Memorial" at Adelaide Airport. He was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 1981 in recognition of service to the arts as a sculptor and painter. Dowie died on 19 March 2008, aged 93. There is a similiar version of the drawing on page 32 of the book Desert Sand and Jungle Green by Geoffrey Boss-Walker which is an illustrated history of the 2/43rd Battalion.Timber frame containing hand drawn Coat of Arms consisting of "rats" as shield supporters, crest with a swastika in the centre and motto surrounded by signatures.Signatures of artist John Dowie and soldiers engaged at Tobruk. The crest depicts a latrine and the motto reads NON FASCES SED FAECES (Latin translation - "Do not move but the dregs") rats of tobruk, coat of arms, 1941, john dowie -
Wangaratta RSL Sub Branch
Medal - Medal and plaque, H P Prest MM
Original Military Medal awarded to Harold Pearson PREST Lance Corporal 1334 - 37th Australian Infantry Battalion On the 4th October 1917 East of Ypres, Belgium for conspicuous gallantry in action - After locating an enemy machine gun which was holding up the left flank, he single handed rushed the position from a flank and bombed and killed the crew of two men and captured the gun. His promptness and courage not only saved many casualties but enabled the advance to continue.The Military Medal (MM) was a military decoration awarded to personnel of the British Army and other arms of the armed forces, and to personnel of other Commonwealth countries, below commissioned rank, for bravery in battle on land. The award was established in 1916, with retrospective application to 1914, and was awarded to other ranks for "acts of gallantry and devotion to duty under fire"Blue velvet case with satin lining containing round metal medal with attached blue red and white striped ribbon and gold coloured plastic plaquePlaque -Military Medal awarded to 1334 Lance Corporal H P Prest 37/AUST INF For Bravery in the Fieldh p prest, ww1, mm, 37th infantry battalion -
Chiltern Athenaeum Trust
Photograph
Photo of Bluey Truscott. Squadron Leader Keith William (Bluey) Truscott was regarded as one of Australia’s most well known WW2 fighter pilot aces. He was born on the 17/5/1916 and died over Exmouth, Western Australia on 28/3/1943 in an Aircraft accident whilst on duty. He initially trained under the Commonwealth Empire Training Scheme In Canada at the beginning of WW2, and later on was posted to Number 452 Squadron England where he flew Spitfires over Europe. He was awarded the distinguished Flying Cross in 1941 for his Air action and bravery. In 1942 he was further awarded the DFC Bar for further outstanding Air action and bravery. He returned to Australia and commanded number 76 Squadron who undertook duties in Papua New Guinea, specifically Milne Bay. When with 76 Squadron they largely flew Kittyhawks. There is a club named after SQN LDR Truscott, called the Truscott Club, at Airforce Base Darwin. There is also a decommissioned WW2 Airfield in the Kimberley’s called after him ( Truscott Air Base). Truscott has more recently been called Mungalu-Truscott Air Base as it is now owned by the traditional people of the Wunambal Gaambera. The Airfield is now used for commercial and private flying and is heritage listed under the National Trust of Australia (W.A.) due to its historical significance relating to WW2 and the remaining artefacts that are still in place presently. Bluey Truscott was also a well known Australian Rules Football player prior to WW2 having played for Melbourne. Photograph of Keith William (Bluey) Truscott in uniform.ww2, bluey truscott, flying cross -
Chiltern Athenaeum Trust
Medal
Military Medal awarded to Adde Andress Matiess John Cooper for Bravery in the Field, in WW1 Adde Cooper was born & lived in Chiltern. He served in WW1 & WW2Silver Medal attached to a navy, white & red ribbonBravery in the Field Laurel Wreath 5002 PTE A.A.M.J. COOPER 217: AUST: INF chiltern, adde andress matiess john cooper, ww1 -
Chiltern Athenaeum Trust
Photograph of Mr. Adde Andress Matiess COOPER in uniform, WW1 Soldier and Military Medal recipient
Mr. Adde Andress Matiess John COOPER was a WW1 soldier from Chiltern and served with the 21st Battalion. He enlisted in 1916 at 21 years of age. He had previous experience pre WW1 in the local based Militia Unit at Chiltern. He was awarded the Military Medal for Bravery in the Field whilst in France on the 3/4/1917. He was wounded in France with a gun shot wound to the upper left arm. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Cooper. He then went on to serve after WW1 with the local based Militia unit (44BN) and was appointed as the Officer in Charge at the rank of Captain. His employment prior to WW1 was that of a Sleeper Cutter for the railway. Black and white photograph of WW1 Soldier in uniform, being Adde Cooper Service Number 5002, Chiltern Resident. attached to the back of the photograph is a piece of paper with the description - Mr. Adde Cooper 1st World War Later Captain Chiltern Branch Victorian Defence Corps. ww1, military medal, adde cooper -
