Alexander Ross was born in Castlemaine in 1879. He became a member of the 4th Battalion Infantry Brigade and was noted for his soldierly qualities. When volunteers were called for the First Contingent, Mounted Infantry Unit going to South Africa, he was one of the first to enlist. In the Battle at Rensburg he was shot through the chest and died shortly after. Major Eddy and Lieutenant Roberts also died in the same action. About a fortnight before he was killed Corporal Ross had mailed the Queen's Chocolate Box he had received, to his father. In it was a letter which included information "...I am quite well and have not seen action yet. I remain Your affectionate son Alexander Ross"Digital portrait from "In Memory of the Gallant Officers and Men of Victoria in Transvaal War, 1899-1900".alexander ross, corporal, castlemaine, 4th battalion infantry brigade, first contingent, mounted infantry unit, south africa, rensburg, major eddy, lieutenant roberts, queen's chocolate box

Sergeant Neil Grant died from bullet wounds in the chest during the battle in Rensburg on 10 February 1900. Private Willson, quick to go to his aid, was killed instantly as he bent over the wounded man. He was well known in Ballarat for his military career and also as an auctioneer. He was 45 years of age, married and father of eight children. Other soldiers from Ballarat who were killed are Corporal Ross, Private Duncan Stock and Private Thomas Stock.Digital portrait from "In Memory of the Gallant Officers and Men of Victoria in Transvaal War, 1899-1900".sergeant neil grant, rensburg, private willson, ballarat, corporal ross, private duncan stock, private thomas stock