Dandenong/Cranbourne RSL Sub Branch
Memorabilia - German Iron Cross 2nd Class, Circa 1940's
Awarded to German military personnel in WW2 for a first instance of bravery in combat.Silver and black Maltese Cross shaped medal with a red, black and white ribbon attached by a metal ring.1813 on reverse side and swastika above 1939 on the obverse side.world war 2, germany, bravery -
Ballarat Heritage Services
Photograph - Colour, Pikeman's Dog Statue by Charles Smith and Joan Walsh-Smith, 21/05/2017
A sculpture unveiled on December 3rd 1999, the Anniversary of the Eureka Stockade Rebellion, in Ballarat, Victoria commemorates the Pikeman's Dog . The centerpiece of the sculpture is the bronze Irish Terrier. His stance, is a direct expression of his forlorn anguish, as he sits at the base of a symbolic bronze Pike, his head turned towards the place where once his master stood. The Pikeman's Dog statue was relocated from inside the Eureka Centre to a more prominent position within the Eureka Stockade Memorial Park. The new memorial was unveiled at a ceremony on December 3, 2014 - the 160th anniversary of the Eureka Stockade. The new memorial consists of 22 large golden stockade posts – representing the number of diggers killed in battle – erected in a triangle behind the statue of Wee Jock, on high ground outside the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka. The triangular shape of the monument is metaphorically symbolic. The V shape can be interpreted as symbolising victory, and the 22 golden posts represent the 22 diggers who were killed. The Pikeman`s Dog (known as Wee Jock), a little terrier, showed great devotion and bravery at the death of his master at the Eureka Stockade on 3 December 1854. As a result of the attack on the miners by Crown forces, five British soldiers and some thirty miners died. Among the miners lay a Pikeman, mortally wounded with some 15 wounds. Guarding his body throughout the hours it lay unclaimed at the battlefield, and later accompanying it on the death cart as the remaining bodies were transferred to the cemetery, was this small dog. According to reports the dog howled continuously and could not be separated from his master. The dog was awarded the RSPCA`s Purple Cross which Honours exceptional behaviour in serving humans in 1997.Colour photographs of the Pikeman's Dog statue in the Eureka Stockade Memorial Gardens. pikeman's dog, eureka stockade, statue, charles smith, joan walsh-smith -
Dandenong/Cranbourne RSL Sub Branch
Medal, Military Merit Medal (Austria - Hungary)
The Military Merit Medal was founded by Emperor Franz Joseph 1st on March 12 1890. The Medal was awarded in both peacetime for meritorious service and in wartime for outstanding acts. ( Including bravery or military merit).Historic Significance.Bronze, Silver or Gold Medal with bust of the reigning Emperor on the obverse side. The words "SIGNUM LAUDIS" (Latin for "Sign of Praise") on the reverse. It is surrounded by a wreath of half - laurels and half- oak leaves. The medal is surmounted by a dual crowns "Karl 1st type" and worn from a tri-fold ribbon. On the ribbon there are two crossed swords. -
Kyneton RSL Sub Branch
artefact, VC Medal
... awarded for “... most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre... military decoration awarded for “... most conspicuous bravery ...The Victoria Cross is the highest military decoration awarded for “... most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre -eminent act of valour or self sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy” to members of the armed forces of Commonwealth countries. This item is part of a collection of items relating to Cpl Alexander Burton.VC No 384Two items Medal on wooden display stand, Medal hangs on red ribbon with the words: The Victoria Cross; on label at base. Information board gives details of the history of the Victoria Cross. The medal is a replica.Front: For Valour Back: COPYvc -
Bayside Gallery - Bayside City Council Art & Heritage Collection
Photograph - gelatin silver photograph, Councillor J.W. Satchwell, Mayor of Brighton 1922, c. 1922
John William Satchwell (1853-1935), was a representative of the East Ward in Brighton Council for more than 20 years and was elected Mayor in 1922-23. Satchwell joined the police force as a mounted trooper in 1878 and was awarded valour badge in 1889 for bravery in rescuing drowning people from floods in Newstead. He retired as a sub-inspector after 35 years in the force. councillor, local government, municipality, mayor, portrait, mayoral robes, cr. j.w. satchwell, john william satchwell, mayor of brighton, police, trooper -
Bendigo Historical Society Inc.
Award - ILLUMINATED ADDESS: JAMES TONKIN, 1895
Illuminated Address preented to James Tonkin recognizing bravery when he descended into a mine three times to rescue Owen R Owen who had fallen down a mine shaft at the Collmann and Tacchi Mine in 1895. -
Kew Historical Society Inc
Plan, Borough of Kew Detail Plan No.1577, 1904
The Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works (MMBW) plans were produced from the 1890s to the 1950s. They were crucial to the design and development of Melbourne's sewerage and drainage system. The plans, at a scale of 40 feet to 1 inch (1:480), provide a detailed historical record of Melbourne streetscapes and environmental features. Each plan covers one or two street blocks (roughly six streets), showing details of buildings, including garden layouts and ownership boundaries, and features such as laneways, drains, bridges, parks, municipal boundaries and other prominent landmarks as they existed at the time each plan was produced. (Source: State Library of Victoria)This plan forms part of a large group of MMBW plans and maps that was donated to the Society by the Mr Poulter, City Engineer of the City of Kew in 1989. Within this collection, thirty-five hand-coloured plans, backed with linen, are of statewide significance as they include annotations that provide details of construction materials used in buildings in the first decade of the 20th century as well as additional information about land ownership and usage. The copies in the Public Record Office Victoria and the State Library of Victoria are monochrome versions which do not denote building materials so that the maps in this collection are invaluable and unique tools for researchers and heritage consultants. A number of the plans are not held in the collection of the State Library of Victoria so they have the additional attribute of rarity.Original survey plan, issued by the MMBW to a contractor with responsibility for constructing sewers in the area identified on the plan within the Borough of Kew. The plan was at some stage hand-coloured, possibly by the contractor, but more likely by officers working in the Engineering Department of the Borough and later Town, then City of Kew. The hand-coloured sections of buildings on the plan were used to denote masonry or brick constructions (pink), weatherboard constructions (yellow), and public buildings (grey). MMBW Plan No.1577 includes some of the most significant houses in Kew: Herbert Henty’s ‘Roxeth’ (now part of Trinity Grammar), ‘Butleigh Wooton’, ‘Bokara’ and ‘Harrow’. It also includes the streets that have since changed their names. That part of College Parade linked to Glenferrie Road is now named College Place, College Parade now extends further north, and Charles Street did not yet reach Barkers Road. Roxeth is one of a number of Henty houses in Kew. Herbert Henty made his home here and was elected a member of Kew Municipal Council in 1864 and mayor in 1868-69. Walter Henry Serle, of Harrow served in the First World War. He was awarded the Military Medal ‘’For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. On 29th September near BELLICOURT he showed the greatest bravery and determination when his platoon was attacked by enemy bombing parties. It was due largely to his personal efforts that all the attacks were repulsed. Until wounded, his utter disregard of personal safety and boldness in dealing with the attacks were the means of saving the situation and were an inspiring example to his men.’melbourne and metropolitan board of works, detail plans, maps - borough of kew, mmbw 1577, cartography -
Bacchus Marsh & District Historical Society
Medal, Royal Humane Society of Australasia Medal Awarded to Thomas Kennedy 3rd August 1891
Thomas Kennedy aged 14 was awarded this medal in 1892 for the bravery he showed in rescuing members of his family from the flooded Werribee River on the 3rd August 1891. The Bacchus Marsh Express newspaper on for 30 July 1892, page 2, reported the awards ceremony with this description, 'Bronze medals of the Royal Humane Society of Australasia were awarded at the Melbourne Town Hall on Monday evening as follows: Thomas Kennedy, of Maddingley, near Bacchus Marsh, aged 14 years, for the risk he incurred in procuring assistance to rescue his father, mother, four brothers and sisters from being drowned during the flood of the Werribee River, on the 3rd August, 1891. He at daybreak swam across a strong current, and procured a boat, then rode a horse attached by a chain to the boat, and was returning thus to the house when he was washed off the horse, and with much difficulty rescued'. Bronze medal with ribbon.Obverse: Virtute Paratum; Reverse: Awarded to Thomas Kennedy 3rd Aug 1891, Royal Humane Society of Australasia, INSTD. A.D. 1874medals, awards, floods 1891